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Updated: October 18, 2021
In order to prevent the spread of coronavirus (COVID-19), various facilities around Tokyo may change their operating days or hours. In addition, some events may be canceled or postponed. Please check official facility or event websites for the latest updates and information.
Yes! As the year comes to an end, locations across Tokyo are decorated with lights, in a series of inspiring and impressive illumination displays. Many of these light-up events use cutting-edge technology such as projection mapping to enhance the experience, creating a magical winter atmosphere. Christmas decorations are installed across the city, but the most important day of the month is December 31, when Tokyo concludes its month-long celebration by welcoming the new year.
The average temperature is around 7.7ºC (46°F) during the day, and 3.8ºC (39°F) at night. It's not as cold as January or February, especially in early December—but it is chilly, so make sure to wear a coat. Gloves, scarves, and hats aren't always necessary, but from mid-December it's a good idea to bring them along. The month is dry, with 58 mm (2.3 in) of rainfall on average, and only a small chance of snow.
Light displays are held all around the city, at retail hubs, landmarks, and festivals. The trees along Marunouchi's main shopping street are lit up in a signature color: champagne gold. The light displays around Tokyo Station, Omotesando, and Roppongi Hills are also worth visiting. A short trip from central Tokyo is the amusement park Yomiuriland, which puts up a popular gemstone-themed light display.
If you're shopping for presents or souvenirs, try one of Tokyo's Christmas markets. Many offer seasonal treats such as mulled wine, as well as performances and concerts. The market in Hibiya has a 14-meter tall "Christmas Pyramid" imported from Germany, while the market in Yebisu Garden Place has a gigantic Baccarat chandelier. During the Christmas period, Tokyo Skytree® is lit up with special light displays.
©TOKYO-SKYTREE
©TOKYO-SKYTREE
On December 31, many Japanese celebrate the coming of a new year by visiting a shrine or temple. Meiji Jingu Shrine receives more visitors than anywhere else in the country. Zojoji Temple offers a spectacular view of Tokyo Tower, and a chance to hear "joya-no-kane"—the ringing of a temple's bell 108 times to usher in the new year. Another great option is to visit Shibuya's Scramble Crossing—the streets are closed to traffic, and the entire intersection turns into a huge countdown party.
A print by a famous ukiyo-e artist, Utagawa Hiroshige, depicts an old legend: on New Year's Eve, foxes put on costumes and parade towards Oji Inari Shrine. Every year, the residents of Oji recreate the scene by dressing up as foxes. They hold paper lanterns and join a lively procession towards the shrine.
The Setagaya Boro-ichi year-end market dates back to 1578. Back then the main items traded were scraps of fabric: "boro." Today around 700 vendors sell antiques, clothing, food, and more. The market is now officially recognized as one of Tokyo's Intangible Folk Cultural Properties.
©SETAGAYA
Hagoita are rectangular wooden paddles that were originally used to play a traditional game similar to badminton. They became seen as auspicious objects that "hit away bad luck," and have been sold as good luck charms for welcoming the new year since the 19th century.
Asakusa Hagoita Fair
During the winter, some popular facilities open ice skating rinks. These ice rinks are a great place to enjoy ice skating with friends or family while out taking care of holiday shopping or enjoying nighttime light displays. Tokyo Midtown, Futako Tamagawa Rise Shopping Center, and LaLaport Toyosu are all excellent locations to check out.
©Tokyo Midtown's Midtown Ice Rink (Photo from a previous year)