New Year’s Eve in Tokyo | Top 9 Countdown Spots for 2025/2026, Complete Guide to New Year’s Visits

Thinking about how to ring in the New Year in Tokyo? From lively countdown parties and serene shrine visits to dazzling fireworks displays, the city has something truly special for everyone. If you’re eager to dive into authentic Japanese New Year traditions, come along as we uncover the top spots to celebrate and welcome 2026 in style!

When New Year’s Eve rolls around, Shibuya Crossing—the world’s busiest intersection—turns into one of Tokyo’s biggest outdoor celebrations. Every year, tens of thousands flock here, creating an electric atmosphere as everyone counts down to midnight together. The iconic 109 building and nearby giant screens light up with countdown visuals, and the roar of the crowd when the clock strikes twelve is something you have to experience to believe. If you want a prime spot, make sure to get there 2 to 3 hours early. For a more comfortable way to ring in the New Year, consider reserving a seat at Starbucks or one of the nearby eateries—you’ll get a cozy perch to watch the festivities unfold!

If you’re in Tokyo for New Year’s, Meiji Shrine is the place to be for Hatsumode—the traditional first shrine visit of the year. Every year, over 3 million people flock here to soak in the festive atmosphere. The shrine opens its gates from the evening of December 31, inviting visitors to join in the New Year’s prayers. As you wander through, you can take part in the age-old worship rituals, warm up with some piping hot oden from nearby food stalls, and pick up omamori (lucky charms) or ema (wooden prayer plaques) to bring good fortune for the year ahead. To beat the biggest crowds, try to steer clear of the busiest time between midnight and 3 a.m.—visiting during quieter hours makes for a much more relaxed and enjoyable experience.

Tokyo Tower, the city’s beloved icon, lights up the night with a dazzling special light show to ring in the New Year! For breathtaking views and fantastic photo opportunities, head over to spots like Odaiba or Roppongi, where the illuminated tower creates a magical backdrop. Down below, the open area at the tower’s base comes alive with festive New Year’s Eve events and a variety of food stalls to keep you fueled. Plus, here’s a treat: on New Year’s Eve, Tokyo Tower stays open later than usual, giving you the chance to toast the New Year from its observation deck — an experience you won’t want to miss!

If you’re looking to experience a truly authentic Japanese New Year’s Eve, Senso-ji Temple is the place to be. As Tokyo’s oldest temple, it comes alive at midnight with the resonant tolling of the bell 108 times—a tradition known as Joya no Kane. This ritual is believed to cleanse away the 108 human desires and welcome a fresh start. Beyond the spiritual ceremony, the temple grounds buzz with festive energy, featuring a lively New Year festival filled with tempting food stalls. And if you arrive late on December 31, you’ll find that some shops along Nakamise Shopping Street stay open, giving you the perfect chance to browse and soak up the atmosphere while counting down to the New Year.

Ring in the New Year at the iconic Tokyo Skytree, the tallest broadcasting tower on the planet, where a dazzling light show lights up the night sky! You can head up to the observation deck for breathtaking panoramic views or soak in the festive atmosphere from nearby Sumida Park. Around this special time, the Skytree offers limited evening hours along with exclusive New Year’s packages. Plus, the adjacent shopping malls come alive with festive events, making it the perfect spot to shop, dine, and celebrate the start of the year all in one vibrant location!

Looking for a spectacular spot to ring in the New Year with stunning views? Odaiba is the place to be! From here, you’ll catch breathtaking sights of Tokyo Bay, including iconic landmarks like the Rainbow Bridge and even a replica of the Statue of Liberty. As midnight approaches, enjoy a charming fireworks display that lights up the sky. For the best experience, celebrate near the Odaiba Shopping Plaza or by the Odaiba Ferris Wheel, where the panoramic views are simply unbeatable. Just a heads-up—make sure to check the last train times in advance, and consider booking a hotel nearby to keep the night stress-free and enjoyable.

Looking for a truly magical way to welcome the New Year? Tokyo Disneyland is the place to be! The park lights up with special New Year's Eve celebrations, featuring dazzling parades and spectacular fireworks that will leave you in awe. Just a heads-up: you’ll need to grab those special New Year's tickets ahead of time, so keep an eye on their official website for the latest ticket release dates. While you’re there, don’t miss out on the exclusive New Year's-themed treats and unique merchandise—perfect for snagging some memorable souvenirs!

Ring in the New Year with unforgettable panoramic views of Tokyo's dazzling skyline! Roppongi Hills is the place to be, hosting an exciting New Year's Eve bash complete with live DJ sets and exclusive cocktails crafted just for the occasion. For a more intimate celebration, the Tokyo City View observation deck offers a special New Year's package, letting you welcome 2025 in a warm and cozy indoor atmosphere. Plus, the area is packed with stylish restaurants serving up unique New Year's Eve menus to make your night even more memorable.

If you’re looking for an unforgettable New Year’s Eve in Tokyo, Shinjuku is where the action happens. This bustling district truly lights up as the clock ticks down—head to the plaza at the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building to join the lively countdown crowd. For those who want to party until dawn, Kabukicho’s vibrant nightlife scene won’t disappoint. With plenty of restaurants and bars offering special New Year’s celebrations, it’s a smart move to book your spot early. And don’t forget to check the last train schedules or consider staying nearby to keep the festivities stress-free!

Looking to ring in the New Year in Tokyo? We've got you covered with some top spots to celebrate! Beyond the thrilling countdown parties, make sure to take part in Hatsumode—the special Japanese tradition of visiting a shrine for the first time in the new year. Since this is a popular season, booking your accommodation ahead of time is a smart move. Don’t forget to pack cozy clothes to stay warm, bring along a portable charger to keep your devices powered, and double-check the public transport schedules to avoid any surprises. Here’s to making your New Year's experience in Tokyo truly unforgettable!