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

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

When New Year's Eve rolls around, Shibuya Crossing—the busiest intersection on the planet—turns into one giant, electrifying street party! Every year, tens of thousands flock here, creating an unbeatable buzz as everyone counts down to midnight together. The surrounding buildings, including the famous 109, light up with huge screens showing the countdown, while cheers from the crowd build to an unforgettable roar as the clock strikes twelve. To get the best vantage point, it’s smart to show up 2-3 hours early. Or, for a more relaxed vibe, snag a reservation at Starbucks or one of the nearby spots and toast the New Year in comfort!

If you’re in Tokyo for New Year’s Eve, Meiji Shrine is the place to be for Hatsumode, the traditional first shrine visit of the year. Drawing over 3 million visitors annually, this iconic spot comes alive from the evening of December 31st, welcoming crowds eager to take part in age-old rituals. Here, you can soak up the festive atmosphere by joining the worship ceremonies, savor piping hot oden from lively food stalls, and pick up lucky charms like omamori and ema to bring good fortune for the year ahead. To beat the busiest rush—especially between midnight and 3 AM—try visiting during quieter hours for a more relaxed and enjoyable experience.

Celebrate New Year's Eve at Tokyo's most iconic landmark, Tokyo Tower, where a dazzling light show will light up the night sky! Whether you're snapping photos from Odaiba or Roppongi, the glowing tower makes for a stunning backdrop. Down below, the open plaza buzzes with festive energy, featuring food stalls to keep your hunger at bay. Plus, on this special night, Tokyo Tower stays open late—giving you the unique chance to ring in the New Year from its observation deck with breathtaking city views!

If you’re looking to experience a truly authentic Japanese New Year’s Eve, there’s no better place than Senso-ji Temple, Tokyo’s oldest and most iconic temple. As midnight approaches, the temple’s bell tolls 108 times—a symbolic tradition meant to cleanse away the 108 human desires and welcome a fresh start. Visitors are invited to join in these timeless rituals, soaking up the vibrant cultural atmosphere that fills the air.

But the celebration doesn’t stop there. The temple grounds come alive with a lively New Year’s festival, featuring an array of food stalls serving up delicious treats. Plus, starting on the evening of December 31, some shops along Nakamise Street stay open late, giving you the perfect chance to browse and shop as you countdown to the new year. It’s a festive, unforgettable way to ring in the year ahead!

Celebrate New Year's Eve in style at the world’s tallest broadcasting tower, Tokyo Skytree, where a dazzling light show lights up the night sky! Whether you choose to head up to the observation deck for breathtaking panoramic views or relax in nearby Sumida Park to take it all in, the experience is unforgettable. During the New Year festivities, the Skytree offers special nighttime hours and exclusive holiday packages. Plus, the surrounding shopping malls come alive with festive events, making it the perfect spot to shop, dine, and celebrate all at once!

If you're looking for a memorable way to ring in the New Year, Odaiba is the place to be! This waterfront area offers stunning night views of Tokyo Bay, featuring iconic sights like the Rainbow Bridge and even a replica of the Statue of Liberty. During the New Year's celebration, you’ll catch a charming fireworks display that lights up the sky. For the best experience, head to spots near the Odaiba Shopping Plaza or the Ferris Wheel, where you can take in the full panorama. Just a heads-up: be sure to check the last train times in advance, and consider booking a hotel nearby to make your night hassle-free.

Looking for a magical way to welcome the New Year? Tokyo Disneyland is the place to be! The park lights up with special New Year's Eve festivities, featuring lively parade performances and a breathtaking fireworks display that you won’t want to miss. Make sure to grab your exclusive New Year's tickets ahead of time—keep an eye on the official website for the latest ticket sale updates. Inside the park, you’ll find unique New Year's themed food and limited-edition merchandise, perfect for creating unforgettable memories and snagging one-of-a-kind souvenirs!

For an unforgettable way to ring in the new year, head to Roppongi Hills, one of the best spots to soak in Tokyo's stunning skyline. This year’s New Year's Eve bash promises live DJ sets and unique cocktails crafted just for the occasion. Over at the Tokyo City View observatory, you can enjoy a special New Year's package that lets you welcome 2025 in a cozy indoor atmosphere. Plus, the area’s upscale restaurants will be rolling out exclusive New Year's Eve menus, making it the perfect place to celebrate in style.

If you're looking to ring in the New Year with energy and excitement, Shinjuku is the place to be! This bustling Tokyo district truly lights up as midnight approaches. Head over to the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building Plaza to join the lively countdown crowd, or dive into the vibrant nightlife of Kabukicho, where the party goes on until dawn. With plenty of restaurants and bars rolling out special events, it's a smart move to book your spot early. And a quick tip: keep an eye on the last train times, or better yet, find a nearby hotel to make your night stress-free!

Planning to ring in the New Year in Tokyo? You’re in for a treat! Beyond the thrilling countdown celebrations, be sure to dive into the charming Japanese tradition of Hatsumode—the first shrine visit of the year. Since this is a popular time to visit, it’s smart to book your accommodation early to avoid any last-minute hassles. 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 so you can get around smoothly. Here’s to making your New Year in Tokyo truly unforgettable!