As the holiday season approaches, Tokyo is ready to offer an unforgettable celebration for travellers looking to experience something truly unique. From dazzling Christmas markets to captivating New Year's traditions, Tokyo has something special for every type of festive traveller.

Christmas in Tokyo: Romance and Wonder

Unlike western style Christmas, which is steeped in family traditions, Tokyo celebrates Christmas in a distinctly romantic and festive way. While Christmas Eve is often seen as a time for couples to celebrate with dinners and romantic strolls, the New Year period is a time when families come together to honour deep-rooted traditions.

For those visiting Tokyo during the Christmas season, don't miss the enchanting Christmas markets scattered across the city. The Jingugaien Christmas Market, running from November 19 to December 25, is perfect for an intimate stroll, offering a European-style experience filled with cozy stalls selling handcrafted gifts and festive treats. Other standout markets include:

• Roppongi Hills Christmas Market (November 23–December 25) – Located in one of Tokyo's most upscale districts, this market offers a sophisticated atmosphere with a wide range of gourmet food and Christmas-themed crafts.
• Solamachi Christmas Market (November 7–December 25) –At the iconic Tokyo SKYTREE, this market blends the traditional and modern with festive lights and unique holiday offerings.
• Azabudai Hills Christmas Market (November 23–December 25) – Set in the heart of the vibrant Azabu district, this market is known for its delicious European-inspired fare and stunning views of the city.

Illuminations: Tokyo's Dazzling Winter Lights

Tokyo is renowned for its spectacular illuminations that light up the city during the holiday season. Not to be missed, the Tokyo Midtown and Shibuya Blue Cave illuminations feature millions of sparkling LED lights. The Caretta Shiodome offers an equally captivating display of lights synchronized with music, while Yebisu Garden Place provides an elegant and festive ambiance with its breathtaking winter light shows. 

Ice Skating in Tokyo

Another quintessential winter experience, Tokyo offers several fantastic ice-skating rinks. The Tokyo Midtown Ice Skating Rink (November 22–February 24) provides a beautiful, festive atmosphere with a view of the sparkling city skyline. Glide under the stars in the Ginza this year as the GINZA SIX Rooftop Star Skating Rink is back (November 16-January 26). Skating is also scheduled to return to Tokyo Skytree Town, another exciting option (dates to be announced soon).

Joya no Kane: Ringing in the New Year

As the New Year approaches, Tokyo comes alive with the sound of Joya no Kane, the ritual tolling of temple bells that reverberates across the city. This sacred tradition takes place on New Year's Eve, symbolizing the cleansing of sins from the past year and the hope for a fresh start. Experience the ritual at notable temples like:

• Zojoji Temple (December 31) – Located near Tokyo Tower, this temple offers a powerful and spiritual Joya no Kane experience.
• Nishiaraidaishi (December 31) – Known for its peaceful atmosphere, it's a perfect place to reflect as the bell tolls.
• Ikegami Honmonji Temple (December 31) – This large, historic temple provides a beautiful setting for the Joya no Kane experience.

Hatsumode: New Year's Shrine Visits

For the Japanese, New Year's Day and few days thereafter is a time for spiritual renewal, and Hatsumode refers to the first shrine visit of the year. Visitors can take part in this cherished tradition by visiting some of Tokyo's most revered shrines and temples:

• Kanda Myojin – A popular shrine known for its vibrant New Year's festivities and crowds of worshippers offering prayers for good fortune in the year ahead.
• Meiji Jingu – Tokyo's most famous shrine, located in a tranquil forested area, it's a serene place to experience the energy of the New Year.
• Yasukuni Jinja – A solemn and historic shrine, it's an important site for those seeking to connect with Japan's rich cultural traditions.
• Yakuoin Temple at Takao San – A scenic and spiritual retreat on Mount Takao, where visitors can enjoy a peaceful first prayer of the year surrounded by nature.

Experience Tokyo's Winter Holiday Spirit

Tokyo's year-end holiday season blends modern festivities with deep-rooted cultural traditions, creating an atmosphere unlike any other. Whether it's wandering through Christmas markets, enjoying ice skating, or participating in New Year's rituals, Tokyo offers something for everyone. For those seeking to experience the magic of both Christmas and New Year in a city full of lights, tradition, and joy, there's no better destination than Tokyo this holiday season.

About Tokyo Convention & Visitors Bureau:

Founded by the Tokyo Chamber of Commerce and Industry and private enterprises and launched in 1997, TCVB is the official tourism organization of Tokyo. The mission of TCVB is to promote Tokyo as a tourist destination to increase overseas visitors and satisfy their needs, to attract international business events to Tokyo and to support community development through tourism. Along with 580 travel industry partners, TCVB is your travel concierge in Tokyo.

Official Tokyo Travel Guide:  www.gotokyo.org/en