As the chill of winter blankets Tokyo, the city comes alive with enchanting events and festivities. From timeless traditions to crafty and unique exhibitions, January 2024 promises a captivating array of experiences for locals and visitors alike. Join us as we explore the magic of Tokyo’s winter wonderland, where the old meets the new in a harmonious celebration of culture, creativity, and community.
Meguro-gawa Minna no Illumination. Photo Credit: Meguro-gawa Minna no Illumination Executive Committee
Meguro-gawa Minna no Illumination – Eco-Friendly Radiance
In addition to the Tokyo Mega Illumi that launched in November, many other illumination projects grace Tokyo during the winter season, such as Meguro-gawa Minna no Illumination. This eco-friendly radiance event along the Meguro River showcases soft pink LEDs on cherry trees, creating a winter cherry blossom spectacle. The use of 400,000 cherry-hued LEDs across 2.2 kilometers mirrors the beauty of real cherry blossoms. “Garden igloo” domes also offer cozy spots to relax and enjoy the enchanting display.
Admission: Free
Date: November 8th – January 8th
Times: 17:00 – 22:00
Location: Meguro River (A short walk from Gotanda Station OR Osaki Station)
Website: www.minna-no-illumi.com/
Setagaya Boroichi Flea Market. Photo Credit: TimeOut
Setagaya Boroichi Flea Market – A Time-Tested Tradition
Setagaya Boroichi Flea Market, a centuries-old cultural gem, epitomizes the magic of collective initiative. With over 700 stalls, this market offers a delightful mish-mash of antiques, trinkets, and household wares. But it’s not just about shopping—dedicated food shops serve up classic Japanese delights like okonomiyaki and takoyaki. Don’t miss traditional treats such as amazake, a sweet, hot drink with roots dating back to the Kofun period. Explore carnival games, or embark on a quest to discover unique oddities offered by various stalls.
Admission: Free to attend; price varies depending on participation
Date: January 15th – 16th
Times: 09:00 – 20:00
Location: 1 Setagaya, Setagaya City, Tokyo
Website: https://www.tokyo-cci.or.jp/setagaya/boroichi/
Sake Window Photo Credit: Zhuo Cheng you on Unsplash
Winter Festival! Local Sake & Local Appetizers 2024 in Yoyogi – Culinary Bliss
Indulge in the Winter Festival at Yoyogi Park from January 26th to 28th, a feast for the senses featuring local sake and regional dishes. The main attraction? A captivating live tuna carving at 11:30 a.m., offering a delightful alternative for those who missed the recent Toyosu tuna auction. Amidst the aroma of fresh seafood, explore sake tastings and camping-inspired cuisine, immersing yourself in the winter mood at this vibrant Yoyogi Park event. Don’t forget to check out the nearby Gotochi Nabe Festival running concurrently for a double dose of culinary delights.
Admission: Free to attend; price varies depending on participation
Date: January 26th – 28th
Times: 10:00 – 19:00 *Final day ends at 18:00
Location: Yoyogi Park 2-1 Yoyogikamizonocho, Shibuya City, Tokyo 151-0052, Japan
Website: https://fuyumatsuri-japan.com/
Jujutsu Kaisen Cafe Gokumonji Tiramisu. Photo Credit: ©芥見下々／集英社・呪術廻戦製作委員会
Jujutsu Kaisen Pop-Up Café – A Culinary Adventure for Fans
Attention Jujutsu Kaisen devotees! Immerse yourself in the world of your favorite characters at the pop-up café in Shibuya 109 department store and BOX cafe & space GEMS Shibuya. Whether you crave Gojo-inspired Tiramisu or Sukuna’s Shibuya parfait, the menu, inspired by the show’s “Shibuya Incident,” offers a visual and gastronomic feast. Enjoy 80-minute slots to relish bites from this unique menu, and don’t miss the exclusive products, from files to figurines, available only at this limited-time pop-up. Secure your spot with online reservations, and remember to arrive 10 minutes before your slot for an unforgettable Jujutsu Kaisen experience. Unleash your inner fan in style!
Admission: ¥660 per ticket
Date: November 16th 2023 – January 21st 2024
Times: Varies depending on reservation
Location: Shibuya 109 2 Chome-29-1 Dogenzaka, Shibuya, Tokyo
Website: https://sj.jujutsukaisen-cafe.jp/
Tokyo Auto Salon 2023 Photo Credit: Tokyo Auto Salon Association
Tokyo Auto Salon 2024 – Rev Up Your Passion for Cars
Tokyo Auto Salon, held annually at Makuhari Messe, is a haven for car enthusiasts. Showcasing race cars and modified vehicles, this event is a must-see for those who love the roar of engines and sleek automotive design. The fantastic range of cars and the presence of models at each booth make it a thrilling experience. Unlike the Tokyo Motor Show, the Auto Salon is open to the public every January, offering enthusiasts the chance to get up close and personal with their dream machines.
Admission:
Friday January 12th Premium Ticket – ¥4,000
Saturday January 13th General Ticket – ¥3,000
Sunday January 14th General Ticket – ¥3,000
Date: January 12 – 14th
Times:
Friday January 12th 14:00 – 19:00
Saturday January 13th 09:00 – 19:00
Sunday January 14th 09:00 – 18:00
Location:Makuhari Messe (Japan Convention Center) 2-1 Nakase, Mihama Ward, Chiba City, Chiba Prefecture
Website: https://www.tokyoautosalon.jp/2024/outline/
Geikosai New Year’s Festival. Photo Credit: Takaosan Yakuouin
Hatsumode and Geikosai New Year’s Festival at Mt. Takao – A Spiritual Journey
Hatsumode, the first worship of the year, becomes an intricate part of Japanese New Year celebrations at Yakuoin, the temple atop Mt. Takao. Thousands make the pilgrimage for the annual New Year’s festival, which includes fire rituals performed at intervals from midnight to 5 pm on New Year’s Day. The cable car runs throughout the night to accommodate visitors seeking blessings and witnessing the first sunrise of the year. Geikosai, a light-welcoming ceremony, adds an enchanting touch as priests chant sutras while the sun rises, often revealing Mt. Fuji on clear days.
Admission: Free to attend; price varies depending on participation
Date: January 1st
Times: 00:00 – 17:00
Location: Mount Takao 2177 Takao-machi, Hachioji City, Tokyo 193-8686
Website: https://www.takaosan.or.jp/english/events.html
Earth Garden Winter Festival. Photo Credit: Earth Garden Facebook
Earth Garden Winter Festival – A Celebration of Sustainability
Earth Garden Winter Festival on January 21st and 22nd at Yoyogi Park is a haven for eco-conscious individuals. The festival promotes an Earth-friendly lifestyle through an outdoor market featuring sustainable products. Workshops, traditional lion dances, and mochi-pounding events celebrate custom, tradition, and sustainability. Live musical performances complement the event’s holistic approach, fostering a sense of community and collective responsibility for the environment.
Admission: Free to attend; price varies depending on participation
Date: January 21st – 22nd
Times: 10:00 – 16:00
Location: Yoyogi Park 2-1 Yoyogikamizonocho, Shibuya City, Tokyo 151-0052, Japan
Website: https://www.earth-garden.jp/event/eg-2023-winter/
Handmade in Japan Festival 2024. Photo Credit: Creema LTD
Handmade in Japan Festival 2024 – Celebrating Creativity
The Handmade in Japan Festival 2024 gathers 3,000 creators from across Japan, showcasing a diverse array of handmade products. From accessories and fashion to interior design and art, this two-day festival provides a sensory experience that reflects the commitment and originality of each creator. Dynamic live painting performances and a variety of handmade foods, including unique seasonings and craft booze, add to the festival’s vibrant atmosphere.
Admission: Advance Ticket: JP¥1,300; Standard Ticket: JP¥1,500 tax included; Free admission for preschoolers
Date: January 13th – 14th
Times: 11:00 – 18:00
Location: West Hall 1 and 2 of Tokyo Big Sight, Japan
Website: https://lp.creema.jp/event/hmj/en
As January unfolds in Tokyo, the city’s diverse offerings invite you to embrace the winter magic. Whether you’re exploring centuries-old traditions at Hatsumode or immersing yourself in the world of automotive innovation at Tokyo Auto Salon, each experience adds a unique layer to Tokyo’s cultural tapestry. Join us in celebrating the harmony of old and new, tradition and innovation, as Tokyo captivates hearts and minds in January 2024.
Feature photo credit: Ryoji Iwata on Unsplash
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