20+ Best Events in Tokyo in January 2025

Tokyo, a vibrant metropolis renowned for its captivating blend of tradition and modernity, offers a plethora of exciting events throughout the year. January, the first month of the year, is no exception, with a diverse range of festivities, exhibitions, and cultural experiences to tantalize visitors. From celebrating the New Year with ancient rituals to exploring cutting-edge art installations, January in Tokyo promises a memorable journey for every traveler.

New Year Festivities 2025

As the year dawns, Tokyo comes alive with traditional New Year celebrations. These festivities offer a glimpse into the city’s rich cultural heritage and a chance to partake in age-old customs.

• Hatsumōde: This tradition involves visiting a shrine or temple on the first three days of the New Year to pray for good fortune and blessings. Popular destinations include the Meiji Jingu Shrine, Sensō-ji Temple, and the Tokyo Tower.

• New Year’s Eve Countdown: Tokyo’s iconic Shibuya Crossing becomes a spectacle of lights, music, and festive cheer as locals and tourists gather to count down the final moments of the year. Many bars and restaurants host special New Year’s Eve events with live music and countdown parties.
• First Sunrise: Known as Hatsuhinode, the first sunrise of the year is considered a significant event. Popular spots to witness this spectacle include Mount Fuji, the Tokyo Skytree, and the beaches of Kamakura.
• Kadomatsu: These traditional decorations, made from bamboo and pine branches, are placed outside homes and businesses to symbolize prosperity and ward off evil spirits. They are typically displayed from December 26th until January 7th.
• New Year’s Food: The New Year is marked by special dishes that symbolize good luck and prosperity. These include ozoni (mochi soup), osechi ryori (traditional New Year’s dishes), and kakizome (the first calligraphy of the year).

Art and Culture

Tokyo is a global hub for contemporary art, boasting a vibrant and diverse art scene. January sees a multitude of exhibitions showcasing the latest in visual arts, photography, and performance art.

• Art Fair Tokyo: Held annually at the Tokyo International Forum, Art Fair Tokyo is a prominent platform for contemporary art. It features galleries from Japan and abroad, showcasing a wide range of works, from paintings and sculptures to installations and digital art.
• Tokyo Photographic Art Festival: This month-long festival celebrates the art of photography, with exhibitions, workshops, and screenings taking place across the city. It provides a platform for both established and emerging photographers to showcase their work.
• National Museum of Modern Art, Tokyo: This renowned museum houses a vast collection of Japanese and international modern and contemporary art. It frequently hosts special exhibitions showcasing works by prominent artists.
• Mori Art Museum: Situated in the Roppongi Hills complex, this museum focuses on contemporary art from around the world. It offers stunning views of the cityscape and often features thought-provoking exhibitions.
• Ghibli Museum: This whimsical museum dedicated to the works of Studio Ghibli, a renowned Japanese animation studio, is a must-visit for fans of anime and animation. It features interactive exhibits, themed gardens, and a charming café.

Winter Festivals and Events

January in Tokyo offers a unique opportunity to experience winter festivals and events that celebrate the season. From ice sculptures to light displays, these events create a magical atmosphere.

• Tokyo Midtown Winter Illumination: This annual event transforms the Tokyo Midtown complex into a dazzling winter wonderland. The stunning light displays feature intricate designs and vibrant colors, creating a magical atmosphere.
• Shibuya Scramble Crossing Illumination: The iconic Shibuya Scramble Crossing is illuminated with vibrant lights, creating a mesmerizing spectacle. This popular event draws crowds from across the city, transforming the intersection into a festive hub.
• Snow Festival in Hibiya Park: This winter festival brings a touch of winter magic to Tokyo. It features snow sculptures, ice slides, and other winter-themed attractions, making it a fun outing for families and individuals.
• Winter Illumination in Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden: This serene garden is transformed into a winter wonderland with captivating light displays. Visitors can stroll through the illuminated pathways and enjoy the breathtaking beauty of the garden during this special event.
• Sumida River Fireworks: While not exclusively a January event, the Sumida River Fireworks festival sometimes occurs in the first month of the year. This spectacular display of fireworks over the Sumida River is a dazzling spectacle that draws large crowds.

Food and Drink

Tokyo’s culinary scene is renowned for its diversity and innovation, offering a wide range of dining experiences. January brings a unique selection of seasonal flavors and special events for foodies to enjoy.

• Osechi Ryori: This traditional New Year’s cuisine consists of a variety of dishes served in elaborately decorated boxes. Each dish holds a symbolic meaning, representing good fortune, prosperity, and longevity.
• Winter Seafood: The cold winter months bring in a variety of fresh seafood, including fugu (pufferfish), kanpachi (amberjack), and tai (red sea bream). These fish are often featured in special dishes during this time.
• Seasonal Fruits: January is the peak season for citrus fruits, including mikan (Japanese mandarin oranges), yuzu (Japanese citron), and kabosu (Japanese citrus). These fruits are often used in desserts, drinks, and even savory dishes.
• Hot Pot: As the weather turns cold, nabe (hot pot) becomes a popular dish. It involves simmering a variety of ingredients, such as meat, vegetables, and seafood, in a flavorful broth.
• Winter Cocktails: Many bars and restaurants offer special winter cocktails featuring seasonal ingredients like citrus fruits and spices. These drinks provide a warming and festive touch to the cold evenings.

Shopping

Tokyo is a shopper’s paradise, offering everything from luxury boutiques to traditional markets. January is a great time to find bargains and enjoy special events.

• New Year’s Sales: Many shops and department stores hold massive sales after the New Year, offering discounts on a wide range of merchandise. This is a great opportunity to snag some deals on clothing, electronics, and other items.
• Omotesando: This upscale shopping district is home to luxury brands, designer boutiques, and independent shops. It’s a great place to find unique gifts and stylish items.
• Ginza: This elegant district is renowned for its high-end department stores and luxury brands. It’s a great place to indulge in some retail therapy and experience the epitome of Japanese style.
• Akihabara: This electronics and anime district is a must-visit for tech enthusiasts and fans of pop culture. It offers a wide range of gadgets, anime merchandise, and games.
• Traditional Markets: Tokyo is home to several traditional markets, such as Ameya-yokocho and Tsukiji Outer Market, where you can find fresh produce, local delicacies, and souvenirs.

Conclusion

January in Tokyo offers a vibrant mix of cultural experiences, exciting events, and seasonal delights. Whether you’re looking to celebrate the New Year with ancient rituals, explore the latest in contemporary art, or simply enjoy the city’s unique winter atmosphere, there’s something for everyone in this captivating metropolis. From traditional festivals to modern art installations, January in Tokyo promises a memorable journey that will leave you with lasting impressions.

Tags

• Tokyo Events
• New Year’s Events
• Art Exhibitions
• Winter Festivals
• Tokyo Shopping