Shibuya in December 2024: Highlights, Events & Festivals

In December, Tokyo’s temperature averages around 10°C (50°F) during the day and drops to 5°C (41°F) at night. Although mornings and evenings can feel chilly, snowfall is rare. During this time, the city prepares for the New Year and Christmas, with department stores and shopping malls adorned with beautiful illuminations, creating a festive ambiance.  

Shibuya, known for the world-famous Scramble Crossing, attracts many young visitors. In December, colorful advertisements and twinkling lights illuminate the nights, making it an ideal spot for photography. Shibuya’s restaurants and cafes also offer a chance to enjoy Japan's seasonal delicacies, adding to the charm of exploring the area.  

December in Shibuya offers various cultural and festive events that reflect Japan’s traditions while leaving tourists with unforgettable winter memories. This guide covers the highlights, dates, and access details for these must-see events.

Table of Contents  
- Traditional Events in Shibuya (December 2024)  
- Unique December Experiences in Shibuya   

Traditional Events in Shibuya (December 2024)

Meiji Jingu Oharae

Source: Official Website

The Oharae ritual purifies both body and mind, preparing people to welcome a new season or year. It has been practiced across Japan for over 1,200 years, occurring biannually in June and December at various shrines. In Japanese culture, purification (祓う, *harau*) plays a key role in relieving stress and cleansing societal impurities.  

At Meiji Jingu, this sacred tradition has been carried on since the shrine's establishment in 1920. Known for its deep connection with the Imperial Family, Meiji Jingu upholds these rituals as part of its mission to preserve tradition.  

During the ceremony, participants transfer their personal impurities onto a paper figure called *hitogata*. Shinto priests then perform purification rites, creating a serene and sacred atmosphere for all attendees. This experience offers visitors a unique insight into the spiritual essence of Japanese Shinto traditions.

Event Information  
- Date: December 31, 2024  
- Access: 1-minute walk from Harajuku Station (Omotesando Exit), JR Yamanote Line  
- Admission: Free  
- Website: https://www.meijijingu.or.jp/

Konno Hachimangu Oharae

Source: Official Website

Konno Hachimangu Shrine, named after Shibuya Konnomaru Tsunemitsu, who served under Minamoto no Yoritomo, the first samurai leader of Japan, has a history dating back to 1092. This shrine’s Oharae ceremony has long served the community, offering blessings of health and protection against misfortune.  

Participants use *hitogata* paper figures to symbolically cleanse themselves of impurities, and priests lead the ritual to complete the purification process. One of the highlights is the shrine's vivid red halls and kagura stage, which exude a solemn and mystical atmosphere.  

Experiencing the Oharae at Konno Hachimangu allows visitors to connect with Shibuya’s deep-rooted traditions and appreciate Japan’s rich cultural heritage.  

Event Information  
- Date: December 31, 2024  
- Access: 8-minute walk from Shibuya Station (JR Yamanote Line, Saikyo Line, and Shonan-Shinjuku Line)  
- Admission: Free  
- Website: https://www.konno-hachimangu.jp/index.html

Joya no Kane – New Year’s Eve Bell Ringing

Joya no Kane is a traditional Japanese New Year’s Eve ceremony, where bells are struck to welcome the new year. The final bell is rung just before midnight, symbolizing the clearing of the old year’s burdens and making space for a fresh start.  

According to Japanese Buddhism, humans are said to harbor 108 earthly desires and emotions (Bonnou) that lead to suffering. To purify oneself of these, temples ring the bell 108 times, each chime signifying the release of one such desire.  

The bell used is a large tsurigane (hanging bell) measuring 2–3 meters in height and 1–1.5 meters in diameter. Participants strike it with a shumoku, a large wooden mallet, to produce a resonating sound. In many temples, visitors are invited to take part in ringing the bell, offering a unique and solemn experience.  

Participate in Joya no Kane at Kyukouji Temple

Source: Official Website

Kyukouji Temple, founded over 400 years ago during the early Edo period, holds the Joya no Kane event annually. Although regular facility use has been paused, the temple remains a local gathering place.  

On December 31st, visitors can join in the bell-ringing ceremony. The serene surroundings offer an escape from the bustling streets of Shibuya. Bell ringing begins at 11:30 PM—each participant gets one turn, free of charge. Although not limited to exactly 108 rings, the event concludes by 1:00 AM, so arriving early is recommended to secure a spot.  

<Information>  
Date: December 31, 2024  
Access: 15-minute walk from JR Ebisu Station  
Admission: Free  
Website: https://kyukouzi.com/

Unique December Experiences in Shibuya

Ao no Dokutsu SHIBUYA – The Blue Cave

Source: Official Website

The Blue Cave SHIBUYA is a magical illumination event spanning 800 meters from Shibuya Park Avenue to the zelkova-lined path of Yoyogi Park. The entire route is bathed in a stunning blue glow, offering a dreamlike winter stroll.  

Visitors can warm up with hot drinks while enjoying the festive lights, making it a perfect romantic outing. A small Christmas market at the end of the path offers treats and unique souvenirs.  

I recommend trying the blue hot lemonade and the blue bagel filled with cream cheese and sweet white bean paste—delicious and Instagram-worthy!  

<Information>  
Access: 10-minute walk from JR Shibuya Station, Hachiko Exit  
Admission: Free  
Website: https://shibuya-aonodokutsu.jp/

Tokyo Christmas Market at Meiji Jingu Gaien

Source: PR Times

The Tokyo Christmas Market at Meiji Jingu Gaien combines traditional Japanese festivities with European holiday traditions. Its centerpiece is a 14-meter-tall Christmas pyramid, which is a rare sight outside of Dresden, Germany.  

Visitors can browse handmade ornaments, wooden crafts, and festive items, perfect for taking home as souvenirs. This event provides an opportunity to experience a blend of Western and Japanese cultures.  

<Information>  
Access:  
- 10-minute walk from Tokyo Metro Ginza Line or Hanzomon Line, Gaienmae Station  
- 5-minute walk from JR Shinanomachi Station  
- 10-minute walk from National Stadium Station  

Admission:  
- November 23 to December 22:  
  Adults: ¥1,000 (weekdays) / ¥1,500 (weekends)  
  Children (elementary school): ¥500  
- December 23 to December 25:  
  Adults: ¥2,000 / Children: ¥1,000  
Website:https://tokyochristmas.net/

Ebisu Gospel Festival

Source: HAPPY MUSIC PROJECT

The Ebisu Gospel Festival offers a unique fusion of Japanese culture with the soulful rhythms of gospel music. It’s an opportunity to witness the passion of Japanese gospel fans and singers who embrace this genre wholeheartedly. 

This event also showcases how foreign influences are adapted and expressed within Japan, making it a fascinating cultural exchange. The performances encourage audience participation, with moments for singing along in English or clapping in rhythm, breaking down cultural barriers and fostering unity. If you're a music enthusiast, this is a must-see experience.

- Date: November 30 - December 1, 2024  
- Access:  
   - 5-minute walk from JR Ebisu Station (East Exit)  
   - 7-minute walk from Tokyo Metro Hibiya Line, Exit 1  
- Admission: Free  
- Website: http://www.happy-music.jp/yebisu/

Shibuya Winter Illumination

Source: Shibuya Keizai Shimbun

The Shibuya Winter Illumination transforms iconic locations, such as Hachiko Square and the streets of Dogenzaka and Miyamasuzaka, into a golden wonderland with 285,000 champagne-colored lights. 

A standout feature is the "Shibuya Sakura Stage," where cherry blossom-inspired lights evoke images of petals gently falling. This combination of illumination and Japan’s natural beauty creates a mesmerizing and uniquely Japanese atmosphere. 

Make sure to explore the local café culture in Shibuya, which offers Instagrammable treats like matcha desserts and traditional sweets. The perfect way to warm up while enjoying the winter lights!

- Date: December 2024  
- Access: Around JR Shibuya Station  
- Admission: Free  
- Website: https://helloneoshibuya.jp/swi/

Ebisu Garden Place Illumination

Source: Official Website

At the heart of the Ebisu Garden Place Illumination stands one of the largest Baccarat chandeliers in the world, with over 8,000 crystal pieces. This luxurious and breathtaking display enhances the European-style ambiance of the area, making it feel both elegant and festive.

The square also hosts a Christmas market with cozy hütte (mountain cabins) selling warm food, hot wine, and handcrafted ornaments. It’s the perfect place to savor holiday treats while surrounded by glowing lights, especially for travelers who enjoy a mix of European traditions and Japanese charm.

- Access:  
   - 5-minute walk from JR Ebisu Station (East Exit)  
   - 7-minute walk from Tokyo Metro Hibiya Line (Exit 1)  
- Admission: Free  
- Website: https://gardenplace.jp/special/2019christmas/illuminations/