Tokyo in December 2024: Highlights, Events & Festivals
Tokyo, the capital of Japan, is renowned as a place where tradition and modernity harmoniously coexist. While it preserves its historical and cultural heritage, it also serves as a trendsetting hub for contemporary culture.
December in Tokyo offers a true winter experience with average temperatures ranging from 7°C to 9°C (44°F–48°F). On some nights, temperatures may even drop below freezing. Although the mornings and evenings can be chilly, the likelihood of clear weather makes outdoor activities enjoyable—so don't forget your scarf and gloves! The streets come alive with dazzling Christmas illuminations, creating a festive atmosphere throughout the city. From Christmas-themed celebrations to events welcoming the New Year, Tokyo has much to offer in December 2024.
Table of Contents
1. Traditional Events in December 2024
2.Special Experiences in Tokyo in December
3.Seasonal Events in Tokyo for December
4.Gourmet Events in December 2024
Traditional Events in December 2024
Sensoji Hyakuhachikai New Year's Eve Bell
Source: Sensoji Official Website
The **Sensoji Hyakuhachikai New Year's Eve bell-ringing ceremony** is a symbolic event held every December 31st at Sensoji Temple in Asakusa. It celebrates the arrival of the New Year with prayers of gratitude. The bell-ringing tradition dates back to 1951, following the reconstruction of the temple's bell tower after World War II, and has since become a beloved annual event.
The highlight of the ceremony is the ringing of the temple bell 108 times—representing the 108 earthly desires believed to trouble humanity. Participants ring the bell once each to cleanse these desires and usher in the New Year with a pure heart.
The first ring begins at 11:50 PM on December 31, and the moment the clock strikes midnight, the crowd erupts in cheers and applause, creating a magical atmosphere. This is a must-see event for those seeking a quintessentially Japanese way to celebrate the New Year.
Event Details
- Date: December 31, 2024 – January 1, 2025
- Access: 5-minute walk from Asakusa Station (Tokyo Metro, Toei, Tobu, or Tsukuba Express Line)
- Admission: Free
- Website: Sensoji Official Website
New Year’s Celebrations at Other Shrines in Tokyo
- Meiji Jingu Shrine:
Open throughout the night on December 31, Meiji Shrine welcomes visitors to celebrate the New Year amid bustling food stalls offering delicious treats. This is one of the most popular destinations in Japan for Hatsumode, the first shrine visit of the year.
- Date: December 31, 2024 – January 1, 2025
- Access: 1-minute walk from Harajuku Station / 5-minute walk from Kitasando Station / 5-minute walk from Yoyogi Station
- Admission: Free
- Website: Meiji Shrine
- Ikegami Honmonji:
In Ota Ward, 600 lucky participants receive tickets to ring the temple bell after midnight. Tickets are distributed at 11 PM on December 31, and participants take turns ringing the bell in groups of six, making this a unique way to start the New Year.
- Date: December 31, 2024 – January 1, 2025
- Access: 10-minute walk from Ikegami Station (Tokyu Ikegami Line) / 12-minute walk from Nishi-Magome Station (Toei Asakusa Line)
- Admission: Free
- Website: Ikegami Honmonji
Toshinoichi Market – The Year-End Fair
Source: Sensoji Official Website
The **Toshinoichi Market** is a year-end event held in Asakusa, where vendors sell New Year-themed goods and lucky charms. This market has been a tradition since the 1660s, running from **December 17 to December 19**.
A popular item sold at the market is the **Hagoita**—a decorative paddle believed to bring good fortune. Designs range from traditional Japanese motifs to contemporary depictions of celebrities, making it a fascinating blend of old and new.
Visitors can immerse themselves in Japanese culture while shopping and enjoying the festive atmosphere, making this market an excellent place to experience a lively Tokyo event in December.
Event Details
- Date: December 17 – December 19, 2024
- Access: 3-minute walk from Exit B3 of Higashi-Nihombashi Station (Asakusa Line)
- Admission: Free
- Website: Toshinoichi Market
Special Experiences in Tokyo in December
Ryuichi Sakamoto: Seeing Sound, Hearing Time – Museum of Contemporary Art Tokyo
Source: Official Website
The *Ryuichi Sakamoto: Seeing Sound, Hearing Time* exhibition at the Museum of Contemporary Art Tokyo traces the creative journey of the renowned musician and artist Ryuichi Sakamoto (1952–2023). This major solo exhibition is the first of its kind in Japan, drawing significant attention from his fans.
The exhibition features both Sakamoto’s classic works and new pieces he conceptualized for this event before his passing. With dynamic installations blending music and visual art, it offers an immersive experience that will appeal even to those without a background in fine arts.
For fans of Sakamoto or anyone interested in exploring the intersection of sound and visual art, this is a must-see event.
Information
- Dates: December 21, 2024 – March 30, 2025
- Access: 9-minute walk from Kiyosumi-Shirakawa Station (Tokyo Metro Hanzomon Line, Exit B2) / 13-minute walk from Kiyosumi-Shirakawa Station (Toei Oedo Line, Exit A3)
- Admission: TBD
- Website: Museum of Contemporary Art Tokyo
Comiket (Comic Market)
Source: THE SANKEI SHIMBUN
Comiket, or Comic Market, is the world’s largest gathering for self-published works, first held in 1975. It focuses on fan-made manga, anime, and game-related content. What makes this event unique is the freedom of creative expression, where visitors can find niche works and rare self-published books not available elsewhere.
In addition to purchasing works, cosplay is another major highlight of Comiket. Fans dress up as their favorite characters, creating an interactive and festive environment. This event is highly recommended for those who enjoy Tokyo's vibrant subculture.
Information
- Dates: December 29 – December 30, 2024
- Access: 7-minute walk from Kokusai-Tenjijo Station (Rinkai Line) / 2-minute walk from Ariake Station (Yurikamome Line)
- Admission: ¥5,000 (Advance ticket purchase required)
- Website: Comiket Official Website
Tokyo Comic Con 2024
Source: Official Website
Tokyo Comic Con celebrates pop culture by featuring movies, comics, anime, and games. Held annually since 2016, it offers various events such as cosplay contests, panel discussions, and exhibitions of movie props and costumes. Visitors can enjoy unique merchandise and meet Hollywood actors and voice actors through autograph sessions and photo ops.
This family-friendly event has something for everyone, from avid fans to casual visitors.
Information
- Dates: December 6 – December 8, 2024
- Access: 5-minute walk from Kaihimmakuhari Station (JR Keiyo Line)
- Admission: General: ¥4,900 / Under 18: ¥1,000 / Under 15: ¥500
- Website: Tokyo Comic Con
Jump Festa
Source: Official Website
Jump Festa is a large-scale event organized by the publisher Shueisha, celebrating the world of *Weekly Shonen Jump* and its associated magazines. Visitors can enjoy exhibitions, exclusive merchandise, and stage events featuring popular series.
The 2024 edition will commemorate the 10th anniversary of *Shonen Jump Plus* with special programs and announcements. Fans are encouraged to cosplay their favorite characters to connect with other enthusiasts.
Information
- Dates: December 21 – December 22, 2024
- Access: 5-minute walk from Kaihimmakuhari Station (JR Keiyo Line)
- Admission: Free
- Website: Jump Festa
Seasonal Events in Tokyo for December
Tokyo Christmas Market
Source: Official Website 2023
The Tokyo Christmas Market brings the authentic atmosphere of a German holiday market to Japan. A highlight of the event is its 14-meter-tall Christmas Pyramid, a beautiful wooden structure imported from Seiffen Village, Germany, glowing warmly with orange lights—an eye-catching alternative to the usual Christmas tree.
Visitors can enjoy traditional Glühwein (mulled wine), sweets, and a variety of Christmas ornaments. The festive ambiance is perfect for those who love romance or are curious to experience the magic of a European Christmas in the heart of Tokyo.
Ebisu Gospel Festival
Source: Official Website 2023
Held at Ebisu Garden Place Center Square, the Ebisu Gospel Festival is the largest gospel music event in Japan. It brings together various gospel groups and artists, performing in a space beautifully decorated with a Baccarat chandelier and a Christmas tree.
This free event allows visitors to experience soul-stirring gospel performances while also enjoying shopping and dining at the nearby facilities. It's a perfect way to combine music appreciation with holiday leisure.
- Dates: November 30 – December 1, 2024
- Access: About 5 minutes from JR Ebisu Station via the Ebisu Sky Walk
- Admission: Free
- Website: Ebisu Gospel Festival
4.Gourmet Events in December 2024
TRY Ramen of the Year Festival 2024
Source: PR TIMES
The TRY Ramen of the Year Festival celebrates the 25th anniversary of this prestigious ramen award. The event brings together some of the best ramen shops across Tokyo, offering an unparalleled opportunity to try award-winning dishes.
Admission is free, and all ramen bowls are priced at 1,000 yen. The event is organized in a way that allows visitors to try multiple styles and flavors. Additionally, covered seating ensures the festival can be enjoyed even on rainy days.
- Dates: November 26 – December 15, 2024
- Access: About 6 minutes on foot from JR Shin-Okubo Station
- Admission: Free
- Website: TRY Ramen Festival
