The New Year, or Oshōgatsu (お正月), is one of the most important holidays in Japan—a time of reflection, family gatherings, and unique traditions. Tokyo offers a vibrant mix of celebrations, from cultural rituals to festive events, and Kagurazaka provides a serene yet culturally rich setting to experience it all. Whether you’re planning your first trip to Tokyo or are a seasoned traveler, starting the year at KAGURA HOUSE in Kagurazaka offers the perfect balance of tradition, convenience, and relaxation.
Welcoming the New Year in Japan
New Year in Japan is a season of renewal, deeply rooted in customs that date back centuries. While Western countries focus on big parties and countdowns, the Japanese New Year is a time for quiet reflection and meaningful traditions. Tokyo, with its iconic mix of modernity and tradition, comes alive with both bustling celebrations and serene rituals.
Kagurazaka, often referred to as “Tokyo’s Little Kyoto,” offers a peaceful escape from the city’s fast pace. Staying at KAGURA HOUSE allows you to enjoy the charm of this historic neighborhood while immersing yourself in Japan’s rich New Year customs.
Japanese New Year Traditions
1. Hatsumōde: The First Shrine Visit of the Year
One of the most iconic New Year traditions in Japan is Hatsumōde (初詣), the first visit to a shrine or temple to pray for good fortune in the coming year. Kagurazaka’s own Akagi Shrine, a modern yet tranquil sanctuary, is an ideal spot for this ritual. Located just a short walk from KAGURA HOUSE, it offers a serene setting for visitors to make their first prayers of the year.
2. Osechi Ryōri: Traditional New Year Foods
New Year in Japan is incomplete without osechi ryōri (おせち料理), beautifully arranged dishes symbolizing health, prosperity, and happiness. Kagurazaka is known for its culinary excellence, with many local shops and restaurants offering osechi sets for the season. Guests at KAGURA HOUSE can enjoy a taste of tradition by exploring these local offerings or even preparing their own festive meals in the fully equipped kitchen.
3. New Year Decorations
Japanese homes and businesses are adorned with decorations like kagami mochi (a stack of rice cakes) and shimenawa (sacred straw ropes) to welcome the New Year and ward off evil spirits. As you stroll through Kagurazaka, you’ll spot these traditional ornaments displayed outside homes and shops, adding to the festive atmosphere.
New Year Events in Tokyo and Kagurazaka
Tokyo’s New Year season is filled with events, from countdown celebrations to cultural performances. Nearby Shinjuku offers bustling entertainment and light displays, while Kagurazaka provides a quieter, more intimate experience. Visitors can explore local markets, enjoy peaceful walks along the cobblestone streets, or take part in Akagi Shrine’s New Year events.
For those seeking both excitement and tranquility, Kagurazaka’s unique blend of tradition and modernity makes it a perfect destination. Staying at KAGURA HOUSE puts you at the heart of these experiences, with easy access to both the vibrant energy of Tokyo and the calm of this historic neighborhood.
Getting Around Tokyo on New Year’s Eve
If you plan to celebrate New Year’s Eve in Tokyo—whether by visiting shrines for Hatsumōde (the first shrine visit) or ringing in the new year at festive events—it’s important to plan your transportation in advance. While many train lines in Greater Tokyo offer extended late-night services to accommodate the crowds, there are a few things to keep in mind:
Extra Late-Night Trains
JR lines, such as the Yamanote Line, Chuo Line, and Keihin-Tohoku Line, will run late into the night, with trains departing at intervals of 15 to 50 minutes. For example, the Yamanote Line operates between 1:00 AM and 5:00 AM, making it easier to get back to central areas like Shinjuku.
Popular Routes and Special Trains
If you’re celebrating near major areas like Shinjuku or Shibuya, train services like the Keio Railway and Tokyu Lines also run late-night departures to help you get home safely. For a truly unique experience, special trains like the First Sunrise Express on JR lines depart early in the morning, offering passengers a chance to catch Japan’s first sunrise of the year from scenic spots like Chikura and Inubo.
Trains That Don’t Run
Keep in mind that some lines, including the Tokyo Metro, Toei Subway, and several private railways (e.g., Odakyu and Seibu Railways), do not offer late-night services. These lines operate on a standard holiday schedule during the New Year period (December 30 to January 3).
Crowds and Delays
Tokyo’s trains are famous for their efficiency, but New Year’s Eve is one of the busiest nights of the year. Expect crowded carriages, longer wait times, and fewer seats than usual. If you’re not used to navigating busy stations, consider planning your route ahead of time and giving yourself extra time to travel.
Why Stay at KAGURA HOUSE for New Year?
Located in the heart of Kagurazaka, KAGURA HOUSE offers a serene retreat for your New Year celebrations. After a day spent visiting shrines, exploring markets, or enjoying the festive atmosphere in Shinjuku, return to the comfort of this Airbnb-style vacation rental. With spacious accommodations and a fully equipped kitchen, KAGURA HOUSE is ideal for families, friends, or anyone looking to start the year in style.
Its proximity to Akagi Shrine and Kagurazaka’s culinary delights makes KAGURA HOUSE the perfect base for experiencing the best of Tokyo’s New Year traditions.
Start the Year in Kagurazaka
Make your New Year unforgettable by immersing yourself in the beauty and culture of Kagurazaka. Whether it’s participating in Hatsumōde, savoring osechi ryōri, or simply enjoying the peaceful streets of this historic neighborhood, Kagurazaka offers an experience unlike any other.
Book your stay at KAGURA HOUSE today and start your year in Tokyo with a perfect blend of tradition and modern comfort.
