Must-do New Year’s Day in Tokyo: Crazy Queues for Shrine Visits & Lucky Bags

Photo & Text /NathanYung

What should tourists like NathanYung do on New Year’s Day? Of course, wake up early to watch the Japanese go wild queuing for shrine visits—commonly known as hatsumode.

1. After waking up, head to Solamachi near Tokyo Skytree to see the lion dance performance

Solamachi in Tokyo holds an opening ceremony every New Year’s Day, and just like in 2016, there was a lion dance in 2017. Watching the lion dance is just an excuse—the real goal is grabbing lucky bags and deals on New Year’s Day.

Official event info: http://www.tokyo-solamachi.jp/new/event/672/

Many department stores offer lucky bags—start researching and get ready to shop.

2. Hatsumode: Choose a Good Shrine to Visit

Hatsumode: New Year’s shrine visit. The most ideal tourist spot is definitely Sensoji Temple.

Happy New Year

Japanese Food & Travel Info – Other Tourist Spots:

【Chiba】 Narita City　Naritasan Shinshoji Temple

【Tokyo】 Nerima Ward　Meiji Shrine

[Event details] The “Sound of Sakura” cherry blossom projection mapping show on the Skytree will be held.
【Period】 January 1st, 2017 (Sun)
【Time】 10:00 / 11:00 (Each session is about 20 minutes)
【Venue】 Tokyo Solamachi Plaza at Tokyo Skytree

Nathan Yung's Japanese Food & Travel Info

Nathan Yung, leader of “Japanese Food & Travel Info,” has self-funded trips worth millions since 2012. With a Taiwanese food palate as the base and Japanese cuisine as inspiration, and with his remarkable taste bud talent, he has traveled across Japan sampling its delicacies. Back in Taiwan, he tirelessly reads and cooks to refine his knowledge. He is currently compiling his insights into a book, scheduled for release by the end of 2016.

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