Tokyo events for Monday, December 16 to Sunday, December 22, 2019
Preempt some good luck for the upcoming year by visiting one of the traditional hagoita markets selling lucky rackets. Tech fans will want to attend the International Robot Exhibition, which comes around only once every two years.
Sensoji Temple Hagoita-Ichi Fair
An end-of-year market on Sensoji Temple grounds where you can pick up a good-luck “racket” to adorn your home and fill up on tasty street food too. Keep an eye out for geisha who can be spotted perusing through the market stalls.
IREX International Robot Exhibition 2019
This event, held every other year at Tokyo Big Sight, features the latest and greatest in cutting-edge robotic technology. This event is free with preregistration.
Nishiarai Daishi Temple – End of Year Festival
Close out the year at Nishiarai Daishi Temple where there are plenty of good-luck charms and food options to choose from. It’s also a good excuse to get out of central Tokyo and see a beautiful Buddhist temple you might not otherwise have visited.
Japanese Tea Party with Koto Performance
A chance to see a live performace of the koto—a traditional stringed Japanese instrument. Takes place in the perfect venue too: a four-decade-old green tea shop and cafe.
Tokyo Lovehotels Vol.13 #ALLIWANT
Tokyo LoveHotels is an arts organization that gathers local and international talents to share a night of art, music, experiences and love.
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Winter Solstice Festival
Ward off the cold by picking up a mamori charm at this solstice festival. There’s also a large winter market with plenty of food stalls to choose from.
Kasukabe Hagoita Market
Take a trip to Saitama for a spot of traditional Japanese culture at the Kasukabe Hagoita Market. Hagoita are ornamental rackets based on an old-school New Year’s game. The rackets are brightly decorated with famous kabuki actors, sports stars and other celebs.
Odaiba Rainbow Fireworks
See a grand fireworks show every Saturday night throughout December. The fireworks will go off between Odaiba and the Rainbow Bridge from 7 pm to 7:10 pm.
Tokyo Michi Terrace 2019
Always a crowd-pleaser, Michi Terrace is back and features festive lights projected onto the facade of the iconic Tokyo Station building.
Christmas markets and illuminations
It’s the week before Christmas, so get yourself in the festive spirit by checking out the various illumination festivals and Christmas markets taking place all over the city.
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It’s also a good time to start planning for December 31st. See Tokyo’s top party picks for New Year’s Eve.
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