Written by Patrick Balfe
Researched by Alexandra Ziminski
2026– the year that Japan saw an Expo, a woman Prime Minister, and more than a handful of bears — is coming to a close. But before that clock hits midnight on December 31, there’s still time to catch some of these festivities and events in Tokyo.
Remember, December is the month of winter illuminations and Christmas markets in Tokyo. If you are looking for a New Year countdown party or more traditional things to do, then check out our dedicated New Year’s Eve guide.
For the top events in Tokyo throughout the year, check out our complete guide — organized by month.
1. Odaiba Rainbow Fireworks
See fireworks every Saturday in December
Get ready for some pretty awesome fireworks. Already a romantic spot, the Seaside Park in front of Decks Shopping Mall will be filled to the brim with couples every Saturday in December (plus the 24th). While the fireworks display only lasts for five minutes, it’s still well worth the visit — plus there are plenty of other things to do in Odaiba while you’re there.
2. Hagoita-ichi Fairs
Hit that bad luck into the stratosphere
Hagoita are wooden paddles that were once used to play hanetsuki, a Japanese badminton-like game. Over time, they became regarded as an auspicious symbol — they’re used for hitting, after all, so maybe they could “hit” bad luck as well; get it? Thus, at Sensoji Temple’s Hagoita Market and Kasukabe Hagoita Market you’ll see elaborate, purely ornamental hagoita, which are meant to welcome good luck and drive away bad luck. Great for gifts.
3. Winter Comiket
See fans dress up in cosplay
If you’re into Japanese pop culture, comics, and cosplay, be sure not to miss Winter Comiket, the major geeky year-ender. This event draws tons of doujinshi (fan-made comics) collectors, cosplayers, and photographers every year, so be prepared for crowds and queues (yes, even to take photos of the more popular cosplayers).
Note: Some (more than a little bit) of the content on display is adult-oriented, so Comiket is not necessarily the most family-friendly event — it’s targeted more towards die-hard comic fans and cosplayers.
If you’re planning to dress up, read our guide to cosplaying at Comiket to learn about Japanese cosplay event etiquette and what to expect.
4. Tokyo Comic Con
Celebrate Western comics and see celebrities
While anime and manga are celebrated year-round in Japan, the biggest celebration of Western comic books and entertainment takes place in December.
Comic Con is famous the world over for merchandise, celebrity meet-and-greets, as well as cosplay — and Tokyo’s edition is no different. For 2025, names such as Elijah Wood, Sean Astin, Johnny Depp, Jon Bernthal, Christina Ricci, Mads Mikkelsen, and Jack Quaid are set to make an appearance.
5. Christmas markets
Ding! Dong! Merrily on high
Are we cheating with this entry? A little. While we have a whole article detailing the best Christmas markets, our three ultimate favorites are:
6. Chichibu Night Festival
Towering floats with lanterns and fireworks
Find floats, fireworks, and food at this explosive winter festival. The biggest day is December 3, the Grand Festival, but both days will feature the towering lit-up floats that the event is known for. While around two hours from Tokyo, there will apparently be more trains on the day than usual if you’re planning on making the trip.
7. Jump Festa
One Piece obsessed?
Another massive pop-culture event this month is Jump Festa, for those obsessed with the manga serialized in Jump magazines. Rifle through merchandise at this two-day expo that celebrates titles such as One Piece, Dragon Ball, Naruto, Slam Dunk, and Bleach. You can also expect panels and talks with creatives. Oh, also, it’s free.
8. Asakusa Culture and Lights
Tokyo’s most famous temple gets the projection-mapping treatment
Asakusa Culture and Lights will make history as Sensōji Temple gets a new look with lights and projection mapping. For the first time in history, the temple’s Hōzōmon Gate, Five-Storied Pagoda, and Nitenmon Gate will come to life through digital animations inspired by its history and culture. In addition to the free event, a couple of other special paid experiences are available to check out.
While we do our best to ensure it’s correct, information is subject to change. Post first published in November 2016. Last updated in November 2025.
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