Hatsumōde New Year Shrine Visit in Tokyo

Participate in the Japanese custom of hatsumōde with this free guided New Year shrine visit tour in Tokyo.

What to expect

During this tour, you’ll visit Kanda Myōjin Shrine while learning about Japanese New Year traditions and shrine rituals. After the visit, you’ll have time to hang out and unwind with warm drinks and friendly conversation at the nearby WeLearn Café.

With around 1300 years of history, Kanda Myōjin Shrine is one of central Tokyo’s most historic and picturesque shrines, making it a perfect location for hatsumōde, the first shrine visit of the year. With a professional local guide, you’ll be able to make the most of your visit and discover Japanese history and customs.

Schedule

Here’s what the afternoon will look like.

Meeting

Everyone will meet at the front of JR Akihabara Station before 2 p.m. (Electric Town Exit — Right in front of Akihabara Radio Kaikan (the large building just outside the exit).

Event organizers will have a WeLearn sign. If you get lost or you’re running late, contact the organizers via Line.

Walk to Kanda Myōjin Shrine

The group will then walk to Kanda Myōjin Shrine (about 11 minutes). Along the way, you’ll learn about Japanese New Year customs, the meaning of hatsumōde, and simple Japanese phrases used at shrines.

Shrine visit experience

Starting with the hand purification ritual, you’ll learn the right way to visit a shrine and properly offer your prayers. While you’re there, you’ll also have the chance to collect an omikuji fortune slip and learn your fortune for the new year. As one of the city’s most charming shrines, there will also be plenty of opportunities to take pictures during your visit.

Café Social Time

Afterwards, back at WeLearn Café (about a 10-minute walk), you’ll have time to relax and unwind with a warm drink, discuss your fortunes, and share your goals for 2026.

Entry

This event is free to join. Members can sign up via the official website; non-members should register via this Google Form. WeLearn is currently offering a 7-day free trial of its membership program, which includes free entry to future events. Check it out via their website here.

Notes

Organizers recommend you bring comfortable walking shoes, warm clothing, and coins for prayer offerings and omikuji fortune slips. First-timers and tourists are welcome, and English support is available throughout the tour. Please take care of your valuables, you’ll be walking through crowded areas.