J-Culture Fest: New Year’s Theme Park

Experience all the traditions of Japanese New Year under one roof at the New Year Theme Park event. A unique cultural period without the fanfare and fireworks of other countries, New Year in Japan is a quieter and more traditional affair. Aside from the hatsunode (the first shrine/temple visit of the year) it can be hard to join in with other traditions, but the Tokyo International Forum has you covered. There will be carnival stalls, a chance to try mochi-making and to try ozoni-soup—all staples of the new year celebration. There will be an area for children to try crafts, stage performances and a space to try seasonal kimono too.

There will also be some full-length performances of music, theater and dance including kabuki complete with full costumes, but these are ticketed and cost ¥4,000 to ¥6,000 per person.

(Lily Crossley-Baxter)