Mon, Dec
22

Winter Solstice Festival

Free
Hotel Options

Also called the Tōji Matsuri or Tōjisai in Japanese, this festival takes place at both a shrine (Ana Hachinmangū) and a temple (Hōjōji) in the Nishi Waseda area on the Winter Solstice each year.

What happens?

Traditionally, this time of year marks the plunge into the depths of winter, so to protect yourself from the cold weather, you can buy a mamori or charm from either the shrine or the temple — or both for good measure.

The charm is called Ichiyo Raifuku, which means to turnaround a negative into a positive. The idea being that the Winter Solstice is the darkest day of the year and from the next day, it gets lighter and lighter.

Suggested Activity
Shibuya Official Street Go-Kart - book now, likely to sell out!
Enjoy a 1 Hour karting experience on the city roads of Tokyo, with up to 55% discount this month! Feel like a celebrity as this course will take you through the famous Shibuya Crossing more than once.

Additionally, there is a large winter market with stalls selling winter produce (such as yuzu) as well as hot food to keep you warm.

Organizers may cancel events, alter schedules, or change admission requirements without notice. Always check official sites before heading to an event.

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