Celebrate the New Year in Tokyo with Hatsumode, Fox Parades, and Serene Gardens

Welcome to 'Things to Do in Tokyo' on this crisp Friday, January 3, 2025 As we step into the new year, Tokyo is buzzing with a mix of traditional celebrations, modern festivities, and vibrant cultural events.

First, let's set the scene: January in Tokyo brings a relatively mild winter, with daytime temperatures hovering around 9° to 11°C and nighttime lows between 3° and 5°C. The city is experiencing its usual winter chill, but the crisp air and occasional sunshine make it a perfect time to explore. However, be prepared for some rain, as January is known to be one of the wetter months.

Now, let's dive into some of the exciting events happening today:

- **Hatsumode and Geikosai New Year's Festival at Mt. Takao**: Start your day with a spiritual journey to Yakuoin Temple on Mount Takao. This festival, which began at midnight, features sacred rituals, mountain ascetics blowing conch shells, and priests reciting sutras. It's a unique blend of spiritual renewal and breathtaking views of Mount Fuji[1].
- **Ōji Inari Shrine Fox Parade (Kitsune no Gyoretsu)**: If you're looking for something more colorful and lively, head to Ōji Inari Shrine for the Fox Parade. This event is a delightful display of traditional Japanese culture, complete with fox masks and vibrant costumes[1].
- **New Year at Tokyo's Gardens**: For a more serene experience, visit one of Tokyo's beautiful gardens such as Rikugien, Koishikawa Korakuen, or Kiyosumi Gardens. These gardens are adorned with traditional decorations, offering a peaceful escape from the city's hustle and bustle[1].

For those interested in something more modern, keep an eye out for the upcoming **Wrestle Kingdom 19** at the Tokyo Dome on January 4, 2025. This premier wrestling event promises high-stakes matches and unforgettable performances[1].

In local news, several attractions and restaurants are back to their regular schedules after the New Year's break. However, it's worth noting that some places might still have limited hours, so it's a good idea to check ahead of time. For instance, if you're looking for dining options, Universal City Walk in Osaka (though not in Tokyo, but relevant for travelers) has many restaurants and shops open, but be prepared for crowds[3].

For must-do activities today, consider taking a stroll through the beautifully decorated gardens or exploring the city's vibrant neighborhoods like Harajuku or Shibuya. If you're looking for something unique, take a free walking tour to discover hidden gems and local stories that you might otherwise miss[4].

Here’s a local tip: When navigating Tokyo, make sure to use the efficient public transit system, but also consider downloading a map app like Maps.me to use offline, especially since WiFi hotspots can be invaluable for unlimited data access[4].

As we wrap up today's adventures, keep an eye out for tomorrow's events. Tokyo Skytree will continue its special New Year’s lighting and events, and you might even catch a glimpse of Sorakara-chan in a dazzling New Year’s kimono. Stay tuned for more exciting activities and events in this dynamic city!

Until next time, enjoy the festive spirit of Tokyo and make the most of your time in this incredible city