Why Japan is Which Country is Best for the New Year
Choosing which country is best for the New Year depends on what you seek. Japan offers a profound experience, moving from the neon chaos of Shibuya to the serene chants of Buddhist temples at midnight.
This 5-day itinerary explores Tokyo and Kyoto, proving why Japan is which country is best for the New Year. You'll eat 'toshikoshi soba' for longevity and visit shrines for 'hatsumode', the first prayer of the year.
Your 5-Day Japan New Year Itinerary
Discover why Japan is which country is best for the New Year with this blend of neon and zen.
Day 1: Dec 29: Tokyo Arrival & Neon
Dive into the electric energy of the capital.
Shibuya Crossing
The World's Busiest
A scramble crossing surrounded by giant screens and neon signs. It's the pulse of modern Tokyo.
Why You Should Visit:
Feeling the crowd's energy confirms Japan as which country is best for the New Year for excitement. It's iconic and overwhelming in the best way.
24/7
JR to Shibuya
1 hour
How to Reach:
Hachiko Exit of Shibuya Station.
Insider Tip:
View it from the Mag's Park rooftop for the best photo op.
Omoide Yokocho
Memory Lane
Narrow alleyway packed with tiny yakitori stalls and lantern light.
Why You Should Visit:
Experience 'old Tokyo' dining atmosphere. The smoky aroma and tight spaces are unforgettable.
5:00 PM - Late
Walk from Shinjuku
2 hours
How to Reach:
West Exit of Shinjuku Station.
Insider Tip:
Don't be afraid to sit next to locals; it's part of the charm.
Day 1 Dining: Yakitori & Ramen
Warm up with classic comfort food.
Ichiran Ramen
Famous tonkotsu noodle booths.
Torikizoku
Budget-friendly yakitori skewers.
Day 2: Dec 30: Tradition & Tech
Old temples and futuristic art.
Senso-ji Temple
Tokyo's Oldest
A colorful Buddhist temple in Asakusa with a giant lantern gate and shopping street.
Why You Should Visit:
Soak in the pre-New Year preparations. Buying an 'omikuji' (fortune) here is a must.
6:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Metro to Asakusa
2 hours
How to Reach:
Ginza Line to Asakusa.
Insider Tip:
Visit at night when the crowds thin and the pagoda is lit up.
TeamLab Planets
Digital Art Immersion
A museum where you walk through water and crystal lights.
Why You Should Visit:
It shows the modern side of why Japan is which country is best for the New Year. Magical and interactive.
9:00 AM - 10:00 PM
Yurikamome Line to Shin-Toyosu
2 hours
How to Reach:
Minutes from the station.
Insider Tip:
Wear shorts that can roll up; you will be wading in water.
Day 2 Dining: Asakusa Eats
Traditional tempura and street snacks.
Daikokuya Tempura
Famous for black tendon bowls.
Nakamise Street
Freshly made ningyo-yaki cakes.
Day 3: Dec 31: The Countdown
Noodles and bells for NYE.
Zojo-ji Temple
Tokyo Tower View
A major temple sitting right beneath the illuminated Tokyo Tower.
Why You Should Visit:
Watch the 'Joya-no-kane' (bell ringing) ceremony with Tokyo Tower in the background. It answers which country is best for the New Year for atmosphere.
All night
Metro to Onarimon
Late night
How to Reach:
Short walk from Onarimon or Daimon stations.
Insider Tip:
Arrive by 10 PM to get a good spot. Burn incense for luck.
Day 3 Dining: Toshikoshi Soba
Year-crossing noodles for long life.
Kanda Yabu Soba
Historic soba house.
Honmura An
upscale handmade noodles in Roppongi.
Day 4: Jan 1: Kyoto Hatsumode
First prayers in the ancient capital.
Fushimi Inari Shrine
Thousand Torii Gates
Mountain path lined with thousands of bright orange gates.
Why You Should Visit:
Doing 'hatsumode' (first shrine visit) here is magical. Join the crowds praying for prosperity.
24/7
Train to Inari
3 hours
How to Reach:
JR Nara Line from Kyoto Station.
Insider Tip:
Hike further up the mountain to escape the dense crowds at the base.
Gion District
Geisha District
Historic street with wooden machiya houses and tea shops.
Why You Should Visit:
Walk through history on New Year's Day. Spotting a Geiko is good luck!
All day
Bus from Station
2 hours
How to Reach:
Bus 100 or 206 from Kyoto Station.
Insider Tip:
Visit Yasaka Shrine nearby for festive food stalls.
Day 4 Dining: Osechi Ryori
Traditional New Year foods.
Gion Karyo
Kaiseki dining experience.
Nishiki Market
Though many shops close, some stalls offer festive bites.
Day 5: Jan 2: Imperial Calm
Gardens and reflections before departure.
Kinkaku-ji
Golden Pavilion
Zen temple covered in gold leaf overlooking a pond.
Why You Should Visit:
The reflection in the winter light is stunning. A peaceful end to your trip.
9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Bus to Kinkakuji-michi
1 hour
How to Reach:
Bus 101 or 205 from Kyoto Station.
Insider Tip:
Go right at opening to bask in the morning quiet.
Day 5 Dining: Matcha & Sweets
Farewell tea ceremony.
Ippodo Tea Co.
Best matcha in Kyoto.
Kagizen Yoshifusa
Traditional kuzukiri desserts.