Tokyo’s Top 5 Hatsumode Destinations 2025
Your Guide to New Year’s Shrine Visits
As the New Year approaches, millions of visitors flock to Tokyo’s shrines and temples for Hatsumode, the traditional first shrine visit of the year. Each location offers its own unique blend of spiritual significance, cultural experiences, and festive atmosphere. Here are the top 5 destinations that showcase the best of this cherished tradition.
Meiji Shrine (Meiji Jingu)
Located in the heart of Tokyo, Meiji Shrine welcomes over 3 million visitors during the New Year period, making it the city’s most popular Hatsumode destination. A majestic forest path leads to the shrine, creating a serene atmosphere despite being in the center of the metropolis.
What to expect:
– A towering torii gate marking the entrance to a peaceful forest walk
– Special New Year’s amulets and fortunes
– Traditional food stalls along the approach
– Nighttime illuminations creating a mystical atmosphere
Best visiting time: Between 2-4 AM on January 1st for fewer crowds, or early morning (6-7 AM) on January 2nd or 3rd.
Sensoji Temple
As Tokyo’s oldest Buddhist temple, Sensoji offers a quintessential downtown Tokyo New Year’s experience. The vibrant Nakamise shopping street leading to the temple transforms into a festive marketplace during Hatsumode.
Highlights:
– Iconic Kaminarimon Gate photo opportunities
– Special New Year’s Eve bell-ringing ceremony
– Extensive food stalls and traditional snacks
– Stunning illuminations of the five-story pagoda
Best time to visit: After 3 PM on January 1st to avoid peak crowds.
Hie Shrine
Nestled in the business district of Akasaka, Hie Shrine is famous for its striking red bridge and steep stone steps. Popular among business professionals, it’s known for blessings related to career success and prosperity.
Special features:
– Business success amulets
– Spectacular city views
– Traditional monkey statues (the shrine’s guardians)
– Beautiful night illuminations
Best visiting time: Early morning (6-7 AM) for business professionals.
Tokyo Daijingu Shrine
Known as “Tokyo’s Ise Shrine,” this shrine is especially popular among young people seeking blessings for relationships and marriage. During Hatsumode, it offers special love-fortune telling and relationship-focused amulets.
Notable aspects:
– Love-matching ceremonies
– Special relationship-focused prayers
– Beautiful garden perfect for couples
– Modern approach to traditional practices
The best time to visit: Evening hours for romantic atmosphere, particularly after sunset.
Kanda Myojin Shrine
Uniquely positioned near Akihabara, Kanda Myojin perfectly blends traditional spirituality with modern technology. It’s particularly popular among IT professionals and anime fans.
Modern touches:
– Digital art projections
– Tech-industry success amulets
– Electronic payment options for offerings
– Special prayers for business success in IT
Best visiting time: After work hours (6-8 PM) for tech professionals.
Practical Tips:
– All locations are accessible 24 hours during January 1-3
– Bring cash for offerings and amulets
– Wear comfortable walking shoes
– Check weather forecasts as queues are often outdoors
– Consider visiting smaller local shrines for a more intimate experience
The tradition of Hatsumode beautifully combines spiritual practices with cultural celebrations, offering visitors a unique glimpse into Japanese customs while providing a meaningful way to start the new year. Whether you’re seeking blessings for business, relationships, or general good fortune, these five locations offer something special for everyone’s New Year wishes.
