Tokyo’s New Year celebrations offer a captivating blend of Japanese traditions and festive revelry. Visitors can enjoy age-old rituals, such as shrine visits and special food offerings, while the streets come alive with vibrant decorations and enchanting performances. This unique cultural experience promises an unforgettable start to the new year, making it a must-visit destination for those seeking to truly appreciate Japan’s rich heritage. Yet, the true magic lies in the unexpected, as the city’s traditions continue to evolve, inviting exploration and discovery.
Key Points
- Explore three local shrines and experience traditional Japanese cultural performances, including the Oji Fox Pageant, during this immersive 3-hour tour.
- Savor a variety of Japanese cuisine and indulge in a sake tasting session led by a professional sommelier at a cozy izakaya.
- Enjoy a captivating atmosphere with festive activities and culture, suitable for participants aged 13 and above.
- Be prepared for extensive walking and standing, as the tour may not accommodate special needs effectively.
- Consider the overall customer feedback on the organization and communication aspects of the tour before booking.
Activity Overview
The Tokyo: Celebrate Unique Japanese New Year Tradition Festivity activity offers an immersive cultural experience, providing participants with the opportunity to explore three local shrines and indulge in a food tasting experience at a cozy izakaya.
Priced at $98.36 per person, the 3-hour tour is conducted in English and includes a free cancellation policy up to 24 hours in advance.
Highlights include witnessing the Oji Fox Pageant, a traditional Japanese New Year’s Eve celebration, and enjoying a sake tasting session with a professional sommelier.
The activity’s itinerary covers several key stops in the Oji area of Tokyo.
Experience Highlights
Immersing oneself in the Oji Fox Pageant, a traditional Japanese New Year’s Eve celebration, is at the heart of this engaging cultural experience. Visitors explore three local shrines, each with its own unique charm and spiritual significance. At a cozy izakaya, a food tasting experience and sake tasting with a professional sommelier offer a delightful taste of Japanese cuisine and beverages. Throughout the event, guests witness captivating traditional dances, including the powerful lion dance, creating a festive and immersive atmosphere.
| Experience | Duration | Highlights |
|---|---|---|
| Shrine Visits | 20 minutes each | Ōji Inari Shrine, Oji Shrine, Shōzoku Inari-jinja Shrine |
| Food Tasting | 1.5 hours | Izakaya dining, all-you-can-drink alcoholic and soft drinks |
| Sake Tasting | – | 5 kinds of snacks, professional sommelier |
| Traditional Dances | – | Lion dance, Oji Fox Pageant |
Itinerary Details
The tour begins at the north entrance of JR Oji station, where you will embark on a journey through three local shrines over the course of 60 minutes.
Visitors will explore:
- Ōji Inari Shrine for 20 minutes.
- Oji Shrine for 20 minutes.
- Shōzoku Inari-jinja Shrine for 20 minutes.
Following the shrine visits, the group will move to Tori mero for a 1.5-hour food tasting experience.
The final stop is くらしの器王子ヤマワ for a 30-minute viewing of the Oji Fox Pageant, a highlight of the tour.
Not Suitable For
Although this tour offers a unique cultural experience, it may not be suitable for certain travelers. Children under 13 years are not permitted, as the content and late hours may not be appropriate. Individuals with back problems, heart issues, or serious medical conditions are also advised against joining, as the tour involves extensive walking and standing. Plus, wheelchair users may find the tour challenging due to the uneven terrain and lack of accessibility at some locations.
| Not Suitable For | Reason |
|---|---|
| Children under 13 | Inappropriate content and late hours |
| Individuals with medical conditions | Extensive walking and standing |
| Wheelchair users | Uneven terrain and lack of accessibility |
What to Bring
Participants are advised to wear comfortable shoes and bring warm clothing, as the tour involves extensive walking outdoors.
Plus, bringing the following items is recommended:
- A camera to capture the vibrant festivities and traditional dances.
- Cash for any purchases or gratuities during the food tasting experience.
- Tissues or a small towel to have on hand.
- A reusable water bottle to stay hydrated throughout the tour.
Not Allowed
Smoking, flash photography, and bringing alcoholic drinks on the vehicle aren’t allowed during the tour.
These rules are in place to ensure the safety and enjoyment of all participants. The tour guides take the experience seriously and want to maintain the cultural authenticity of the Oji Fox Pageant and shrine visits.
Violating these rules may result in participants being asked to leave the tour without a refund. Guests are expected to be respectful of the traditions and follow the instructions of the tour guides throughout the festivities.
These guidelines help create a seamless and memorable New Year’s experience.
Customer Reviews
Based on the feedback gathered, the tour has received an overall rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 4 reviews.
Participants appreciated the cultural experience and festive atmosphere, with one reviewer describing it as a "truly unique and immersive New Year’s celebration."
However, some travelers were disappointed with issues such as:
- Communication challenges with the guide.
- Concerns about the organization and flow of the event.
- Difficulty finding suitable viewing spots for the Fox Parade.
- Lack of clarity on the tour’s accessibility for those with mobility issues.
Booking Information
To book this unique Japanese New Year’s Eve celebration, visitors can reserve their spot online and pay later to secure their place with no upfront payment.
The activity is priced at $98.36 per person and lasts for 3 hours, with English as the primary language.
The cancellation policy offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. This allows travelers to plan their trip with flexibility.
Booking early is recommended, as spaces may be limited for this festive cultural experience in Tokyo.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks to the Event?
According to the details provided, outside food and drinks are not allowed on this tour. Participants are advised to only bring comfortable shoes, warm clothing, and a camera, as alcoholic beverages and soft drinks are included in the experience.
Is There a Dress Code for the Event?
There is no strict dress code for this event. Visitors are advised to wear comfortable, warm clothing suitable for the winter weather and walking around the shrines. Casual attire is acceptable, as the focus is on experiencing the cultural festivities.
Can I Extend the Duration of the Experience if Needed?
The tour duration is fixed at 3 hours and cannot be extended. However, if you need more time to explore the festivities, you can consider booking a private tour or extending your stay in Tokyo independently.
Are There Any Discounts Available for Senior Citizens or Students?
The activity does not mention any discounts for senior citizens or students. However, guests are advised to inquire with the tour provider about potential promotional offers or discounted rates for those groups.
Will There Be Any Photo Opportunities During the Event?
Yes, there will be plenty of photo opportunities throughout the event. Participants can take pictures at the shrines, during the traditional dances, and while enjoying the sake tasting and food experience.
The Sum Up
Tokyo’s New Year celebrations offer a vibrant blend of tradition and festivity. Visitors can enjoy unique Japanese customs, from visiting shrines for the first prayer of the year to enjoying traditional performances and special food offerings. Local events, like the enchanting Oji Fox Pageant, create an unforgettable cultural experience, making this time of year a magical occasion to celebrate in the city.
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