Things to do in Tokyo in December 2024

Discover the Magic of Tokyo This Winter

Tokyo is brimming with exciting events and unforgettable experiences this Winter season! Whether you’re an art lover, culture enthusiast, or simply looking for holiday magic, there’s something for everyone. Dive into the enchanting world of bonsai-inspired art, celebrate Japan’s traditional festivals, get lost in the magic of night illuminations, or join the bustling energy of pop culture conventions. Get ready to explore, experience, and create amazing memories this winter with these incredible events!

Yamanote Bonsai: Erica Ward Solo Exhibition

Step into the imaginative world of Erica Ward’s “Yamanote Bonsai” solo exhibition! Experience her stunning bonsai-themed artworks that capture the magic of Tokyo’s Yamanote Line. This unique combination of urban life and natural beauty is sure to leave you inspired. Whether you’re an art lover or just looking for a creative way to spend an afternoon, this is an event you won’t want to miss!

Date: November 20 – December 2

Location: Yoyogi Art Gallery, Harajuku

Time: 11:00 AM – 8:00 PM

Fees: Free

Website: ericawardart.com

Autumn Evening Illumination at Rikugien Gardens

Immerse yourself in the serene beauty of Rikugien Gardens at night. With the stunning autumn foliage glowing under beautiful lights, this event transforms the garden into a magical wonderland. Bring a loved one, take some breathtaking photos, and experience one of Tokyo’s most beautiful gardens in an entirely new light. Don’t miss out on this perfect blend of history and nature!

Date: November 22 – December 4

Location: Rikugien Gardens, Komagome

Time: 6:00 PM – 8:30 PM

Fees: ¥1,000 (advance sales)

Website: tokyo-park.or.jp

Oji Tori-no-Ichi Fair

Looking for good fortune in the upcoming year? Come to the Oji Tori-no-Ichi Fair at Oji Shrine, where you can find kumade—traditional rake-shaped charms that bring in good luck and prosperity. The lively atmosphere, colorful stalls, and festive spirit make this an event full of fun and tradition. Stop by, make a wish for good fortune, and experience the warm local culture.

Date: December 6

Location: Oji Shrine, Kita

Time: 9:00 AM – 11:00 PM

Fees: Free

Website: ojijinja.tokyo.jp

Tokyo Comic Con 2024

Ready to geek out? Join Tokyo Comic Con 2024 for a weekend of non-stop fun! Meet your favorite artists, participate in cosplay contests, explore the latest in movies, anime, comics, and games, and enjoy fascinating panels. Whether you’re an experienced cosplayer or simply love pop culture, Tokyo Comic Con is the ultimate gathering for all things nerdy and cool!

Date: December 6–8

Location: Makuhari Messe, Chiba

Time: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM

Fees: General: ¥4,900; Under 18: ¥1,000; Under 15: ¥500

Website: tokyocomiccon.jp

Tokyo Art Tank Vol. 12: The Winter Exhibition

From December 2nd to December 8th, Gallery Conceal Shibuya will transform into a hub of creativity, celebrating the beauty of winter in Japan through the lens of art and culture. This is more than just an exhibition; it’s a week-long celebration featuring 30 talented Tokyo-based artists who will showcase their spectacular works inspired by the enchanting winter season.

But that’s not all! Each day of the exhibition will be packed with exciting and free art-related events that will engage and inspire attendees. Here’s a sneak peek of what we have planned:

• Yoga and Art Class: A unique fusion of wellness and creativity!
• Painting Workshop: Unleash your inner artist and create your masterpiece.
• Open Mic Poetry Reading: A platform for voices and stories to flourish.
• Film Festival: Experience compelling short films that resonate with the winter theme and so much more!

Discover Tokyo’s next generation of talented artists at Tokyo Art Tank Vol. 12! From paintings to sculptures, you’ll get a chance to see creative works across all mediums from emerging artists. Stop by to support these amazing creators and enjoy the vibrant, inspiring atmosphere at Gallery Conceal.

Date: December 8–14

Location: Gallery Conceal, Shibuya

Time: 11:00 AM – 8:00 PM

Fees: Free

Website: Facebook Event

The 47 Rōnin Winter Festival

Be part of history at the 47 Rōnin Winter Festival, a commemorative event honoring the loyalty and bravery of the 47 Rōnin. With ceremonies and traditional performances at Sengakuji Temple, this is a rare opportunity to connect with Japan’s legendary past and witness the timeless tale of loyalty and honor in person. Attendees can witness traditional rituals, participate in ceremonies, and pay respects at the graves of the 47 Ronin.

Date: December 14

Location: Sengakuji Temple, Minato

Time: 11:00 AM – 1:00 PM

Fees: Free

Website: sengakuji.or.jp

Bungu Joshi Haku Stationery Festival

Calling all stationery lovers! Bungu Joshi Haku is here, featuring over 50,000 unique and limited items to explore. Bungu Joshi Haku is an annual stationery expo in Tokyo, celebrating the culture of stationery enthusiasts. The event features a wide array of stationery products, workshops, and exclusive merchandise, serving as a platform for both consumers and creators to connect over a shared passion for stationery. Attendees can discover new products, participate in creative workshops, and meet like-minded individuals. Personalize your notebooks, find rare pens, and get your hands on beautiful stationery products. It’s a dreamland for stationery enthusiasts, so make sure to come and stock up on your favorites!

Date: December 12–15

Location: Tokyo Ryutsu Center, Ota

Time: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM

Fees: ¥950 – ¥1,050

Website: bungujoshi.com

Sensōji Temple Hagoita-Ichi Fair

Take a trip to Sensō-ji Temple for the Hagoita-Ichi Fair, where you can browse through beautifully decorated wooden paddles (hagoita) that are believed to bring good luck. The festive energy of Asakusa combined with traditional crafts makes this fair a must-visit for a cultural experience that’s as colorful as it is charming!

Date: December 17–19

Location: Sensō-ji Temple, Asakusa

Time: 9:00 AM – 9:00 PM

Fees: Free

Website: senso-ji.jp

Jump Festa 2024

Celebrate your favorite manga and anime series at Jump Festa 2025! Jump Festa is an annual event organized by Shueisha, celebrating popular manga and anime series featured in their Jump magazines. Get exclusive merchandise, participate in fun activities, and watch exciting stage events featuring beloved Jump characters. Don’t miss this chance to connect with other fans and immerse yourself in the world of Jump comics! Admission to Jump Festa is free, but attendees are required to register in advance to obtain entry tickets. Given the event’s popularity, it’s advisable to secure tickets early and plan accommodations accordingly. For detailed information on schedules, featured series, and ticketing, visitors should refer to the official Jump Festa website.

Date: December 21–22

Location: Makuhari Messe, Chiba

Time: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM

Fees: Free (Advance registration required)

Website: Jump Festa

Odaiba Rainbow Fireworks

Brighten your December weekends by watching the spectacular Odaiba Rainbow Fireworks! Odaiba offers numerous vantage points to enjoy the fireworks, including the decks of shopping malls, seaside parks, and the iconic Rainbow Bridge. Visitors can also take advantage of special cruises that provide an up-close view from the water. The festive atmosphere is enhanced by nearby attractions, shopping opportunities, and dining options, making it an ideal outing for families, couples, and friends. Every Saturday, the sky above Odaiba will light up in dazzling colors for five magical minutes. Make it a date night, a family outing, or a perfect moment to enjoy the winter breeze and marvel at the fireworks above Tokyo Bay!

Date: December 7, 14, 21, 28

Location: Odaiba Seaside Park

Time: 7:00 PM

Fees: Free

Website: tokyo-odaiba.net

Winter Comiket

Step into the vibrant world of fan-made manga, anime, and games at Winter Comiket! Comic Market, commonly known as Comiket, is the world’s largest doujinshi (self-published works) fair, held biannually in Tokyo. As the world’s largest self-published comic book fair, Winter Comiket is the ultimate paradise for pop culture lovers. Get ready to meet passionate creators, explore unique works, and dive into fandoms you love! Cosplay is a significant aspect of Comiket, with designated areas for participants to showcase their costumes.

Date: December 29–30

Location: Tokyo Big Sight, Ariake

Time: 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM

Fees: ¥5,000 (Advance ticket)

Website: Comiket Official Website

Countdown Japan 24/25

Ring in the New Year in style at Countdown Japan 24/25—the biggest year-end music festival in Japan! Dance to your favorite tunes, watch electrifying performances from some of Japan’s top artists, and soak up the high-energy atmosphere. Celebrate with thousands of music fans as you countdown to 2025 at this unforgettable event!

Date: December 28–31

Location: Makuhari Messe, Chiba

Time: 3:00 PM – 9:00 PM

Fees: ¥12,000 – ¥15,000 per day

Website: Countdown Japan

Enjoy the Season to the Fullest with Christmas Markets!

Tokyo Christmas Market

Date: November 23 – December 25, 2024

Location: Meiji Jingu Gaien, Shinjuku

Website: Tokyo Christmas Market

Roppongi Hills Christmas Market

Date: November 23 – December 25, 2024

Location: O-Yane Plaza, Roppongi Hills

Website: Roppongi Christmas Market Guide

Tokyo Skytree Town Dream Christmas

Date: November 7 – December 25, 2024

Location: Tokyo Skytree Town, Oshiage

Website: Tokyo Skytree

Azabudai Hills Christmas Market

Date: November 23 – December 25, 2024

Location: Azabudai Hills Central Square, Minato

Website: Azabudai Hills

Blue Cave Xmas Market

Date: TBC (Expected late November to December)

Location: Yoyogi Park, Shibuya

Website: Blue Cave on Shibuya Keyaki Street

Tokyo Dome City Christmas Market

Date: TBC (Expected late November to December)

Location: LaQua Garden, Tokyo Dome City, Bunkyo

Website: Tokyo Dome City

Tokyo has an exciting mix of cultural events, festivals, concerts, and exhibitions this winter that you simply can’t miss! From the beauty of garden illuminations and traditional festivals to the excitement of Comic Con and Jump Festa, there’s something for everyone. So gather your friends, plan your weekends, and make the most of these amazing experiences! Winter is here, and Tokyo is waiting for you to explore and enjoy it all! Also, don’t forget the Christmas-themed events happening around Tokyo too!

Feature photo credit: Pakpoom Phummee

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