Japan is set to welcome the New Year with exciting events and promotions across various locations, catering to both locals and tourists alike. From special spa experiences to themed attractions and culinary delights, there’s something for everyone this New Year's season.
At the Hakone Kowakien Yunessun resort, located in Kanagawa Prefecture, visitors can indulge themselves with unique spa events starting January 1, 2025. One of the highlights includes the "Sake Pouring Performance," where Japanese sake—labelled with auspicious white snake designs—will be poured for guests to enjoy and celebrate good fortune. This event coincides with the new year, celebrating the Year of the Snake, symbolizing prosperity and renewal. Other engaging activities include the "Ofuroku Tea Sauna" ritual, where guests experience traditional heating methods with specialty teas during select times throughout January.
Families seeking fun can visit HELLO KITTY SMILE from January 1 to January 31, 2025. There, guests can participate in the engaging "New Year Mission 2025," where they explore five themed areas and collect special stickers by sharing the phrase "Happy New Year" with staff. Completing this mission leads to receiving uniquely-designed towels featuring Hello Kitty, dressed for the New Year, ensuring delightful memories for visitors.
At Series the Sky, elevated above the city on the 31st floor of Tokyo Solamachi, gastronomes can savor premium Chinese dishes during their exclusive New Year event. Running from January 1 to January 3, 2025, the menu boasts selections like A5 Wagyu sandwiches and luxurious shark fin rice, prepared with the finest ingredients. A special giveaway offers guests who enjoy the dinner menu the chance to win tickets for exclusive train rides with breathtaking views of Tokyo.
The Shinagawa Aquarium invites visitors to join its thematic celebration titled "Shinami's New Year 2025" from December 28, 2024, through January 13, 2025. Special exhibitions will highlight the Year of the Snake with live displays featuring sea snakes, along with festive shows featuring seals performing with "omikuji" or fortune slips, creating interactive excitement for attendees.
For those wanting to enjoy winter with comfort, the Chichibu Railway offers "Poka Poka Kotatsu Boat" rides starting January 1, 2025. This unique experience allows guests to relax in heated kotatsu seating as they glide through scenic routes of the Chichibu gorge, surrounded by the tranquil beauty of nature. The railway also offers exclusive early morning rides for catching the first sunrise of the year from the mountain peaks, paired with seasonal delicacies at nearby dining spots.
Across Japan, these events create festive atmospheres, allowing families and friends to celebrate New Year’s traditions with innovative twists. Whether relaxing at hot springs, enjoying themed attractions, or delighting the palate with exquisite cuisine, the opportunities abound to mark the arrival of 2025.
