JANUARY Festivals and Events

A very good reason to come to Japan in January is that there are excellent festivals and events that happen only once a year! January is also a fine time to beat the crowds and price increases that cluster around the high season at cherry blossom time at the end of March and early April.

 Click on Tell me more to read about the event, then use the search term below to find out the exact dates and times for the year you’ll be there.

Midnight Fox Parade

Everyone in the Tokyo neighborhood of Oji gathers on New Year’s Eve at midnight, dressed like foxes, to ring in the new year by with a parade

Tell me more!

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Coming-of-Age Day

On the first Monday in January, all 20-year-olds become legal adults. You’ll see young women in gorgeous kimonos all over town, but especially at the shrines and temples on that day.

Tell me more!

Search terms: Coming of age day, seijinshiki no hi

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January Sumo Tournament

The January tournament runs for two weeks, and is something everyone should see at least once!

Tell me more!

Search term: sumo tournament January

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Setagaya Boroichi Flea Market

The biggest and best flea market in Tokyo happens every year on January 15-16. You can get everything from used kimonos to a home shrine, for bargain prices

Tell me more!

Search term: Setagaya Boroichi

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Tokyo Auto Salon

This sprawling auto show at Makuhari Messe might be the craziest auto show you’ve ever seen. From tricked out cars to booth babes, it’s got it all

Tell me more!

Search term: Tokyo Auto Salon

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Winter Illuminations

In addition to the city illuminations that continue beyond New Year’s, two theme parks are lit up so splendidly it’s well worth the price of admission

Tell me more!

Search terms: Sagamiko Illumillions; Yomiuriland Jewelumination

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You can search for more detailed information on these by Googling the names in bold, or searching for them on Tokyo Cheapo or TimeOut Tokyo, which I think have the most reliable info for events that change dates from year to year.

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Jonelle Patrick writes novels set in Japan, produces the monthly e-magazine Japanagram, and blogs at Only In Japan and The Tokyo Guide I Wish I’d Had

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