Why Tokyo’s Most Famous Crossing Turns Silent on New Year’s Eve

Many travelers visiting Japan during the New Year season imagine a lively countdown party in Tokyo — especially at the world-famous Shibuya Scramble Crossing. However, unlike major cities such as New York or Sydney, Japan doesn’t have a strong culture of large-scale public countdown events.

Instead, most Japanese people celebrate New Year’s Eve quietly with family, or visit shrines and temples for “Hatsumode,” the first shrine visit of the year. It’s a spiritual and peaceful way to welcome the new year, rather than a loud street celebration.

Happy new year in Japan = Hatsumode to shrine or temple

What Happened to the Shibuya Countdown?

Until a few years ago, Shibuya used to be one of the few places in Japan where young people gathered spontaneously to count down to the new year. The area around Hachiko Statue and Shibuya Crossing would fill with thousands of people, creating a festive — and chaotic — atmosphere.

However, after concerns about overcrowding, safety risks, and public disturbances, and later due to COVID-19 restrictions, the Shibuya countdown events were officially suspended.

2024–2025: Continued Restrictions in Shibuya

For the 2024–2025 New Year season, Shibuya Ward has once again announced strict regulations.
Official notices have been posted in Japanese, English, Chinese, and Korean, informing visitors that the “Shibuya Countdown” will not take place.

From 6:00 p.m. on December 31, 2024, to 5:00 a.m. on January 1, 2025:

• The Hachiko Statue area will be closed to the public.
• Drinking alcohol in public spaces such as roads and parks around Shibuya Station is prohibited.
• Convenience stores near the station will stop selling alcohol during this time.

These measures are intended to prevent overcrowding and ensure public safety during the holiday period.

What You Can Do Instead

If you’re in Tokyo during New Year’s Eve, here are some great alternatives:

• 🎍 Visit a shrine such as Meiji Jingu for Hatsumode — an authentic Japanese tradition.
• 🎍 Enjoy a hotel countdown dinner or rooftop party (many luxury hotels host private events).
• 🎍 Watch the Tokyo Tower or Skytree light-ups from a distance.

Final Tip

Even though Shibuya won’t host a countdown, the city is still vibrant and safe to visit during the holidays. Experience how Japan celebrates the new year in its own unique, calm, and spiritual way — a contrast to the wild countdowns found elsewhere in the world.

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Happy new year in Japan = Hatsumode to shrine or temple

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