Shōgatsu (New Year's) in Tokyo used to be a time just for quiet reflection, but now celebrants have many more choices – from visiting a temple or shrine for the Hatsumode spiritual pilgrimage to partying at midnight with a countdown at Shibuya Crossing or a hip night club or theme park. This is in addition to slurping toshikoshi “year-end” soba noodles on New Year’s Eve, observing the Hatsuhinode (first sunrise) from a high point on New Year’s morning, and eating osechi ryori and other holiday foods on New Year’s Day. It's an exciting time indeed to visit Toyko!  keep reading

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