Introduction
Hello! I’m Ken, editor-in-chief of Tokyo Insider Guide.
Welcome to 2026! As we reach the middle of January and the initial New Year rush settles down, Tokyo enters a season favored by those in the know—a time to truly savor “Edo traditions” and “winter charm.”
In this article, I’ve handpicked 5 “must-visit” events in Tokyo for the latter half of January that I highly recommend.
Plus, this is a double-feature special guide that also includes a “Major Event List” to help you plan your stay. Let’s enjoy winter in Tokyo to the fullest!
Ken’s TIP: January is the coldest month of the year. Night outings can be particularly chilly. Check our “Complete Tokyo Illumination Guide” and make sure to dress warmly!
【Ken’s Choice】My Top 5 Recommended Events This Month
I’ve selected five events from mid to late January that offer exceptionally high experience value.
1. 【National Sport】Grand Sumo January Tournament (Hatsu Basho)
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- Overview: The first tournament of the year held at the Ryogoku Kokugikan, the mecca of Sumo. Experience the overwhelming power of wrestlers colliding and the unique atmosphere of this ancient national sport.
- Ken’s Point: Eating the venue’s famous “Yakitori” and “Chanko-nabe” (sumo stew) is part of the experience. The scenery of Kokugikan with colorful wrestlers’ banners is a quintessentially Japanese photo spot.
- Period: January 11 – January 25
- Location: Ryogoku Kokugikan
2. 【Tradition】Setagaya Boro-ichi (Flea Market)
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- Overview: Boasting over 440 years of history, this is one of Tokyo’s largest traditional flea markets. Around 700 stalls line the streets, selling everything from antiques to everyday household items.
- Ken’s Point: The famous “Daikan-mochi” (freshly pounded rice cakes) are so popular there’s always a long line. This rare event occurs only twice a year (December and January) for a total of four days, so don’t miss this chance to feel old Tokyo’s energy.
- Period: January 15 & 16
- Location: Near Boro-ichi Street, Setagaya Ward
3. 【Culture】Kanda Myojin Daikoku Festival
- Overview: A New Year festival held at Kanda Myojin, the guardian shrine of Edo (old Tokyo). Priests dressed as “Daikoku-sama” (the deity of wealth) shake a mallet over visitors’ heads to bestow good fortune.
- Ken’s Point: You can watch traditional Japanese performing arts like Kagura music and Lion Dances (Shishimai) up close. Witnessing such authentic rituals just a short distance from Akihabara is a unique Tokyo experience.
- Period: Mid-January (Weekend)
- Location: Kanda Myojin Shrine
4. 【Winter Scenery】Ueno Toshogu Winter Peony
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- Overview: A highly evocative spot where you can admire peony flowers wrapped in protective straw covers called “warabocchi” to shield them from the harsh winter cold.
- Ken’s Point: These large blossoms protected by snow-guard straw are truly an art of winter Tokyo. Located within Ueno Park, this makes for a sophisticated adult stroll that can be combined with visits to museums or the zoo.
- Period: January 1 – Late February
- Location: Ueno Toshogu Peony Garden
5. 【Luck】Uso-kae Ritual at Kameido Tenjin Shrine
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- Overview: A traditional ritual to “exchange lies for truth” by receiving a wooden Bullfinch (Uso) bird carving, meant to turn previous misfortunes into good luck for the coming year.
- Ken’s Point: Limited to January 24th and 25th. Since early plum blossoms start blooming at Kameido Tenjin around this time, it’s a special experience where you can feel the signs of spring in the crisp winter air.
- Period: January 24 & 25
- Location: Kameido Tenjin Shrine
【Major Event List】Tokyo Event Calendar: January 2026
Besides the top picks, there are still many other exciting spots and activities in late January.
- Winter Clearance Sales: The last chance to get winter items at a discount in major department stores in Shinjuku and Ginza. (Peak until mid-January)
- Tokyo Dome City Illumination: A unique light display with a “Japanese” theme. January is relatively uncrowded, making it ideal for photography. (Continues through the end of February)
- Outdoor Ice Skating: At locations like Tokyo Midtown or Futako-Tamagawa Rise. Enjoy winter sports right in the heart of the city. (Continues through February)
Ken’s Final Advice
- Dress for the Cold: While January in Tokyo is often sunny, temperatures can drop to near freezing in the mornings and evenings due to radiative cooling. Watching sumo or visiting shrines can be chilly, so don’t forget thick socks and heat pads (kairo)!
- Prepare for Crowds: Events like Setagaya Boro-ichi and Uso-kae draw long lines for limited items. You’ll be waiting in the cold, so bringing a warm drink will be very helpful.
Summary
Late January in Tokyo is a wonderful opportunity to experience traditional Japanese aesthetics and the energy of a powerful national sport. Don’t let the cold stop you—enjoy the unique experiences only available during this season!
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