As 2025 draws to a close, TOKYO SKYTREE, the world’s tallest tower and one of Japan’s most cherished cultural icons, invites travellers to begin the New Year on an extraordinary note that is rooted in tradition, illuminated in celebration and experienced from its observation deck. From December 26, 2025, to January 7, 2026, Tokyo Skytree and Tokyo Skytree Town® will host a series of activities that reflect the warmth, symbolism and spectacle of the Japanese New Year, known locally as Oshogatsu.
For Indian travellers seeking an authentic yet inspiring way to begin the year, the seasonal experiences at Tokyo Skytree Town offer a compelling balance of ritual, joy and memory-making moments.
Tower Lighting and Greetings
As a symbolic content to welcome a new year, Tokyo Skytree will be lit in red and white hues inspired by the Japanese national flag, colours that represent purity, optimism, and celebration. In addition, visitors will witness a ‘Happy New Year’ message projected via laser mapping across the Tembo Deck’s upper facade, offering a heartwarming moment against the expansive Tokyo skyline.
Among the highlights of the celebration are culturally rooted experiences curated for all age groups:
Sumo Encounters at 350 Metres
A rare chance to meet professional sumo wrestlers from Kise Stable in local Sumida Ward at the Tembo Deck. Visitors can pose for commemorative photos and participate in strength challenges, an activity long associated with good fortune in Japanese tradition.
Tembo Deck, Floor 350 | January 1–3, 2026
Shishimai – The Lion Dance Performance
Performed to live music, the traditional lion dance is believed to drive away misfortune and bring prosperity. As part of this centuries-old ritual, the lion “biting” a guest’s head is thought to bless the recipient with wisdom and well-being.
Soramachi Plaza & Tembo Deck, Floor 350 | January 1, 2026
Sorakara-chan New Year Greeting
The tower’s much-loved official character, Sorakara-chan, will appear in a vibrant New Year kimono to greet visitors. Especially popular with families and children, this seasonal interaction brings a touch of festive joy to the deck.
Tembo Deck, Floor 350 | January 1–7, 2026
A Tribute to the Year of the Dragon
In keeping with the zodiac cycle, the 2026 decor will feature motifs inspired by the Year of the Dragon, a symbol of strength, energy and transformation. Dragon-themed displays will be integrated with floral elements and traditional folding fans across Tokyo Skytree and Tokyo Skytree Town, creating a visual narrative that honours the spirit of the new year.
December 26, 2025 – January 7, 2026
Festive Food and Shopping at Tokyo Solamachi
Japan’s Best Foods Nakamise Festival
Making its debut this season, the ‘Tokyo Soramachi Japan’s Best Foods Nakamise Festival’ brings together regional delicacies and time-honoured recipes from across Japan. From Kyoto’s limited-edition curry buns and handmade Oyaki from Nagano to matcha lattes crafted using premium tea from heritage brands, the market will offer visitors a delicious way to embrace the season.
4F Sky Arena | December 29, 2025 – January 12, 202
Lucky Bags – Fukubukuro
A widely loved Japanese New Year tradition, Fukubukuro, or ‘lucky bags,’ will be available at participating Tokyo Solamachi stores. Each bag contains a surprise collection of products curated specially for the festive season, believed to bring good fortune to those who purchase them.
Tokyo Skytree Town offers a uniquely atmospheric way to begin the year, from its panoramic views and zodiac installations to the rituals, greetings and flavours that define Japan’s cultural fabric. For Indian travellers, this is a chance to experience the magic of Tokyo through a lens that is both reflective and festive, elevated, literally and symbolically, above the ordinary.
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