- Illuminations: December is a great time to see Tokyo’s famous illuminations, such as the Tokyo Christmas Market and the Roppongi Hills Christmas Illumination.
- Winter festivals: There are many winter festivals held in Tokyo in December, such as the Tokyo DisneySea Christmas Fantasy and the Tokyo Tower Christmas Market.
- New Year’s Eve: Tokyo is a great place to celebrate New Year’s Eve, with many events and parties held throughout the city.
- Sales: December is a great time to find sales on clothing, electronics, and other goods in Tokyo.
- Shinto New Year: Many shrines and temples in Tokyo hold special events and ceremonies on New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day.
Weather In Tokyo During December
In December, Tokyo experiences cold weather with occasional light snowfall. Here’s an overview of the typical weather conditions during this time:
Temperature:
- Average high: 52°F (11°C)
- Average low: 37°F (3°C)
- Record high: 73°F (23°C)
- Record low: 18°F (-8°C)
Rainfall and Snowfall:
- Average precipitation: 2.2 inches (56 mm)
- Average snowfall: 2 inches (5 cm)
- Number of rainy days: 8
- Number of snowy days: 3
Humidity:
- Average humidity: 60%
Wind:
- Average wind speed: 10 mph (16 km/h)
Daylight:
- Average daylight hours: 9.5 hours
Overall: December in Tokyo is generally cold, with occasional snowfall. The city experiences relatively dry weather, with low levels of precipitation. The wind can be chilly, so it’s important to dress in layers and stay warm. Despite the cold weather, Tokyo is still a vibrant and exciting city to visit in December, offering a festive atmosphere and many holiday-themed events.
Things To Do In Tokyo In December
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Winter Illuminations: Tokyo comes alive with magical illuminations and light displays during December. Some of the popular illuminations include the Tokyo Midtown Christmas Illumination, Caretta Shiodome’s Illumination, and the Shinjuku Lumina Winter Illumination.
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Tokyo Christmas Markets: Inspired by the traditional European Christmas markets, Tokyo hosts several Christmas markets in different locations across the city. Visitors can find handmade crafts, unique gifts, delicious food, and festive decorations at these markets.
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Christmas Festivals and Concerts: Various Christmas-themed festivals and concerts take place in Tokyo during December. Notable events include the Tokyo Disney Resort Christmas Parade and the Tokyo Christmas Eve Rock Festival.
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New Year’s Eve Countdown Events: Tokyo offers an array of New Year’s Eve celebrations, including the countdown event at Shibuya Crossing, where thousands gather to watch the countdown and see the scramble on the crossing. Tokyo also hosts fireworks displays at various locations to celebrate the new year.
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Visit Sensoji Temple: Sensoji Temple is one of Tokyo’s most important temples and a popular destination during December. Visitors can witness special decorations and events related to the New Year, as well as participate in traditional rituals such as writing wishes on ema (wooden plaques) and purchasing omoide chochin (lantern charms).
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Enjoy the Winter Sports: Tokyo offers opportunities for various winter sports during December. The city has several indoor and outdoor ice skating rinks, and visitors can also go sledding at the Todoroki Valley.
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Hatsumode: Hatsumode is the first shrine visit of the new year, and it is a significant tradition in Japan. Many people visit shrines and temples during the first few days of the new year to pray for good luck and blessings.
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Osechi Ryori and Toshikoshi Soba: During December, families prepare osechi ryori, a traditional Japanese New Year’s feast featuring various dishes with symbolic meanings. People also eat toshikoshi soba, a buckwheat noodle dish, on New Year’s Eve, which is believed to bring good luck.
Tourism In Tokyo, Japan During December
- Winter Illuminations: Tokyo is renowned for its spectacular winter illuminations, which light up the city’s streets, parks, and buildings. Some popular illumination spots include the Tokyo Tower, the Roppongi Hills Mori Tower, and the Tokyo Midtown.
- Christmas Markets: Several Christmas markets are held in Tokyo during December, offering a festive atmosphere and a chance to purchase unique gifts and decorations. Some notable markets include the Tokyo Christmas Market in Hibiya Park and the Marunouchi Christmas Market.
- New Year’s Eve Celebrations: Tokyo’s New Year’s Eve festivities are vibrant and lively, with people gathering at temples and shrines to pray for good fortune in the coming year. The countdown to midnight is a popular event, often accompanied by fireworks displays and live music.
- Hatsumode: Hatsumode is the first shrine or temple visit of the new year, which takes place during the first three days of January. Many people participate in Hatsumode to pray for good luck and blessings in the coming year.
- New Year’s Decorations: Traditional Japanese New Year decorations, such as kadomatsu (pine and bamboo arrangements) and shimekazari (straw ropes with decorations), are displayed in homes and businesses throughout Tokyo.
- Shopping: Tokyo’s shopping scene is vibrant and diverse, with everything from high-end boutiques to traditional markets. During December, many stores offer special sales and promotions, making it an ideal time to find unique gifts and souvenirs.
- Onsen (Hot Springs): Tokyo has several onsen (hot springs), which are popular spots to relax and rejuvenate. Some onsen even offer outdoor baths, allowing visitors to enjoy the winter scenery while soaking in the warm waters.
- Winter Sports: While Tokyo is not typically known for its winter sports, there are a few places where you can enjoy activities like ice skating and skiing. Some popular spots include the Tokyo Dome Ice Rink and the Yomiuriland Ski Dome.