Spectacular Countdown Spots in 5 Major Japanese Cities: Tokyo, Osaka, Kyoto, Fukuoka, Sapporo

As the new year approaches, many travelers planning a trip to Japan may be wondering where to count down and which spots are the best. We've rounded up the most popular countdown spots in major cities like Tokyo, Osaka, Fukuoka, Kyoto, and Sapporo. Every spot on this list draws a crowd and puts on a big show, so you won't be disappointed.

1. Countdown Spots in Tokyo

Tokyo has many countdown venues. The biggest events are usually held at famous landmarks and popular tourist spots, including:

Tokyo Tower : This popular Tokyo landmark stands tall as a symbol of the city. During the countdown period, the tower is beautifully lit up, with live music performances to ring in the New Year.

Shibuya : This famous youth district in the heart of the city hosts a countdown event every year and fills up with huge crowds — perfect if you want a lively city atmosphere.

Kasai Rinkai Park : This park is usually a relaxing spot for locals and tourists, but as the new year approaches, a countdown event is held in front of the Ferris wheel. At night, the wheel and surrounding area are beautifully decorated with lights, along with plenty of entertainment.

2. Countdown Spots in Osaka

This popular tourist city in the Kansai region also has several countdown venues, including:

Osaka Castle : This major Osaka landmark hosts a grand countdown event, blending a historic atmosphere with international flair. The castle is lit up and beautifully decorated. The event runs from 5:30 PM to 1:30 AM, with admission ranging from ¥2,100 to ¥7,500 for standard and premium options.

Universal Studios Japan : If you want a colorful countdown, this is the place. There's a parade featuring the popular Minion characters, plus a fun-filled party atmosphere and a big fireworks display.

3. Countdown Spots in Fukuoka

This coastal city in the northwest of Kyushu has a lively tourist atmosphere, with several interesting countdown spots, including:

Hilton Fukuoka Sea Hawk : This hotel hosts an energetic countdown party with great music, featuring famous Japanese DJs like Masaki and Mai Morii. The hotel's waterfront location adds to the great atmosphere.

Hard Rock Cafe Fukuoka : This countdown party has been a big success in past years, packed full of entertainment and fun activities.

Note: Hard Rock Cafe Fukuoka closed permanently on May 31, 2020.

Space World : This amusement park, once the largest in Kyushu, closed permanently on December 31, 2017, and no longer holds countdown events.

4. Countdown Spots in Kyoto

As a World Heritage city, Kyoto also has its own New Year's Eve traditions, though not the fireworks and party kind. Instead, most people visit temples and shrines to pray and count down to the New Year. The mood is calm and peaceful, though the famous temples and shrines get very crowded. Popular spots include Kiyomizu-dera Temple, also known as the Temple of Pure Water, Heian Shrine, Yasaka Shrine, and Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine.

5. Countdown Spots in Sapporo, Hokkaido

Hokkaido, located in northern Japan, gets bitterly cold in winter and is a great place for skiing. During this season, a grand countdown event is held at Okurayama Ski Jump Stadium, located in the Miyanomori area to the west of Sapporo. The event features many activities, including ski jumps by famous Japanese skiers, a Yosakoi Soran dance performance unique to Hokkaido, kakizome (the first calligraphy of the new year), and a midnight fireworks display. You can also head up the hill to enjoy a night view of Sapporo.