Toshikoshi Soba
SeasonalKanto(Tokyo)
Annual eventDates
2026-12-31
Venue
Sensoji Temple (Asakusa)
Admission
Free
Crowd Level
Low crowdNew Year's Eve tradition of eating buckwheat noodles for longevity.
Toshikoshi Soba is the beloved Japanese tradition of eating buckwheat noodles on New Year's Eve to symbolize longevity and letting go of the old year's hardships. While practiced in homes nationwide, the area around Sensoji Temple in Asakusa is famous for its soba restaurants where visitors enjoy the tradition before the midnight temple bells. The long thin noodles represent long life, and their easy breakability symbolizes cutting ties with the past year's troubles.
Highlights
Eating soba noodles before midnight for good luck and longevity; Joya no Kane — 108 temple bell strikes at midnight; Festive atmosphere transitioning from year-end to New Year
Access
5-minute walk from Asakusa Station (Tokyo Metro Ginza Line / Toei Asakusa Line)
Tips for Visitors
Reserve a table at popular soba restaurants in advance, or buy fresh soba from department store food halls to cook at home. Head to a nearby temple after eating to hear the joya no kane bells at midnight.