Toshikoshi Soba
SeasonalKanto(Tokyo)
Annual eventDates
Venue
Sensoji Temple (Asakusa)
Admission
Free
Crowd Level
Low crowdKanto(Tokyo)
Annual eventDates
Venue
Sensoji Temple (Asakusa)
Admission
Free
Crowd Level
Low crowdJapanese festivals (matsuri) are incredible cultural experiences, but they come with their own rules and customs. Learn the etiquette, what to wear, and how to fully enjoy a matsuri.
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New 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.
Toshikoshi Soba takes place from 2026-12-31 to 2026-12-31.
Toshikoshi Soba is held at Sensoji Temple (Asakusa) in Tokyo, Japan.
Yes, Toshikoshi Soba is free to attend.
The admission fee for Toshikoshi Soba is ¥0.
The crowd level at Toshikoshi Soba is typically low.
Yes, Toshikoshi Soba is held annually.
Toshikoshi Soba is a seasonal festival in Japan.
Highlights of Toshikoshi Soba include: 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.
Tips for Toshikoshi Soba: 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..
Toshikoshi Soba welcomes international visitors. It is a great way to experience Japanese culture.
Access information for Toshikoshi Soba: 5-minute walk from Asakusa Station (Tokyo Metro Ginza Line / Toei Asakusa Line).
Comfortable walking shoes are recommended. Tips: 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..
Photography is generally welcome at Toshikoshi Soba. Check specific rules at the venue.
Toshikoshi Soba is a family-friendly festival that visitors of all ages can enjoy.
Festival food stalls (yatai) at Toshikoshi Soba typically serve popular Japanese street food including yakisoba, takoyaki, and kakigori. Some festivals feature regional specialties.
Yes, wearing a yukata (casual kimono) is very common and encouraged at Toshikoshi Soba. Many visitors rent yukata nearby.
Parking can be limited during Toshikoshi Soba. Public transportation is recommended. Check access details: 5-minute walk from Asakusa Station (Tokyo Metro Ginza Line / Toei Asakusa Line).
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
5-minute walk from Asakusa Station (Tokyo Metro Ginza Line / Toei Asakusa Line)
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.
📍 Sensoji Temple (Asakusa)