JANUARY | NEW YEAR GREETING OF THE IMPERIAL FAMILY

Every new years holiday, typically on January 2nd, the Imperial Family comes out on the long hall of Chowaden Hall and greets visitors. Over the course of this event, the family makes five appearances in the span of 5 hours and offers a few words for the public.

This event is widely popular in Tokyo and usually attracts thousands of people every year (2020 attracted about 68,000). It starts at 9:30 am and is held at the Imperial Palace. For organization the Nijubashi gate is used as the entrance. It is recommended to arrive early to get past security and massive crowds - it can take up to hours to get in. Here are the following times that the Imperial Family makes appearances:

First Appearance: Around 10:10 a.m.

Second Appearance: Around 11:00 a.m.

Third Appearance: Around 11:50 a.m.

Fourth Appearance: Around 1:30 p.m.

Fifth Appearance: Around 2:20 p.m.

Entrance fee: Free

Photo credit: Japanistry

Location: 1-1 Chiyoda, Chiyoda City, Tokyo 100-8111, Imperial Palace

Hours: 9:30am - 2:10pm

Website: https://www.kunaicho.go.jp/e-event/sanga01.html

How to get there: A 15 minute walk from Tokyo Station.