Hotels near Zojo-ji

Zojo-ji is the main temple of the Jodo school of Buddhism in eastern Japan and was once the family temple of the Tokugawa shoguns. Its red Sangedatsumon gate, rebuilt in 1622, is one of the oldest wooden structures in Tokyo, and Tokyo Tower rises directly behind the main hall. On New Year's Eve the temple rings its great bell for Joya no Kane, the 108 strokes that symbolise casting off the 108 worldly desires before the year turns.

The temple usually holds a countdown to midnight, and Tokyo Tower is often lit with a special display for the new year. Crowds stay for Hatsumode, the first prayer of the year, at the main hall straight after midnight. Earlier in December the grounds are calm, and the rows of small stone Jizo statues in knitted red caps make a quiet, moving sight.

Pro Tip: Arrive by 22:30 on 31 December to get close to the main hall. Major train lines usually run through the night on New Year's Eve, so check the schedule rather than waiting for a taxi.