-
December 17, 2025 at 9:00 am
Event date:
-
December 19, 2025 at 4:00 pm
Event end:
The Hagoita-Ichi Fair is a vibrant, centuries-old year-end tradition held annually at Sensō-ji Temple in Tokyo’s historic Asakusa district. Taking place from December 17 to 19, 2025, the event celebrates Japanese culture and the approach of the New Year by selling decorative hagoita paddles, which are both lucky charms and beautiful works of folk art.
Are you Visiting Japan soon?
Let us make your trip effortless. From tickets and hotels to transport and local guides, we arrange everything for you or your group. Whether it’s a music festival in Tokyo or a business conference in Osaka, our custom travel service ensures you enjoy the event stress-free.
Contact Jasumo Now →What Is the Hagoita-Ichi Fair?
The festival centers around the sale of hagoita — ornamental wooden paddles originally used in the traditional New Year’s game of hanetsuki, a badminton-like sport. These paddles, typically made from Japanese cedar, are elaborately decorated on one side with lacquer, embroidery, or painted images.
Traditionally, hagoita feature portraits of famous kabuki actors, but the modern versions sold at the fair also include decorations of popular TV stars, athletes, anime characters, and other contemporary icons. The size of the paddles varies widely — from small handheld pieces to impressively large ones nearly two meters tall.
The fair itself is lively and festive, with about 50 open-air stalls lined up in front of Sensō-ji’s main hall. A charming local custom is the rhythmic clapping exchanged between buyers and sellers when a purchase is made, creating a joyful atmosphere.
Historical and Cultural Significance
The Hagoita-Ichi tradition dates back to the Edo period (1603–1867) and has been held at Sensō-ji for centuries. The hagoita are more than just decorative paddles — they are symbolic good luck charms meant to ward off evil spirits and bring health and happiness, especially for young girls. For this reason, they are commonly gifted during the New Year season.
The fair also coincides with the Osame-no-Kannon Goennichi, a sacred day dedicated to Kannon, the Goddess of Mercy, adding spiritual importance to the event. Visitors can enjoy both the commercial and religious aspects of this festive occasion.
Event Details
- Dates: December 17–19, 2025
- Time: 9:00 AM – 8:00 PM
- Location: Sensō-ji Temple, 2-3-1 Asakusa, Taito City, Tokyo
- Admission: Free
- Access: About a 10-minute walk from Asakusa Station (Tokyo Metro Ginza Line, Toei Asakusa Line, Tokyo Skytree Line)
Shopping and Festival Experience
Visitors can browse a stunning variety of hagoita paddles ranging from affordable souvenirs priced around ¥2,000 to elaborate artisan pieces with higher price tags. Many of the hagoita sold are handcrafted in Kasukabe, a city near Tokyo known for its traditional paddle craftsmanship.
Aside from shopping, the fair offers a lively, bustling atmosphere full of seasonal cheer. The clapping ritual between vendors and customers enhances the sense of community and celebration.
Tips for Visitors
- Arrive Early: The fair is popular, especially on weekends, so arriving early will help you avoid crowds and enjoy a more relaxed visit.
- Dress Warmly: December in Tokyo is usually cool and crisp; layering is recommended to stay comfortable outdoors.
- Participate Respectfully: Feel free to engage with vendors and soak up the festive mood, but always be polite and observe local customs.
- Nearby Attractions: Make the most of your visit by exploring nearby highlights like the iconic Kaminarimon Gate, the bustling Nakamise Shopping Street, and the panoramic views from the Tokyo Skytree, all easily reachable on foot.
- Photography: Taking photos is welcome, but please be mindful of others and any signs restricting photography in certain areas.
Additional Information
- Sensō-ji Temple’s main hall is open daily from 6:00 AM to 5:00 PM (6:30 AM – 5:00 PM during October to March).
- For inquiries, contact the temple office at 03-3842-0181 (available 9:00 AM to 4:30 PM, except Sundays and public holidays).
- Event schedules or vendors may be subject to change or cancellation; always check official Sensō-ji or Tokyo tourism websites for the latest updates before visiting.
Address & Contact
Sensō-ji Temple
2-3-1 Asakusa, Taito-ku, Tokyo 111-0032
Phone: 03-3842-0181
Website: https://www.senso-ji.jp/annual_event/
Planning a Group Trip to Japan?
From corporate teams to friends traveling together, we create tailor-made travel packages. Enjoy VIP access, curated itineraries, and full support from our local experts. Tell us your plans, and we’ll handle the rest.
Contact Jasumo Now →
Leave a Reply