Senso-ji Temple Hagoita Fair 2026

About this event

The Toshi-no-Ichi (Hagoita Fair), held within the grounds of Senso-ji Temple in Taito-ku, Tokyo, is a year-end tradition dating back to the Edo period. In ancient times, it began with the sale of New Year goods and lucky charms, and around 1950 (Showa 25), it became established as a year-end tradition under the name 'Hagoita Fair'. Dozens of hagoita paddle stalls line the venue, selling a wide variety of works ranging from Edo-atmosphere Kabuki motifs to novelty decorative hagoita themed on trending social satires, current events, and popular celebrities. The banter and interaction between stall owners and customers is another charming aspect that delights visitors. The event is held for three days from December 17 to 19, with December 18 in particular bustling with numerous worshippers for 'Osame no Kannon' (Year's Final Kannon Service). Colorful, beautiful shuttlecock feathers and lucky oval gold coins blessed for New Year's fortune are also distributed. Traditional Oshie Hagoita paddles are crafted three-dimensionally by putting cotton inside cloth, bringing depth to faces and costumes, and pieces featuring Kabuki actors evoke Edo culture. Novelty hagoita reflect the social trends of that year, offering a chance to reflect on the past year. Because the shuttlecock feather resembles a dragonfly, hagoita are regarded as lucky charms for warding off evil and praying for sound health, and there is a custom of gifting them particularly to baby girls for their first New Year to wish for healthy growth. By enjoying the fair together with a visit to Senso-ji Temple, you can experience the original meaning of the year-end market to welcome the New Year.

Venue

Senso-ji Temple

2-3-1 Asakusa, Taito-ku, Tokyo 111-0032