Shibuya’s New Year’s Eve Cancelled and Tsukiji Market Restricts Tourists for Safety

Published on December 4, 2025

The Tsukiji Outer Market in Tokyo has issued an unusual appeal to tourists asking them to refrain from visiting during the December holiday season. The decision is a preventive measure in response to concerns over overcrowding and potential accidents during the busy year-end shopping rush. The market, a popular destination for both locals and international visitors, typically experiences a significant increase in foot traffic during the last month of the year due to its fresh seafood, traditional Japanese foods, and New Year’s preparations.

With the holiday season approaching, the market’s operators are taking proactive steps to mitigate risks associated with large crowds. Local authorities have also confirmed the cancellation of Shibuya’s New Year’s Eve countdown event for the sixth consecutive year, a decision further underscoring the challenges posed by large public gatherings in the ongoing global context. Both measures reflect Japan’s efforts to balance the revitalization of tourism with public health concerns and safety during peak travel times.

Tsukiji Outer Market’s Visitor Surge and Safety Concerns

The Tsukiji Outer Market has long been a cornerstone of Tokyo’s culinary tourism scene, attracting visitors with its bustling atmosphere and variety of fresh seafood, sushi, and traditional Japanese dishes. Located near the former Tsukiji Fish Market, the Outer Market remains one of Tokyo’s must-visit destinations, drawing both international tourists and local residents seeking the freshest ingredients and unique dining experiences.

However, as December approaches, the market becomes even more crowded due to increased shopping demand for the New Year’s holiday, when many Japanese families purchase special foods for Osechi, a traditional New Year’s feast. With the influx of visitors combined with limited space in the narrow aisles, the market’s management has raised concerns about safety risks, particularly the potential for crowd-related accidents and pedestrian congestion.

In response, market authorities have asked tourists to avoid visiting the market in December to ease congestion and help ensure the safety of both shoppers and vendors. The appeal is a precautionary measure to prevent accidents during a period of heightened activity, especially as Japan continues to navigate post-pandemic tourism dynamics.

Shibuya’s New Year’s Eve Event Cancellation

The cancellation of Shibuya’s New Year’s Eve countdown event adds to the restrictions on large-scale public gatherings in Tokyo. The event, one of the most well-known New Year’s celebrations in Japan, has been a major attraction for both locals and tourists. Typically drawing thousands of people to the vibrant Shibuya district, the event features a countdown, live music, and the famous Shibuya scramble crossing illuminated by festive lights.

However, for the sixth year in a row, Shibuya has decided to forgo the large-scale event due to concerns over crowd management and the potential for health and safety risks. This ongoing cancellation reflects broader trends in Japan’s approach to large public events, which have been scaled back or modified in recent years due to the impacts of global health crises.

Both the Tsukiji Outer Market’s appeal to limit visitors and Shibuya’s decision to cancel its New Year’s Eve event underscore the importance of balancing tourism with safety protocols in a country that is known for both its hospitality and its meticulous attention to public order.

Impact on Tokyo’s Tourism Sector

The decision to limit crowds in popular areas like Tsukiji Outer Market and Shibuya is a part of Japan’s broader strategy to manage tourism flow and mitigate potential disruptions during high-traffic seasons. While tourism has rebounded in the post-pandemic era, Tokyo’s authorities are continuing to adjust to fluctuations in visitor numbers and the ongoing need for health safety.

For visitors looking to explore Tokyo during the holiday season, the cancellation of major public events and restrictions at places like Tsukiji might lead them to seek alternatives. However, Tokyo offers many other attractions that are open and welcoming, including parks, museums, and shopping districts such as Ginza and Omotesando, where tourists can enjoy the city’s unique culture and vibrant urban life without the crowds.

Alternative Experiences for December Travelers

While the restrictions on visiting Tsukiji Outer Market and the cancellation of Shibuya’s New Year’s event might alter plans for some tourists, Tokyo remains a dynamic and exciting city with plenty to offer during the holiday season. Visitors can explore traditional temples like Senso-ji in Asakusa, visit the iconic Tokyo Tower, or enjoy winter illuminations in various parts of the city. Many museums and art galleries offer winter exhibitions that showcase Japan’s rich cultural heritage and contemporary creativity.

Additionally, for those looking for quieter shopping experiences, Tokyo has a wealth of local markets, boutiques, and craft shops outside the major tourist hotspots, where travelers can purchase unique souvenirs and explore more intimate parts of the city.

For food lovers, Ramen Street at Tokyo Station and local sushi restaurants provide an opportunity to experience authentic Japanese cuisine without the crowds that can be found in the busiest areas.

Looking Ahead: The Future of Tourism in Tokyo

As Japan continues to recover from the global health crisis, tourism is expected to grow, but with a focus on sustainable tourism practices that prioritize safety and public health. The measures taken by Tsukiji Outer Market and Shibuya highlight the ongoing efforts to provide a safe, enjoyable experience for visitors while also managing the increasing demand for travel in Tokyo.

In the long run, these initiatives may lead to more structured tourism planning, where crowd control and sustainable tourism are prioritized to ensure the well-being of both visitors and local communities. As Tokyo navigates the challenges of post-pandemic tourism, balancing tourist attraction management with safety protocols will remain crucial to maintaining the city’s standing as a premier global destination.