Happy New Year Tokyo 2026

Governor Koike attended the New Year's Eve countdown event “Happy New Year Tokyo 2026” at the Tokyo Metropolitan Government (TMG) Citizens' Plaza on Wednesday, December 31.

"Japan’s leading artists presented striking performances inspired by Tokyo's tradition and innovation,” she told the crowd, praising the event’s show that featured Japanese virtual, anime and real-life talents, as well as a special projection mapping program using the front of the TMG building.

She recalled that Tokyo has been recently recognized as the world's top tourist destination in Saudi Arabia's “TOURISE AWARDS” and by a major American travel magazine. She added that the capital city has also risen from 3rd to 2nd place in the Global Power City Index.

“The projection mapping on the TMG building has already attracted more than 1.1 million viewers, highlighting the growing appeal of Tokyo's nighttime economy,” Governor Koike said, citing the nightly “TOKYO Night & Light” show that began in February 2024. “As Tokyo aims to become the world’s leading city, we will continue to strengthen and showcase its global appeal.”

When 2026—or the eighth year of the Reiwa era in the Japanese calendar—arrived amid fireworks and cheers, she noted that the figure of eight in Japanese, shaped like an open fan, is an auspicious figure symbolizing growth and prosperity. "I hope for a peaceful world in 2026,” the governor told the crowd.