Event Guide · Tokyo & Around

Hagoita-ichi (Battledore Market)

DecemberCentral Tokyo2026: Dec 17 (Thu) – Dec 19 (Sat)
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Overview

Overview

A year-end tradition in which dozens of hagoita (decorative battledore) stalls line the grounds of Senso-ji for three days, December 17–19, timed to Osame no Kannon (December 18), the temple's last fair day of the year. Originating from the "year-end markets" of the Edo period, it features oshie hagoita with padded-cloth portraits of kabuki actors, as well as "kawari hagoita" depicting the year's trends and newsmakers.

Highlights

Highlights

Rows of brilliantly colored oshie hagoita displayed at the stalls, and the lively hand-clapping ceremony the staff perform whenever one is sold. On December 18, Osame no Kannon, you can also enjoy the bustle of worshippers that comes with a temple fair day.

Times

Times

Hagoita-ichi9:00–19:30 (until 19:00 on the final day)

Taito City official information for 2026

Senso-ji Main Hall6:30–17:00

Opening hours from October to March (Senso-ji official). The hagoita stalls stay open after the Main Hall closes

Times can change from year to year. Check the official website for the latest information.

Tips

Tips for travelers

  • ✓Hagoita are good-luck items that express wishes for girls' healthy growth and protection from misfortune. They range from large decorative pieces to palm-sized ones, and you can find small hagoita that make good souvenirs
  • ✓When you buy a hagoita, the stall staff will perform a spirited hand-clapping ceremony. Clap along and enjoy the year-end atmosphere
  • ✓From evening, the hagoita glow under the stall lights and look great in photos. During the day, on the other hand, it's easier to browse at a relaxed pace
  • ✓December 18 is Senso-ji's Osame no Kannon fair day, when there are especially many worshippers
  • ✓Combine it with Nakamise-dori and a walk around Asakusa for a fun half day
Access

Getting there

Nearest stations
  • Asakusa Station (Tokyo Metro Ginza Line, Toei Asakusa Line, Tobu Skytree Line)About 5 min on footFrom Kaminarimon, walk through Nakamise to the Main Hall
  • Asakusa Station (Tsukuba Express)About 5–7 min on foot
From major stations
  • Ueno Station: Tokyo Metro Ginza Line to Asakusa Station (About 5 min)
  • Tokyo Station: JR Yamanote Line to Kanda Station, then transfer to the Tokyo Metro Ginza Line for Asakusa Station (About 20 min)
  • Haneda Airport: Keikyu Line through-service on the Toei Asakusa Line to Asakusa Station (About 45 min)
Extra buses & shuttles
None
IC cards (Suica etc.)
IC cards such as Suica and PASMO can be used on Tokyo Metro, Toei Subway, the Tobu Line, and the Tsukuba Express
Getting back
  • The areas around Kaminarimon and Asakusa Station are crowded with tourists in the evening. If the Ginza Line is busy, use the Toei Asakusa Line or Tsukuba Express stations instead
  • Large hagoita are bulky on the train, so ask the stall how best to carry yours home
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Crowds

Crowds & best timing

Busiest times
December 18 (Osame no Kannon) and weekend afternoons into the evening. In 2026, the 19th is a Saturday
Quieter times
Weekday mornings (around 9:00–11:00)
Time needed
30 minutes to 1 hour to browse the market. 1.5–2 hours including a visit to Senso-ji and a stroll along Nakamise
Weather

Weather & what to wear

Evening temperatures
The JMA normal low for Tokyo in December is around 4–5°C. It gets cold from the evening
What to wear
A winter coat, gloves, and a scarf. You'll be browsing stalls outdoors, so shoes that keep your feet warm are recommended
Rain, snow & typhoons
It's an outdoor market but is held even in the rain. Follow official announcements in severe weather
Where to check for cancellations
Senso-ji (https://www.senso-ji.jp/ , 03-3842-0181), Asakusa Tourism Federation (03-3844-1221)
Etiquette

Local rules & etiquette

  • !At a temple, bow once at the gate and pray quietly with palms together at the Main Hall (unlike at shrines, don't clap)
  • !Ask the staff before photographing hagoita at the stalls. Do not touch the goods without permission
  • !Avoid using selfie sticks and tripods on the crowded grounds. Do not fly drones without permission
  • !Take your trash home or use the designated bins
  • !Taito City bans smoking on the street. Smoke only in designated areas
  • !Public trash bins are rare in Japan. Bring a small bag and take your trash with you.
  • !Smoking while walking is banned in many cities. Use designated smoking areas.
Facilities

Facilities

Toilets
Public toilets are available on and around the Senso-ji grounds. You can also use the toilets at the Asakusa Culture Tourist Information Center near Kaminarimon
Lockers & luggage
Coin lockers are available around Asakusa Station and the Asakusa Culture Tourist Information Center. Only a limited number fit large suitcases
Paying at food stalls
Some hagoita stalls are cash only, so bring cash
ATMs
Convenience store ATMs (Seven Bank, etc.) around Kaminarimon and Asakusa Station
Seven Bank ATMs (inside 7-Eleven stores) usually accept cards issued overseas.
Wheelchairs & strollers
The grounds are relatively flat, but getting around with a wheelchair or stroller takes time when crowded. The quieter morning is recommended
Food

Food

Local favorites
Ningyo-yaki (small filled cakes), age-manju (deep-fried sweet buns), and kibi-dango (millet dumplings) on NakamiseAsakusa's tendon (tempura rice bowl) and monjayaki (savory pan-fried batter)Amazake (sweet rice drink)
Vegetarian & halal
Some restaurants around Asakusa advertise vegetarian, vegan, or halal options. Sweets on Nakamise rarely list ingredients, so ask at the shop
Tours & tickets for this eventPR
Where to Stay · Agoda

Places to Stay near Hagoita-ichi (Battledore Market)PR

Prices and availability are shown on Agoda.

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Last checked: 2026-09-30