Tokyo's Traditional Year-End Markets: Senso-ji's Hagoita-ichi (Dec 17–19) and Setagaya Boro-ichi (Dec 15–16)
Published: 2026-10-15
As the year winds down, Tokyo holds traditional markets dating back to the Edo period: Senso-ji's Hagoita-ichi, glittering with kabuki-themed battledores, and the Setagaya Boro-ichi, with over 400 years of history. Here are the dates and how to enjoy them.
The short answer
| Hagoita-ichi (Senso-ji) | Setagaya Boro-ichi | |
|---|---|---|
| Dates | December 17–19 every year (Thu–Sat in 2026) | December 15–16 every year, plus January 15–16 (Tue–Wed in December 2026) |
| Where | Senso-ji temple grounds | Boro-ichi Street and around, Setagaya |
| Hours | Usually morning to evening (check official info for the latest) | Usually about 9:00 to 20:00 |
| Access | A short walk from Asakusa Station (Tokyo Metro and Toei Asakusa Line) | Kamimachi or Setagaya Station (Tokyu Setagaya Line) |
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Both are free to enter, and full of old-Tokyo year-end atmosphere.
Senso-ji's Hagoita-ichi
Colorful battledoresRows of ornate hagoita (decorative paddles) featuring kabuki actors and more.🎍
New Year good luckHagoita are said to bat away bad luck, so many people buy one at the end of the year.⛩️
A Senso-ji traditionHeld every December 17–19, timed with the temple's last Kannon fair of the year.- It's fun just to look. Ask the stall holder before taking photos.
- To combine it with sightseeing, see our Asakusa page.
Setagaya Boro-ichi
Boro-ichi StreetStalls line both sides of the street under paper lanterns, a classic year-end scene.- A market with over 400 years of history, said to draw about 200,000 people a day.
- Countless stalls sell secondhand clothes, antiques, old tools, food and more.
- The famous treat is freshly pounded daikan-mochi rice cakes, with long lines.
- There's no parking, so come by train or bus. The nearest stations are Kamimachi and Setagaya on the Tokyu Setagaya Line.
Tips
- Bring cash. Stalls are mostly cash only.
- Daytime is easiest for browsing. It gets very crowded in the evening.
- December nights are cold, so dress warmly.
Frequently asked questions
When is Hagoita-ichi in 2026?
December 17 (Thu) to 19 (Sat), 2026. It's held on the same dates every year.
When is the Setagaya Boro-ichi?
Every year on December 15–16 and January 15–16. In December 2026 it falls on Tuesday and Wednesday.
Is there an entry fee?
No, both are free.
Do I have to buy a hagoita?
Not at all; it's fun just to look. Small hagoita are popular souvenirs.
Official websites
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Hours, prices and rules can change. Check the official websites for the latest before you go.
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