Visiting Japan during the New Year
 

I heard that many shops tend to be close over the New Year.

I am transiting through Tokyo on my way home to the USA in January. I am arriving in NRT mid afternoon on Jan 1, then flying out late at night from HND on Jan 3. (The stopover reduced the price of my ticket!)

I usually prefer to stay at the Intercontinental (IC) Yokohama, but thinking of perhaps staying at IC Tokyo Bay this time.

Any suggestions for the three day visit?

This is very true -- we spend most new years here in Tokyo. However, there is plenty to do based on what you like -- living here makes it easier as you know the local places that are open -- what are you looking to do for a few days?

Mostly to eat and shop! LOL I do not suppose any city tour is open at that time.

If I stay in Yokohama (since my departure airport is HND), I am thinking of dropping by the Outlet and perhaps Uniqlo Park. Not sure if they will be open. Not sure if I should just stay closer to downtown Tokyo to be nearer restaurants?

I’d say it is very probable that the Mitsui Outlet Park at Yokohama Bayside will be open throughout your visit (with the caveat that the opening hours might be shorter). I’m more dubious about Muji being open on the 1st, I could be wrong but I feel that it doesn’t fit with the brand’s culture (Muji Hotel, of course, being the exception).

If you want a day trip and don’t mind crowds, there will be a lot of people going up to Mount Takao. The popularity of this mountain during this time does mean there will be plenty of atmosphere and more food stalls than usual. But do look at the weather forecast closely, weather can change abruptly when you are up there.

Just found this article which gives details
https://tokyocheapo.com/events/geiko...ears-festival/

I have religious reasons to visit Meiji Jingu on New Year. We do go to Takao San also, but a few days later when it’s rather quieter.

Mitsui Outlet Park where Uniqlo Park is located was open this past New Years, Jan. 1-3, 2024. Cannot say for sure for Jan. 1-3, 2025 but I think good chance it will be open next New Years.

There are places open on Jan. 1-3 and there are places close on Jan. 1-3. People are off from both school and work on Jan, 1-3, so places which are open on Jan. 1-3 tend to be busy due to people looking for things to do during time off.

Same can be said for restaurants. Also, both produce market and fish market at Toyosu is closed on Jan. 1-4, and restaurants may decide to close during New Years because due to lack of fresh ingredients from the market. So even if you find a sushi restaurant open during your stay on Jan, 1-3, you can bet the fish is frozen, not freshly caught delivered from the market in the morning.

Most shopping is closed on Jan 1st, but plenty of places will still be open.

Most of Odaiba is open on Jan 1st (I'm personally no longer a fan of Odaiba, but...).
Soramachi complex at Sky Tree should be open on Jan 1st.
Typically all Seibu-related stores (Sogo, Pepe, Emios) have been open on Jan 1st.

There is not much in the immediate vicinity of the IC Tokyo Bay, and it is not the most inspirational high-end hotel. But it is fairly convenient to HND, and you can also take the river boat ("suijou bus") back from Asakusa to right near the hotel.

With 2hrs 20mins layover at KIX, there's a good chance that you could exchange your JR voucher there. Check your luggage for your domestic flight and head to the station - about five minutes walk from the terminal. If the line is short, you could get it done. Keep an eye on the time and aim to go through security for the domestic flight about 30 minutes before scheduled departure time.