Japan’s New Year traditions are truly special. On New Year’s Eve, locals visit shrines and temples to cleanse away the past year’s misfortunes while praying for health, happiness and success in the year ahead. Then, just before dawn on New Year’s Day, many rise early to witness the first sunrise of the year.
If you want to partake in this auspicious tradition on Thursday, January 1, 2026, one of the best spots to watch the New Year's first sunrise is Harukas 300, the highest observation deck atop Osaka’s tallest skyscraper, Abeno Harukas. However, as this is a once-a-year experience, tickets must be booked in advance. Be warned, they sell out quickly.
Standard Plans
With the Standard Plans, you can view the sunrise from the 59th floor (indoor), 60th floor (outdoor) or the helipad. Prices range from ¥6,000 to ¥8,500 per person, depending on the location. After the sunrise, enjoy a warm bowl of ozoni (traditional New Year’s soup with mochi) at the Sky Garden on the 58th floor.
Kotatsu Enjoyment Plans
For a more indulgent experience, the Kotatsu Enjoyment Plan offers a cosy and unique way to welcome the New Year. You begin with warm drinks at a special lounge on the 58th floor before proceeding to the helipad or the 60th floor to catch the sunrise. Afterwards, you’ll enjoy special New Year osechi dishes while tucked into a warm kotatsu at the 58th-floor Sky Garden.
For those unfamiliar, a kotatsu is a traditional Japanese low table with a built-in heater underneath, covered by a blanket to keep your lower body toasty and warm. Prices for the Kotatsu Plan range from ¥16,000 to ¥18,000 per person, depending on the type of kotatsu (sunken, semi-private or couple) and your sunrise viewing location.
Regardless of the plan you choose, you’ll have the unique chance to shout out your New Year’s resolution from the helipad, 300 metres above the city. You can even take part in kakizome, the traditional New Year’s calligraphy, to help strengthen your intentions for the year ahead.
This special Harukas 300 sunrise event runs from 6am to 8.30am on January 1 2026. The sun is expected to rise around 7.05am. You’re welcome to linger afterwards and enjoy the observation deck’s other facilities.
Tickets are selling fast, so be sure to secure yours early via Harukas 300’s ticketing website. If you’re looking to do something new and memorable to kick off 2026, this could be it.
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