Originally published on metropolis.co.jp on December 2013

The gentle Edo period gardens will be lively during oshogatsu this year with spectacular hawk presentations and shows (11am and 2pm), traditional tea ceremonies, and guided tours around the grounds (10am and 1pm).   Those interested in more traditional pastimes can try the Japanese spinning tops.

Jan 2-3, 9am-5pm, ¥150-300 entry, some activities require an additional fee. Hamarikyu Gardens. Nearest stn: Tokyo. http://meturl.com/newhamarikyu2014