Explore the ’13 Best Spots to Watch the First Sunrise on New Year’s Day in Yokosuka’ guide to discover the perfect locations. In this article, we will delve into why watching the first sunrise is a traditional event in Japan, introducing the reasons and recommending spots. Let’s welcome the upcoming new year in a special way.

Why Has Watching the First Sunrise Become a New Year Tradition?

In Japan, it has been believed since ancient times that the deity of the year, who brings prosperity and happiness to each household every New Year, appears with the first sunrise. Observing the “初日の出” is considered auspicious, and by praying during this event, people express their wishes for a bountiful and happy year, aligning with the presence of the deity of the year.

“初日の出” (Hatsuhinode) and “ご来光” (Goraikou)

In Japanese culture, the terms “初日の出” (Hatsuhinode) and “ご来光” (Goraikou) both revolve around the sunrise, but they carry distinct meanings and cultural significance. Let’s explore each term and its associated beliefs.

“ご来光” (Goraikou) – The Revered Sunrise

“ご来光” refers to the sunrise, particularly revered when observed from high mountains or mountain peaks. Originally written as 御来迎 (goraigou), it described the phenomenon where one’s shadow is cast onto high clouds near the summit, creating a colorful halo resembling a Buddha statue. The famous “ご来光” of Mount Fuji is well-known, with the belief that higher mountains bring earlier sunrises, symbolizing greater blessings. However, “ご来光” can be observed from various mountains, not limited to Mount Fuji.

“初日の出” (Hatsuhinode) – The New Year’s Day Sunrise

“初日の出” specifically refers to the sunrise on New Year’s Day. Any sunrise observed on this day is considered a “初日の出,” but it becomes a “ご来光” when witnessed from a high mountain. The cultural practice of clasping hands in prayer during sunrise is associated with both phenomena.

Distinct Objects of Worship

While observing “ご来光” and “初日の出,” there is a distinct difference in the objects of worship. “ご来光” is associated with Buddhism, symbolizing the light carried by Buddha as he approaches. In contrast, “初日の出” is linked to Shintoism, where it is believed that the deity of the year, associated with bountiful harvests and happiness, descends with the first sunrise of the year.

Note

“四方拝” (Shihouhai) refers to the ritual of bowing in the four directions, conducted on New Year’s Day at 5:30 am in a facility located in the southern garden of the Shinkaden (the main palace of the Imperial Palace), where the Emperor prays for the peace and prosperity of the nation and its people.

Mt. Ogusu

At the summit rest area (View House) of Mount Ogusu, the observation tower is currently not available.

As the highest peak of the Miura Peninsula, the summit plaza offers views of Mount Fuji and Tokyo Bay. There are several trails leading to the summit, but the Ashina-guchi Course is recommended due to the dimly lit mountain paths. Don’t forget to bring a flashlight.

■ There is no parking available.

Mt. Takeyama

The summit observation deck is a popular spot every year. In the foreground, you can see fields and the sea in the direction of Miura, with the distant Boso Peninsula beyond.

There are several trails leading to the summit, but it is recommended to use the trail from the Ikizuka bus stop direction, as the mountain paths can be dark. Don’t forget to bring a flashlight.

■ There is no parking available.

Kurihama Flower Park

At Kuribayama Hananokuni (Kuribayama Flower Country), there are several view spots overlooking the Kurihama Port facing Tokyo Bay. Highly recommended locations include the midway slope near the entrance from the side of the 2nd parking lot close to Kurihama Port, around the restaurant “Los Marines,” and the observation deck.

■Parking

The second parking lot is available from 5:30 AM. (Fee: 630 yen)
*Available for regular-sized vehicles only.

*Note: During the New Year’s holiday period (12/29 to 1/3), all facilities within the park will be closed. Please be aware that park entry is still allowed, but the use of playground equipment is limited to Adventure Land only.

For more details, click here.

Kannonzaki Park

Located at the entrance of Tokyo Bay, the sunrise from the mountains of the Boso Peninsula is exceptionally beautiful.

■Parking

Available on New Year’s Day from 3:00 AM to 5:00 PM (Fee: 880 yen)

For more details, click here.

Jogashima Park・Uma-no-se Cave

Jogashima, at the southernmost tip of the Miura Peninsula, is a representative sunrise spot on the peninsula.

■Parking

Jogashima Park’s first and second parking lots are open from 8:00 AM. (On New Year’s Day in 2024, the first parking lot is open for free from 3:00 AM to the early morning. After 8:00 AM, regular parking fees apply.)

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Jogashima Bridge

The large vessels that utilize Misaki Fishing Port, famous for its tuna hauls, are designed with a significant height from the sea to allow passage under the bridges. As a result, the view from the bridge is exceptional. However, please note that parking is prohibited in this area, so refrain from on-street parking or drastically reducing speed.

■Parking

Jogashima Park’s first and second parking lots are open from 8:00 AM. (On New Year’s Day in 2024, the first parking lot is open for free from 3:00 AM to the early morning. After 8:00 AM, regular parking fees apply.)

*Throughout the year, there is also Jogashima West Parking Lot (Jogashima 1st to 4th Parking Lot), which is open 24 hours and is located away from the bridge.

Miura Beach・Tsukuihama Beach

Miura Beach is one of the largest sandy beaches on the Miura Peninsula, followed by Tsukuihama Beach to its north. While it’s a popular spot for watching the first sunrise, the expansive beach ensures that it doesn’t get overly crowded. However, be aware that parking lots along the coast can be very congested.

■Parking

• Shimoura Coast 1st Parking Lot: Open 24 hours (Paid)
• Windsurfing World Cup Memorial Parking Lot: Open 24 hours (Paid)
• Free parking spaces along Kikuna Coast (Minamishimura District Coastal Area): Available 24 hours (Free)

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Nobi Beach・Nagasawa Beach

Nobinohama Coast and Nagasawa Coast, also known as Kitashimoura Coast, are located on the northern side of Miura Beach. With intermittent expansive sandy shores, they are ideal spots for watching the morning sun.

■Parking

Coin parking is available around YRP Nobi Station and Keikyu Nagasawa Station.

Kurihama Beach

Kurihama Coast is nestled within a small bay, offering a more sheltered view compared to the sandy shores from Miura Beach to Nobinohama Coast. However, during the period of the first sunrise, you can witness the morning sun rising from the front of the Boso Peninsula. As it is a bit away from the nearest station, there are fewer tourists, making it a sunrise spot popular among locals.

■Parking
Coin parking is available along Kurihama Coast.

Tokyo Bay Ferry

You can enjoy the morning sun from the Tokyo Bay Ferry that connects Kurihama Port to Minami Boso Kurihama Port. By using a sightseeing ticket, you can experience an affordable boat trip (One way: 900 yen for adults, Sightseeing: 1,150 yen for adults).

■Parking

Kurihama Ferry Terminal Parking Lot: Operates in accordance with the first ferry departure (Paid)
*There are also several other coin parking lots in the vicinity.

Glass Beach (Tomyodo Coast)

Tomyodo Coast is a beach located between Uraga and Kurihama. While it is a quiet beach now, the vicinity of Tomyodo Coast has historically been a crucial point along Tokyo Bay.

■Parking

Tomyodo Green Area Parking Lot Open from 5:00 AM (First 30 minutes free, then paid)

Tatarahama Beach

Tatara Beach is a coastal area located on the south side of Kannonzaki. It features a rare white sandy beach and a seaside lawn where you can enjoy the morning sun.

■Parking

• BEACH PARK LIVING Parking Lot (formerly Kannonzaki Park 6th Parking Lot) Open 24 hours (Paid)
• Kannonzaki Park 1st to 5th Parking Lots operate from 8:00 AM (On January 1st, they open from 3:00 AM).

Heiwa Central Park

Peace Chuo Park, located on a hill between Yokosuka Chuo Station and Kenritsu Daigaku Station on the Keikyu Line, is a park with a splendid view of Tokyo Bay. The park offers many scenic spots.

■Parking

Yokosuka City Cultural Hall Parking Lot Entrance hours 7:30 AM to 11:00 PM, Exit hours all day (Paid)

Afternote: Welcoming the New Year with the Sunrise from High Mountains

Observing the “ご来光” (goraikou) from a high mountain or summit on New Year’s Day is considered an auspicious moment. Every year, many people climb mountains on New Year’s Eve to welcome the sunrise at the summit. This tradition is rooted in the practice of offering prayers for the new year’s beginning and taking a fresh step forward with pure intentions.

Why not make it a goal for the upcoming year to wake up early and, with a sense of anticipation and gratitude, welcome the first sunrise amidst beautiful scenery? Experiencing the dawn in the mountains or amidst nature provides an opportunity to refresh the mind and set a positive tone for the new year.

Capturing the panoramic views from the summit and the moment the sun rises with a camera is also a wonderful idea to preserve the beauty of the first sunrise forever. Touching the natural beauty at the start of the new year allows you to feel the powerful energy it exudes, marking the beginning of a new and promising year.

Certainly, as you welcome the new year, try to find your own special moments and create lasting memories in your heart.

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