By Taro

In this captivating midnight journey through Tokyo, photographer and videographer Taro takes viewers on a unique photowalk that captures the atmosphere of the city after the last train, during a special New Year’s Eve adventure. This episode is a departure from the channel’s usual segments, celebrating the transition to the new year by exploring Tokyo’s quieter, more intimate side in the early hours.

The journey begins at JR Akihabara Station (秋葉原駅) and heads to the nearby Yanagimori Shrine (柳森神社), where Taro experiences the peaceful atmosphere of a traditional New Year’s Eve visit known as 'toshikoshi'. Continuing the route, he makes a spontaneous stop for hatsumode (first shrine visit of the year) at an unplanned shrine found on the way to Suitengu Shrine (水天宮). From there, he visits Fukagawa Fudodo (深川不動堂), blending serene spiritual stops with authentic street experience.

As the night deepens, Taro walks through the lively Fukagawa Nakamachi Shopping Street (深川仲町通商店街), capturing its charm even in the early hours. He proceeds to Tsukishima and Toyosu, before arriving at his final stop—Shin-Kiba Ryokudo Park (新木場緑道公園)—just in time to witness the first sunrise of the year, or 'hatsuhinode'. The peacefulness of the Tokyo Bay area adds to the serenity of this unforgettable moment.

Throughout the journey, Taro shares his thoughts via commentaries embedded in the video captions, offering viewers personal reflections and impressions of each location. His accompanying photo album and contact sheet highlight a raw and immersive portrayal of Tokyo’s post-midnight landscape.

The video blends urban exploration, spiritual traditions, and visual storytelling, offering a rare behind-the-scenes look at Tokyo after hours during one of the most spiritually significant times in Japan's calendar year.