Oji Fox Parade

The Oji Fox Parade, or Kitsune-no-gyoretsu, is a unique New Year’s Eve event in the Oji district of Tokyo. It is inspired by regional folklore and a famous 19th-century ukiyo-e print by Utagawa Hiroshige depicting foxes gathering at a historic nettle tree. Legend states that on the final night of the year, foxes from across the Kanto region would congregate at this tree, transform into human form, and process to Oji Inari Jinja. Established as a modern tradition in 1993, the parade follows this mythical route, beginning at the site of the legendary tree and concluding at the shrine to perform hatsumode, the year’s first prayer.

Participants dress in traditional attire with kitsune masks and lanterns to symbolize kitsune-bi, or foxfire. For visitors, the most immersive experience begins shortly before midnight as the procession moves through the local streets. Those without masks can often find local stalls offering fox-themed face painting. Because the event occurs overnight in mid-winter, thermal clothing and heat packs are essential for spectators. Attendees should also verify special New Year’s Eve rail schedules for return travel after the event concludes.