What this is
Beethoven's Ninth is performed so frequently in Japan every December that the country imports extra orchestral musicians just to meet demand — and this Tokyo Metropolitan Symphony Orchestra rendition, conducted by Kazuhiro Koizumi with the New National Theatre Chorus, is one of the capital's most prestigious iterations of that tradition. The 'Daiku' (大九), as it's affectionately known here, has become Japan's definitive year-end ritual, filling concert halls the way carols fill churches elsewhere. Soloists join the full chorus for the iconic 'Ode to Joy' finale.
Who should go
Classical music lovers and anyone curious about one of Japan's most distinctive seasonal customs. The New Year's Eve timing makes it a natural choice for visitors wanting a culturally meaningful way to mark the holiday in Tokyo.
Good to know
Tickets for Tokyo Metropolitan Symphony Orchestra concerts are typically sold through eplus.jp, pia.jp, and Lawson Ticket — all three platforms accept foreign credit cards, and Lawson Ticket convenience store pickup (combini) is the most hassle-free option for visitors without a Japanese delivery address. Suntory Hall seats approximately 2,006 and is fully seated with excellent acoustics; Sumida Triphony Hall seats around 1,801 and is similarly prestigious. Photography and video recording are not permitted during performances at any of these venues. The Ninth runs approximately 70–75 minutes without an interval, or around 90 minutes with one — plan your post-concert transport accordingly, as trains can be busy on Christmas night.
This event was sourced and translated from Japanese by What's On Japan. Details may change — verify with the official source before attending.