So you want to be there to join in a great mass countdown to 2002 -- or you are determined to be one of the early birds catching sight of the Sun's first New Year rays? With so many venues vying for your bleary presence on New Year's Eve/New Year's Day, some observatories are opening their doors before dawn -- though to be sure of securing a good spot from which to enjoy the spectacle, you'd be well advised to get there long before that.
Tokyo Tower in Minato Ward
A New Year countdown event will be held on a special stage in front of the entrance from 11 p.m. on Dec. 31, with 2002 balloons released at midnight. On Jan. 1, the observatory opens at 6 a.m. for sunrise-viewing. For more information, call (03) 3433-5111.
Sunshine City 60 in Toshima Ward
A New Year countdown event with fireworks and other entertainment will be held on the "Sky Deck" and in the observatory from 6 p.m. The observatory then reopens at 5:30 a.m. on Jan. 1 to catch the sunrise. For more information, call (03) 3989-3457 or visit www.sunshinecity.co.jp