TOKYO SKYTREE® Welcomes 2026 with Sky-High Traditions and Soulful New Year Celebrations

TOKYO SKYTREE® Welcomes 2026 with Sky-High Traditions and Soulful New Year Celebrations

By Hariharan U

Published on December 22, 2025

As 2025 draws to a close, TOKYO SKYTREE®, the world’s tallest tower and one of Japan’s most iconic landmarks, is set to welcome 2026 with a celebration that blends tradition, symbolism, and spectacular city views. From December 26, 2025, to January 7, 2026, Tokyo Skytree and Tokyo Skytree Town® will host a series of New Year experiences inspired by Oshogatsu, Japan’s most important festive season.

For Indian travellers looking to begin the year with meaning and memorable moments, Tokyo Skytree offers a unique balance of ritual, celebration, and elevated experiences both literally and culturally.

A Sky Lit for the New Year

To mark the arrival of 2026, Tokyo Skytree will glow in red and white illumination, colours inspired by the Japanese national flag and symbolising purity, optimism, and new beginnings. Adding to the spectacle, a “Happy New Year” laser-mapped message will be projected across the upper façade of the Tembo Deck, creating a striking moment against Tokyo’s skyline.

Cultural Experiences at 350 Metres

A highlight of the celebrations is a series of culturally rooted encounters curated for visitors of all ages at the Tembo Deck.

From January 1 to 3, 2026, guests will have the rare opportunity to meet professional sumo wrestlers from Kise Stable, based in Tokyo’s Sumida Ward. Visitors can take commemorative photographs and participate in strength-based challenges, a tradition believed to invite good fortune in Japanese culture.

On January 1, 2026, the timeless Shishimai (Lion Dance) will be performed to live music at Soramachi Plaza and the Tembo Deck. Deeply rooted in Japanese tradition, the lion dance is believed to ward off misfortune. A playful “bite” from the lion is considered a blessing for wisdom and well-being in the year ahead.

Families visiting during the season can also look forward to meeting Sorakara-chan, Tokyo Skytree’s beloved mascot. Dressed in a vibrant New Year kimono, Sorakara-chan will greet guests at the Tembo Deck from January 1 to 7, 2026, adding a cheerful and festive touch to the experience.

Year of the Dragon Takes Centre Stage

In keeping with the zodiac cycle, Tokyo Skytree’s New Year décor will pay tribute to the Year of the Dragon, a symbol of strength, energy, and transformation. Dragon-inspired installations will be paired with floral accents and traditional folding fans across Tokyo Skytree and Tokyo Skytree Town, creating a visual story that reflects the spirit of renewal and forward momentum.

Festive Flavours and Seasonal Shopping

Celebrations extend beyond the observation decks into Tokyo Solamachi, the retail and dining destination at Tokyo Skytree Town.

Making its debut this season, the “Tokyo Solamachi Japan’s Best Foods Nakamise Festival” will bring together regional specialities from across Japan. Visitors can sample limited-edition curry buns from Kyoto, handmade oyaki from Nagano, and premium matcha lattes crafted by heritage tea brands, offering a flavourful way to welcome the New Year.
4F Sky Arena | December 29, 2025 – January 12, 2026

Another beloved New Year tradition, Fukubukuro or ‘Lucky Bags’, will be available at participating Solamachi stores. Each bag contains a surprise assortment of products curated for the season and is believed to bring good fortune to the buyer.

A Meaningful Start to 2026

From panoramic city views and zodiac-themed décor to time-honoured rituals, performances, and festive food, Tokyo Skytree Town offers a deeply atmospheric way to begin the year. For Indian travellers, it presents an opportunity to experience Tokyo’s New Year traditions in a way that feels both reflective and celebratory—high above the city and firmly rooted in culture.


Direct Ahmedabad–Colombo Flights Launched with City of Dreams Sri Lanka Partnership

Direct Ahmedabad–Colombo Flights Launched with City of Dreams Sri Lanka Partnership

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on April 7, 2026

City of Dreams Sri Lanka, Cinnamon Hotels & Resorts, and Walkers Tours have joined hands with FitsAir to introduce direct passenger flights between Ahmedabad and Colombo. This move is set to make international travel easier for travellers from Gujarat while opening up better access to Sri Lanka’s popular leisure destinations.

Operated by FitsAir, Sri Lanka’s first private international airline, the new route will run three times a week. The service is aimed at meeting the growing demand for overseas holidays from Gujarat, offering a smooth and direct travel option to Colombo.

With this improved connectivity, travellers can explore a range of premium stays under Cinnamon Hotels & Resorts, including Cinnamon Life at City of Dreams, Cinnamon Grand Colombo, Cinnamon Lakeside Colombo, and Cinnamon Red Colombo.

Gujarat is steadily growing as an important source market for Sri Lanka, supported by strong cultural connections and increasing interest in international travel. The launch of these direct flights is expected to strengthen tourism between Ahmedabad and Colombo, positioning Sri Lanka as a preferred short-haul destination.

Located in the heart of Colombo, City of Dreams Sri Lanka brings together entertainment, hospitality, and lifestyle experiences. Travellers can also opt for curated holiday packages that include stays at Cinnamon properties along with multi-destination itineraries across Sri Lanka, such as cultural trips to Kandy and beach getaways.

Nayana Mawilmada, President – Leisure & Property, John Keells Holdings, said, “We are delighted to strengthen our presence in the Indian market, particularly in Gujarat, which continues to show strong potential for outbound travel. This strategic partnership and the introduction of direct connectivity from Ahmedabad make it significantly easier for travellers to experience the unique blend of luxury, entertainment, and cultural richness that City of Dreams Sri Lanka and Cinnamon Hotels & Resorts have to offer.”

Kamal Munasinghe, Senior Vice President – Colombo Hotels, Cinnamon Hotels & Resorts and General Manager, Cinnamon Life at City of Dreams, added, “Ahmedabad is an important and fast-growing market for us. With the launch of these direct flights, we are excited to welcome more travellers from Gujarat to Colombo. From the immersive experiences at City of Dreams Sri Lanka to the diverse hospitality offerings across Cinnamon properties, we look forward to delivering memorable stays tailored to Indian guests.”

Nalaka Amaratunga - Chief Executive Officer, Destination Management Sector, Walkers Tours commented, “This partnership marks an important milestone in enhancing connectivity between Ahmedabad and Colombo. By combining direct flights with thoughtfully curated travel packages, we aim to offer a seamless and enriching Sri Lankan holiday experience for travellers from Gujarat.”

Starting from 15 May, 2026, flights will operate three times a week between Ahmedabad and Colombo. Specially curated travel packages by Cinnamon, which include return airfare, a two-night stay with breakfast at Cinnamon Life at City of Dreams, and private airport transfers, offering a convenient and value-driven travel option.

Travel Schedule – Effective from 15th May

  • Ahmedabad → Colombo: 03:40 – 06:50

  • Ahmedabad → Colombo: 10:45 – 13:55

  • Colombo → Ahmedabad: 23:25 – 02:35

  • Colombo → Ahmedabad: 06:30 – 09:40.


Saudia Introduces Google Feature to Help Track Lost Baggage

Saudia Introduces Google Feature to Help Track Lost Baggage

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on April 7, 2026

Saudia, the national flag carrier of Saudi Arabia, has introduced Google’s Find Hub share item location feature to make baggage recovery smoother and more efficient. The move adds an optional layer of support for guests dealing with delayed or missing baggage.

With this feature, guests using a compatible tracker tag or Bluetooth device can create a secure and temporary link that shares the location of their baggage. This link can be attached while reporting a lost or delayed bag, allowing Saudia’s ground teams to access real-time location details and speed up the recovery process.

The shared access is time-bound and automatically expires after seven days. Guests can also stop sharing the location at any point, ensuring they stay in complete control of their information throughout the process.

This update works alongside Saudia’s existing baggage handling systems, giving travellers better visibility and added reassurance during their journey. It is designed to make the experience more transparent while keeping things simple and user-friendly.

Rossen Dimitrov, Chief Guest Experience Officer at Saudia, said: “Our focus is on giving guests confidence and reassurance throughout their journey. Initiatives like this reflect our broader commitment to clarity, transparency, and ensuring guests feel informed and in control at every stage of the experience. It is about strengthening trust and providing peace of mind through thoughtful, guest-centered decisions.”

By rolling out this feature, Saudia becomes one of the first airlines globally to adopt such technology, highlighting its focus on digital innovation and improved guest experiences.

The feature has been built with privacy in mind. Location details are shared only for baggage recovery purposes and remain accessible to the airline for a limited time. Once the process is completed or the guest decides to stop sharing, access is automatically removed.

Guests can use this feature by ensuring their device and tracker accessory are compatible and updated to the latest supported software versions.


InterGlobe’s Miiro Opens Second Vienna Property with Miiro Spittelberg

InterGlobe’s Miiro Opens Second Vienna Property with Miiro Spittelberg

By Author

Published on April 6, 2026

InterGlobe Enterprises’ lifestyle hospitality brand Miiro has strengthened its European presence with the opening of Miiro Spittelberg, marking its second property in Vienna.

Located in the historic Spittelberg District, just behind the MuseumsQuartier, the hotel is set within one of the city’s most culturally vibrant neighbourhoods. Known for its cobbled streets, artisan heritage, independent galleries, and lively café culture, the area offers an authentic window into Vienna’s contemporary creative scene.

Miiro Spittelberg features 132 guestrooms and suites, designed with a blend of warm neutrals, bold accents, natural textures, and soft lighting. Staying true to Miiro’s ‘Brilliantly Considered’ design philosophy, the rooms are crafted to provide a calming yet refined atmosphere, complete with plush beds, rainfall showers, cosy reading nooks, and premium toiletries.

The hotel’s design combines sleek modern lines with creative details, offering guests a space that feels both stylish and comfortable. Whether exploring Vienna’s iconic landmarks or unwinding within the property, the experience is designed to feel immersive and connected to its surroundings.

Dining at the hotel reflects a seamless all-day concept inspired by European café culture with an Italian twist. The experience is anchored by Poco, an Italian-inspired urban pizzeria and bar, adding a vibrant social element to the property.

Art plays a central role in the hotel’s identity, highlighted by an immersive ceiling mural that encourages personal reflection. This is complemented by a curated collection of works by Austrian and international artists displayed throughout the space. Additional amenities include a library, a 24-hour gym, and Miiro’s signature Refresh Room.

Commenting on the opening, Neena Gupta said, “The opening of Miiro Spittelberg marks an exciting milestone as we continue to grow Miiro in culturally rich European cities. Vienna’s artistic spirit and deep-rooted heritage make it a natural home for not just one but two of our properties, and the neighbourhood of Spittelberg reflects the lively, local energy we seek to celebrate.”

With this launch, Miiro continues to expand its footprint across Europe, with a growing portfolio spanning cities such as Paris, Barcelona, London, Gstaad, and Vienna, while InterGlobe’s broader international presence extends to destinations including Amsterdam, Munich, Prague, Budapest, Hamburg, and Melbourne.

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