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Tokyo: Top 12 Winter Illuminations in 2024-2025
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In winter, especially around Christmas, Japan's cities come alive with dazzling illuminations. This article features 12 popular illumination events held in Tokyo from 2024 to 2025.
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This is the official account of MATCHA's editorial department. Our articles feature useful travel information for visitors to Japan, from how-to guides to recommended places to visit.
During wintertime, especially as the Christmas season nears, various illumination events light up the Tokyo cityscape. These famous locations continue adding something new every year and draw in large crowds of visitors.
The following is a list of 12 illumination events in Tokyo held in December 2024 and early 2025.
12 Dazzling Illuminations in Tokyo 2024
1. Roppongi Hills Christmas 2024
2. The Row of Zelkova Trees at Omotesando
3. Marunouchi Illumination 2024: Near Tokyo Station
4. Tokyo Dome City SHOW Illumination
5. Yomiuriland Jewellumination
6. HIBIYA Magic Time Illumination
7. Tokyo Mega Illumination 2024 - 2025
8. Tokyo Midtown- Yaesu
9. Tokyo Midtown - MIDTOWN WINTER LIGHTS
10. Tokyo Skytree Town Dream Christmas 2024
11. Odaiba Illumination YAKEI Christmas
12. Yebisu Garden Place Winter Illuminations
1. Roppongi Hills Christmas 2024
Picture courtesy of PR Times
The Roppongi Hills Christmas held every year in Roppongi is one of the most popular events in Tokyo during the Christmas season. The Keyakizaka Avenue is adorned with dazzling lights at night, becoming a representative romantic spot in winter.
Various other locations in Roppongi Hills, such as 66 Plaza, Mohri Garden, West Walk, and Tokyo City View, all offer different types of lighting. The Christmas Market held at O-Yane Plaza in the past years had all the features of an authentic event of its kind, including shops handling mulled wine and sausages.
Roppongi Hills is accessible from Roppongi Station (Exit 1C) via the Tokyo Metro Hibiya Line or Roppongi Station (Exit 3) via the Toei Oedo Line.
Let's take a look at the special features of this year's Roppongi Hills Christmas.
Keyakizaka Avenue: SNOW ＆ BLUE
Picture courtesy of PR Times
The most representative feature of Roppongi Hills Christmas is the approximately 400-meter-long Keyakizaka Avenue, which transforms into a silver-white world with about 800,000 LED lights.
Together with the Tokyo Tower in the background, it creates a dreamlike and beautiful scenery.
Lighting time: 17:00 to 23:00
66 Plaza: Luminous Bouquet
Picture courtesy of PR Times
Within the facility, 66 Plaza also offers Christmas lights to enjoy. Luminous Bouquet is inspired by colorful bouquets, and approximately 200,000 LED lights add splendid colors to the trees, creating a joyful mood as if receiving a bouquet.
Lighting time: 17:00 to 24:00
Picture courtesy of PR Times
In addition, various shops in Roppongi Hills also offer colorful limited edition desserts based on the Luminous Bouquet lighting event at 66 Plaza, bringing a happy feast of visual and gustatory delights in winter.
Roppongi Hills Christmas 2024: Event Details
Dates: November 7 - December 25, 2024
Official website: https://www.roppongihills.com/
2. The Row of Zelkova Trees at Omotesando
Photo by Pixta
The row of zelkova trees, a signature hallmark of Omotesando, will be illuminated in champagne gold, along with the shrubbery.
Half a million LED lights will warm the hearts of pedestrians during winter nights. Omotesando is accessible from Meiji-jingumae Station (via the Tokyo Metro Chiyoda and Fukutoshin Lines) and JR Omotesando Station.
Dates: December 1 - 28, 2024
*from December 29 to January 5, only the bushes lining the street will be adorned with lights.
Hours: sunset - 22:00
3. Marunouchi Illumination 2024: Near Tokyo Station
Photo by Pixta
From the south gate of Tokyo Station (via the JR Line and Tokyo Metro), it is a minute's walk to Marunouchi Naka-dori Avenue where the Marunouchi Illumination is held. The trees along the street stretch for 1.2 kilometers and will be elegantly lit up in champagne gold.
The illumination employs an energy-saving system and stands out in the eco-friendly sense since the electricity is generated by solar or wind power.
The Marunouchi area also hosts various Christmas events.
Dates: November 14, 2024 - February 16, 2025
Hours: 16:00 to 23:00
*From December 1 to the 31, the illumination will start at 16:00 and last until 24:00.
4. Tokyo Dome City SHOW Illumination
Picture courtesy of PR Times
Tokyo Dome City can be accessed from Suidobashi Station (via the JR Chuo, Sobu Line, and Toei Mita Line), Korakuen Station (Tokyo Metro Marunouchi and Namboku Lines), and Kasuga Station (Toei Oedo Line).
The annual illumination event at Tokyo Dome City has become a winter tradition. At its 20th edition this year, the event's theme is Snow Globe, showcasing 4 different snow dome areas sparkling with illuminations and beautiful snow-themed decorations and installations.
At TOKYO SNOW DOME CITY, the illumination will feature meticulous attention to detail, showcasing a variety of beautiful installations and enchanting decorations that enhance the overall experience. Guests will find areas where they can physically engage with the lights, creating a truly immersive atmosphere. This event is designed to inspire magical memories, making it the perfect setting for visitors to explore and enjoy. Whether you're with family, a couple, friends, or alone, there's no doubt that you'll have a great time!
Dates: November 21 - February 29
Please note that the illumination time will differ according to the area and period.
Read also
5. Yomiuriland Jewellumination
Picture courtesy of PR Times
While Yomiuriland is known as an amusement park, it is also famous for its large-scale illuminations.
The lighting is titled Jewellumination, a first of its kind worldwide, and supervised by a renowned lighting designer using 24 gemstone colors. Visitors will be welcomed by 5.5 million lightbulbs, along with the water show.
It is a ten to 15-minute ride on the Odakyu Bus to Yomiuriland from either Keio Yomiuri-Land Station (via the Keio Line) or Yomiuriland-mae Station (via the Odakyu Line).
Dates: October 24, 2024 - April 6, 2025
Hours: 16:00 - 20:30
6. HIBIYA Magic Time Illumination
Strut down a rainbow tunnel! Each year Hibiya comes to life with magical lights paving the streets and its park view garden, which boasts an amazing view of Tokyo Tower.
In 2024, those who travel to Hibiya will be met with a delightful surprise. The area has transformed its usual shimmering silver lights into a rainbow city! Based on the theme of magical moments, Hibiya displays a dazzling ray of positivity throughout the city in hopes of a bright and peaceful future.
Showcasing its overall concept of magical moments, Hibiya's Christmas illuminations over the past five years have gained the attention of millions of guests, with 2022 alone attracting 4.2 million people!
Each tree along Hibiya Nakadori will have its own color creating a fantastic rainbow road. The city is working towards solar-powered energy and is displaying lights using green energy making the event eco-friendly.
Immersing those who visit into a world of festivities, the Hibiya Step Plaza will have seven colorful Christmas trees, decorated with vibrant flowers.
The stairway around the plaza is lit up in a beautiful rainbow leading to the garden where visitors will be greeted by a glittering open garden full of rainbow LED lights! The area offers a beautiful view of the city and seats to relax while looking out onto Tokyo Tower.
Period: November 14, 2024 - February 28, 2025
Hours: 16:00 - 23:00
Location: Hibiya Nakadori/Tokyo Midtown Hibiya Exterior (Hibiya Step Plaza/6F Park View Garden)
7. Tokyo Mega Illumination 2024 - 2025
Tokyo Mega Illumination, hosted inside the Oi Racecourse from November 2 to January 12, is the ideal spot to indulge in an afternoon of fun in a park full of sparkling lights, attractions, and delicious food!
Just 20 minutes from Tokyo Teleport Station and 13 minutes away from Haneda Airport, Tokyo Mega Illumination is easily accessible and a great place to stop by after a long day venturing around Tokyo! For those wishing to see the magical lights and romantic scenery of Odaiba, you can also fit this dazzling gem into your itinerary.
Within the expansive venue, visitors can enjoy dazzling attractions such as illumination shows with large rainbow fountains, walk under glittering tunnels of light, and watch as aurora lights dance over silver light trees!
Animal lovers can also meet the horses at the race course. The racecourse makes use of lights to highlight the venue's natural beauty such as the gigantic magical tree surrounded by beautiful projection mapping.
The event also features delicious food making it an ideal afternoon activity for families, friends, and couples to go to when in Tokyo.
Tokyo Mega Illumination 2024 - 2025
Period: November 2, 2024 - January 12, 2025
Official website: https://www.tokyomegaillumi.jp/
8. Tokyo Midtown Yaesu
Picture courtesy of PR Times
The Yaesu area near Tokyo Station has flourished as a city of craftsmanship,gathering Japanese artisans since the Edo period. Today, it serves as a gateway where people come and go, embodying the dreams and aspirations of those looking towards the future.
This year's MIDTOWN CHRISTMAS event will focus on the culture of Kintsugi, which is actively practiced in Ishikawa Prefecture, the top producer of gold leaf in Japan.
An interactive tree called Kintsugi Tsugiki, which is inspired by Kintsugi, will stand majestically in the 1st floor Galleria, illuminating the area with a magical light.
Picture courtesy of PR Times
Additionally, in the first floor atrium, there will be exhibitions of Kintsugi artworks and workshops where people can experience this tradition. The proceeds from workshop participation fees will be donated to support the reconstruction efforts in Ishikawa Prefecture.
Moreover, the ceiling of the Galleria will showcase the GALLERIA Winter Lights. On the 5th floor YAESU TERRACE, the Illumination TERRACE, adorned with champagne gold trees, will create a fantastical space alongside the night view of Tokyo Station.
Event Details
MIDTOWN YAESU CHRISTMAS 2024
Period: November 14 - December 25, 2024 *Some illuminations will be held until February 16, 2025.
Hours: 16:00 - 24:00
Location: Tokyo Midtown Yaesu 1F Galleria (outdoor plaza)
GALLERIA Winter Lights
Period: November 14, 2024 - February 16, 2025
Hours: 16:00 - 24:00
Location: Tokyo Midtown Yaesu 1F Galleria (outdoor plaza) and its surroundings
Illumination TERRACE
Period: November 14, 2024 - February 16, 2025
Hours: 16:00 - 24:00
Location: Tokyo Midtown Yaesu 5F YAESU TERRACE
9. Tokyo Midtown - MIDTOWN WINTER LIGHTS
Picture courtesy of PR Times
Tokyo Midtown is a popular spot for those who visit Japan in winter and residents. Each year the area displays dazzling Christmas lights, connecting to areas such as the famous Keyakizaka Hill Blue Illuminations and Roppongi Hills Christmas.
In 2024 the concept of the event is Ensemblewrap - Layers of overlapping, enveloping light, Tokyo Midtown aims to enchant its guests with its Christmas fantasy displays, synchronized lights, nature, and songs to create a magical winter wonderland.
The new installments can be enjoyed both day and night and are located outside and indoors. The area's ice skating rink will also be open during this time.
About 36 golden trees are shining gold in the day and at night coming alive with flashing lights, fog, and sounds. During November guests can walk among the 4-meter-tall trees inside the exhibition space and immerse themselves in art and nature. The garden spreads across 80 meters across the area and is a fantastic spot to explore.
Picture courtesy of PR Times
Those looking for a romantic stroll through the city have the opportunity to walk under enchanting golden trees. The popular light promenade is back again and ready to leave everyone starstruck. Located in the Midtown Garden Plaza 1F, visitors can stroll under the city lights surrounded by peaceful gardens shining a beautiful gold. The garden's ponds reflect the illuminations creating a mirror of light.
Picture courtesy of PR Times
After strolling outside, why not head on inside to finish some Christmas shopping and witness beautiful falling snow?
The enchanting 4-meter-tall "Santa Tree," adorned with approximately 1,600 Santa Claus ornaments, has returned to Tokyo Midtown, bringing festive cheer to the Christmas season. This year, the Santa Tree has been beautifully upgraded with snow ornaments and designs that evoke a snowy wonderland, harmonizing perfectly with the illuminations throughout the garden area.
As you explore this delightful installation, take the time to discover your favorite Santa, each one embodying a unique moment of holiday joy.
In addition, the Galleria is embracing a "Snow Gift" theme, fostering a gentle and festive Christmas atmosphere filled with peaceful thoughts.
The “Feathery Snow Tree,” resembling fluffy fallen snow, will shine brightly in the atrium area of the Galleria, creating a serene focal point. Furthermore, the Garden Terrace will feature the whimsical "Snow Fall Forest," a fantastical photo spot inspired by a snow-covered woodland, inviting guests to immerse themselves in the magic of the season.
Event Details
Ensemble lights
Period: November 14 - December 25 (Monday), 2024
Illumination Hours: 17:04 - 23:00
Location: Midtown Garden
Light Promenade
Period: November 14,2024 - Febuaray 24, 2025
Illumination Hours: 17:00 - 23:00
Location: Midtown Garden, Midtown Garden, Plaza 1F
Galleria Installation Santa Tree
Period: November 14 - December 25 (Monday), 2024
Hours: 11:00 - 23:00
Location: Galleria B1
10. Tokyo Skytree Town Dream Christmas 2024
Picture courtesy of PR Times
Tokyo Skytree is a must-visit in winter! The area is the perfect place to celebrate Christmas and participate in seasonal activities. With Tokyo Skytree Town already boasting great food and shopping options, the shopping center is ideal for those looking for Christmas shopping and gifts for loved ones.
Tokyo Skytree Town Dream Christmas 2024 features a gigantic Christmas tree placed in front of the tower making it the perfect photo spot! Acting as a centerpiece to Tokyo Skytree Town, the tree will be 8 meters tall!
The event's popular Christmas Market creates a cozy, sheltered environment as it surrounds the Christmas tree selling imported goods from Germany and warm, delicious beverages and food.
Picture courtesy of PR Times
The incredible 460,000 dazzling illuminations decorating Tokyo Skytree Town and its surroundings will be sure to leave you beaming. Visitors have the opportunity to enjoy an enchanting night of illuminations with local areas such as Ushijima Shrine and Sumida Park being adorned with bamboo light installations.
Picture courtesy of PR Times
From December, guests can enjoy digital artwork and performances arranged by Tokyo Skytree's official mascot, Sora Kara Chan.
Colorful projection mapping will dance over Tokyo Skytree as the plaza is full of fun music and performances. Turning the area into one gigantic entertainment spot, the exterior as well as the interior of Tokyo Skytree will be brimming with Christmas delight.
Those who climb the tower have the great opportunity to capture festive photos and installations while gazing over a panoramic view of the world's largest city.
Tokyo Skytree Town Dream Christmas 2024
Period: November 14 - December 25, 2024
Illuminations Hours: 16:00 - 24:00
Christmas Market: 11:00 - 22:00 (L.O. 21:00)
Projection Mapping Show: 17:30, 18:00, 18:30, 19:00, 19:30
Location: Tokyo Skytree Town 4F Sky Arena
11. Odaiba Illumination YAKEI Christmas
Picture courtesy of PR Times
Odaiba is a popular spot for illuminations all year round. Famous for its Rainbow Bridge and Statue of Liberty, the area has illuminations that light up each night throughout the year.
Those who visit the area are greeted by the amazing scenery of Tokyo's nightscape, including the Tokyo Tower illuminating the city's skyline. Odaiba is great for amusement, games, food, and shopping, and offers great panoramic views of the city.
Picture courtesy of PR Times
In December, Decks Tokyo Beach hosts a Christmas-themed illumination, decorating its real 20-meter-high Odaiba Memorial Tree with Christmas lights and boasting an adorable art spot for great photos. The attractions will coincide with the area's 100,000 coated trees that are illuminated all year round.
Event Details
Odaiba Illumination YAKEI
Period: All year round
Time: 17:00 - 24:00
Location: Decks Tokyo Beach 3F Seaside Deck
Official website: https://www.odaiba-decks.com/news/event/yakei.html
Winter Illumination DECKS Tokyo Beach
Period: November 13, 2024 to February 16, 2025
Hours: 17:00 - 24:00
Location: Decks Tokyo Beach 3F Seaside Terrace
Read also
12. Yebisu Garden Place Winter Illuminations
Yebisu Garden Place Winter Illuminations are one of Tokyo's most popular winter events. Brimming with elegance each year, Yebisu Garden Place is adorned with shining golden lights, beautiful installments, quaint Christmas huts, and rich red decor.
Placed in the spotlight, a sparkling Christmas tree decorated from head to toe with large red ornaments shines as one of the main attractions in the event.
A red carpet leads from the Christmas tree towards the sophisticated Baccarat Chandelier, one of the world's largest chandeliers measuring five meters tall and three meters wide!
Made from 250 lights and 8,472 dazzling crystals, the chandelier and its elegant surroundings are sure to impress visitors. Hot chocolate, mulled wine, and pastries are just a few of the delights sold at the garden's Christmas Market! Visitors can participate in seasonal treats and activities such as delicious European food, ice skating, and taking photos at the Christmas photo spots.
To find out more about the event see our Yebisu Garden Place Winter Illuminations article below.
FAQ
Where is the best place to see lights in Tokyo?
Tokyo offers a spectacular array of illuminated displays and lights that captivate visitors throughout the year, especially during seasonal events. Shibuya's bustling streets and department stores like Shibuya 109 dazzle with festive lights during Christmas and New Year's celebrations. Shinjuku shines brightly with impressive winter illuminations around its station and commercial district, with Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden adding to the enchanting atmosphere. Tokyo Midtown in Roppongi boasts popular illumination events with intricate light displays and artistic creations. Odaiba's modern architecture comes alive with vibrant lights, particularly around the Rainbow Bridge and shopping complexes like Palette Town. Tokyo Dome City in Bunkyo Ward and Caretta Shiodome in Shiodome also offer captivating light shows and festive illuminations, creating a magical and vibrant ambiance that showcases Tokyo's dynamic and lively spirit through its stunning displays of lights.
Does Tokyo have Christmas lights?
Tokyo transforms into a dazzling wonderland during the holiday season with enchanting Christmas lights and illuminations that adorn various districts and attractions throughout the city. Shibuya's lively streets and department stores burst with festive decorations and vibrant lights, creating a spirited atmosphere. Roppongi Hills and Tokyo Midtown in Roppongi showcase elaborate light displays, art installations, and decorative sculptures that capture the magic of Christmas. Marunouchi near Tokyo Station and Omotesando Avenue in Harajuku enchant visitors with elegant and sophisticated decorations, adding a touch of charm to the holiday experience. These locations, among others, offer residents and tourists alike the opportunity to immerse themselves in the festive spirit of Christmas through stunning displays of lights and decorations that illuminate Tokyo with warmth and joy during the holiday season.
Where is the Roppongi illumination?
Roppongi Illumination is a popular winter illumination event that takes place in Roppongi, a vibrant district in Tokyo known for its nightlife, art galleries, and entertainment options. During the holiday season, Roppongi Hills and Tokyo Midtown, two major shopping and entertainment complexes in the area, host elaborate light displays and festive illuminations that attract visitors from all over the city. Roppongi Illumination features intricate light shows, art installations, and themed displays that transform the district into a magical winter wonderland, captivating spectators with its dazzling colors and festive atmosphere. Both Roppongi Hills and Tokyo Midtown are easily accessible by public transportation, making it convenient for visitors to experience the enchanting Roppongi Illumination during the holiday season.
Where is the best place to see Christmas in Tokyo?
Tokyo offers a delightful array of festive locations to experience the enchanting spirit of Christmas. Shibuya dazzles with vibrant displays and decorations around popular spots like Shibuya Crossing and department stores, creating a lively and bustling holiday atmosphere. Roppongi Hills and Tokyo Midtown in Roppongi are renowned for their elaborate Christmas illuminations and themed displays, providing a sophisticated and magical setting for visitors to revel in the holiday spirit. Marunouchi near Tokyo Station and Omotesando Avenue in Harajuku transform into winter wonderlands, drawing crowds with enchanting lights, festive decorations, and engaging activities that capture the joy and charm of Christmas in Tokyo. These spots offer visitors memorable experiences and the chance to immerse themselves in the festive ambiance of the holiday season in the vibrant city of Tokyo.
Is Christmas better in Tokyo or Osaka?
Tokyo and Osaka each offer distinct and enchanting experiences during the Christmas season, catering to different preferences. Tokyo's extravagant illuminations, luxurious shopping districts, and sophisticated atmosphere make it ideal for those seeking a glamorous and vibrant holiday celebration. On the other hand, Osaka's cozy and relaxed ambiance, friendly locals, and charming decorations create a warm and inviting setting, perfect for a more laid-back and local-flavored Christmas experience. Whether you prefer Tokyo's grand displays and cosmopolitan vibe or Osaka's intimate celebrations and vibrant street scene, both cities provide magical and memorable ways to enjoy the festive spirit of Christmas in Japan.
Enjoy the Winter Lights in Tokyo!
Photo by Pixta
The Christmas season is when the Tokyo cityscape truly shines. If you are visiting Japan during the winter, please enjoy the illumination with warm clothing.
The sea of lights is sure to fascinate visitors, perhaps even moving some to tears. This is a chance to make memories while taking in the magical atmosphere.
Why not enjoy a special Christmas atmosphere that is unique to Japan?
Read also
Main image by Pixta
This article is a revised version of the original published in November 2015.
This is the official account of MATCHA's editorial department. Our articles feature useful travel information for visitors to Japan, from how-to guides to recommended places to visit.
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