Matsushima Illuminations 2026: Autumn Leaves and Umbrellas

Until November 23! Autumn Illuminations at Matsushima Rikyu

Matsushima Rikyu, a sightseeing complex near Sendai, will host its Autumn Leaves Illumination 2026 from October 24 to November 23.

Located in Matsushima, one of Japan’s Three Most Scenic Views, the venue combines illuminated maple trees with shimmering reflections, traditional Japanese umbrella displays, and projection mapping.

This year brings a new version of the popular umbrella installation, plus a search for a special pink maple hidden in the garden.

Brilliant Autumn Leaves and a Unique Ten-Sided Tower

More than 100 Japanese maple trees bring rich autumn colors to Matsushima Rikyu’s gardens and surrounding hills.

After sunset, the illuminated foliage frames the venue’s distinctive three-story, ten-sided tower, the only surviving structure of its kind in Japan.

The garden’s pool, designed to resemble Matsushima Bay, reflects the colorful leaves and lights, creating beautiful views to enjoy during an evening stroll.

The illumination received a Lighting Promotion Award from the Illuminating Engineering Institute of Japan in 2020.

Projection Mapping Through Matsushima’s Seasons and History

The tower also becomes the centerpiece of a projection mapping show inspired by Matsushima’s changing seasons and history.

Imagined as a time machine made of light, it takes visitors on a journey from the formation of the area’s geological layers thousands of years ago to the Heian period, when Matsushima inspired poets, and onward into the future.

The display combines historical storytelling with the enduring beauty of Japan’s four seasons.

Colorful Japanese Umbrellas and a Hidden Pink Maple

The Illuminated Japanese Umbrella Screen returns with a new design expressing the changing autumn scenery of Matsushima.

Rows of colorful traditional umbrellas glow after dark, with their reflections extending across the heart-shaped pool. The setting was designated a Lovers’ Sanctuary in 2022.

Visitors can also look for a special maple hidden in the garden as part of the Lucky Pink Maple activity, an extra detail to discover while exploring the illuminated grounds.

Capture Your Visit in a Photo Contest

Visitors can enter the event’s photo contest by sharing photographs or short videos on Instagram with the hashtag #松島離宮紅葉

Entries are accepted throughout the event period, with awards for autumn scenery, the tower, creative short videos, and heartwarming moments with family or friends.

The grand prize is 20,000 yen, while three additional category winners will each receive 10,000 yen. Results will be announced on Matsushima Rikyu’s official Instagram account by December 7, 2026.

Matsushima Rikyu Autumn Leaves Illumination 2026

Dates: October 24–November 23, 2026
Venue: Matsushima Rikyu, Miyagi Prefecture
Hours: 16:30–21:00; last admission at 20:45

Admission: Adults and junior high school students: 1,300 yen; elementary school students and younger: free
Access: One minute on foot from Matsushima-Kaigan Station on the JR Senseki Line
Parking: Paid parking available at the adjacent prefectural parking lots No. 4 and No. 5
Notes: Held rain or shine; pets welcome

Advance tickets: Purchase here
Official details: https://rikyu-m.com/koyo/ (Japanese)

Information source: PR Times