Reading view

Mikasa Hokkai Bon Odori 2026: A Summer Day Trip from Sapporo

Mikasa Hokkai Bon Odori: A Live Music Event

札幌から日帰り可能!2026年夏は三笠の「北海盆おどり」へ出かけよう

Mikasa City, located in central Hokkaido, is an hour drive away from Sapporo. From Shin-Chitose Airport, the drive takes an hour and a half. The city, which can be used as a hub for sightseeing in the area, is easy to access, and perfect as a day trip destination. Mikasa has a history of hosting a Bon odori event, accompanied by live music.

札幌から日帰り可能!2026年夏は三笠の「北海盆おどり」へ出かけよう

Bon odori derives from a Buddhist ritual to send off the spirit of our ancestors. It has become a summertime attraction, and a place for community interaction, as well. The unique development of Mikasa Hokkai Bon Odori was also influenced by the folk culture of coal miners.

It is held at Mikasa Chuo Park. Visitors from out of town, along with the locals, annually gather at the event to join the circle of traditional dancing accompanied by live music.

This article is about the highlights of Mikasa Hokkai Bon Odori, and the appeals of the host city.

History, Highlights, and Event Period

札幌から日帰り可能!2026年夏は三笠の「北海盆おどり」へ出かけよう

Mikasa City is known as the birthplace of Hokkai Bon-uta, a Japanese folk song. The history of the local coal mine is related to the song.

For 110 years from 1879 to 1989, Mikasa prospered as a coal town. People gathered from all over Japan to work at the mine. Betcho-bushi, a folk song sung at the annual Bon odori, supported the hard work of the miners.

After WWII, Kozan Imai, known as the godfather of Hokkaido folk songs, arranged the music and lyrics of Betcho-bushi and released a song titled Hokkai Tanko-bushi. It was later recorded as Hokkai Bon-uta, which became famous all over Japan, and Mikasa was widely acknowledged as its place of origin.

札幌から日帰り可能!2026年夏は三笠の「北海盆おどり」へ出かけよう

The current event is held over 3 days, from August 13th to 15th. Various events, such as a coal-carrying race, summer fireworks display, and a romantic lantern procession are scheduled, along with the traditional Bon odori.

札幌から日帰り可能!2026年夏は三笠の「北海盆おどり」へ出かけよう

The yagura, a three layered structure, is about 8 meters in height, with the singers and musicians performing from the top floor. There is a rental yukata service at Mikasa Civic Hall, located next to the park. As of August 2025, the charge is 1,500 yen. Those who have just happened to drop by will still be able to enjoy the atmosphere.

札幌から日帰り可能!2026年夏は三笠の「北海盆おどり」へ出かけよう

Join the Locals and Dance

During the daytime, unique events such as a coal-carrying race, imitation show, and an idol performance will be held. The music for the Bon odori starts around 17:00.

札幌から日帰り可能!2026年夏は三笠の「北海盆おどり」へ出かけよう

The three-layered, 8-meter-tall yagura will be decorated with lanterns, creating a dreamy scene at sunset. The Hokkai Bon-uta singer, along with musicians playing the Japanese flute and drum, will be providing the music with powerful song and rhythm resonating continuously throughout the venue.

札幌から日帰り可能!2026年夏は三笠の「北海盆おどり」へ出かけよう

While some people may be overwhelmed by the atmosphere, join the circle of locals who are dancing happily with smiles, and you'll find yourself moving along to their movements.

The singer's strong voice, accentuated by the drum, and the merry air created by the locals, will make a wonderful memory.

札幌から日帰り可能!2026年夏は三笠の「北海盆おどり」へ出かけよう

There are various Bon odori programs, such as the adorable children's Bon odori, the incredibly popular children's costume Bon odori, and Mikasa Hokkai Bon Odori, which is for people of all ages. Participants can take a break between dances or join a program they prefer, enjoying the event at their own pace.

Food Stalls

札幌から日帰り可能!2026年夏は三笠の「北海盆おどり」へ出かけよう

Mikasa Chuo Park will be divided into west and east areas, with the yagura located at the former, and food stalls at the latter. There will be about 50 booths, providing fragrant and colorful looking dishes to brighten the festive summer night.

札幌から日帰り可能!2026年夏は三笠の「北海盆おどり」へ出かけよう

Along with staple dishes such as yakisoba, cotton candy, and churros, popular local eateries, including Mikasa Wine, will also be present.

While the wine can be purchased at Roadside Station Mikasa and liquor shops, they will be specially on sale at the event. The grapes are cultivated from the hilly area of Mikasa, nurtured by the region's coal-mining history and soil that contains ammonite fossils from tens of millions year ago.

On the day of the event, wine samplings will be available before purchase.

札幌から日帰り可能!2026年夏は三笠の「北海盆おどり」へ出かけよう

The following is a list of popular local eateries that will have food stalls at the event. It'd also be fun to visit their physical stores after the event.

2 Beans Coffee: A Mobile Coffee Stand

札幌から日帰り可能!2026年夏は三笠の「北海盆おどり」へ出かけよう

2 Beans Coffee, established in 2019 and based in Mikasa City, is a food truck serving freshly brewed coffee.

The most popular menu at the event is the Mikasa latte, made in the image of a coal mine. The black and white drink is quite picturesque. It is stylish, and perfect for those who want to taste something delicious during the trip.

Rire-Sourire, a specialty store handling financier, is an affiliated eatery located in Mikasa. They serve confections which are ideal as souvenirs, made from Hokkaido products.
[place_master_id=17140 show_photos embed]

[place_master_id=17141 show_photos embed]

Namae ga Nai Pan-ya: Popular With the Kids!

札幌から日帰り可能!2026年夏は三笠の「北海盆おどり」へ出かけよう

Namae ga Nai Pan-ya (A Bakery with No Name) started as a store where children can buy bread with their allowance. All products, with the exception of sandwich bread, cost no more than 200 yen.

Fried bread, Kouign-amann, along with seasonal vegetable buns filled with zunda or pumpkin paste, are the popular products. This is a bakery for people of all ages.

The breads are freshly baked with Hokkaido wheat. Be sure to check them as a snack, or a souvenir.

[place_master_id=17142 show_photos embed]

Omusubi Kororin: A Specialty Shop Using Local Rice

札幌から日帰り可能!2026年夏は三笠の「北海盆おどり」へ出かけよう

Omusubi Kororin, which opened in 2025, is a specialty store offering onigiri (omusubi) made with Mikasa rice.

They serve periodic menus such as autumn salmon and butter omusubi, or seaweed rice and salted mackerel omusubi, along with seasonal miso soups, which can be purchased as a set menu.

This local cuisine is ideal for a snack or breakfast. Omusubi Kororin runs as a food truck with its location and business hours posted on their Instagram account.

[place_master_id=17143 show_photos embed]

Amaimono Club: Freshly Prepared Homemade Treats

札幌から日帰り可能!2026年夏は三笠の「北海盆おどり」へ出かけよう

Amaimono Club, which opened in 2021, is managed by the patissier Sota Tanaka. The colorful, cute meringue cookies, which have a soft, melting texture, are popular items sold at the event.

Their physical store also offers kamayaki pudding, made with Hokkaido products, and financier, which is perfect for a souvenir. In the daytime, Amaimono Club serves snacks, coffee and tea, while serving liquor and light meals at night.

[place_master_id=17165 show_photos embed]

Visit Ichikishiri Shrine Before the Festivities

札幌から日帰り可能!2026年夏は三笠の「北海盆おどり」へ出かけよう

From Mikasa Chuo park, it is a 15 minute walk to Ichikishiri Shrine. Ichikishiri is the former place name for Mikasa.

In the Meiji Period, it started from a small shrine in the pioneer days of Hokkaido, and developed as the guardian deity of the area. The main building and the torii gate stand out against the backdrop of lush trees and flowers.

A sacred forest, a place to welcome the deities, stands behind the shrine. It is famous as a forest where owls raise their chicks, so if the time is right, visitors may be able to enjoy birdwatching.

札幌から日帰り可能!2026年夏は三笠の「北海盆おどり」へ出かけよう

Before the worship, be sure to follow the procedure mentioned below, at the chozu-ya.

    1. Use the water ladle with your right hand and wash your left hand.

    2. Wash your right hand with the ladle in the left.

    3. Use the ladle with your right hand again, pour some water into your left hand, and rinse your mouth.

    4. Wash your left hand one more time and cleanse the ladle handle.

During certain seasons, flowers may be floating on the water basin, which is a sight to behold.

Two bows, two claps, and one bow is the formal way to worship. The procedure consists of two deep bows, two loud hand claps in front of the chest, a prayer with eyes closed, and another deep bow at the end.

札幌から日帰り可能!2026年夏は三笠の「北海盆おどり」へ出かけよう

A visit to the shrine will surely cleanse and calm one's mind. Don't forget to drop by before joining the Bon odori.

Mikasa City Museum: Experience a World from 100 Million Years Ago

札幌から日帰り可能!2026年夏は三笠の「北海盆おどり」へ出かけよう

The Mikasa City Museum, which boasts one of the largest ammonite collections in Japan, is a must-visit spot for those visiting on a day trip. There are about 3,000 materials, including exhibitions regarding the city's history, approximately 600 ammonite samples, and a fossil of Ezo Mikasa-ryu (an ancient reptile), which is designated by the Japanese government as a natural monument.

Mikasa City is certified by the Japanese Geoparks Network. The city is well-known as the spot to experience a 100 million years of time in strata, from the Cretaceous Period (about 100 million years ago) to the modern, coal-mining days.

札幌から日帰り可能!2026年夏は三笠の「北海盆おどり」へ出かけよう

Stratum is crucial to any discussion of Mikasa. The ammonites, which used to swim in the sea, can be found from the 100 million years old stratum, and coal was mined from the 50 million years old stratum.

札幌から日帰り可能!2026年夏は三笠の「北海盆おどり」へ出かけよう

Step outside the museum and visitors can see actual strata, along with the former Ponbetsu Coal Mine. They can also experience a time trip to 100 million years ago. Please note that some areas are restricted to the public.

The Bon odori is the legacy of the coal miners, who danced during their short vacation. With the knowledge of the strata from the museum, visitors joining the dance will be able to experience Mikasa's culture even more deeply.

Enjoy the Japanese Summer in Mikasa

A trip to Mikasa offers a history tour of coal mining spanning 110 years, ammonites from 100 million years ago, and unique local cuisines. At the end, visitors can join the Mikasa Hokkai Bon Odori, and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere with the locals that will bring you smiles.

Mikasa, only an hour drive away from Sapporo, can be accessed easily. Take a summer trip to the city this year to enjoy the regional dishes and a Bon odori event accompanied by live music. It will liven both the mind and body.

Sponsored by Mikasa City Board of Education

Tokyo Illuminations 2025: Top 12 Christmas Lights and Events

Tokyo Winter Lights: From November to January

In winter, particularly around the Christmas season, various dazzling illumination events light up the Tokyo cityscape. These popular locations are continually updated with new attractions each year and draw large crowds of visitors.

Below is a list of 12 illumination events in Tokyo taking place from November 2025 to early 2026.

12 Dazzling Illuminations in Tokyo 2025-2026

1. Roppongi Hills Christmas 2025
2. The Row of Zelkova Trees in Omotesando
3. Marunouchi Illumination 2025: Near Tokyo Station
4. Tokyo Snow Dome City 2025
5. Yomiuriland Jewellumination
6. HIBIYA Magic Time Illumination
7. Tokyo Mega Illumination 2025 - 2026
8. TOKYO ILLUMILIA 2025 - 2026
9. Tokyo Midtown - MIDTOWN WINTER LIGHTS
10. Tokyo Skytree Town Dream Christmas 2025
11. Odaiba Illumination YAKEI Christmas
12. Yebisu Garden Place Winter Illuminations

Ninja WiFi discount

1. Roppongi Hills Christmas 2025

Roppongi Hills Christmas 2025

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 800,000 LED lights at night, becoming a truly romantic spot in winter.

In 2025, the Keyakizaka Illumination in Ropongi takes place from November 4 to December 25, every day from 17:00 to 23:00. Together with the Tokyo Tower in the background, it creates a dreamlike and beautiful scenery.

Various other locations in Roppongi Hills, such as 66 Plaza, Mohri Garden, West Walk, and Tokyo City View, all offer different types of lighting.

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 some of the special features of this year's Roppongi Hills Christmas.

Roppongi Hills Christmas Market 2025

Roppongi Hills Christmas 2025

This year marks the 19th anniversary of the Roppongi Hills Christmas Market.

10 shops will line the area, offering authentic German Christmas goods, glühwein (mulled wine), sausages, and other traditional German cuisine, bringing you a heartwarming Christmas experience.

Dates: November 22 - December 25, 2025
Hours: 11:00 - 21:00

66 Plaza: Luminous Bouquet

Roppongi Hills Christmas 2025

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

Roppongi Hills Christmas 2025: Event Details

Dates: November 4 - December 25, 2025
Official website: https://www.roppongihills.com/sp/christmashills/

2. The Row of Zelkova Trees in Omotesando

Tokyo Illumination in Omotesando

Photo by Pixta

The row of zelkova trees, a signature hallmark of Tokyo's 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, 2025 - January 5, 2026
*From December 29 to January 5, only the bushes lining the street will be adorned with lights.
Hours: 17:00 - 22:00

3. Marunouchi Illumination 2025: Near Tokyo Station

Winter Illuminations in Tokyo

Photo by Pixta

The Marunouchi Illumination 2025 is a seasonal tradition where the trees lining the 1.2-kilometer Marunouchi Nakadori Avenue are decorated with champagne gold lights.

The avenue is just a one-minute walk from the Marunouchi Exit of Tokyo Station (via JR Line or Tokyo Metro). The street's trees are elegantly draped in sparkling champagne gold lights.

This display is also eco-friendly: it uses an energy-saving system where the electricity is generated entirely by solar or wind power.

Marunouchi Illumination 2025

Picture courtesy of PR Times

Additionally, a section of Gyoko-dori Avenue (connecting Tokyo Station and the Imperial Palace Outer Garden) will also feature illuminations from November 25 to December 25.

In addition to highlights like the Marunouchi Street Park Winter event, featuring coffee, pizza, and hot stew booths, there will also be a Christmas Market on Nakadori Avenue.

Marunouchi Illumination 2025

Nakadori Avenue
Dates: November 13, 2025 - February 15, 2026
Hours: 16:00 to 23:00
*From December 1 to 31, the illumination will start at 16:00 and last until midnight.

Gyokodori Avenue
Dates: November 25 - December 25, 2025
Hours: 16:00 to 24:00

MARUNOUCHI BRIGHT HOLIDAY 2025 - Disney JOYFUL MOMENTS

MARUNOUCHI BRIGHT HOLIDAY 2025 Disney JOYFUL MOMENTS

Picture courtesy of PR Times

The entire Marunouchi area offers a variety of other Christmas events as well. This year's theme is "MARUNOUCHI BRIGHT HOLIDAY 2025 - Disney JOYFUL MOMENTS", featuring displays and decorations inspired by popular Disney works.

Visit facilities like the Marunouchi Building, Shin-Marunouchi Building, and Marunouchi Oazo to enjoy a festive atmosphere.

MARUNOUCHI BRIGHT HOLIDAY 2025 - Disney JOYFUL MOMENTS

Dates: November 13, 2025 - January 4, 2026
Website: https://www.marunouchi.com/pickup/event/7575/

4. Tokyo Snow Dome City 2025

Winter Illuminations in Tokyo

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!
TOKYO SNOW DOME CITY
Dates: November 17, 2025 - March 1, 2026
Light-up hours: 17:00 - 00:00
Website: Tokyo Snow Dome City
Please note that the illumination time will differ according to the area and period.

5. Yomiuriland Jewellumination 2025

Winter Illuminations in Tokyo

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.

The grand theme of the Jewellumination in 2025 is "Light is Love" while the subtheme is "LIGHT HOP," which hints at soaring high, inspired by the lights. Visit to enjoy illuminated rides, dazzling fountain shows, and plenty of opportunities to take amazing photos.

Yomiuriland can be reached in about 10 to 15 minutes by bus from either Keio Yomiuri-Land Station (via the Keio Line) or Yomiuriland-mae Station (via the Odakyu Line).

Yomiuriland Jewellumination 2025

Dates: October 23, 2025 - end of March, 2025
Hours: 16:00 - 20:30

6. HIBIYA Magic Time Illumination 2025

Winter Illuminations in Tokyo

The HIBIYA Magic Time Illumination is an illumination event themed around "magical moments," leveraging the distinct character of Hibiya as an entertainment town with deep ties to film and music.

HIBIYA Magic Time SQUARE 2025, centered at Hibiya Step Plaza, will create a vibrant, brightly-lit space that evokes a major metropolis where people from around the globe connect.

A highlight this year is a magnificent tree inspired by Disney Animation Studios’ new film, "Zootopia 2". Scaled up to 8 meters, this main tree features full-color illumination that, combined with surrounding cube lights, provides a dynamic, three-dimensional visual experience.

Illumination will also be extended to the tree near the Grand Staircase and the Hibiya Step Plaza perimeter, ensuring the entire area sparkles even more brilliantly.

Winter Illuminations in Tokyo

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.

HIBIYA Magic Time Illumination 2025

Dates: November 13, 2025 - February 28, 2026
Hours: 16:00 - 23:00
Website: https://www.hibiya.tokyo-midtown.com/jp/event/7174/
Location: Hibiya Nakadori/Tokyo Midtown Hibiya Exterior (Hibiya Step Plaza/6F Park View Garden)

7. Tokyo Mega Illumination 2025 - 2026

Winter Illuminations in Tokyo

Tokyo Mega Illumination, hosted inside the Oi Racecourse from November 1 to January 11, 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.

Winter Illuminations in Tokyo

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 racecourse. 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 2025 - 2026

Dates: November 1, 2025 - January 11, 2026
Official website: https://www.tokyomegaillumi.jp/

8. TOKYO ILLUMILIA 2025 - 2026

Tokyo Winter Illuminations

Picture courtesy of PR Times

TOKYO ILLUMILIA illuminates the Yaesu and Nihonbashi districts, centered on Nihonbashi Sakura Dori, the street connecting the Yaesu Exit of Tokyo Station to Nihonbashi.

As a newly developed area at the dawn of the Edo period, this district has continuously evolved and been rebuilt over time. Launched in 2009, TOKYO ILLUMILIA carries on the history, culture, and spirit of Edo—which thrived as a center of commerce and activity—and aims to blend the aspirations of its visitors with the enduring vitality of the community.

The various buildings near the Yaesu Exit of Tokyo Station, including Yaesu Terrace, will be hosting illumination events and seasonal decorations.

TOKYO ILLUMILIA 2025 - 2026

Dates: November 6, 2025 - February 14, 2026
Hours: 16:30 - 23:30
Website: https://tokyoillumilia.net/

9. Tokyo Midtown Roppongi: MIDTOWN CHRISTMAS 2025

Winter Illuminations in Tokyo

Picture courtesy of PR Times

Tokyo Midtown, a shopping complex in Roppongi, will host MIDTOWN CHRISTMAS 2025 from November 13 to December 25, 2025. This year's concept is "Your Christmas Story," where the glittering illuminations transform the Midtown Garden, inviting you to begin your own special "Christmas Story" the moment you step inside.

In the Midtown Garden, the popular illumination show from last year returns, offering a magical white Christmas-like atmosphere complete with shimmering soap bubbles and falling snow effects.

Synchronized with original music, the show provides a dramatic experience woven from light and sound. The winter evening is further enhanced by a real fir tree bathed in gold light and the "Walk of Light," a pathway of soft gold illumination designed to create lasting memories for visitors.

Santa Tree Tokyo Midtown

Picture courtesy of PR Times

Indoors, a delightful Christmas scene unfolds, featuring the "Santa Tree," which gathers approximately 1,600 miniature Santas, and the "Christmas Marche," where you can find an array of festive holiday items. Enjoy a wonderful Christmas season with these unique and distinct light displays!

MIDTOWN CHRISTMAS 2025

Dates: November 13 - December 25, 2025
Website: https://www.tokyo-midtown.com/jp/

10. Tokyo Skytree Town Dream Christmas 2025

Winter Illuminations in Tokyo

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 2025 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.

Winter Illuminations in Tokyo

Picture courtesy of PR Times

The Tokyo Skytree's Christmas special lighting design will be completely renewed for the first time since its grand opening! The new display will feature three changing themes: the "Ornament Tree," the "Elegant Tree," and "Santa Claus."

Come enjoy a special holiday moment with the world's tallest "Christmas tree."

Winter Illuminations in Tokyo

Picture courtesy of PR Times

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 2025

Dates: November 1 to December 25, 2025
Illuminations Hours: 16:00 - 24:00

Christmas Market: 11:00 - 22:00 (L.O. 21:00) Location: Tokyo Skytree Town 4F Sky Arena

11. Odaiba Illumination YAKEI Christmas

Winter Illuminations in Tokyo

Picture courtesy of PR Times

Odaiba is a popular spot for its YAKEI illuminations, held 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.

Winter Illuminations in Tokyo

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/yakei/

12. Yebisu Garden Place Illuminations and Christmas Marche

Winter Illuminations in Tokyo

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 installations, 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.

Winter Illuminations in Tokyo

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 Marche! Visitors can participate in seasonal treats and activities such as delicious European food, ice skating, and taking photos at the Christmas photo spots.

Yebisu Garden Place Illuminations and Christmas Marche

Illumination
Dates: November 8, 2025 - March 1, 2026
Hours: 16:00 - 23:00

Christmas Marche
Dates: November 8 - December 25, 2025
Hours: weekdays 17:00 - 20:00、weekends and holidays 12:00 - 20:00

Official website: https://gardenplace.jp/event/detail/783

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!

Winter Illuminations 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?

Main image by Pixta

❌