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Yesterday — 28 October 2025Main stream

Netflix CTO announces interactive real-time voting for live content

28 October 2025 at 23:06
While watching live content, viewers will be able to vote to directly influence the outcome of what they're watching on their TV or mobile device.

Sandbox Racer Wreckreation Out Now on PC, PS5, and Xbox Series X/S

28 October 2025 at 18:37

Wreckreation logo above a landscape with sports cars racing on twisting tracks and roads.

Wrekcreation, the sandbox open-world arcade racing game from Three Fields Entertainment, a studio founded by former Criterion developers who worked on the Burnout series, is out now on PC, PS5, and Xbox Series X/S. Published by THQ Nordic, Wreckreation gives players the freedom to create whatever kinds of tracks they want, from the kinds of things you'd only expect to see in Hot Wheels Unleashed to something super realistic if that's more your speed, and race the wide variety of vehicles on them to your heart's content. With more than 400 square kilometres of space to create tracks in and […]

Read full article at https://wccftech.com/sandbox-racer-wreckreation-out-now-pc-ps5-xbox-series/

TechCrunch Disrupt 2025: Day 2

28 October 2025 at 18:00
Second day of TechCrunch Disrupt 2025 at San Francisco's Moscone West. Here's the rundown on what to expect, including the 50% discount on passes for remainder of the event.
Before yesterdayMain stream

TechCrunch Disrupt 2025: Day 1

27 October 2025 at 18:00
Today is the first day of TechCrunch Disrupt 2025, where 10,000 founders, investors, and builders are flooding Moscone West for a nonstop run of ideas, demos, and deals. The energy is electric, the conversations are everywhere, and the breakthroughs are only just beginning. Don't miss out. Register here or head straight to Moscone West to join.

The Outer Worlds 2 Guide – Do These Five Things First

25 October 2025 at 02:24

Futuristic building with intricate architecture set against a vivid sunset sky in a vibrant, alien landscape.

Obsidian Entertainment's latest role-playing game, The Outer Worlds 2, is here, and there's a lot to do in this new space-faring adventure. The planets you visit have bigger maps to run through, there are more weapons to use and modify, people to meet and talk to, and plenty more. But there are five things that you should absolutely do first, right when you get off your ship, the Incognito, and touch down on the planet Eden and on Paradise Island. They'll make your playthrough run a lot smoother, and start you off on the right foot. The Outer Worlds 2 […]

Read full article at https://wccftech.com/how-to/the-outer-worlds-2-best-starter-skills-perks-guide/

The Outer Worlds 2 PC Performance Benchmarks: Unreal Engine 5 Strikes Again

25 October 2025 at 01:00

The Outer Worlds 2 poster with a cartoon character holding a gun, Radeon and GeForce RTX graphics cards floating.

Here are our PC performance benchmarks for The Outer Worlds 2, the latest AAA RPG with raytracing & several upscaling features. The Outer Worlds 2 Features Raytracing & Several PC Specific-Features Such as Upscaling & More, Based on Unreal Engine 5 With HW-RT Support The Outer Worlds 2 is the sequel to Obsidian Entertainment's The Outer Worlds. Obsidian Entertainment needs no introduction, as many of you must be familiar with some of their classics, such as Fallout New Vegas, KOTR II, Alpha Protocol, Pillars of Eternity, and the very recent Avowed. The prequel was released back in 2019 and was […]

Read full article at https://wccftech.com/the-outer-worlds-2-pc-performance-benchmarks/

The Outer Worlds 2 Tips and Tricks Guide

24 October 2025 at 21:00

Two characters in futuristic outfits confront each other inside a rocky cave setting, one holding a colorful sci-fi weapon.

The Outer Worlds 2 is finally here, and before you jump into Obsidian Entertainment's new space-faring adventure in its dystopian world, this guide will help give you a leg-up with some tips and tricks to survive and thrive in The Outer Worlds 2. It should go without saying that I won't be delving into any story spoilers, but incase it needed to be said, there it is. If you want to check out more about The Outer Worlds 2, then go look at my full review for the game. The Outer Worlds 2 Tips and Tricks Guide ABL: Always Be […]

Read full article at https://wccftech.com/how-to/the-outer-worlds-2-tips-and-tricks-guide/

TechCrunch Disrupt 2025 Side Events schedule: Women in Tech, MongoDB, Silkroad Innovation Hub, and more to host

24 October 2025 at 19:30
With TechCrunch Disrupt 2025 right around the corner, we’re thrilled to introduce the companies hosting Side Events that will extend the buzz and excitement to the thousands of attendees and Silicon Valley locals alike.

The full breakout session agenda at TechCrunch Disrupt 2025

24 October 2025 at 19:00
The full Disrupt 2025 breakout session agenda is now live. Join for tactical, small-group learning on AI, fundraising, M&A, workflows, and more. Browse the full lineup and register today to save up to $444, and get 60% off a second pass before prices rise on October 27.

Ticket savings countdown — just 3 days until TechCrunch Disrupt 2025 turns San Francisco into startup city

24 October 2025 at 18:00
Three days. That’s it. TechCrunch Disrupt 2025 — the startup world’s biggest stage — kicks off October 27 – 29 at Moscone West in San Francisco. When Disrupt 2025 arrives, the city doesn’t just host innovation — it amplifies it, transforming San Francisco into a living showcase of ideas, products, and partnerships driving the next wave of tech. Register before prices hike in 3 days.

Tokyo Illuminations 2025: Top 12 Christmas Lights and Events

22 October 2025 at 15:00

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

[Osaka Feature] A Must-See for Golf Enthusiasts! An Unforgettable Shot on a Seaside Course!

Osaka Golf Club

Known by those in the know-- and a favorite among pros-- Osaka Golf Club is a prestigious course just 40-minutes from the Kansai International Airport!

This seaside course, one of the finest in Kansai, features a beautiful 18-hole layout designed by Osamu Ueda. It has been ranked in Rolex's "The World's Top 1000 Golf Courses" (2010), and GOLF.com's "Top 100 Courses in Asia-Pacific" (2023), among other distinctions.

Retro-modern, and a refined front-desk and lounge<br />
Retro-modern, and a refined front-desk and lounge
Pro Shop<br />
Pro Shop

A feature video introducing the Osaka Golf Club is also available on Youtube (Laugh & Rough Ch.). It includes a special interview with the General Manager and an in-house pro-exclusive content you won't find elsewhere, so be sure to also check it out!


An 18-Hole Seaside Challenge with Strategic Brilliance

Opened in 1938 (Showa 13), Osaka Golf Club celebrates its 88th-year this year (2025 at time of writing). At its opening, the course measured 6,700-yards (Out 3,375-yards, In 3,325-yards), Par 72-- one of the most challenging in Japan, famed for stoking the competitive spirit.

Although the club was temporarily closed due to wartime circumstances, it was elegantly remodeled and re-opened after 16-years thanks to strong requests from locals and members, as well as the efforts of the first chairman, and many others. Since then, it has been beloved by golfers from Japan and abroad as a community-rooted golf club.

Map (after renewal)<br />
Map (after renewal)

The club's greatest charm is its expansive panoramic ocean view. The most popular-- and proudly recommended by the general manager is the 7th Hole.

Against the backdrop of the calm blue sea, you can take in the Kansai International Airport, Awaji Island, Kobe's Cityscape, and even Mt. Rokko-- giving you the sensation of playing along the horizon where the sky meets the sea.


This view instantly captivates first-time visitors and keeps them coming back. In addition to the sweeping views of the Osaka Bay, you can also see planes arriving and departing from Kansai International Airport. Access is also excellent with only 40-minutes from the airport. Despite its proximity to the city, the course offers a comfortable golf experience amid the rich nature and stunning scenery.

The 7th hole offers a view of Osaka Bay<br />
The 7th hole offers a view of Osaka Bay

Of course, there's more to the its reputation than just beautiful views. Each hole has a distinct personality shaped by the complex coastal terrain-- another hallmark of the Osaka Golf Club. Every round reveals fresh challenges and the joy of crafting strategies never ends. The design invites repeat play without getting tired of the course, which fuels players' desire to take on new challenges which is one of its biggest draws.

As you can see from the drone footage, the course makes deft use of the rolling hills, demanding distance control and accuracy. If you go in, you might escape only to get caught by the next bunker-- especially tough for beginners. According to the general manager, "the strategy is learning how to avoid going in the bunker", which while easier said than done, players who relish in crafting their technique, is a stage well worth the challenge.

The third hole by the sea<br />
The third hole by the sea

Furthermore, there are over 80 deep bunkers scattered throughout the course, including the signature Allison Bunkers, which are located throughout the course. Some bunkers are so positioned that if you hit one into one, even if you manage to escape, you'll end up trapped in the bunker right next to it, making them particularly formidable for beginners. According to the manager, "The strategy is to devise ways to avoid hitting one into the bunker." For players who value strategy, this is truly a challenging course worth playing on.

The 14th hole has a green surrounded by bunkers<br />
The 14th hole has a green surrounded by bunkers

For reservations and details, click here (Japanese)

We also interviewed an in-house pro golfer for this feature and gathered some valuable insights about what makes the Osaka Golf Club so special. Check out the Youtube video to get the full details!

(Youtube) See the full play and interview here!

After the Round-- Guide to the Facilities

A smooth round is important for your flow. Relaxing spaces and Services before and after the play make the overall experience richer and more satisfying. Here are some of the facilities in the Osaka Golf Club perfect for a comfortable break.

Teahouse

Inside the course, you'll find a charming cottage-style teahouse in warm brown tones. Step by between holes for a wide variety of drinks and sweets, including the "Arida Mikan Ice Bar", made with high-quality mandarins from the Wakayama Prefecture! A wide selection of snacks is also available for a relaxing break.

The Teahouse<br />
The Teahouse

After a few holes, take a short rest to reset before tackling on the next stretch. A light refresh here is sure to power your play!

Furthermore, the currently running "NANKAI Wellness Tourism" special tour for foreign visitors to Japan also includes a service that allows you to freely enjoy a variety of drinks and snacks provided at the tea shop. Please come and experience the attentive hospitality that is unique to Osaka Golf Club.

[NANKAI Wellness Tourism Inquiries]
Name: Nankai Travel International Co.,INC
TEL +81-06-6641-4010
e-mail: medical@geo-nti.co.jp

Restaurant

You can enjoy a Japanese-Western fusion breakfast and lunch made with plenty of seasonal ingredients.

Just hearing about the menu will whet your appetite, with dishes such as fragrantly grilled beef steak, flavorful tantanmen noodles, and a bowl of extremely fresh tuna and boiled whitebait. You can truly enjoy a luxurious time that will satisfy both your body and mind.

(Left) Beef steak | (Right) Whitebait bowl<br />
(Left) Beef steak | (Right) Whitebait bowl

VIP Room

Exclusively for guests who have applied for "NANKAI Wellness Tourism," you can enjoy lunch in the VIP VIP room. This space, which is not open to the general public, is truly a special place reserved for VIPs in both name and reality. In a refined atmosphere exuding high status, you can savor exquisite cuisine while gazing out at the beautiful seascape and majestic skyline of the course. This is a luxurious experience that can only be found at a prestigious golf club.

VIP room<br />
VIP room

Bath House

The bathroom is a bright and clean space with natural light streaming in through the large windows. It's the perfect place to soothe your fatigue after a round of golf and you can spend some relaxing time there. The simple yet calming atmosphere makes it a place where you can refresh both your body and mind.

Relax your body and mind in the warm water<br />
Relax your body and mind in the warm water

↓If hot water alone isn't enough for you, set off on a tour of Wakayama's hot springs.

Name: Nankai Travel International Co.,INC
TEL +81-06-6641-4010
e-mail: medical@geo-nti.co.jp

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