When you think of winter, Christmas is probably the first thing to come to your mind, isn’t it? In Japan, Christmas is a big event too, with dazzling illuminations lighting up the city and various festive events taking place. In this guide, we’ll introduce some of the must-visit Christmas illumination spots and markets in Tokyo.
(updated on the 13 Nov 2024)
Christmas in Japan
Christmas is one of the most celebrated events in Japan, though it differs slightly from its Western counterpart. In many Western countries, Christmas is a religious, family-centred holiday. In Japan, however, it’s known as a romantic event often spent with a partner or close friends. Especially for couples, Christmas is a special occasion for romantic dinners, trips, and dates at popular illumination spots.
That said, there are some shared customs. Just like in the West, Japan decorates Christmas trees and receives gifts from Santa Claus. Cities are adorned with Christmas lights, and many shopping malls and restaurants offer special Christmas-themed menus and events, making it a beloved part of the winter season.
Tokyo Christmas Illuminations 2024
Roppongi Christmas Market & Illuminations
Roppongi is one of Tokyo’s largest Christmas hubs. The Roppongi Hills Christmas Market offers hot wine, warm snacks and sells Christmas ornaments. Keyakizaka Street is transformed into a snowy wonderland, and a giant Christmas tree is set up in the Mohri Garden.
- Location: Roppongi Hills, O-yane Plaza, Mohri Garden, Keyakizaka Street
- Dates & Time: Nov 7, 2024 – Dec 25, 2024, 17:00–23:00 (Illuminations) / Nov 23, 2024 – Dec 25, 2024 (Christmas Market)
- Price: Free
- Official site: https://www.roppongihills.com/
Marunouchi Illuminations
For over 20 years, Marunouchi has been one of Tokyo’s iconic Christmas illuminations. The area’s trees are lit up with about 1.2 million golden lights, creating a luxurious atmosphere perfect for a romantic evening. In 2024, the Christmas market is expected to be bigger than ever before.
- Location: Marunouchi, near Tokyo Station
- Dates & Time: Nov 14, 2024 – Feb , 2025, 16:00–23:00
- Price: Free
- Official site: None
Ebisu Garden Place Illuminations
Home to one of the world’s largest Baccarat crystal chandeliers and a 10-metre-tall Christmas tree decorated with over 10,000 LED lights. Enjoy a Christmas market atmosphere with food trucks serving meals and hot drinks.
- Location: Ebisu Garden Place, near Ebisu Station
- Dates & Time: Nov 9, 2024 – Feb 23, 2025, 16:00–23:00 (Illuminations) / Christmas Market: Nov 9, 2024 – Dec 25, 2024, Weekdays 17:00–20:00, Weekends 12:00–20:00
- Price: Free
- Official site: https://gardenplace.jp/
Tokyo Mega Illumination at Oi Racecourse
Featuring a fountain show, an aurora forest, and ponies dressed in Christmas costumes, this unique illumination event offers experiences you won’t find anywhere else. Though there is an entry fee, it’s well worth it.
- Location: Oi Racecourse, Shinagawa Ward
- Dates & Time: Nov 2, 2024 – Jan 12, 2025
- Price: ¥1,000 (Adult, on the day)
- Official site: https://en.tokyomegaillumi.jp/
Tokyo Midtown Christmas
Each year, Tokyo Midtown brings visitors a new Christmas theme. The 2024 theme is “Ensemble wrap – Layers of Light,” using bubble and snow effects. Ice skating rink is also open during winter. Roppongi Hills is also nearby, making it easy to visit both areas.
- Location: Tokyo Midtown
- Dates & Time: Nov 14, 2024 – Dec 25, 2024, 17:00–23:00 (Illuminations)
- Price: Free
- Official site: https://en.tokyo-midtown.com/
Blue Grotto Shibuya
This simple but beautiful illumination covers an entire street with around 600,000 blue LED lights, creating a magical “blue grotto” effect. It’s a Christmas display for those seeking an elegant, adult atmosphere.
- Location: From Shibuya Park Street to the Keyaki-Namiki trees at Yoyogi Park
- Dates & Time: Dec 6, 2024 – Dec 25, 202, 17:00–22:00 (Illuminations)
- Price: Free
- Official site:https://shibuya-aonodokutsu.jp/
Tokyo Skytree Town Dream Christmas
Not only the Skytree but the entire Skytree town will be illuminated, creating a vivelant atmosphere. There’s also a Christmas market, music, and projection mapping shows. An ice-skating rink will open after the new year.
- Location: Tokyo Skytree Town
- Dates & Time: Nov 7, 2024– Dec 25, 2024, 16:00–23:00 (Illuminations) / Christmas Market: 11:00–22:00
- Price: Free
- Official site: https://www.tokyo-skytree.jp/en/
Yomiuriland Jewellumination
The entire amusement park is lit up with 6.5 million LED lights, and you can enjoy spectacular fountain shows. It’s a family-friendly illumination spot that runs all winter long, not just for Christmas.
- Location: Yomiuriland
- Dates & Time: Oct 24, 2024 – Apr 6, 2025
- Price: ¥1,800 (Adult, admission only)
- Official site: https://www.yomiuriland.com/en/
Omotesando Fendi Illuminations
The main street of fashionable city, Omotesando, is illuminated in champagne gold for nearly a kilometre, creating a sophisticated atmosphere. Perfect for a romantic evening stroll.
- Location: Omotesando, near Harajuku Station
- Dates & Time: Dec 1, 2023 – Dec 28, 2023, 17:00–22:00 (Illuminations) / Christmas Market: 15:00–21:00 (Dates for 2024 TBA)
- Price: Free
- Official site: None
If you’re in Tokyo this winter, don’t miss these magical Christmas illuminations. They’re sure to make your holiday season unforgettable!
