Winter illuminations are synonymous with Japanese winter nights. They bring a magical glow to cities across the country and are perfect for festive dates or holiday outings. In recent years, many displays have evolved to include live performances featuring images and music through “projection mapping”, where computer graphics are projected in 3D onto buildings and structures.
In this guide, we introduce the top Japan winter illuminations for 2025, complete with details on event schedules, lighting hours, and venue specifics. Embrace the enchantment that only winter in Japan can bring!
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Sapporo White Illumination [Hokkaido]
If there is one winter event that justifies braving the sub-zero temperatures, it is this one. As Japan’s first-ever winter illumination (started in 1981), Sapporo knows exactly how to curate a spectacle. The magic here isn’t just in the 800,000+ bulbs, but in the contrast; the lights reflect off the pristine white snow on the ground, creating a glowing “corridor of light” that you simply don’t get in Tokyo or Osaka.
For the best experience, grab a hot wine from the concurrent Munich Christmas Market in Odori Park (held until Dec 25th) and wander through the distinct zones. Look out for the “Wish Birds” at the TV Tower and the new “Snow Fantasia” corridor at Odori 3-chome. Insider tip: For the perfect photo, head up the Sapporo TV Tower for a bird’s-eye view of the entire park stretching out like a ribbon of light.
- JR Sapporo Station South Exit Plaza: Nov 21, 2025 – Mar 14, 2026
- Official Website: sapporo.travel/en/event/event-list/sapporo_white_illumination/
- Odori Park: Nov 21, 2025 – Dec 25, 2025
- Sapporo Station Ekimaedori: Nov 21, 2025 – Feb 11, 2026
- Minami 1-jo dori: Nov 21, 2025 – Mar 14, 2026
- Sapporo Kita 3-jo Plaza (Akapla): Nov 21, 2025 – Mar 14, 2026
Hakodate Christmas Fantasy [Hokkaido]
Set against the romantic backdrop of the Red Brick Warehouses, this event feels less like a city illumination and more like a scene from a European holiday film. The centrepiece is a massive fir tree that actually floats in the bay, illuminated in brilliant colours that shimmer across the water.
The absolute highlight here is the daily schedule: every evening at 18:00, fireworks are launched to synchronise with the tree lighting, a breathtaking moment that draws crowds every single night. Keep an eye out for the “Premium Red Tree” display, where the tree turns a deep, glowing crimson for just 15 minutes, three times a night (18:30, 19:30, and 20:30). Also, do not miss the “Soup Bar” booths along the sidewalk; local restaurants serve hot, gourmet soups that are absolute lifesavers in the freezing Hakodate wind.
- Lighting Hours: 16:30 – 22:00 (Starts at 18:00 on the first day)
- Official Website: hakodate.travel/en/events/hakodate-christmas-fantasy/
- Dates: Nov 29, 2025 – Dec 25, 2025
SENDAI Pageant of Starlight [Miyagi Prefecture]
SENDAI Pageant of Light 2025 This is arguably the most elegant illumination in the Tohoku region. Instead of gaudy colours, Sendai focuses on warmth and uniformity. Hundreds of thousands of LED lights are wrapped around the zelkova trees lining Jozenji-dori Avenue, transforming the street into a towering “tunnel of light”.
The “must-see” moment here is the Starlight Wink. At specific times, all the lights are momentarily switched off, plunging the avenue into darkness, before suddenly bursting back to life in unison, a moment that always elicits gasps from the crowd. It is sophisticated, photogenic, and incredibly romantic. There is also an ice rink set up in Kotodai Park nearby if you want to make a full evening of it.
- Exception: Dec 24 & 25: 18:00 – 22:00
- Official Website: sendaihikape.jp
- Dates: Dec 5 (Fri) – Dec 28 (Sun), 2025
- Lighting Hours:
- Mon–Thu: 19:00 – 22:00
- Fri/Sat: 18:00 – 22:00
- Sun: 18:00 – 21:00
Tobu Zoo Winter Illumination [Saitama Prefecture]
If you are travelling with energetic children who might get bored just “looking at lights,” this is your best option near Tokyo. Now in its 14th year, Tobu Zoo combines a full day of animal encounters with a high-tech night display. The illumination uses nearly three million lights, but the real draw is the “Smoke and Light” show and the massive LED vision displays that synchronise with music. It’s more of a concert atmosphere than a quiet walk.
The 50-metre light tunnel is a classic photo spot, but the “Lantern Illumination” featuring glowing animal figures adds a nice thematic touch. Since it is a bit of a trek from central Tokyo, the “Illumination Pass” (which includes entry after 15:00) is a great value way to see the White Tigers by dusk and the lights by night.
- January 5 – February 23: Saturdays, Sundays, and Public Holidays only.
- Official Website: tobuzoo.com/winter_illuminations/
- Event Period: Nov 1, 2025 (Sat) – Feb 23, 2026 (Mon/Holiday)
- Schedule Details:
- November: Saturdays, Sundays, Public Holidays, and Saitama Citizens’ Day (Nov 14) only.
- December 1 – 21: Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays only.
- December 22 – January 4: Open daily (Closed Jan 1).
Christmas in Karuizawa Hoshino Area [Nagano Prefecture]
For a quieter, more “grown-up” Christmas vibe, skip the city crowds and head to Karuizawa. The Hoshino area curates a very organic, cosy atmosphere where the lights are designed to complement the forest rather than overpower it. The star attraction is the ten-metre-high real fir tree near Hoshino Hot Springs, which feels incredibly authentic compared to the plastic trees often found in shopping malls.
A lovely feature for 2025 is the “Mistletoe Lantern” rental; you can borrow a lantern shaped like a mistletoe berry to guide your walk along the promenade connecting Harunire Terrace to the hot springs. If you have time, visit the nearby Kera-Ike Ice Rink, which also lights up with “Stardust” projections on the ice.
- Dates: Nov 22, 2025 – Dec 25, 2025
- Official Website: hoshino-area.jp/en/event/christmas/
Shima Spain Mura Sparkling Christmas [Mie Prefecture]
This is one of the most underrated spots for families. The park replicates a Spanish cityscape, which looks charming by day but becomes magical at dusk when 200,000 lights illuminate the white walls and tiled roofs. The 2025 season features a seven-metre-tall Christmas tree on España Street and a special projection mapping show called “Feliz Navidad 2025” that runs twice daily.
Unlike the sombre mood of some illuminations, this one is festive and loud in the best way. There are character greetings in Christmas costumes, and the park restaurants serve seasonal specials like Christmas Paella. It is a fantastic option if you want a theme park experience without the crushing crowds of Disney or USJ.
- Dates: Nov 22, 2025 – Dec 25, 2025
- Official Website: en.kanko-shima.com/event/16393/
Midosuji Illumination [Osaka Prefecture]
Recognised as a world record holder for the longest illuminated street, Midosuji is Osaka’s power move. Stretching over 4 kilometres, this isn’t just a few lights; it is a massive urban project that lights up the ginkgo trees from Umeda all the way to Namba.
The 2025 edition is particularly special as it serves as a prelude to the Osaka Expo. The street is divided into colour zones—like “Purple & Gold” in Umeda and a “5-Colour Mix” in Shinsaibashi, representing the city’s growth and diversity. Be sure to check out the interactive “Light Art Street” sections and the projection mapping on the Kita-Mido temple, which blends traditional architecture with modern tech. It is free, open late, and perfectly located for a post-dinner stroll.
- Dates: Specially lit from April 2025 to coincide with Expo 2025.
- Official Website: en.osaka-info.jp/event/osaka-hikarinokyouen-2025/
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EXPOCITY Illumination [Osaka Prefecture]
If you are shopping in Osaka, this is an easy addition to your itinerary. Located at the Expo ’70 Commemorative Park, this complex goes big for Christmas with over 100,000 LEDs. The highlight is the 8-metre Christmas tree in the Sky Plaza, but the real “insider” view comes from riding the OSAKA WHEEL, Japan’s tallest Ferris wheel.
From the top, you get a view of the Tower of the Sun and the city lights that you simply cannot get from the ground. It is less “immersive” than Midosuji but perfect for a relaxed date night or a family outing combined with dinner at the massive Lalaport shopping mall next door.
- Dates: Dec 1, 2025 – Dec 25, 2025
- Website: sp.jorudan.co.jp/illumi/spot_118552.html
Hiroshima Dreamination [Hiroshima Prefecture]
While some illuminations aim for “chic,” Hiroshima goes for “fairytale maximalism.” The “Dreamination” festival takes over Peace Boulevard with 1.4 million lights, creating immersive walk-through sculptures like massive glowing castles, ships, and pumpkins.
It is incredibly popular with locals because it is interactive; you can actually walk inside many of the light structures, which makes for fantastic photos. The theme changes slightly every year, but it consistently delivers a playful, “Land of Dreams” vibe that stands in nice contrast to the solemn history of the area. It is admittedly a bit gaudy, but in a fun, undeniable way that young families absolutely adore.
- Lighting Hours: 17:30 – 22:30 (Opening night from 18:00)
- Website: gethiroshima.com/event/hiroshima-dreamination-illuminations/
- Dates: Nov 15, 2025 – Jan 3, 2026
Southeast Botanical Garden Okinawa Tropical Illumination [Okinawa]
Forget snow. How about illuminated palm trees? This award-winning illumination (often ranked #1 in Japan for its category) is a surreal experience where tropical plants, hibiscuses, and lotus flowers are recreated in LED form. The “Light of Lotus” display, reflecting off the water, is particularly stunning.
For 2025, look out for the “Light of Castle,” a 10-metre tall structure perfect for social media snaps, and the marine-themed “Light of Ocean,” which features a glowing 20-metre whale shark. It is quirky, colourful, and totally unique to Okinawa. If you are tired of the cold mainland winter, walking through a warm, glowing jungle is a refreshing change of pace.
- Lighting Hours: 17:00 – 22:00 (Last entry 21:30)
- Official Website: southeast-botanical.jp/en/illumination/
- Dates: Oct 24, 2025 – May 24, 2026
Japan Winter Illuminations FAQs
When is the best time to see winter illuminations in Japan?
Most events begin in November and run until Christmas, with some extending to Valentine’s Day. While December is peak season, visiting in January or February often offers fewer crowds and a more relaxed atmosphere.
Are winter illuminations in Japan free to enter?
Many public displays, such as the Sapporo White Illumination and the Sendai Pageant of Starlight, are free. However, illuminations held within theme parks or botanical gardens (like Tobu Zoo or Southeast Botanical Garden) typically require an admission ticket.
What should I wear to winter illuminations?
Japanese winter nights can be freezing, especially in northern regions like Hokkaido. It is essential to wear thermal layers, a heavy coat, a scarf, and gloves. Comfortable, warm walking boots are also recommended as you will be on your feet for some time.
Do illuminations take place in rain or snow?
Yes, displays usually continue in light rain or snow—in fact, snow can make the lights appear even more magical. However, events may be temporarily suspended or cancelled during severe storms or typhoons.
How late do winter illuminations stay open?
Most illuminations switch on around sunset (16:30–17:00) and stay lit until between 21:00 and 22:00. Some major city displays may stay on until midnight during the peak Christmas week, but it is best to check the specific schedule for each venue.
