If you are visiting Japan in December, you might be surprised by just how seriously Tokyo takes Christmas. But it’s important to know that things work a bit differently here. In Japan, Christmas isn’t typically a quiet religious holiday spent at home. Instead, it is a massive event for couples going on dates and families looking for a fun evening out. The city lights up, the shops go all out, and the atmosphere is electric.
You will also notice a very specific theme running through almost every market: Germany. For some reason, Tokyo loves a German-style Christmas. In Tokyo Christmas markets, you won’t just find local snacks; you will see row after row of wooden huts selling hot schnitzel, sausages, stollen, and collectable mugs of Glühwein (mulled wine). Many of the decorations are even imported directly from Europe to make it feel authentic.
One final, crucial tip before you start planning: timing is everything. Unlike in Europe, where festive markets often stay open until the New Year, Christmas in Japan shuts down promptly. Most of the markets on this list will pack up and disappear on 25 December. So, if you want to soak up the festive cheer, don’t wait. Get out there now!
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1. Tokyo Christmas Market 2025 (Meiji Jingu Gaien)
If you only have time for one market, this is the big one. It is widely considered the heavyweight champion of Tokyo’s holiday scene, mostly because of its sheer scale. The centrepiece is a massive 14-metre “Christmas Pyramid” imported from Dresden, which spins slowly and really anchors the whole German village vibe. Because it is the most popular spot, it is undeniably busy. You will be shoulder-to-shoulder with thousands of others, but the energy is fantastic: loud, cheerful, and full of people enjoying hot schnitzel and sausages.
There is one crucial rule you need to know about this market: the “Mug Rule.” If you buy your ticket in advance online, the price includes a novelty mug, which you use for your hot wine or chocolate. This year’s colour for the Jingu Gaien venue is Strawberry Red. However, if you wait to buy a ticket at the door, you pay the same price but you do not get the mug. Also, keep an eye out for the information booth inside; rumour has it that if you add the market’s official LINE account, you might be able to snag a secret “Matte Black” version, though stock for that is always limited.
- Dates: 21 November – 25 December 2025
- Location: Meiji Jingu Gaien (Note: Moved from Hibiya Park a few years ago)
- Entrance Fee: ¥1,000 (Weekdays) / ¥1,500 (Weekends) / ¥2,000 (20–25 Dec)
- Website: tokyochristmas.net
2. Roppongi Hills Christmas Market
If you want a market that feels a bit more upscale and “grown-up,” this is the one. Roppongi Hills is arguably the “classic” Tokyo Christmas market, modelled faithfully after the one in Stuttgart, Germany. Because it is located in the O-Yane Plaza, it has a semi-outdoor setup with a massive glass roof. This makes it the absolute best option if the weather is rainy or windy, as you can stay dry while you browse. Just keep in mind that this venue is quite compact, meaning there are very few places to sit. You should treat this as a “standing bar” style event rather than a place to settle in for a long dinner.
The star attraction here is the Käthe Wohlfahrt shop, a famous German brand that sets up a large pop-up store inside the market every year. It is packed with high-quality, traditional ornaments, and people often queue just to get inside that specific hut. Once you have finished your shopping, don’t just walk down the street to see the lights. Head to the pedestrian overpass on Keyakizaka Street. That is the specific spot where you can get that iconic photo of the blue illuminations with Tokyo Tower glowing red in the background.
- Dates: 22 November – 25 December 2025
- Location: O-Yane Plaza, Roppongi Hills
- Entrance Fee: Free
- Website: christmas.hills-site.com
3. Azabudai Hills Christmas Market
Since opening recently, Azabudai Hills has quickly established itself as Tokyo’s most stylish new destination, and its Christmas market reflects that perfectly. Located in the Central Green, this market feels far more modern and architectural than the traditional parks. Instead of a rustic village, you get a chic, curated experience centred around a stunning fir tree illuminated in “Champagne Gold.” It is arguably the most photogenic market on this list, with the towering Mori JP Tower providing a dramatic backdrop.
The food selection here is also a step up from the standard fare. While you can still find sausages, you should definitely look out for the gourmet options, such as the “Chocolate Strawberry”, where they pour warm bean-to-bar chocolate over fresh fruit, or the French pot-au-feu. It is also worth noting that the famous German ornament shop Käthe Wohlfahrt has a stall here, too. Since Azabudai Hills is only a short 10-minute walk from Roppongi Hills, I highly recommend visiting both in one evening to compare the traditional vibes of Roppongi with the modern luxury of Azabudai.
- Dates: 22 November – 25 December 2025
- Location: Central Green, Azabudai Hills
- Entrance Fee: Free
- Website: azabudai-hills.com
4. Tokyo Skytree Town “Dream Christmas”
If you are travelling with kids or just want a market that feels more open and relaxed, this is my top recommendation. Located at the base of the Skytree in the 4th-floor “Sky Arena,” this market has a fantastic atmosphere without the claustrophobia of the busier parks. The 2025 theme is “A Christmas Market in a Picture Book,” so expect things to look a bit like a fairy tale—think cute photo spots with giant nutcrackers and a massive polar bear statue that is surprisingly popular for selfies.
What sets this market apart is the setting. You are drinking hot wine directly underneath the world’s tallest tower, which lights up in special red and green Christmas colours just for the season. It is also incredibly convenient; because it is attached to the Solamachi mall, you can easily combine the market with a visit to the aquarium or some last-minute shopping. It’s the perfect “low stress” option.
If you’re feeling active, check out the small ice skating rink located right next to the market stalls; skating with the Skytree looming directly above you is a pretty cool experience you won’t get anywhere else.
- Dates: 06 November – 25 December 2025
- Location: Sky Arena (4F), Tokyo Skytree Town
- Entrance Fee: Free
- Website: tokyo-skytree.jp
5. Tokyo Christmas Market in Shiba Park
If the massive crowds at Meiji Jingu Gaien sound a bit too intense for you, Shiba Park is a fantastic alternative. While it is smaller than the major venues, it makes up for it with unbeatable scenery. The market is set up directly at the foot of Tokyo Tower, which creates a stunning contrast between the rustic wooden stalls and the glowing red steel of the tower. It is officially supported by the German Embassy, so the food and drink are authentic. Expect excellent sausages and plenty of imported beer.
The best way to experience this market is to time your visit carefully. Aim to arrive around 16:30, just as the sun is setting. This lets you watch Tokyo Tower switch on its lights while you are waiting for your first cup of Glühwein. Also, a practical note on footwear: the market is held on a gravel surface in the park. It can get quite dusty and uneven, so leave your high heels at home and wear comfortable, flat shoes that you don’t mind getting a little dirty.
- Dates: 05 December – 25 December 2025
- Location: Shiba Park No. 4 (near Onarimon Station)
- Entrance Fee: ¥1,000 (Weekdays) / ¥1,500 (Weekends) / ¥2,000 (20–25 Dec)
- Website: tokyochristmas.net
6. Yokohama Red Brick Warehouse Christmas Market
While not technically in Tokyo, just a short train ride over is another beautiful Christmas Market at the Yokohama Red Brick Warehouse. Because the venue itself is a historic red brick building from the early 20th century, it looks and feels like a genuine European town square. When you add the sea breeze from the port and a massive 12-metre real fir tree, it is easily the most romantic spot on this list.
For 2025, they have split the event into two distinct zones. There is a new “Christmas Gate” area and a “Christmas Village” in the park which are free to enter. However, the main market area, where you find the best German food stalls and the big tree, requires a ticket. My advice is to pay the ¥500 entry fee; it is absolutely worth it for the full experience. Just be sure to book a “Priority Ticket” online if you plan to visit on a weekend, otherwise, you might find yourself waiting in the cold for over an hour just to get in.
Getting there from Tokyo is easier than you might think. Take the JR Tokaido or Yokosuka line from Tokyo Station to Yokohama Station (about 25 minutes), then switch to the Minatomirai Line to Bashamichi Station, which is only a 6-minute walk from the venue. Alternatively, walk from Sakuragicho Station via the “Kishamichi Promenade”—a pedestrian bridge over the water that offers incredible views of the skyline.
- Dates: 21 November – 25 December 2025
- Location: Yokohama Red Brick Warehouse (Akarenga)
- Entrance Fee: ¥500 (Regular admission)
- Website: yokohama-akarenga.jp/christmas
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Tokyo Christmas Market FAQs
Do Tokyo Christmas markets stay open after Christmas Day?
No. This is the most common search query for a reason! Unlike in Europe, Japanese markets close promptly on 25 December. By the 26th, the decorations are gone.
What happens if it rains?
Most markets stay open, but the outdoor ones (Meiji Jingu, Shiba Park, Yokohama) can be miserable in the rain as there is very little shelter. Roppongi Hills is your best “wet weather” backup because it has a large glass roof.
Are these markets stroller-friendly?
Technically, yes, but I would avoid Meiji Jingu Gaien and Yokohama on weekends. The crowds are so dense you won’t be able to move a pram. Tokyo Skytree Town is the safest bet for parents with toddlers because it’s spacious and near a mall..
Do I really need cash, or is card okay?
Bring cash. While the ticket counters often take cards, the small food huts inside frequently struggle with connection issues or are cash-only. ¥1,000 notes and ¥100 coins are essential.
