Japan Light Festival 2025 – Beautiful Illuminations for Christmas Japan Light Festival 2025 – Beautiful Illuminations for Christmas & New Year

If you’re planning to visit Japan this winter, make sure not to miss it! Every city will be beautifully lit up with dazzling illuminations that will fill your camera roll. This time, we’ll take you to explore Japan Winter Illumination 2025, featuring the most stunning light festivals during Christmas and New Year. Expect a romantic atmosphere and plenty of must-visit photo spots. Whether you love strolling under sparkling lights or want to capture beautiful couple shots, this article gathers all the event dates, highlights, and little tips to make your trip even more enjoyable.

Japanese light festivals are more than just beautiful illuminations they are a blend of traditional culture, modern innovation, and heartfelt emotions. The Japanese have been connected to light since ancient times, from moon-viewing traditions to Andon lanterns and Chochin lamps. During the Meiji era, electricity was first introduced into shops such as Meijiya in Ginza, where electric bulbs were used for decoration and created a sense of wonder. This is considered the beginning of modern illumination concepts in Japan.

The prototype of illumination festivals as tourism events became clear with the Sapporo White Illumination in 1981, held in Sapporo, Hokkaido, which later inspired many cities to follow. Popularity soared with the invention of blue LED lights, which allowed for more diverse colors while saving energy. Combined with the rise of Christmas Eve as a romantic day for couples, and the Kobe Luminarie in 1995 held in remembrance and to give hope after the Great Hanshin Earthquake Japanese light festivals came to embody beauty, meaning, and hope. Today, they are a highlight of winter that people from around the world fall in love with.

Here we’ve gathered the top 10 most beautiful and popular illumination festivals across Japan for you to bookmark. One important note: the event dates for 2025–2026 are mostly preliminary and may change. So before making your travel plans, be sure to double-check the latest information on each festival’s official website for accuracy. To give you an overview and make planning easier, we’ve also created a summary table highlighting each festival’s key details.

Festival Name	Prefecture	Highlights	Event Period
Nabana no Sato Illumination	Mie	Spectacular light tunnels and glowing flower gardens	Mid Oct – Early Jun
Shirakawago Winter Light-Up	Gifu	World Heritage village under the snow (reservation required)	Jan – Feb (only 4 days)
Sapporo White Illumination	Hokkaido	Japan’s first winter illumination event	Nov – Mar
Ashikaga Flower Fantasy	Tochigi	Glowing flower gardens and illuminated wisteria	Mid Oct – Mid Feb
Tokyo Mega Illumination	Tokyo	Tokyo’s largest illumination held at a racecourse	Early Nov – Mid Jan
Kobe Luminarie	Hyogo	Italian-style lights of hope and remembrance	Late Jan – Early Feb
Sagamiko Illumillion	Kanagawa	Amusement rides and 6 million lights	Early Nov – Early May
Osaka Festival of the Lights	Osaka	City-wide illuminations across Osaka	Year-round (highlights Nov – Dec)
Roppongi Hills Christmas	Tokyo	Chic illuminations with views of Tokyo Tower	Nov – Dec
Shibuya Blue Cave	Tokyo	Blue cave-style light tunnel in central Shibuya	Dec

When it comes to the biggest and longest-running illumination event in Japan, it has to be the Nabana no Sato Winter Illumination in Mie Prefecture. This festival is famous for its breathtaking display of over 5.8 million lights and an extended event period from mid-October all the way until early June the following year, making it one of the most flexible illuminations to plan your trip around.

📍 Location: Nabana no Sato Garden, Kuwana City, Mie Prefecture

🗓️ Event Period: Mid-October 2025 – Early June 2026

🎟️ Admission Fee: Around 2,300 yen (includes a 1,000 yen cash coupon redeemable at restaurants/shops inside the park)

Highlights Not to Miss

• Tunnel of Light: A signature golden tunnel stretching over 200 meters, like walking under a sky full of stars one of the most popular photo spots.
• Main Theme Area: The main show plaza with a new theme each year, using LED technology to create stunning landscapes such as waterfalls, nature, or the aurora.
• River of Light: Japan’s largest water illumination, with shimmering reflections that create a truly magical scene.
• Other Zones: The vast Begonia Garden (over 12,000 varieties), free footbath onsen, and the Fuji Island 360° observation deck.

How to Get There

• Bus from Nagoya Station, around 30–50 minutes
• Or take a train to Nagashima Station and transfer to the festival’s Shuttle Bus

Tips

• Visit on weekdays to avoid large crowds
• During the Christmas season, tickets must be reserved in advance as no on-site sales are available

Want to make the most of your trip? Book accommodation near Kuwana City, Mie Prefecture, for easy access to the illumination 👇🏻

This is one of the most magical and exclusive illumination events in Japan the Shirakawago Winter Light-Up, held only 4 days a year! The World Heritage Gassho-zukuri village blanketed in snow and glowing softly at night looks like a fairytale world. But this special experience also comes with exclusivity, as entry is strictly by advance reservation only.

📍 Location: Ogimachi Village, Shirakawago, Gifu Prefecture

🗓️ Event Dates (2026): Jan 12, Jan 18, Jan 25, and Feb 1

⏰ Light-Up Hours: 17:30 – 19:30

🎟️ Admission: Varies depending on reservation type

Key Highlights

• Unparalleled beauty of an ancient village illuminated under snow and lights
• A once-in-a-lifetime experience sought after by travelers worldwide

How to Attend (Advance Reservation Only)

• Lottery System: For those who wish to stay overnight in the village, registration opens in October of the previous year
• Tour Companies: For example, Nohi Bus offers special light-up tour packages, typically available from September–October
• Online Reservations: Via the official website https://shirakawa-go.gr.jp/en, usually sold out within minutes after opening

Tips

• No walk-ins or regular public buses are allowed; the last bus departs before the light-up begins
• Prepare for extreme cold temperatures may drop to -10°C. Bring proper winter clothing, waterproof non-slip shoes, and full winter gear

Photography lovers should not miss the Shirakawago Winter Light-Up in Gifu. Be sure to book your accommodation in advance!

Take a step back to where Japanese illumination festivals all began with the Sapporo White Illumination in Hokkaido. First held in 1981, this pioneering event has continued to capture the hearts of visitors ever since. The city of Sapporo, adorned with colorful lights against a pure white snowy backdrop, creates a truly romantic and timeless atmosphere.

📍 Location: Sapporo City, Hokkaido (Odori Park, Ekimae-dori, Minami Ichijo-dori)

🗓️ Event Period: Late November 2024 – Mid-March 2025

⏰ Light-Up Hours: 16:30 – 22:00 (extended to midnight on Dec 23–25)

🎟️ Admission: Free

Highlights Not to Miss

• Odori Park: The main exhibition area, divided into Blocks 1–6, each with unique themes and light sculptures such as giant Christmas trees and glowing fountains.
• Munich Christmas Market: Experience authentic European vibes with German sausages, mulled wine, and charming Christmas gifts.
• Ekimae-dori & Minami Ichijo-dori: Streets lined with illuminated trees stretching as far as the eye can see, perfect for a snowy evening stroll.

Getting There

• The event is held in the city center, easily accessible on foot from JR Sapporo Station or Odori Subway Station.

Tips

• If you plan to attend the Sapporo Snow Festival in February, you can still enjoy parts of the illumination, such as along Minami Ichijo-dori a great bonus!

Fantasy-lovers should not miss the Sapporo White Illumination. Book your stay early to secure the perfect winter experience!

If you’re looking for a light festival that perfectly blends the beauty of nature with dazzling technology, like a true masterpiece of art, you must visit Ashikaga Flower Fantasy in Tochigi Prefecture. This event has been recognized and awarded as one of Japan’s best illumination festivals countless times. The vast flower garden is transformed into a glowing flower wonderland with over 5 million lights, creating mesmerizing stories and breathtaking scenes.

📍 Location: Ashikaga Flower Park, Tochigi Prefecture

🗓️ Event Period: Mid-October 2025 – Mid-February 2026

🎟️ Admission: Around 1,000 – 1,400 yen (varies by period)

Highlights Not to Miss

• The Miracle Wisteria: A recreation of a giant wisteria tree made of lights, telling the flower’s life cycle from bloom to fall.
• Seasonal Themes: Three main themes throughout the event: “Light and Flower” (Autumn), “Christmas Fantasy,” and “New Year Lights with Winter Peonies.”
• Flower Castle: A dazzling illuminated castle, perfect for photos.
• Rose Garden of Light: A 120-meter-long illuminated rose wall, creating a romantic atmosphere.

Getting There

• Easy access from Tokyo take the train directly to Ashikaga Flower Park Station, located right next to the garden.

Tips

• It’s not just wisteria other flowers are also recreated with lights, such as lotus flowers floating on water or color-changing roses, making every stroll full of delightful details.

If you want to enjoy illuminations surrounded by flowers, don’t miss the Ashikaga Flower Fantasy. Book your accommodation in advance!

Get ready for a truly mega experience at Tokyo Mega Illumination, one of the largest illumination festivals in Tokyo. What makes this event unique is its venue — the Oi Racecourse. This extraordinary location creates a perfect blend of cutting-edge light technology, the beauty of nature, and the charm of real horses.

📍 Location: Oi Racecourse, Shinagawa, Tokyo

🗓️ Event Period: Early November 2025 – Mid-January 2026

⚠️ Note: Closed on horse racing days. Please check the official website for the schedule before visiting.

🎟️ Admission: Around 1,500 yen

Highlights Not to Miss

• Time Travel Theme: Experience different eras of Japan, from Edo and Meiji to Taisho and Showa, recreated with dazzling illuminations.
• Light and Sound Shows: Spectacular rainbow fountain shows, an aurora display over the grass fields, and an interactive light tunnel over 100 meters long.
• Meet Real Horses: A unique highlight where you can take photos with adorable miniature horses — a favorite activity for both kids and adults.
• Illuminated Flower Fields & Rice Terraces: Enjoy LED-lit flower fields and terraced rice paddies that make you feel like you’ve stepped into the Japanese countryside, right in the heart of Tokyo.

Getting There

• Super convenient — just 2 minutes from Oi Keibajo Mae Station on the Tokyo Monorail.

Tips

• This event has been voted as Japan’s No.1 Illumination Festival for three consecutive years, a true guarantee of its scale and beauty.

Book your hotel in Tokyo today and get ready to be amazed at the spectacular Tokyo Mega Illumination!

Kobe Luminarie is not just an ordinary light festival, but one filled with deep meaning and spirit. It was first held in 1995 to commemorate the victims of the Great Hanshin-Awaji Earthquake and to serve as a symbol of hope and recovery for the city of Kobe. The atmosphere of the event is therefore serene, beautiful, and deeply moving, rather than just festive.

📍 Location: Central Kobe, around Higashi Yuenchi Park and the Former Foreign Settlement district

🗓️ Event Period: Late January – Early February 2026

🎟️ Admission: Most areas are free, but some zones such as Meriken Park may require a fee

Highlights Not to Miss

• Italian-style Illuminations: Light arches and tunnels designed by Italian artists. The first set of lights was a gift from the Italian government to send encouragement, giving the event a unique beauty reminiscent of classic European architecture.
• Path of Light: The festival spreads across various parts of the city, creating a route for visitors to stroll while soaking in the lights and Kobe’s atmosphere.
• Profound Meaning: Visiting this event is like joining in remembrance and passing on hope, making it a far deeper experience than an ordinary light show.

Getting There

• Easily accessible from Motomachi or Sannomiya stations

Tips

• The latest theme is “30 Years of Light: Eternal Hope”, emphasizing the festival’s importance as a symbol of light and hope that continues to shine over Kobe.

Plan your Hyogo trip with ease — book your hotel in advance and enjoy the inspiring Kobe Luminarie light festival!

For those who love both dazzling illuminations and the thrill of amusement rides, don’t miss Sagamiko Illumillion in Kanagawa Prefecture. This event combines a grand light festival featuring over 6 million lights with a large amusement park, making it a perfect destination for families.

📍 Location: Sagamiko Resort Pleasure Forest, Kanagawa Prefecture

🗓️ Event Period: Early November 2025 – Early May 2026

🎟️ Admission: Options include illumination-only tickets or combo passes with rides

Highlights Not to Miss

• 6 Million Lights: One of the largest illuminations in the Kanto region, covering the hills with breathtaking beauty.
• Rides Amid the Lights: Enjoy the Ferris wheel, carousel, and roller coasters while taking in stunning night views.
• Scenic Lift & Cable Car: Ride to the hilltop for panoramic views of the brightly lit park.
• Light and Music Shows: Be amazed by performances such as illuminated fountains and giant curtain lights synchronized with music.
• Adorable Characters: Some years feature collaborations with San-X characters like Rilakkuma, adding extra charm.

Getting There

• Take a train to Sagamiko Station and transfer to a local bus to the resort.

Tips

• Located near Tokyo, it’s perfect for a day trip — enjoy the rides during the day and the spectacular lights at night.

Osaka is a city that never sleeps, and even on winter nights it shines brightly with the Osaka Festival of the Lights, known in Thai as เทศกาลไฟโอซาก้า. What makes this festival special is that it spreads across the entire city, with the main highlights along Midosuji Street and the Nakanoshima area, transforming Osaka into a grand metropolis of lights.

📍 Location: Across Osaka City, with main spots at Midosuji Street and the Nakanoshima area

🗓️ Event Period: Year-round (peak season is November – December)

🎟️ Admission: Mostly free

Highlights Not to Miss

• Midosuji Illumination: A 4 km-long main avenue lined with ginkgo trees illuminated on both sides, making it one of the longest illuminated streets in the world.
• OSAKA Hikari-Renaissance: A light and digital art event in the Nakanoshima district, featuring projection mapping on historic buildings such as the Osaka City Central Public Hall.
• Osaka Castle Illuminage: In some years, the event is held at Osaka Castle, themed around samurai history for a unique and exciting experience.
• Osaka-style Fun: Illuminations inspired by city icons such as takoyaki or the Glico sign, adding humor and local flavor.

Getting There

• Easily accessible by subway, with several convenient stations such as Umeda, Yodoyabashi, Shinsaibashi, or Namba.

Tips

• Since the festival is spread across multiple areas, it’s best to plan your walking route — for example, start from Umeda and gradually stroll down Midosuji Street to Namba to catch all the highlights.

For those who love chic, modern, and luxurious vibes, don’t miss the Roppongi Hills Christmas. It’s one of Tokyo’s most stylish illumination events, located right in the heart of Roppongi. The highlight is the stunning light-up along Keyakizaka Street, with the iconic Tokyo Tower glowing orange-red in the background — making it one of the most romantic and photogenic spots in the city.

📍 Location: Roppongi Hills area, especially Keyakizaka Street, Tokyo

🗓️ Event Period: Mid-November – December 25, 2025

⏰ Illumination Hours: 17:00 – 23:00

🎟️ Admission: Free

Highlights Not to Miss

• Keyakizaka Street: A 400-meter-long street lined with trees illuminated by over 800,000 LEDs in the SNOW & BLUE theme, creating a magical yet cozy atmosphere.
• Tokyo Tower View: A must-see photo spot from the pedestrian bridge, where the illuminations perfectly frame the glowing Tokyo Tower.
• Mohri Garden: A tranquil garden in the heart of Roppongi Hills, decorated with themed lights for a romantic touch.
• Christmas Market: A charming German-style Christmas market where you can stroll, enjoy seasonal treats, and shop for souvenirs.

Getting There

• Very convenient — take the subway to Roppongi Station.

Tips

• After enjoying the lights, explore more of Roppongi, with its shopping complexes, fine dining, and art museums.

Step into a mysterious and enchanting world at the Shibuya Blue Cave, also known as the “Blue Cave of Shibuya.” This illumination event is truly unique, featuring only deep blue LED lights that transform the entire street into a mesmerizing tunnel of light. It feels like walking into another realm, offering a magical and unforgettable experience.

📍 Location: From Yoyogi Park to Shibuya, Tokyo

🗓️ Event Period: Early December – December 25

🎟️ Admission: Free

Highlights Not to Miss

• Blue Light Tunnel: An 800-meter-long path lined with countless deep blue LEDs. The reflections on the road create the sensation of walking through an underwater cave.
• Unique Atmosphere: The use of a single color creates a serene, mysterious vibe, unlike other festivals that showcase multicolored lights.
• Central Location: Located in the heart of Shibuya, where you can continue shopping or enjoy dining right after the illumination.

Getting There

• Just a short walk from Shibuya Station or Yoyogi Koen Station.

Tips

• The street can get very crowded, especially on weekends. Visit on weekdays for a more relaxed experience, and be mindful of your belongings if visiting on holidays.

Don’t forget to book your stay near Shibuya for easy access to the magical Blue Cave Illumination — step right outside and immerse yourself in the glowing blue tunnel.

Get your sunglasses ready, because you’re about to step into the dazzling world of Yomiuriland Jewellumination, one of Tokyo’s brightest and most glamorous illumination festivals. What makes this event unique is its concept of Jewellumination — illuminations inspired by the colors of precious gemstones, designed by a world-renowned lighting artist. The entire amusement park shines like a giant jewelry box.

📍 Location: Yomiuriland Amusement Park, Tokyo

🗓️ Event Period: Late October 2025 – Early April 2026 (a months-long celebration)

🎟️ Admission: Around 5,800 yen (Day Pass, includes all rides)

Highlights Not to Miss

• Gemstone Lights: Over 4 million lights in the hues of 24 gemstones such as ruby, sapphire, and emerald, creating a vivid and breathtaking spectacle.
• Rides with Lights: Enjoy attractions like the Ferris wheel and roller coasters while soaking in illuminated views from above.
• Fountain Show: A spectacular water, light, and music performance you simply can’t miss.
• Love Tunnel: A 180-meter-long tunnel of lights displaying the word “love” in multiple languages — a romantic photo spot for couples.

Getting There

• Take the train to Keio-yomiuri-land Station, then continue by gondola or shuttle bus to the amusement park.

Tips

• Consider buying a Night Pass after 4:00 PM. It’s cheaper than a full-day ticket and perfect if your main goal is to enjoy the illuminations.

Planning a Tokyo winter trip? Reserve your hotel close to Yomiuriland and enjoy over 4 million sparkling jewel-like lights with ease.

• Ending the list with one of the most unique and enchanting festivals — Otaru Snow Light Path, also known as the “Snow Festival of Otaru.” Instead of millions of LED lights, this event uses simple candlelight, handmade by locals and volunteers. Held every February, it creates a warm, serene, and romantic atmosphere in the historic port town blanketed in snow.

📍 Location: Otaru City, Hokkaido (Otaru Canal and the old Temiyasen railway line)

🗓️ Event Period: Around February 8 – 15, 2025 (usually coincides with the Sapporo Snow Festival)

⏰ Illumination Hours: 17:00 – 21:00

🎟️ Admission: Free

Highlights Not to Miss

• Otaru Canal (Unga Kaijo): Floating candles in glass buoys light up the canal, complemented by snow lanterns along the walkway. The old warehouses turned into shops and restaurants add a charming, classic touch.
• Old Temiyasen Railway (Temiyasen Kaijo): The disused railway is transformed into a snow art zone with snow sculptures, candle lanterns, snow tunnels, and cozy Kamakura igloos to step inside.
• Community Spirit: Locals light candles in front of their houses and shops, filling the entire town with a warm glow.
• Take the JR train from Sapporo to Otaru (about 40 minutes), then walk 10–15 minutes to the festival area.
• The atmosphere emphasizes tranquility and community spirit rather than commercial scale, perfect for those seeking something peaceful and different.
• Strolling slowly among the candlelight and falling snow is an unforgettable winter memory.

Don’t forget to book your stay near the Otaru Snow Light Path venue, it’s much more convenient!

• Dressing appropriately is key: Winter in Japan, especially at night, can be extremely cold. Layering is recommended (heattech innerwear + knitwear/fleece + coat or down jacket), along with a hat, scarf, gloves, and waterproof/non-slip boots — especially in snowy regions like Hokkaido or Shirakawago.
• Check information before visiting: Event schedules may change due to weather or other factors. Always confirm the latest details on each festival’s official website to avoid disappointment.
• Plan travel and accommodation in advance: Popular illumination events attract many visitors. Nearby hotels fill up quickly and prices rise, so booking early is essential, especially for events requiring reservations like Shirakawago Light-Up.
• Use public transportation: Trains and buses are the most convenient way to travel, as parking is often limited and difficult to find during festivals.
• Arrive early and choose weekdays: Visiting on weekdays helps avoid heavy crowds. Arriving slightly before the lights turn on also allows time to explore and find the best photo spots before it gets crowded.
• Bring a camera and spare batteries: Night photography can be challenging. Use a camera or smartphone with Night Mode and carry a power bank, as batteries drain faster in cold weather.

Japanese illumination festivals are more than just beautiful light displays they are experiences full of charm, romance, and warmth that can make the cold of winter disappear. Whether it’s the grandeur of Nabana no Sato, the exclusivity of Shirakawago, the classic atmosphere of Sapporo White Illumination, the deep meaning of Kobe Luminarie, or the serene simplicity of Otaru Snow Light Path, Japan offers illuminations to suit every style of traveler.

To make your illumination trip smooth and perfect, Gother is here to help plan your journey from booking special flight deals to Japan, reserving hotels in Japan close to the illumination spots, to joining unique activities in Japan that complete your trip. We hope this guide inspires you to create glowing winter memories in Japan.

After enjoying these magical illumination festivals, remember this is just the beginning. Japan still has countless exciting activities waiting for you. Don’t miss them!