Winter Illumination in Tokyo 2024-2025

Tokyo may not be the first destination that comes to mind for Christmas, but it transforms into a romantic and magical place during the holidays. Cozy Christmas markets and stunning holiday illuminations blend beautifully with the city's already vibrant neon signs and ads. The best part is that the dazzling light displays stay on throughout the entire winter season, from mid-November through mid-February, adding a festive charm to the city's bustling atmosphere.

Yebisu Garden Place Winter Illumination (November 9, 2024-January 13, 2025)

Yebisu Garden Place transforms into a fairy-tale wonderland during its winter illumination, featuring over 100,000 LEDs that light up the area. The main highlight is a magnificent 33-foot (10-meter) Christmas tree, accompanied by an impressive 16-foot (5-meter) Baccarat chandelier adorned with over 300 ornaments. Key areas such as the Entrance Pavilion, Slope Promenade, and Chateau Square are illuminated with approximately 100,000 champagne-gold LED lights, creating a warm and festive atmosphere. Visitors can also enjoy a charming Christmas Market and an ice skating rink, adding to the seasonal enchantment.

Roppongi Hills Christmas Illumination (November 7– December 25, 2024)

Roppongi Hills is home to one of Tokyo's most spectacular Christmas illuminations, featuring over 700,000 LEDs that light up Keyakizaka Street and several other locations in the area. With Tokyo Tower providing a stunning backdrop, this spot becomes one of the most photographed during the holiday season. The festivities include around 800,000 LED lights illuminating Mohri Garden, along with the return of the popular Christmas Market. Visitors can also admire various Christmas trees, including a beautifully designed flower-inspired tree at Roku-Roku Plaza. The illumination runs from 5 pm to 11 pm and is free to the public.

Marunouchi Illumination (November 14, 2024–February 16, 2025)

Marunouchi Illumination in front of the Tokyo Station Marunouchi Exit is one of the oldest in Tokyo. The almost-a-mile (1.2 km) illuminated street is lit up by one million LED lights hanging on the trees and arching over the promenade. In addition to lighting up the naked branches, there are illuminated sculptures on the sidewalks, an ice-skating rink, a miniature merry-go-round (seats only), local mascot Maru-kun, a piano, and stalls selling sausages, mulled wine, and treats.

Shinjuku Minami Lumi and Shinjuku Terrace City Illumination (November 15, 2024–February 14, 2025)

Shinjuku, a major shopping hub in Tokyo, is renowned for its dazzling lights. The Shinjuku Minami Lumi and Shinjuku Terrace City Illumination are among the most famous Christmas light displays, visible from the south and west gates of Shinjuku Station. Southern Shinjuku is adorned with around 170,000 LED bulbs, along with beautifully decorated Christmas trees, creating a festive and vibrant atmosphere.