In recent years, Halloween has gained immense popularity in Japan. Events take place all over the country, but none were as famous as Shibuya’s Halloween before the pandemic, which became an unofficial but widely recognized celebration, drawing crowds of nearly a million. People would dress up in costumes, take photos, head out for drinks, visit clubs, and join unofficial street parties, filling the streets with Halloween revelers.

However, this overwhelming turnout has led to issues like littering, noise, vandalism, and conflicts among participants. In response, Shibuya enacted a law in 2019 banning outdoor drinking in streets and parks during Halloween and New Year's Eve, though the situation hasn’t seen much improvement since.

In 2022, a tragic accident occurred during Halloween festivities in the Itaewon district of Seoul, South Korea, claiming the lives of over 150 people.

Following this incident, Shibuya Ward took the unprecedented step of urging people not to visit Shibuya for Halloween in 2023. This made headlines across Japan, and unlike previous years, the Halloween atmosphere was relatively subdued.

So, where did all the Halloween revelers go? Many shifted the party to nearby Kabukicho in Shinjuku. As a result, in 2024, Shinjuku has also tightened its regulations on street drinking during Halloween.

In light of these changes, Halloween in Japan in 2024 will see stricter rules in places like Shibuya and Shinjuku, focusing on maintaining safety, order, and good manners. While the once iconic “Shibuya Halloween” is no longer the same, Halloween in Japan is far from over.

Even though the wild scenes of past Shibuya Halloweens are gone, there are still plenty of people gathering to celebrate. The key is to understand and respect the rules, ensuring a fun and safe Halloween experience.

In response to the growing crowds and issues in recent years, Tokyo’s Shibuya and Shinjuku have implemented specific rules for the Halloween period. Here’s a breakdown of the regulations you should be aware of.

In Shibuya, where the annual "Shibuya Halloween" has grown in popularity, a law was introduced in 2019 to ban outdoor drinking at night during Halloween and New Year’s Eve due to the chaos. However, with ongoing issues, particularly involving young people and foreign tourists, the ban has now been extended to cover the entire year starting in October 2024.

Specifically, outdoor drinking will be prohibited from 6 PM to 5 AM. The restricted area, which includes Shibuya Center-Gai near Shibuya Station’s northwest side, will now also extend to Miyamasuzaka (leading to Aoyama-dori) and Maruyamacho, an area known for its nightclubs.

While there are no penalties for violations, the city plans to increase patrols and issue warnings to those not following the rules.

With Shibuya’s street drinking ban in place, crowds have shifted to the Kabukicho area in Shinjuku, prompting new regulations to be implemented here as well.

From 5 PM on October 31 to 5 AM on November 1, a 12-hour period, the new rules will apply to parts of Shinjuku 3-chome and Kabukicho 1-chome. Like in Shibuya, there are no penalties for violations, but patrols will be increased and warnings will be issued to those who break the rules.

As of September 2024, no official Halloween regulations have been announced for areas in Tokyo outside of Shibuya and Shinjuku. However, just because Shinjuku implemented new rules after crowds moved there from Shibuya doesn’t mean other locations are free for rowdy behavior. This applies not only in Tokyo but also in other major cities like Osaka, Kobe, and Sapporo.

Due to increasing issues in recent years, official street Halloween events are becoming less common, though many people still gather unofficially to celebrate. For example, in Osaka, large crowds dressed in costumes flock to Dotonbori, creating a lively scene. Similarly, in Sapporo, some years have seen groups parading in costumes through the streets.

Wherever you are, it’s essential to be mindful of public drinking and disruptive behavior, especially in busy nightlife areas. This includes avoiding excessive noise, littering, and other acts that may disturb others.

By respecting public spaces, transportation, and local manners, everyone can enjoy a safe and fun Halloween in Japan, ensuring that the celebrations can continue in the future.

As mentioned earlier, it's important to be mindful of your manners in busy areas and on public transport. However, Japan also offers plenty of organized events where you can fully embrace the Halloween spirit. Here are a few worth checking out—so don’t hesitate to join in the fun!

The "Shibuya Halloween Night Fest" is one of the must-attend events in Shibuya, often considered the heart of Halloween in Japan. To join, purchase a ticket for your preferred day and check in at MILAS SHIBUYA. After receiving your wristband, you’ll gain access to participating clubs, DJ bars, lounges, and other venues not only in Shibuya but also in popular areas like Shinjuku and Roppongi.

Event Details
・Venue: MILAS SHIBUYA (Check-in location)
・Dates: October 25 – October 31, 2024
・Time: Varies by venue
・Admission: Varies by venue
* Choose your preferred date when purchasing a ticket.
* Tickets are limited and may sell out for each date.

Over 20,000 cosplayers join this event every year, making it one of Japan’s largest Halloween celebrations. For 2024, the main stage will move from Ikesan Park to Naka-Ikebukuro Park, featuring fun activities like the “Nico Nico Cosplay Show” and “Family Halloween,” making it easy for first-timers to enjoy the event.

Additionally, on October 25 at 4:30 PM, Ikebukuro Sunshine City will host “Ikehalo Night” (18+ only), offering a nighttime photoshoot with stunning views and cosplay activities tailored for the evening.

Event Details
・Venue: Ikebukuro area
・Dates: October 25 – 27, 2024
・Time: October 25: 4:30 PM – 10:30 PM, October 26 & 27: 10 AM – 6 PM
・Tickets: Available starting September 13, 2024

Tokyo Disney Resort® will be hosting its special event, “Disney Halloween.” Not only will there be Halloween-themed programs at Disney hotels, the Disney Resort Line, and Ikspiari®, but the entire Maihama area will be transformed with a festive Halloween atmosphere.

At Tokyo Disneyland®, the park will be decked out with decorations for a spooky yet exciting Halloween party themed around Disney’s iconic villains. During the day, you can catch the parade "The Villains Halloween: Into the Frenzy," while at night, fireworks light up the skies in both parks during the "Night High Halloween" show, set to Halloween music.

Over at Tokyo DisneySea®, the Mediterranean Harbor will welcome guests with Disney characters dressed in pumpkin and candy-inspired costumes for the "Disney Halloween Greeting," where they’ll celebrate Halloween with visitors.

Throughout the event, Disney characters in full costume will greet and entertain guests daily in both parks.

Event Details
・Venue: Tokyo Disney Resort
・Dates: October 1 – November 7, 2024
・Time: 9 AM – 9 PM (November 1, DisneySea only: 9 AM – 6:30 PM, times may vary; check the official website for details)
・Admission: Dynamic pricing applies, check the official website for more information

Tokyo Disneyland: "The Villains Halloween: Into the Frenzy"
Duration: Approx. 45 minutes (1 performance per day)

Tokyo DisneySea: "Disney Halloween Greeting"
Duration: Approx. 15 minutes (2 performances per day)

Sanrio Puroland, an indoor theme park located in Tama City, Tokyo, will host its "PUROHALLOWEEN" event, themed "Wizards × Immersive." On the first floor in Puroland Village, visitors can enjoy the limited-time parade "Magical Festa Let’s Majikevis!," featuring beloved characters like Hello Kitty, Cinnamoroll, and Pompompurin dressed as wizards. Guests can join in the fun by waving their "Magical Wands" (8 designs, 1,430 yen each), making it an interactive experience.

On the third floor, there will be a wizard-themed photo spot, and special menu items at the café, such as the "Magical Broomstick Chicken Cutlet Curry" (1,540 yen) and the "Black Moon Mont Blanc Crepe" (1,000 yen), will be available.

Event Details
・Venue: Sanrio Puroland
・Dates: September 6 – November 5, 2024
・Time: In October, 9:30 AM – 5 PM (Weekends & holidays: 8:30 AM – 6 PM, times may vary; check the official website for details)
・Admission: Dynamic pricing, check the official website for updated information. Same-day ticket prices: Adults (18–64): 3,900 yen+; Children (3–17, high school students) and Seniors (65+): 2,800 yen+
・Closed: October 23 & 24, 2024
* Halloween PUROPASS required for reserved seating at shows.

At Immersive Fort Tokyo, the world’s first immersive theme park that opened in Odaiba in March 2024, their first-ever Halloween event will take place. During the day, visitors can join a costume party, and from 5 PM, the "Halloween Panic Night" begins. You'll encounter swarms of zombies in alleyways, lurking in warehouses that react to sound, and massive, terrifying zombies roaming the main street.

In the evening, there’s even more fun with the "Halloween Horror" experience, where you can scream your heart out and let off some steam. Along with interactive shows, there will be exclusive Halloween food and merchandise for sale. For a limited time during Halloween, the park is lifting its usual ban on full-face masks and face paint, allowing guests to fully embrace their creativity—just keep it tasteful and avoid costumes that are overly revealing or too frightening for others.

Event Details
・Venue: Immersive Fort Tokyo
・Dates: September 13 – November 30, 2024
・Time: 12 PM – 8 PM
・Admission: Halloween Special 1-Day Pass: Adults 4,800 yen, Children (4–11 years) 2,000 yen, and more options available

Held at Asakusa Hanayashiki, Japan's oldest amusement park, this Halloween event features the "Hanalloween Show" performed by the Hanayashiki entertainment team on the Flower Stage (1 PM daily, 3 PM on weekdays). On weekends and holidays at 3 PM, visitors can participate in the "Monster Showdown," where guests face off against monsters in games like rock-paper-scissors and other mini-games. Both shows are interactive, with plenty of dancing, singing, and fun for everyone, plus candy for participants! Costumes are welcome (check the official website for costume guidelines).

Event Details
・Venue: Asakusa Hanayashiki
・Dates: October 5 – November 4, 2024
・Time: 10 AM – 6 PM (last admission 30 minutes before closing; times may vary depending on the weather)
・Admission: Adults 1,200 yen, Children (ages 5 – elementary school) and Seniors (65+) 600 yen, Children (0 – 4) free

The annual and highly popular Halloween event returns this fall at Universal Studios Japan. During the day, enjoy the lively "Ha Ha Ha! Halloween Party," while at night, experience the spine-chilling "Halloween Horror Night."

Ha Ha Ha! Halloween Party

The highlight of the "Ha Ha Ha! Halloween Party" is the "Pokémon Jumpin’ Halloween Party." DJ Pikachu, DJ Gengar, and other ghost-type Pokémon like Mimikyu will join in for a high-energy celebration of singing and dancing! Additionally, My Melody and Kuromi will make a special appearance in USJ Halloween-exclusive costumes for the "My Melody & Kuromi Happy Halloween Greeting."

Event Details
・Venue: Universal Studios Japan
・Dates: September 5 – November 4, 2024
・Time: Varies by event
・Admission: Participation is free for this event (separate admission ticket to USJ required; prices vary by date). Tickets for special viewing areas are available separately (1,900 yen – 2,100 yen for adults/children/seniors, depending on the day).

Halloween Horror Night

After enjoying the daytime "Ha Ha Ha! Halloween Party," the evening brings Universal Studios Japan’s iconic Halloween event, where the park transforms into a terrifying, scream-filled experience. In the "Street Zombies" event, you’ll team up with the Blue Rose Squad, led by Captain Ado, who has the power to break curses through song. Brace yourself as hordes of zombies flood the streets, shrieking and lunging at guests for a spine-chilling horror experience.

There are also 10 additional nighttime events, offering maximum thrills and scares. Due to the intensity, it’s recommended that children in elementary school or younger refrain from participating.

Event Details
・Venue: Universal Studios Japan
・Dates: September 6 – November 4, 2024
・Time: Varies by event (check the official website about one week before your visit)
・Admission: Participation is free for this event (separate admission ticket to USJ required; prices vary by date). Some events may require tickets for special viewing areas. Participation for preschoolers is not recommended, and elementary school children must have parental consent.

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Rokko Island, an artificial island in Kobe Harbor, will host the Kansai region's largest Halloween festival, "Rokko Island Halloween Festival 2024." The event features a Halloween stage, costume contest, costume parade, trick-or-treat activities, as well as food and drink booths, promotional stands, and more. Whether you’re attending solo, with friends, or family, there’s plenty to enjoy!

(Note: Prior registration is required for the costume contest and parade. Trick-or-treat, Halloween art corner, and Halloween kids’ festival booths will be available while supplies last.)

Event Details
・Venue: Rokko Island River Mall Event Plaza
・Dates: October 26 – 27, 2024
・Time: 11 AM – 5 PM
・Admission: Some activities require a fee

This event takes place at the Harvest Court Event Plaza on the first floor of Ario Sapporo, located in the suburbs of Sapporo. The Halloween parade will be held over two days, October 26 and 27, with three parades each day (12 PM, 2 PM, and 4 PM). Pre-registration is required to participate, with a limit of 100 participants per parade. Participation is limited to children, families, and groups that include children. Viewing the parade is free of charge.

Event Details
・Venue: Ario Sapporo
・Dates: October 26 – 27, 2024
・Time: 12 PM, 2 PM, 4 PM
・Admission: Free

his Halloween event is held at Shiroi Koibito Park, a sweets-themed park in Sapporo. Themed around "black cats" and "witches," the park will offer special Halloween sweets and dishes, including the highly recommended "Black Cat Magical Fondue" for two (3,300 yen, available at the Chocolate Lounge Oxford). There are also light snacks and drinks available.

On October 12, 13, 19, and 26, starting at 6 PM, the park will host a horror mission event called "The Hide-and-Seek of Fear, Led by Black Feathers." Participants must solve puzzles in the dark, where "something" lurks, and find their way back to the real world.

On October 26 and 27, you can join a pumpkin lantern-making workshop using real pumpkins (1,500 yen participation fee). During the Halloween season, kids aged 15 and under who arrive in costume can enter the park for free, a yearly tradition.

Event Details
・Venue: Shiroi Koibito Park
・Dates: September 1 – October 31, 2024
・Time: 10 AM – 6 PM (last paid admission at 4:30 PM)
・Admission: Paid areas: Adults (high school and up) 800 yen, Children (ages 4 to junior high) 400 yen
* Some activities may require additional fees

As the sun sets and twilight descends upon the Land of the Rising Sun, a different side of Japan awakens. From the quiet alleyways of Takayama to the vibrant metropolis of Tokyo, from Kyoto's age-old mysteries to the ethereal beauty of Arashiyama's bamboo groves, embark on a journey that intertwines tales of the supernatural with rich cultural insights. Step softly, for every shadow may hold a story, every whisper a legend.

Wander through the tranquil streets of Takayama's old town, where spine-chilling tales come to life. Listen to haunting stories in the very places they occurred before diving into the heart of the city's vibrant nightlife, complete with games and local delicacies. Round off your night at a cozy watering hole and embrace the city's unique after-hours ambiance.

Delve into Tokyo's eerie shadows with our cultural expert who unveils the city's spine-tingling history and folklore. This tour promises more than just a shiver down your spine, especially for the faint-hearted. But fear not, families with kids can still enjoy, as our guide ensures tales remain child-friendly while retaining their thrilling essence.

Traverse the less traveled paths of Kyoto, a city renowned for its beauty yet intertwined with the macabre and mysterious. From the Yasaka Shrine through Gion's alleys to Kiyomizu Temple, uncover a haunting history spanning over a millennium. Along the way, discover ancient burial grounds, haunted candy shops, underworld portals, and eerie monuments. Beyond the shadows, you'll gain insights into Japan's deep-rooted cultural and religious beliefs.

Explore Arashiyama's enigmatic allure after dusk. Navigate through the Bamboo Forest's moonlit corridors, marvel at the luminous Kimono Forest, and bask in the beauty of the Katsura River from the Togetsukyo Bridge. Concluding at Saga-Arashiyama Station, this tour guarantees a thrilling journey through Arashiyama's mysterious nocturnal landscape.

During the Halloween season from September to October, many hotel restaurants and cafés offer Halloween-themed buffets and afternoon teas. These feature sweets shaped like ghosts and bats, alongside carefully crafted desserts made with seasonal ingredients like sweet potatoes, chestnuts, and pumpkins. While lively costume events are fun, this is the perfect option for those who prefer to enjoy Japan's Halloween in a more relaxed and cozy setting.

Just a 5-minute walk from JR Keiyo Line’s Kaihin-Makuhari Station, Hotel New Otani Makuhari will host the "Sandwich & Sweets Buffet Chestnut and Grape Halloween Festival" featuring seasonal autumn flavors. Guests can enjoy all-you-can-eat Halloween-themed desserts, with 15 varieties on offer, including a tasting of three types of Mont Blanc made with Japanese chestnuts, along with treats like marron mille-feuille and grape tarts. In addition to sweets, the buffet also includes savory dishes like the hotel’s signature roast beef and freshly baked pizzas.

Additionally, on the hotel’s top floor, you can indulge in the "Halloween Afternoon Tea Set," offering photogenic sweets and seasonal delights featuring chestnuts, grapes, and sweet potatoes for a delightful tea experience.

Event Details
・Venue: Hotel New Otani Makuhari
・Dates: September 1 – October 31, 2024

Sandwich & Sweets Buffet Chestnut and Grape Halloween Festival
・Time: Lunch: Weekdays 11 AM – 2 PM (last entry), Weekends & holidays 11 AM – 2 PM (last entry); Dinner: Weekends & holidays only, 5:30 PM – 8 PM (*120-minute time limit for all sessions)
・Admission: Adults: Weekdays 6,500 yen, Weekends & holidays 7,000 yen; Elementary school students: 3,000 yen; Children (ages 4–6): 1,500 yen

Halloween Afternoon Tea Set
・Time: 11:30 AM – 5 PM (last order)
・Admission: 120-minute session: 6,600 yen per person; 150-minute session (with guaranteed window seat & welcome drink): 7,150 yen per person

The "Halloween Sweets Buffet 2024" will take place at the "Café & Dining Chef’s Palette" inside Sunshine City Prince Hotel, an 8-minute walk from Ikebukuro Station, from October 1 to 31, 2024.

The buffet will feature 20 spooky-themed sweets, including a mummy-faced gateau chocolat and a graveyard-inspired tiramisu. From October 25 to 31, a special demonstration corner will offer limited-time "Wagyu Teppanyaki Steak."

Event Details
・Venue: Sunshine City Prince Hotel
・Dates: October 1 – 31, 2024
・Time: Weekdays: 2:30 PM – 4:30 PM; Weekends & holidays: 11:30 AM – 1:30 PM, 2:30 PM – 4:30 PM, 5:30 PM – 7:30 PM
・Admission: Sweets Buffet: Weekdays: Adults (junior high school and above) 4,500 yen, Weekends & holidays: Adults 5,000 yen (from October 25 to 31, adult prices increase by 1,000 yen); Children: All days: Elementary school students 3,000 yen, ages 4–6 1,500 yen; À la carte menu: Kuroge Wagyu Halloween Burger Set (includes original drink) 3,500 yen

Located on the upper floors of the towering "Abeno Harukas," Osaka Marriott Miyako Hotel offers a special "Halloween Afternoon Tea" at its 19th-floor lounge, LOUNGE PLUS. The menu includes seven savory dishes such as salami and egg salad bruschetta, pumpkin flan, and dark carrot salad. For dessert, enjoy seven Halloween-themed sweets like ghost daifuku, purple sweet potato tart with bat-shaped cookies, and pumpkin Mont Blanc. The stunning views from approximately 100 meters above ground perfectly complement this Halloween dining experience.

Event Details
・Venue: Osaka Marriott Miyako Hotel
・Dates: October 15 – 31, 2024

Halloween Afternoon Tea
・Time: 11:30 AM – 5 PM (120-minute limit) (Business hours: 10 AM – 8 PM)
・Admission: 6,500 yen

Across from Kansai International Airport, the 256-meter tall, 54-story Stargate Hotel Kansai Airport hosts the "Halloween Buffet 2024" on weekends and holidays from September 1 to October 27, 2024, at its 54th-floor Sky Dining 256 "Stargate."

Guests can enjoy unlimited seasonal autumn dishes, including unique Halloween-themed sweets like the patissier’s special charcoal cola roll cake, charcoal petit cream puffs, and mummy macarons. The buffet also features savory dishes such as pumpkin and bacon quiche, duck with blood berry sauce, and eggplant and zucchini gratin. Dining with views overlooking Kansai International Airport is another highlight!

Event Details
・Venue: Stargate Hotel Kansai Airport
・Dates: Weekends and holidays, September 1 – October 27, 2024

Stargate Gourmet Buffet (Weekends and holidays only)
・Time: Lunch: 11:30 AM – 3 PM; Dinner: 5:30 PM – 9:30 PM (90-minute time limit, last order 30 minutes before closing)
・Admission: Lunch: Adults (junior high school and above) 5,000 yen, Seniors (65 and above) 4,500 yen; Dinner: Adults 6,000 yen, Seniors 5,500 yen; Children (lunch and dinner): Elementary school students 2,000 yen, Ages 4–6 1,000 yen, Ages 3 and under free

From exciting events and thrilling ghost tours to delightful sweets buffets at cafés, Japan’s Halloween offers a wide range of experiences. Be sure to follow the rules and enjoy Japan’s unique take on Halloween to the fullest!

(The information in this article is current as of the end of September 2024. Please check official websites for the latest details.)