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Brighten Up Your Winter: 13 of the Best Tokyo Illuminations (2023-2024)

Brighten Up Your Winter: 13 of the Best Tokyo Illuminations (2023-2024)

Last updated: 30 October 2023

As anyone who has spent time in Japan knows, winter is all about the Tokyo illuminations! With new surprises every year, almost every neighborhood in Tokyo boasts its own stunning lights festival to brighten up the town and bring smiles to the residents!

Tokyo’s thrilling and romantic light shows are a great place to spend time with loved ones or rekindle your festive spirit to see off the year.

From Roppongi, Hibiya, and other famous neighborhoods to brand-new, never-before-seen projects, we’ll let you in on the best places to enjoy Tokyo’s holiday lights!

Table of Contents
  1. 1. Shimmering Champagne Gold: Marunouchi Illumination 2023 with 1.2 Million Lights
  2. 2. Roppongi Hills Christmas 2023 - Tokyo's Winter Tradition
  3. 3. Baccarat ETERNAL LIGHTS - Shapes of Joy - Featuring the World's Largest Baccarat Chandelier in Ebisu
  4. 4. Tokyo Dome City Winter Illumination - A Seasonal Spectacle
  5. 5. "Shinjuku Minami Lumi" Illuminates the Entire South Exit Area of Shinjuku
  6. 6. HIBIYA Magic Time Illumination 2023: Experience Magical Moments in a Gradation-Colored Space
  7. 7. MIDTOWN WINTER LIGHTS: Step into a Fantastical Another World After Dusk
  8. 8. Odaiba ILLUMINATION 'YAKEI': Sparkling Against the Backdrop of Tokyo Bay's Night Sky
  9. 9. Yomiuriland Jewel Illumination® – A Symphony of Diverse Lights
  10. 10. Meguro River 'Minna no Illumination 2023' - Decorating Meguro River's Cherry Blossoms with LED Lights
  11. 11. Omotesando Fendi Illumination 2023: A Fantastical Scene with 900,000 Lights on Zelkova Trees
  12. 12. Shibuya Blue Cave: Featuring Christmas Cards for the First Time in 3 Years
  13. 13. Shinagawa Season Terrace Illumination: A Mysterious Blue Illumination with Tokyo Tower

1. Shimmering Champagne Gold: Marunouchi Illumination 2023 with 1.2 Million Lights

1. Shimmering Champagne Gold: Marunouchi Illumination 2023 with 1.2 Million Lights

The Marunouchi area in Tokyo is set to sparkle again with its 22nd annual Marunouchi Illumination. This enchanting event lights up the elegant Marunouchi Nakadori, a stretch of about 1.2 kilometers lined with chic shops and over 360 trees. These trees will be bedecked with around 1.2 million LED lights in a sophisticated 'Champagne Gold,' creating a mesmerizing ambiance.

In addition, from late November to Christmas Day, the illumination will extend to Gyoko Street, a picturesque route connecting the Imperial Palace Outer Gardens to Tokyo Station. This adds an extra layer of magic to the festive season.

A special treat awaits at the Shin-Marunouchi Building's 7th floor terrace, known as the 'Marunouchi House.' Here, during the illumination period, visitors can enjoy exclusive hot menu items, perfect for chilly evenings. The terrace offers a unique vantage point to view the dazzling lights while savoring warm delicacies.

Event Details
・When: November 16, 2023 to February 18, 2024
・Time: 3:00 PM – Midnight
・Admission: Free
・Closed: Open daily

  • Marunouchi Illuminations
    • Address Marunouchi Nakadori, Marunouchi Building, etc., Marunouchi, Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo, 100-0005
      View Map
    • Nearest Station Tokyo Station (Tokaido Shinkansen Line / Hokkaido Shinkansen Line / Tohoku Shinkansen Line / Akita Shinkansen Line / Yamagata Shinkansen Line / Joetsu Shinkansen Line / Hokuriku Shinkansen Line / JR Tokaido Main Line / JR Yokosuka Line / JR Sobu Main Line / JR Sobu Main Line (Rapid) / JR Keihin-Tohoku Line / JR Yamanote Line / JR Chuo Main Line / JR Keiyo Line / JR Ueno Tokyo Line / Tokyo Metro Marunouchi Line)
    • Phone Number 03-5218-5100
  • The Tokyo Station Hotel
    • Address Chiyoda-ku Marunouchi 1-9-1, Tokyo, 100-0005
      View Map
    • Nearest Station Tokyo Station (Tokaido Shinkansen Line / Hokkaido Shinkansen Line / Tohoku Shinkansen Line / Akita Shinkansen Line / Yamagata Shinkansen Line / Joetsu Shinkansen Line / Hokuriku Shinkansen Line / JR Tokaido Main Line / JR Yokosuka Line / JR Sobu Main Line / JR Sobu Main Line (Rapid) / JR Keihin-Tohoku Line / JR Yamanote Line / JR Chuo Main Line / JR Keiyo Line / JR Ueno Tokyo Line / Tokyo Metro Marunouchi Line)
      1 minute on foot

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2. Roppongi Hills Christmas 2023 - Tokyo's Winter Tradition

2. Roppongi Hills Christmas 2023 - Tokyo's Winter Tradition

As the chill of winter descends upon Tokyo, the beloved Keyakizaka Illumination marks its return, heralding the season's arrival. This winter tradition transforms the nearly 400-meter-long Keyaki tree-lined street into a breathtaking spectacle of light and color. With the theme 'SNOW & BLUE,' about 800,000 LED lights cast a dreamy glow over the area, creating a magical winter wonderland.

For those looking to capture this stunning display, two spots offer the best views. The area near 'Tiffany' in Keyakizaka Street and the vicinity of 'Roppongi Tsutaya Bookstore' are prime locations for photography enthusiasts. These spots allow you to take in the full scope of the illumination from both above and below the slope. The timing of the lights turning on is especially conducive to filming, offering a chance to create beautiful videos of this winter highlight.

Event Details
・When: November 6, 2023 to December 25, 2023
・Time: 5 PM – 11 PM
・Admission: Free
・Closed: Open daily

3. Baccarat ETERNAL LIGHTS - Shapes of Joy - Featuring the World's Largest Baccarat Chandelier in Ebisu

3. Baccarat ETERNAL LIGHTS - Shapes of Joy - Featuring the World's Largest Baccarat Chandelier in Ebisu

Ebisu Garden Place in Tokyo is gearing up for its dazzling 'WINTER ILLUMINATION,' a festive spectacle that has become an annual tradition. Celebrating its 24th year, this event will light up the area with the glow of 250 Baccarat chandeliers, creating an atmosphere of elegance and festivity.

A special highlight this year is the return of the Christmas tree at the Clock Plaza, after a four-year hiatus. The 10-meter-tall tree, a centerpiece of the celebration, will be lavishly decorated with over 300 ornaments, predominantly in vibrant shades of red. This majestic tree, combined with the shimmering chandeliers, promises to make Ebisu Garden Place a must-visit destination for those seeking to immerse themselves in the holiday spirit.

Event Details
・When: November 11, 2023 to January 8, 2024
・Time: 11 AM – 11 PM (Illumination scheduled to start at 5 PM on November 11, Saturday; subject to change based on circumstances)
・Admission: Free
・Closed: Open daily

4. Tokyo Dome City Winter Illumination - A Seasonal Spectacle

4. Tokyo Dome City Winter Illumination - A Seasonal Spectacle

Tokyo Dome City is all set to host its spectacular annual winter illumination, promising an exciting experience for visitors this year. The theme for this season is 'SHOW,' adding a dash of theatrical flair to the festivities. The illumination is not just about lights; it's an entire experience designed to captivate and entertain.

Adding to the charm, a special area within Tokyo Dome City, creatively produced by the comedian Shohhei Naga from the Yoshimoto Kogyo talent agency, features unique and meticulously crafted decorations. This area is filled with various surprises, ensuring that every visit is filled with moments of joy and wonder. It's an ideal spot for those looking to add a touch of whimsy and laughter to their winter evenings.

Event Details
・When: November 21, 2023 to February 29, 2024
・Time: 5 PM – Midnight
・Admission: Free
・Closed: Open daily

  • Tokyo Dome City
    東京ドームシティ
    • Address 1-3-61 Koraku, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo
    • Nearest Station JR Suidobashi Station West Exit, Toei Subway Mita Line Suidobashi Station Exit A2, Tokyo Metro Marunouchi Line and Namboku Line Korakuen Station Exit 2, Toei Subway Oedo Line Kasuga Station Exit 6
    • Open hours: Varies depending on the facility/store

5. "Shinjuku Minami Lumi" Illuminates the Entire South Exit Area of Shinjuku

5. "Shinjuku Minami Lumi" Illuminates the Entire South Exit Area of Shinjuku

"Shinjuku Minami Lumi" is set to transform the Shinjuku South Exit area into a dazzling wonderland under the theme "What Lies Beyond the Sparkle." This enchanting event, running from mid-November to mid-February, promises to captivate visitors with a variety of illuminated attractions.

Key features include the "Welcome Gate" and impressive "SHINJUKU" letter sculptures, situated in the Suica Penguin Square, which is conveniently located right next to the New South Exit ticket gates of Shinjuku Station. Furthermore, a corridor of lights creates a magical pathway leading to the Shinjuku Southern Terrace, Shinjuku Minami Tower, and Takashimaya Times Square.

Each of these spots is embellished with lights and decorations that beautifully reflect the event's theme, creating an immersive experience that bathes the entire area in a warm, radiant glow. This event is perfect for those looking to experience the beauty and excitement of Tokyo's winter illuminations.

Event Details
・When: November 17, 2023 - February 14, 2024
・Hours: 5 PM - Midnight (Starting in December, some areas may begin lighting up at 4:30 PM)
・Admission: Free
・Closed: Open daily

6. HIBIYA Magic Time Illumination 2023: Experience Magical Moments in a Gradation-Colored Space

6. HIBIYA Magic Time Illumination 2023: Experience Magical Moments in a Gradation-Colored Space

The HIBIYA Magic Time Illumination 2023 is set to cast a spell over the entire Hibiya area, including Tokyo Midtown Hibiya, Hibiya Nakadori, and Hibiya Shante. Running from mid-November to mid-February, this magical event promises to transform the streets of Hibiya into a fantastical wonderland.

Visitors will be enveloped in a mesmerizing gradation of colors that mimic the ethereal beauty of the aurora. Amidst these enchanting lights, it's easy to forget the hustle and bustle of daily life and immerse yourself in a world of relaxation and wonder.

A special feature of the event is the Hibiya Step Plaza, where seven Christmas trees will be showcased. These trees will be adorned with vibrant, full-color illuminations, each symbolizing the event's theme, "BEST WISHES." This dazzling display is sure to captivate the hearts of all who visit, creating unforgettable memories of Tokyo's winter charm.

Event Details
・When: November 16, 2023 - February 14, 2024
・Operating Hours: 5 PM - 11 PM
・Admission: Free
・Closed: Open daily

7. MIDTOWN WINTER LIGHTS: Step into a Fantastical Another World After Dusk

7. MIDTOWN WINTER LIGHTS: Step into a Fantastical Another World After Dusk

MIDTOWN WINTER LIGHTS at Tokyo Midtown in Roppongi is a must-see this winter season, running from mid-November to Christmas Day. The event transforms Tokyo Midtown into a dazzling spectacle, with the entire area bathed in sparkling gold lights.

The highlight of this event is the "Path of Light," a beautifully illuminated route that invites visitors to take a leisurely winter stroll through a golden wonderland. Adding to the festive ambiance are the "Gold Trees," Christmas installations inspired by golden trees, which enhance the charm and warmth of the season.

Each area within Tokyo Midtown is thoughtfully lit, creating an enchanting atmosphere that is perfect for experiencing the joy and beauty of winter in Tokyo. This free event offers a delightful escape into a world of light and color, making it an ideal destination for those looking to soak in the festive spirit.

Event Details
・When: November 16, 2023 - December 25, 2023
・Operating Hours: 5 PM - 11 PM
・Admission: Free
・Closed: Open daily

8. Odaiba ILLUMINATION 'YAKEI': Sparkling Against the Backdrop of Tokyo Bay's Night Sky

8. Odaiba ILLUMINATION 'YAKEI': Sparkling Against the Backdrop of Tokyo Bay's Night Sky

The Odaiba area in Tokyo offers a year-round illumination event that is a feast for the eyes, set against a backdrop featuring iconic landmarks like Tokyo Tower, Tokyo Skytree, Rainbow Bridge, and the stunning night scenery of Tokyo Bay. This event is highlighted by the "Odaiba Memorial Tree," an impressive structure approximately 20 meters tall and 10 meters wide. The tree is spectacularly adorned with lights in seven different colors, making it a captivating sight to behold.

Additionally, the art spot "ODAIBA" at Seaside Terrace has recently undergone a renovation after three years. This spot now incorporates the color blue in its illuminations, a choice that reflects the theme of Decks Tokyo Beach and mirrors the sea of Odaiba. This thoughtful inclusion of blue not only enhances the beauty of the illuminations but also ties them to the natural beauty and maritime character of Odaiba.

This illumination event, free to all visitors, offers a perfect opportunity to enjoy a magical evening stroll, surrounded by mesmerizing lights and the enchanting ambiance of Tokyo's waterfront.

Event Details
・Year-round
・Hours: From sunset to midnight
・Admission: Free
・Closed: Open daily

9. Yomiuriland Jewel Illumination® – A Symphony of Diverse Lights

9. Yomiuriland Jewel Illumination® – A Symphony of Diverse Lights

Yomiuriland's annual illumination event, now in its 14th year, promises to be a dazzling experience under the artistic direction of renowned lighting designer Mikako Ishii. This year's theme, "LIGHT is LOVE," is a beautiful representation of affection and appreciation for people, nature, and the Earth, all conveyed through the medium of light.

Visitors to the park during this event will be treated to a stunning display of various jewel colors, including the newly introduced "Earth Blue Jewelry Color." This color addition brings a fresh and vibrant touch to the already magnificent display, enhancing the overall experience.

Set in the fun and lively atmosphere of Yomiuriland, this illumination event is more than just a visual treat; it's an expression of love and beauty through light, offering a unique and heartwarming experience to all who visit.

Event Details
・When: October 19, 2023 – April 7, 2024
・Hours: 4 PM to 8:30 PM
・Admission: Please check Yomiuriland's website for ticket prices
・Closed: Please check Yomiuriland's website for park operating days

10. Meguro River 'Minna no Illumination 2023' - Decorating Meguro River's Cherry Blossoms with LED Lights

(Photo from past event)
(Photo from past event)

The Meguro River in Tokyo becomes a canvas of light and awareness with its community-based illumination event, running from early November to early January. This unique event has a profound environmental message, as it recycles used cooking oil collected from the local area to power the LED lights that illuminate the winter cherry blossoms® along the river.

This sustainable approach to lighting not only creates a mesmerizing spectacle along the Meguro River but also serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of rethinking our energy generation methods. By using self-generated power from recycled materials, the event addresses a critical 21st-century challenge, blending beauty with environmental consciousness.

Visitors to this event will experience the magical sight of 'winter cherry blossoms' aglow in the evening, all the while contributing to and learning about sustainable practices. This event is an excellent opportunity for both locals and visitors to enjoy the beauty of Tokyo's winters and reflect on the impact of our energy choices.

Event Details
・When: November 10, 2023 – January 8, 2024
・Hours: 5 PM – 10 PM
・Admission: Free
・Closed: No closures

  • Meguro River
    • Address Meguro-ku, Tokyo Setagaya-ku, Shinagawa-ku, 153-0043
      View Map
    • Nearest Station Meguro Station (JR Yamanote Line / Tokyo Metro Namboku Line / Toei Mita Line / Tokyu Meguro Line)
      5 minutes on foot

11. Omotesando Fendi Illumination 2023: A Fantastical Scene with 900,000 Lights on Zelkova Trees

(Photo from past event)
(Photo from past event)

Every winter, the iconic Omotesando in Tokyo is transformed into a luminous wonderland, and this year is no exception. From December 1st to the end of the month, the stretch from Jingu Bridge Intersection to Omotesando Intersection will be aglow with winter illuminations.

This spectacular display involves the installation of LED lights on shrubs in the planting zones along this route. Approximately 900,000 LED lights will bathe the area in a radiant champagne gold hue, creating an enchanting atmosphere. The entire span of about 1 kilometer will be illuminated, offering a breathtaking sight to those who walk through this famed fashion and shopping district.

While the main event concludes on December 28th, the shrub lighting will continue until January 5th of the following year, extending the festive spirit. This free event is a beautiful way to experience the charm and elegance of Tokyo during the winter season.

Event Details
・When: December 1, 2023 – December 28, 2023 (*Shrubs lit until January 5, 2024)
・Hours: From sunset to 10 PM
・Admission: Free
・Closed: No closures

  • Omotesando Hills
    • Address 4-12-10, Jinguumae, Shibuya-ku, Tokyo, 150-0001
      View Map
    • Nearest Station Omotesando Station (Tokyo Metro Ginza Line / Tokyo Metro Chiyoda Line / Tokyo Metro Hanzomon Line)
      2 minutes on foot
    • Phone Number 03-3497-0310

12. Shibuya Blue Cave: Featuring Christmas Cards for the First Time in 3 Years

12. Shibuya Blue Cave: Featuring Christmas Cards for the First Time in 3 Years

The "Blue Cave" illumination, a mesmerizing light display that first captivated Tokyo's Nakameguro district in 2014, has become a much-anticipated annual event. While the details for the 2023 edition are still pending, it's typically held from early to late December. This enchanting event has not only graced Tokyo but also illuminated cities like Sapporo, Osaka, and Fukuoka.

In its 2019 edition, the "Blue Cave" transformed the streets from Shibuya Park Street to the Yoyogi Park Zelkova Trees. Around 600,000 blue lights were used to create an innovative and romantic nightscape in Shibuya. After a three-year break, the 2022 event made a grand return with a large Christmas card installation at the Yoyogi Park Zelkova Tree-lined venue. This was further enhanced by Illumination Mapping, which brought moving light messages to life, adding an interactive and dynamic aspect to the display.

This event, free for all to enjoy, is a perfect way to experience a unique and captivating side of Tokyo during the winter season, where the ordinary streets turn into a magical blue wonderland after sunset.

Event Details (Tentative for 2023)
・When: Early December to late December (Exact dates pending)
・Hours: 5 PM to 10 PM
・Admission: Free
・Closed: Open daily

13. Shinagawa Season Terrace Illumination: A Mysterious Blue Illumination with Tokyo Tower

(Photo from past event)
(Photo from past event)

The Shinagawa Season Terrace Illumination is a delightful event that typically takes place from early to late December. While specifics for 2023 are still pending, this event annually transforms the area into a breathtaking spectacle of light and color.

Visitors can relish the sight of a vast lawn area, brilliantly adorned with blue lights, set against the striking urban night view of Shinagawa. This creates a serene and beautiful contrast, blending the tranquility of nature with the vibrancy of city life.

A unique feature of this illumination event is the "Stairway of Light," which starts from the Konan Exit of Shinagawa Station. This path features 10 different light displays, each welcoming visitors into a world of enchantment and wonder. The combination of these creative light installations and the surrounding urban landscape makes for a memorable experience.

This free event is an ideal way to enjoy the festive atmosphere and the beauty of winter illuminations in Tokyo, offering a magical escape in the heart of the city.

Event Details (Tentative for 2023)
・When: Early December to late December (Exact dates pending)
・Hours: 5 PM to 10 PM
・Admission: Free
・Closed: Open daily

  • Shinagawa Season Terrace
    品川シーズンテラス
    • Address 1-2-70 Konan, Minato-ku, Tokyo
    • Nearest Station 6-minute walk from JR Shinagawa Station (Konan Exit), 9-minute walk from Keihin Electric Express Shinagawa Station (Takanawa Exit)

Above, we introduced popular illumination spots in Tokyo. Keep in mind that these locations may get crowded, so try to visit during less busy times if possible.

(*Information as of November 2022, updated in October 2023. The time, duration, and content of the event may be subject to change or cancellation depending on circumstances. Please check the official websites before visiting.)
(*Photos are for illustrative purposes and may differ from those of the event.)

Written by:
Naho Jishikyu
Naho Jishikyu

Naho has been working as an editor and writer for over 17 years. After editing various materials such as manga, novels, and magazines, she became a freelancer. She is skilled in reporting and writing about food, sightseeing, and drama reviews while also providing web strategy consulting for food and beverage companies. As a result, she is always up-to-date on new products and trends in Japanese cuisine and conveys them in an understandable manner to people of all ages and nationalities through LIVE JAPAN.

*This information is from the time of this article's publication.
*Prices and options mentioned are subject to change.
*Unless stated otherwise, all prices include tax.

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