First, there’s one thing you should know. This is completely different from the Western-style illuminations that decorate Christmas trees.

In Japanese, také means bamboo and akari means light. True to its name, this event celebrates the beauty of bamboo illuminated from within. Artisans carefully drill countless tiny holes into each stalk to create intricate patterns, then place a light inside. The gentle glow that filters through the bamboo casts an enchanting play of light and shadow, transforming the entire space into something quietly magical.

This is the essence of “Také Akari,” a poetic expression of Japanese craftsmanship and nature in harmony.

The group behind this breathtaking light installation is CHIKAKEN, Japan’s foremost bamboo light design and production collective.

If the name sounds familiar, you might already be a true Japan enthusiast. CHIKAKEN has created installations for some of the nation’s most significant events, including the 2016 G7 Ise-Shima Summit and the 2023 G7 Hiroshima Summit. These artists, chosen to represent Japan at such prestigious occasions, now bring their exceptional craftsmanship to Tokyo’s traditional downtown area, illuminating it with the beauty of “Také Akari.”

Now in its fourth year, the main highlight of this event is its larger scale.

In addition to popular spots like TOKYO mizumachi® and Ushijima Shrine, the illuminated area along the Kitajikken River Terrace will be greatly expanded, extending from Genshin Bridge to Koume Bridge for about 400 meters.

For the first time, the historic Asakusa district and the modern symbol of Tokyo, Tokyo Skytree Town, will be linked by a warm “Path of Light” created by the Také Akari.

A glowing walkway that connects the past and future of Tokyo. Just imagining it is enough to stir excitement.

You might be wondering, “Tokyo has so many things to see—why go out of my way for this?” The answer is simple. There’s a special reason we want international visitors to experience this event.

Asakusa and Tokyo Skytree are among Tokyo’s most visited destinations. While the area is full of energy during the day, many visitors find themselves wondering what to do after sunset. This event offers the perfect answer.

After exploring Senso-ji Temple and taking in the view from Tokyo Skytree, you can now stroll between the two along what might be the most magical walkway in the city.

Unlike illuminations that simply fill a space with dazzling brightness, “Také Akari” reflects a distinctly Japanese sense of beauty—one that finds harmony in the balance between light and shadow. The soft glow that seeps through the bamboo openings and the gentle reflections dancing on the water’s surface evoke the quiet grace of wabi-sabi, the appreciation of beauty in stillness and imperfection.

We’ll share the details later, but this event is more than simply admiring beautiful scenery. It offers experiences that engage all five senses, from a waterfront concert and night cruises to a lively market and a workshop where you can create your own Také Akari.

So, where exactly can you go, and what kind of sights await you? We will divide the vast area into six must-see spots for you!

This is the main area and the highlight of this year’s event. Spherical Také Akari pieces called Takemari line the waterfront for about 400 meters, their warm light glowing gently across the surface. The sight of these bamboo spheres seeming to float on the water, paired with their shimmering reflections, creates a breathtakingly magical scene.

Ushijima Shrine, long cherished by the local community, is also bathed in the gentle glow of the Také Akari. Now in its fourth year, this illumination has become a beloved winter tradition. The solemn atmosphere of the shrine blends beautifully with the warmth of the bamboo lights, creating a space where you can feel the quiet depth of Japanese emotion and tradition.

The Sumida River Walk is a pedestrian bridge that serves as the shortest route between Asakusa and Tokyo Skytree Town.

Here, a graceful arch of Také Akari illuminations appears overhead. Walking toward Tokyo Skytree through this glowing tunnel of light is an unforgettable experience that feels both serene and spectacular.

Sumida Park sits right next to the Sumida River Walk.

Here, you’ll find one-of-a-kind Také Akari creations made by participants of the “Také Akari Workshop,” which we’ll introduce later. Each piece reflects the care and creativity of its maker. As you stroll along this gentle path of light, take a moment to feel the warmth and emotion that flow from every glowing artwork.

When you need a break from walking, stop by this café. Located right along the Sumida River, it offers a beautiful terrace with panoramic views of Tokyo Skytree.

The Také Akari installations introduced during last year’s renewal will once again illuminate the riverside this winter. Enjoy the shimmering lights while sipping a warm cup of coffee; it's a great way to unwind and take in the moment.

Even after your stroll through the skies at the Tokyo Skytree observation deck, the experience isn’t over yet.

Také Akari installations await in the exit area, glowing softly against a backdrop featuring Tokyo Skytree itself. This radiant display offers a spectacular send-off, bringing your visit to a beautiful close.

The true essence of this event is the beautiful experiences it offers.

If the dates fit your itinerary, we strongly encourage you to join them!

With the Také Akari-lit river terrace serving as the audience area, an extraordinary concert will take place right on the water. The performance features members of the New Japan Philharmonic, one of Japan’s premier orchestras. The elegant sounds of the string quartet blend beautifully with the gentle glow of the bamboo lights, their harmonies reflecting softly across the water.

Following its immense popularity last year, the concert will be held in two parts this year.

The view from the riverbank is beautiful, but seeing the Také Akari from the water is something truly special.

This night cruise offers the rare chance to admire the bamboo lights along the Kitajikken River Terrace and the Sumida River Walk from the shimmering surface of the river. You’ll also enjoy sweeping views of Asakusa and Tokyo Skytree Town, making for an evening you’ll never forget.

The Také Akari Marché will be held for the first time this year. Coinciding with the dates of the waterfront concerts and cruises, around five food and merchandise stalls will open near Koumebashi Pier.

Enjoy a leisurely stroll through the glowing lights with a warm drink or a light snack in hand.

You can even join a free workshop to create your own Také Akari. Friendly rickshaw drivers from Tokyo Rickshaw in Asakusa will guide you through each step with care.

One of the bamboo lights you make will be displayed in Sumida Park, becoming part of the glowing path of light.

Your creation will help illuminate Tokyo’s nightscape: a lasting memory and a small piece of the festival’s beauty.

With so many highlights, you might be wondering how best to see everything. Therefore, we propose a model course designed for a perfect transition from your Asakusa sightseeing!

4 PM: Start Asakusa Sightseeing
Begin with a visit to Senso-ji Temple and Kaminarimon Gate. Enjoy sampling some street food as you explore.

5 PM: Aim for the Moment of Illumination
Head toward the Sumida River and wait near TULLY’S COFFEE Hanakawado Sumida Park Store to witness the lights turning on at 5 PM.

5:30 PM: Stroll through Sumida Park & Ushijima Shrine
Walk through Sumida Park, where workshop creations are displayed, and visit the tranquil Ushijima Shrine. Capture photos of the shrine framed with Tokyo Skytree.

6:15 PM: Cross the Tunnel of Light
Pass through the Také Akari arch along the Sumida River Walk to enter the Tokyo Skytree Town area.

6:45 PM: Experience the Magic of the Main Area
Arrive at TOKYO mizumachi and the Kitajikken River Terrace. Take your time walking the 400-meter Path of Light. The floating Takemari reflected on the water is a highlight not to be missed.

7:15 PM: Dinner at the Marché (if open)
Pick up a warm drink or Japanese comfort food at the Také Akari Marché. Enjoy a relaxed dinner surrounded by soft, glowing lights.

8 PM: Head to Tokyo Skytree Town
Make your way to Tokyo Skytree. Visit the observation deck, admire the Také Akari display on the 5th Floor Exit Area, or browse Solamachi’s shops as you end your evening in a perfect afterglow.

Finally, here is a summary of the basic event information.

Tokyo Shitamachi Kaiyu Také Akari
・Dates: Nov 7, 2025 to Jan 31, 2026
・Lighting Hours: 5 PM to 10 PM
・Locations: TOKYO mizumachi, Sumida River Walk, Kitajikken River Terrace (between Makurabashi and Koumebashi Bridges), Ushijima Shrine, Sumida Park, TULLY’S COFFEE Hanakawado Sumida Park Store, Tokyo Skytree® 5th Floor Exit Area, and more
・Admission: Free viewing (some events such as cruises, the Marché, and workshop may require a fee)

Access
・Asakusa Area Side: A short walk from Asakusa Station on the Tobu Skytree Line, Tokyo Metro Ginza Line, Toei Asakusa Line, and others
・Skytree Area Side: A short walk from Tokyo Skytree Station on the Tobu Skytree Line, or from Oshiage (Skytree-mae) Station on various lines

The “Tokyo Shitamachi Kaiyu Také Akari” is more than an event for admiring beautiful night scenery. It is an experience where you can feel Japan’s traditional sense of beauty, the passion of world-class artists, and the warmth of the local downtown community.

The gentle light shining through each piece of bamboo will illuminate not only your path but also your heart with quiet tenderness.

This winter, witness with your own eyes a luminous story that can only be found in Tokyo.