When the crisp winter air descends upon Tokyo, the city doesn’t go dark — it explodes with light. From mid-November through the new year, iconic districts transform into dazzling wonderlands as millions of meticulously placed LED lights bring forth one of the capital’s most beloved annual traditions: the winter illuminations. From elegant champagne-gold avenues to gorgeously lit Christmas trees, these spectacular displays can turn a chilly evening into a magical, romantic escape.
Must-See Tokyo Illuminations: Our Top Picks
Shibuya Blue Cave Illumination 2025
This popular illumination creates an immersive "blue cave" experience by covering a street near Yoyogi Park with hundreds of thousands of dazzling blue LED lights.
| Date & Time | Dec 04-25・17:00-22:00 |
| Price | Free |
| Location | Shibuya Koen Dori |
Tokyo Midtown Christmas 2025
Tokyo Midtown Christmas 2025 is set to turn Roppongi into a magnificent winter wonderland based on the theme, "Your Christmas Story." Visitors can delight in the enchanting bubble and snow illuminations, stroll along the glittering "Path of Lights" and admire the unique "Santa Tree."
| Date & Time | Nov 13-Dec 25・17:00-23:00 |
| Price | Free |
| Location | Tokyo Midtown |
Marunouchi Illumination 2025-2026
This elegant display features approximately 820,000 champagne-gold LED lights adorning over 340 trees along the 1.2 km stretch of Marunouchi Naka-dori and Gyoko-dori Avenue. It's a classic, sophisticated winter tradition in the upscale business district, known for its warm, refined ambiance and eco-friendly lighting.
| Date & Time | Nov 11, 2025-Feb 15, 2026・16:00-23:00・Gyoko-dori Ave Illuminations 16:00 - 24:00, Nov 28 – Dec 25 only |
| Price | Free |
| Location | Tokyo Station area and Marunouchi-Nakadori Ave |
Yebisu Garden Place Illumination 2025-2026
This spot exudes luxury and charm, highlighted by one of the world's largest Baccarat crystal chandeliers, featuring thousands of crystals and lights. The area also boasts a magnificent Christmas tree and a festive European-style market, creating an elegant holiday atmosphere.
| Date & Time | Nov 8, 2025-Mar 1, 2026・16:00-23:00・From 17:00 on November 8 |
| Price | Free |
| Location | Yebisu Garden Place |
Roppongi Hills Christmas Illumination 2025
The 400-meter-long Keyakizaka street transforms into a beautiful tunnel of light with about 800,000 blue and white LEDs. The glittering trees line the chic street, providing a famously romantic view with the illuminated Tokyo Tower visible in the distance.
| Date & Time | Nov 04-Dec 25・17:00-23:00 |
| Price | Free |
| Location | Roppongi Hills Keyakizaka Street |
Shinjuku South Illumination 2025-2026
The Shinjuku "Minamillumi" transforms the Shinjuku South Exit area into a festive, illuminated walkway. Starting at the New South Gate, the glowing path connects Southern Terrace, Shinjuku Mylord and Takashimaya Times Square, with each location featuring its own unique lighting theme. This event offers a warm, calming escape from the city rush, showcasing Shinjuku’s softer holiday side.
| Date & Time | Nov 12, 2025-Feb 15, 2026・17:00-23:00 |
| Price | Free |
| Location | Shinjuku Southern Terrace, Shinjuku Mylord, Takashimaya Times Square |
image courtesy of qetic
Tokyo Mega Illumination 2025-2026
The Tokyo Mega Illumination is a vast, dynamic spectacle held at the Oi Racecourse, featuring one of the largest light installations in the Tokyo area. Highlights include the spectacular Aurora Forest and a vibrant, synchronized Rainbow Fountain show, often combined with interactive displays and appearances by miniature horses.
| Date & Time | Nov 1, 2025-Jan 11, 2026・16:30-21:00・Last entry 20:00 |
| Price | Advance: Adults ¥800-¥1,300 / Children ¥400-¥700 |
| Location | Oi Racecourse |
| More Info | Check website for detailed pricing options |
Hibiya Magic Time Illuminations 2025
The streets of Hibiya welcomes guests to experience the magic of holiday illuminations, including a special collaboration with Zootopia.
| Date & Time | Nov 13, 2025-Feb 28, 2026・16:00-23:00 |
| Price | Free |
| Location | Tokyo Midtown Hibiya Step Plaza |
Omotesando Christmas Illumination 2025
The Omotesando Illumination offers a sophisticated 1 km light-lit walk along Omotesando Avenue, featuring over 900,000 lights wound around the trees to create a classic winter-wonderland feel. The full display runs until December 28th, operating daily from sunset until 10 p.m., but the shrubs will remain lit until early January. While you're there, be sure to visit Omotesando Hills, which is known for unveiling impressive, unique Christmas trees each year.
| Date & Time | Dec 01-Jan 05・17:00-22:00・Trees Lit Only Until December 28 |
| Price | Free |
| Location | Omotesando Avenue |
Tips for Enjoying Tokyo Illuminations
- Best time to visit: For a more relaxed experience, visit on weekday evenings. Arriving just before sunset allows you to enjoy the transition from dusk to a dazzling display of lights.
- Photography tips: Use a tripod and experiment with long exposure settings to capture fantastic, glittering images. Don’t forget to try creative angles to add new dimensions to your pictures.
- Transportation: Public transport can get crowded, so make sure you leave plenty of time to get to where you need to be.
- Food and drink: Warm up at nearby cafes or treat yourself to seasonal specialties at local restaurants. Don’t miss out on festive Christmas markets, like the ones at Roppongi or near Tokyo Sky Tree.
