1. Introduction
Christmas in Japan is less about religious observance and more about celebrating with festive events, romantic dinners, and holiday shopping. While it’s not a national holiday, the season brings a magical atmosphere with stunning illuminations, lively Christmas markets, and unique local traditions. For tourists, experiencing Christmas in Japan offers a delightful mix of Western-inspired festivities and Japanese cultural twists. From the tradition of eating KFC on Christmas Eve to strolling under beautiful illuminations, it’s a time of joy and wonder for visitors.
2. Christmas Illuminations
Tokyo’s Best Illuminations
Christmas illuminations are one of the most enchanting aspects of Japan’s holiday season, with cities lighting up in breathtaking displays. Tokyo, in particular, is known for its fantastic light shows that brighten the winter evenings.
Roppongi Hills (Keyakizaka Illumination):
One of Tokyo’s most iconic Christmas displays, the Keyakizaka Illumination features stunning blue and white lights that frame the view of Tokyo Tower. This romantic spot is a favorite for couples and tourists alike, offering a dreamy backdrop for evening walks.
- Event Dates
November 7, 2024 (Thursday) – December 25, 2024 (Wednesday) - Time
5:00 PM – 11:00 PM
Please note that the start time on the first day may vary. - Location
Roppongi Hills - Venue
Various areas within Roppongi Hills, including Keyakizaka Street - Nearest Stations
Roppongi Station / Nogizaka Station / Azabu-Juban Station - Address
Roppongi 6-chome, Minato-ku, Tokyo
Omotesando:
Along this famous shopping avenue, thousands of golden lights illuminate the zelkova trees, creating a magical tunnel of light. Combining high-end shopping with festive cheer, it’s a unique experience for holiday-goers.
The event dates for 2024 have not yet been officially announced, but based on last year’s schedule, here’s what we expect:
- Expected Dates
December 1, 2024 – January 5, 2025 - Illumination Time
From sunset until 10:00 PM (tentative) - Nearest Stations
JR Harajuku Station/ Omotesando Station/ Meiji jingu Station - Location
Omotesando
Osaka’s Stunning Illuminations
In Osaka, the holiday season is marked by equally impressive light displays, creating a festive atmosphere throughout the city.
Umeda Sky Building:
This futuristic landmark offers panoramic views of Osaka’s skyline, which is beautifully lit during the Christmas season. The surrounding area is transformed into a winter wonderland with intricate light displays that captivate visitors.
The “UMEDA SKY BUILDING Christmas 2024” event will take place from Friday, November 22 to Wednesday, December 25, 2024, at the Umeda Sky Building.
Visitors will be enchanted by a stunning light show featuring a massive Christmas tree illuminated by approximately 130,000 LED lights.
- Location: Umeda Sky Building, 1st Floor, Wonder Square
- Dates: November 22, 2024 (Friday) – December 25, 2024 (Wednesday)
Midosuji Avenue:
Stretching over 4 km through Osaka’s city center, Midosuji Avenue becomes a dazzling spectacle of colorful lights, making it one of the city’s most popular illumination spots. The lively, vibrant atmosphere is perfect for a festive evening walk.
The “Midosuji Illumination,” which set a world record in January 2015, will once again light up the streets of Osaka with a grand and captivating display this year. The theme for 2024, “Grow Light,” symbolizes the idea of fostering both the community and the city through creative lighting events. Activities include public workshops where participants craft unique light art, along with mesmerizing projection mapping installations.
- Dates
November 3, 2024 (Sunday, National Holiday) – December 31, 2024 (Tuesday) - Time
Around 5:00 PM – 11:00 PM
On December 31, the lights will stay on until 1:00 AM. - Location
Midosuji Avenue (between Hanshin-mae Intersection and Namba Nishiguchi Intersection)
Kyoto’s Illuminations
Kyoto blends its traditional beauty with modern holiday lights, creating a peaceful yet magical holiday ambiance.
Kyoto Station Sky Garden:
The Sky Garden at Kyoto Station offers a mix of traditional and contemporary illuminations, providing stunning views of the city. It’s a serene spot to enjoy Christmas lights away from the hustle and bustle.
The “Grand Stairway Graphical Illumination” at Kyoto Station began in November 2012 to celebrate the 15th anniversary of the station’s opening. This stunning light display decorates 125 of the 171 steps on the station’s grand staircase, featuring approximately 15,000 LED lights that create seasonal-themed designs, making it a popular attraction throughout the year.
Illumination Period
September 1, 2023 – March 31, 2024
- Display TimesVaries by season:
- March – April & September: 4:00 PM – 10:00 PM
- May – August: 5:00 PM – 10:00 PM
- October – February: 3:00 PM – 10:00 PM
- Location: Kyoto Station
The illumination offers a magical, ever-changing display that reflects the beauty of each season, drawing visitors to one of Kyoto’s most iconic landmarks.
Yokohama’s Minato Mirai
Minato Mirai’s waterfront area in Yokohama is famous for its romantic Christmas lights, which reflect off the water for a beautiful, serene scene. The Red Brick Warehouse and the surrounding area are adorned with festive decorations, making it a great spot for a Christmas stroll and holiday photos.
The event at Grand Mall Park will be held from Saturday, November 9, 2024, to Sunday, February 9, 2025.
- Dates: November 9, 2024 (Saturday) – February 9, 2025 (Sunday)
- Time: 4:00 PM – 11:00 PM
Please note that the lighting times and the extent of the display may vary depending on the period. - Rain: The event will proceed regardless of rain.
- Location: Grand Mall Park, Minato Mirai 3-chome, Nishi-ku, Yokohama, Kanagawa
- Nearest Station: Minato Mirai Station
- Number of Lights: Approximately 35,000 LED lights
- Admission: Free
This event provides a beautiful evening illumination, perfect for a nighttime stroll in the heart of Yokohama’s Minato Mirai district.
3. Christmas Markets in Japan
Christmas markets have become increasingly popular in Japan, offering a cozy, European-inspired atmosphere. Here are some must-visit markets:
Tokyo Christmas Market (Meiji Jingu Gaien):
This year, the Tokyo Christmas Market has moved to Meiji Jingu Gaien. At the heart of the market is a massive 14-meter Christmas Pyramid, a traditional German decoration. Visitors can enjoy festive treats, handcrafted gifts, and mulled wine while strolling under the famous ginkgo trees.
Information for the 2024 event has not yet been updated, but please note that advance tickets will be required for participation. Once the details are released, we will update this page.
Venue: In front of Meiji Jingu Gaien’s Seikyo Memorial Picture Gallery & General Ball Sports Ground
Website: https://tokyochristmas.net/
Yokohama Red Brick Warehouse Christmas Market:
This market boasts a 10-meter Christmas tree and charming stalls offering German food, drinks, and ornaments. The Red Brick Warehouse provides a picturesque backdrop, making it one of the most atmospheric markets in Japan.
- Event Dates: November 22, 2024 (Friday) – December 25, 2024 (Wednesday), for a total of 34 days.
- Note: The event will be held rain or shine, but may close in the case of severe weather.
- Operating Hours:
- November 22 (Friday): 5:00 PM – 9:00 PM (Last order at 8:30 PM)
- November 23 (Saturday) – December 6 (Friday): 11:00 AM – 9:00 PM (Last order at 8:30 PM)
- December 7 (Saturday) – December 25 (Wednesday): 11:00 AM – 10:00 PM (Last order at 9:30 PM)
- Admission Fees:
- Standard Admission Ticket: ¥500 (tax included)
- Priority Admission Ticket: ¥1,500 (tax included)
- Priority Admission Ticket (with Premium Mug): ¥4,500 (tax included)
- Ticket purchase details will be announced in late October.
- Location:Yokohama Red Brick Warehouse Event Square and Red Brick Park
- Website: https://www.yokohama-akarenga.jp/christmas/Ticket Prices:
Other Tokyo Markets:
Smaller markets, such as the Roppongi Hills Christmas Market and the Odaiba Seaside Park Christmas Market, offer a similar experience with European-inspired decorations, holiday food, and seasonal shopping.
4. Unique Japanese Christmas Traditions
Christmas in Japan has adopted several unique traditions that set it apart from celebrations in other countries.
KFC for Christmas Dinner
Perhaps the most famous of these traditions is the custom of eating KFC on Christmas Eve. Thanks to a highly successful marketing campaign in the 1970s, KFC has become synonymous with Christmas dinner in Japan. Special Christmas meals, including fried chicken, cake, and champagne, are pre-ordered well in advance. If you don’t reserve early, expect long lines on Christmas Eve!
Christmas Cake
The Japanese Christmas cake is a beautifully decorated strawberry shortcake, symbolizing celebration and happiness. It’s a beloved tradition for couples and families to share this sweet treat on Christmas Day. These cakes are widely available at bakeries and convenience stores across the country.
5. Holiday Shopping and Sales
Seasonal Sales in Japan
Christmas is also a prime time for shopping in Japan, with stores offering seasonal sales and holiday promotions. Popular department stores like Mitsukoshi and Takashimaya feature Christmas discounts on everything from fashion to electronics. Seasonal goods and holiday-themed merchandise are also available at reduced prices.
In the past, sales in Japan traditionally started on January 2nd, right after the New Year. Known as “Hatsuuri” (first sale), this period was similar to Boxing Day sales in other countries, offering the highest discounts of the year.
Nowadays, businesses have shifted to start their sales earlier, with many kicking off as early as December. This allows shoppers to enjoy great deals well before the New Year, extending the holiday shopping season.
Fukubukuro (Lucky Bags)
If you’re in Japan around New Year’s, don’t miss out on fukubukuro, or “lucky bags,” which are a New Year tradition. Many retailers, from Shibuya 109 to Bic Camera, offer these mystery bags filled with items at a fraction of their original price. They’re a fun and exciting way to kick off the New Year shopping season.
Fukubukuro (lucky bags) are offered by a wide range of stores, and most go on sale starting January 2nd. The most common type of fukubukuro is from clothing stores, where shoppers can buy a full outfit—often including a coat—sorted by size. These bags offer multiple fashion items at a significant discount compared to their regular prices, making them especially popular with young women.
In addition to clothing, electronics stores sell fukubukuro filled with popular gadgets and games. These bags are so sought after that long lines form early in the morning.
Even brands like Starbucks offer fukubukuro, which often include limited-edition items that aren’t available for sale elsewhere, making them highly desirable. If you’re in Japan during this time, don’t miss the chance to grab your favorite fukubukuro!
6. Christmas Events and Performances
Tokyo Disneyland and Universal Studios Japan
Both Tokyo Disneyland and Universal Studios Japan host special Christmas events, complete with exclusive parades, shows, and holiday-themed attractions. Disneyland is known for its magical winter displays and characters dressed in festive outfits, while Universal Studios features a grand Christmas tree and spectacular nighttime shows. Visitors can also enjoy limited-time merchandise and seasonal snacks, adding to the festive fun.
Tokyo Disney Resort will host “Disney Christmas 2024” from November 15 to December 25, 2024, at both Tokyo Disneyland and Tokyo DisneySea. This festive event includes the final performance of the popular “Disney Christmas Stories” parade at Disneyland, alongside new special events, beautifully decorated Christmas trees, and exclusive holiday-themed merchandise and menus. At Tokyo DisneySea, visitors can enjoy magical shows and illuminations, including a towering Christmas tree at the American Waterfront.
With unique photo opportunities, special appearances by Disney characters in holiday costumes, and a heartwarming Christmas atmosphere, this event is one of the most popular of the year. Due to high demand, it’s strongly recommended to purchase tickets well in advance.
Hotel and Restaurant Christmas Events
Luxury hotels across Japan, such as the Imperial Hotel and The Ritz-Carlton, offer special Christmas dinners and holiday events. These high-end dining experiences often include lavish multi-course meals, perfect for celebrating Christmas in style. Many restaurants also offer special Christmas-themed menus, making it easy to find a festive dining option.
7. How to Enjoy a Winter Wonderland in Japan
Winter Activities
Japan offers a range of winter activities that can be enjoyed during the Christmas season, especially in the country’s renowned ski resorts.
- Ski Resorts and Onsen Experiences: Resorts like Niseko and Hakuba are famous for their powder snow and offer excellent skiing and snowboarding conditions. After a day on the slopes, relax in one of Japan’s traditional hot springs (onsen) for a truly rejuvenating experience. Hakone and other onsen towns also provide a peaceful escape for those looking to unwind during the holidays.
- Snow Festivals: While most snow festivals take place after Christmas, Japan’s famous Sapporo Snow Festival in February is a must-see for winter travelers. It features impressive snow and ice sculptures, along with various winter activities like ice skating and snowshoeing.
8. Conclusion
Christmas in Japan is a unique experience that blends Western-style festive cheer with distinct local traditions. From the spectacular illuminations and bustling Christmas markets to the quirky tradition of eating KFC on Christmas Eve, Japan offers a memorable holiday atmosphere. The country’s winter activities, including skiing and relaxing in hot springs, add a seasonal charm to any holiday itinerary.
Whether you’re enjoying a romantic dinner under the lights or exploring a winter wonderland, Christmas in Japan is a magical and unforgettable time. Be sure to plan ahead to make the most of your holiday adventure!
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