Published: November 24, 2025
As winter descends upon Tokyo, the city undergoes a magical transformation. The crisp, cool air is electrified by millions of twinkling lights, turning everyday streets into breathtaking spectacles. From classic, elegant displays to massive, jaw-dropping light shows, Tokyo’s winter illuminations are a must-see experience for any visitor.
But with so many options, where do you even begin? To help you navigate this dazzling wonderland, we’ve curated a guide to the best and brightest illuminations for the 2025-2026 season. Whether you’re looking for a romantic date spot, a fun family outing, or the perfect Instagram shot, this guide has you covered. 1
🗼 Planning a trip to Tokyo?
🏨 Stay in Shinjuku, Shibuya, Asakusa, Ginza, and all major sightseeing areas 👇
Classic & Elegant: The Quintessential Tokyo Experience
These are the timeless displays that define Tokyo’s winter season, perfect for a romantic stroll.
1. Marunouchi Illumination 2025
https://maps.app.goo.gl/fPhobmGFQhBHggwu6
•Why You Should Go: Over a kilometer of the iconic Marunouchi Naka-dori street is bathed in a sophisticated champagne-gold glow. The 340+ trees lining the street are adorned with approximately 1.2 million LEDs, creating an elegant and upscale atmosphere. It’s the quintessential Tokyo winter scene.
•Best for: Romantic walks, sophisticated evenings, and pre/post-dinner strolls.
•Key Info:
•Period: Nov 13, 2025 – Feb 15, 2026
•Location: Marunouchi Naka-dori, around Tokyo Station
2. HIBIYA Magic Time Illumination 2025
https://maps.app.goo.gl/fWZASnVhnxezcnwu9
•Why You Should Go: The entire Hibiya area, including the chic Tokyo Midtown Hibiya, transforms into a magical world of light. It offers a slightly more modern and theatrical take on the classic city illumination, perfectly complementing the area’s reputation for entertainment and cinema.
•Best for: Movie lovers, couples, and those looking for a grand, cinematic atmosphere.
•Key Info:
•Period: Nov 13, 2025 – Feb 28, 2026
•Location: Tokyo Midtown Hibiya & Hibiya area
3. KITTE Christmas Illumination
https://maps.app.goo.gl/7Rdu7hfSTkN2pyQWA
•Why You Should Go: Inside the stunning KITTE shopping complex (right next to Tokyo Station), a massive 13-meter-tall Christmas tree takes center stage in the atrium. The atrium is transformed into a “White Silver Grass Prairie,” with 65,000 LEDs creating a magical, snow-covered world indoors.
•Best for: A quick dose of Christmas magic, families, and a great photo spot sheltered from the cold.
•Key Info:
•Period: Nov 20, 2025 – Dec 25, 2025
•Location: KITTE (next to Tokyo Station)
🗼 Planning a trip to Tokyo?
🏨 Stay in Shinjuku, Shibuya, Asakusa, Ginza, and all major sightseeing areas 👇
Immersive & Spectacular: Unforgettable Light Shows
For those who want a truly immersive and over-the-top experience, these large-scale events are a must-visit.
4. Yomiuriland Jewellumination
https://maps.app.goo.gl/3D7kwtPa9HZyHLzs8
•Why You Should Go: This is not just an illumination; it’s an entire amusement park transformed into a world of gemstone-colored lights. Produced by world-renowned lighting designer Motoko Ishii, the park features millions of LEDs creating dazzling, themed areas. You can enjoy the lights from thrilling rides, including a roller coaster that zips through a tunnel of light.
•Best for: Families, thrill-seekers, and anyone looking for a full evening of entertainment.
•Key Info:
•Period: Oct 23, 2025 – Apr 5, 2026
•Location: Yomiuriland (Inagi, Tokyo)
5. Tokyo Dome City Winter Illumination
https://maps.app.goo.gl/VGUsUvCyuqhtZBWk6
•Why You Should Go: With around 1 million LEDs, Tokyo Dome City offers a massive and varied display. This year features a 15-meter-tall Christmas tree and a new interactive snow globe experience. The theme often changes, but it always delivers a fun, festive atmosphere with plenty of photo opportunities.
•Best for: A fun and casual date night, groups of friends, and families.
•Key Info:
•Period: Nov 17, 2025 – Mar 1, 2026
•Location: Tokyo Dome City
6. Ao no Dokutsu SHIBUYA (Blue Grotto)
https://maps.app.goo.gl/45WyjfB7LPPnf6rs9
•Why You Should Go: The street leading from Shibuya Park Street to Yoyogi Park is transformed into a mesmerizing, otherworldly blue cavern. The reflection of the blue lights on the ground creates a stunningly immersive experience. It’s one of Tokyo’s most popular and most photographed illuminations for a reason.
•Best for: Instagrammers, trend-seekers, and a vibrant, youthful atmosphere.
•Key Info:
•Period: Dec 4, 2025 – Dec 25, 2025
•Location: Shibuya Park Street area
https://maps.app.goo.gl/KeYLH5frADh1VSXq5
🗼 Planning a trip to Tokyo?
🏨 Stay in Shinjuku, Shibuya, Asakusa, Ginza, and all major sightseeing areas 👇
Insider Tips for Enjoying Tokyo’s Illuminations
•Go on a Weeknight: If possible, avoid weekends. The most popular spots can get extremely crowded.
•Check the Time: Most illuminations start around sunset (4:30 PM – 5:00 PM) and run until 11:00 PM or midnight. Check the official website for exact times.
•Dress Warmly: It gets colder than you think when you’re standing around outside. Bring gloves, a hat, and a warm coat.
•Combine with Dinner: Many of these spots are located in major shopping and dining hubs. Plan to have dinner or a warm drink nearby to complete the experience.
This guide is part of my ongoing series introducing hidden gems in Japan — from local culture, traditional towns, and scenic nature spots. If you’re planning a trip to Japan, check my other guides on Japan travel tips, hidden temples, off-the-beaten-path destinations, and regional sightseeing.
🗼 Planning a trip to Tokyo?
🏨 Stay in Shinjuku, Shibuya, Asakusa, Ginza, and all major sightseeing areas 👇
Reference
[1] Let’s Enjoy Tokyo. “イルミネーション特集2025-2026 (Illumination Feature 2025-2026).” Let’s Enjoy Tokyo,
