Where to Experience Tokyo’s Brightest Winter Lights: The Top 12 Spots
Winter in Tokyo is magical, and one of the best parts of the season is the incredible light displays all over the city. When the days get shorter, Tokyo gets brighter, with neighborhoods and landmarks lighting up in stunning, creative ways that make the city feel like a sparkling wonderland. From classic holiday scenes to futuristic designs, each spot has its own unique style that captures the spirit of the season.
In this guide, we’ll take you through the top 12 places to catch Tokyo’s most breathtaking winter lights this year. So grab a warm drink, bundle up, and get ready to experience the magic of Tokyo’s winter glow!
12 Illumination Spots to Visit in Tokyo this Winter
1. Tokyo Skytree Town Dream Christmas 2024
Experience Tokyo from its highest vantage point!
Tokyo Skytree Town’s Dream Christmas features an array of lights around the Skytree and Solamachi shopping areas. The Skytree itself is illuminated in festive colors, and a grand Christmas tree at its base adds to the holiday feel.
Visitors can enjoy panoramic views of Tokyo’s winter lights from Skytree’s observation decks, where the city’s holiday landscape unfolds below. Solamachi Mall offers holiday-themed shops, making this area ideal for shopping and sightseeing. The combination of ground-level illuminations and city views makes Dream Christmas a well-rounded Tokyo winter experience.
Location: Tokyo Skytree Town 4F Sky Arena
Nearest Station: Oshiage Station (Tokyo Metro Hanzomon Line)
Dates: November 14 - December 25, 2024
Illuminations Hours: 16:00 - 24:00
Christmas Market: 11:00 - 22:00 (L.O. 21:00)
2. Yomiuri land Jewellumination
The largest illumination in Tokyo, Yomiuri Land’s Jewellumination is designed by the internationally acclaimed lighting artist Motoko Ishii. Each section of the park is lit with jewel-inspired colors, including ruby, sapphire, and emerald, creating a dreamlike landscape with over six million LED lights.
The Ferris wheel offers panoramic views of the illuminated park, and other rides provide an adrenaline-filled holiday experience. This expansive light show, with its kaleidoscopic designs, is perfect for anyone seeking an immersive and magical winter wonderland.
Location: Yomiuriland, Inagi City, Tokyo
Nearest Station: Keio Yomiuriland Station (Keio Line)
Dates: October 24, 2024 to April 6, 2025
Hours: 16:00 - 20:30
3. Roppongi Hills Christmas 2024
The Roppongi Hills Christmas illumination along Keyakizaka Street is one of Tokyo’s most beloved holiday displays, with around 700,000 blue and white LED lights creating the effect of a sparkling winter river.
The street is lined with zelkova trees, which frame the iconic Tokyo Tower in the background, offering a breathtaking cityscape that’s ideal for photos. First introduced in the early 2000s, the Roppongi Hills illumination has become a modern classic.
The area also hosts a traditional German Christmas market, complete with mulled wine, sausages, and festive ornaments, making it a well-rounded holiday experience.
Location: Roppongi Hills, Minato City, Tokyo
Nearest Station: Roppongi Station (Tokyo Metro Hibiya Line)
Dates: Early November 2024 to late December 2024
Highlights: Tokyo Tower views, blue-and-white LED lights
Unlock the wonders of Tokyo with the Sky Hop Bus Day Pass!
4. The Row of Zelkova Trees at Omotesando
Known as Tokyo’s “Champs-Élysées,” Omotesando Avenue becomes a glowing wonderland when its iconic zelkova trees are dressed in champagne-gold lights each winter. The illumination stretches from Omotesando Station to Meiji Jingu-mae Station, creating a scenic walkway that’s perfect for a romantic or leisurely evening stroll.
Omotesando has long been a center for high fashion and art, adding a sophisticated touch to the holiday spirit. This light display is particularly popular for its understated elegance and is a favorite destination for locals and visitors alike.
Location: Omotesando, Shibuya City, Tokyo
Nearest Station: Omotesando Station (Tokyo Metro Ginza Line)
Dates: December 2024 to early January 2025
Highlights: Champagne-colored lights, upscale shops, near Meiji Jingu Shrine
5. Marunouchi Illumination 2024
The Marunouchi Illumination is renowned for its amber-hued lights that stretch across 1.2 kilometers along Naka-dori Avenue. Known for its eco-friendly LED lights, this illumination transforms Tokyo’s business district into a cozy, welcoming environment each winter.
Marunouchi is an upscale area famous for its luxurious department stores and business offices, so the lights here reflect a sophisticated holiday vibe. The nearby Marunouchi Building and other high-end complexes often showcase their own holiday decorations, adding to the district’s festive charm.
Location: Marunouchi, Chiyoda City, Tokyo
Nearest Station: Tokyo Station (JR Lines)
Dates: November 14, 2024 to February 16, 2025
Hours: 16:00 to 23:00
Discover Tokyo's splendor in a one-hour open-air bus tour.
6. Tokyo Dome City SHOW Illumination
Tokyo Dome City SHOW Illumination offers an interactive and musical light experience perfect for families and visitors of all ages. Set in an entertainment complex, the illumination features light tunnels, animated trees, and a show synchronized with music, creating an energetic atmosphere.
The skating rink and nearby amusement park rides add extra excitement, making it a fun spot for a holiday outing. Built in 1988, Tokyo Dome was Japan’s first air-supported dome, giving it historical significance in Tokyo’s entertainment history.
Location: Tokyo Dome City, Bunkyo City, Tokyo
Nearest Station: Suidobashi Station (JR Chuo Line)
Dates: November 21 to February 29
Highlights: Amusement park setting, themed illuminations
7. HIBIYA Magic Time Illumination
Discover Tokyo like never before on our Tokyo Night Helicopter Tour.
HIBIYA Magic Time Illumination transforms the elegant streets of Hibiya with warm-colored lights that bring a fairy-tale charm to the area. The main “Tree of Light” serves as the centerpiece, surrounded by European-inspired architecture that gives the scene an Old-World feel.
This spot is known for its intimate atmosphere, with cafes and restaurants nearby offering cozy spots to relax with a warm drink. Hibiya’s illumination makes a perfect stop for a relaxed evening and is a favorite among couples looking for a romantic winter setting.
Location: Hibiya Park, Chiyoda City, Tokyo
Nearest Station: Hibiya Station (Tokyo Metro Hibiya Line)
Dates: November 14, 2024 to February 28, 2025
Hours: 16:00 - 23:00
8. Tokyo Mega Illumination 2024 - 2025
Held at Oi Racecourse, Tokyo Mega Illumination stands out for its large-scale displays featuring both traditional Edo-period themes and futuristic light art. The “Edo Zone” recreates historical scenes with traditional Japanese designs, while the “Tokyo Zone” uses modern installations to reflect Tokyo’s dynamic urban culture.
Highlights include the Rainbow Fountain show, which synchronizes lights and water jets. The racecourse’s horse-shaped sculptures add a unique twist, making this illumination an engaging blend of culture and modern technology.
Location: Oi Racecourse, Shinagawa City, Tokyo
Nearest Station: Oi Keibajo Mae Station (Tokyo Monorail)
Dates: November 2, 2024 to January 12, 2025
9. Tokyo Midtown - Yaesu
The Yaesu area near Tokyo Station has a rich history of craftsmanship dating back to the Edo period. Today, it continues to be a vibrant gateway, symbolizing the spirit of creativity and ambition. This year’s MIDTOWN CHRISTMAS at Tokyo Midtown Yaesu celebrates the Japanese art of Kintsugi with an interactive “Kintsugi Tsugiki” tree on the first floor, illuminating the space with a warm, golden glow.
Guests can also explore Kintsugi artwork displays and join workshops, with proceeds supporting reconstruction efforts in Ishikawa Prefecture. Adding to the magic, GALLERIA Winter Lights will brighten the first-floor atrium, while the 5th-floor YAESU TERRACE will feature champagne gold-lit trees overlooking Tokyo Station.
MIDTOWN YAESU CHRISTMAS 2024
Dates: November 14 – December 25, 2024 (some displays until February 16, 2025)
Hours: 4:00 PM – Midnight
Location: Tokyo Midtown Yaesu, 1F Galleria (outdoor plaza)
GALLERIA Winter Lights
Dates: November 14, 2024 – February 16, 2025
Location: 1F Galleria and surroundings
Illumination TERRACE
Dates: November 14, 2024 – February 16, 2025
Location: 5F YAESU TERRACE
Set out on a captivating exploration of Tokyo's nightlife with the Tokyo Premium Night Drive.
10. Yebisu Garden Place Winter Illuminations
Yebisu Garden Place’s winter illumination is a refined experience centered around its famous Baccarat crystal chandelier. This grand chandelier, one of the largest of its kind, is illuminated with over 8,000 crystals and adds a touch of luxury to the area.
The surrounding European-style plaza is decorated with holiday lights and stalls that sell mulled wine, pastries, and handmade goods, creating a cozy and inviting atmosphere. Yebisu Garden Place’s illumination is an ideal spot for those looking for an elegant, European-inspired holiday setting in Tokyo.
Location: Yebisu Garden Place, Shibuya City, Tokyo
Nearest Station: Ebisu Station (JR Yamanote Line)
Dates: Early November 2024 to early January 2025
Highlights: Elegant chandelier display, European-inspired setting
11. Tokyo Midtown - MIDTOWN WINTER LIGHTS
Tokyo Midtown is a top winter destination for both tourists and locals, famous for its enchanting Christmas lights and holiday installations. In 2024, the illumination theme is “Ensemblewrap,” where layers of lights, music, and nature create a magical winter wonderland throughout the area.
The light displays are both indoors and outdoors, allowing guests to experience the holiday spirit at any time of day. For an extra seasonal treat, Tokyo Midtown’s popular ice skating rink will also be open during this period.
One of the highlights is the series of 36 golden trees that sparkle in the daytime and come alive with lights, fog effects, and gentle sounds at night. The 4-meter-tall illuminated trees and 80-meter light promenade provide an immersive experience, making it an ideal spot for a scenic evening stroll.
Ensemblewrap Lights
Dates:: November 14 – December 25, 2024
Illumination Hours: 5:04 PM – 11:00 PM
Location: Midtown Garden
Light Promenade
Dates:: November 14, 2024 – February 24, 2025
Illumination Hours: 5:00 PM – 11:00 PM
Location: Midtown Garden, Plaza 1F
Santa Tree
Dates:: November 14 – December 25, 2024
Hours: 11:00 AM – 11:00 PM
Location: Galleria B1
Explore the dynamic blend of tradition and modernity in Tokyo.
12. Odaiba Illumination YAKEI Christmas
Odaiba is one of Tokyo’s most scenic spots for illumination, with displays lighting up the area all year round. Known for landmarks like the Rainbow Bridge and a replica of the Statue of Liberty, Odaiba’s evening lights create a beautiful nightscape featuring views of Tokyo Tower against the city skyline.
This lively area offers plenty to do, from amusement centers and shopping malls to a variety of restaurants, making it a great destination for a night out in Tokyo.
During December, Decks Tokyo Beach takes the festive spirit up a notch with a special Christmas-themed illumination. The highlight is the 20-meter-tall Odaiba Memorial Tree, decorated with sparkling Christmas lights and surrounded by charming art installations, perfect for holiday photos. The event complements the 100,000 illuminated trees throughout the area, adding an extra festive glow to Odaiba’s waterfront.
Odaiba Illumination YAKEI
Duration: Year-round
Hours: 5:00 PM to Midnight
Venue: Decks Tokyo Beach, 3rd Floor, Seaside Deck
Winter Illumination at Decks Tokyo Beach
Dates: November 13, 2024, to February 16, 2025
Hours: 5:00 PM to Midnight
Venue: Decks Tokyo Beach, 3rd Floor, Seaside Terrace
Experience Tokyo’s Winter Glow Before It Fades
Tokyo’s winter illuminations offer a unique way to experience the city, each spot bringing something special to the season. From the glittering streets of Marunouchi to the lively displays at Tokyo Dome City and the luxurious lights of Yebisu Garden Place, these illuminations showcase the city’s creativity and love for the holidays.
Whether you’re exploring with friends, family, or solo, each of these spots adds a memorable glow to Tokyo’s winter nights. Don’t miss the chance to enjoy these beautiful displays and see Tokyo in a whole new light this winter!
FAQs
When do Tokyo’s winter illuminations usually start and end?
Tokyo’s winter illuminations typically begin in mid-November and continue through early January, although some displays extend into February. Dates can vary by location, so it’s best to check specific illumination schedules in advance.
What time do Tokyo illuminations turn on in the evening?
Tokyo’s illuminations typically turn on around 4:30 PM to 5:00 PM, depending on sunset times, and stay lit until 10:00 PM or later, especially in popular spots like Tokyo Midtown and Omotesando.
Where can I take the best photos of Tokyo’s winter illuminations?
For stunning photos, Roppongi Hills offers views of Tokyo Tower with its lights, and the Ferris wheel at Yomiuriland provides panoramic shots of the entire Jewellumination area. Omotesando’s illuminated tree-lined street also makes for beautiful photos.
