Winter in Tokyo is a special season when the entire city is wrapped in light.
From November to December, areas such as Marunouchi, Omotesando, Roppongi, Ebisu, and Shibuya come alive with enchanting illuminations and authentic Christmas markets.
The champagne-gold streets, the aroma and music filling the festive markets, and the illuminated Tokyo Skytree painting the night sky—all create a warm and magical experience unique to each location.
This article is a complete guide to Tokyo’s illuminations and Christmas markets in the winter of 2025.
From famous attractions to hidden gems, we’ll introduce event dates, highlights, and access information in an easy-to-understand way.
Whether you’re spending the evening with someone special, enjoying it with friends, or treating yourself to a quiet winter walk—
discover the beauty and warmth of Tokyo’s winter lights this year.
Contents
The Charms of Wintertime Tokyo and How to Enjoy It
Why Tokyo Is a Beloved Winter Destination
A “Season of Light” Unlike Any Other
Winter in Tokyo brims with a dreamlike beauty born from crisp air and radiant light. Among Tokyo’s many faces throughout the year, winter is the season where “light” takes center stage. Illuminations in areas like Marunouchi and Omotesando, as well as Roppongi and Ebisu, blanket the city, turning a simple stroll into a heart-lifting experience. Another winter-only treat is how lights reflected in glass facades and city windows shine even more vividly in the cold air. During this time, Tokyo transforms into a grand theater, offering every visitor a personal “story of light.”
Romantic Nightscapes Where City and Nature Blend
Tokyo’s allure lies in the exquisite way natural beauty melts into a modern urban canvas. On winter nights, the moon glimpsed between Marunouchi and Shibuya’s skyscrapers, or the sea of lights viewed from Tokyo Skytree and Tokyo Tower, is breathtaking. In parks like Yoyogi and Hibiya, trees are illuminated so that the boundary between nature and city blurs. Lights shimmering on the water’s surface and sunset gradients mirrored on buildings reveal a poetic side of wintertime Tokyo. This harmony between the “man-made” and the “natural” creates a uniquely romantic ambience unlike any other city.
Convenience: Sightseeing and Events in One Go
One of winter Tokyo’s biggest strengths is how easily you can enjoy both sightseeing and seasonal events at once. Illuminations and Christmas markets pop up across the city, letting you efficiently combine them with shopping and dining. Major spots are linked by trains and subways, enabling you to cover multiple areas in a single day. Hotels and commercial facilities also host limited-time fairs, making the season popular with locals as well as visitors. In winter, Tokyo’s sightseeing, food, and events blend seamlessly—truly a city where simply walking becomes a special experience.
Tokyo’s Winter Climate and Clothing Guide
Average Temperature and Cold-Weather Tips
Tokyo’s winter, from December to February, is relatively mild compared to other regions of Japan, with average temperatures ranging from 5°C to 10°C. However, mornings and evenings can drop close to 0°C, and strong winds between high-rise buildings often make it feel even colder. The days are generally sunny and dry, characterized more by the “sharp chill” of the air than by extreme cold. When sightseeing, it’s best to wear a thick coat, scarf, and gloves, along with heat-retaining innerwear such as thermal layers. If you plan to enjoy nighttime illuminations, remember to protect your feet and ears as well, since you’ll likely spend long periods outdoors in the cold.
What to Wear for Nighttime Illuminations
At night, Tokyo feels significantly colder due to the wind and the contrast between bright lights and shadowed streets. For strolling through the city’s illuminations, choose warm yet comfortable clothing. A heavy long coat or padded down jacket paired with fleece-lined pants or thick tights is ideal. To keep your feet warm, opt for boots and thermal socks. Since you’ll likely be taking photos, try to balance style and warmth—fashionable outerwear with good insulation works best. For convenience, touch-sensitive gloves are highly recommended so you can easily use your smartphone while keeping your hands warm.
Useful Cold-Weather Accessories for Travel
To make your winter trip in Tokyo more comfortable, it’s helpful to carry compact and portable cold-weather accessories. A foldable blanket is perfect for train rides or outdoor events, and adhesive body warmers can be placed on your waist or stomach to keep your body warm for hours. Women may find thermal socks and leg warmers especially effective for keeping toes and calves from getting chilled. Additionally, the dry winter air can cause skin irritation, so bring a small hand cream and a mask to stay moisturized. By combining these items wisely, you can explore Tokyo’s winter charm comfortably and without stress.
Winter Season Event Overview
Illumination Season (November – February)
The most iconic winter event in Tokyo is undoubtedly its stunning illuminations. Starting in early November and continuing through mid-February, the city glows with dazzling lights across countless locations. Classic spots like Marunouchi and Omotesando are joined by themed displays in Shibuya and Roppongi, where creativity and artistry shine. In recent years, sustainable LED lighting and music-synchronized light shows have become the trend, making the experience more dynamic each season. During this time, the entire city radiates a festive warmth—you can enjoy the lights on your commute, while shopping, or during an evening stroll. The period between mid-December and Christmas is the busiest, but also when Tokyo shines at its absolute brightest.
Christmas Markets (Late November – Late December)
Inspired by the traditional European markets, Tokyo’s Christmas markets have become a beloved hallmark of the city’s winter charm. Venues such as Hibiya Park, Roppongi Hills, and Ebisu Garden Place offer an authentic holiday atmosphere, complete with hot mulled wine, stollen, and handcrafted wooden ornaments. The soft glow of outdoor lights combined with the aroma of seasonal treats creates a cozy, enchanting experience unique to winter. At night, the illuminations blend with the market lights to form a romantic setting that attracts couples, families, and international visitors alike. By mid-December, many markets reach their peak, filled with music, laughter, and festive spirit.
Year-End and New Year Events (Countdown & Hatsumode)
From late December through early January, Tokyo enters its most energetic and symbolic season of the year. The city hosts a variety of countdown celebrations, from fireworks over Odaiba to light shows at Tokyo Tower and the lively crowds at Shibuya’s Scramble Crossing. For those who prefer a more peaceful start to the year, visiting shrines such as Meiji Jingu or Senso-ji for Hatsumode (the first shrine visit of the year) offers a serene alternative. As dawn approaches, thousands of visitors line up to pray for health, happiness, and good fortune—a quintessential Tokyo tradition. During this period, public transport operates with extended or all-night schedules, ensuring smooth access for both locals and tourists. This unique mix of celebration and spirituality perfectly embodies the essence of winter in Tokyo.
Tokyo’s Most Popular Illumination Spots
Five Iconic Illumination Destinations
Marunouchi Illumination
Celebrating its 24th anniversary in 2025, the Marunouchi Illumination 2025 has become one of Tokyo’s most beloved winter traditions. From November 13, 2025 (Thu) to February 15, 2026 (Sun), the entire Marunouchi area—including Otemachi, Marunouchi, and Yurakucho—will be wrapped in the gentle glow of champagne-gold lights. Along the main avenue, Marunouchi Nakadori, over 1.2 kilometers of trees will be illuminated, harmonizing beautifully with the district’s refined architecture to create an elegant and heartwarming winter atmosphere.
From November 13 to December 25, the area will also host “Marunouchi Street Park 2025 Winter”, featuring a Christmas market and gourmet food trucks alongside the illuminations. The event’s concept of “staying and strolling” encourages visitors to pause, interact, and experience the city at a slower pace. In addition, from November 28 to December 25, nearby Gyoko-dori Avenue—which connects Tokyo Station and the Imperial Palace Outer Garden—will also light up, forming a breathtaking corridor of illumination that embodies the magic of winter nights in Tokyo.
All electricity used for the event is derived from renewable energy sources, reflecting a commitment to sustainability and environmental responsibility. By day, Marunouchi is a bustling business district lined with high-rise buildings; by night, it transforms into a sophisticated city of light. Whether you visit with family, friends, or a loved one, Marunouchi Illumination 2025 promises a heartwarming and unforgettable experience in the heart of Tokyo.
Official Website: Marunouchi Street Park 2025 Winter
Omotesando
One of Tokyo’s most iconic winter illuminations is the golden tunnel of light along Omotesando Avenue. Stretching about 1.1 kilometers, the zelkova-lined street glows with warm golden lights that envelop visitors in a serene and festive atmosphere. Surrounded by popular shopping landmarks such as Omotesando Hills and Laforet Harajuku, this area is perfect for combining holiday shopping or dining with an evening stroll. Simply walking along the pedestrian path feels like stepping through a road made of light. Many cafés and restaurants along the street also offer spectacular views of the illuminations, making it a romantic and photogenic experience. As one of the most photographed winter scenes in Tokyo, Omotesando’s illumination continues to be a timeless symbol of the city’s winter charm.
Ebisu Garden Place
The Ebisu Garden Place Illumination & Christmas Marche will once again light up Tokyo’s winter from November 8, 2025 (Sat) to December 25, 2025 (Thu). Around 100,000 champagne-gold lights will illuminate key areas such as the Clock Plaza, the Promenade leading to the chandelier, and the Chateau Plaza, creating a refined and enchanting winter landscape. The 10-meter-tall Christmas tree at the Clock Plaza serves as one of Tokyo’s most beloved photo spots, while the gentle slope leading to the chandelier transforms into a glowing pathway that invites visitors into a world of elegance and light.
During the same period, the venue also hosts a European-style Christmas Market, featuring charming wooden stalls and gourmet food trucks. Visitors can savor seasonal delights such as hot wine, hearty soups, and festive dishes, while browsing Christmas ornaments and unique gift items. The market is open from 17:00 to 20:00 on weekdays and 12:00 to 20:00 on weekends and holidays, making it a lively destination throughout the day and evening.
Even after the market ends, the illuminations will continue to shine until March 1, 2026 (Sun), allowing guests to enjoy the brilliant harmony of chandelier light and champagne-gold illumination all winter long. Whether visiting with a partner, family, or friends, Ebisu Garden Place offers a heartwarming and luxurious winter experience that captures the very essence of Tokyo’s holiday season.
Official Website: Ebisu Garden Place Illumination & Christmas Marche
Tokyo Midtown
Located in Akasaka, Minato-ku, Tokyo Midtown will host its annual winter event, “MIDTOWN CHRISTMAS 2025”, from November 13 (Thu) to December 25 (Thu), 2025.
This year’s theme, “Your Christmas Story”, invites visitors to create their own personal Christmas memories through light, music, and immersive design. The entire venue transforms into a radiant festival of light and sound, offering a sophisticated holiday experience in the heart of Tokyo.
The main attraction, located in the Midtown Garden, features an evolved version of last year’s popular “bubble and snow performance.”
Synchronized with an original soundtrack, countless lights shimmer like a field of stars, filling the garden with a sense of wonder.
The floating bubbles that catch and reflect the illumination resemble glistening snowflakes, creating the atmosphere of a true White Christmas amid the urban landscape.
Visitors can savor a moment of romance and serenity as snow and light intertwine beneath the Tokyo sky.
Other highlights include a real fir tree wrapped in golden light and the enchanting “Path of Light”, which softly illuminates the surrounding trees.
The harmony of natural beauty and elegant design creates a warm and unforgettable winter scene.
Inside the facility, the festive spirit continues with attractions such as the “Santa Tree”—decorated with approximately 1,600 miniature Santas—and a charming Christmas market offering seasonal gifts and crafts.
From families to couples, everyone can find joy in this dazzling winter celebration that captures the essence of Tokyo Midtown’s refined hospitality.
Shibuya Ao no Dokutsu (Blue Cave)
The “Blue Cave” is one of Tokyo’s most famous winter illumination events, inspired by the mystical Blue Grotto of Capri, Italy.
First held in Nakameguro in 2014, it has since become a defining symbol of Tokyo’s winter season.
Now located in Shibuya, the event stretches for approximately 800 meters, from Shibuya Koen-dori (500m) to the Zelkova-lined avenue of Yoyogi Park (300m).
The trees overhead glow in deep blue, and the reflections on the pavement create an immersive sensation—walking here feels like stepping into a tunnel of pure blue light.
In 2024, the event featured an astonishing 600,000 LED lights, transforming the Yoyogi Park Zelkova Avenue into an ethereal ocean of blue.
Amid the city’s hustle and bustle, this tranquil and mesmerizing illumination has become a beloved retreat for couples, families, and travelers alike.
In 2019, the number of visitors exceeded 3.2 million, and since moving to Shibuya, the cumulative attendance has surpassed 10 million—a testament to its overwhelming popularity and beauty.
Another major appeal of “Ao no Dokutsu SHIBUYA” is that it’s completely free of charge, as the illuminations are set along public streets.
You can enjoy the lights casually after work or while shopping, making it easy for anyone to experience this extraordinary winter spectacle.
During the event, the entire Shibuya district is bathed in a mysterious blue glow—an otherworldly scene that transforms the urban landscape into something magical.
Although details for the 2025 event have yet to be announced, many are already eagerly anticipating the return of this breathtaking “miracle of blue light” in the heart of Tokyo.
Illuminations You Can Experience as a Couple or Family
Yomiuriland Jewel Illumination
The Yomiuriland Jewel Illumination is a one-of-a-kind event produced by world-renowned lighting designer Motoko Ishii and her design studio.
What makes this illumination truly special is its use of the world’s first LED lights developed to reproduce the brilliance of gemstones.
Lights inspired by rubies, sapphires, and emeralds bathe the entire amusement park in a magical, jewel-like glow, creating an enchanting world of color and light.
For 2025, the event continues its grand theme “LIGHT is LOVE”, expressing the idea that light symbolizes love—embracing people, nature, and the Earth itself.
The sub-theme, “LIGHT HOP⤴”, represents a joyful leap forward, illuminating the park with vibrant, uplifting energy.
Together, these themes transform the entire venue into a radiant spectacle of warmth, hope, and beauty.
Visitors can enjoy breathtaking panoramic views of the illuminations from various attractions such as the Ferris wheel and roller coasters.
From the heights of the Ferris wheel, you can even see both Tokyo Tower and Tokyo Skytree at the same time—a rare view that makes this spot especially popular.
The harmony between the twinkling city skyline and the jewel-toned lights of the park creates a scene so stunning, it feels as though you’ve opened a treasure chest filled with light.
The Jewel Illumination at Yomiuriland is far more than a nighttime amusement park—it’s a place to feel light itself.
As an art form that celebrates love, beauty, and connection, this illumination delivers a heartwarming experience that resonates with visitors of all ages.
Families, couples, and friends alike can immerse themselves in this dazzling fusion of artistry and emotion—a winter night filled with radiance, joy, and the gentle power of light.
Tokyo Dome City Winter Illumination
For the winter of 2025, Tokyo Dome City celebrates its 21st annual Winter Illumination with the enchanting theme “SNOW DOME”.
Approximately one million LED lights will blanket the entire complex in shimmering white, transforming it into a dazzling, snow-globe-like wonderland.
The illuminations run from 17:00 to 24:00, making it one of the few Tokyo light displays that can be enjoyed until late at night (note that some areas may have different performance times).
At the heart of the event, in the Central Park Lawn Area, stands the spectacular “WONDER SNOW TREE”—a 15-meter-tall illuminated tree that serves as the symbolic photo spot for TOKYO SNOW DOME CITY.
Every 15 minutes between 17:00 and 21:45, a special light and bubble performance begins, synchronized with the surrounding large LED screens.
Visitors are enveloped by swirling lights and bubbles, creating the surreal sensation of stepping inside an actual snow globe.
The performance schedule runs every hour at 00, 15, 30, and 45 minutes, painting the winter sky with a dreamlike dance of light and motion.
Meanwhile, at the LaQua Garden (1F), guests can experience the interactive display “LUMINOUS SNOW DOME.”
When visitors ring a bell, a massive snow dome lights up, revealing a miniature diorama cityscape that transforms with the changing seasons.
This immersive experience is available during illumination hours (17:00–24:00), with interactive operation from 17:00 to 21:00.
It’s a magical feature that captivates both children and adults, offering a “see, touch, and feel” approach to winter lights.
On the LaQua 2F Thunder Dolphin passageway, the “SPARKLE TUNNEL” invites guests to walk through a glowing corridor of reflected white light,
as if being gently drawn into the heart of a snow globe. The reflections on the walls and floor create a shimmering snowy atmosphere that feels straight out of a winter dream.
The Tokyo Dome City Winter Illumination combines light, sound, and interaction to form a living “city of snow domes.”
Perfect for romantic dates, family outings, or a relaxing stop after work, this beloved Tokyo landmark delivers a heartwarming blend of creativity and wonder—an unmissable experience of winter magic in the city.
Official Website: Tokyo Dome City Winter Illumination
Aqua City Odaiba & DECKS Tokyo Beach
Set against the breathtaking backdrop of Tokyo Bay and the Rainbow Bridge, the “Odaiba Illumination YAKEI” once again lights up the waterfront as one of Tokyo’s most iconic winter views in 2025.
Centered around DECKS Tokyo Beach, the illumination features the magnificent Daiba Memorial Tree—a living tree about 20 meters tall and 10 meters wide—that glows brilliantly amidst the night sky.
From this spot, visitors can enjoy sweeping views of the illuminated Tokyo Tower, Rainbow Bridge, and the sparkling Tokyo Bay skyline, creating a truly romantic winter panorama found nowhere else in the city.
The highlight of the Odaiba Illumination “YAKEI” is the seamless fusion of the bay’s nightscape with the golden glow of the lights.
The soft champagne-gold illumination wraps the living trees and reflects beautifully on the water’s surface, producing a breathtakingly elegant scene that defines Tokyo’s winter magic.
It’s a moment of serenity and wonder that captivates everyone—from locals to international visitors—each year.
At the Seaside Terrace of DECKS Tokyo Beach, a photogenic area centered around the art spot “ODAIBA” invites guests to relax and enjoy the lights.
The open-air space offers a comfortable blend of gentle illumination and sea breeze, perfect for sitting on a bench and quietly admiring the glowing view.
Couples and tourists often take photos with the cityscape as their backdrop, making it one of the most shared illumination spots on social media every winter.
Although the illumination runs year-round, it becomes even more spectacular in the winter months, with enhanced lighting effects during the Christmas and Valentine’s seasons.
Visitors can shop, dine, and take a leisurely evening stroll while immersing themselves in the dazzling fusion of Tokyo Bay and light—a hallmark of the Odaiba Illumination “YAKEI” and a must-see for anyone exploring Tokyo’s winter nights.
Tokyo Skytree Town® Dream Christmas 2025
For the winter of 2025, Tokyo’s beloved landmark Tokyo Skytree Town® once again hosts its grand holiday event, “Dream Christmas 2025.”
Running from November 1 (Sat) to December 25 (Thu), over 530,000 LED lights illuminate the entire Skytree Town, casting a dazzling glow across the winter night sky.
The result is a breathtaking scene where it feels as if the magic of Christmas extends all the way to the heavens.
Renewed for the First Time Since Opening: Special Christmas Lighting
This year marks the first-ever redesign of Tokyo Skytree’s special Christmas lighting since its opening.
Three lighting patterns—“Ornament Tree,” “Elegant Tree,” and “Santa Claus”—alternate throughout the evening, offering a different visual experience each time you visit.
The world’s tallest “Christmas Tree of Light” paints the night sky with brilliance, enchanting families, couples, and international travelers alike.
Projection Mapping on the Sky Arena Walls
On the 4th-floor Sky Arena, a brand-new projection mapping show titled “The Magical Clock of Light and Time” debuts in 2025.
Over the course of an hour, the clock transforms every 15 minutes, culminating in a spectacular finale of light and animation.
This mesmerizing “show of time and light,” unfolding beneath the Skytree, captures the essence of Tokyo’s modern winter charm.
Citywide Festivities: Illuminations and Christmas Market
Starting November 6 (Thu), illuminations sparkle throughout the entire Skytree Town.
At the Sky Arena, a grand Christmas tree and a Pegasus Carriage—produced in collaboration with JRA Nakayama Racecourse—take center stage.
In the Solamachi Plaza, Skytree’s mascots Sorakara-chan and friends appear as 4-meter-tall glowing statues titled “twinkle three stars,” perfect for memorable photos.
The concurrent event, “A Christmas Market from a Storybook in Tokyo Skytree Town® 2025,” transforms the area into a cozy European-style village.
Imported hüttes (wooden stalls) and ornaments from Germany line the plaza, offering mulled wine, Stollen cake, handmade crafts, and festive décor.
A massive Stollen—the largest in Japan—adds to the festive mood, making this a full sensory experience of Christmas in Tokyo.
Christmas in the Sky: A Celebration Above the City
At the 450-meter-high observation deck, guests can enjoy decorations under the theme “A Sky-High Christmas Party.”
Glistening photo spots create a dreamlike atmosphere, and this year introduces special greetings with Sorakara-chan in her brand-new holiday costume.
From the panoramic night views to interactive festivities, the experience invites visitors of all ages to share in the joy of a “celebration in the sky.”
The Tokyo Skytree Town® Dream Christmas 2025 connects the city, the sky, and people through light—a spectacular festival of illumination, projection, and emotion.
With renewed lighting designs and large-scale productions, this iconic winter event etches a “special story of light” into the hearts of everyone who visits.
Tokyo Christmas Market in Meiji Jingu Gaien
Established as a beloved winter tradition in Tokyo, the Tokyo Christmas Market in Meiji Jingu Gaien brings the authentic spirit of the Dresden Christmas Market from Germany to Japan.
First held in 2015 at Hibiya Park, this festive event now attracts over 200,000 visitors each year and has become one of the capital’s most anticipated holiday celebrations, running annually from late November to December 25.
In 2025, celebrating its 10th anniversary, the market will expand to its largest scale ever, featuring 61 booths in total.
Food stalls offer heartwarming dishes such as glühwein (hot wine), German sausages, Stollen, and beef stew, allowing visitors to experience the comforting flavors of a traditional European Christmas.
Visitors can also browse handcrafted ornaments, festive decorations, and participate in creative workshops—making the entire venue feel like a charming European village in the heart of Tokyo.
As night falls, the event’s signature Christmas Pyramid—a towering wooden structure adorned with intricate decorations—illuminates the sky.
Its enchanting blend of Grimm fairy-tale motifs and contemporary art creates a breathtaking spectacle of light and color.
Each year’s lighting ceremony features live performances by renowned artists; in 2024, singer Aina the End captivated the crowd with a live rendition of the market’s theme song, “Christmas Card.”
Held amidst the lush greenery of Meiji Jingu Gaien, this Christmas market offers visitors the rare opportunity to experience a genuine European Christmas atmosphere right in the center of Tokyo.
With warm lights, festive music, and the scent of mulled wine in the air, the market invites guests to stroll hand in hand through a storybook world.
Whether for a romantic evening with a loved one or a joyful family outing, the Tokyo Christmas Market in Meiji Jingu Gaien is a must-visit destination for anyone seeking the magic of winter in Tokyo.
Roppongi Hills Christmas Market 2025
Celebrating its 19th anniversary in 2025, the Roppongi Hills Christmas Market remains one of Japan’s most authentic and long-standing European-style holiday events, loved by countless visitors each year.
The market runs from November 22 (Sat) to December 25 (Thu) at the O-Yane Plaza in the heart of Roppongi Hills, open daily from 11:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m.
Guests can enjoy the festive ambiance by day and the romantic glow of illuminations by night.
Inspired by the world-famous Stuttgart Christmas Market in Germany—the largest of its kind—the Roppongi Hills market faithfully recreates the atmosphere of a traditional European town in winter.
Wooden huts line the plaza, filling the air with the warmth of pine and the scent of freshly baked treats.
Around ten vendors offer authentic German goods and cuisine, including the beloved shop Käthe Wohlfahrt, known worldwide for its exquisite handcrafted ornaments and year-round Christmas items.
Food stalls invite visitors to savor glühwein (hot spiced wine) infused with cinnamon and clove, freshly grilled sausages, hearty stews, and other German specialties.
With a cup of mulled wine in hand and festive melodies in the air, strolling past the twinkling ornaments and handmade wreaths feels just like wandering through a winter festival in Europe.
When night falls, the plaza transforms into a glowing wonderland, illuminated by countless lights and filled with the laughter of people enjoying warm drinks and conversation.
Even after nearly two decades, the Roppongi Hills Christmas Market 2025 continues to evolve while preserving its classic charm—offering a rare chance to experience authentic German Christmas traditions right in Tokyo.
It’s the perfect destination to share a heart-warming winter moment where European heritage meets Tokyo’s sophisticated style.
Azabudai Hills Christmas Market 2025
In 2025, Tokyo’s newest landmark, Azabudai Hills, will once again host its elegant holiday celebration, the Azabudai Hills Christmas Market 2025.
Set in the Central Plaza from November 22 (Sat) to December 25 (Thu), the event runs daily from 11:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m.
Throughout the season, the Azabudai Hills Arena and surrounding lawn area will be enveloped in a champagne-gold glow, creating a refined winter wonderland in the heart of Tokyo.
Passing through an arch-shaped gate, visitors enter a market reminiscent of a cozy European town square.
A total of 17 stalls—5 for goods and 12 for food and drinks—line the plaza, featuring charming wooden huts that evoke the warmth and craftsmanship of traditional German Christmas markets.
Savor authentic winter delicacies such as glühwein (hot spiced wine), grilled sausages, and cheese dishes, while browsing artisanal crafts and ornaments perfect for holiday gifts.
At the heart of the market stands a magnificent fir tree adorned with gentle, champagne-gold lighting.
During the day, the market exudes a bright, open-air charm, while at night, the lights transform it into a romantic, dreamlike landscape.
Rather than dazzling excess, the design emphasizes subtle warmth and sophistication—a hallmark of Azabudai Hills’ modern yet serene aesthetic.
As a new style of urban Christmas market blending city, nature, and people,
the Azabudai Hills Christmas Market 2025 adds a touch of quiet elegance to Tokyo’s winter season.
It’s the perfect setting to share a peaceful, heartwarming moment under the soft glow of winter lights with someone special.
Yebisu Garden Place Christmas 2025
In winter 2025, Yebisu Garden Place transforms into a radiant world of light, music, and warmth.
Bathed in champagne-gold illuminations, the plaza and surrounding areas create a refined yet heartwarming atmosphere.
Throughout the season, visitors can experience authentic European charm through the Christmas Marche held at the Clock Plaza and Chateau Plaza, where wooden huts and festive aromas fill the air with holiday spirit.
Christmas Marche: Clock Plaza
At the Clock Plaza, a cozy European-style market recreates the atmosphere of traditional Christmas markets across the continent.
Wooden stalls line the square, offering hearty winter dishes, mulled wine, and a variety of artisanal gifts and decorations.
Food trucks serve seasonal delights like hot wine, soup, and cheese dishes, while stalls feature ornaments, candles, and crafts perfect for gifts.
The market runs from November 8 (Sat) to December 25 (Thu), 2025, open 17:00–20:00 on weekdays and 12:00–20:00 on weekends and holidays at the Clock Plaza.
Christmas Marche: Chateau Plaza
Beginning November 28 (Fri), the Chateau Plaza comes alive with its own Christmas market.
At the center stands a grand Christmas tree surrounded by stalls selling sweets, gifts, and festive treats.
By day, the square buzzes with families and laughter, while at night, the illuminations cast a romantic glow over the space, creating a fairytale-like scene.
The market runs through December 25 (Thu), 2025, with the same operating hours as Clock Plaza: 17:00–20:00 on weekdays and 12:00–20:00 on weekends and holidays.
GOOD MUSIC TERRACE by BLUE NOTE PLACE
Adding a musical flourish to the festivities, GOOD MUSIC TERRACE by BLUE NOTE PLACE offers a luxurious blend of live DJ performances and gourmet treats.
Popular DJs fill the plaza with relaxing tunes, while the BNP STAND serves up New Orleans-style beignets and specialty coffee from Kyoto Kitaoji Roastery.
The event takes place over four weekends — December 5–7, 12–14, 19–21, and 23–25, 2025 — from 17:30–20:00 on weekdays and 15:00–20:00 on weekends.
It’s the perfect spot to unwind with music, the aroma of freshly brewed coffee, and the sparkle of city lights.
The Yebisu Garden Place Christmas 2025 offers a full sensory experience — “See, Hear, and Taste.”
Between the gentle lights, soulful sounds, and warm flavors of the market, every winter night spent here becomes a lasting memory.
Official Website
Futakotamagawa Rise Christmas Market 2025
In 2025, Futakotamagawa Rise will celebrate a warm and magical Christmas through a special collaboration with the beloved Nordic characters, the Moomins.
Under the theme “HEARTLIGHT HOLIDAY With MOOMIN”, decorations inspired by the residents of Moominvalley will appear throughout the town, transforming the area into a gentle, storybook-like world of light and imagination.
“HEARTLIGHT TREE” — The Moomins’ Special Christmas Tree
At the Galleria, the main venue, a magnificent 9-meter-tall Christmas tree adorned with about 10,000 LED lights will shine brightly.
The tree’s concept—based on the idea that “the Moomins don’t know about Christmas”—features each character decorating the tree with their cherished belongings.
You’ll find about 30 unique ornaments, including Moominpappa’s red silk rose for Moominmamma, Snufkin’s hat, and Little My’s cake, making it feel like stepping into a heartwarming scene from the Moomin stories.
Period: November 8 (Sat) – December 25 (Thu), 2025
Location: Futakotamagawa Rise Galleria
“Hattifattener Spots” — A Gentle Stroll Among Glowing Lights
From November 8, 2025 to March 1, 2026, the city will glow with the Winter Illumination, featuring around 64,000 LEDs and 90 glowing light spheres.
Across the Ribbon Street, Oak Mall, Birds Mall, and other areas, visitors can discover 53 illuminated “Hattifattener Spots”—whimsical installations where the luminous creatures seem to have gathered, drawn by the lights.
Their soft glow creates a Nordic-inspired sense of warmth, while the shimmering blue and white hues make for perfect photo opportunities.
Illumination Period: November 8, 2025 – March 1, 2026
Location: Entire Futakotamagawa Rise area (Ribbon Street / Oak Mall / Birds Mall / Grand Stairs, etc.)
“Futakotamagawa Rise Skate Garden” — Outdoor Skating with the Moomins
From December 6, 2025 to March 1, 2026, the Futakotamagawa Rise Central Plaza will host the annual outdoor skating rink “Skate Garden”.
The rink’s fences and gates will feature adorable Moomin characters, making skaters feel as though they’re gliding together with them.
At night, the surrounding illuminations reflect off the ice, creating a dreamy, romantic winter atmosphere—perfect for families, couples, and friends alike.
Period: December 6, 2025 – March 1, 2026
Location: Futakotamagawa Rise Central Plaza
The Futakotamagawa Rise Christmas 2025 celebration blends light, character, and Nordic warmth into one heart-soothing experience.
More than just a festive display, it offers a “Christmas that warms the heart”—a tranquil, nature-infused escape within the city, making Setagaya’s winter truly special.
Yokohama Red Brick Warehouse Christmas Market 2025 (Most Popular in the Tokyo Bay Area)
The Yokohama Red Brick Warehouse Christmas Market 2025, a beloved winter tradition along the breezy Yokohama waterfront,
will take place from November 21 (Fri) to December 25 (Thu), 2025.
Now in its 16th year, the market embraces the concept of “Time”—celebrating the blend of the Red Brick Warehouse’s
110-year history with the moments of joy shared by visitors—creating a heartwarming world illuminated by gentle lights.
Authentic German Ambience Recreated
The entire venue faithfully reproduces the atmosphere of traditional Christmas markets originating in Dresden, Germany.
The iconic “hütte” (wooden huts) and festive decorations are imported directly from Germany,
immersing guests in a truly European winter scene.
Enjoy steaming mugs of glühwein (hot wine), hearty sausages, stews, and stollen,
while the air fills with the aroma of sweets and the sound of holiday music.
It’s a place where everyone—families, couples, and friends—can share moments of warmth beneath the winter sky.
Illuminations and the Enchanting Night View
As night falls, the Minato Mirai skyline glows alongside a stunning 12-meter-tall Christmas tree,
the largest in the market’s history, shining in golden brilliance.
Every hour, special light-and-sound performances bring the tree to life,
creating magical moments that captivate onlookers.
Stretching beyond the tree, a 30-meter-long “Illumination Roof” forms a sparkling tunnel of light—
a popular photo spot where guests can walk beneath a canopy of stars.
The blend of cool sea air and warm illumination creates a uniquely romantic Yokohama atmosphere.
The contrast between the red-brick architecture and shimmering lights tells a quiet story of time and continuity.
The warmth of the century-old buildings, paired with modern light art, bridges past and present,
inviting visitors to celebrate the “now” in a space steeped in history.
A Christmas spent among Yokohama’s sea breeze, lights, and the feeling of “time” itself
will surely become one of the most unforgettable memories of the winter season.
ARK Hills Christmas 2025
In Minato Ward, Tokyo, ARK Hills—operated by Mori Building Co., Ltd.—will host its annual “ARK Hills Christmas 2025” event from November 11 (Tue) to December 25 (Thu), 2025.
This year’s theme is “Music”.
Throughout the season, musical motifs such as notes and instruments will adorn the streets, inviting visitors to enjoy a sophisticated and heartwarming holiday experience.
Authentic Christmas Tree at Karajan Plaza
At the heart of the event, Karajan Plaza will feature a warm and eco-conscious Christmas tree decorated with ornaments made from sustainable thinned wood.
Designed around the theme of music, the tree will be adorned with trumpet- and violin-shaped ornaments, along with shimmering musical notes, creating a refined, melodic atmosphere.
Soft lighting completes the scene, offering a tranquil and elegant glow to Tokyo’s winter nights.
Special Christmas Edition of Hills Marche
The popular weekly Hills Marche—held every Saturday—will take on a festive twist during the Christmas season.
Visitors can join hands-on workshops such as making holiday wreaths or crafting Santa’s candy boots, perfect for both children and adults.
Seasonal produce, Christmas sweets, and handmade goods will fill the market stalls, making it an ideal destination for gift hunting or preparing for a cozy celebration at home.
“Akasaka Antique Market” in Holiday Style
The monthly Akasaka Antique Market, normally held on the fourth Sunday, will take place on the second Sunday in December for a special Christmas edition.
Stalls will feature antiques and art pieces aligned with the “Music” theme, reminiscent of French street markets.
It’s the perfect place to discover a thoughtful gift for someone special—or a unique reward for yourself.
Limited Holiday Dining at ARK Hills Restaurants
Restaurants and cafés within the ARK Mori Building and South Tower will offer exclusive Christmas menus.
From elegant champagne dinners to seasonal dessert plates, each venue will curate dishes that make for a memorable and intimate holiday experience.
The entire ARK Hills district transforms into a stage, harmonizing light, sound, and flavor in a celebration of the season.
ARK Hills Christmas 2025 is a mature, refined event that balances festivity with calm sophistication.
Surrounded by music, light, and fine dining, visitors can enjoy a peaceful and memorable Christmas in one of Tokyo’s most elegant urban settings.
Tokyo in Winter: Wrapped in Light and Warmth
Winter in Tokyo is far more than just a cold season.
It’s a time when the city fills with light and people share moments of warmth—a season when hearts begin to glow.
From the elegant champagne-gold street trees of Marunouchi, to the soft illumination along Omotesando’s boulevard, and the grand displays at Tokyo Skytree and Midtown—every scene captures the city’s quiet brilliance.
What ties all these places together is a shared spirit:
“cherishing the time spent with someone special.”
Beyond the lights, Tokyo’s winter offers countless opportunities to connect with others—through Christmas markets, live music, and special menus at cafés and restaurants.
Sipping hot wine while admiring illuminations, or laughing with friends under a sparkling tree—each moment becomes a cherished winter memory.
The season isn’t just about seeing beauty, but feeling it through shared experiences.
Every district reveals its own Tokyo identity, where tradition meets modernity, and nature blends seamlessly with the cityscape.
Step away from the rush of daily life and wander through the illuminated streets—
even in the crisp, cool air, you’ll find a gentle warmth that stays with you long after the lights fade.
