My Favorites

My Tokyo Guide

See something interesting? Click on the heart button in the article to add a page from this site to My Favorites.

Main content starts here.

Updated: December 5, 2023

Brave the cold and bundle up to enjoy some of the best evening views of the year

Despite the chilly weather, December nights in Tokyo are full of spectacular city views complemented by elaborate Christmas lights and illuminations. Spend an evening strolling down the beautifully lit streets of Ginza and Omotesando, or head to Marunouchi and Shinjuku to see spectacular illuminations utilizing vast numbers of LEDs, projection mapping, and more.

Tips

  • Chilly nights require a warm jacket and scarf. Be sure to have an extra layer on hand
  • Popular shopping districts like Ginza, Nakameguro, and Ebisu make for the perfect Christmas date spot, with stunning lights and delicious dining options
  • Many of Tokyo's illuminations run through until February, so you can still enjoy them after Christmas

Tokyo Midtown Illumination

Tokyo Midtown is a short walk from Roppongi Station. This year’s installation conveys an image of golden trees, and an installation expressing a beautiful glittering scene with a piano playing in the background and illuminations will appear down the “Promenade of Lights.” A sustainable Christmas tree using pruned branches that would otherwise have been discarded is also featured. Furthermore, you can enjoy skating at the popular rink all winter. Tokyo Midtown’s illuminations are one of the most popular winter illumination spots in Tokyo.
MIDTOWN CHRISTMAS 2023

Past illumination display

TOKYO SKYTREE TOWN Dream Christmas 2023

“Sky Arena,” as the focal point, and the ever-popular “Soramizaka” – perfect for taking photos with the TOKYO SKYTREE – will also be illuminated, along with an 8-meter-tall Christmas tree. A Christmas market offering food and drinks can also be enjoyed. Moreover, special “Champagnetree” lighting – which makes TOKYO SKYTREE look like a Christmas tree, and “Candletree” lighting – which makes it look like a candle, will be lit up over the Christmas period only. The entire TOKYO SKYTREE will be adorned with incredible illuminations.
TOKYO SKYTREE TOWN Dream Christmas 2023

© TOKYO-SKYTREE TOWN

Marunouchi Illumination 2023

In terms of sheer scale, the Marunouchi illuminations are hard to beat, with around 1.2 million lights in total. Over 360 boulevard trees, primarily along the approximately 1.2-kilometer Marunouchi Naka-dori Street, along with the Tokyo Kotsu Kaikan in front of Yurakucho Station, and Otemachi Naka-dori Street, are decorated with champagne-gold LEDs. All the energy used in the display, which runs from November through to mid-February, comes from natural sources like solar and wind power. Come and enjoy a winter scenery unique to Tokyo’s Marunouchi district.
Marunouchi Illumination 2023

Past illumination display

Tokyo Dome City Winter Illumination “Show”

The theme for this year's event is “Show” (although the actual meaning of this kanji is “laugh”). One section of Tokyo Dome City is produced by a popular comedian, and carefully selected gimmicks and decorative illuminations can be experienced. A 15-meter-tall Christmas tree is lit with multicolored LEDs, allowing visitors to enjoy these illuminations in the revamped lawn square.
Tokyo Dome City Winter Illumination “Show”

 

TOKYO TOWER Winter Fantasy RETROSPECTIVE ILLUMINATION 2023

Tokyo Tower has long been referred to as "the candle of the city," as it brings a warm glow to the night sky. This year marks the tower's 65th anniversary. At the front entrance, visitors will be able to enjoy a 10-meter-tall "Little Tokyo Tower," resembling a Christmas tree, and a light show set to original music. Also, projection mapping will be displayed across the night sky, visible from the windows of the main deck (admission fee required). Visit the base of the tower and enjoy the nostalgic, retrospective illuminations which honor Tokyo Tower's 65-year history.
TOKYO TOWER Winter Fantasy RETROSPECTIVE ILLUMINATION 2023

Photos for illustrative purposes only.

Yomiuriland Jewellumination®:Light is Love

Every year, Yomiuriland's "Jewellumination" event uses gemstone-inspired lights to create jaw-dropping displays on creative themes. The decorations cover every corner of the amusement park—even the roller coasters. This year, these illuminations are once again produced by Ms. Motoko Ishii, who is active worldwide. Be sure to take in the dynamic fountain shows.
Yomiuriland Jewellumination®:Light is Love

 

Streetside illuminations

Many of Tokyo's most popular shopping streets also partake in the holiday cheer with lights of their own. Omotesando, Roppongi, Ginza, Nihonbashi, Ebisu and Nakameguro all put up spectacular Christmas light displays. Enjoy a stroll down these enchanting streets, then relax with a meal or drink at one of the many dining establishments these areas are famous for.

Light-up events

 

Light-up (Illumination)

See All