Winter Illumination Guide

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 complimented by elaborate Christmas lights and illuminations. Spend an evening strolling down the beautifully lit streets of Ginza, and Omotesando, or head to Shiodome and Shinjuku to see spectacular illuminations utilizing hundreds of thousands of LEDs, projection mapping, and more.

Caretta Shiodome Illumination

For what is arguably the best illumination in Tokyo, head to Caretta Shiodome to witness a festive light and music show that boasts some 250,000 LEDs. Held from mid-November to mid-February, this is also one of the city’s longest-running illuminations.

Tokyo Midtown Illumination

A short walk from Roppongi Station, the Tokyo Midtown shopping promenade transforms into a winter wonderland of over 150,000 ambient blue lights, the number of LEDs changing each year. Held from mid-November to Christmas Day, the site is a popular date spot for couples. Be aware that the area tends to get crowded in the days leading up to Christmas, which is typically celebrated as a romantic date night.

Tokyo Skytree Town Dream Christmas

With Skytree one of the newest major attractions in the city, local developers have upped the ante to draw holiday visitors to the area. Taking place from mid-November to Christmas Day, Tokyo Skytree Town Dream Christmas boasts approximately 520,000 LEDs, along with spectacular projection mapping shows, a Christmas light garden, and a Christmas-themed Skytree tower lit up in red and green.

Streetside illuminations

Many of Tokyo’s most popular shopping streets also partake in the holiday cheer with lights of their own. Omotesando, Roppongi, Ginza, Marunouchi, 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.