Experience Christmas in Japan
A Culturally Unique -- and Surprisingly Magical -- Holiday Season
If you're spending the holiday season in Japan, you're in for a very different kind of Christmas experience.
Japan doesn't treat Christmas as a religious celebration; instead, it's a festive cultural event filled with twinkling illuminations, romantic vibes, and uniquely Japanese traditions that you won't find anywhere else.
Whether you're traveling, living in Japan, or visiting friends, here's your guide to enjoying Christmas the Japanese way.
How Christmas Is Usually Celebrated in Japan
1. A Romantic Holiday for Couples
In Japan, Christmas Eve is essentially a date night. Restaurants offer special "Christmas Dinner Courses," hotels roll out romantic packages, and streets fill with couples strolling under winter lights. It's often compared to Valentine's Day in the West.
2. Festive Illuminations Everywhere
Japan takes winter illuminations seriously. From entire neighborhoods wrapped in LED lights to massive outdoor installations, December is one giant glowing photo spot.
3. "Christmas Chicken" Tradition (Yes, KFC!)
Forget turkey -- Japan has its own Christmas classic: fried chicken.
KFC's Christmas buckets are so popular that many people preorder weeks in advance. Some supermarkets also sell roasted chicken legs as a seasonal must-have.
4. Christmas Cake Is a Big Deal
A shortcake topped with whipped cream and fresh strawberries is the star dessert of Japanese Christmas. Families often buy them from patisseries, convenience stores, or department-store food halls.
5. Christmas = Party with Friends or Family
Rather than religious gatherings, people typically enjoy lighthearted celebrations with friends or small family gatherings at home.
Tips for Enjoying Christmas in Japan
1. Book Restaurants and Hotels Early
Christmas Eve dinner reservations fill up quickly, especially at romantic restaurants with Christmas course menus.
2. Want KFC? Preorder!
If you want to try Japan's legendary "Christmas Chicken," make a reservation online -- or you'll face long lines and potential sellouts.
3. Expect Crowds Around Illuminations
Tokyo's major illumination spots (like Roppongi, Shibuya, Marunouchi) are extremely popular at night. Arrive early for the best experience -- and the best photos.
4. Christmas Isn't a National Holiday
December 25th is a regular workday in Japan. Most celebrations happen on the weekend or on Christmas Eve.
5. Many Events Continue Until the End of December
Even if you miss Christmas Eve, you can still enjoy winter markets and illuminations until late December -- some even extend into January.
The Best Christmas Markets & Illuminations to Experience in Japan (2025 Edition)
Japan may not celebrate Christmas as a traditional religious holiday, but when it comes to festive lights, cozy holiday markets, and picture-perfect winter vibes, the country truly delivers. From European-style Christmas markets to jaw-dropping illuminations that transform entire neighborhoods, December in Japan feels like stepping into a winter fantasy.
Whether you're visiting Tokyo for the holidays or planning a festive getaway, here are the must-see Christmas markets and illumination events across Japan in 2025.
CHRISTMAS MARKETS IN TOKYO
Roppongi Hills Christmas Market 2025
Area: Roppongi, Tokyo
Inspired by the famous markets in Stuttgart, Germany, this is one of Tokyo's most authentic Christmas experiences.
The wooden huts, German ornaments, and traditional foods (think sausages, pretzels, mulled wine) make it feel like a slice of Europe in the middle of the city.
Why go:
- Authentic European atmosphere
- German crafts, ornaments & wooden decorations
- Hot mulled wine and hearty winter foods
Perfect for: Anyone craving a traditional European Christmas vibe.
https://www.gotokyo.org/en/spot/ev129/index.html Go Tokyo+1
Tokyo Christmas Market 2025 (Jingu Gaien & Shiba Park)
Area:Meiji Jingu Gaien and Shiba Park,Tokyo
Known for its massive, hand-carved German Christmas pyramid tower, this market is one of the largest festive events in Tokyo. Expect live music, handmade crafts, hot chocolate, and holiday performances throughout the season.
Why go:
- One of the biggest holiday markets in Japan
- Beautiful decorations and photo spots
- Great for families, couples, and travelers
Perfect for: A warm, festive night out in the heart of Tokyo.
Meiji Jingu Gaien
https://www.timeout.com/tokyo/things-to-do/tokyo-christmas-market
Shiba Park
https://visit-minato-city.tokyo/en/events/3104
Yokohama Red Brick Warehouse Christmas Market 2025
Area: Yokohama, Kanagawa (near Tokyo)
If you're willing to take a short trip outside Tokyo, this market is a must. Set against the iconic Red Brick Warehouse, the European-style wooden stalls, sparkling lights, and waterfront views create one of the most magical holiday atmospheres in the country.
Why go:
- Stunning European-style setting
- Ice skating rink (most years)
- Craft beer, hot wine, and winter comfort foods
Perfect for: Photos, date nights, and travelers who want an atmospheric Christmas setting.
https://www.yokohamajapan.com/events/detail.php?id=164
MUST-SEE ILLUMINATIONS IN TOKYO
Shibuya Ao no Dokutsu ("Blue Cave") 2025
Area: Shibuya, Tokyo
https://shibuya-aonodokutsu.jp/ shibuya-aonodokutsu.jp+1
This iconic illumination bathes Shibuya's streets in glowing blue light, creating a surreal tunnel-like atmosphere. It's one of Tokyo's most famous winter light displays, popular for evening strolls and photos.
Why go:
- A breathtaking "blue tunnel" that feels otherworldly
- Located near Shibuya's best restaurants and shops
Perfect for: Nighttime walks and stunning Instagram shots.
Marunouchi Illumination 2025
Area: Marunouchi / Tokyo Station area
https://www.marunouchi.com/en/pickup/event/7982/ 丸の内.com+2Go Tokyo+2
Elegant, warm, champagne-gold lights decorate the trees lining Marunouchi's fashionable shopping streets. This illumination has a refined, upscale charm -- ideal for an evening stroll after dinner or holiday shopping.
Why go:
- Sophisticated atmosphere
- Great restaurants and cafés nearby
- Easy access from Tokyo Station
Perfect for: Travelers wanting a chic, classy Christmas mood.
Tokyo Midtown Winter Lights 2025 (Roppongi)
Area: Roppongi, Tokyo
https://www.gotokyo.org/en/spot/ev174/index.html Go Tokyo
Tokyo Midtown's winter illumination is known for its modern, artistic design. Expect interactive installations, glowing pathways, and futuristic light shows that make this one of the most stylish winter attractions in the city.
Why go:
- Artistic, cutting-edge light installations
- Excellent food halls and shopping
- Romantic night-time atmosphere
Perfect for: Couples and travelers seeking a modern holiday experience.
Caretta Shiodome Illumination 2025
Area: Shiodome, Tokyo
https://www.caretta.jp/foreign/index caretta.jp+1
One of Tokyo's longest-running illumination events, Caretta Shiodome features themed light shows that run every few minutes. The small plaza comes alive with color-shifting LEDs and music.
Why go:
- Dynamic, musical illumination show
- Free to enter
- Close to restaurants and shopping spots
Perfect for: A quick but impressive stop during a Tokyo itinerary.
HIBIYA Magic Time Illumination 2025
Area: Hibiya, Tokyo
https://www.hibiya.tokyo-midtown.com/xmas/en/
TIPS FOR ENJOYING CHRISTMAS EVENTS IN JAPAN
- Go early to avoid weekend crowds.
- Dress warm -- nights can be freezing.
- Most markets accept cashless payments, but having some yen on hand is helpful.
- Illuminations are typically free, but food and drinks at markets can be pricey.
- Events often run until late December (some extend into January).
