Best Places to Visit in Japan for Christmas Cheer

Japan may not be the first country that comes to mind when you think of Christmas, but the Land of the Rising Sun offers a unique blend of traditional and Western holiday celebrations. Expats and digital nomads looking to get into the festive spirit will find that Japan lights up with illuminations, Christmas markets, and events that provide a magical experience. Here are some of the best places to visit in December to soak up the holiday atmosphere.

Tokyo's Roppongi Hills

Roppongi Hills in Tokyo transforms into a winter wonderland during the holiday season. The highlight is the spectacular illumination event known as "Keyakizaka Illumination," which typically runs from mid-November to Christmas Day. The streets are adorned with glittering lights, creating a mesmerizing tunnel of brilliance that attracts visitors from all over. Additionally, the Roppongi Hills Christmas Market offers a variety of festive goods, from traditional Christmas decorations to seasonal treats like stollen and hot wine.

We Recommend: Don't miss the chance to try the German sausages and the warm, spiced mulled wine, which are crowd favorites at the Roppongi Hills Christmas Market. The combination of the dazzling lights and the hearty food creates a truly festive experience.

Osaka's Umeda District

Osaka's Umeda district is known for its German Christmas Market, held at the base of the Umeda Sky Building. This market typically starts in mid-November and runs until Christmas. It's a perfect spot for expats and digital nomads to gather and enjoy the holiday spirit with an array of crafts, Christmas decorations, and German food. The Sky Building itself is also lit up, adding to the festive atmosphere.

We Recommend: Be sure to try the hot chocolate and the pretzels, which are particularly popular. The Sky Building also offers an observatory deck for a panoramic view of the city, which is especially beautiful during the illumination event.

Kobe's Luminarie

Kobe Luminarie is an annual light festival held in memory of the victims of the Great Hanshin Earthquake of 1995. This event, usually held in early December, features intricate light displays that create a solemn yet beautiful atmosphere. The streets of Kobe are lined with stunning arches of lights, drawing visitors from across Japan and the world.

We Recommend: While there, take a moment to enjoy the local street food vendors who offer a variety of Japanese snacks. The warm takoyaki (octopus balls) are a must-try on a cold December night.

Kyoto's Arashiyama Hanatouro

Kyoto's Arashiyama district hosts the Arashiyama Hanatouro, an illumination event that usually takes place in mid-December. The area's temples, bamboo groves, and even the Togetsukyo Bridge are illuminated, creating a serene and traditional Japanese holiday experience. Lanterns line the streets, and the bamboo forest glows with lights, making for a breathtaking stroll.

We Recommend: Don't miss the opportunity to sip on amazake, a sweet, low-alcohol Japanese drink made from fermented rice, which is often sold at street stalls during the event.

Sapporo's White Illumination

Sapporo, known for its snow and winter activities, hosts the Sapporo White Illumination. This event starts in late November and runs through Christmas, with the city's parks and streets adorned with millions of sparkling lights. Odori Park, in particular, becomes a centerpiece with its large-scale light displays and sculptures.

We Recommend: Try the local Hokkaido specialties like soup curry or jingisukan (grilled mutton) at the food stalls, which provide a warm and satisfying treat in the chilly weather.

Sendai's Pageant of Starlight

Sendai's Pageant of Starlight is one of the largest illumination events in Japan. The zelkova trees along Jozenji-dori Avenue are wrapped in hundreds of thousands of LED lights, creating a starry canopy that stretches for several blocks. This event typically runs from early December to the end of the year.

We Recommend: Enjoy the unique experience of walking through the "Tunnel of Illumination" and be sure to grab some hot roasted chestnuts from a street vendor for a classic winter snack.

Nagoya's Hisaya Odori Park

Nagoya's Hisaya Odori Park is home to a lovely Christmas market inspired by European traditions. The market, which usually starts in late November and ends on Christmas Day, features charming wooden huts selling crafts, ornaments, and festive foods. The park is also beautifully illuminated, adding to the holiday cheer.

We Recommend: Sample the Christstollen, a German fruit bread that's a holiday favorite, and pair it with a cup of hot Glühwein to keep warm while browsing the market.

Yokohama's Red Brick Warehouse Christmas Market

The Red Brick Warehouse Christmas Market in Yokohama is a must-visit for those seeking a traditional European Christmas vibe. The market is typically open from late November to Christmas and features a range of festive goods, from ornaments to artisanal crafts. The historical red brick buildings provide a picturesque backdrop for the holiday festivities.

We Recommend: Indulge in the freshly baked pastries and the mulled wine, which are sure to put you in the holiday spirit. The market also often features performances and workshops that add to the festive atmosphere.