Tokyo Winter Illuminations

5 BEST spots to see the lights this winter season 2024 – for FREE!

Winter is arguably one of the best seasons to spend in Tokyo, with all of the festive decorations, limited edition souvenirs, seasonal products, and the most-awaited winter illuminations – you’ll definitely feel the magic behind the season. 

Here are our top 5 picks to see amazing views of winter illuminations for FREE this year:

Roppongi Hills

Photo credit: Hello Tokyo Tours

One of the most well-known events in Tokyo during Christmas is the Roppongi Hills Christmas where the Keyakizaka Avenue is decorated with sparkling lights at night, which turns it to a romantic spot in winter. This year’s theme is Snow and Blue.

There are multiple locations in Roppongi hills that offer different types of Christmas lighting such as 66 Plaza, Mohri Garden, West Walk, and Tokyo City View. 

Roppongi Hills is accessible from Roppongi Station (Exit 1C) via the Tokyo Metro Hibiya Line or Roppongi Station (Exit 3) via the Toei Oedo Line.

Lighting time: 17:00 to 23:00

Dates: November 7, 2024 – December 25, 2024

Omotesando Street

Photo credit: Trip Advisor

The row of zelkova trees is a distinctive trademark of Omotesando. This year it will be illuminated in champagne gold, along with the shrubbery that surrounds it. With half a million LED lights, it will surely warm the hearts of those walking around the area during the cold winter nights. 

Omotesando is accessible from Meiji-jingumae Station (via the Tokyo Metro Chiyoda and Fukutoshin Lines) and JR Omotesando Station.

Lighting time: Sunset to 22:00.

Dates: December 1, 2024 – December 28, 2024

Marunouchi Illumination

Photo credit: JW-Web Magazine

The Marunouchi Illumination can be viewed a minute away from the south gate of Tokyo station at Marunouchi Naka-dori Avenue where the 1.2KM stretch of trees will be adorned with champagne gold lights. 

The elegant display stands out from the rest because it has an energy-saving system. They make use of solar and wind energy to  power the electricity for the whole illumination.

Lighting time: 16:00 to 23:00 

Dates: November 14, 2024 – February 16, 2025

From December 1 to the 31st, the illumination will start at 16:00 and last until 24:00.

Meguro-gawa Minna no Illumination

Photo credit: JW-Web Magazine

A cherry blossom theme will be captivating visitors along the Meguro River in between Gotanda and Osaki stations of the Yamanote line. The trees will be decorated in pink LED lights and will stretch for about two kilometers, making a beautiful riverside stroll. 

Whether you need a pick-me-up or just feel the need to relax, you will definitely enjoy the serenity this illumination will give off. 

Lighting time: 17:00-22:00

Dates: November 15, 2024 to January 13, 2025

Hibiya Magic Illumination

Photo credit: Illumi Walker Plus

With an incredible view of Tokyo Tower, the streets and park view garden of Hibiya are dazzled with magical lights during the winter. This year, their theme is Magical Moments, and the area has switched out their usual silver shimmering lights in exchange for a rainbow city. 

Guests can walk down a rainbow tunnel or visit their glittering garden filled with rainbow LED lights where they can sit and relax while overlooking a glamorous view of the city. 

Lighting time: 16:00 23:00

Dates: November 14, 2024, to February 28, 2025

Location: Tokyo Midtown Hibiya Exterior (Hibiya Step Plaza/6F Park View Garden)

There are a lot more options, and chances are you’ll stumble around pretty lights wherever you roam around at night. Make sure to dress warm enough to stay and enjoy the views as much as you like!

Tell us about your Tokyo Winter Illumination experience and don’t forget to share your Smiles.