Get into the holiday spirit by enjoying Tokyo cityscapes enlivened by dazzling illuminations throughout the capital region as the nights grow longer.

Shaun Fernando, JAPAN Forward

What's the best way to end a sightseeing day in winter? It's definitely worth noting that winter illuminations are featured at many famous (and not so famous) sites across Japan in the last month of the year.

In Tokyo alone there are numerous spots featuring gorgeous nighttime illuminations, helping to brighten up the winter evenings. It's difficult to miss them, but here are just a few highlights:

Tokyo Mega Illumi

The Tokyo Mega Illumi is the city's largest illumination event with millions of LED bulbs. It's held on non-race days at the Ōi Racecourse, also known as Tokyo City Keiba.

Having been held annually since 2018, it is one of the most highly anticipated events featuring winter illuminations.

There are two main areas of the venue: the Twinkle Area and the Glitter Area. They are linked by a light tunnel.

LEDs cover every inch of the tunnel, emitting multi-color light that is incredibly rich in hue.

The Rainbow Grand Staircase is the first thing that you will see once you have passed through the tunnel.

There are many other photogenic spots, such as the Aurora Forest and Dazzling Waterfall, so be sure to check them out as well.

In addition, it's a great family outing! You can pet some real horses at the track ー and take pictures with them.

This year's light-up started on October 15, 2022, and will run until January 9, 2023.

The racetrack is approximately 20 minutes by train from Tokyo Station. For more information on business hours and days of closure, please visit the official website.

Midtown Christmas Illuminations

A champagne gold color scheme characterizes this year's Tokyo Midtown lights, creating a romantic atmosphere. The large, outdoor Midtown Garden area is especially attractive.

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