Nagasaki Joins Utsunomiya, Nara, Himeji, Oita, Takamatsu and More as Top Christmas and New Year Travel Destinations in Japan Offering Magical Illuminations and Festive Events: Everything for Your Travel Escape

Published on December 5, 2025

Nagasaki joins Utsunomiya, Nara, Himeji, Oita, Takamatsu, and more as top Christmas and New Year travel destinations in Japan, offering magical illuminations and festive events that provide the perfect mix of modern celebrations and cultural traditions. These cities stand out during the holiday season, each showcasing their own unique attractions—from stunning light displays in Himeji and Oita to New Year rituals in Nara and Tsu. Whether you’re looking for dazzling illuminations, traditional shrine visits, or festive fireworks, Japan’s holiday offerings create an unforgettable experience.

With events such as the Beppu Christmas Fantasia, Asahikawa Winter Festival, and vibrant illuminations across Utsunomiya and Takamatsu, these destinations capture the magic of the season. From peaceful temple visits to lively New Year’s celebrations, each city offers a diverse range of holiday experiences, making Japan an ideal place for travelers seeking a mix of cultural heritage and festive cheer.

Nagasaki: A Christmas Wonderland with Stunning Illuminations and Festive Magic

Nagasaki, a city renowned for its beautiful blend of Japanese and Western influences, stands as a top destination for travelers seeking a magical Christmas and New Year experience. In 2025-2026, this picturesque city, with its harbor views and historic charm, is transformed into a vibrant holiday wonderland. Here, visitors can enjoy grand illuminations, breathtaking fireworks, and an array of festive events that celebrate the season in true Nagasaki style.

Key Events and Attractions in Nagasaki During Christmas and New Year

Nagasaki’s winter celebrations are all about blending traditional and modern holiday experiences. From illuminations at Huis Ten Bosch to the festive countdown fireworks along the harbor, there’s something for everyone.

Highlights of Nagasaki’s Christmas Festivities

• Huis Ten Bosch Christmas Celebration
  This famous theme park in Nagasaki goes all out with its holiday decorations. Visitors will find themselves immersed in a European-style Christmas complete with a massive Grand Chandelier Tree, shimmering lights, live performances, and a charming Christmas market. It’s the perfect setting for families and couples alike to celebrate the festive season.
• New Year’s Countdown Fireworks at Nagasaki Harbor
  The vibrant waterfront of Nagasaki becomes the backdrop for an incredible New Year’s Eve fireworks display. Watch as the sky fills with dazzling colors, accompanied by music that perfectly complements the festive spirit. Whether you’re in one of the nearby restaurants or on the waterfront, it’s an unforgettable way to usher in the New Year.
• Christmas Market at Dejima
  Dejima, the island that once served as a Dutch trading post, hosts a quaint Christmas Market where visitors can enjoy European-style food, mulled wine, and unique handcrafted goods. It’s a lovely place to shop for holiday gifts or indulge in festive treats.

Why Visit Nagasaki for the Holidays?

Nagasaki offers a distinctive experience compared to other holiday destinations in Japan. It’s a city that effortlessly combines European charm with Japanese hospitality. From historical sites to modern festivities, Nagasaki offers a rich and diverse holiday experience, with events that reflect both local traditions and global holiday spirit.

Utsunomiya: A City of Light with Stunning LED Displays and Traditional New Year Celebrations

Utsunomiya, the capital of Tochigi Prefecture, offers a magical holiday experience with its stunning illuminations and festive charm. The city is known for its beautiful streets adorned with vibrant LED lights, creating a perfect blend of modernity and tradition. Whether you’re walking through the illuminated shopping districts or celebrating the New Year at local parks and temples, Utsunomiya delivers a memorable experience for all.

Key Events and Attractions in Utsunomiya During Christmas and New Year

Utsunomiya’s holiday celebrations are centered around its dazzling illuminations, with a focus on creating a cheerful atmosphere throughout the city. From LED displays on shopping streets to traditional New Year rituals, the city offers a unique holiday escape.

Highlights of Utsunomiya’s Christmas and New Year Festivities

• Utsunomiya Illumination 2025
  The Utsunomiya Illumination 2025 is a mesmerizing display of over 260,000 LED lights that light up key streets and landmarks in the city. The illuminations are designed to capture the festive spirit, with vibrant colors and creative light installations. The lighting ceremony on November 20 marks the official start of the season and includes live performances, local food, and a wine event for those looking to enjoy some local flavors while taking in the breathtaking light displays.
• Kamegawa River Tree Lights
  The illuminations along Kamegawa River are a sight to behold. The trees lining the riverbank are transformed into twinkling works of art, offering a peaceful and reflective atmosphere. This display is perfect for a romantic evening stroll or a tranquil moment away from the hustle and bustle of the city center.
• Orion Square Lighting Ceremony
  Orion Square’s lighting ceremony is a popular event in Utsunomiya, bringing together the community to celebrate the start of the festive season. The square is illuminated with lights, and there are various activities such as live performances and food stalls, creating a lively and festive atmosphere.
• New Year’s Shrine Visits (Hatsumode)
  Utsunomiya is also known for its beautiful Futarasan Shrine, where thousands of visitors come for their first shrine visit of the year. The New Year’s shrine visit, or hatsumode, is a traditional Japanese custom where locals and visitors alike gather to pray for health, happiness, and good fortune in the coming year. It’s a peaceful and spiritual way to start the New Year, with the serene atmosphere of the shrine providing a perfect contrast to the bustling festivities.

Why Visit Utsunomiya for the Holidays?

Utsunomiya offers a unique combination of modernity and tradition that makes it a fantastic destination during the holiday season. With its stunning illuminations, festive atmosphere, and rich cultural heritage, it provides a perfect escape for travelers looking to experience both the vibrant and serene sides of Japan during Christmas and New Year.

From the dazzling LED displays to the tranquil New Year shrine visits, Utsunomiya combines the best of contemporary holiday celebrations with timeless traditions. Whether you’re visiting for the illuminations or to participate in the ancient customs of hatsumode, Utsunomiya offers a delightful and memorable holiday experience.

Nara: Embrace Tradition with Timeless New Year Rituals and Serene Illuminations

Nara, one of Japan’s most historic cities, invites travelers to experience the magic of the New Year through ancient traditions and subtle holiday charm. While the city may not feature large-scale Christmas celebrations, its New Year festivities are some of the most authentic and spiritually significant in the country. Visitors can experience the calming rituals of hatsumode, the first shrine visit of the year, and witness the unique spectacle of the Joya-no-kane bell-ringing ceremony at Nara Park. Alongside these traditions, Nara’s gentle illuminations provide a serene atmosphere for holiday travelers seeking a blend of peace, culture, and history.

Key Events and Attractions in Nara During Christmas and New Year

Nara’s festivities revolve around tradition, with its temples and shrines playing a central role in welcoming the New Year. The city’s tranquil illuminations add a gentle touch of light to the season, making it an ideal destination for those looking to experience the quieter, more spiritual side of Japan’s holiday celebrations.

Highlights of Nara’s Christmas and New Year Festivities

• Joya-no-kane Ceremony at Todai-ji Temple
  One of Nara’s most important New Year’s traditions is the Joya-no-kane bell-ringing ceremony. Held at Todai-ji Temple, this ceremony involves ringing the temple bell 108 times at midnight on December 31, a symbolic act meant to purify the 108 earthly desires, according to Buddhist belief. This ritual is deeply rooted in Japanese culture and provides a reflective way to usher in the New Year.
• Nara Park Deer Feeding
  Nara is famous for its friendly wild deer, which are considered messengers of the gods. During the New Year period, visitors can participate in the tradition of feeding the deer as a way to bring good luck for the year ahead. This unique experience is one of the many charms that make Nara’s New Year celebrations special, offering a peaceful, yet meaningful, way to connect with nature and tradition.
• Nara Winter Illuminations
  While Nara may not boast the grand illuminations seen in other Japanese cities, its gentle winter lights add a serene beauty to the city’s streets. The illuminations, often focused around temples and historical landmarks, create a calm and reflective atmosphere, providing a perfect backdrop for those looking to escape the holiday rush. The soft glow from the lights in combination with the city’s cultural landmarks offers a peaceful experience for visitors.
• Kasuga Taisha Shrine Hatsumode
  Hatsumode, the first shrine visit of the year, is an essential part of New Year’s celebrations in Japan, and Nara is home to one of the most significant shrines for this tradition — Kasuga Taisha Shrine. Here, visitors can pray for health, happiness, and good fortune in the coming year. The shrine is beautifully illuminated, and the spiritual atmosphere of the site makes for a profound New Year experience.

Why Visit Nara for the Holidays?

Nara offers a unique blend of spiritual traditions and historical landmarks, making it an ideal destination for travelers looking to experience the authentic, peaceful side of Japan’s New Year celebrations. While it may not have the bustling holiday events of some other cities, Nara’s traditions offer a deeply meaningful and reflective holiday experience.

The city’s gentle illuminations, along with its hatsumode and Joya-no-kane rituals, allow visitors to immerse themselves in Japanese culture, offering an experience that goes beyond typical holiday celebrations. Whether feeding the deer at Nara Park, participating in the bell-ringing ceremony, or visiting a shrine for New Year prayers, Nara provides a tranquil, spiritual escape that connects visitors with Japan’s rich traditions.

Himeji: A Castle Illuminated by History and Festive Spirit

Himeji, home to Japan’s most famous and beautiful castle, offers an unforgettable holiday experience, combining historical grandeur with stunning seasonal illuminations. Known for the iconic Himeji Castle, which is designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the city takes on a magical quality during the Christmas and New Year period. Here, visitors can explore magnificent light displays, a European-style Christmas market, and festive events that reflect the city’s deep cultural roots. Whether wandering around the illuminated castle grounds or enjoying the local seasonal treats, Himeji offers both history and holiday cheer.

Key Events and Attractions in Himeji During Christmas and New Year

Himeji’s holiday celebrations are centered around its castle, with a stunning blend of light art, holiday markets, and traditional events. The illuminations around the city’s main streets and the castle make for a magical winter scene, while the nearby Christmas market brings a touch of European flair to the city’s festive atmosphere.

Highlights of Himeji’s Christmas and New Year Festivities

• Himeji Castle Light-Up
  One of the most breathtaking events in Himeji is the Himeji Castle Light-Up. This annual light show transforms the already impressive Himeji Castle into an illuminated wonder, with projections of “Peace” themed light art creating a serene atmosphere. The combination of the historic castle and the stunning light display makes this an absolute must-see during the holiday season.
• Otemae Street Illuminations
  Otemae Street becomes a glowing spectacle during the holiday season, with 250,000 LED lights decorating the street and creating a festive atmosphere. Visitors can take a leisurely stroll down the street, stopping at various photo spots and enjoying the interactive light displays. This is one of the largest light displays in the city and provides an enchanting experience for anyone visiting Himeji during the holidays.
• Christmas Market at Otemae Park
  Himeji’s Christmas Market brings a European flair to Japan, with stalls offering traditional Christmas foods, hot drinks, and handmade goods. The market is filled with festive cheer, and the European-style foods and decorations make it a great place to shop for holiday gifts or simply enjoy the holiday spirit. It’s a wonderful spot to relax and soak in the festive ambiance.
• New Year’s Shrine Visits
  As with much of Japan, visiting a shrine for the first hatsumode (New Year’s shrine visit) is an important tradition. Himeji’s Engyo-ji Temple is a peaceful spot for this ritual, where visitors can pray for health and happiness in the New Year. The serene atmosphere and beautiful surroundings make it the perfect place to start the year on a spiritual note.

Why Visit Himeji for the Holidays?

Himeji is one of Japan’s most picturesque cities, and it offers a perfect combination of history and holiday magic during the Christmas and New Year period. The city’s most iconic landmark, Himeji Castle, becomes even more stunning when illuminated by festive lights, and the town’s winter illuminations create a beautiful holiday atmosphere throughout the city.

For those seeking a combination of culture, history, and holiday cheer, Himeji is a top destination. The Christmas Market at Otemae Park, the majestic Himeji Castle Light-Up, and the tranquil New Year shrine visits offer a variety of experiences that cater to both the festive and reflective sides of the season.

Oita: Sparkling Lights and Spectacular Fireworks Await in Japan’s Holiday Haven

Oita, located on the beautiful island of Kyushu, offers a delightful holiday experience filled with dazzling illuminations, stunning fireworks, and a warm festive spirit. The city is known for its Oita Light Fantasy, which features over half a million lights, and the Beppu Christmas Fantasia, where fireworks are synchronized with music, creating a magical winter wonderland. Oita’s festive charm, combined with its unique local traditions, makes it a must-visit destination for travelers seeking a vibrant and enchanting holiday getaway.

Key Events and Attractions in Oita During Christmas and New Year

Oita’s holiday offerings are centered around large-scale light displays and exciting events, with plenty of opportunities to explore its scenic beauty and soak in the local culture. Whether it’s enjoying festive fireworks or visiting illuminated parks, Oita’s celebrations promise to make your holiday season unforgettable.

Highlights of Oita’s Christmas and New Year Festivities

• Oita Light Fantasy 2025
  The Oita Light Fantasy is one of the most anticipated events in the city, lighting up JR Oita Station, Funai Chuo Exit, and Showa Street with over 550,000 lights. The display creates a mesmerizing atmosphere, with special photo spots and newly added illuminations along Chuo Street. Visitors can enjoy the lights daily from 5:00 PM, making it a great evening activity for families and couples.
• Beppu Christmas Fantasia
  The Beppu Christmas Fantasia offers a stunning combination of synchronized fireworks, music, and choir performances. Held at Matogahama Park, this event features a spectacular fireworks show that lights up the night sky, accompanied by festive music. It’s a great event for those who love a dynamic and colorful celebration, blending Japan’s unique firework tradition with holiday cheer.
• New Year’s Fireworks at Bungo Futamigaura
  To ring in the New Year, Bungo Futamigaura hosts early morning fireworks on January 1, 2026. This event marks the start of the year with colorful explosions over the water, creating a breathtaking view for all who gather to watch. Following the fireworks, visitors can enjoy a traditional festival atmosphere, making this a festive and cultural way to start the year.
• Love Fantasia Nakatsu
  Love Fantasia Nakatsu is another bright event in Oita, featuring illuminations around Nakatsu Station. The display includes light mazes and various seasonal decorations that bring a sense of magic to the area. This is a more intimate experience compared to other large-scale events, perfect for those looking to enjoy a cozy and romantic atmosphere.

Why Visit Oita for the Holidays?

Oita offers a unique combination of dazzling lights, exciting fireworks, and a welcoming atmosphere that makes it a fantastic holiday destination. Whether you’re walking through the glowing streets of Oita City or witnessing the spectacular fireworks in Beppu and Bungo Futamigaura, the city offers a variety of experiences for travelers looking for both festivity and tradition.

From the grand illuminations of Oita Light Fantasy to the magical Beppu Christmas Fantasia, and the spiritual New Year’s fireworks, Oita offers a blend of modern holiday celebrations and cultural experiences that will make your Christmas and New Year in Japan truly memorable.

Takamatsu: A Tranquil Winter Escape with Illuminations and New Year Traditions

Takamatsu, the capital of Kagawa Prefecture on Shikoku Island, offers a more understated yet equally captivating holiday experience. While the city may not boast massive Christmas festivals, it is home to gentle winter illuminations and traditional New Year rituals that provide a peaceful and serene setting for holiday travelers. Takamatsu’s proximity to natural beauty, such as Ritsurin Garden, and its local New Year traditions make it a perfect spot for those looking to celebrate the season in a relaxed and culturally rich environment.

Key Events and Attractions in Takamatsu During Christmas and New Year

While Takamatsu may not feature large-scale Christmas markets or concerts, its illuminations, temple visits, and peaceful atmosphere provide a perfect balance of tranquility and festivity. For visitors seeking a more intimate holiday experience, Takamatsu offers plenty of opportunities to enjoy the season.

Highlights of Takamatsu’s Christmas and New Year Festivities

• Ritsurin Garden Winter Light-Up
  Ritsurin Garden, a renowned historic Japanese landscape garden, is beautifully illuminated during the winter months. The garden’s famous ponds, stone bridges, and centuries-old trees become even more stunning when adorned with soft lights. Visitors can enjoy peaceful walks through the illuminated paths, creating a tranquil and reflective atmosphere perfect for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of larger cities.
• New Year’s Shrine Visits
  Hatsumode, the first shrine visit of the New Year, is an important tradition in Takamatsu. Many locals and visitors alike head to Sanuki Kokubun-ji, one of the oldest temples in the region, to pray for health and prosperity in the coming year. This spiritual practice provides a deeply cultural and meaningful way to start the New Year. The temple grounds are serene, providing a calm environment to reflect and connect with local customs.
• Takamatsu Winter Illuminations
  Takamatsu’s winter illuminations are a more low-key but equally enchanting experience. The city’s shopping districts and streets come alive with soft lights, offering a cozy and welcoming atmosphere for those out exploring during the colder months. The illuminations are scattered throughout the city, making it perfect for a leisurely evening stroll or for combining with some holiday shopping.
• Local New Year Markets
  Takamatsu’s New Year markets offer a great way to experience the festive spirit through traditional Japanese foods and New Year goods. The markets are filled with local vendors selling everything from fresh produce and sweet treats to handcrafted New Year decorations. It’s the perfect place to sample some of the region’s culinary delights and pick up a souvenir to take home.

Why Visit Takamatsu for the Holidays?

Takamatsu provides a peaceful yet culturally rich holiday experience for those looking to spend their Christmas and New Year in a more intimate setting. With its serene Ritsurin Garden light-ups, Hatsumode shrine visits, and quiet street illuminations, Takamatsu offers a slower-paced alternative to the busier holiday destinations in Japan.

For travelers seeking a tranquil escape, Takamatsu’s gentle atmosphere, combined with its traditional New Year rituals and subtle holiday charm, provides a refreshing break. Whether enjoying a walk through an illuminated garden, exploring local markets, or taking part in spiritual rituals, Takamatsu offers an authentic and peaceful holiday experience.

Asahikawa: Snow Sculptures and Winter Festivities in Japan’s Frozen Wonderland

Asahikawa, located in the heart of Hokkaido, offers a stunning winter holiday experience, especially for travelers who enjoy snow and ice. Known for its Asahikawa Winter Festival, this city transforms into a snow sculptor’s paradise each year. While Christmas festivities may be more understated, the New Year celebrations and winter activities in Asahikawa provide a perfect opportunity for adventure seekers and those in love with the beauty of snow and ice. From giant snow sculptures to peaceful New Year shrine visits, Asahikawa is an ideal destination for those looking to embrace Japan’s snowy winter.

Key Events and Attractions in Asahikawa During Christmas and New Year

Asahikawa is famous for its stunning winter landscapes and winter-themed events. The Asahikawa Winter Festival draws visitors from across the country, but the city also celebrates New Year in a traditional and serene way. Whether you’re visiting for the snow sculptures or the shrine visits, Asahikawa offers plenty to do during the holiday season.

Highlights of Asahikawa’s Christmas and New Year Festivities

• Asahikawa Winter Festival
  The Asahikawa Winter Festival, held annually in February, is a snow lover’s dream. Featuring massive snow sculptures and ice art, this festival showcases the best of winter creativity. International artists come together to craft monumental snow sculptures, and smaller ice art pieces dot the area, creating a winter wonderland like no other. The festival is also filled with events, music, and performances, making it an exciting time to visit the city.
• Snow Sculptures & Ice Art
  During the festival, visitors can marvel at the intricate ice sculptures and massive snow structures that are part of the exhibition. These artworks are built with incredible attention to detail, often featuring intricate designs such as animal figures, traditional Japanese motifs, and other seasonal themes. This is a chance to experience the true beauty of winter in Japan, with art created from the very elements of snow and ice.
• New Year’s Shrine Visits
  Like many parts of Japan, Asahikawa sees thousands of visitors heading to the local Asahikawa Shrine during the New Year period. The tradition of hatsumode (the first shrine visit of the year) is a serene and spiritual way to begin the New Year. The peaceful shrine grounds are perfect for those seeking a quiet and reflective New Year’s experience, away from the hustle and bustle of larger celebrations.
• Winter Sports Activities
  Asahikawa’s proximity to ski resorts makes it a great destination for winter sports enthusiasts. With skiing, snowboarding, and other snow-based activities available at nearby resorts, visitors can enjoy an active holiday in the snow. Whether you’re hitting the slopes or just enjoying the frosty surroundings, Asahikawa offers a mix of both cultural and adventure experiences during the winter season.

Why Visit Asahikawa for the Holidays?

For those seeking a winter wonderland experience, Asahikawa is an excellent choice. With its incredible snow sculptures, ice art displays, and New Year shrine visits, the city offers a magical atmosphere that celebrates the beauty of winter. Asahikawa’s Winter Festival is a highlight of the season, attracting visitors with its creative snow art and festive celebrations.

The city also offers a peaceful yet vibrant experience for those seeking both winter adventure and cultural depth. Whether you’re enjoying the snow sculptures or participating in hatsumode, Asahikawa provides an unforgettable holiday experience surrounded by natural beauty and snowy landscapes.

Fukuyama: Traditional New Year Rituals and Peaceful Winter Escapes

Fukuyama, a city in Hiroshima Prefecture, may not be known for large Christmas festivities, but it makes up for it with its traditional New Year rituals and peaceful winter atmosphere. Located in the western part of Japan, Fukuyama offers a more tranquil holiday experience, with winter illuminations, New Year shrine visits, and local festivities that highlight Japan’s rich cultural traditions. For travelers seeking a calm and reflective holiday, Fukuyama provides a perfect backdrop to experience the serene side of Japan during the festive season.

Key Events and Attractions in Fukuyama During Christmas and New Year

Fukuyama may not have the big, flashy Christmas markets or fireworks, but it offers a mix of traditional and modern holiday experiences, with festive illuminations and opportunities to experience local customs. Visitors can enjoy scenic views, cultural rituals, and beautiful illuminations throughout the city.

Highlights of Fukuyama’s Christmas and New Year Festivities

• Winter Illuminations in Hiroshima Prefecture
  While Fukuyama may not be known for large Christmas events, the winter illuminations in Hiroshima Prefecture create a serene and inviting atmosphere throughout the city. Soft lights brighten up key areas of Fukuyama, offering a peaceful winter setting ideal for evening strolls. The illuminations add a touch of magic to the city’s quiet streets, making it a wonderful place for those who enjoy a calmer holiday experience.
• New Year’s Shrine Visits
  In Fukuyama, Hatsumode, the first shrine visit of the year, is an essential tradition. The local Fukuyama Shrine welcomes visitors to pray for health and prosperity in the coming year. This peaceful, spiritual practice is deeply ingrained in Japanese culture, and Fukuyama’s serene shrine offers a calm and reflective place for the New Year prayers.
• Hatsumode at Fukuyama Shrine
  As with many cities in Japan, visiting the shrine on New Year’s Day is a beloved custom. Fukuyama Shrine offers a tranquil atmosphere for visitors to engage in hatsumode, a New Year’s tradition where locals and visitors alike come to pray for a successful year. This peaceful ritual adds a sense of calm and tradition to the festive season.
• New Year’s Fireworks
  While not as grand as those in other cities, Fukuyama’s New Year’s fireworks are a charming addition to the celebration. The small-scale fireworks display marks the arrival of the New Year, filling the sky with color and excitement. It’s a perfect way to kick off the New Year with a festive burst of joy, reflecting the city’s welcoming spirit.

Why Visit Fukuyama for the Holidays?

Fukuyama offers a peaceful, culturally rich holiday experience. With its traditional shrine visits, local fireworks, and winter illuminations, the city provides a serene alternative to the more crowded holiday destinations in Japan. Fukuyama’s New Year celebrations are deeply rooted in local customs, offering travelers a chance to experience the country’s spiritual side during the holidays.

If you’re looking for a more laid-back New Year’s experience, Fukuyama is the perfect destination. The tranquil atmosphere, combined with traditional rituals and gentle illuminations, creates a memorable and peaceful holiday escape.

Gifu: Illuminations, Snow, and New Year Traditions in Japan’s Winter Wonderland

Gifu, located in central Japan, provides a scenic winter escape perfect for those looking to experience a blend of traditional culture, winter illuminations, and New Year celebrations. Known for its snowy mountains, hot springs, and peaceful temples, Gifu is an ideal destination for a serene holiday getaway. While the city’s Christmas festivities may not be as grand as some other destinations, its New Year celebrations, combined with the winter lights and temple visits, offer a calming and culturally rich experience.

Key Events and Attractions in Gifu During Christmas and New Year

Gifu’s holiday charm is all about understated beauty. The city may not host massive holiday festivals, but it offers tranquil illuminations, cultural New Year rituals, and stunning natural landscapes perfect for winter tourism. Whether you’re exploring Gifu’s winter illuminations or taking part in a New Year shrine visit, Gifu offers a peaceful and reflective holiday experience.

Highlights of Gifu’s Christmas and New Year Festivities

• Gifu Light Story 2026
  Gifu’s winter illuminations take on a more understated elegance with Gifu Light Story 2026. The city is transformed into a winter paradise, with streetlights and displays reflecting the beauty of Gifu’s natural landscapes. This annual event adds a touch of sparkle to the city’s serene winter setting, creating an ideal atmosphere for evening strolls. The light displays highlight Gifu’s natural beauty, especially around the Gifu Castle and scenic parks.
• New Year’s Shrine Visits
  A key part of New Year celebrations in Japan is hatsumode, the first shrine visit of the year, and Gifu is no exception. Gifu Shrine welcomes thousands of visitors during the New Year period. The peaceful surroundings and spiritual atmosphere make it an excellent spot for prayer and reflection. Visitors to the shrine can pray for health, happiness, and success in the upcoming year, taking part in a tradition that has been practiced for centuries.
• New Year’s Temple Bells
  In keeping with the traditions of Joya-no-kane (the ringing of temple bells), Gifu’s temples participate in ringing the bells at midnight on December 31. This ritual is meant to purify the soul and rid it of 108 earthly desires, and it’s a cultural practice seen across Japan during the New Year. The temple bells in Gifu echo through the cold night, marking the transition to a new year in a tranquil and reflective manner.
• Winter Snow Lantern Festival
  Gifu’s snow lantern festival is a stunning winter event that showcases the city’s snowy beauty. Local temples and parks are adorned with snow lanterns and ice sculptures, creating a magical, illuminated landscape that is perfect for winter photography. This festival, though smaller than some other major winter events, offers a unique opportunity to experience the peaceful beauty of Gifu during the holiday season.

Why Visit Gifu for the Holidays?

Gifu offers a quieter, more reflective holiday experience compared to other cities in Japan. Its traditional New Year rituals, snow lantern festivals, and winter illuminations create a serene atmosphere perfect for travelers who prefer a more peaceful and culturally rich holiday experience. The city is deeply rooted in Japanese traditions, making it an ideal destination for those looking to immerse themselves in Japan’s spiritual practices and natural beauty during the holiday season.

Whether you’re walking through Gifu’s light displays, visiting local shrines for New Year’s prayers, or enjoying the snow lantern festival, Gifu offers a peaceful and enriching experience that will leave you with lasting memories of Japan’s winter charm.

Tsu: A Serene New Year Experience with Traditional Shrines and Peaceful Illuminations

Tsu, the capital of Mie Prefecture, may not be known for extravagant holiday events, but it offers a peaceful and culturally rich experience for those seeking a tranquil getaway. The city’s traditional New Year rituals, including visits to local shrines and temples, combined with its winter illuminations, make it an ideal destination for travelers who prefer a more serene holiday experience. Tsu’s proximity to scenic locations like Nabana no Sato further enhances its appeal, offering the perfect escape for those looking to enjoy Japan’s more intimate and reflective holiday season.

Key Events and Attractions in Tsu During Christmas and New Year

Tsu offers a subtle yet beautiful celebration of the season with local illuminations, shrine visits, and a connection to nearby seasonal festivals. While the city may not host grand Christmas markets or fireworks, it provides the perfect setting for those looking to celebrate in a quieter, more traditional manner.

Highlights of Tsu’s Christmas and New Year Festivities

• Nabana no Sato Illumination
  Just a short distance from Tsu, the Nabana no Sato Illumination in Mie Prefecture is one of Japan’s largest and most popular light festivals. Visitors can explore the vast park adorned with millions of lights, including light tunnels, flower-themed displays, and reflective ponds. This event offers a spectacular view of the lights, making it a must-visit destination for those traveling through Tsu. While the event itself is not directly in Tsu, its proximity makes it easily accessible for day trips during the holiday season.
• New Year’s Shrine Visits (Hatsumode)
  As with much of Japan, Hatsumode, the first shrine visit of the New Year, is an important tradition in Tsu. Local shrines such as Tsu Shrine attract thousands of visitors during the New Year period. The spiritual atmosphere of these shrines makes them the perfect place to start the year with gratitude and good wishes. The shrine visits offer visitors a chance to connect with Japan’s cultural traditions and seek blessings for health, happiness, and prosperity in the coming year.
• Tsu Winter Illuminations
  Tsu’s winter illuminations bring a soft, peaceful light to the city streets and parks. The illuminations are not as grand as those in larger cities, but their subtle beauty is perfect for visitors who enjoy a more serene and reflective holiday experience. The lights provide a warm ambiance throughout the city, making it a lovely destination for evening walks or quiet moments of reflection.
• One Night in Matsusaka on Christmas Night
  A unique event held in nearby Matsusaka, the One Night in Matsusaka on Christmas Night features a spectacular 22-meter tall metasequoia tree illuminated with thousands of lights. This festive display is accompanied by performances, Santa photos, and gift-giving activities, creating a fun and festive atmosphere for families. Although the event is not held directly in Tsu, it is close enough to enjoy as part of a holiday outing in the region.

Why Visit Tsu for the Holidays?

Tsu offers a tranquil and culturally rich holiday experience, making it perfect for those who want to enjoy Japan’s holiday traditions without the crowds. The city may not have the big Christmas markets or large-scale festivals, but it excels in its ability to offer visitors a serene escape with winter illuminations, temple visits, and New Year rituals that highlight the beauty of Japanese traditions.

Tsu’s proximity to Nabana no Sato’s grand illuminations and other nearby events also allows visitors to enjoy the best of both worlds — a peaceful base for their stay, while being close enough to explore the region’s more vibrant holiday celebrations.

For travelers seeking a blend of tradition, culture, and peaceful winter beauty, Tsu offers the perfect holiday experience.

Nagasaki joins Utsunomiya, Nara, Himeji, Oita, Takamatsu, and more as top Christmas and New Year travel destinations in Japan, offering magical illuminations and festive events that showcase the country’s vibrant holiday spirit. From grand light displays to traditional New Year rituals, these cities provide a perfect blend of modern celebrations and cultural experiences for travelers.

Japan offers a diverse and magical holiday experience, blending grand illuminations, traditional ceremonies, and serene winter landscapes. From the dazzling lights in Nagasaki and Oita to the tranquil shrine visits in Nara and Tsu, each city provides a unique way to celebrate Christmas and New Year. Whether you’re exploring Himeji’s castle illuminations, enjoying Asahikawa’s snow sculptures, or taking part in traditional Hatsumode shrine visits, Japan’s holiday destinations offer something for everyone.

Travel Tips for Your Holiday Escape:

1. Book Early: Accommodation can fill up fast, especially during New Year’s. Reserve your stay ahead of time.
2. Use Public Transport: Japan’s train system is efficient and perfect for holiday travel. Consider a JR Rail Pass for convenience.
3. Embrace Traditions: Participate in Hatsumode and try seasonal foods like osechi (New Year’s dishes).
4. Dress Warmly: Be prepared for cold weather, especially in northern cities like Asahikawa and Gifu.
5. Check Event Schedules: Confirm dates and times for illuminations and events as they may vary.