Marunouchi Illuminations 2024: Bathe in a Sea of Champagne Gold ✨

Get ready to be dazzled! For the 23rd year running, the Marunouchi Illuminations are returning to Tokyo, transforming the city into a breathtaking spectacle of champagne gold. Nearly 286 trees lining the streets, including those in front of Yurakucho Station, will be draped in shimmering lights, with the centerpiece being the 1.2km stretch of Marunouchi Naka-dori.

More Than Just Lights: A Winter Wonderland Awaits 🎄

But the magic doesn’t stop there! From November 14th to December 25th, 2024, Marunouchi Street Park 2024 Winter will take over a 500m section of Marunouchi Naka-dori. Think festive Christmas markets, tempting food trucks, and an atmosphere that’s pure holiday cheer. It’s the perfect place to stroll, savor delicious treats, and soak up the luminous ambiance.

Double the Sparkle: Gyoko-dori Joins the Festivities ⛸️

And for even more winter enchantment, Gyoko-dori, the street connecting Tokyo Station and the Imperial Palace East Garden, will also be illuminated from November 28th to December 25th, 2024. As a special treat, an ice-skating rink will be set up as part of Marunouchi Street Park 2024 Winter, making the entire Marunouchi area, centered around Naka-dori and Gyoko-dori, a true winter paradise.

Eco-Friendly Sparkle: Illuminating with Green Energy ♻️

Since 2002, the Marunouchi Illuminations have been committed to sustainability, using 100% green electricity from renewable sources. So you can enjoy the dazzling display knowing it’s powered by nature.

Whether you’re planning a romantic evening, a family outing, or a fun night with friends, the Marunouchi Illuminations 2024 offer a truly unforgettable experience. Come and create some sparkling memories!

Essential Information: Plan Your Visit 🗺️

Location/Nearest Station:

• Marunouchi Naka-dori: Marunouchi Naka-dori (Tokyo Station / Nijubashimae <Marunouchi> Station / Yurakucho Station)
• Gyoko-dori: Gyoko-dori (Tokyo Station / Nijubashimae <Marunouchi> Station / Otemachi Station)

Venue: Around Tokyo Station and Marunouchi Naka-dori

Dates: November 14th, 2024 – February 16th, 2025

Illumination Hours:

• Generally: 4:00 PM – 11:00 PM
• December 1st – 31st: 4:00 PM – Midnight (planned)
• Some areas may vary.

Official Website: Marunouchi Illuminations

Accommodation: 🛏️ See hotels near Tokyo

Please note that event details are subject to change. Always check the official website for the latest information.

Experience the Magic of Towers Gate Tower Christmas

Get ready to be dazzled! The Towers Gate Tower Christmas returns to Nagoya, bringing with it one of the region’s largest Christmas trees, shining brightly under the theme "The Wonder Gift of Christmas."🎁 This isn’t just any Christmas tree – it’s a vibrant symbol of holiday joy, adorned with a striking red ribbon and illuminated in a breathtaking display of light and color. The "Linear GATE Vision" combined with a corridor of light creates a truly unforgettable spectacle that will surprise and delight.

Nagoya Illumination Feature 2023-2024

This stunning display is easily accessible, located directly at JR Nagoya Station, making it the perfect addition to your holiday plans. Imagine experiencing this magical atmosphere after a day of shopping or sightseeing!

Here’s what you need to know:

• Illumination Hours: 7:00 AM to 11:00 PM (Night version starts at 5:00 PM) Catch the daytime sparkle or the full magic of the nighttime illumination.
• Location: Directly connected to JR "Nagoya" Station – no complicated directions or transfers needed!
• Learn More: https://www.towers.jp/

Planning your visit?

🛏️ Find hotels near the event and make the most of your holiday experience!

✨ Ikeda Park Illumination: Light Up Your November Nights ✨

Get ready to bask in the glow of the 23rd annual Ikeda Park Illumination! Joshokoji, the vibrant Sakae East area (Sakae 4th and 5th Wards), will be transformed into a dazzling wonderland of light, centered around Ikeda Park. This year, the illumination is even more special with two days of exciting events.

🎉 Festive Fun: Two Days of Events 🎉

Friday, November 8th (4:30 PM – 8:30 PM):

• 4:30 PM: Kick off the weekend with a Wine Party! Enjoy all-you-can-drink wine for just ¥500, complemented by delicious food from nearby vendors.
• 5:30 PM: Witness the magic begin at the official Opening and Lighting Ceremony.
• 6:00 PM: Be entertained by a variety of captivating stage performances.
• 8:30 PM: The evening’s festivities come to a close.

Saturday, November 9th (12:30 PM – 3:00 PM):

• 12:30 PM: The day begins with a lively Opening Ceremony.
• 12:45 PM: Unleash your creativity in the Christmas Tree Decoration Competition.
• 1:00 PM: Get ready for some friendly competition with Karaoke, a Bread-Eating Contest, and Random Dance sessions.
• 3:00 PM: The event concludes with the Closing Ceremony and the announcement of the Decoration Competition winners.

✨ Illumination Details ✨

Experience the enchanting lights every night:

• Dates: Starting November 8th, 2024
• Hours: 5:00 PM – 2:00 AM (Lights out at 2:00 AM)
• Venue: Ikeda Park
• Admission: Free!
• Closed Days: None during the illumination period.

📍 Getting There & Contact Information 📍

Ikeda Park is conveniently located an 8-minute walk from both Yabacho Station and Sakae Station on the Nagoya Municipal Subway.

For inquiries, contact the Sakae East Town Development Council:

• General Inquiries: (052)265-9332
• Event Day Contact: 090-4368-4002 or 070-2645-1012
• Fax: (052)265-9332
• Website: http://www.sakaehigashi-mky.jp/index.php/event/2016-2

🛏️ Accommodation 🛏️

Looking for a place to stay? See hotels near the event

🌟 Featured In: 🌟

Nagoya Illumination Feature 2023-2024

Experience the Creative Energy: Suminoe Art Beat 2024 (Sunday, November 10th)

Get ready for a vibrant explosion of art, food, and performance at Suminoe Art Beat 2024! This year, the festival expands beyond the historic Namura Shipbuilding site to include Kitakagaya Park and local businesses, promising a day packed with fun and discovery.

The star of the show? The iconic 9.5-meter-tall Rubber Duck by F. Hofman! This world-traveling inflatable masterpiece is back, and you can grab exclusive duck merchandise available only during the event.

But that’s just the beginning! Suminoe Art Beat offers something for everyone:

• Minna no Uen Festival: Immerse yourself in a delightful market showcasing the best of local food, agriculture, and art.
• Osaka Girls Theater Festival: Witness the talent of Kansai’s all-female theater groups as they compete with captivating short plays.
• Shipyard Site Tour: Step back in time and explore the fascinating history of the former Namura Shipbuilding site.
• Local Artist Exhibitions: Discover the works of talented artists connected to the vibrant Kitakagaya community.

Prepare for a day of artistic immersion, playful exploration, and delicious treats. Suminoe Art Beat 2024 is calling – will you answer?

Event Details:

• Date: Sunday, November 10th, 2024 (Rain or shine)
• Time: 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM
• Locations:
  • Creative Center Osaka (Former Namura Shipbuilding Osaka Factory Site, 4-1-55 Kitakagaya, Suminoe-ku, Osaka City). Approximately a 10-minute walk from Exit 4 of Kitakagaya Station on the OsakaMetro Yotsubashi Line.
  • Kitakagaya Park (5-3 Kitakagaya, Suminoe-ku, Osaka City)
• Important Travel Information: Expect high traffic volume around the venue and surrounding roads. Public transport is strongly recommended.
• Admission: Free!
• Contact: [email protected]
• Website: https://suminoeartbeat.wixsite.com/home

🛏️ Find hotels near the event

Step into the Tale of Genji: Morimura’s Stunning Yamato-e Exhibition

Prepare to be transported to the elegant world of Heian-era Japan! The Morimura Memorial Museum of Yamato-e proudly presents "Yoshitaka Morimura: Reconstruction of the Tale of Genji Scroll Exhibition," showcasing 19 breathtaking sections of the iconic scroll. These meticulously restored paintings, complete with calligraphy on ornate paper, bring the classic story vividly to life. Don’t miss this opportunity to experience the beauty and artistry of Yamato-e firsthand! ✨

Adding to the allure, the exhibition also features Yamato-e works by Yoshitaka Morimura available for purchase, allowing you to take a piece of this captivating art form home with you.

Bonus Exhibitions – Triple the Art!

Alongside the Genji exhibition, immerse yourself in the vibrant creativity of three simultaneous showcases:

• Toko-gajuku Exhibition: Explore the works of the Morimura Museum’s own Yamato-e school, Toko-gajuku. Toko-gajuku
• Murase Calligraphy School Exhibition: Discover the beauty and precision of Japanese calligraphy. Murase Calligraphy School
• Hokkeji Flower Arranging Joint Exhibition: Experience the artistry of traditional Japanese flower arranging. Hokkeji Flower Arranging

Plan Your Visit: Nagoya Yamato-e Museum (Morimura Memorial Hall)

Dedicated to showcasing the beauty of Yamato-e, the Morimura Memorial Hall offers a tranquil escape in the heart of the city. The museum focuses on Yamato-e’s unique portrayal of the four seasons, offering a glimpse into traditional Japanese aesthetics. Enjoy a moment of serenity in the first-floor tea room (included with admission!), and discover a range of enriching classes in Japanese painting (Yamato-e), tea ceremony, calligraphy, and flower arranging.

Learn More About the Museum

🛏️ Find Hotels Near the Event

Hours: 10:30 AM – 5:00 PM
Venue: Beauty of Wa Museum Morimura Memorial Hall
Admission: 1,000 yen (includes tea)
Phone: 052-971-0456
Access:

• Subway Higashiyama Line/Meijo Line: 3-minute walk from Sakae Station Exit 4.
• Subway Meijo Line/Sakura-dori Line: 3-minute walk from Hisaya-odori Station Exit 7.

Experience the Magic of Autumn at Showa Kinen Park

Immerse yourself in the vibrant hues of fall at Showa Kinen Park’s Yellow Leaves & Autumn Leaves Festival and Autumn Night Walk. Crisp air, fiery foliage, and enchanting illuminations await you. Whether you prefer a daytime stroll amidst colorful trees or a magical evening bathed in light, Showa Kinen Park has the perfect autumn experience for you.

Discover Your Autumn Oasis

During the Yellow Leaves & Autumn Leaves Festival, explore the park’s numerous foliage hotspots. Find your perfect spot to relax and savor the beauty of the season. From golden gingko trees to crimson maples, every corner of the park offers a unique autumnal vista.

Wander Through an Illuminated Wonderland

As dusk descends, the Autumn Night Walk unveils a different kind of magic. The "Katara no Icho Namiki" (Ginkgo Avenue of Conversations) glows with a golden aura, while the reflections of the illuminated night scenery dance on the water’s surface in the "Japanese Garden." Follow the park paths, adorned with captivating light displays, and feel transported to another world.

Event Details

• Location: Showa Kinen Park
• Nearest Stations: Nishi-Tachikawa, Tachikawa, Tachikawa-Kita
• Address: 3173 Midoricho, Tachikawa City, Tokyo 〒190-0014
• Map
• Autumn Night Walk Area: Select areas including the Japanese Garden and Katara no Icho Namiki.
• Dates: November 2nd – December 1st, 2024
• Park Hours: 9:30 AM – 9:00 PM (Lights out at 8:30 PM)
• Illumination Period: November 2nd – December 1st, 2024
• Illumination Hours: 4:30 PM – 8:30 PM (Free admission to the Japanese Garden on October 31st and November 1st during pre-illumination.)
• Admission:
  • Adults (High School and above): ¥450
  • Children (Junior High and below): Free
  • Seniors (65 and older): ¥210
  • Separate fees apply for the Japanese Garden after 4:30 PM.
• Contact: 042-528-1751
• Rain or Shine Event

Important Note: Event details are subject to change. Please visit the official website for the latest information.

🛏️ Find Hotels Near Tokyo

Get Ready for the Taiwan Taichung Night Market 2024! 🎉

Get ready for a taste of Taiwan in the heart of Nagoya! The Taiwan Taichung Night Market returns for its fifth year, bringing even more delicious food, exciting performances, and vibrant culture to Hisaya Odori Park. This year’s event promises to be bigger and better than ever, celebrating five years of partnership between Nagoya City and Taichung City.

From November 1st to 4th, experience the bustling atmosphere of a Taiwanese night market, with booths overflowing with Taichung’s famous street food, sweet treats, and unique merchandise. Discover new favorites and revisit classics as you explore the diverse culinary offerings.

But that’s not all! Immerse yourself in Taiwanese culture with captivating folk dances and mini-live performances on stage. This year’s event features enhanced stage performances and decorations to mark the 5th anniversary, making it a truly special celebration. Join us as we commemorate this milestone together!

What awaits you:

• Authentic Taichung Cuisine: Indulge in a wide array of delicious Taiwanese street food and sweets.
• Unique Merchandise: Discover one-of-a-kind souvenirs and treasures from Taichung.
• Tourism Information: Explore travel opportunities in both Nagoya and Taichung.
• Airline Promotions: Learn about exciting travel deals and destinations.
• Vibrant Performances: Enjoy captivating stage performances, including folk dances and live music.
• Special 5th Anniversary Celebrations: Experience enhanced decorations and performances.

Event Details:

• Dates & Times:
  • November 1st (Fri): 4:00 PM – 9:00 PM (limited booths open)
  • November 2nd (Sat): 12:00 PM – 9:00 PM (Opening Ceremony at 4:00 PM)
  • November 3rd (Sun/Holiday): 12:00 PM – 9:00 PM
  • November 4th (Mon/Holiday): 12:00 PM – 8:00 PM
• Location: Hisaya Odori Park, Edion Hisaya Hiroba (1-minute walk from Yabacho Station on the Meijo Subway Line)
• Admission: Free (Food and merchandise are at your own expense)
• Rain or Shine: The event will be held regardless of weather.

Plan your visit:

• Homepage: https://kato-hidehiko.asia/taichung-yeshi/
• Accommodation: 🛏️ View hotels near the event

Don’t miss this fantastic opportunity to experience the vibrant culture and delicious flavors of Taichung!

Yakiimo Fest®︎ TOKYO 2024: A Sweet Potato Paradise

Get Ready for a Sweet Potato Extravaganza at Nakano Shiki no Mori Park!

This autumn, prepare your taste buds for an unforgettable culinary experience at Yakiimo Fest®︎, held in the beautiful Nakano Shiki no Mori Park. This isn’t just another food festival; it’s a celebration of all things sweet potato, showcasing the creativity and innovation of vendors pushing the boundaries of baked sweet potato cuisine.

From classic comfort food to exciting new creations, Yakiimo Fest®︎ offers a delicious journey for every palate. Whether you’re a seasoned sweet potato aficionado or a curious newcomer, there’s something to delight you every single day of the festival.

A Feast for the Senses:

This year’s lineup is packed with mouthwatering treats, from traditional baked sweet potatoes to innovative dishes that will surprise and delight. Here’s a sneak peek at some of the highlights:

• Returning Favorites: Indulge in the ever-popular "Direct from the farm! Aged Beni Haruka & Silk Sweet (The 3rd.Shibuya × Dried Sweet Potato Farm Kawakami)," a Yakiimo Fest®️ staple. Cool down with the returning "Aged Honey Baked Sweet Potato Smoothie (Smoothie & Bowl TUNE)," now available both hot and iced!
• Brand New Creations: Prepare to be amazed by the "Whole Baked Sweet Potato Rice Cracker (Shiawase no Wagon)," a show-stopping creation inspired by "Takosen," the giant octopus rice cracker.
• Savory Sensations: Craving something savory? Try the "Sweet Potato Sweet and Sour Pork (Hong Kong Dim Sum Restaurant)," a delicious twist on a classic Asian dish.
• Sweet Indulgences: Don’t miss the "Salted Butter Brulee Baked Sweet Potato (Romantic Baked Sweet Potato Imo no Su)," a delectable blend of sweet brulee, salty butter, and rock salt.
• And More! This year, the festival even features alcoholic beverages, perfect for complementing your sweet potato treats.

Event Details:

• Location: Nakano Shiki no Mori Park Event Area, Nakano 4-13, Nakano-ku, Tokyo 164-0001 MAP
• Nearest Station: Nakano Station
• Dates: November 1st (Fri) – November 10th (Sun), 2024
• Time: Weekdays: 11:00 AM – 7:00 PM, Weekends/Holidays: 10:00 AM – 7:00 PM
• Admission: Free (Food and drink prices vary; Cashless payment ONLY)
• Website: https://yakiimofes.jp/

Plan Your Visit:

• 🛏️ Find hotels near Tokyo

Please note that event details are subject to change. Check the official website for the latest information.

✨ Immerse Yourself in a Festive Planetarium Wonderland This Christmas ✨

Experience the Illumination Welcome Dome: A Dazzling Prelude to the Stars

This Christmas season, enhance your planetarium visit with a breathtaking pre-show experience: the Illumination Welcome Dome. Step inside and be transported to a magical winter landscape, where a radiant tree of light twinkles beneath a blanket of falling snow and a starry sky. This 5-10 minute immersive display sets a festive mood before the main feature begins. Feel free to capture the enchantment – photos and videos are welcome!

Making the Most of Your Visit

To fully enjoy the Illumination Welcome Dome, arrive shortly after the dome opens for your scheduled show. The pre-show runs for 5-10 minutes before the main feature begins. Arriving just before the main feature start time may mean missing this festive spectacle. Please note that not all shows include the Illumination Welcome Dome.

Event Details

• Dates: November 1st, 2024 (Fri) – December 25th, 2024 (Wed)

• Price: Included with your planetarium show ticket.

• Showtimes: Vary by location. Check the official website for specific times.

• Participating Locations:

  • Konica Minolta Planetaria TOKYO (Yurakucho / Ginza Station)
  • Konica Minolta Planetarium Manten in Sunshine City (Higashi-Ikebukuro / Ikebukuro Station)
  • Konica Minolta Planetarium Tenku in Tokyo Skytree Town® (Oshiage ‘Skytree-mae’ / Tokyo Skytree Station)
  • Konica Minolta Planetaria YOKOHAMA (Yokohama / Shin-Takashima Station)

• Official Website (for show eligibility and times): https://planetarium.konicaminolta.jp/event/illumination/?rl=241022%5Fall%5Fillumination

• Accommodation: 🛏️ See hotels near Tokyo

Please note: Event details are subject to change. Always refer to the official venue/organizer website for the latest information.