December 2025 Events in Japan

Minō Momiji Festival

Get the most out of Autumn with a trip to the Minō Momiji Festival.

Naha Marathon 2025

A "festival of sun, ocean and joggers" that is one of Japan's premier long-distance road races.

Atami Marine Sea Fireworks Festival 2025

The Atami Marine Fireworks have been lighting up the east coast of the Izu Peninsula since 1952.

Maple Leaves Forest at Kobe Municipal Arboretum

Discover Kobe’s Forest Botanical Garden this autumn for stunning foliage displays, guided Maple Walk tours, and the captivating “Lighting Up the Maple” illumination event.

Mineral Capital Osaka

If your winter needs a little sparkle, Mineral Capital Osaka is where you can browse and buy dazzling gems.

Nijō Autumn Harvest Festival 2025

Get ready for real and virtual autumn flowers at Kyoto's most iconic castle.

Rurikō-in Temple Autumn Opening

Escape the madding crowds. Experience the serene beauty of Rurikō-in Temple during its autumn special viewing period.

Himeji Castle Light-up

The event is free and will consist of LED lights, projection mapping, ball-shaped lanterns, and a water mirror.

Kōdai-ji Zen Temple Autumn Illuminations

Experience the enchanting autumn night illumination at Kodai-ji Temple, Kyoto. Wander through beautifully lit gardens with stunning autumn leaves.

Kasuga Wakamiya On-Matsuri

A traditional Japanese festival with roots tracing back to the 12th Century.

Osaka Christmas Market

Spend some time with Christmas cheer at this traditional market.

Twinkle Jōyō Illumination

Explore dazzling illuminations at southern Kyoto's Twinkle Jōyō Light Pageant.

Hakodate Christmas Fantasy

For a magical Christmas event that all the family can enjoy, head over to Hakodate Christmas Fantasy.

Fukuoka Christmas Market and Illuminations

Spend your Christmas wrapped up in the midst of the beautiful Fukuoka Christmas Market and Illuminations.

Glover Garden Night Illumination

Get your dose of local history while also enjoying pretty nighttime illuminations.

Nankinmachi Lantern Fair

Kobe's China Town comes alight with dozens of lanterns.

Sendai Pageant of Starlight

See Sendai's most beautiful sights under the radiant illuminations.

Sagano Romantic Train Light-Up in Kyoto

Ride the Sagano Romantic Train in winter and enjoy the festive light-up.

Ramen Expo 2025

Taste the depth of Japan's ramen experiences here

Huis Ten Bosch New Year Countdown

Celebrate the new year in extravagant style at this (literally!) star-studded event

Kobe Countdown Drone Show

Celebrate New Year’s Eve at Kobe Fruit Flower Park with a drone light show, live music, and vibrant illuminations.

Bad-Mouthing Festival

This bizarre New Year's Eve ritual, dating back to the Edo period, lets participants shout away their frustrations while trekking to the temple summit.

Okera Mairi: Old Year’s Eve at Yasaka-jinja Shrine

Want to ensure peace and prosperity for the new year? You might have to stay up all night.

No Limit! Christmas at Universal Studios Japan

The whole of USJ will get a blanket of festive fun. Expect cheery decorations and a massive show under the impressive 30-meter-tall glowing Christmas tree.