Marunouchi Illumination
Elegant Winter Lights in Tokyo
Venue: Marunouchi Naka-dori Street and the area around Tokyo Station, Tokyo
When: November 13, 2025 - February 15, 2026
Step into a winter wonderland in the heart of Tokyo at the Marunouchi Illumination. Each year from mid-November to mid-February, the sophisticated Marunouchi Naka-dori street, near Tokyo Station, transforms into a breathtaking spectacle of light. Over 250 trees along this 1.2 km promenade are bathed in the warm, elegant glow of eco-friendly, champagne-gold lights.
The magic also extends to Gyoko-dori avenue, which connects the Imperial Palace Outer Garden to Tokyo Station.
During the Christmas season, both avenues become even more festive with Christmas trees, markets, and food trucks. It’s an iconic Tokyo winter experience, offering a truly magical way to enjoy the city nights.
Dates |
November 13, 2025 - February 15, 2026 |
Opening Hours |
4:00 PM - 11:00 PM (4:00 PM - 12:00 AM from Dec 1 to Dec 31) |
Location |
Marunouchi Naka-dori Street and the area around Tokyo Station, Tokyo |
Admission |
Free |
Official Website |
|
Nearest Station |
Tokyo Station, Marunouchi South Exit (Multiple JR Lines, Tokyo Metro Marunouchi Line) |
Organizer |
Mitsubishi Jisho Property Management Co., Ltd. |
The atmosphere at Marunouchi Illumination is one of refined elegance, setting it apart from more boisterous festivals. The main highlight is the leisurely stroll itself, beneath a shimmering canopy of champagne-gold lights. The dazzling display creates a magical, tunnel-like effect, allowing you to fully soak in the stunning scenery and romantic atmosphere.
During the peak Christmas season, the festive spirit gets a boost with charming Christmas markets and food trucks. You can savor special treats like strawberry pudding from The Peninsula Tokyo, folded pizzas, hearty stews, and other warming drinks.
Set in this iconic location right before Tokyo Station, it’s the perfect chance to admire the sophisticated lights and immerse yourself in a truly special Christmas atmosphere.
Marunouchi Illumination is a dream for couples seeking a romantic evening out, offering an ideal backdrop for a memorable date. Its sophisticated and tranquil atmosphere also makes it a fantastic choice for friends wanting a chic night stroll or photographers eager to capture stunning cityscapes.
Families are certainly welcome too. During the Christmas season, kids will be delighted by the food trucks, markets, and special decorations, which are often themed around Disney animations.
The event is exceptionally tourist-friendly. As a primarily visual experience, the beautiful lights transcend any language barrier. Furthermore, the Marunouchi area is relatively international, and you’ll find that some nearby shops and restaurants offer English signage and services. Its universal appeal and easy accessibility from Tokyo Station make it a wonderful, stress-free addition to any traveler’s itinerary.
For a more relaxed experience, visit on a weekday evening, as weekends can get quite crowded, especially leading up to Christmas. The entire stretch is over a kilometer long, so comfortable shoes are a must for a pleasant stroll.
You’ll be taking plenty of photos, so a portable charger is your best friend. While cards are widely accepted in the area, food trucks may not take them, so having a little cash on hand is convenient for enjoying the festive atmosphere.
As the illumination is held during Tokyo’s chilly winter months, dressing warmly is essential for enjoying the outdoor stroll. A stylish coat, scarf, and gloves are highly recommended. While there’s no formal dress code, the area has an upscale vibe, so smart casual attire will help you blend in perfectly. Most importantly, opt for comfortable walking shoes. You’ll be on your feet for a while, and happy feet mean you can fully soak in the magical atmosphere.
Getting to Marunouchi Illumination is a breeze, thanks to its prime location right next to Tokyo Station, one of the city’s biggest transport hubs.
By Train (JR):
The easiest way is to take a JR line to Tokyo Station. Head out of the Marunouchi South Exit, and you’ll find yourself at the start of the illuminated street in just a minute. Since Tokyo Station is a major Shinkansen hub, it’s incredibly convenient if you’re traveling around the country with a JR Pass or Regional Pass.
By Subway:
If you’re using the subway, Tokyo Station is also on the Marunouchi Line. Alternatively, you can use Nijubashimae Station (Chiyoda Line) or Otemachi Station (Marunouchi, Hanzomon lines, etc.), both just a short walk away.
To navigate the train system and find your way with ease, renting a Pocket Wifi is a lifesaver. And to fully enjoy the glittering nights without rushing, why not stay nearby? Check out the options on JapanDen accommodation for hotels in the Marunouchi area.
Once you’ve enjoyed the glittering lights, stick around to explore what the sophisticated Marunouchi area has to offer. It’s packed with stunning architecture, cultural spots, and a wide variety of dining options.
The East Gardens of the Imperial Palace: A peaceful oasis right next to the urban bustle. Stroll through the historic grounds of the former Edo Castle for a dose of nature and tranquility.
Tokyo Station Marunouchi Station Building: The station itself is an iconic landmark. The beautifully restored, red-brick facade is a sight to behold, especially when illuminated at night.
KITTE Garden: For an unbeatable, free view of the Tokyo Station building, head up to the rooftop garden of the KITTE shopping complex. It’s a fantastic photo spot.
Shin-Marunouchi Building: If you’re looking for a place to eat, this building offers a huge variety of dining options with great views, from casual cafes to upscale restaurants.
The Marunouchi area (pictured below) is also a fantastic and convenient place to stay. Use JapanDen accommodation to find a hotel that puts you right in the heart of the action.
As an iconic symbol of Tokyo’s winter, the Marunouchi Illumination stands out for its strong commitment to sustainability. Its signature champagne-gold lights are not just beautiful; they use special eco-friendly LEDs that drastically cut down on power consumption.
This dedication to being both beautiful and environmentally responsible has earned it certification as a “Night View Heritage of Japan.” Often considered Tokyo’s most eco-conscious illumination, it’s a spectacle worth admiring not just for its glow, but for its green credentials too.
To make your winter trip to Tokyo seamless and magical, a little advance planning goes a long way. Here are some resources to help you get everything sorted before you arrive.
Book Your Stay: The holiday season is a peak travel time. Secure a great hotel near the lights by booking early through JapanDen accommodation.
Travel Smart: The event is right at Tokyo Station, making it incredibly easy to access, especially if you’re exploring Japan with a JR Pass or Regional Pass.
Stay Connected: Rent a Pocket Wifi to navigate the city and instantly share your photos. You can also add a SIM card to your pass order at checkout.
Arrive with Ease: For a smooth start to your adventure, a Meet & Greet service can help you get your bearings sorted right from the airport.
Finally, while Marunouchi is very modern and credit cards are widely accepted, it’s always a good idea to carry some cash for smaller vendors like the festive food trucks.
Here are answers to some common questions to help you plan your visit to the Marunouchi Illumination.
Q. Do I need a ticket to see the Marunouchi Illumination?
No, it’s completely free! The event takes place on a public street, so you can just walk up and enjoy the beautiful scenery without any admission fee.
Q. What is the best station for Marunouchi Illumination?
The best and closest station is Tokyo Station. Use the Marunouchi South Exit, and you’ll be at the start of the illumination in just a short walk away.
Q. How much time should I plan for the visit?
A simple stroll from one end to the other takes about 20-30 minutes. However, if you plan to take photos and soak in the atmosphere, we recommend allowing at least an hour.Plus, if you’re visiting during the holiday season to enjoy the Christmas markets, be sure to give yourself extra time.
Q. What are the Marunouchi Illumination 2025 dates?
The official Marunouchi Illumination 2025 dates have been confirmed. The event is scheduled to run from November 13, 2025, to February 15, 2026. It’s always a good idea to double-check the official website for any updates as the event approaches.
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