20 Awesome Ideas for Celebrating Christmas in Tokyo

Celebrating Christmas in Tokyo is a unique and enchanting experience, blending traditional Japanese culture with modern festive flair. From romantic illuminations to special holiday dining, Tokyo offers a plethora of activities to make your Christmas unforgettable.

1. Experience Winter Illuminations

Tokyo's winter illuminations are a must-see during the holiday season. These displays begin in mid-November and last until early February, but for the best Christmas experience, visit between mid-November and December 25th. Some standout locations include:

Roppongi Hills Illumination: A grand display of thousands of lights in the heart of Tokyo.
Shibuya Sky Sparkling View: Features a Sparkling Balloon Corridor and stunning city views from the 46th floor.
Hibiya Magic Time Illumination: Offers champagne gold and amber lights, creating a warm and relaxing atmosphere.

2. Visit Christmas Markets

Tokyo's Christmas markets are inspired by European traditions and offer a festive shopping experience:

Tokyo Christmas Market: Typically set up in Shiba Park or Hibiya Park, featuring German-inspired goods, food, and live concerts.
Yokohama Red Brick Warehouse: Includes a skating rink and is inspired by the Nuremberg market.
Roppongi Hills Christmas Market: Another German-inspired market with a variety of festive goods.

3. Enjoy a Romantic Date

Christmas in Japan is often celebrated as a romantic holiday, making it perfect for couples:

Miyashita Park, Tokyo: A charming park with beautiful views and a romantic atmosphere.
Shibuya Sky, Tokyo: Offers panoramic views of the city, ideal for a romantic evening.
Yokohama Minato Mirai, Kanagawa: A scenic waterfront area perfect for a romantic stroll.

4. Try Seasonal Desserts

Indulge in Japan's unique seasonal desserts and drinks:

Christmas Cakes: Traditional sponge cake with cream and strawberries, decorated with Christmas motifs. Popular bakeries include Fujiya, Daimaru Tokyo, and Patisserie Coco Ange.
Seasonal Drinks: Enjoy chestnut and sweet potato-based drinks, which are popular during the winter season.

5. Have an American-Style Christmas Dinner

For those missing a taste of home, Tokyo offers several American-style restaurants:

Soul Food House, Tokyo: Known for its traditional American Christmas dinner.
Bubby’s, Tokyo: Offers a festive dining experience with American cuisine.

6. Attend Special Holiday Events

Tokyo hosts various special events during the holiday season:

Shibuya Scramble Xmas: Includes events, shopping, and special exhibitions at Shibuya Scramble Square.
Christmas Cheer at The Prince Gallery Tokyo Kioicho: Features activities like creating your own Christmas tree ornaments and special hotel plans.

7. Explore Festive Hotel Offerings

Several luxury hotels in Tokyo offer special holiday packages and events:

Four Seasons Hotel Tokyo at Otemachi: Offers a holiday-themed afternoon tea and unique seasonal beverages.
Mandarin Oriental, Tokyo: Presents a "Height of Celebration" package with perks like daily breakfast and spa credits.
Grand Hyatt Tokyo: Known for its festive brunches and dinners at the French Kitchen.

8. Visit Illuminated Landmarks

Several landmarks in Tokyo are decked out in festive lights:

Tokyo Skytree Town: Features an eight-meter Christmas tree and an ice skating park.
Omohara no Mori: Offers a warm and relaxing illumination on the rooftop of Tokyu Hands Omotesando.

9. Go Ice Skating

Enjoy ice skating at various locations in Tokyo:

Tokyo Skytree Town Ice Skating Park: Open until early March.
Yokohama Red Brick Warehouse Ice Skating Rink: Part of the Christmas market festivities.

10. Celebrate with Fireworks

Catch a fireworks display over the Rainbow Bridge in Odaiba Park:

Fireworks Show: Takes place every Saturday in December at 7 p.m..

11. Visit a Buddhist Temple for New Year's

While not directly related to Christmas, visiting a Buddhist temple for New Year's is a unique Japanese tradition:

Zojoji Temple: Known for its 108 chimes, the Joya no kane, near Tokyo Tower.
Sensoji Temple: Located in the Asakusa neighborhood, another popular spot for New Year's celebrations.

12. Join Street Parties

Participate in lively street parties to celebrate the holiday season:

Shibuya Crosswalk: A popular spot for New Year's Eve celebrations.
Tokyo Tower: Gather with others to see the change of date on the facade of the building.

13. Shop for Limited-Edition Items

Take advantage of special holiday shopping events:

Shibuya Scramble Xmas Market: Offers limited-edition items and special lotteries.
Yokohama Red Brick Warehouse Christmas Market: Features seasonal goods and food stalls.

14. Create Your Own Christmas Ornaments

Engage in festive activities at luxury hotels:

The Prince Gallery Tokyo Kioicho: Allows guests to create their own Christmas tree ornaments.

15. Enjoy a Traditional Japanese Christmas Dinner

Try unique Japanese Christmas traditions:

Kentucky Fried Chicken: A popular Christmas dinner choice in Japan, often reserved months in advance.

16. Explore Unique Illumination Themes

Discover various themed illuminations around Tokyo:

Baccarat Eternal Lights Illumination at Yebisu Garden Place: Features one of the world’s largest Baccarat chandeliers.
Twinkle Color Christmas at Shinjuku Southern Terrace: Includes fantastical “Mirrorbowler” mirror balls and a Christmas tree.

17. Attend a Special Exhibition

Visit special exhibitions during the holiday season:

Shibuya Sky: Features an art exhibition layered onto the Tokyo skyline.

18. Indulge in Luxury Afternoon Tea

Experience luxurious holiday-themed afternoon tea:

Four Seasons Hotel Tokyo at Otemachi: Offers intricately crafted desserts and unique seasonal beverages.

19. Participate in Seasonal Workshops

Join in festive workshops and activities:

Tokyo Christmas Market: Includes live concerts and workshops.

20. Customize Your Holiday Experience

Hire a private car tour to explore Tokyo's holiday attractions at your own pace:

Private Car Tour: Allows you to customize your itinerary to visit the most interesting holiday spots in Tokyo.