Massive Christmas Market Opens at Meiji Shrine Outer Garden

The biggest Christmas event in Japan is back for another festive year. The Tokyo Christmas Market 2023 will open from November 23 to December 25 at the Meiji Shrine Outer Garden, taking the yuletide spirit to a new scenic location.

Details for the Tokyo Christmas Market 2023 at Meiji Shrine Outer Garden:

Key Detail	Information
Event Name	Tokyo Christmas Market 2023 at Meiji Shrine Outer Garden
Dates	November 23 – December 25, 2023
Opening Hours	– First day: 4pm – 9:30pm (L.O. 9pm)  – Other days: 11am – 9:30pm (L.O. 9pm)
Location	Meiji Shrine Outer Garden (Shinjuku area)
Admission Fees	– 11/23-12/22: Adults ¥1,000 (weekdays), ¥1,500 (weekends/holidays); Children ¥500  – 12/23-12/25: Adults ¥2,000; Children ¥1,000
Key Attractions	– 14m tall Christmas Pyramid  – Food, drinks, shopping at 50+ booths  – Live music and performances
Access	– 5 min walk from JR Shinanomachi Station  – 10 min walk from subway stations
More Info	Website
Tickets	Purchase Here

Centered around a towering 14-meter Christmas Pyramid shipped from Germany, the market aims to recreate the traditional holiday markets found across Europe. Over 550,000 people attended last year’s event in Hibiya Park, but with the park undergoing renovations, organizers have secured an even larger area near the famed gingko tree-lined walkway of the outer garden.

Visitors can look forward to sipping mulled wine, munching on German sausages, and shopping for wooden ornaments and decorations at over 50 different booths and huts. The aromatic scent of roast nuts and sweet baked treats like stollen and gingerbread will also fill the cold air. In the evenings, the market sparkles under the glow of twinkling lights and visitors can enjoy live music and dance performances on the main stage.

The centerpiece Christmas Pyramid is decorated with Santa Claus and reindeer motifs that slowly rotate as carousel music plays. It originates from the Ore Mountain region between Germany and the Czech Republic, where candle-lit wooden pyramids were used before Christmas trees became widespread. The 14-meter version towers over the Tokyo market as a stunning photo spot and signature symbol of the event.

In addition to all the shopping and eating, organizers emphasize the market’s role in cultural exchange. They have expanded the scale and international scope substantially this year, with the participation of various regions and organizations. Visitors can expect an even more festive atmosphere that brings a European-flavored Christmas wonderland to the heart of Tokyo.

So if you’re looking for a special way to spend the holiday season, put on your Santa hat and head to the Tokyo Christmas Market 2023 at Meiji Shrine Outer Garden. With authentic ornaments, delectable treats, and good cheer in abundance, this winter wonderland offers Christmas magic for the whole family.