The annual Christmas season is approaching, and light-up events have begun across Japan, filling the streets with a romantic winter atmosphere~ This time, we’ve selected 7 must-visit illumination spots in the Kansai region. Don’t miss them if you’re interested!
✨Osaka・Festival of the Light
Image Source: ©大阪・光の饗宴実行委員会 All Right Reserved.
Stretching about 4 kilometers from Umeda Hanshin to Namba West Exit, Midosuji Avenue transforms into a dreamy boulevard of lights! Whether driving through or strolling beneath the sparkling illuminations, you can feel the full Christmas spirit. In addition, from December 14 to 25, a Christmas market will be held at Nakanoshima, offering crafts, accessories, and delicious food—creating a lively and festive atmosphere!
- Official Website
- Event Period：From November 3, 2025 to January 31, 2026
✨Umeda Sky Garden Observatory
Image Source: ©Sekisui House Umeda Operation Co.,Ltd.
A 25-meter-tall Christmas tree will be set up in the first-floor plaza, adorned with approximately 130,000 lights that sparkle and change with the music—romance level max! Starting in December, themed performances and a Christmas market will also be held, offering warm treats like mulled wine and soups. Enjoy the festive atmosphere in the heart of winter~
Winter activities are also held on the observation deck, including a limited seasonal menu and stargazing events—don’t miss them! For more details, check it out here！
- Official Website
- Event Period：From November 14 to December 25, 2025
✨Winter Illumination in Namba
Every winter, the area around Namba Station transforms with its romantic illumination event. Once you arrive at Namba Parks, colorful lights sparkle throughout the mall, creating dazzling displays that capture your attention at every turn. Each glowing light brightens the night, adding a warm and magical touch to Namba’s winter evenings.
This year’s event even incorporates an AR (augmented reality) experience. By putting on AR glasses, visitors can enjoy an enhanced view of the night sky and dynamic light effects, as if stepping into a futuristic nighttime adventure.
- Official Website
- Event Period：From November 7, 2025 to February 15, 2026
✨Osaka Castle
Image Source: © PR TIMES Corporation All Rights Reserved.
This year’s Osaka Castle illumination event features the theme “Toyotomi’s Dream: Unification of the Nation.” The dazzling displays recreate the ornate armor of six legendary warlords, immersing visitors in a rich historical atmosphere.
In addition, the newly introduced “Osaka Landmark Series” showcases iconic symbols such as Tsutenkaku Tower, Dotonbori, shrines, and even takoyaki-shaped lights, creating a dreamy nightscape filled with the unique charm of Osaka.
- Official Website
- Event Period：From November 1, 2025 to February 1, 2026
✨Abeno HARUKAS 300 Observatory
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The Abeno Observatory will host a winter illumination event during this period! On the 16th-floor outdoor garden, visitors can enjoy the night view along with subtly glowing light spheres, a highlight of the experience. Each floor is decorated with its own unique theme, making it a must-visit for anyone heading to Osaka~
- Event Period：From October 31, 2025 to February 28, 2026
✨Universal Studios Japan
Every winter, Universal Studios Japan hosts a variety of festive shows. Enjoy warm seasonal treats at the Christmas market full of international flair, or immerse yourself in exciting holiday performances for a truly “happiest” Christmas experience. Beloved characters like Snoopy, Charlie Brown, and Hello Kitty will make special appearances throughout the park!
In addition to spectacular fireworks, don’t miss the limited-time Hogwarts™ Magical Night – Winter Magic projection show. With a Christmas market filled with adorable characters and exclusive seasonal menus, Universal Studios Japan is the perfect place to soak up the festive holiday spirit!
- Official Website
- Event Period：From November 19, 2025 to January 4, 2026
✨Kobe Nunobiki Herb Gardens & Ropeway
Image Source: © Kobe Resort Service Co., Ltd. All Rights Reserved.
Take the cable car up to the mountain at about 400 meters above sea level, where over 200 varieties of flowers are in bloom! The park also hosts a German Festival, offering authentic German food and goods. When you need a break, head to the observation deck to enjoy a panoramic view of Kobe’s nightscape~
- Official Website
- Event Period：From November 8 to December 25, 2025
This winter, be sure to soak up the cozy and magical Christmas vibes in Japan!
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