How to Celebrate Christmas in Tokyo
As the festive season approaches, Tokyo transforms into a dazzling wonderland adorned with twinkling lights, festive decorations and a palpable sense of holiday cheer. Celebrating Christmas in Tokyo is a unique and enchanting experience that seamlessly blends traditional Japanese customs with the joyous spirit of the season. In this article, you will learn about the city’s festive traditions, must-visit attractions and delightful activities that make this time of the year truly special. From glittering illuminations to seasonal delicacies and cultural celebrations, discover how Tokyo warmly embraces the holiday season, creating a magical tapestry of Christmas festivities against the backdrop of this vibrant metropolis.
Immerse yourself in the city’s festive spirit while staying at our hotels, THE LIVELY TOKYO AZABUJUBAN, HOTEL GRAPHY NEZU or The Millennial Shibuya, which fully embrace the holiday season with a cozy atmosphere and exciting Christmas events. Our dedicated staff is committed to ensuring that your stay is not only comfortable but also filled with the joy and warmth that define the holiday season. Make this Christmas truly special by choosing our Tokyo hotels as your home away from home, where the magic of the season comes to life in the heart of this vibrant and festive city.
Click the button below to book your stay at THE LIVELY TOKYO AZABUJUBAN.
Click the button below to book your stay at HOTEL GRAPHY NEZU.
Click the button below to book your stay at The Millennials Shibuya.
Click the button below to book your stay at HOTEL GRAPHY SHIBUYA.
Enjoy Winter Illuminations
As the temperature drops in Tokyo, the city comes alive with a radiant and magical display of winter illuminations. Venture into the heart of this metropolis, and you’ll find yourself immersed in a captivating world of sparkling lights, vibrant colors and festive cheer. From the iconic shopping districts like Ginza and Shibuya to the serene parks and historical landmarks, Tokyo transforms into a dazzling spectacle after sunset. One of the must-visit spots for winter illuminations is Roppongi Hills, where the entire district sparkles with an array of lights, creating a whimsical atmosphere. The Tokyo Midtown Illuminations, with its artful displays and themed decorations, transport visitors to a winter wonderland. In Shibuya, witness the famous Shibuya Blue Cave, a tunnel of enchanting blue lights that adds a touch of magic to the bustling streets. These luminous displays not only illuminate the cityscape but also evoke a sense of warmth and joy during the chilly winter nights. Whether you’re strolling through the illuminated avenues hand in hand or capturing the picturesque scenes with your camera, Tokyo’s winter illuminations promise an unforgettable and visually stunning experience that captures the essence of the season.
Visit Tokyo Disneyland and Tokyo DisneySea
Celebrating Christmas at Tokyo Disneyland or DisneySea is a magical experience that transports visitors into a winter wonderland filled with enchantment and festive cheer. The parks undergo a dazzling transformation, adorned with millions of twinkling lights, ornate decorations and iconic Disney-themed holiday displays. Main Street U.S.A. and other park areas come alive with the spirit of the season, creating an atmosphere of joy and merriment. Special Christmas parades and shows, featuring beloved Disney characters donned in holiday attire, captivate audiences of all ages. Spectacularly themed Christmas trees, illuminated with vibrant colors, serve as focal points for stunning photo opportunities. DisneySea, with its nautical charm, takes on a unique yuletide ambiance, making it a distinctive destination for Christmas revelry. Visitors can indulge in seasonal treats, including festive snacks and holiday-themed meals, adding a culinary delight to the festive experience. You also have the chance to meet Santa Claus and share holiday wishes. Visiting these amusement parks is a heartwarming way to embrace the spirit of the season with a touch of Disney magic.
Feast on Christmas Cakes
In Tokyo, celebrating Christmas often involves a delicious and festive tradition – enjoying a Christmas cake. The Christmas cake tradition has its roots in Japan’s post-war era when the country embraced Western customs. Over time, it has become an integral part of the holiday season, and Tokyo, with its vibrant culinary scene, offers an array of delightful Christmas cakes for locals and visitors alike. These Christmas cakes are not just ordinary desserts; they are intricately designed and beautifully decorated, often resembling winter scenes, snowflakes, or even beloved characters. From traditional flavors like strawberry shortcake to innovative creations featuring matcha or chestnut, Tokyo’s patisseries showcase their culinary prowess during the holiday season. Sharing a slice of Christmas cake with loved ones has become a cherished tradition, symbolizing joy, togetherness, and the sweet moments of the holiday season. At THE LIVELY BAR in THE LIVELY TOKYO AZABUJUBAN, you can book a special accommodation plan where you can enjoy exclusive Christmas cocktails and a Christmas cake from the popular French pastry shop Lupomie in Azabujuban. Indulge in the pairing of the rich chocolate and the banana Christmas cake, Chocolate Banana Whole Cake, and the elegant cocktail, Leonardo, featuring the sweet and sour flavor of strawberries.
Participate in Christmas Events
Check out local event listings for Christmas-themed markets, concerts and festivals. Some neighborhoods host Christmas markets with stalls selling festive goods, seasonal treats and handmade crafts. It’s an excellent opportunity to experience Japanese interpretations of Christmas traditions. Attending a Christmas concert or performance adds a cultural touch to the celebrations, with various venues hosting seasonal shows, from classical performances to contemporary interpretations of Christmas classics. The Millennials Shibuya will host a Christmas-themed Drag Show on December 22nd for fans of drag, guests at the hotel, and those in Tokyo who want to spend Christmas with a welcoming and entertaining community.
Go Ice Skating
Ice skating in Tokyo during Christmas adds a delightful twist to the festive celebrations. Despite Tokyo’s milder winter climate, several outdoor and indoor ice skating rinks pop up across the city, creating a charming and seasonally-appropriate activity for locals and visitors alike. One of the iconic locations for ice skating is Tokyo Midtown’s outdoor rink. Nestled amid the skyscrapers of Roppongi, this rink offers a picturesque setting with views of the surrounding cityscape. The twinkling lights and festive decorations create a magical ambiance, making it a popular spot for couples and families to enjoy some seasonal fun. Another notable venue is the Tokyo Skytree Solamachi Ice Skating Park. Located in the bustling Sumida Ward, this outdoor rink provides a unique experience with the iconic Tokyo Skytree as a backdrop. Skaters can glide on the ice while taking in breathtaking views of the city’s skyline. Many of these ice skating venues incorporate holiday-themed decorations and occasionally host special events like Christmas Eve parties or live performances. Skating under the twinkling lights and seasonal décor adds a touch of winter wonder to the Christmas experience in Tokyo.
In Tokyo, Christmas is a time for joy, lights, and creating memorable moments. Whether you prefer a traditional celebration or a more modern and unique experience, Tokyo offers a diverse range of activities to make your Christmas in the metropolis truly special. Book a stay at one of our hotels to truly enjoy the fun of spending Christmas in Tokyo.
THE LIVELY TOKYO AZABUJUBAN crafts a luxurious lifestyle with 62 elegant rooms and attractive facilities including a rooftop bar with a great atmosphere.
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A little urban oasis located in the heart of Yanesen and near Ueno station. This hostel-like space is the perfect place to come together and take a break from busy Tokyo.
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The Millennials Shibuya is the ultimate high-tech capsule hotel experience. 6-min walk from Shibuya Station. 120 SmartPod units, IoT integration, futuristic design, and coworking spaces.
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Opening in March 2024, discover SHIBUYA BRIDGE and Daikanyama at this hostel hotel on historical grounds of the retired elevated railway, once part of the Tokyu Toyoko line linking Shibuya & Daikanyama underground.
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