Osaka’s Must-See Christmas and New Year Light Spectaculars Bring Festive Cheer to the City

By MOOK Scenic Spots Travel Life Network, Zhang Yingying

As the year draws to a close, Japan is filled with a strong Christmas atmosphere, especially with vibrant light festivals that decorate streets and scenic spots with dazzling illuminations. The long-running Osaka Light Renaissance (OSAKA光のルネサンス) has grown over the years, and in recent times, the even larger-scale Osaka Light Festival (大阪0?猡西涎纾), now in its second year, has become a major highlight. In addition to the two major themed light events under the Osaka Light Festival (OSAKA光のルネサンス2014, Midosuji Illumination 2014) and a total of eleven light-up activities, various districts and shopping malls across Osaka also join in with spectacular light decorations. December is the perfect time to visit Osaka and immerse yourself in the joyful ambiance of Christmas and New Year celebrations among these illuminated sights.

Osaka Castle

Osaka Castle is one of the must-visit attractions for anyone traveling to Osaka. While it is usually a popular daytime sightseeing spot, in December it gets festive light decorations and a 3D projection light show, making it spectacular even at night. The light show, which starts every thirty minutes in the evening, is truly magnificent. The illuminated area within Osaka Castle Park is also a highlight, featuring vast seas of lights. The Osaka Guest House also offers a light and music show, synchronizing soft or dynamic music with changing lights and fountains to win enthusiastic applause from the audience. This event runs until March 1, 2015, so visitors to Osaka during this period can enjoy it.

Video of the Osaka Castle Guest House light show

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