Text by MOOK Scenic Spots compiled and reported
Whether in manga or Japanese dramas, seeing the protagonists walking down a dazzling street of lights on a cold winter night creates a truly romantic atmosphere. Both Tokyo’s “Marunouchi Illumination” and Osaka’s “Light up the Sky” are stunning illumination events in Japan during winter.
The dazzling street of lights on a cold winter night in Tokyo creates a truly romantic atmosphere. (Photo / Marunouchi.com)
Marunouchi Illumination 2018
“Marunouchi Illumination 2018” lit up the streets of Chiyoda Ward, Tokyo from November 8, 2018 to February 17, 2019. The event covered areas such as Marunouchi Nakadori, Tokyo Station vicinity, and Otemachi Nakadori, all offering the magical glow of winter nights.
“Marunouchi Illumination 2018” at Marunouchi Nakadori in Chiyoda Ward, Tokyo. (Photo / Marunouchi.com)
Along the approximately 1.2-kilometer stretch of Marunouchi Nakadori, over 200 roadside trees were adorned with 1 million LED bulbs, elegantly glowing in the “champagne gold” hues unique to Marunouchi. Especially in December, the lighting hours are extended to bring a warm and romantic Christmas ambiance.
The streets elegantly shine in Marunouchi’s signature “champagne gold.” (Photo / Marunouchi.com)
The bulbs used consume 65% less electricity on average compared to previous years, while newer energy-saving LED bulbs have further reduced power usage by 30%. They maintain brightness and brilliance while being eco-friendly, utilizing green energy sources like solar and wind power. In 2016, the event was recognized as one of Japan’s “Night View Heritage Sites,” allowing you to enjoy Tokyo’s unique winter night scenery over these 100+ days.
Event Dates: November 8, 2018 (Thursday) – February 17, 2019 (Sunday)
Illumination Hours: 5:30 PM – 11:00 PM
※ In December, illumination runs from 5:00 PM – 12:00 AM
Event Locations: Marunouchi Nakadori, Tokyo Station vicinity, Otemachi Nakadori
Osaka Light up the Sky 2018
Osaka Light up the Sky 2018 consists of two major parts: the Midosuji Illumination and Osaka Light Renaissance.
Midosuji Illumination (Midosuji Illumination
The iconic Midosuji Illumination avenue in Osaka will be lit up brilliantly from Umeda to Namba, spanning a 4 km stretch — a world-class light avenue that was recognized by the Guinness World Records in 2015 as the longest illumination street. It celebrated its 10th anniversary at the end of 2018.
Midosuji Illumination Avenue. (Photo / Osaka Tourism Authority)
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