Last updated on October 23, 2026 by Krysti
I’ll be honest: I wasn’t expecting Japan’s Christmas markets to impress me – but they absolutely did!
Christmas has always been my favorite holiday, so when I moved to Japan, I was worried that I’d miss out on the festive atmosphere that I love so much.
Thankfully, that wasn’t the case at all. Not only does Japan celebrate Christmas, but they go all out for their Christmas markets!
From dazzling illuminations and towering Christmas trees to charming wooden stalls and delicious seasonal treats, Japan’s Christmas markets are the definition of festive!
In fact, I enjoyed my first Christmas market so much that it’s since become an annual tradition.
Every year, I drag my husband to a new market somewhere in Japan, in search of a little more holiday magic.
And while he may not openly admit it, I’m pretty sure he enjoys it just as much as I do!
Over the years, that tradition has taken us to Christmas markets across Japan, from Tokyo to Hiroshima, Fukuoka, and beyond.
Now, I’m sharing my firsthand reviews of some of the most popular Christmas markets in Japan, including what I loved, what I didn’t, and everything in between.
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The Best Christmas Markets in Japan
Listed in no specific order, here’s a look at the most popular Christmas markets in Japan!
Azabudai Hills Christmas Market
Location: Azabudai Hills Central Plaza, Tokyo
Dates: November 21 – December 25, 2026
Set within one of Tokyo’s premier residential areas, the Azabudai Hills Christmas Market is a charming market known for its beautiful, festive decor.
From twinkling lights to elaborately decorated wooden stalls, giant Christmas trees, and a festive green archway – the atmosphere here is incredibly cozy and delightful.
As you explore the market, you’ll find a mix of Japanese and international vendors selling all kinds of seasonal souvenirs and bites.
Among them are luxury brand Dolce and Gabbana as well as the famous German Christmas shop, Käthe Wohlfahrt.
Beyond that, you can also explore Central Walk. This beautifully lit pathway, which connects Kamiyacho Station Square to Tower Plaza, offers a variety of festive displays and even a few selfie spots.
My Thoughts: This is, without a doubt, one of the cutest Christmas markets I’ve visited in Japan! Although on the smaller side, it felt very cozy, inviting, and incredibly festive. I was very impressed with how thoughtfully everything was arranged and decorated. And the food? Incredible! Best of all, it wasn’t too crowded when I visited (during the week) – which is definitely a bonus!
🌟 Spending a few days in Tokyo? Don’t miss my 4 day Tokyo itinerary!
Tokyo Christmas Market
Location: Shin-Toyosu, Tokyo (New Location for 2026!)
Dates: November 20 – December 25, 2026
Hosted by the German Embassy, the Tokyo Christmas Market is not only the largest Christmas market in Japan, it’s also one of the most popular in Tokyo.
Here, you’ll find nearly 60 vendors selling everything from souvenirs and Christmas ornaments to festive drinks and European-inspired fare.
There’s also a large stage set up with live entertainment that’s available daily. As well as street performers who pop up here and there throughout the venue.
As far as decor goes, the market’s main centerpiece is a large wooden Christmas pyramid that was actually shipped over from Germany.
Adorned in sparkling lights, this traditional German structure depicts a variety of scenes from the Grimm’s Fairy Tales.
My Thoughts: I expected this market to be more crowded than it was – but we did visit during the week, so that could explain things. Needless to say, it’s a surprisingly chill and laid-back market, with plenty of opportunities for shopping and eating! The only disappointing factor here, in my opinion, was the decor and holiday lighting. Compared to the other Christmas markets on this list, it just seemed to be a bit lacking.
*Please Note: The Tokyo Christmas Market charges an entrance fee. You can either purchase your ticket at the door or reserve it online. If you pre-book online, you’ll also receive a free Christmas market mug!
🌟 New: Last year, the Embassy opened up a second location for its Christmas market at Shiba Park near Tokyo Tower. For the 2026 holiday season, this one will run from December 4th through December 25th.
Roppongi Hills Christmas Market
Location: O-Yane Plaza, Roppongi Hills, Tokyo
Dates: November 5 – December 25, 2026
While the Christmas Market in Roppongi Hills is certainly one of the smallest on our list, it’s still quite popular and well worth mentioning.
Situated within the Roppongi Hills complex, this compact market is home to 10 festive stalls, each selling a variety of holiday treats and seasonal gifts.
Though the market itself is simple in design, it is nicely decorated with seasonal decor that features Santa Claus and reindeer figurines.
What truly steals the spotlight here, however, are the impressive illuminations that are located just outside.
Lining Keyakizaka Street, this incredible light display perfectly frames Tokyo Tower in the background – and is a stunning sight to behold!
My Thoughts: To be honest, I wasn’t really impressed with the Christmas market here – it’s difficult to find, and it’s really small. However, it is the only indoor market on this list, so it’s a good option if you happen to encounter bad weather. Aside from this, I will say the illuminations around the market are quite beautiful to see. Just be prepared to put in the work if you want to get good pictures. The best photo spots (where you can see Tokyo Tower in the distance) are quite crowded!
*Please Note: This market is located in O-Yane Plaza, which is inside Mori Tower in Roppongi Hills. Depending upon where you’re coming from, you’ll either need to go up a few flights of stairs or down a few – which can make it confusing. Your best bet is to get yourself inside the building and follow the signs for O-Yane Plaza.
Tokyo Skytree Dream Christmas Market
Location: Tokyo Skytree, Tokyo
Dates: November 5 – December 25, 2026
Nestled at the base of Tokyo Skytree, the Dream Christmas Market is a small but cozy event with some pretty impressive holiday views.
Despite its size, the market does a great job of capturing the festive spirit with its charming array of stalls and decorations.
Of particular note are the holiday lights that blanket the market with incredible displays of twinkling colors.
And, of course, we can’t forget about the Skytree – which is illuminated against the night sky, creating a magical backdrop for the market.
My Thoughts: Even though this market is small, I really liked it – in fact, I’ve been here twice now! The decor is cute, the atmosphere is festive, and having Tokyo Skytree lit up right above you makes it all feel pretty special. Plus, they have some super fun Christmas mugs that make for great souvenirs!
*Please Note: This market is located on an outdoor balcony on the 4th floor. You’ll need to go inside the Tokyo Skytree building to access it.
Yokohama Red Brick Warehouse Christmas Market
Location: Red Brick Warehouse, Yokohama
Dates: November 20 – December 25, 2026
As the only Christmas market in Yokohama, the Red Brick Warehouse Market is an incredibly popular event.
It also happens to be one of the most scenic Christmas markets that I’ve encountered.
Nestled along the waterfront, between two red brick warehouses, the ambiance here is really cute, cozy, and festive.
In the middle of the square, they have a large Christmas tree set up with flashing lights surrounded by countless vendors.
And, on the outskirts of the venue, you’ll find a large “Yokohama” sign that’s great for photos – as well as an ice skating rink.
My Thoughts: I really wanted to like this market – and I think I would have if it wasn’t so crowded. We went on a weekend, and it was hectic, overwhelmingly so. Your best bet would probably be to visit during the week to avoid the crowds. Or, you can come during the day, but it won’t be as pretty without the lights. They do allow reentry, though, so you could come during the day to check out the vendors and then pop back in at night to see the lights.
*Please Note: The Red Brick Christmas Market charges an entrance fee. You can either purchase your ticket at the door or online (tickets go on sale beginning November 6, 2026). Priority tickets with skip-the-line privileges are also available.
🌟 Looking for more things to do in Yokohama? Check out my Yokohama day trip itinerary!
Osaka Christmas Market
Location: Ten-Shiba, Tennoji Park, Osaka
Dates: November 20 – December 25, 2026
As the largest market in the city, the Osaka Christmas Market is a fun and festive event with plenty to do and see.
Set within Tennoji Park, the market is home to a variety of local vendors selling everything from European-inspired fare and seasonal drinks to unique holiday souvenirs.
Beyond the stalls, you’ll find interactive workshops, like snow globe making, alongside live performances and ice skating.
Santa Claus is even known to make an appearance from time to time!
Finally, we can’t forget about the decor, which features several beautiful Christmas trees, unique holiday illuminations, and an iconic Osaka sign framed against the city skyline.
My Thoughts: The market here is a lot of fun to explore! There are a ton of vendors, and the layout is really spacious – which definitely helps with crowd control. We actually went on opening night, and it didn’t feel crowded at all. For those traveling with kids, I’d say this is probably the best market to visit. There’s plenty of open green space for them to run around and lots of activities to keep them entertained. On top of that, the decor is super cute, and the mulled wine is great!
🌟 Want to make the most of your time in Osaka? Check out my Osaka itinerary!
Umeda Sky Building Christmas Market
Location: Umeda Sky Building, Osaka
Dates: November 13 – December 25, 2026
Tucked beneath Osaka’s most famous observatory, the Christmas Market at Umeda Sky is a warm and cozy event.
Although on the smaller side, the market is home to a surprising number of vendors offering a mix of seasonal souvenirs, festive drinks, and German-inspired fare.
The real highlight, however, is the market’s 25-meter-tall LED Christmas tree.
Adorned with 130,000 twinkling lights, the tree comes to life with colorful patterns and festive scenes that change in time to holiday music. It’s quite a sight to behold!
If you have extra time, be sure to also check out Umeda Sky Building. Not only are the views from above fantastic, but they also have an additional Christmas display set up in the observatory.
My Thoughts: Despite the market’s size, I still really enjoyed it! It’s very cute, charming, and well-decorated! It also didn’t feel quite as crowded as some of the others on this list. I mean, it was busy, yes, but not overwhelmingly so. That may have been because we visited during the week, but we stayed all night and were as happy as could be!
Kobe Christmas Market
Location: Nunobiki Herb Gardens, Kobe
Dates: November 7 – December 28, 2026
Located high above Kobe, within the Nunobiki Herb Gardens, the Kobe Christmas Market is honestly one of the most beautiful markets I’ve seen in Japan.
Here, the illuminations and decor are woven throughout the property’s gardens, creating an atmosphere that is really unique and picturesque.
There are a total of 3 main displays for visitors to explore: the Top Station, the Christmas Forest, and the Glass House.
While the Top Station is home to the main Christmas market, complete with food and souvenir vendors, the other two areas offer incredible illuminations.
My Thoughts: There’s no doubt about it – this market is absolutely stunning! The illuminations and decor are just next level! That said, it gets very crowded, very quickly. Evening hours here are limited to weekends and the days leading up to Christmas. So, crowds tend to hit all at once. We went on a weekend around sunset and had to wait 45 minutes just to get in (via ropeway). On top of that, there are only 3 food vendors on-site, so food lines can be just as long. Despite this, I still think the market is worth visiting for the illuminations – just be sure to eat beforehand, arrive early, and be prepared to wait!
*Please Note: This Christmas market is only accessible via the Kobe Nunobiki Ropeway and requires an entrance fee. You can purchase tickets online or upon arrival – although I do recommend securing your tickets in advance.
🌟 Planning a trip to Kobe? Check out my Kobe itinerary!
Christmas Market in Hikari no Machi Hakata
Location: JR Hakata Station Square, Fukuoka
Dates: November 7 – December 25, 2026
Part of Fukuoka’s larger “Christmas Advent” celebration, the Christmas market at Hakata Station is one of the city’s most popular holiday events.
Here, you’ll find nearly 30 vendors selling a variety of Christmas-inspired fare, mulled wine, German beer, and souvenirs – including some items imported directly from Europe.
In addition to this, the event typically features a few art exhibits that showcase the work of local Japanese artists.
And, of course, we can’t forget about the giant Christmas tree and elaborate illuminations that decorate the square, providing a fun, festive atmosphere.
My Thoughts: I love the lights and the decor here – they are just so beautiful! And while the market itself can get a bit crowded, it’s manageable. The decorative stalls and light displays are spread out across the station square, so it helps with crowd control. There are also plenty of vendors, so it’s a great spot to pick up a few souvenirs and Christmas ornaments!
🌟 Spending a few days in Fukuoka? Don’t miss my 3 day Fukuoka itinerary!
Tenjin Christmas Market
Location: Fukuoka City Hall, Fukuoka
Dates: November 14 – December 26, 2026
Located at Fukuoka City Hall, the Tenjin Christmas Market is another popular destination within Fukuoka’s larger “Christmas Advent” celebration.
Featuring a central tower surrounded by several Santa Claus statues, the illuminations here create a canopy effect, encasing the entire market in a festive glow.
Within this space, you’ll find several vendors offering a variety of German-inspired fare and Christmas souvenirs – as well as live music and festive performances.
While you’re here, be sure to also stop by Tenjin Central Park, located nearby. This is where the city’s famous “Forest of Light” illuminations are displayed.
My Thoughts: This is one of my favorite Christmas markets to date! The decor is beautiful, there are plenty of vendors, the live performances are entertaining, and the space doesn’t feel too crowded. They also have some of the best German-inspired food that I’ve yet to try in Japan!
Hiroshima Christmas Market
Location: Hiroshima Gate Park, Hiroshima
Dates: December 4 – December 25, 2026
Opened in 2023, the Hiroshima Christmas Market is one of the newest markets on our list – and one of the most festive.
Here, you’ll find elaborate holiday lights, live musical performances, and a variety of local vendors selling Christmas souvenirs, festive treats, and other delicious goodies.
In addition to this, the market hosts a number of interactive workshops, such as wreath making, origami folding, and candle making.
Nearby, you can also check out the city’s famous Dreamination illuminations.
Set up along Hiroshima Peace Boulevard, this annual event features elaborate and creative light displays that are quite impressive to see!
My Thoughts: I really like the Christmas Market in Hiroshima. It has a much more laid-back feel than some of the larger markets, and I found it to be noticeably less crowded. On top of that, the holiday lights and decor are beautiful! If you’re looking for a Christmas market that feels a little more relaxed, this is definitely one I’d recommend. Just be aware traffic and parking can get a little crazy at times – especially near the Dreamination illuminations.
🌟 Looking for more things to do in Hiroshima? Check out my 2 day Hiroshima itinerary!
Huis Ten Bosch
Location: Huis Ten Bosch, Sasebo
Dates: November 6 – December 25, 2026
Every year around the holidays, the Dutch-inspired theme park, Huis Ten Bosch, hosts a massive Christmas celebration.
Complete with a Christmas market, live performances, fireworks, and winter activities like ice skating, the park really goes all out.
In fact, it’s known for its incredible illumination display, which is one of the largest in the world.
What’s more, the park features a variety of European architecture and cobblestone streets, so it has that charming European vibe as well!
My Thoughts: Huis Ten Bosch wasn’t even on my radar until my husband suggested it – and I’m so glad he did. The theme park is absolutely beautiful around the holidays, and there’s so much to do here. Just be sure to plan ahead! And, if you’d like to stay the night, book your accommodations in advance, as they fill up quickly!
🌟 Want to learn more about Huis Ten Bosch? Check out my detailed holiday guide to Huis Ten Bosch!
Honorable Mentions – Christmas Markets in Japan
While I haven’t personally visited the Christmas Markets mentioned below, I have heard incredible things about them! Since they’re on my bucket list for the near future, I’ve decided to include them in this post as well!
German Christmas Market in Sapporo
Location: Odori Park, Sapporo
Dates: November 20 – December 25, 2026
Surprisingly enough, Sapporo has a sister city relationship with Munich, Germany – so you know their Christmas market has got to be good!
Situated in Odori Park, which is also where the city’s illuminations are displayed, the market is known for its German-inspired food and festivities.
From mulled wine to bratwurst, visits from Saint Nikolaus, and German-inspired musical performances, the Christmas Market in Sapporo is sure to be a unique and festive experience.
Nagoya Christmas Market
Location: Hisaya-odori Park, Nagoya
Dates: December 4 – 25, 2026
Set in the heart of the city, the Nagoya Christmas Market is known for its lively atmosphere and festive decor.
Here, you can expect to find a variety of European-inspired food stalls, sparkling holiday illuminations, as well as a giant fir Christmas tree.
The market also features interactive workshops, like candle-making classes, and Santa Claus appearances!
Tips for Visiting the Christmas Markets in Japan
Here are a few practical tips to help you plan your visit to Japan’s Christmas markets!
- Expect Crowds: Christmas markets in Japan have become widely popular, so expect long lines and wait times. For a quieter experience, visit during the week or earlier in the day.
- Purchase Tickets in Advance: Some markets require entry tickets, so be sure to purchase those in advance whenever possible.
- Dress for Cold Weather: December nights can get quite chilly in Japan. And northern cities like Sapporo often see early snowfall.
- Carry Cash & Card: Most vendors accept cards, but some food stalls remain cash-only. Bring both, so you’re covered either way.
- Check Entertainment Schedules: Some markets offer live performances and lighting ceremonies. Check their schedules in advance, so you don’t miss out on the fun!
- Grab a Christmas Mug: They’re festive, fun, and make for great souvenirs!
Other Things to Do in Japan Around the Holidays
Snowy Hogwarts display at the HP Studio in Tokyo.
In addition to the Christmas markets, there are a variety of other holiday events that take place around Japan. Here are a few of the more popular celebrations and activities:
- Winter Illuminations: Many cities throughout Japan put up elaborate Christmas lights and illumination displays beginning in November. Some of the more popular ones include Tokyo Mega Illumi and Yomiuri Land Jewellumination in Tokyo, the Festival of Lights in Osaka, Ashikaga Flower Fantasy in Ashikaga, and Nabana no Sato Winter Illumination in Nagoya.
- Disney Christmas: For the holidays, Tokyo Disney Resort, which encompasses both Disneyland and DisneySea, hosts a variety of festive events including Christmas parades, holiday illuminations, and live performances.
- Universal Christmas: During the holiday season, Universal Studios Japan holds a festive Christmas celebration. This event typically features a variety of holiday illuminations, a Christmas market, as well as live performances.
- Hogwarts in the Snow: Every year, the Harry Potter Studio in Tokyo transforms itself into a winter wonderland – complete with snow-covered displays and holiday decor.
- Ice Skating: Around the holidays, ice skating rinks pop up in cities across Japan. Many are located close to the Christmas markets and winter illuminations.
- KFC Christmas Dinner: During the holidays, KFC offers a special Christmas menu that’s quite popular among the locals. In fact, KFC chicken has somehow become Japan’s go-to Christmas dinner! I’m not sure when this tradition began or how, but it’s become a widely accepted practice across much of the country.
Final Thoughts: Christmas Markets in Japan
When I first moved to Japan, I was worried I’d miss out on the magic of Christmas – but I couldn’t have been more wrong.
From the elaborate illuminations and beautifully decorated stalls to the festive food, Christmas markets in Japan have completely won me over.
In fact, what started as a bit of skepticism has turned into an annual tradition for me and my husband!
So, if you’re visiting Japan during the holiday season, I highly recommend adding a Christmas market (or two!) to your itinerary.
Whether you’re looking for festive fare, beautiful lights, unique souvenirs, or just a little Christmas magic, there’s no shortage of options to choose from.
Are you traveling to Japan for Christmas? If so, which Christmas markets do you plan to visit? Let me know in the comments below!
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KRYSTI ATKINSON
Krysti is a travel writer currently based in Okinawa, Japan. Over the past 3+ years, she has explored Japan extensively while traveling throughout Asia – from iconic cities to quiet, off-the-beaten-path destinations. Through Wanderful Horizons, Krysti shares detailed itineraries, practical travel tips, and firsthand recommendations to help travelers plan unforgettable adventures.
