December brings Tokyo's illumination season. Here are 5 major light-up spots in Shinjuku Ward, with opening hours and tips to avoid crowds.
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Tokyo in December transforms into a world of lights as dusk falls.
While Shinjuku Ward may not be the most famous illumination destination (Roppongi, Marunouchi, and Omotesando draw more attention), there are 5 local spots worth exploring in a single evening.
5 Illuminated Spots in Shinjuku Ward
01｜Shinjuku Station South Exit Plaza｜Christmas Tree and Illuminations
NEWoMan Plaza **features a large Christmas tree** (late November – December 25). Free to view.
Lights up after 17:00 and synchronizes with the shopping mall's facade lighting.
02｜Shinjuku Gyoen Entrance Avenue｜Street Lights Illuminated
On the street 200 meters from the Shinjuku Gate of the Imperial Garden, **a lighting ceremony takes place in December**. Free admission.
Compact in size but intimate in atmosphere, with fewer crowds than commercial illumination spots.
03｜Kabukicho 1-chome｜Neon Night
The neon lights of Kabukicho are inherently "eternally lit." **Special illuminations will be added in December.**
Chaotic by day, but a photographer's paradise at night.
04｜Shinjuku NEWoMan Mall｜Indoor Illumination
The **chandelier art installation in the 3rd-floor atrium of the shopping mall** is a limited-time winter experience. Free admission.
After shopping, you can rest and relax at the mall's coffee shop.
05｜Shinjuku Central Park｜Illuminated Street Walk
The park adjacent to Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building features **LED light decorations on trees and pathways in December**.
The area is moderate in size and can be completed in 30 minutes.
The illuminations in Shinjuku Ward may not be the most famous, but **they are all within walking distance from IGO HOTEL**. We recommend starting from NEWoMan and slowly walking toward Kabukicho.
IGO HOTEL is within 15 minutes' walk to 5 attractions.
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