January 2025 Events & Festivals in Japan
Kobe Luminarie 2025 - Winter Light Festival Kobe
Date: January 24 - February 2, 2025
Location: Higashi Yuenchi Park, Former Foreign Settlement, and Meriken Park, Kobe
Details: The 30th anniversary of Kobe Luminarie transforms the city into a mesmerizing spectacle of light. This annual illumination event commemorates the victims of the 1995 Great Hanshin-Awaji Earthquake. Featuring hundreds of thousands of lights, it creates a cathedral-like atmosphere, drawing millions of visitors. The event showcases hope, resilience, and the enduring spirit of Kobe's people.
Tokyo Disney Resort New Year Celebration 2025
Date: January 1 - 13, 2025
Location: Tokyo Disneyland and Tokyo DisneySea, Urayasu, Chiba
Details: Experience a magical start to the year with Disney's special New Year event. Highlights include the "New Year's Greeting" program featuring Mickey Mouse and friends in traditional Japanese attire. The parks will be adorned with festive kadomatsu decorations, and guests can enjoy themed merchandise and special menus. Disney hotels will offer New Year menus, and the Disney Resort Line will feature special day passes with unique designs.
Rockin' On Sonic Music Festival 2025 Chiba
Date: January 4 - 5, 2025
Location: Makuhari Messe International Exhibition Hall, Chiba
Details: This new international music festival brings together established and emerging artists. The two-day event features performances by renowned bands like PULP, WEEZER, PRIMAL SCREAM, and ST. VINCENT. With multiple stages including the GALAXY STAGE (20,000 capacity) and COSMO STAGE (8,000 capacity), it promises a diverse musical experience for international music fans.
January Grand Sumo Tournament 2025 Tokyo
Date: January 12 - 26, 2025
Location: Ryogoku Kokugikan, Tokyo
Details: Witness Japan's national sport at its finest during the Hatsu Basho (New Year Tournament). This 15-day event showcases top-ranked sumo wrestlers competing in thrilling matches. It's an opportunity to experience the rich traditions and intense competition of professional sumo wrestling.
Setagaya Boroichi (Boro Market) 2025 Tokyo
Date: January 15 - 16, 2025
Location: Setagaya, Tokyo
Details: This traditional flea market, with a history spanning over 400 years, is held twice a year. The winter edition in January offers a unique shopping experience with hundreds of stalls selling antiques, crafts, and local food. It's an excellent opportunity to find unique souvenirs and experience local culture.
Nozawa Onsen Fire Festival 2025 Nagano
Date: January 15, 2025
Location: Nozawa Onsen Village, Nagano Prefecture
Details: This spectacular fire festival, one of Japan's three great fire festivals, features a dramatic battle between villagers using massive torches. Set against the backdrop of a snowy village, it's a prayer for good fortune and health for the coming year.
Wakakusa Yamayaki Festival 2025 Nara
Date: January 25, 2025
Location: Mount Wakakusa, Nara
Details: Witness the ancient tradition of setting the mountainside ablaze in this annual festival. The event begins with a fireworks display, followed by the lighting of the mountain grass, creating a stunning visual spectacle visible throughout Nara city.
Jozankei Snow Lantern Festival 2025 Sapporo
Date: January 25 - February 1, 2025
Location: Jozankei Onsen, Sapporo, Hokkaido
Details: This enchanting winter event transforms the hot spring town of Jozankei into a magical wonderland. Hundreds of snow lanterns and ice sculptures illuminate the area, creating a serene and beautiful atmosphere perfect for winter photography.
Tokyo Auto Salon 2025 Chiba
Date: January 10 - 12, 2025
Location: Makuhari Messe, Chiba (near Tokyo)
Details: One of the world's largest custom car shows, Tokyo Auto Salon showcases the latest trends in automotive modification and design. Featuring cutting-edge technology, concept cars, and aftermarket products, it's a must-visit event for car enthusiasts.
Conclusion
January in Japan is packed with incredible events that showcase the country’s culture, traditions, and creativity. From dazzling light displays to lively festivals and unique shopping experiences, this is the perfect time to explore Japan. Start planning your trip today and immerse yourself in the unforgettable charm of January's best events and festivals. Contact us to help you plan your perfect January adventure in Japan!
