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Increase Your Holiday Cheer by Visiting Christmas Markets in Tokyo!

Christmas is just around the corner and the Japanese seem to know how to celebrate this special holiday on a whole new level — we’re talking about Japan’s Christmas Markets, of course!

Want to lengthen your holiday hurrah? Hit up one of these Christmas markets in Tokyo and expect to be caught off guard by dazzling fairy lights, uniquely handmade ornaments, and delicious warm wine taken during chilly nights. Here’s our list of Japan’s best Tokyo Christmas markets and what to expect from them:

1. Roppongi Hills Christmas Market

(Image via Flickr)

We all have our own set of merry traditions – lighting up a house tree, spreading happiness through gifts, or going to a special restaurant with family.

Being the oldest Christmas market in Tokyo, Roppongi Hills has its own tradition, too. And that is to make sure that everyone has a jolly time by embracing family-fun shopping through their variety of products such as handmade baskets, keychains exciting toys that everyone can enjoy purchasing.

  • Opening Hours: 11:00am – 9:00pm
  • Dates: November 23 – December 25, 2018
  • Location: Roppongi Hills O-Yane Plaza, 6-11-1 Roppongi, Minato-ku, Tokyo
  • Traveler Type: For those who love European food or German-style meats

2. Tokyo Christmas Market

(Image via Pixabay)

From the name itself, you know it’s going to be a legit Christmas market. Despite being a popular and (sort of) crowded market, Hibiya’s best attractions— a harmonized christmas carolling, a gigantic 14m Christmas pyramid decor, and an outdoor and tented European styled ambiance— are cool reasons to come and visit. Everything looks subarashi!

  • Opening Hours: 11:00am – 10:00am
  • Dates: December 14 – 25, 2018
  • Location: Hibiya Park, Hibiya Koen, Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo
  • Traveler Type: For Instagram perfectionists

3. Yokohama Red Brick Warehouse Market

(Image via Pixabay)

With magical lights and red bricks, who wouldn’t feel like they’re in a Christmas movie? Yokohama’s red brick market is a must-visit sightseeing spot for people who need to get themselves an extra shot of holiday spirit.

There are a bunch of drinking stalls available, as well as craft workshops that make you feel like one of Santa’s elves, and, for those who have kids, a real-life Santa to find out if they’re naughty or nice.

Bonus: There’s even ice rink for you and your family to enjoy.

  • Opening Hours: 11:00am – 8:00pm
  • Dates: November 25 – December 25, 2018
  • Location: Yokohama Akarenga, 1-1, Shin-Minato, Naka-ku, Yokohama-shi, Kanagawa
  • Traveler type: Arts and craft enthusiasts

4.  Solamachi Christmas Market

(Image via Shutterstock)

Yes, Solamachi has your usual European holiday festivities – a cup of glühwein (hot red wine), stollen waffles, and chocolate fudge to top it all of. But combine these lovely experiences with their best attraction — a light show that twinkles and spreads throughout Tokyo — and you’ll have a wonderfully heartwarming and nostalgic memory for years to come.

  • Opening Hours: 11:00am – 10:00pm (last order of drinks: 9:30pm)
  • Dates: November 9 – December 25, 2018
  • Location: Tokyo Skytree Solamachi, Sky Arena 4F, 1-1-2 Oshiage, Sumida-ku, Tokyo
  • Traveler Type: For those who like to gaze underneath the lights

5. Setagaya Boroichi Flea Market

(Image via Wikimedia Commons)

Budget travelers, rejoice! There is a flea Christmas market in Tokyo and it’s in Setagaya! Head over for an enormous display of bargainable boths that are excellent for your last-minute shopping needs.

Any cheapoes out there lookign for exotic home decor? Pick up intense Japanese kick knacks, such as the Kokeshi dolls (sold for ¥ 1,000). Or simply take photos while surrounded by the lively crowd.

  • Opening Hours: 9:00am – 9:00pm
  • Dates: December 15 – 16, and January 15 – 16, 2018
  • Location: Setagaya, Setagaya-ku, Tokyo, 154-0017, Japan
  • Travel Type: Frugal travelers

With freshly-cooked meat, mood brightening lights, and cheery crowds, it’s no wonder why holiday markets hold a special place in Japan. Visited any of these charming places? Let us know which you loved the most! Wishing you Happy Holidays from us here at KKday!

For more cool activities in Tokyo, check out these articles and products!