Tokyo Christmas Market

European Holiday Charm in Tokyo

Venue: Meiji Jingu Gaien, Shinjuku, Tokyo
When: November 21-December 25, 2025 (Dates are subject to change)

The Tokyo Christmas Market is one of the city’s most festive winter events, bringing the charm of European holiday traditions to Meiji Jingu Gaien each year. Modelled after the historic Christmas markets of Dresden, Germany, it features a towering 14-metre wooden Christmas pyramid, chalet-style stalls, and an inviting mix of seasonal food, drinks, and handcrafted decorations. Visitors can enjoy mulled wine, German sausages, and sweet treats while browsing artisanal ornaments and gifts. With live music, performances, and sparkling lights, it’s an ideal spot to experience Christmas in Tokyo, whether you’re visiting for an afternoon or making it part of a longer holiday stay.

What to Expect at the Tokyo Christmas Market

This Christmas market in Tokyo transforms Meiji Jingu Gaien into a winter wonderland. The centrepiece is the giant Christmas pyramid imported from Dresden, surrounded by rows of chalet-style stalls selling mulled wine, hot chocolate, gingerbread, and savoury German delicacies. Visitors can browse for handcrafted ornaments, candles, and seasonal gifts while enjoying live performances of Christmas music. Decorative lights and festive displays create a warm, welcoming atmosphere that feels both authentically European and uniquely Tokyo. 

Who Is the Tokyo Christmas Market For?

This festive event in Tokyo attracts a wide variety of audiences, each finding something special to enjoy:

• Families: Children love the sparkling lights, festive decorations, and seasonal treats, while parents can enjoy a safe, lively environment with activities for all ages.

• Couples: The romantic atmosphere, cozy chalets, and illuminated backdrops make it a popular spot for holiday dates and memorable photos.

• Solo travelers: For those exploring on their own, the market offers a welcoming atmosphere, plenty of food stalls, and a chance to mingle with both locals and other travelers.

• Tourists and photo enthusiasts: With Instagrammable light displays, European-style wooden huts, and festive decorations, the market is a favorite for capturing holiday memories.

• Shoppers and souvenir seekers: The stalls feature seasonal gifts, crafts, and limited-edition holiday items that make perfect keepsakes.

The market is also highly tourist-friendly, with English signage at many stalls and staff experienced in assisting international visitors, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable experience for travelers from around the world.

Pro Tips

• Visit on weekday afternoons or early evenings to avoid peak crowds.
  

• Bring cash for food and craft stalls, as not all vendors accept cards.
  

• Arrive via Gaienmae Station for the most direct access.
  

• Expect queues at food stalls on weekends and evenings.
  

• The venue is mostly flat but can be crowded, so plan extra time if you need mobility assistance.

What to Wear at the Christmas Market

Late November and December evenings in Tokyo can be cold, with average lows of 5-8°C. Wear warm layers, a coat, a scarf, and gloves for comfort while walking outdoors. Comfortable shoes are essential, as you may spend hours exploring the stalls. 

How to Get to Tokyo Christmas Market

• From Tokyo Station: Take the JR Chuo Line to Shinjuku, then transfer to the Tokyo Metro Ginza Line for Gaienmae Station. The venue is a 5-minute walk from the station.

• From outside Tokyo: Use a JR Pass to reach central Tokyo from cities like Osaka or Kyoto, then connect to the Tokyo Metro Ginza Line for Gaienmae Station.

Nearby Recommendations

• Try nearby Aoyama cafés or Omotesando restaurants for a post-market meal.
  

• Combine your visit with a stroll along Ginkgo Avenue, famous for its golden autumn leaves in late November.
  

• Find hotels near Shinjuku or Aoyama on JapanDen for easy access to the market and central Tokyo attractions.

More About the Christmas Market in Tokyo

Coming about in the late 20th and early 21st centuries, the Tokyo Christmas Market was inspired by Dresden’s centuries-old holiday markets. It has since become one of the most anticipated Christmas markets in Tokyo, drawing thousands of visitors each year. The event blends German festive traditions with Japanese hospitality, making it a distinctive winter celebration in the city.

Planning Your Visit

• Book your hotel near Meiji Jingu Gaien to stay close to the market and nearby attractions.

• Get a JR Pass for cost-effective travel to Tokyo and seamless regional trips.

• Reserve a Pocket Wi-Fi to navigate, translate, and share your Tokyo Christmas Market experience online.
  
  

FAQs About The Tokyo Christmas Market

Q: Do I need a ticket for the Tokyo Christmas Market?
A: Yes, entry requires a paid ticket, with prices varying by day.

Q: Is it kid-friendly?
A: Absolutely. Children can enjoy the decorations, sweets, and festive entertainment.

Q: Is there shelter from the rain?
A: The market is outdoors, so bring an umbrella or a raincoat.

Q: Are pets allowed at Tokyo Christmas Market?
A: No, pets are not permitted except for registered assistance animals.

Q: Are there English signs at Tokyo Christmas Market?
A: Yes, many stalls and information boards have English signage.

Q: When does the Tokyo Christmas Market open and close?
A: It typically opens in mid-November and runs until late December. Daily opening hours are usually 11:00 AM - 9:30 PM on weekdays and 11:00 AM - 10:00 PM on weekends and holidays, but times may vary by year.

Q: How much is admission to the Tokyo Christmas Market?
A: Admission is around ¥1,000 on weekdays, ¥1,500 on weekends and holidays, and ¥2,000 during peak days (December 20-25).

Q: What food is served at the Tokyo Christmas Market?
A: Popular options include German sausages, pretzels, mulled wine, hot chocolate, gingerbread, and festive baked goods.

Q: Where is the Tokyo Christmas Market held?
A: The main event takes place at Meiji Jingu Gaien in Shinjuku, Tokyo, a short walk from Gaienmae Station on the Tokyo Metro Ginza Line. For those looking for a smaller, boutique-style experience, the Roppongi Hills Christmas Market is another popular festive option in the city.

Q: Is the Tokyo Christmas Market worth visiting?
A: Yes. It’s one of Tokyo’s largest and most atmospheric Christmas markets, offering a blend of European holiday traditions, festive food, and seasonal shopping in a picturesque setting.