Illustration of neighbours admiring a cottage yard full of lit snowmen and candy canes (Utsunomiya Illumination)
Christmas Lights

Utsunomiya Illumination

Visitors can stroll through central Utsunomiya to view decorative displays and approximately 200,000 sparkling illuminations. Lights reflected on the surface of the Kamagawa River create a dreamy waterside atmosphere. The lighting ceremony at Orion Square is held in conjunction with a one-night wine village celebrating the release of Beaujolais Nouveau.

Nov 19, 2026 – Jan 17, 2027 All ages

Website / Tickets

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Plan Your Visit

Neighborhood

Utsunomiya City Center

Food & Drink

A one-night wine village celebrating Beaujolais Nouveau is held alongside the Orion Square lighting ceremony.

Location

See it and nearby events on the map
オリオンスクエア、釜川プロムナード、バンバ広場、バンバ通り、東武馬車道通り、オリオン通り、ユニオン通り、みはし通り、ポケットパーク · 栃木県宇都宮市江野町8-3, Utsunomiya, Tochigi 320-0802 Get Directions

Local Insight & Ratings

Family Friendly

🎄 🎄 🎄 🎄 ⚪ (4/5)

Best For

Visitors who enjoy relaxed urban light walks

Vibe

Dreamy and festive

Energy Level

Moderate

Photo Friendly

High

Weather Sensitivity

Low

Tips & Advice

  • Use bus access or walk from Tobu-Utsunomiya Station to reach the event areas, both of which are listed as convenient options.
  • Allow time to move between downtown display locations, and wear comfortable shoes for exploring the event's multiple illuminated spots.
  • Bring rain protection if needed; the event is marked suitable for rainy weather, so showers do not automatically rule out a visit.
  • Add warm layers for an evening visit, since the event is a winter-season outdoor illumination spread across central Utsunomiya.
  • Confirm the lighting-ceremony date before making plans around it, because the listing announces the wine village pairing but gives no date.

Special Events & Promotions

  • Lighting ceremony at Orion Square, held with the one-night Wine Village for the Beaujolais Nouveau release

Links & Contact

Run by Utsunomiya Convention & Visitors Bureau

Website / Tickets Contact

Christmas Events Near Me is an independent guide, not the organizer of this event. For tickets, entries, vendor spots or questions, contact the organizer directly through their contact page.

Frequently Asked Questions

What will I see?

About 200,000 lights decorate spots across central Utsunomiya, along with light displays and decorative objects. Along the Kamagawa you can see the lights shimmering on the water as you explore the town.

How do I get there without a car?

The illuminated streets are within walking distance of Tobu Utsunomiya Station, and you can also get there by bus.

Can I go if it's raining?

Yes, the illumination is fine to visit in the rain.

What happens at the lighting ceremony?

The lighting ceremony at Orion Square is held together with the one-night Wine Village, timed for the release of Beaujolais Nouveau.

View More FAQs

Always check the official website for the most current information.

We've done our best to keep details up-to-date, but event schedules, prices, and policies can change. For the latest updates, please visit the official website or contact the organizers directly. Christmas Events Near Me is an independent guide and isn't affiliated with the events we list.

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Contributors & Updates

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