Pop culture
Fri, Jan 15 – Sun, Jan 17
Tokyo Auto Salon 2027
Makuhari Messe, Chiba · Kanto
Paid
One of the world's largest custom car shows.
Paid. Digital tickets only.
Sports & sumo
Sun, Jan 10 – Sun, Jan 24
Grand Sumo January Tournament (Hatsu Basho)
Ryogoku Kokugikan, Tokyo · Kanto
Paid
The year's first grand sumo tournament, 15 days at the Kokugikan in Ryogoku.
Paid. Advance tickets go on sale 5 December 2026.
Illuminations
Fri, Dec 4 – Sun, Jan 24
Hiroshima Dreamination 2026
Peace Boulevard, Hiroshima · Chugoku
FreeAfter dark
Fairy-tale themed light displays line Peace Boulevard in central Hiroshima.
IlluminationsOn now
Until Sun, Feb 1416:00–23:00 (until midnight in December)
Marunouchi Illumination 2026
Marunouchi Naka-dori, Tokyo · Kanto
FreeAfter dark
Trees along Marunouchi Naka-dori near Tokyo Station are lit in champagne gold.
IlluminationsOn now
Until Sat, Feb 2016:00–23:00
Yokohama Chinatown Lunar New Year Illumination
Yokohama Chinatown · Kanto
FreeAfter dark
Lanterns and lights decorate the streets of Yokohama Chinatown ahead of Lunar New Year.
Autumn leaves & flowers
Sat, Jan 9 – Sun, Mar 7
83rd Atami Baien Plum Festival
Atami Baien Plum Garden, Shizuoka · Chubu & Hokuriku
Paid
A plum garden known for very early blossoms, with about 60 varieties blooming in turn.
Paid entry during the festival.
IlluminationsOn now
Until Mon, May 31
Nabana no Sato Illumination
Nabana no Sato, Kuwana, Mie (train and bus from Nagoya) · Chubu & Hokuriku
PaidAfter dark
One of Japan's largest illumination events, held in a flower park with light tunnels and a large themed display.
Paid entry. Closed 6–7 January. Dated tickets are required on 23–25 December.