Marunouchi Illumination 2025 Complete Guide｜Tokyo's Winter Wrapped in Champagne Gold

If you find yourself in Tokyo during winter, don’t miss one of the city’s most magical experiences: the Marunouchi Illumination, held annually in the vibrant Marunouchi district.
Imagine strolling beneath skyscrapers wrapped in a warm glow of elegant champagne gold lights — a breathtaking sight that leaves every visitor enchanted.

Wondering where to enjoy an unforgettable, atmospheric winter night in Tokyo? Marunouchi Illumination is the perfect answer. Just a short walk from Tokyo Station, this sparkling wonderland invites you to immerse yourself in seasonal beauty while enjoying top-notch shopping and dining options nearby.

In this article, discover the charms, must-see highlights, access tips, and nearby attractions of the Marunouchi Illumination 2025 edition — fully updated to help you plan and savor the experience like a local.

*Photos featured here are from past events and image references.

1. What is Marunouchi Illumination?

Every winter, the Marunouchi business district transforms into a shimmering wonderland with Marunouchi Illumination — a dazzling light festival centered on Marunouchi Naka-dori street.
Since its debut in 2002, this event has become a beloved Tokyo tradition, drawing visitors from near and far.

Unlike typical multicolor displays, the illumination here dazzles exclusively in a sophisticated, warm champagne gold — wrapping the cityscape in a serene glow that feels both luxurious and calming.
This unique, harmonious lightscape mingles beautifully with Marunouchi’s sleek skyscrapers, offering a peaceful oasis amid urban bustle.

Adjacent to the main illumination, the KITTE commercial facility hosts WHITE KITTE, an indoor light festival featuring a spectacular snowy white tree and enchanting light-and-sound shows.
Together, these illuminations delight visitors’ senses and create a truly unforgettable winter atmosphere exclusive to Marunouchi.

2. Basic Information about Marunouchi Area Illuminations

In winter, Marunouchi sparkles with two distinct yet equally captivating illuminations: the classic Marunouchi Illumination and the pristine WHITE KITTE display.
Walking through Marunouchi in winter means immersing yourself in a seamless journey of light and emotion.

● Marunouchi Illumination 2025

・Event Name:
Marunouchi Illumination 2025

・Event Period:
November 13, 2025 (Thu) – February 15, 2026 (Sun)
Lighting Hours: 16:00–23:00 (December may extend to midnight)

・Locations:
Marunouchi Naka-dori (stretching about 1.2 km between Yurakucho and Otemachi Stations), Marunouchi Building, Shin-Marunouchi Building, TOKIA, and around Marunouchi Brick Square
Google Maps: https://maps.app.goo.gl/4rRN9AJmJ4zXdq629

・Features:
Approximately 1 million LED lights bathe the streets in a refined champagne gold hue, symbolizing Tokyo’s urban elegance.
For 2025, there’s an enchanting collaboration with Disney, inviting visitors into a magical storybook world with themed decorations and photo spots throughout the area.

・Admission: Free

・Official Website:
https://www.marunouchi.com/pickup/event/7982/
https://marunouchi-streetpark.com/

● WHITE KITTE 2025

・Event Name:
WHITE KITTE 2025

・Event Period:
November 20, 2025 (Wed) – December 25, 2025 (Thu)
Lighting Hours: According to facility business hours, featuring nighttime light and sound performances

・Location:
JP Tower commercial facility "KITTE," 1st-floor atrium (just steps from Tokyo Station Marunouchi South Exit)
Google Maps: https://maps.app.goo.gl/CqhwJhCCcfrKNe7G8

・Features:
A majestic 14-meter white tree transforms the atrium into a stunning winter wonderland.
Regular light and sound shows enhance the immersive indoor illumination experience, ideal for escaping the cold or inclement weather.

・Admission: Free

・Official Website:
https://marunouchi.jp-kitte.jp/shop/white_kitte2025/

3. Highlights and Features of Marunouchi Illumination

The highlight of Marunouchi Illumination is the grand spectacle of about 340 street trees glowing simultaneously with roughly 1 million champagne gold LEDs, creating a tranquil yet mesmerizing winter scene.

In 2025, the exclusive "Disney JOYFUL MOMENTS" collaboration invites you to experience themed decorations and delightful photo spots inspired by your favorite characters scattered throughout the area.
Indoor light displays inside Marunouchi Building, Shin-Marunouchi Building, and TOKIA offer cozy spots to enjoy the spectacle even on chilly days.

Meanwhile, WHITE KITTE’s centerpiece glowing white tree enchants visitors with its dynamic light and sound shows, offering a magical indoor alternative to the outdoor illumination.
The contrast and variety between these illuminations truly make Marunouchi a one-of-a-kind winter destination.

4. Tips for Enjoying Marunouchi Illumination

Visit on weekday evenings after 8 pm to avoid crowds and savor a more intimate atmosphere.
Wear comfortable shoes such as sneakers — the illuminated stretch extends over 1 km and offers plenty to explore on foot.
Plan your photo stops ahead of time to capture popular spots like the illuminated trees and WHITE KITTE’s White Tree during quieter moments.
Dress warmly! Bring scarves, gloves, and hand warmers as winter evenings can be chilly and breezy in the city.
Make the most of both worlds by hopping between the outdoor Marunouchi Naka-dori illumination and the cozy indoor WHITE KITTE experience.

5. Access Information

Getting to Marunouchi Illuminations is effortless thanks to excellent public transportation options:

JR Tokyo Station (Marunouchi South Exit): 1-minute walk
Yurakucho Station: 5-minute walk
Subway lines including Tokyo Metro Marunouchi, Chiyoda, Hanzomon, and Yurakucho lines provide easy access

From airports:
- Narita Airport: approximately 60 minutes via Narita Express to Tokyo Station
- Haneda Airport: about 40 minutes via Keikyu Line and Toei Asakusa Line to Tokyo or Yurakucho Stations

Extensive underground passages make navigating Marunouchi convenient and comfortable, even on rainy days.

6. Nearby Tourist Spots

Marunouchi’s prime location offers easy access to a variety of captivating sights around Tokyo Station:

Outer Garden of the Imperial Palace: A serene retreat blending historic stone walls and pine-lined paths that invite peaceful walks.
Tokyo Station Marunouchi Building: Admire the gorgeous red-brick facade and be sure to see the nighttime illumination that highlights its classic architecture.
KITTE Garden: A free rooftop oasis offering panoramic views of the bustling Tokyo Station below.
Mitsubishi Ichigokan Museum: A unique cultural space where Meiji-era red-brick architecture meets fascinating art exhibitions.

We recommend exploring these sights during the day before capping off your visit with the warm glow of the evening illuminations.

7. Nearby Gourmet

Marunouchi boasts an exquisite mix of dining options that cater to every palate.
From traditional Japanese fare like sushi and tempura to international cuisines including Italian, French, Chinese, and authentic ethnic dishes, you’ll find it all here — from casual eateries to upscale restaurants.

Many establishments offer window seats with captivating illumination views or cozy bars perfect for savoring wine alongside Tokyo’s dazzling nightscape — ideal for romantic dates and special occasions.
Don’t miss out on the delightful cafes and bakeries sprinkled around the area, perfect for a leisurely break during your sightseeing adventures.

In Conclusion

The Marunouchi Illumination encapsulates Tokyo’s winter charm, fusing sleek urban elegance with the warmth of golden light.
This year’s special Disney collaboration adds an extra layer of magic, complemented by the dazzling White Tree installation at WHITE KITTE — both not to be missed.

With unbeatable access, a perfect blend of sightseeing, shopping, and dining, and a mesmerizing citywide light display, Marunouchi shines as an essential winter destination.

If you’re seeking a heartwarming evening wrapped in the glow of Tokyo’s lights, let Marunouchi be your unforgettable stage. Experience the magic that makes Tokyo’s winter nights truly special.