If you find yourself visiting Japan in winter, there's one magical experience you absolutely shouldn't miss—the dazzling illumination events. Among the many, the spectacular 'The Garden of Illuminated Flowers' at Ashikaga Flower Park in Tochigi Prefecture shines brightest. Visitors from all over Japan and abroad flock here each year, drawn not just to see the lights but to step inside a captivating "world of stories."
This enchanting event spreads over a sprawling 100,000 square meter area, illuminated by over 5 million LED lights that weave nature and art into a breathtaking spectacle. With themes that shift each season, every visit unveils a fresh, immersive experience that keeps guests returning—making it a favorite highlight shared across social media around the globe.
In this article, we’ll take you through everything you need to know about the 2025 Ashikaga Flower Park illumination—from must-see highlights and insider tips to how to get there and local gems nearby, so you can plan a truly unforgettable trip.
*Please note: photos in this article showcase images from past years.
1. Discover Ashikaga Flower Park
Ashikaga Flower Park, nestled in Ashikaga City of Tochigi Prefecture, is a year-round floral paradise. It’s renowned worldwide for its breathtaking springtime "Wisteria Flower Tunnel," famously listed by CNN as one of the "Top 10 Dream Travel Destinations." Each season paints the park in new colors, offering seasonal flower exhibitions that enchant visitors and invite return trips.
Since opening in 1997, the park has grown from the cherished "Hayakawa Farm," a beloved wisteria viewing site, into a top attraction welcoming over a million guests annually.
The park’s winter illumination event, "The Garden of Illuminated Flowers," is celebrated for its dazzling scale and artistic beauty, frequently ranking among Japan’s top illumination displays and embraced as a heartwarming seasonal tradition.
2. All You Need to Know: Ashikaga Flower Park Illumination
・Event Name
The Garden of Illuminated Flowers
・Event Dates
October 18, 2025 (Sat) – February 15, 2026 (Sun)
- Lighting starts:
Regular (Oct to mid-Feb): around 5:00 PM
Peak (early Nov to early Jan): from 4:30 PM - Closing times:
Regular: 8:30 PM (weekends/holidays until 9:00 PM)
Peak: Weekdays 9:00 PM, weekends/holidays 9:30 PM
・Location
Ashikaga Flower Park
607 Sakoma-cho, Ashikaga City, Tochigi 329-4216
Google Maps: https://maps.app.goo.gl/tmeD36ShRq1VLm9RA
・Admission Fee (Night Time)
- Adults: 1,400 yen
- Children: 700 yen
*Note: Daytime and nighttime admissions are separate time slots.
・Official Website
https://www.ashikaga.co.jp/flowerfantasy_special2025/en/
3. Highlights of the Illumination Experience
The 2025-2026 illumination unfolds in three enchanting chapters, each blending seasonal blooms with mesmerizing light displays. This seasonal change creates a unique storybook atmosphere every time you visit—ensuring no two visits feel the same.
- Period 1 (Oct 18–mid-Nov): "Fusion of Light and Amethyst Sage." As purple amethyst sages bloom, elegant lighting paints the park in a dreamy glow. Wander beneath illuminated flowers that seem to leap from a living painting.
- Period 2 (late Nov–Dec): "Christmas Fantasy." The park bursts into holiday cheer with glowing trees, wreaths, and floral light patterns carpeting the grounds. Nightly transformations make you feel as though you're journeying through a magical tale.
- Period 3 (New Year–Feb 15): "Co-Starring Lights and Winter Peonies." Delicate peonies bloom amid soft light, crafting a serene, characteristically Japanese scene celebrating a peaceful start to the year.
Across all chapters, the true wonder lies in the harmonious dance of nature and light—more than just illumination, it’s a sensory experience that resonates deeply, leaving an unforgettable impression no matter when you visit.
4. Tips to Make the Most of Your Visit
Here are some handy tips to help first-time visitors fully enjoy the magic:
- Arrive early: Lights come on at sunset, and popular times can get busy. Arriving while it’s still light avoids crowds and gives you time to explore.
- Bundle up: Winter nights can be chillier than expected, especially with wind in the open park. Dress warmly to stay comfortable.
- Bring your camera: Every corner is picture-perfect. While smartphones do a great job, a tripod and night mode settings will help you capture the magical glow beautifully.
- Don’t miss the souvenir shop: Find exclusive light-inspired goods and delicious local sweets—the perfect mementos to cherish your visit.
5. Getting There
・Nearest Station
JR Ryomo Line "Ashikaga Flower Park Station," just a one-minute walk away—making access effortlessly convenient.
・How to Access
- From Tokyo: Take the JR Tohoku Main Line from JR Ueno Station to Oyama Station, then transfer to the Ryomo Line to Ashikaga Flower Park Station (approximately 1.5 to 2 hours).
- Via Tobu Line: Change from Tobu Isesaki Line to Tobu Sano Line at Tatebayashi Station, then switch to Ryomo Line at Sano Station.
- By car: About 20 minutes from the Tohoku Expressway "Sano Fujioka IC." Free parking is available but expect crowds on weekends and holidays.
6. Explore Nearby Attractions
Extend your adventure by visiting nearby gems around Ashikaga Flower Park:
Ashikaga School
Experience history at Japan’s oldest educational institution, offering a peaceful retreat from the bustle.
Bannaji Temple
A National Treasure of Japan, this temple is breathtaking, especially amid vivid autumn leaves.
- Sano Premium Outlets
Shop top fashion and lifestyle brands at irresistible prices—a perfect stop for shoppers.
These spots make for a perfect multi-day itinerary, blending culture, shopping, and scenic beauty.
7. Taste the Local Flavors
Don’t miss savoring the local cuisine in Ashikaga and nearby Sano. The region’s pride—Sano Ramen—features a clear, light broth paired with handmade curly noodles that warm both heart and body after a chilly evening walk through the illuminated park.
Seasonal strawberry sweets and dishes brimming with local fresh vegetables add to the culinary adventure, making your visit tastefully memorable.
Conclusion
The stunning illumination at Ashikaga Flower Park offers more than just glowing lights—it’s a mesmerizing fusion of nature, art, and innovative technology that touches every visitor’s heart with warmth and nostalgia.
If you’re planning a winter trip to Japan, make sure to add this magical venue to your itinerary. Its convenient access, welcoming atmosphere, and breathtaking beauty assure a worry-free experience, even for first-time visitors.
A serene night bathed in golden light awaits—come and experience the enchanting beauty of Japan’s winter at Ashikaga Flower Park.
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