After a two-year break due to the pandemic, Shinjuku’s Southern Terrace illuminations are back. The theme this year is ‘Jewels in my Heart’, with the trees along the 46-metre-long promenade decorated with 170,000 LEDs and colourful diamond-shaped ornaments. The path is even equipped with motion sensors that activate a special light show.
Make sure to visit the Suica Penguin Plaza as well. It’s located in front of Shinjuku Station’s New South exit, between the promenade and Takashimaya Times Square. The area is bathed in gold lights and features a special dome-shaped installation, complete with three adorable penguin statues. You may recognise the penguin character from JR East’s Suica IC prepaid cards.
Venture further and you’ll come across a white Christmas tree set up on the second floor of Takashimaya Times Square. The tree is adorned with red Christmas baubles and teddy bear ornaments. For more Christmas trees, check our full list here.
The illuminations take place daily from 4.30pm-12midnight in December and from 5pm to 12midnight in January and February.