Fantastic illuminations that color the winter night sky. In the Chubu region, there are light art spaces woven with millions of LED bulbs scattered in the suburbs away from the hustle and bustle of the city. In the 2025-2026 season, thanks to the evolution of environmentally conscious LED technology and the enhancement of experiential productions, you can enjoy illuminations on an unprecedented scale and quality.
This article provides a comprehensive guide to winter illumination information perfect for family trips, couple dates, and even camper van tours, focusing on seven carefully selected main spots from each prefecture of Aichi, Mie, Gifu, Shizuoka, and Nagano.
Table of Contents
- Nabana no Sato (Kuwana City, Mie Prefecture) – The World of 8.5 Million Bulbs, the Largest in Chubu
- Izu Kogen Gran Illumine (Ito City, Shizuoka Prefecture) – Pioneer of Experiential Illuminations
- Azumino National Government Park (Azumino City, Nagano Prefecture) – Forest of Light Overlooking the Northern Alps
- Tokinosumika Illumination “Hikari no Sumika” (Gotemba City, Shizuoka Prefecture) – Magical Forest at the Foot of Mt. Fuji
- Hamamatsu Fruit Park Tokinosumika (Hamamatsu City, Shizuoka Prefecture) – A Special Night Where the Orchard Shines
- Anjo Industrial Culture Park Denpark (Anjo City, Aichi Prefecture) – A Light Amusement Park for the Whole Family
- Kisosansen National Government Park (Kaizu City, Gifu Prefecture) – 2 Million Bulbs of Brilliance to Enjoy for Free
1. Nabana no Sato Illumination (Kuwana City, Mie Prefecture) – The Holy Land of Light, the Largest in Chubu Region
The Overwhelming Scale of the “Zipangu” Theme
Nabana no Sato is a leading presence in the illumination scene in the Chubu region. The theme for the 2025-2026 season is “Zipangu.” Inspired by the golden country of Japan that appears in Marco Polo’s “The Travels of Marco Polo,” ukiyo-e style landscapes are recreated with approximately 8.5 million LEDs.
Particularly spectacular is the 200-meter-long light tunnel “Hana Corridor.” The colors change with the seasons, creating an immersive feeling as if you are walking inside a kaleidoscope. Additionally, at the waterside illumination “Light Sea,” the reflection of lights on the pond’s water surface creates a fantastical double world.
Event Period: October 18, 2025 – May 31, 2026
Lighting Time: After sunset – 21:00 (varies by season)
Admission Fee: Adults from 2,500 yen (varies by season)
Number of LED Bulbs: Approximately 8.5 million bulbs (approximately 5.8 million bulbs during the Tulip Festival period)
Access: About 10 minutes by car from Kintetsu Nagashima Station, direct bus available from Nagoya Station
Attraction Points of Nabana no Sato
Extraordinary parking facilities: With 5,700 free parking spaces, you can visit with confidence even with large vehicles or camper vans. The ability to park relatively smoothly even on weekends is a major strength that other facilities do not have.
Abundant gourmet options: Inside the park, there are Nagashima Beer Garden and local beer restaurants where you can enjoy dishes made with local ingredients from Mie. Since the vouchers can be used at restaurants and shops within the park, it is economical to budget for meals as a set.
Synergy with Begonia Garden: The admission fee includes admission to the “Begonia Garden,” the largest greenhouse in Japan, allowing you to visit during the day to enjoy the flowers and then move on to the illuminations in the evening for a full-day course.
Tips for Visiting
Tuesdays and Wednesdays on weekdays are relatively less crowded, allowing you to take photos and stroll leisurely. Especially right after opening at 16:30-17:00, there are fewer people, giving you a chance to experience the moment of lighting in the front row.
2. Izu Kogen Gran Illumine (Ito City, Shizuoka Prefecture) – Evolved Experiential Illumination in the 11th Season
“Granpal Park” Transforms at Night
Izu Kogen Gran Illumine is synonymous with experiential illuminations held at Izu Granpal Park. The 11th season starting November 7, 2025, has added new interactive elements, evolving into an illumination that you can “experience” rather than just “see.”
The main feature is the 110-meter-long experiential illumination “Gran Illumi Walk.” The sensation of being surrounded by light 360 degrees from foot to overhead is an immersive experience you can’t find anywhere else. Additionally, the “Zipline – Kaze -” that glides through the light is a popular attraction where thrill and fantasy merge.
Event Period: November 7, 2025 – End of February 2026 (planned)
Lighting Time: 17:30 – 21:30 (day/night changeover system)
Admission Fee: Adults 1,800 yen, Elementary students 1,000 yen (2024 record) Click here for details
Number of LED Bulbs: Approximately 4 million bulbs
Access: About 10 minutes by Tokai Bus or taxi from Ito Station
Attraction Points of Izu Kogen Gran Illumine
Moving light experiences: With experiences that involve movement, such as the light go-kart “Racing Illumi” and the “Gran Illumi Train” that runs through the illuminations, visitors from children to adults can enjoy without getting bored.
Combination with hot spring resorts: The Izu Kogen area is rich in hot spring accommodations. Plans to warm up in a hot spring after viewing the illuminations are popular, and the location is easy to incorporate into a 2-day, 1-night sightseeing route.
Mt. Fuji viewpoint: If the weather is good, there are scenic spots where you can see the silhouette of Mt. Fuji through the illuminations, making it a famous photo spot.
Tips for Visiting
Since it is a day/night changeover system, using only the night session is efficient. Right after opening at 17:30-18:30 is the least crowded, and wait times for popular experiential attractions are shorter. On weekends, purchasing online tickets in advance allows you to avoid the queue at the ticket booth on the day.
3. Azumino National Government Park (Azumino City, Nagano Prefecture) – Forest of Light Overlooking the Northern Alps
Harmony of Majestic Nature and Light
Azumino National Government Park hosts “All of the Stars” in its vast grounds with the Northern Alps mountains as a backdrop. With the scale befitting a national government park, approximately 4 million LEDs illuminate the forests and plazas within the park.
Particularly noteworthy is the 8-meter-high symbol tree and the “Light Wave” that spreads around it. The performance where the lights undulate to music creates an emotional experience combined with the natural scenery.
Event Period: November 1, 2025 – January 31, 2026
Lighting Time: 16:00 – 21:00
Admission Fee: Adults 450 yen, Seniors (65 years and older) 210 yen, Children and infants free
Number of LED Bulbs: Approximately 4 million bulbs
Access: About 20 minutes from Azumino IC on the Nagano Expressway
Attraction Points of Azumino Park Illumination
Overwhelming cost performance: Because it is a national government park, the admission fee is very reasonable. Even for a family of four, you can enjoy it for about 1,000 yen, which is a major attraction.
Leisurely viewing in vast grounds: Since the lights are scattered throughout the vast 54-hectare grounds, you can stroll leisurely without feeling crowded. There are many benches and terraces, so you can enjoy at your own pace while taking breaks.
Combination with winter nature experiences: The Azumino area has beautiful clear winter air, and during the day, you can combine it with nature experiences such as snowshoeing, Northern Alps mountaineering, and hot spring tours.
Tips for Visiting
Weekday evenings, especially Mondays and Thursdays around 18:00-19:00, are the least crowded times. Since the national park closes at 21:00, it is recommended to arrive before 19:00 to allow time to view the entire grounds. In winter, prepare for temperatures below freezing, especially on clear days.
4. Tokinosumika Illumination “Hikari no Sumika” (Gotemba City, Shizuoka Prefecture) – Magical Forest at the Foot of Mt. Fuji
Japan’s Largest Light Show with Mt. Fuji as a Backdrop
Tokinosumika “Hikari no Sumika” is an illumination event held at the foot of Mt. Fuji. This spot is unique in that you can enjoy the illuminations with Mt. Fuji in the background. Approximately 5 million LEDs decorate the vast grounds, and the light tunnel stretching 450 meters is particularly breathtaking.
The “Royal Light Symphony” is a must-see, where lights and music synchronize to create a moving performance. The choreographed lights that move to classical music provide an overwhelming sense of unity not found at other spots.
Event Period: October 11, 2025 – March 9, 2026
Lighting Time: 16:30 – 22:00 (until 21:00 on weekdays)
Admission Fee: Free
Number of LED Bulbs: Approximately 5 million bulbs
Access: About 25 minutes by shuttle bus from JR Gotemba Station, 10 minutes from Shin-Tomei Expressway Gotemba IC
Attraction Points of Tokinosumika
Admission is free: This is the biggest attraction. Although some attractions are charged, you can fully enjoy the illuminations without an admission fee, making it friendly to families and groups.
Mt. Fuji photo spots: On clear winter days, especially from December to February, you can capture the illuminations with Mt. Fuji as a backdrop. This view is only possible at the foot of Mt. Fuji, making it a highlight for photography enthusiasts.
Complete hot spring facilities: The grounds have a day-trip hot spring facility, allowing you to warm up after viewing. A course of viewing the illuminations followed by a hot spring soak is especially popular in winter.
Tips for Visiting
Since admission is free and it’s a popular spot, weekends can be crowded. Weekdays are recommended, and in particular, early in the week (Monday-Wednesday) is less crowded. For winter Mt. Fuji photos, aim for clear mornings from December to February, especially around sunset (16:30-17:30), when the chance of capturing Mt. Fuji is high.
5. Hamamatsu Fruit Park Tokinosumika (Hamamatsu City, Shizuoka Prefecture) – A Special Night Where the Orchard Shines
Light Productions Unique to a Fruit Park
Hamamatsu Fruit Park Tokinosumika is a unique illumination spot where an orchard transforms into a light art space. The 2025-2026 season features approximately 3 million LED decorations, with light productions that reflect the characteristics of fruit trees.
A highlight is the “Fruit Illumination” where fruit trees themselves are decorated with lights, creating a fantastical atmosphere as if the orchard has transformed into a fairy tale world. Additionally, the light tunnel and projection mapping captivate visitors with visuals never seen at other illumination spots.
Event Period: November 1, 2025 – January 5, 2026
Lighting Time: 17:00 – 21:00
Admission Fee: Adults (high school students and above) 800 yen, Children (elementary and junior high school students) 250 yen, Infants free
Number of LED Bulbs: Approximately 3 million bulbs
Access: About 30 minutes by car from JR Hamamatsu Station
Attraction Points of Hamamatsu Fruit Park
Dual enjoyment of fruit picking and illuminations: During the day, you can enjoy fruit picking (strawberries, apples, etc. depending on the season), and at night, enjoy the illuminations. It’s a spot where you can have a fulfilling day all in one place.
Family-friendly facilities: There are playgrounds and restaurants, making it possible for families with children to spend the whole day there. Food menus using local fruits are also popular.
Natural beauty combined with light: Located in the mountainous area of Hamamatsu City, the fresh air allows you to enjoy the illuminations in a natural setting away from the city.
Tips for Visiting
It is efficient to visit during the day for fruit picking and shopping, then enjoy the illuminations in the evening. Weekday evenings are recommended to avoid crowds. During the winter season, the cold can be severe in the mountainous area, so warm clothing is essential.
6. Anjo Industrial Culture Park Denpark (Anjo City, Aichi Prefecture) – A Light Amusement Park for the Whole Family
A Winter Night When the Danish Townscape Shines
Denpark is a theme park modeled after Denmark, and in winter, it transforms into a light fairy tale town. The 2025-2026 “Winter Illumination” features decorations with approximately 500,000 bulbs, illuminating Danish-style buildings and windmills.
The highlight is the illuminations of the windmill and water mill, which create a fantastical European townscape at night. There are also photo spots perfect for families and couples, making it an instagrammable location.
Event Period: November 22, 2025 – January 5, 2026
Lighting Time: 17:00 – 21:00
Admission Fee: Adults 700 yen, Children (elementary and junior high school students) 300 yen
Number of LED Bulbs: Approximately 500,000 bulbs
Access: About 15 minutes by bus from JR Anjo Station
Attraction Points of Denpark
Photo-friendly for families: The Danish-style architecture and illuminations create a European atmosphere, making it a popular spot for family photos and souvenir photos.
Warm indoor facilities: There are heated indoor rest areas and restaurants, so even small children and elderly people can take breaks and stay comfortable.
Events and workshops: During the illumination period, various events such as live music and craft workshops are held, offering more than just illumination viewing.
Tips for Visiting
The park itself is not very large, so you can fully enjoy it in about 2 hours. Weekday evenings are less crowded, making it ideal for leisurely photography. During the winter season from late December to early January, special events are held, so check the official website for schedules.
7. Kisosansen National Government Park (Kaizu City, Gifu Prefecture) – 2 Million Bulbs of Brilliance to Enjoy for Free
A Light Pageant Coloring the Vast River Park
Kisosansen National Government Park is a vast park with the Kiso, Nagara, and Ibi rivers flowing through it. In winter, “Winter Illumination” is held, lighting up the park with approximately 2 million LED bulbs.
The biggest feature is that admission is free, and parking is also free. You can fully enjoy the large-scale illuminations that would normally cost thousands of yen at other facilities for free, making it extremely cost-effective.
Event Period: Late November 2025 – Late December 2025 (exact dates to be determined)
Lighting Time: 16:30 – 21:00
Admission Fee: Free
Number of LED Bulbs: Approximately 2 million bulbs
Access: About 20 minutes from Tokai-Kanjo Expressway Yoro IC
Attraction Points of Kisosansen Park
Completely free of charge: Both admission and parking are free, making it the most economical illumination spot in the Chubu region. There is no charge to fully enjoy the large-scale illuminations.
Viewing from a 65-meter observation tower: From the park’s symbol, the 65-meter observation tower, you can view the entire illumination site from above. The panoramic view of lights spreading out below is a breathtaking sight.
Combination with river views: With the Kiso, Nagara, and Ibi rivers in the background, you can enjoy the unique landscape of the river park, different from other spots. During the day, you can enjoy cycling and walking along the riverside.
Tips for Visiting
Since it’s free, weekends can be crowded. Weekday evenings are the best choice for a leisurely viewing experience. Don’t miss the illuminations viewed from the observation tower. The observation tower viewing time is until 20:30, so go up early.
Practical Guide to Viewing Illuminations
Clothing and Items to Bring
Winter illuminations in the Chubu region are often held outdoors, and the cold can be severe, especially from December to February. Here are recommended clothing and items:
- Layered warm clothing: Down jackets, fleece, and heat-tech innerwear are essentials. Temperatures can drop below freezing in mountainous areas
- Gloves, scarf, knit hat: Protecting extremities is important, especially when standing still to take photos
- Comfortable walking shoes: You’ll walk a lot at illumination spots. Sneakers or walking shoes with good cushioning are recommended
- Disposable body warmers: Stick them on your back and waist for additional warmth
- Mobile battery: Essential as smartphone battery drains quickly when taking photos
- Water bottle: Bringing a warm drink helps warm you up during breaks
Photography Techniques
Tips for taking beautiful illumination photos even with a smartphone:
- Use night mode: Using iPhone’s “Night Mode” or Android’s “Night Sight Mode” allows you to take bright photos while suppressing camera shake
- Turn on HDR function: For illuminations with large contrast, HDR balances bright and dark areas
- For portrait shots, use flash lightly: Strong flash will wash out the background illuminations. Adjust the flash to be weak or to illuminate only faces
- Use a tripod or stabilization: Even a 100-yen shop mini tripod can significantly reduce camera shake
Tips for Avoiding Crowds
- Weekday evenings are best: Tuesday and Wednesday from 18:00-19:30 are the least crowded times
- Aim for right after opening: From 16:30-17:30 when lighting starts, there are fewer people and it’s easier to secure photo spots
- Avoid right before Christmas: After December 20 is the most crowded, so visiting in November or January is recommended
- Use online reservations: Purchasing tickets in advance allows you to avoid ticket booth queues on the day
Accommodation Package Plans
Around each spot, there are abundant accommodation plans that include illumination viewing.
- Nabana no Sato: “Hotel Nagashima” and “Garden Hotel Olive” in Nagashima Onsen offer plans with admission tickets included
- Gotemba Tokinosumika: Staying at “Hotel Tokinosumika” on the grounds allows you to stay until late at night
- Izu Kogen: Many nearby hot spring inns allow you to relax in hot springs after viewing illuminations
- Azumino: At “Hotaka Onsen Village” and “Omachi Onsen Village,” enjoy Northern Alps nature and hot springs
Information for Camper Van and RV Travelers
Illumination spots in the Chubu region are also ideal for touring trips with camper vans.
Spots with High RV Compatibility
Nabana no Sato: The 5,700-space free parking lot can accommodate large RVs with plenty of room. However, overnight car camping is not officially recommended, so use nearby RV parks (such as “Yuami no Shima” near Nagashima Onsen).
Azumino National Government Park: There is a vast parking lot, but as a national park, it is closed at night. Nearby “Michi-no-Eki Azumino Matsukawa” and “Michi-no-Eki Utsukushigahara Kogen” are convenient as bases for RV overnight stays.
Tokinosumika: The parking lot is large and accommodates large vehicles. There are hot spring facilities on the grounds, so bathing is also possible.
Recommended Touring Route
3 Nights 4 Days Complete Chubu Illumination Tour
- Day 1: Arrive in Nagoya → Nabana no Sato (Kuwana City, Mie Prefecture) → Stay at Nagashima Onsen RV Park
- Day 2: Kisosansen Park (Kaizu City, Gifu Prefecture) → Denpark (Anjo City, Aichi Prefecture) → Stay at Hamamatsu City RV Park
- Day 3: Hamamatsu Fruit Park Tokinosumika → Gotemba Tokinosumika “Hikari no Sumika” → Stay at Gotemba City RV Park
- Day 4: Izu Kogen Gran Illumine → Return journey
This route allows you to efficiently tour the major illuminations in the Chubu region.
✨ Chubu Region Illumination FAQ
Summary: Trends for the 2025-2026 Season
This season’s Chubu region illuminations have three prominent trends.
1. Full Implementation of Environmentally Conscious LEDs
All spots have standardized LED lighting, reducing power consumption by approximately 80% compared to conventional methods. As sustainable tourism, it also appeals to eco-conscious travelers.
2. Increase in Experiential and Interactive Productions
As represented by Izu Kogen Gran Illumine, illuminations that you can “experience” rather than just “see” are becoming mainstream. Productions that engage the five senses are increasing, such as walking through light, synchronizing light with music, and touching light.
3. Thorough Online Reservations and Crowd Mitigation
Due to the effects of COVID-19, advance reservation systems have become established. Particularly popular spots have introduced complete reservation systems, aiming to distribute visitors and provide a comfortable viewing environment.
Winter illuminations in the Chubu region are light art spaces where majestic nature and the latest technology merge, offering experiences you can’t find anywhere else. From the overwhelming scale of Nabana no Sato, experiential productions of Izu Kogen, harmony with nature in Azumino, Mt. Fuji views in Gotemba, to the free Kisosansen Park, there are diverse options available.
This winter, why not visit the world of light in the Chubu region with your loved ones? A special night that will become a lifelong memory surely awaits you.
Please be sure to check the official website of each facility for the latest information. Schedules may change depending on weather and infectious disease conditions.
