If you know Japan, you know that winter is a special time of year. What makes winter in Japan truly unique isn’t just the festivals, Christmas, or New Year’s celebrations—cities across the country come alive with breathtaking light and illumination events.
Just a 45-minute ride from our office, you can experience one of Kansai’s most iconic winter illuminations: Kobe Luminarie. If you love dazzling lights, beautiful architecture, and delicious sweets, you’re in for a real treat.
What is Kobe Luminarie?
Kobe Luminarie is one of Japan’s most famous winter illumination events, held every year in Kobe City, Hyogo Prefecture. The word “Luminarie” is Italian . It refers to a traditional Italian light installation made by attaching colorful bulbs to large wooden frames. The artistic beauty and size of these illuminated structures create an unforgettable and breathtaking atmosphere for viewers. Kobe Luminarie was first held f in December 1995, the same year of the Great Hanshin-Awaji Earthquake, which occurred in January. Kobe Luminarie was created to honor the victims, and preserve the memory of the disaster for future generations. For the people of Japan and the city of Kobe, Luminarie means more than pretty lights; it is a meaningful event filled with remembrance for victims of a tragic natural disaster.
When is Luminarie held?
This year marks the 31st Kobe Luminarie, and Kobe will be displaying lights throught the following time period:
- Event Period: Friday, January 30th, 2026–Sunday, February 8th, 2026
- Lighting Hours: From dusk until 9:30 PM
In past years, the event was held in December, but due to the cold weather, the dates have been adjusted to recently, late January to early February. It still can get quite cold during this time, so be sure to dress warmly!
Where is it held?
The main venues are located in Chuo Ward, Kobe City, across the following three areas:
- Higashi Yuenchi Park (Main Venue)
- Former Foreign Settlement (Kyukyoryuchi)
- Meriken Park (some areas charge admission fees)
Each venue features different designs of illuminated corridors and monuments, allowing visitors to enjoy a different experience at each location in the city.One of the biggest highlights is the stunning “Corridor of Light (Galleria)” in Meriken Park!
At Meriken Park, you can also enjoy light performances and effects synchronized with music. Another must-see location is the symbolic installation at Higashi Yuenchi Park called “Spalliera.” While the Galleria creates a straight “tunnel of light,” Spalliera surrounds an open space, transforming it into a magical “plaza of light” that feels immersive.
※Please note that some areas (such as the Galleria at Meriken Park) may require a paid ticket. If you’d like to take your time and enjoy the displays peacefully, we recommend reserving in advance!
Enjoy Even More! Food Recommendations
After enjoying the illuminations, why not treat yourself to some of Kobe’s famous local food?
- Street food in Nankinmachi (Kobe Chinatown): Located within walking distance of the venues. Hot pork buns and soup dumplings are perfect for a chilly winter night.It is the perfect spot for those who want to soak up the lively atmosphere of the street stalls in a casual setting.
- Kobe Beef: Since you’re in Kobe, it’s the perfect chance to splurge a little and enjoy world-famous Kobe beef steak.
- Stylish cafés: The former foreign settlement area is full of retro-modern cafés, many located inside beautiful historic buildings. After enjoying the lights, it’s a great place to relax with a warm drink.
For a more sit-down experience, the popular bakery cafe “TOOTH TOOTH FISH IN THE FOREST” in Meriken Park is hosting a special dinner buffet exclusively during the Kobe Luminarie period. The highlight of this event is their famous homemade bread buffet, which is usually only available during lunch hours but will be served throughout dinner for this limited time. You can indulge in a luxurious selection of dishes alongside their signature artisanal breads. With a stunning location overlooking Kobe’s beautiful nightscape, why not treat yourself to a magical evening of gourmet food while basking in the afterglow of the breathtaking illuminations?
Message
Great ideas are born when both work and private life are fulfilling. This winter, why not experience the magical lights of Kobe Luminarie with someone special?Kobe is such a short trip from Osaka, so we hope you’ll take the opportunity to visit and enjoy this unforgettable winter tradition!
