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Jewellumination: A Sparkling Winter Wonderland Near Tokyo

If you're looking for an unforgettable winter experience near Tokyo, Jewelluminations at Yomiuriland (よみうりランド) is a must-visit! Known for its breathtaking light displays designed by the world-renowned artist Motoko Ishii, Jewellumination transforms the theme park into a dazzling wonderland of light and color.

I was amazed by the beauty of the illuminations and highly recommend this visit for a romantic date or a family getaway near Tokyo in winter!

What is Jewelluminations and Why Visit?

Jewellumination is an annual winter illumination event held at Yomiuriland, a popular amusement park located less than an hour from central Tokyo. Featuring over 6.5 million LED lights, the event takes inspiration from precious gemstones, creating a sparkling spectacle that’s both romantic and awe-inspiring. It's like stepping straight into a fairy tale!

Each year, a new theme is chosen for Jewellumination. In 2024-2025, this season's theme is “LIGHT is LOVE Diamond 60 Celebration”, in honor of the 60th wedding anniversary, often referred to as the “Diamond Anniversary”. You can find more information about this year’s event on the official website of Jewellumination.

How to Get There?

Yomiuriland is easily accessible from central Tokyo in less than an hour. You can take the Keio line to Keio-Yomiuriland station (京王よみうりランド駅), followed by a short bus ride or a scenic cable car ride that offers views of the illuminated park below.

I recommend taking the cable car, as the first views of the park from above are quite spectacular and the round trip only costs ¥500. It's also very convenient, as the cable car is just a few minutes' walk from the station.

Highlights of Jewellumination

There’s something magical about wandering through Jewellumination. It’s not just about the lights—it’s the atmosphere, the creativity, and the little surprises around every corner. Here are some of the parts I loved the most when I visited in 2023.

Wandering Through the Different Illumination Areas

Strolling beneath the sparkling arches and through the aisles bathed in bright colors is like stepping into a fairytale. Each area is a unique light painting! Among my favorites were the majestic illumination of the Ferris wheel, as well as Jewellumination’s iconic light tunnel, which was redesigned this year for the first time in three years.

Enjoying Regular Snack Breaks

You'll find beautifully decorated food stalls around the park, where you can indulge in a variety of seasonal treats, such as hot cocoa and festive desserts. There's also all the typical Japanese street food, including karaage (fried chicken), soft serve and more.

If you prefer to dine in, there are also a few restaurants, including a restaurant near the entrance of the park serving dishes such as ramen and omurice.

Admiring the Fountain Show

Every 15 minutes, you can enjoy a fountain show at the Wave Pool, with water screen projections on a giant 15-meter ring, fountains, and effects created by lasers and flames.There are 3 different types of show, so be sure to check the schedule and stop by at least once! The first show starts at 5 p.m. and the last at 8.15 p.m.

When to Visit

Jewellumination typically runs from late October to early April, making it a great activity for those visiting Tokyo during the colder months. To fully enjoy the light displays, it’s best to visit after sunset. Weekday evenings are usually less crowded than weekends, allowing for a more relaxed experience. Whether you’re planning a romantic winter date night or a family outing, Jewellumination fits perfectly into a winter travel itinerary in Japan.

Tickets and Pricing

Yomiuriland offers several ticket options (the prices indicated below are for adult tickets):

  • Admission fee: ¥1,800 for the park admission fee only, if you only want to admire the illuminations but are not interested in doing many rides.

  • One Day Pass or After Pass (entrance after 3:00pm): ¥5,800 or ¥3,100, including entry to the park and unlimited rides on most attractions, making it ideal for those who want to enjoy the amusement park during the day and stay for the illuminations.

Advance booking can save you time and ensure availability during peak season. You can buy the After Pass and One Day Pass in advance on Klook.

Tips for Your Visit

1/ Dress Warmly: Winter evenings can be chilly, so wear layers and bring gloves to stay comfortable as you explore the park. Covering yourself in Japanese heat packs, known as kairo (カイロ), is also an option!

2/ Bring a Camera: With so many picturesque spots, you’ll want to capture the magic of Jewellumination. A camera with good low-light performance is ideal.

3/ Check the Event Map: Don't forget to pick up a map at the entrance detailing the lighting zones and show times.

To Conclude

Jewellumination truly is a winter dream come to life, combining the magic of gemstones with the artistry of light. Whether you’re here for the romantic atmosphere, the photo session, or simply to enjoy one of the best winter illuminations near Tokyo, it’s an experience you won’t forget. So if you’re planning your Tokyo winter itinerary, make sure Jewellumination is on your list!

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