Stretching over 200 meters, the champagne gold LED lights sparkle at the Nishi-Shinjuku Illumination Market.
Combine the trip with the free observation deck at Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building, plus its projection mapping every day from dusk till around 9 p.m.
What to expect
Expect illuminations, market stalls, food trucks, and a fun digital stamp rally. Stop by for an hour to try traditional Japanese foods like sushi, taiyaki, and ramen (for ¥600!) and perhaps pick up any last-minute presents. The lights are similar to the Omotesandō Illumination.
Don’t forget to check out nearby Shinjuku Twinkle Park.
There is also a special New Year’s Eve countdown event. Please note that on December 31 only the food trucks (not the market stalls) are open from 5 p.m. to 1 a.m.
How to get to Nishi-Shinjuku Illumination Market
The market is about a 10-minute walk from the West Exit of JR Shinjuku Station. Alternatively, you can take the Marunouchi Line to Nishi-Shinjuku Station and walk 10 minutes from there. You can also reach it by taking the Oedo Line to Tochomae Station.
For those coming by bus, take the Toei or Keio Bus from the West Exit of Shinjuku and get off at the Tokyo Metropolitan Government First Main Building.
