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October 24, 2025 at 4:00 pm
Event date:
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May 24, 2026 at 10:00 pm
Event end:
History
The Okinawa Tropical Illuminations began in 2001 as a modest winter light display at the Southeast Botanical Gardens (then called Okinawa Chura Island Park). The goal was to extend the tourist season beyond summer beaches by showcasing Okinawa’s unique subtropical flora under millions of LEDs.
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Contact Jasumo Now →The event exploded in popularity after introducing large-scale themed zones like Hikari no Umi (Sea of Light) and the Castle of Light, earning consistent top rankings in Japan’s national illumination polls (often #1 or #2). The gardens themselves opened in 1999 on former sugarcane land, planting over 2,000 species of tropical plants and creating animal zones to educate visitors about Okinawa’s biodiversity.
Now in its 25th year, the illumination has grown into one of Japan’s longest-running (8 months!) and most awarded light shows, blending cutting-edge technology with the island’s natural warmth—palm trees wrapped in lights, lotus ponds glowing at night, and Mount Fuji-sized installations that feel distinctly Okinawan.
Overview
The Okinawa Tropical Illuminations 2025-2026 runs from October 24, 2025 to May 24, 2026 at Southeast Botanical Gardens in Okinawa City. Millions of LEDs transform 50+ hectares of tropical jungle into a glowing paradise, with themed zones celebrating Okinawa’s ocean, flora, and culture.
Highlights include the Tropical Christmas Tree covered in butterflies and hibiscus, the marine-inspired Hikari no Umi, the majestic Castle of Light, and the award-winning Lotus of Light display. Day visitors can stay for the lights with a 1-Day Pass, while evening tickets grant access from 4:30 PM. Animal zones and the Yasshi Adventure bus stay open late, making it perfect for families.
Highlights
- Tropical Christmas Tree: Towering tree wrapped in butterflies, flowers, and Okinawan motifs.
- Hikari no Umi (Sea of Light): Marine-themed zone with glowing coral, fish, and wave effects.
- Castle of Light: Royal palace illusion with turrets, bridges, and cascading lights.
- Lotus of Light: Award-winning floating lotus installation over the pond.
- Yasshi Adventure Bus: Nighttime tour through illuminated jungle (separate fee).
Why Jasumo Recommends?
- Tropical Christmas Tree: Towering tree wrapped in butterflies, flowers, and Okinawan motifs.
- Hikari no Umi (Sea of Light): Marine-themed zone with glowing coral, fish, and wave effects.
- Castle of Light: Royal palace illusion with turrets, bridges, and cascading lights.
- Lotus of Light: Award-winning floating lotus installation over the pond.
- Yasshi Adventure Bus: Nighttime tour through illuminated jungle (separate fee).
If you’re coming to Japan or already in Japan, Jasumo can secure 1-Day Passes, Yasshi Adventure tickets, dinner reservations, and more. Just contact us using the contact page.
Schedule
October 24, 2025 – May 24, 2026
- Illumination Hours: 5:00 PM – 10:00 PM (last entry 9:30 PM)
- Day + Night Access: From 4:30 PM with evening ticket or all day with 1-Day Pass
Pricing
- Evening Ticket (4:30 PM entry): Adults (15+): ¥2,500 Children (4–14): ¥900 Under 4: Free
- Peak Period Surcharge (Dec 20–Jan 4 & Jan 10–12): +¥300–¥500
- 1-Day Pass (all-day + lights): Higher, includes animal zones
Location
Southeast Botanical Gardens 2146 Chibana, Okinawa City, Okinawa 904-2143, Japan
How to Get There
- By Car (Recommended): – 45 min from Naha via Okinawa Expressway → Okinawa Kita IC – Parking: 350 spaces (¥500–¥1,000)
- By Bus: – From Naha Bus Terminal → #90 to “Okinawashi Nomin Kenshu Center-mae” → 5-min taxi
- From Okinawa City: 15 min drive
Accommodation Options
Okinawa City hotels range ¥10,000–¥25,000. Resorts near American Village (15 min drive) offer beachfront stays from ¥20,000–¥60,000.
Northern Okinawa luxury resorts (30–45 min) with private beaches start ¥35,000+. Book early for Christmas–New Year and Golden Week (late April–early May).
FAQs
When does the 2025-2026 season officially start?
October 24, 2025—one of Japan’s earliest illuminations.
Is the 1-Day Pass worth it?
Yes if arriving early—includes animal feeding, botanical gardens, and no rush for the lights.
When is peak pricing?
December 20 – January 4 and January 10–12 (Coming-of-Age weekend)—expect +¥300–¥500 surcharge.
Best time for photos?
January–February—cooler weather, fewer crowds, and clearest skies for Mt. Fuji views from northern Okinawa.
Can I see cherry blossoms during the illumination?
Yes—in late January (northern Okinawa’s Ryukyu cherry season) and again in late March (mainland-style sakura near Naha).
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