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November 1, 2025 at 4:30 pm
Event date:
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January 31, 2026 at 9:00 pm
Event end:
History
Azumino National Government Park, located in Nagano Prefecture, is renowned for its seasonal attractions and family-friendly activities. The park’s winter illumination tradition began as a small-scale light-up event, designed to bring warmth and magic to the cold Nagano winters.
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Contact Jasumo Now →Over the years, the illumination display has grown to become the largest event of its kind in the prefecture. With hundreds of thousands of lights decorating the park grounds, the event attracts both local residents and tourists from across Japan.
Today, the Azumino Park Illuminations are recognized as one of the region’s premier winter attractions, blending technology, art, and nature. Visitors can enjoy a combination of creative lighting designs, music, and interactive experiences, making it a truly immersive seasonal event.
Overview
The 2025-2026 season will see Azumino Park come alive from early November through the end of January. Visitors can stroll through pathways illuminated by approximately 700,000 sparkling lights, with many areas featuring synchronized music and themed displays.
A special highlight this year includes an augmented reality (AR) experience. By scanning a 2D barcode with their smartphone, guests can see Arukuma, Nagano’s beloved mascot, “appear” throughout the park, adding an interactive and whimsical element to the evening.
Whether you are visiting for a romantic night, a family outing, or a solo adventure, the illumination event promises magical moments and spectacular photo opportunities for all ages.
Highlights
- Around 700,000 dazzling lights decorate the park grounds
- Synchronized music and themed illumination areas for immersive experiences
- Augmented reality (AR) encounters featuring Nagano’s mascot, Arukuma
- Evening strolls from 16:30 to 21:00 daily, perfect for photos and social media sharing
- Special weekend shuttle services from Toyoshina Station for convenient access
Why Jasumo Recommends?
- One of Nagano Prefecture’s largest and most famous winter illumination events
- Interactive AR experiences make the visit unique and fun for all ages
- Ideal for family visits, date nights, or solo exploration of winter magic
- Easy access via public transport or car, with shuttle services on weekends
- Affordable admission at just ¥450 for adults, offering exceptional value for a memorable evening
If you are traveling to Japan or already in the country and need assistance with transportation, custom tours, ticket bookings, or other travel services, contact Jasumo through our contact page. We can help plan your full Nagano experience.
Schedule
Dates: November 1, 2025 – January 31, 2026
Time: 16:30 – 21:00 daily
Duration: Each visit typically lasts 1–2 hours, depending on how much of the park you explore
Visitors are advised to check the official park schedule for weekend fireworks or special events during the illumination period.
Pricing
Adult (aged 15+): ¥450
Senior (aged 65+): ¥210
Child (14 and under): Free
The admission fee covers full access to the illuminated areas and standard park facilities during the event.
Location
Venue: Alps Azumino National Government Park – Horigane Hotaka Area
Address: 1-1 Horigane Hotaka, Azumino, Nagano Prefecture, Japan
How to Get There:
- By Car: About 20 minutes from Azumino IC on the Nagano Expressway
- By Public Transport: Approximately 10 minutes by taxi from Toyoshina Station on the JR Ōito Line
- Shuttle Service: Free shuttle bus runs from Toyoshina Station on Saturdays, Sundays, and holidays during the illumination period
Accommodation Options
Visitors to Azumino can choose from a variety of accommodations in Nagano and nearby Azumino areas. Options include local ryokans, budget-friendly hostels, and mid-range hotels that offer comfortable stays for families, couples, or solo travelers.
Average room rates range from ¥8,000 to ¥18,000 per night, depending on proximity to the park and type of accommodation. Staying nearby allows easy access to the illumination event and other winter attractions in Nagano.
FAQs
When is the Azumino Park Illuminations 2025-2026?
The event runs from November 1, 2025, to January 31, 2026, with lights on daily from 16:30 to 21:00.
How much does it cost to enter?
Adult admission is ¥450, seniors pay ¥210, and children 14 and under enter for free.
Can I use public transport to reach the park?
Yes, visitors can take the JR Ōito Line to Toyoshina Station and then a 10-minute taxi ride. A free shuttle runs from the station on weekends and holidays during the event.
Are there any special activities at the illumination?
Yes, the event features AR experiences with Arukuma, music-synchronized light displays, and occasional weekend fireworks.
Is the event family-friendly?
Absolutely. The park illuminations are suitable for all ages, offering fun interactive experiences for children, romantic settings for couples, and memorable moments for solo visitors.
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