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November 11, 2025 at 5:00 pm
Event date:
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March 20, 2026 at 12:00 am
Event end:
History
Mihama American Village opened in 1998 on land returned by the U.S. military in Chatan, Okinawa, transforming a former base area into a vibrant entertainment and shopping district modeled after a California seaside town. Its pastel buildings, palm-lined streets, and oceanfront location were designed to blend American pop culture with Okinawan hospitality, quickly making it a landmark for both locals and tourists.
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Contact Jasumo Now →The winter illumination tradition began shortly after opening, evolving into one of the island’s longest-running light-up events. Each year the entire district is wrapped in millions of LEDs, blending classic American Christmas motifs with tropical Okinawan flair. The event has grown to cover the full complex, including the landmark Ferris wheel and Depot Island waterfront.
Over the decades, the illumination has become a symbol of post-reversion cultural fusion, celebrating Okinawa’s unique identity while embracing global holiday spirit. What started as modest string lights on a few shops now spans the entire 1.8-kilometer district, drawing over a million visitors annually.
Overview
The Mihama American Village Illumination 2025-2026 will run from mid-November 2025 to mid-March 2026, transforming the entire seaside complex into a dazzling Christmas wonderland. Millions of colorful lights adorn buildings, palm trees, streets, and the giant Ferris wheel, creating a vibrant nightscape visible from across Chatan.
The atmosphere mixes American holiday cheer—think giant Santa statues and candy-cane arches—with Okinawa’s laid-back resort vibe. Best of all, entry is completely free, and the lights stay on until midnight every night.
Highlights
- Massive Scale Lighting: Millions of LEDs covering every building, street, and palm tree in festive colors.
- Illuminated Ferris Wheel: The 65-meter wheel becomes a glowing centerpiece with changing patterns and colors.
- American-Style Christmas Decor: Oversized Santas, reindeer, snowmen, and neon signs for perfect Instagram shots.
- Waterfront Reflections: Lights shimmer across the ocean and Sunset Beach area at Depot Island.
- Shopping & Dining Under Lights: Over 100 stores, cafés, and restaurants stay open late in the glow.
Why Jasumo Recommends?
- Massive Scale Lighting: Millions of LEDs covering every building, street, and palm tree in festive colors.
- Illuminated Ferris Wheel: The 65-meter wheel becomes a glowing centerpiece with changing patterns and colors.
- American-Style Christmas Decor: Oversized Santas, reindeer, snowmen, and neon signs for perfect Instagram shots.
- Waterfront Reflections: Lights shimmer across the ocean and Sunset Beach area at Depot Island.
- Shopping & Dining Under Lights: Over 100 stores, cafés, and restaurants stay open late in the glow.
If you’re coming to Japan or already in Japan, Jasumo can help with custom Okinawa itineraries, private airport transfers, night photography tours, restaurant bookings, and more. Just contact us using the contact page.
Schedule
Mid-November 2025 to mid-March 2026
- Illumination Hours: 5:00 PM – 12:00 AM daily
- Lights typically switch on around November 15 and continue until March 15
Pricing
Completely free entry and viewing. No tickets required.
Location
Mihama American Village 9-2 Mihama, Chatan, Nakagami District, Okinawa 904-0115, Japan
How to Get There
- By Car: 30 minutes from Naha Airport; free parking available throughout the complex.
- By Bus: From Naha Bus Terminal → Bus 28 or 29 (40 minutes) → “Mihama American Village” stop.
- Taxi: About ¥2,500–¥3,000 from Naha city center.
Accommodation Options
Chatan and American Village area offer beachfront resorts and stylish hotels from ¥12,000–¥35,000 per night, many within walking distance of the lights. Luxury options like The Beach Tower Okinawa run ¥25,000–¥60,000.
Budget hotels and guesthouses start at ¥6,000–¥12,000, while Naha city (40 min drive) provides more choices from ¥7,000–¥50,000. Book early for Christmas–New Year and February weekends.
FAQs
When does the 2025-2026 illumination officially start?
The lights usually turn on around November 15, 2025, with a small opening ceremony. Exact date will be announced on the official website in autumn.
Is the illumination really free every night?
Yes—100% free every single night from 5 PM until midnight, including Christmas Eve, New Year, and weekends.
Does the Ferris wheel operate during the illumination?
Yes—rides continue into the night with panoramic views of the lit-up village and ocean (separate fee applies).
Are shops and restaurants open late?
Most stay open until 10 PM–12 AM, with many outdoor bars and food trucks running even later under the lights.
Is it crowded during Christmas and New Year?
Very much so on December 24–25 and December 31–January 1. Visit on weekdays or in January–March for a more relaxed experience.
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