Nabana no Sato Illumination 2025-2026

• October 18, 2025 at 9:00 am
  Event date:
• May 31, 2026 at 10:00 pm
  Event end:

History

Nabana no Sato began in 1998 when local farmer Nagashima Farm repurposed a 10-hectare vegetable field into a year-round flower park, planting thousands of seasonal blooms to attract visitors beyond harvest season. The name “Nabana” comes from nanohana (rapeseed blossoms), which carpet the grounds in brilliant yellow each spring.

The winter illumination debuted in 2003 with a modest 500,000 bulbs along the central pathway. Visitor demand exploded, leading to annual expansions—1 million bulbs by 2005, 3 million by 2010, and now over 8 million LEDs across the entire park. The introduction of the 200-meter Tunnel of Light in 2007 became an instant icon, drawing couples nationwide.

In 2012, Nabana no Sato claimed the title of Japan’s #1 Illumination in a national user poll—a crown it has worn for over a decade. The park pioneered large-scale themed light fields synchronized with music and motion, setting the standard for modern Japanese winter light shows. Past themes have included “Alps,” “Sakura,” “Aurora,” and “Ocean,” each using millions of LEDs to recreate natural wonders.

The 2025-2026 season’s “ZIPANG” theme marks the most ambitious display yet—celebrating Japan’s mythical and cultural heritage with dynamic light choreography, water effects, and storytelling on a scale never seen before at the park.

Overview

The Nabana no Sato Illumination 2025-2026 runs from October 18, 2025 to May 31, 2026—one of the longest illumination seasons in Japan, spanning over 220 nights. Located in Kuwana, Mie Prefecture, just 30 minutes from Nagoya, the park transforms into a glowing wonderland powered by over 8 million LED bulbs.

The centerpiece is the “ZIPANG” main theme area, a massive, evolving light field that uses cutting-edge projection mapping, synchronized fountains, and sound to depict Japan’s legendary landscapes—from sacred Mount Fuji to ancient cherry-blossom valleys and mythical dragon rivers.

Visitors enter through the 200-meter Tunnel of Light, stroll along the River of Light reflecting in mirror-like ponds, and explore smaller installations among real flower gardens. The indoor Andes Begonia Garden offers a warm, tropical escape, while free open-air footbath onsen let you soak under the stars.

Admission includes a ¥1,000 voucher redeemable at restaurants, cafés, and shops—effectively reducing the cost to ¥1,300. Note: December 23–25 requires advance tickets only—no on-site sales.

Highlights

• “ZIPANG” Main Theme Area: Japan’s largest dynamic illumination field—telling the story of Japan through light, water, and music.
• 200-Meter Tunnel of Light: Iconic golden corridor—Japan’s most romantic photo spot.
• River of Light & Sea of Clouds: Mirror ponds and mist effects creating surreal reflections.
• Andes Begonia Garden: Year-round tropical greenhouse with vibrant blooms—a warm retreat in winter.
• Free Footbath Onsen: Soak your feet in natural hot springs while surrounded by twinkling lights.

Why Jasumo Recommends?

• “ZIPANG” Main Theme Area: Japan’s largest dynamic illumination field—telling the story of Japan through light, water, and music.
• 200-Meter Tunnel of Light: Iconic golden corridor—Japan’s most romantic photo spot.
• River of Light & Sea of Clouds: Mirror ponds and mist effects creating surreal reflections.
• Andes Begonia Garden: Year-round tropical greenhouse with vibrant blooms—a warm retreat in winter.
• Free Footbath Onsen: Soak your feet in natural hot springs while surrounded by twinkling lights.

If you’re coming to Japan or already in Japan, Jasumo can secure advance Christmas tickets, arrange private transfers from Nagoya, reserve dinner at the Beer Garden, and more. Just contact us using the contact page.

Schedule

October 18, 2025 – May 31, 2026

• Weekdays: 9:00 AM – 9:00 PM
• Weekends & Holidays: 9:00 AM – 10:00 PM
• Lights activate shortly after sunset (~5:00–6:30 PM depending on season)

Pricing

• Standard Admission: ¥2,300 (includes ¥1,000 park voucher)
• Peak Periods (weekends, holidays, Golden Week): ¥2,500–¥3,000 (includes ¥1,000 voucher)
• December 23–25: Advance tickets required — no same-day entry
• Children (elementary & under): ¥1,000 (includes ¥500 voucher)

Location

Nabana no Sato 270 Urushibata, Nagashima-cho, Kuwana, Mie 511-1144, Japan

How to Get There

• From Nagoya Station: – Kintetsu Line to Kuwana Station (20–30 min) → direct Sanko Bus (10 min) to Nabana no Sato
• From Nagashima Spa Land / Outlet: Free shuttle bus (5–10 min)
• By Car: 15 min from Nagashima IC (Isewangan Expressway) – Parking: ¥1,000/vehicle (free for hotel guests)

Accommodation Options

Nagashima Resort (on-site) offers luxury hotels with illumination views and unlimited onsen access:

• Hotel Hanamizuki / Nagi / Olive: ¥25,000–¥70,000/person (incl. dinner & breakfast)
• Garden Hotel Olive: Family-friendly with kids’ facilities

Kuwana/Nagoya (30 min away):

• Business hotels: ¥7,000–¥15,000
• Nagoya Station area: ¥8,000–¥50,000 (wider selection)

Book 6–12 months ahead for December–February—especially Christmas and Valentine’s.

FAQs

Do I need advance tickets for Christmas?

Yes—December 23, 24, and 25 require pre-booked tickets only. No walk-ins allowed.

Is the ¥1,000 voucher worth it?

Absolutely—usable at all restaurants, cafés, beer garden, and souvenir shops. Most visitors use it fully.

When is the least crowded time?

January–March weekdays—still stunning, far fewer people. Avoid weekends and December 20–January 5.

Is it worth visiting after cherry blossom season?

Yes—the lights continue through Golden Week (May), paired with real tulips, nemophila, and roses in bloom.

Can I combine with Nagashima Spa Land or Outlet?

Yes—combo tickets save ¥500–¥1,000. The outlet mall is a 5-min shuttle away—perfect for daytime shopping, evening lights.

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