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November 2, 2025 at 4:00 pm
Event date:
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January 3, 2026 at 5:00 pm
Event end:
History
Santa Hills, located in Nakagawa Town, Nasu District, Tochigi Prefecture, has long been known as a magical destination celebrating Christmas year-round. Established as a campsite with a café and a Christmas shop, Santa Hills gained popularity for its life-size Santa statues, festive décor, and family-friendly activities.
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Contact Jasumo Now →The illumination event started as a way to enhance the festive experience for visitors during the late autumn and early winter months. Over the years, the event has become a highlight in Tochigi Prefecture’s seasonal calendar, drawing visitors from across the region who want to experience the enchanting lights and holiday spirit.
Santa Hills Illumination combines the charm of traditional Christmas décor with modern light displays, creating a warm, magical environment for families, couples, and holiday enthusiasts. The event reflects the community’s love for Christmas celebrations and the desire to provide a memorable seasonal experience in a scenic natural setting.
Overview
The Santa Hills Illumination 2025-2026 will be held from November 2nd, 2025, to January 3rd, 2026, during the early evening hours from 4:00 PM to 5:00 PM. The illumination features a large, real Christmas tree adorned with fairy lights, accompanied by 20,000 additional lights strung across surrounding trees, fences, and reception areas.
Visitors can explore dedicated photo spots decorated with fairy lights, ideal for capturing festive memories. Guests of the campsite also have the chance to meet Santa Claus himself during the illumination event. Despite its remote location, Santa Hills attracts hundreds of visitors annually who come to enjoy the magical holiday atmosphere and unique Christmas-themed experience.
Highlights
- Large, real Christmas tree decorated with thousands of fairy lights
- 20,000 additional lights on trees, fences, and around the reception area
- Photo spots with special illumination setups for memorable holiday pictures
- Opportunity for Santa visits for campsite guests
- Family-friendly Christmas-themed activities in a scenic natural setting
Why Jasumo Recommends?
- Experience a magical Christmas-themed illumination in a scenic Tochigi location
- Perfect for families, couples, and photography enthusiasts
- Interactive photo spots and festive activities create memorable experiences
- No separate entry fee for illumination—accessible to the public
- Enjoy the combination of natural beauty, holiday lights, and Santa-themed charm
If you are visiting Japan or already here, Jasumo can assist with custom tours, transportation, ticket bookings, and more. Just contact us through our Contact Us page.
Schedule
- Dates: Saturday, November 2nd, 2025 – Friday, January 3rd, 2026
- Time: 4:00 PM – 5:00 PM daily (lighting hours may vary; check updates closer to the event)
Pricing
- Free Entry: The illumination is open to the public at no extra cost.
- Camping/Stays:
- Basic campsite spot: from ¥3,000 JPY per night
- Cabins: approximately ¥9,900 JPY per night
- Special Santa’s House: ¥25,000 JPY or more per night (advance booking recommended, especially in December)
Location
Venue: Santa Hills, 967 Miwa, Nakagawa, Nasu District, Tochigi Prefecture, Japan
How to Get There:
- By Public Transport: Take a bus from Ujie Station (Tohoku Main Line) bound for Bato, alighting at Ushirozawa bus stop, then walk approximately 30 minutes to Santa Hills.
- By Car: From Yaita Interchange on the Tohoku Expressway, it takes around 30–40 minutes to Santa Hills.
Accommodation Options
Santa Hills provides various accommodation options for visitors during the illumination event. Budget-conscious travelers can book basic campsite spots for approximately ¥3,000 JPY per night.
For more comfort, cabins are available starting from ¥9,900 JPY, offering amenities and privacy. Guests seeking a unique festive experience can stay in the special Santa’s House, priced at ¥25,000 JPY or more per night, ideal for families or holiday enthusiasts. Advance booking is highly recommended, especially during the peak Christmas season.
FAQs
What is Santa Hills Illumination?
It is a seasonal Christmas light display held at Santa Hills campsite, featuring thousands of lights, a decorated Christmas tree, and photo spots.
When is Santa Hills Illumination 2025-2026?
The event runs from November 2nd, 2025, to January 3rd, 2026, daily from 4:00 PM to 5:00 PM.
Is there an entry fee for the illumination?
No, viewing the illumination is free for the public. Fees apply only for campsite stays, cabins, or special accommodations.
How can I get to Santa Hills?
Visitors can take a bus from Ujie Station (Tohoku Main Line) and walk 30 minutes, or drive from Yaita Interchange on the Tohoku Expressway.
Are there accommodations at Santa Hills?
Yes, options include basic campsite spots (¥3,000 JPY), cabins (¥9,900 JPY), and the special Santa’s House (¥25,000 JPY+), suitable for families and holiday stays.
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