Guide to Sagamiko Illumillion

 Glorious light displays are a centerpiece for Japanese winter celebrations. Throughout the season, the country is peppered with illuminations, from the small and subtle to the extravagant. Sagamiko Illumillion, held at Lake Sagami MORI MORI in western Kanagawa Prefecture, is one of Kanto’s most dazzling and innovative displays. 

Besides picturesque Lake Sagami, this spectacularly lit forest is just two hours from central Tokyo. The display runs from November 16th to May 11th and features around six million lights throughout the park and rides, making it a popular attraction for people of all ages. 

The forest featured some themed areas, including Paddington Town, a theme park in honor of Paddington Bear, the character created by British author Michael Bond. The town is a festive hub within the park, with music, lights, and attractions creating a vibrant atmosphere. 

A more ethereal attraction is the Forest of Light, where the serenity of the surrounding nature, the twinkling of lanterns in the trees, and a carpet of lights create an otherworldly experience. 

This year marks the 16th annual Sagamiko Illumillion. Every year, there is a different theme featuring cute characters. This year, the San-X characters such as Sumikko Gurashi, Rilakkuma, and Tarepanda take center stage. The characters will attend the light ceremony when the event opens on Saturday, November 16th. A special Sumikko Gurashi drone light show will also be held, where around 500 drones will depict the cute characters in the night sky. The drone shows are scheduled on:

- Saturday, November 30th

- Sunday, December 1st

- Saturday, December 7th

- Sunday, December 8th

Another key event at the Sagamiko Illumillion is when illuminated soap bubbles, accompanied by music, fill the forest. This magical event is held on:

- Sunday, November 24th

- Saturday, December 14th

- Saturday, January 11th

- Sunday, January 12th

Walking through the illumination is just one of the ways you can appreciate the glittering landscapes of Sagamiko Illumillion. Opt for a pass that includes ride access (or pay per ride), and you can view the park from another perspective. 

The Rainbow Lift is a chairlift that sweeps you over a rainbow-striped carpet of colored lights, the illuminated Ferris Wheel is the highest point from which to view every corner of the park, and Paradise Pilot is a rotating ride that allows adrenaline junkies to see the park from every angle. There are also bumper cars and a carousel!

Park entry costs around 2,000 JPY for adults and 1,600 JPY for children and seniors. The price for park entry and unlimited, all-day access to rides is around 4,500 to for adults and 3,700 JPY for children. 
*Price depends on the date

The nearest transportation option is Sagamiko Station, which can be reached via the Chuo Line from Shinjuku. From there, you can take the local 21 bus to Lake Sagami MORIMORI-mae bus stop.

Mieux Forest

Mieux Forest is a glamping site along the Chuo Line, making it a convenient base from which to visit Sagamiko Illumillion. These comfortable, air-conditioned tents are ideal for enjoying Japan’s great outdoors, but also offers non-tent options as well. The campsite also offers many activities, including playing in the river, creative activities, and barbecuing.

Hotel Route-Inn Court Uenohara

Hotel Route-Inn Court Uenohara is a clean and comfortable hotel conveniently located along the Chuo Line, a short distance from Sagamiko Illumillion and Lake Sagamiko. The hotel also has public baths, a great way to relax and unwind after a chilly evening seeing the illuminations. 

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