Ikebukuro in Tokyo is one of the three busiest districts in the city. This hot zone is center to great shopping, manga-related events and expos, and hundreds of restaurants and is only a 30-minute drive or train ride from Hardy Barracks.
During the holiday season, the district undergoes a winter wonderland transformation with plenty of illuminations and performances.
Stop by the Ikebukuro Nishiguchi Park and the Tokyo Art Theater for aqua blue and white LEDs highlighting the “Extreme Illumination” through Jan. 31.
Then, head to Rikkyo University for 20-meter-tall Himalayan cedar trees illuminated as gigantic Christmas trees. Throughout the season, make sure to catch holiday carols or handbell performances by the university students.
And for another treat, plan to go to Sunshine City, one of the premiere shopping and entertainment destinations in Ikebukuro, for performances at Fountain Square on the second floor.
It’s the most wonderful time of the year and Ikebukuro has many options to make sure you enjoy the season.
Celebrate the season in Ikebukuro