Kobe Illuminage returns for 2025 with dazzling new illuminations

Last Updated on October 5, 2025

The Japan Illumination Association has announced that Kobe Illuminage, one of Japan’s largest illumination events, will return for its 15th anniversary season starting Friday, October 24, 2025.

Held at the Michi-no-Eki Kobe Fruit & Flower Park Ozo, the event, which attracts over 150,000 visitors annually, will transform the venue into a magical “Garden Dream.”

To mark its 15th year, the event will unveil a host of new and upgraded attractions, including a spectacular “Shining Luxury Liner” display and a unique, personalised drone show.

Tickets for the event, which runs until February 1, 2026, are already on sale.

In celebration of the anniversary, a special 15% discount on advance tickets is available for a limited time on purchases made through the official website until October 23rd.

New for the 15th Anniversary

This year’s “Garden Dream” theme introduces several new, must-see features:

• Shining Luxury Liner

A brand-new illumination centrepiece depicting a classic passenger ship will be displayed alongside the popular “Pink Palace,” creating a scene reminiscent of a grand vessel docked in a foreign port.

• Message Drone Show

In a first for Japan, visitors can book a personal message to be displayed in the night sky by a fleet of 300 drones. 

The participatory event allows guests to commemorate birthdays, proposals, or other special occasions with a custom light animation.

• Kids’ Illuminage

An exhibition showcasing illustrations submitted by children from across the country, which have been transformed into illuminations.

Returning Favourites and Special Events

Popular displays from previous years are also returning with significant upgrades:

• Pink Palace

The event’s iconic symbol, illuminating the front of the on-site hotel, has been renewed with an expanded scale, enhancing its architectural beauty.

• Ice Palace

The immersive world of ice and light is now larger and more impressive than ever before.

• LOVE Tunnel

Last year’s “Ice Tunnel” has evolved into a pink, heart-shaped tunnel of light that changes colour as you walk through.

For its 15th anniversary, Kobe Illuminage will also host special entertainment, including a free Monkey Show held in an indoor theatre, combining the traditional Japanese performing art with modern technology. 

Other events, such as bubble shows and street performances, will be held on select dates.

The park also features a dedicated “Wan Wan Park” where visitors can enjoy the illuminations with their pet dogs.

Event Details

• Event: Kobe Illuminage
• Dates: Friday, October 24, 2025 – Sunday, February 1, 2026
• Hours: 17:00 – 22:00 (Light-up: 17:30 – 21:30)
• Location: Michi-no-Eki Kobe Fruit & Flower Park Ozo, Kobe, Hyogo Prefecture
• Tickets (Standard Price): Adults ¥2,000, Children ¥1,000, Pets ¥500
• 15% Off Advance Ticket Campaign (Until Oct 23rd):
  • Adults: ¥1,700
  • Children: ¥850

Event Summary

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