Fukuoka Christmas at Hakata Station
Lighting Ceremony Schedule
November 3: Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony
Hi there! Planning a Fukuoka Christmas getaway?
I’m Traveling Gomyammi, a travel blogger exploring the world.
If you’re heading to Fukuoka, Japan, in November or December,
here’s some festive news worth adding to your plans:
the schedule for Christmas 2026 at Hakata Station in Fukuoka
and its illumination lighting ceremony has been announced!
This year, Hakata Station will sparkle with an incredible 800,000 lights,transforming the station plaza for the holiday season.
There’s also a brand-new light installation celebrating the event’s 15th anniversaryto look forward to!
Another highlight of this year’s lighting ceremony is Japanese singer-songwriter
AKASAKI, who is scheduled for a special live performance and talk.That’s an extra reason to catch opening night.
From festive sights around Hakata Station to add to your winter Fukuoka itinerary,
here’s what to know about the lighting times, live performance, and Christmas market dates.
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Fukuoka Christmas 2026: Hakata Station Lighting Ceremony Schedule |
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Event: Hikari no Machi Hakata (Hakata, City of Light)
Lighting ceremony date: Tuesday, November 3, 2026—a public holiday in Japan
Ceremony starts: 6:15 p.m.
Lights scheduled to switch on: 6:30 p.m.
Location: Plaza in front of JR Hakata Station, Fukuoka, Japan
Special guest: AKASAKI
Illumination dates: November 3, 2026–January 11, 2026 [The source lists these dates, but the FAQ below gives the end date as January 11, 2027.]
Regular lighting hours: 5–11 p.m.
Admission: Free
Everything takes place right outside Hakata Station,
so there’s a good chance you’ll pass the lights at least once while exploring Fukuoka.
I’m visiting in early November myself, so I’ll probably get to see them.
I’ll try to bring back some photos!
The lights normally come on at 5 p.m.,
but on opening night, November 3, the schedule follows the ceremony:
the lights are expected to switch on at 6:30 p.m.Keep that later start in mind if you’re going on the first day.
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800,000 Lights and the New Hakatarium |
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The giant Christmas tree is making way for something new:
a new centerpiece at Hakata Station for 2026.
This installation alone will feature an impressive 160,000 lights,
glowing in blue and warm champagne gold.
Meet Hakatarium, created to mark the 15th anniversary
of Hakata’s Christmas illuminations.It’s set to become the event’s new signature attraction!
You can also explore the Gate of Light, the Curtain of Light,
and an LED-lit passage measuring 5 meters wide and 70 meters long,
along with Stardust Wave and the Hakata Station Christmas Market.
There’s plenty to take in during an evening here.
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Hakata Station Christmas Market: Different Opening Dates |
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The Hakata Station Christmas lighting ceremony takes place on November 3,
while the Christmas market opens on November 7.
The market wraps up on December 25.
Weekday hours are 4–11 p.m.,
and weekend and public holiday hours are noon–11 p.m.Those are the hours to plan around
if you want to visit the market as well as the lights!
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Fukuoka Christmas FAQ: Visiting Hakata Station |
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Q. Is the Hakata Christmas lighting ceremony free?
Yes! You can see the illuminations in the JR Hakata Station plaza for free.
However, access to the ceremony’s viewing area
may be restricted depending on crowd levels.
Q. When is AKASAKI performing?
AKASAKI is scheduled to appear at the lighting ceremony on November 3, 2026,
which begins at 6:15 p.m.
Check the on-site announcements for the detailed performance schedule.
Q. Can I still see the lights after Christmas?
Yes! The illuminations are scheduled to continue through January 11, 2027,
so you can catch them during a year-end or New Year trip to Fukuoka.
Just remember that the Christmas market is scheduled to close on December 25.
Q. How far is the event from Hakata Station?
Take the Hakata Exit, and you’ll find the event plaza right in front of the station.
Being able to stop by without a long detour is a big part of the appeal.
Near Fukuoka, Japan:
The Prettiest Place to Visit at Christmas
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Answer to Yeonnam-dong, Seoul’s Trendy Strolling Neighborhood
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