SHIBUYA BLUE CAVE 2024
Tokyo Winter Illumination: BLUE CAVE SHIBUYA
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Shibuya Blue Cave is a popular illumination event held in Tokyo during winter. The event first started in the Nakameguro area in 2014, then moved its location to Shibuya in 2016. It’s one of the most popular winter illumination events in Tokyo, which attracted over 2 million visitors in one month in previous years.
For a general overview of the Shibuya area, check out our All-in-One Guide to Shibuya!
What is Shibuya Blue Cave?
Shibuya Blue Cave (Ao no Dokutsu /青の洞窟) is one of Tokyo’s most spectacular and photogenic winter illumination events. Taking place annually in the Shibuya District during winter, it features approx 770,000 blue LED lights that illuminate the area around Shibuya Koen Dori Street, and stretch for about 800 m to Yoyogi Park Keyaki Namiki. Visitors can stroll down the blue light path with the mystical atmosphere and enjoy taking photos.
Starting in 2023, the event began to feature a Christmas market along with the illumination, with approximately 20 stalls selling food and Christmas-themed goods. The market is usually open from 15:00 to 21:00 during the season which can be enjoyed before the evening illumination starts.
Shibuya Blue Cave is one of the most photo-worthy winter illuminations in Tokyo. If you are planning to visit Tokyo this winter, don’t miss a chance to visit this magical BLUE winter wonderland!
Basic information
Event Period: December 6, 2024, to December 25, 2024
Lighting Hours: 5:00 PM to 10:00 PM
Venue: Stretching approximately 800 meters from Shibuya Koen-dori (Park Street) to the Zelkova-lined avenue of Yoyogi Park
Admission: Free
Official website: https://shibuya-aonodokutsu.jp/
Tips to Avoid Crowds
To enhance your visit and avoid peak congestion, consider the following tips:
Visit Early on Weekdays (Around 5 PM): Arriving at the illumination’s start time on weekdays can help you enjoy the display before the majority of visitors arrive. This timing often offers a more relaxed experience.
Avoid Peak Hours (7 PM – 9 PM) and Go Near Closing Time: The illumination tends to be busiest between 7 PM and 9 PM. Planning your visit closer to the closing time of 10 PM can result in thinner crowds, allowing for a more comfortable stroll through the illuminated area.
Less Crowded on Rainy Days—Bring Rain Gear: Rainy evenings usually deter some visitors, making the illumination area less crowded. If you don’t mind the weather, visiting on such days can provide a more intimate experience. Ensure you bring appropriate rain gear to stay dry while enjoying the lights.
How to Get to Shibuya Blue Cave
Location: Shibuya Koen Dori Street ~ Yoyogi Park Keyaki Namiki
Access from Shibuya Station
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From Hachiko Exit: Upon exiting via the iconic Hachiko Exit, head towards Park Street (Koen-dori). The entrance to the Blue Cave Illumination is about a 5-minute walk from this point.
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From Miyamasuzaka Exit: This alternative route offers a slightly longer walk. After exiting, proceed towards Park Street to reach the illumination area.
Access from Other Major Stations
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Harajuku Station: From JR Harajuku Station, it’s approximately a 10-minute walk to the Blue Cave.
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Meiji-Jingumae Station: Alight at Meiji-Jingumae Station on the Tokyo Metro. From here, it’s about a 10-minute walk to the illumination site.
Things to do Near Shibuya Blue Cave
There are many things you can do around Shibuya before or after visiting the event! For instance there’s Shibuya Parco with lots of shopping, dining and entertaining options. If you’re looking for dinner options, you could check some of our restaurant guides, and if the night is still young, go ahead and make the most of your time with our Shibuya nightlife guide!
If you are going to visit Shibuya during winter, there are more spectacular winter illumination events nearby! Yebisu Garden Place Winter Illumination will be held in Ebisu, and Meguro River Winter Illumination will be held around Meguro River, which are both situated next to the Shibuya district! Enjoy all the illuminations located right next to each other!
Looking for more exciting events in Tokyo this winter?? You may be interested in these articles, too!
Written by
"The world is my oyster." As a dedicated globetrotter and hammock enthusiast, I’ve spent years chasing new experiences, collecting stories, and discovering the world’s most incredible destinations. Born and raised in Japan, I’ve always had a deep connection to my roots, but my love for adventure has led me to spend over a decade exploring countries across the globe—from culture-rich cities to remote hideaways.
Travel isn't just a hobby for me; it's a lifestyle. I'm constantly searching for new ways to fuel my wanderlust. Over the years, I’ve developed a wealth of knowledge and a treasure trove of tips that make traveling more enjoyable, practical, and meaningful.
Through my experiences, I've come to appreciate not only the beauty of travel but also the importance of understanding diverse cultures, embracing the unfamiliar, and stepping out of my comfort zone. My travels have shaped who I am today, and I’m excited to share those lessons with others.
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