Best Halloween Japan Events And Ideas For 2024
Japan doesn't really celebrate Halloween like how it's done in the West, specifically compared to America.
But if you are still looking for spooky vibes in Japan, you've come to the right place with these Halloween Japan Events to go to.
Theme parks
Many theme and amusement parks in Japan will have Halloween-related events by decorating their areas in the spirit of Halloween.
Huis Ten Bosch in Nagasaki has both light-hearted and horror Halloween themes.
While we can not list all the theme parks in Japan, the most popular places where people can go and dress up are:
Universal Studios Japan (Osaka)
Tokyo Disney (Tokyo)
Tokyo Joypolis (Tokyo)
Sanrio Puroland Halloween (Tokyo)
Huis Ten Bosch (Nagasaki)
Fuji-Q Highland (Yamanashi)
Shiroi Koibito Park (Hokkaido)
LEGOLAND Japan (Aichi)
Shima Spain Village (Mie)
Please check each location’s dress code during Halloween, as it will vary from place to place.
As far as I can tell, only USJ and Huis Ten Bosch have Halloween horror nights. So, the rest of the theme parks listed above are kid and family-friendly. However, many young adults still go to these places to enjoy the Halloween festivities.
Additionally, many of these theme parks will have Halloween-themed food and desserts along with Japan's seasonal flavor of sweet potatoes during this time of year.
Pumpkin patch alternatives in Japan
Looking for a Halloween photo spot?
Taken from Echigo Hillside National Government Park
While not the same as pumpkin patches, you can still enjoy what Japan offers when decorating for Halloween.
Consider going to large or national parks in Japan as they'll have an area set up filled with fall and Halloween adjacent decorations. Here are the most popular areas:
Yokohama English Garden (Yokohama)
Uminonakamichi Sea Side Park (Fukuoka)
National Musashi Kyuryo Forest Park (Saitama)
Echigo Hillside National Government Park (Niigata)
Inawashiro Herb Garden (Fukushima)
Many of these places will have a more fun and family-friendly area where the atmosphere is warm and inviting for a fall festival. These areas will be filled with bright autumn colors, hanging foliage, and other fun Halloween decorations.
Group meetup
Many online groups and meet-up organizations will create an event for everyone to join and enjoy the festivities.
These events include language exchanges, board games, karaoke, and Halloween parties.
Halloween events in Tokyo
The most popular locations are Facebook Groups and MeetUps. You can browse your area to see if any Halloween events are occurring.
Local events
Many cities, towns, and neighborhoods can host smaller local events, especially for children.
The most common location is at school, especially international schools, where families can get involved in their kids' activities together.
Another location is at major shopping malls like Aeon, Ario, and Ito-Yokado across Japan, where they'll have Halloween-themed activities for children, mainly arts & crafts, face painting, and other activities.
One of the most famous local Halloween events is the Harajuku Omotesando Hello Halloween Pumpkin Parade in Tokyo. It's for kids under 12, who can wear Halloween costumes and parade for 1km. It is a fun, charming, and popular event where families from all over will participate.
Frequently asked questions
Do the Japanese celebrate Halloween?
People in Japan celebrate Halloween, though not in the traditional sense of trick or treating. Instead, it's more centered around Halloween events, festivities at public places, and theme park events.
Is Halloween a good time to visit Japan?
Halloween is a great time to visit Japan, as many theme parks, shopping centers, and local communities host fun and festive Halloween events. Plus, you can enjoy a little warmer fall weather before it gets too cold.
In closing
Japan's Halloween celebrations may not include the traditional trick-or-treating, but it's full of fun events at theme parks, decorated gardens, and local festivities. From spooky horror nights to mostly family-friendly activities, there's something for everyone to enjoy.
If you are looking for a fun-filled Halloween night, consider attending any of these events. Or, you can create your own event for the spooky season.
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