Hikari no Machi Hakata is an annual holiday event hosted by JR Hakata City, the commercial complex directly connected to JR Hakata Station. A dazzling 640,000 lights illuminate the station plaza, turning the heart of the city into a magical winter scene.
Highlights include the 14.9-meter symbol tree, the “Stardust Wave” where starlike lights cascade from the grand roof of JR Hakata City, and the “Gate of Light,” introduced in 2023. These distinctive illuminations and art objects are scattered throughout the venue, creating a dreamlike atmosphere. In the 2025 season, the symbol tree and the roughly 70-meter-long LED screen “LED SKY WALK” are themed after the popular game Super Mario. Ornaments and screen visuals transform into familiar characters and items, heightening the festive mood.
From November 1 to December 25, a Christmas Market is held on-site. Visitors can browse traditional Christmas goods, enjoy hearty dishes and hot wine to warm up on chilly evenings, and catch daily events such as live music performances-making it a must-visit winter celebration in Hakata.
Highlights
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An annual holiday event hosted by JR Hakata City.
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640,000 lights illuminate the plaza in front of JR Hakata Station.
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Highlights include a 14.9-meter symbol tree and the Gate of Light, among many other displays.
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In the 2025 season, select areas feature a Super Mario theme.
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A Christmas Market is also held from November 1 to December 25.
