Time flies, and somehow we’ve reached the end of 2025 in the blink of an eye. As we prepare to wrap up the year, it’s time to start planning our 2026 New Year’s Eve celebrations. If you’re looking for an outdoor soirée with all the bells and whistles, check out the Countdown Festival 2025–2026 at Kobe Illuminage, located less than 90 minutes away from central Osaka.
For the uninitiated, Kobe Illuminage is one of Japan’s largest annual light festivals, running this year from October 24 to February 1. To mark its 15th anniversary, the illumination’s 'Garden Dream' theme has transformed the sprawling venue into a sparkling wonderland featuring a luxury cruise ship, a heart-shaped love tunnel, an ice palace and more, all sculpted entirely from lights.
For one night only on Wednesday December 31, Kobe Illuminage will host a massive countdown party across its vast illuminated grounds. Surrounded by brilliant displays in every direction, it’s a fantastical way to ring in the New Year.
The evening’s programme includes food trucks, live concerts, stage performances and a magical bubble show. As midnight approaches, DJs will be all hands on deck, spinning a rousing mix of EDM, hip-hop, disco, K-pop, J-pop and more. The music will be synchronised with lighting effects to create a fully immersive atmosphere that builds the excitement as the night progresses.
Just before the clock strikes twelve, you’ll be treated to an awe-inspiring drone show. Judging by last year’s event, this won’t be an ordinary display. The drones will form scenes in a storytelling format, so keep an eye out for grand moments like a pegasus galloping across the night sky to usher in the new year with energy and wonder.
The Countdown Festival 2025–2026 at Kobe Illuminage runs from 9pm to 2am on December 31. Special tickets for this event are now available online at ¥8,000 for ages 13 and up, and ¥4,000 for children aged 1 to 12. If you’d like to enjoy the indoor live concerts as well, tickets are ¥15,000 and ¥10,000 respectively.
For more details, check the event website.
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