Sennan Long Park

Beach outings may be a summertime activity in Japan, but Sennan Long Park is proving that this coastal stretch across the water from the Kansai International Airport has plenty of appeal in winter, too. Come sundown, a total of 75,000 lights will illuminate the park, transforming the shoreline into a magical winter nightscape.  Now in its sixth year, the Sennan Park Light-up features glowing corridors and sculptural light installations shaped like hearts, snowflakes and more, turning this entire waterfront into one giant photo spot.

Winter is the height of seafood season in Japan, and the oysters from the Pacific coast are especially delicious this time of year. Get your fill of plump bivalves at Sennan Long Park near Kansai Airport, where the Sennan Oyster Festival is taking place from 11am to 5pm on weekends and holidays between January 17 and March 29.  The free-to-enter extravaganza features Osaka Bay oysters from the Senshu coast, along with Sanriku oysters from higher up the Pacific coastline in Tohoku. The oysters are served in a variety of styles, and visitors will be treated to a complimentary bowl of oyster soup while stocks last. Sake tasting is available for just ¥300 per glass, with ten varieties of local brews to sample. Come for the food and booze, and stay for the live music and daring street performances. You can even make your own oyster shell candle at a workshop.