Halloween in the Evening Forest

Make the trek to Musashi-Kyuryo National Government Park – also known as Shrinrin Park – in Saitama this October for a Halloween-themed illumination, held on weekends and public holidays until October 26. Over half a million lights will glow in spooky purples, while Halloween decorations and artworks like Jack-o’-Lanterns and ghosts add to the eerie atmosphere.

Dress up in your favourite costume and enjoy a child-friendly castle-themed illumination show, or munch on Jack-o’-Lantern meat pizza at the central restaurant. The botanical garden is also hosting the ‘Momiji Magic de Show’, a dazzling display of cascading LEDs featuring a talking maple tree.

Although it’s a bit of a trek from central Tokyo, you can reach Shinrinkoen Station in about an hour via the Tobu Tojo Line from Ikebukuro. On event days, a special night shuttle bus runs between the station and the park from 5pm to 8.30pm.

The event will be cancelled in the event of rain. Be sure to check the park's announcement page for the latest updates before heading out.