“TOWERS Milight ‘UP'” – A One-Night Citywide Light-Up in Minato Mirai 21, Yokohama
The bustling waterfront district of Minato Mirai 21 in Yokohama is set to shine bright this Christmas Eve as it hosts its 29th annual city-wide illumination event: TOWERS Milight “UP”. The event invites both locals and visitors to experience the district in a uniquely festive glow and reflects a growing emphasis on sustainable practices.
Event Details
- Date & Time: Wednesday, 24 December 2025, from 16:30 to 19:30.
- Location: Throughout the entire Minato Mirai 21 district—including approximately 40 office and commercial buildings—which will be illuminated in unison.
- Cost: Free entry; no tickets required.
- Organiser: Yokohama Minato Mirai 21 Organization
What to Expect
Visitors can look forward to the spectacle of dozens of buildings lighting up simultaneously, transforming the skyline and waterfront area into a luminous festive scene. The synchronization of lights across the district makes this event a popular attraction for photo-enthusiasts and couples seeking an evening out.
Sustainability and Environmental Considerations
This year, the event places a special emphasis on environmental awareness:
- The electricity used for the light-up is procured through non-fossil fuel certificates tied to wind and solar power generation facilities in, for example, Ibaraki Prefecture’s Kamisu City.
- The district is also preparing for a complementary event in March, TOWERS Milight “DOWN”, which will involve turning off exterior lights and signage for ten minutes (20:30–20:40) on Saturday, 28 March 2026 as part of its commitment to reducing CO₂ emissions and promoting energy-saving measures.
Background & History
The TOWERS Milight series dates back to the early 1990s. Its origins trace to when the district’s landmark building, Yokohama Landmark Tower, first lit up all its office floors in 1993, which sparked the idea of a coordinated illumination event. By 1997, surrounding buildings joined in, and the event was formally branded “TOWERS Milight” by around the 10th iteration. Since then it has been held every year without interruption.
Practical Information for Visitors
- Nearest Stations: Sakuragicho Station and Minatomirai Station.
- While there are no tickets, arriving early is advised—especially if you plan to capture photos or enjoy waterfront views.
- Dress warmly: the event takes place in evening winter hours and near the bay, so it may feel cooler than inland.
- As lighting schedules and participation can be subject to change (for reasons such as power supply), visitors are advised to check official updates before attending.
Why This Event Matters
Beyond its aesthetic appeal, the event underscores how urban illumination can combine celebration with environmental consciousness. The pairing of the “UP” (lighting) event with the “DOWN” (light-off) event reflects a broader shift in event-planning toward sustainability. For the Minato Mirai area—already a major business, leisure and tourism zone—the event fosters public engagement, community vibrancy, and international appeal.
READ MORE: Minato Mirai 21
