In Japan, Halloween is celebrated with a delightful mix of tradition and modern passion.
From elaborate costume parades to seasonal snacks, the spooky fun is popular on the streets and in the hearts of the people.
Whether you’re a resident or a traveler, exploring Japan’s take on Halloween is a great way to experience the culture, while having a blast. Here’s what awaits you in Japan for a magical Halloween!
By the way, bringing an iRoamly Japan travel eSIM will help you stay connected throughout the festivities, so you can share your costume adventures in real-time!
Do Japanese celebrate Halloween?
Yes, the Japanese do celebrate Halloween, but as a fun festival revolving around costumes and entertainment – rather than an evening of trick-or-treating. The holiday became popular in Japan from the early 2000s, thanks to American pop culture. Events typically include costume parades and festivities in public spaces such as Tokyo’s Shibuya, where thousands of revelers turn out in brilliant fancy dress. Be mindful of large crowds during these celebrations.
The day is more about expression and entertainment, though, and is a big night for city dwellers, notably the younger crowd and local retailers. Just like Christmas in Japan, Halloween has its own unique characteristics, blending local traditions with modern influences to create a festive experience that’s distinctively Japanese.
Where to get involved with Halloween in Japan
1. Shibuya Halloween Party
Arguably Japan's most famous Halloween event and sight, Shibuya's Halloween parties are huge street events where people turn up in wild costumes.
Location & Time: Shibuya Crossing, Tokyo. Subject to confirmation, but typically the weekend closest to Halloween.
Tip: The streets are heaving so no reservations are needed, but expect a raucous night!
2. Universal Studios Japan Halloween Night
Horror mazes, themed shows, and Halloween attractions are rolled out across the park, suitable for families and thrill-seekers.
Location & Time: Universal Studios Japan, Osaka. Runs throughout October.
Tip: The park can reach capacity during event nights so buying tickets in advance is advised.
3. Kawasaki Halloween Parade
One of the biggest Halloween parades in Japan, with thousands of participants showing off their costume creations.
Location & Time: Around Kawasaki Station. Typically the last Sunday of October.
Tip: Registration is required for participants to march in the parade, but it's free to watch.
4. Ikebukuro Halloween Cosplay Fest
Essentially a large gathering for anime fans to dress up as their favorite characters and hang out.
Location & Time: East Exit of Ikebukuro Station, Tokyo. Late October.
Tip: Sign-up is required on their website but participation is free.
5. Toshimaen Halloween Festival
A more family-friendly event with haunted houses, costume contests, and trick-or-treating zones for kids.
Location & Time: Toshimaen Amusement Park, Tokyo. Weekends throughout October.
Tip: Some events may require an additional fee; check the schedule in advance
After all of that, you'll probably be feeling peckish, so next we'll move onto some of the delicious or quirky treats served up for Halloween.
What Costumes to Wear on Halloween in Japan
In Japan, Halloween dress-up is heavily influenced by pop culture, with costumes often denoting popular anime and manga characters, such as "One Piece," "Naruto," and "Sailor Moon," though witches and vampires are always in style too.
Here are some Tokyo stores for those looking to accessorize their spooky outfits:
Don Quijote (Donki): Located in Akihabara, this discount store has a huge range of costumes and props, from the silly to the terrifying.
Village Vanguard: The Shibuya novelty shop carries accessories for costumes, as well as all manner of bizarre trinkets that will fit the Halloween mood.
Tokyu Hands: Offering both materials and ready-made costumes, this DIY shop has locations in Shibuya and Shinjuku.
Unique Halloween Experiences in Japan
Halloween Street Events
At the livelier spots, the streets become makeshift stages, with costumed revelers breaking into dance-offs, flash mobs, and even impromptu performances for the gathered crowds. They can be almost electric with atmosphere, with revelers and bystanders alike swept up into the Halloween spirit.
Location: Various busy areas
Time: Primarily evenings, throughout October
Tip: Just turn up and watch, it's free – though you may be tempted by food or trinkets from the stalls.
Halloween Trains
Passengers step aboard the train to find themselves in the midst of a rolling Halloween party, complete with costumed travelers and decorated carriages. A fun and quirky way to get around while soaking up some seasonal spirit!
Location: Yamanote Line, Tokyo; Osaka Loop Line, Osaka
Time: Halloween night
Tip: Travel is via regular train tickets, no additional fares, just lots of excited passengers.
Halloween Gifts and Prizes
Numerous Halloween events and parties will offer themed gifts – think masks, glowing wands, or even one-off collectibles – to attendees.
Locations: Event-specific, but most major parties/parades will include them
Tip: Compete in contests or performances for a better chance of picking up special goods.
What to Eat on Halloween in Japan
Pumpkin Kuri Kinton: A sweet dish of mashed chestnuts and pumpkin, often served in cute pumpkin shapes.
Halloween Doughnuts: Numerous bakeries and chains, including Krispy Kreme, sell Halloween-themed doughnuts, complete with spooky faces and autumnal flavors like pumpkin spice.
Ghostly Gyoza: Some restaurants serve gyoza dumplings with faces drawn on in edible ink, filled with seasonal ingredients such as kabocha squash.
Candy Sushi: Fruit and candy versions of sushi rolls, popular at Halloween parties.
Blood Orange Cocktails: For an adult-friendly drink alternative, try this citrus cocktail with a splash of grenadine for a macabre twist. Keep in mind the drinking age in Japan if you plan to indulge, as it’s strictly enforced.
Summary:
From the insanity of Shibuya to the scars of Universal Studios, Halloween in Japan is unlike anything you may have experienced before, be it dressing up, joining parades or just eating some seasonal snacks.
In short, Halloween in Japan simply screams fun! Don a costume, munch seasonal snacks, join a parade, trick or treat, party or whatever you want. It’ll be a night you never forget!