A Winter Wonderland of Lights: Nabana no Sato Illumination in Japan

Last update: December 18, 2023

*The article was released on December 18, 2023. The latest information may vary.

Mie Prefecture is home to one of the most popular tourist destinations in Japan: Nagashima Resort. Nagashima Resort is home to Nagashima Spa Land, famous for its screaming machines, and Mitsui Outlet Park Jazz Dream Nagashima, as well as Nabana no sato, where you can enjoy numerous plants. Here at Nabana-no-sato, visitors can also enjoy one of the largest illuminations in Japan every winter.

The Nabana no Sato Illumination is a truly magical experience that that captivates all visitors. If you are looking for a winter wonderland of lights, be sure to visit Nabana no Sato during the holiday season.

The Nabana no Sato illumination in the 2023-2024 season

The Nabana no Sato illumination in 2023-2024 features seven themed areas. Here are three of the most popular areas.

1. The Golden Pyramid

The Golden Pyramid

The main attraction of the Nabana no Sato illumination this season is the "Golden Pyramid," which is modeled after the three pyramids of the Giza Plateau, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The illumination is composed of three scenes: the Golden Pyramid, the prosperity of the Nile, and Egyptian mythology. The sight of the three towering pyramids, with the long history and civilization of Egypt reflected on them, is truly breathtaking.

2. Water illumination "The River of Light"

Water illumination The River of Light

The water illumination "The River of Light," is inspired by the vast natural world. The 10-minute program uses colorful lights to depict nature and the changing seasons.
The River of Light is held on a pond in the center of Nabana no Sato, so you can enjoy it from a wide area around the pond. One of the most popular photo spots is the bridge on the opposite side of the chapel.

3. Tunnel of Light

Tunnel of Light

The Tunnel of Light is one of the most popular areas of Nabana no Sato illumination, with many photos posted on social media every year.
The tunnel is about 200 meters long and is lined with LED lights that change color in a variety of patterns. The lights create a beautiful and mesmerizing effect that is sure to take your breath away.

4. Be sure to enjoy the romantic Begonia Garden too!

Begonia Garden

Looking for more than just illumination at Nabana no Sato? The Begonia Garden is also a must-see for anyone who wants to experience the beauty of flowers.
The large greenhouse is filled with a riot of color, like a painting come to life. Here, you can see hundreds of species of flowers from all over the world, including the gorgeous begonias that bloom all year round.

5. The shopping season is here! Don’t forget to check out the outlet

Mitsui Outlet Park Jazz Dream Nagashima

Nagashima Resort is a one-stop destination for a fun-filled day. With attractions for all ages, including Nabana no Sato's beautiful illumination and flowers, Nagashima Spa Land's thrilling rides, and Mitsui Outlet Park Jazz Dream Nagashima's great deals, there's something for everyone.

How to get to Nabana no Sato

From Nagoya to Nabana no Sato

By train
  • Take the Kintetsu Nagoya Line express train from Nagoya Station to Nagashima Station (about 25 minutes).
  • From Nagashima Station, take the direct bus to Nabana no Sato (about 10 minutes).
By bus
  • From Nagoya Station, walk to Meitetsu Bus Center (within 5 minutes).
  • Take the direct bus from Meitetsu Bus Center to Nabana no Sato (about 30 minutes).

Note: The travel time may vary during peak season due to traffic congestion.

From Osaka to Nabana no Sato

By train
  • Take the Kintetsu Namba Line limited express train from Osaka Namba Station to Kintetsu Kuwana Station (about 2 hours).
  • Take the train from Kintetsu Kuwana Station to Kintetsu Nagashima Station (about 5 minutes).
  • Take the direct bus from Kintetsu Nagashima Station to Nabana no Sato (about 10 minutes).
By bus
  • Take the WILLER EXPRESS bus from Osaka Umeda WILLER Bus Terminal to Nagashima Resort (about 3 hours).
  • Take the bus from Nagashima Onsen (near Nagashima Spa Land and Outlet) to Nabana no Sato (about 20 minutes).

Note: The travel time may vary during peak season due to traffic congestion.

Bus tours are the best way to experience the Nabana no Sato illumination

WILLER's Osaka-based bus tours offer a variety of plans to suit your needs, including the Nabana no Sato illumination plan, Nagashima Spaland pass-included plans, and hotel-included plans. All Nabana no Sato illumination tour plans include a special coupon for Mitsui Outlet Jazz Dream Nagashima. Highway buses also offer the convenience of direct transportation to Nagashima Resort.

Make a plan to visit Nabana no Sato this winter!

We hope you have enjoyed learning about the attraction of Nabana no Sato illumination. Nagashima Resort is a great place to experience the beauty of winter, and it is easily accessible from Osaka via a direct bus operated by WILLER EXPRESS.

Check out Nabana no Sato illumination bus tours