The winter skyline of Kitakyushu is set to be redefined. Celebrating the 125th anniversary of the old Kokura City municipality, “Kokura Illumination 2025” transforms the urban center into a radiant “Galaxy Cluster.”
Running from November 21, 2025, to February 15, 2026, this city-wide spectacle connects the bustling JR Kokura Station with the serene Murasaki River. It is a massive collaborative effort by local businesses and the city, creating a cohesive “City of Light” that invites travelers to wander, photograph, and discover the romantic side of this industrial metropolis.
🌌 Unveiling the Essence: The 125th Anniversary Spectacle
This year is special. The illumination is scaled up to commemorate the 125th Anniversary of Old Kokura City, adding extra layers of brilliance to the display.
The Urban Galaxy
The concept connects the city’s key landmarks—from the station to the castle—with a continuous stream of light.
- Duration: The event runs for nearly 3 months, bridging the festive energy of Christmas, the solemnity of New Year’s, and the romance of Valentine’s Day.
- Scale: It is the largest illumination event in Kitakyushu, involving major department stores, shopping arcades, and the riverside park.
📸 Your Insider Odyssey: The “Big Three” Photo Spots
To capture the essence of Kokura’s winter, you must visit these three specific locations.
1. The “KOKURA” Monument
Located on the banks of the Murasaki River, this is the definitive photo spot.
- The Shot: The colorful “KOKURA” text sculpture is illuminated, with the majestic Kokura Castle and the architectural curves of Riverwalk Kitakyushu glowing in the background. It is a single frame that captures the city’s identity.
2. The Tunnel of Light (Ogai Bridge)
The Ogai Bridge (Ougai-bashi), which spans the Murasaki River, transforms into a tunnel of light. Walking through this immersive corridor feels like stepping into a galaxy, making it the most popular spot for couples.
3. The “Light Net” Riverbank
Look down from the bridge to see the riverbanks carpeted in a “Net of Light.” This ground-level illumination creates a vast field of light that mirrors the flow of the river, adding depth and scale to the scenery.
🍷 The Festive Pairing: Christmas Market & Castle
For the first month of the illumination, the riverside hosts a major concurrent event.
- Event: KOKURA CHRISTMAS MARKET & CASTLE
- Dates: Nov 21 – Dec 25, 2025
- The Experience: While the general illumination continues until February, the Christmas Market (featuring a giant tree, German Hütte huts, and hot wine) is the centerpiece until Christmas Day. Enjoying the lights with a mug of Glühwein by the river is the ultimate way to experience the season.
💎 The Elite Navigator’s Codex: Strategic Access
- The “Loop” Route: Start at JR Kokura Station (South Exit) to see the station illuminations. Walk down the main arcade towards the Murasaki River (10 mins). Cross the Ogai Bridge (Tunnel of Light), take a photo at the KOKURA Monument, and visit the Christmas Market. End your walk at Riverwalk Kitakyushu.
- Station Choice: While JR Kokura is the main hub, JR Nishi-Kokura Station is actually closer (3 min walk) to the Riverwalk and Castle area if you want to start directly at the main photo spots.
📊 Kyushu Codex: Instant Insights
| Aspect | Details | Expert Reference Tip |
| Event Name | Kokura Illumination 2025 | 125th Anniversary Edition |
| Dates | Nov 21, 2025 – Feb 15, 2026 | Runs 17:00 – 23:00 |
| Venue | Kokura City Center | Station to Murasaki River |
| Admission | Free | Public Street/Park |
| Top Spot | Ogai Bridge | “Tunnel of Light” |
| Market | Ends Dec 25 | Don’t miss the hot wine! |
❓ Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Is there parking available?
A: There is no dedicated event parking. Visitors should use paid coin parking lots around JR Kokura Station or Riverwalk Kitakyushu. Public transport is highly recommended due to the venue’s proximity to the station.
Q: Does the illumination turn off in the rain?
A: No, the lights remain on in rain, often creating beautiful reflections on the wet pavement. However, in cases of typhoons or severe storms, the display may be suspended for safety.
Q: How long does it take to walk the main course?
A: A leisurely stroll from Kokura Station to the river, including photo stops and a quick visit to the market, takes about 30 to 45 minutes.
🌟 Synthesis
Kokura Illumination 2025 is a celebration of urban resilience and beauty. By connecting the station, the river, and the castle with a ribbon of light, it transforms the city into a walkable gallery of winter wonder.