Is Halloween Celebrated in Japan?
Yes, Japan loves Halloween! Japan is known for horror such as the original Ju-On: The Grudge film, Junji Ito’s manga such as Uzumaki and more.
People love dressing up in Japan. In fact, the nightlife comes alive with many people not only dressing up as their favorite characters from TV shows or anime but also embodying classic ghosts and vampires.
History of Halloween in Japan
From my research Halloween in Japan started in the late 90’s to early 2000’s. Around this time Japan was adopting a lot from the West.
The first recorded celebration of Halloween is the Kawasaki Halloween Parade and Disneyland’s ‘Disney Happy Halloween’ celebration, both in 1997.
The popularity has gone through the roof ever since, and now it’s a big part of October in Japan. There usually isn’t any Trick-or-Treating like Western tradition, but I’m sure in their own prefectures and neighborhoods they do that for the little kids.
Halloween in Japan: Events and Activities
1. Shibuya Halloween
Firstly, the most famous place to celebrate Halloween in Japan. Shibuya became an unofficial party area for Halloween. So millions would show up to drink, party, take photos with their favorite characters and more. This was the norm before the pandemic happened.
Now there are laws preventing people from selling alcohol and drinking in Shibuya on certain days such as Halloween and New Years Eve. Additionally, the Shibuya mayor discourages people from coming to his city on Halloween as they don’t want any rowdy incidents happening and litter throughout the city.
2. Ikebukuro Halloween Cosplay Fest 2024
Many cosplayers join this event every Halloween. Ikebukuro is a major place for anime culture, so naturally it will be a good place for Halloween in Japan. It’s free to see your favorite anime and gacha game characters, but if you want to enter the festival there will be a fee.
3. Tokyo Disneyland, Disney Resort & DisneySea
Firstly at Disneyland the park will be decorated in the theme of Halloween. You will be able to see Disney ‘villains’ throughout the park. While at the end of the day you can check out the Night High Halloween show.
Secondly at Disney Resort they will be hosting special events called “Disney Halloween” and “Into the Frenzy”
Finally in DisneySea they will be welcoming guests with Disney Characters dressed in candy and pumpkin inspired outfits.
4. Universal Studios Japan
There will be around 12 Halloween attractions at Universal Studios Japan. From zombies casually walking around the park to themed events like the Chainsaw Man 4-D ride. There will be a lot to do at USJ. You can check out the full list here.
5. Kyoto Ghost Tour
A personalized tour showing you many haunted places throughout Kyoto. The tour guide will give you scary stories throughout the places and give you backstories.
You will be taken to places such as the infamous Kiyotaki Tunnel. A hotspot for paranormal investigators, many of which have captured evidence of the supernatural. The tunnel was supposedly built around an execution site and battlefield. You can check the full tour here.
6. Kawasaki Halloween Parade
One of the largest Halloween Parades in Japan. There is much more to do than just join in on the parade. After that there will be live performances, food stalls and more. Here is a full list of activities.
7. Immersive Fort Halloween
Opened recently in Odaiba in March 2024. It is the world’s first immersive theme park. This will be their first Halloween celebration. On the day there will be a costume party where anyone can join.
But later after 5pm is where the horror events happen. You can experience immersive horror events, from death games like the Saw franchise or you can meet Jack the Ripper himself.
8. Rokko Island Halloween Festival 2024
Rokko Island is a man made island near Kobe Harbor. The entire island will be used for the festival. There will be a costume parade, contest, food stalls, many booths and more.
There are Many Things to do for Halloween in Japan
Halloween in Japan has transformed into a huge celebration. Mixing things adopted from the West and adding it into Japanese culture. Whether you’re a fan of cosplay, haunted tours, or lively parades, Halloween in Japan offers unique experiences that capture the spirit of a Western Halloween. So, if you find yourself in Japan during October, immerse yourself in the Halloween spirit! This list is just a small portion of Halloween activities.
