Events in Kyoto in December 2026
Kyoto event dates for December 2026 are still being announced. Start with the planning leads and the city guide below — the lineup firms up closer to December.
Kyoto's December 2026 lineup is still being announced — planning leads below.
By TripSapien · Updated August 24, 2026
Sourced events
Dates for this month are still being announced. Start with the planning leads below, or build the rest of your visit from the city guide.
Open the Kyoto guideGoing to Kyoto in December?
Add your dates and we'll build the rest of your trip around these events — every place checked for closures and booking needs.
Planning leads
Early leads on events still lining up. Exact dates and details firm up closer to your trip.
- Dec 1 - Dec 31
Kyoto Station Building Winter Illumination
Seasonal light displays and decorations throughout Kyoto Station, creating a festive atmosphere for visitors and locals.
Planning lead · details firm up closer in · Source: festival research
- Dec 11 - Dec 20
Arashiyama Hanatouro
A beautiful winter illumination event in the Arashiyama area featuring thousands of lanterns lighting up the streets, temples, and bamboo groves.
Planning lead · details firm up closer in · Source: festival research
- Dec 21
To-ji Temple Kondo Market (Kobo-san Market)
Monthly market held on the 21st of each month at To-ji Temple, featuring antiques, crafts, food stalls, and local goods.
Planning lead · details firm up closer in · Source: festival research
Holidays, observances & long weekends
Holiday and observance schedules can affect services and venue hours; confirm each place directly.
- New Year's Eve · bankDec 31
- Long weekend with bridge dayDec 31–Jan 3
Holiday data: date-holidays (ISC/CC-BY-3.0).
Ready to plan Kyoto?
Turn these December events into a full Kyoto plan, every place checked for closures, limited hours, and booking needs on your dates.