Official Hiroshima Dreamination 2026 Dates

For the most up-to-date details, check Hiroshima Airport before you go.

For official information, visit Hiroshima Tourism Promoting.

The daily schedule is very consistent for visitors. Lights turn on at 5:30 PM each evening. They remain bright until 10:30 PM at night. This gives you plenty of time to walk through the city after dinner. Most people spend about two hours exploring the full route.

Admission to this event is completely free for everyone. You do not need a ticket to walk along Peace Boulevard. This makes it a great activity for families and budget travelers. You can learn more at the official Dive! Hiroshima tourism website. The city expects large crowds during the opening weekend.

Weeknights are usually less crowded than Friday or Saturday nights. If you prefer a quiet walk, visit between Monday and Thursday. The atmosphere is very romantic for couples during the week. You will have more space to take photos without people in the way. Plan your visit early to avoid the late December rush.

Best Walking Route for the Light Displays

The main event takes place along Peace Boulevard in central Hiroshima. This long street becomes a corridor of shimmering lights and colors. Most visitors start their journey near the Peace Memorial Museum. You can follow the best walking route for Hiroshima Dreamination to see everything. The path is flat and easy for all ages.

As you walk, you will see different zones of light. Each section has a unique color scheme and design. There are large sculptures of ships, castles, and animals. The route covers about two kilometers of the city center. You will find many benches where you can sit and rest.

• Start at the intersection near the Peace Memorial Park.
• Walk east along Peace Boulevard toward the Shirakamisha Shrine.
• Look for the large "Gate of Light" near the middle of the route.
• Finish your walk near the Oriental Hotel Hiroshima.

The route is very easy to follow because of the bright lights. You will see many other people walking the same path. Local police often help guide traffic at the major crosswalks. This ensures that pedestrians stay safe while enjoying the show. The entire walk feels very safe and welcoming.

Theme and Special Installations for 2026

The theme for the 2026 festival is "Fairyland of Light." This concept brings magical creatures and stories to life. You will see glowing unicorns and giant flowers along the boulevard. The designs use millions of tiny LED bulbs to create detail. It is a truly impressive display of modern light art.

One highlight is the massive "Light Castle" located in the central zone. This installation is several stories high and very bright. Children love walking through the glowing tunnels that lead to the castle. It is a perfect spot for family photos and videos. The colors change slowly to create a dreamlike effect.

Interactive displays are also a big part of the 2026 event. Some lights change color when you step on special floor pads. This makes the experience fun for kids and adults alike. You can find these interactive spots near the main sculptures. They are clearly marked with signs in English and Japanese.

The festival also features a large "Tree of Hope" near the end of the route. This tree is covered in thousands of white and blue lights. It symbolizes peace and a bright future for the city. Many people stop here to make a wish for the new year. It is one of the most popular spots for locals.

Practical Tips for Your Winter Visit

Winter in Hiroshima can be quite chilly after the sun sets. Temperatures often drop to 5°C (41°F) during the evening hours. You should check the Hiroshima winter weather and clothing guide before packing. Wearing layers is the best way to stay warm while walking. Don't forget to bring a scarf and gloves.

Using public transport is the easiest way to reach the event. The Hiroshima Electric Railway has several stops near Peace Boulevard. Trams run frequently until late at night. Avoid driving your own car because parking is very expensive. The city center gets very busy during the illumination hours.

If you get cold, there are many cafes along the route. You can stop for a hot drink or a snack. Many local shops stay open late to serve the festival crowds. It is a good idea to carry some cash for small purchases. Most large restaurants will accept credit cards for dinner.

For more advice, read our Hiroshima winter travel tips 2026. This guide covers everything from transport to local customs. Knowing a few Japanese phrases can also be very helpful. Most locals are very friendly to tourists during the festival. Enjoy the festive atmosphere of the city.

Best Photography Spots Along the Route

Capturing the beauty of the lights requires a little bit of planning. The "Gate of Light" offers a great frame for your photos. It creates a sense of depth in your images. Use our photography tips for Hiroshima Dreamination to get the best results. A tripod can help you take sharp photos in low light.

The reflection of lights on the nearby river is also beautiful. Look for spots where the water is calm and still. This creates a mirror effect that looks great in pictures. The area near the Peace Memorial Park has several good vantage points. Try to arrive just before sunset for the best sky colors.

Portrait photography is very popular near the glowing sculptures. The soft light from the LEDs is very flattering for faces. Make sure to turn off your camera flash for better results. The flash often makes the background lights look dark and dull. Natural light from the displays is much better.

Don't forget to take some wide shots of the entire boulevard. This shows the scale of the festival and the city. The view from the pedestrian bridges is usually the best for this. You can see the long line of lights stretching into the distance. It is a sight you will never forget.

Where to Stay Near Peace Boulevard

Staying near Peace Boulevard makes visiting the festival very easy. You can walk to the lights in just a few minutes. This is helpful if you want to visit the displays multiple times. Check out the best hotels near Hiroshima Dreamination for recommendations. Many hotels offer rooms with views of the lights.

The Oriental Hotel Hiroshima is a popular choice for festival visitors. It is located right on the edge of the illumination route. You can see the glowing trees from many of the guest rooms. The hotel also has great restaurants for a post-walk dinner. Book your room early for the 2026 season.

Another great option is the ANA Crowne Plaza Hiroshima. It is situated very close to the Peace Memorial Park area. This puts you at the start of the walking route. The hotel is known for its excellent service and comfortable rooms. It is a perfect base for exploring the city in winter.

If you are on a budget, look for business hotels nearby. There are many affordable options within a ten-minute walk. These hotels are clean and offer all the basic amenities you need. Staying in the city center saves you money on late-night taxi fares. It also lets you enjoy the local nightlife.