Where to Start the Midosuji Light Walk

The best place to begin is the Hanshin-mae intersection located in Umeda. This northern point marks the official start of the massive four-kilometer display. You can easily reach this spot by taking the train to JR Osaka Station. Starting here allows you to walk south toward the vibrant Namba district.

Most travelers prefer starting at the Umeda end of the route for convenience. The lights in this section often feature cool blue and elegant white tones. You will find many large department stores nearby for some pre-walk shopping. Grab a warm seasonal drink before you begin your long evening journey.

The Umeda area provides a grand and festive entrance to the light festival. You can see the start of the lights from the elevated skywalks nearby. It is the perfect place to meet your friends before starting the walk. Many visitors take their first photos near the Hanshin Department Store entrance.

Check the weather forecast before you head out to the Umeda starting point. The wind can be quite strong between the tall buildings in this district. Ensure your camera batteries are fully charged for the many photos ahead. This northern section sets a beautiful tone for the rest of your night.

Walking Route for Midosuji Winter Lights 2026

Follow the wide sidewalks south from Umeda toward the historic Yodoyabashi area. This section features grand buildings illuminated in soft gold and bronze colors. The walk takes about 45 to 60 minutes if you maintain a steady pace. You will cross several scenic bridges over the beautiful Tosabori River.

Continue your walk toward the Honmachi district to see more vibrant light colors. Each zone along Midosuji uses a different color theme for the decorated trees. You might see bright pink, deep purple, or warm yellow LEDs in 2026. Check the Osaka Convention & Tourism Bureau for specific zone maps.

The final stretch of the walk leads you directly into the heart of Namba. This area is famous for its bright neon signs and delicious street food. The contrast between the elegant tree lights and neon signs is truly unique. You will finish your walk near the iconic and colorful Namba Hips building.

Walking the entire route allows you to experience the changing atmosphere of Osaka. The northern sections feel sophisticated while the southern areas are energetic and loud. You can stop at various cafes along the way for a quick rest. This route is the best way to see the city's winter charm.

Best Photo Spots Along the Midosuji Route

Stop at the Osaka City Central Public Hall for truly amazing winter photos. This historic building glows with special projection mapping displays during the festive season. It is a very short detour from the main Midosuji boulevard walk. Many tourists consider this one of the best photo spots in Osaka.

The intersection near the Nike store in Shinsaibashi offers great long-distance perspectives. You can capture the long line of glowing trees stretching into the distance. Use a steady surface or a small tripod for the best night results. The lights look especially beautiful on the pavement just after a light rain.

• Osaka City Central Public Hall (Projection Mapping)
• Shinsaibashi Intersection (Long Perspective)
• Suomachi-dori Crossing (Vibrant Colors)
• Namba Hips Area (Neon Contrast)

Look for the overhead pedestrian bridges to get a high-angle view of the street. These bridges allow you to see the river of lights from above. You can find several of these bridges between Honmachi and Shinsaibashi stations. Ensure you stay safe while taking photos on these busy public walkways.

Tips for Your 2026 Winter Visit

The lights typically turn on around 5:00 PM every evening in Osaka. They remain lit until 11:00 PM for most of the winter season. Visiting on a weekday helps you avoid the largest and busiest weekend crowds. You can find more details on when the lights turn on nightly.

Dress warmly because Osaka winters can feel quite damp and very chilly. Wear comfortable walking shoes since the entire route covers four long kilometers. You will find many convenience stores along the boulevard for quick snacks. Most of these shops offer heated seating areas for a short break.

The event is completely free to enjoy for all local and international visitors. You do not need any tickets to walk along the public sidewalks. Consider using the Japan National Tourism Organization website for weather updates. Plan your visit between late November and early January for 2026.

If you get tired, you can use the Midosuji Subway line. There are several stations located directly beneath the walking route for easy access. This allows you to skip sections or return to your hotel quickly. The subway runs frequently until late at night throughout the entire city.