All the Best Things to Do at the Newest Winter Tradition in Fukuoka: Christmas Advent
Starting in 2013, this event has become a staple winter tradition in Fukuoka. In 2023, its official named changed, evolving into a full-fledged “Christmas Advent”. Aside from all the dazzling illuminations at each site you’ll also find warm drinks, tasty eats and whimsical Christmas merchandise on sale. Set out and see Fukuoka all alight in winter, filled with love, joy, and hope!
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What is Christmas Advent?
This Christmas event is primarily held in the Hakata and Tenjin areas. The term "Advent" refers to the period from the Sunday closest to November 30th until Christmas Eve, meant to symbolize a sense of anticipation ahead of the birth of Christ. From the inaugural year, the event was held at venues like JR Hakata Station front plaza and expanded to the Fukuoka City Hall West Side Fureai Plaza, Daimaru Passage Plaza, Tenjin Central Park, the Guest House, and Fukuoka Daimyo Garden City, totaling 6 venues.
Check out the larger-than-life trees and illumination spectaculars, along with a pairing of mulled wine, or other drinks to enjoy with a bite to eat. Christmas goods like wreaths and ornaments are also available for sale. Live performances such as opera and classical music on stage are sure to ring in the yuletide mood.
In the Nakasu area, connecting Hakata and Tenjin, you’ll find the Nakasu Hikari no Advent display lluminates Nakasu Central Street, Naka River Street, Meiji Street, and Fuku-Haku Deai Bridge, transforming the entire town into a space celebrating the arrival of Christmas.
Highlights of 2023?
In 2023, along with the traditional venues, Fukuoka's new landmark, "Fukuoka Daimyo Garden City," which features offices, hotels, and commercial facilities, joins the list. Just like Hakata and Tenjin, hot wine and Christmas merchandise will be available.
Food and Original Merchandise!
Set out to the street at night for a hot drink that’s sure to warm you up! Glühwein (mulled wine), is a winter drink staple in Germany, typically spiced wine heated with syrup. Other drinks like hot chocolate and hot grape juice are also available, poured into original mugs that feature a new design every year. Once the mugs sell out, drinks are provided in paper cups only. As they sell out every year, best to get them quickly.
The most popular food item is the "Guruguru Sausage", followed by turkey, pizza, and sweets. Imported Christmas goods, like snow globes and dishware, are also available. Among them, the German traditional candle holder, which illuminates a vivid illustration when lit, is a perfect interior decoration for the Christmas season.
How do I get there?
The main venue in the Hakata area, JR Hakata Station Front Plaza, is about a 1-minute walk from JR Hakata Station. For venues in the Tenjin area like Tenjin Central Park, Fukuoka City Hall West-side Fureai Plaza, Guest House Front Plaza, Fukuoka Daimyo Garden City, and Daimaru Fukuoka Tenjin Store Elgala Passage Plaza, it's convenient to access from the Nishitetsu Fukuoka (Tenjin) Station.
