18th Christmas Fantasy brings winter wonderland to Okinawa

Christmas in Japan is associated with romance; thus this “Tunnel of Love!” at last year’s Christmas Fantasy event.

As the Christmas and yearend season sets in, Okinawa is getting into full festive spirit with a number of fun holiday festivals and events taking place across the island. Practically every store plays traditional holiday jingles and there are all sorts of holiday activities on everyone’s to-do-list.

Each day ends with fireworks and laser show.

The Okinawa Zoo & Museum in Goya, Okinawa City, will celebrate its 18th annual Christmas Fantasy event from Dec. 22 through 28. The event will be packed with holiday cheer, sparkling lights, illuminated Christmas trees and decorations guaranteed to give everyone a fuzzy, nostalgic feeling to celebrate the holiday season.

The highlight of this annual event is a chance to revel in the beauty of real white snow that will be falling from snow machines three times each evening, guaranteed (start times: 17:30, 19:15, 20:40). There will also be a large snow slide and igloos where children can play although some of these attractions require an extra fee.

In addition, an artistic display of snow, lasers and fireworks held daily during the event is sure to be a highlight.

Advance tickets are available at Kadena ITT/MCCS Tours, and cost ¥1,700 for adults (high school students and over), and ¥1,000 for children aged 4 up to junior high school. Prices at the door will be ¥2,000 and ¥1,200 respectively. Admission is free for children three of age and under. Parking will be available at the Okinawa Zoo & Museum, Okinawa City Office and the Koza Sports Park. There will be a free shuttle service to get to and from the venue.

The Christmas Fantasy event runs from 4 to 9:30 p.m. each evening.

For more information, contact Christmas Fantasy Executive Committee at 098-936-0134 or visit their bi-lingual website www.xmas-fantasy.com

13:24 06 Nov , 2024