Places to get your festive feels in Niigata: Ikutopia

Another great spot for anyone wanting their festive-feeling-fix in Niigata is Ikutopia, and they host a great illumination event each year. This year's illuminations will be running until December 28th, and they're taking on the theme of a "Magical Flower Garden".

I haven't been out there yet this year (the photo is from a previous year) but it's a really nice place to check out during winter if you have the time. They still have loads of plants and flowers on display indoors, too, so you can get your fix!

Along with the illumination event, they're also hosting a dedicated Christmas festival on December 13th and 14th for 2025, with more information on that available here. Hope it brings you some holiday season joy if you end up visiting!