Kyoto's scenic mountainside railway line transforms into a festive gathering place each winter with the return of Christmas Station in Yase, a beloved community event held annually at Yase-Hieizanguchi Station. Organized by Eizan Electric Railway together with the local Yase Eizan Preservation Society, the event brings together families, students, and visitors for a heartwarming day of holiday fun at one of Kyoto's most atmospheric historic stations.
Set within the station's distinctive 100-year-old dome-roofed building, the celebration spreads across the platforms and the adjoining Station Terrace with seasonal decorations, hands-on workshops, and lively performances. Local elementary school students, university groups, and community organizations take to the stage with brass band music, cheerleading, live band performances, picture book readings, and interactive Christmas-themed games that create a lively, family-friendly atmosphere throughout the day.
One of the most popular highlights is the operation of special Happy Christmas trains running between Demachiyanagi Station and Yase-Hieizanguchi Station. Those arriving on these festive services are welcomed by Santa himself, who hands out small gifts to young passengers and adds an extra layer of holiday magic to the journey.
Around the station square and event spaces, visitors can enjoy police vehicle and mini fire engine displays, illumination decorations, caricature drawings, balloon art, tin badge making, and a variety of craft workshops. Cat-themed goods and activities inspired by Kyoto's famous Neko Neko Temple are also a favorite with families.
Food stalls are another major draw, offering comforting winter flavors and local specialties ranging from oden, curry, and ramen to rice balls, baked sweets, coffee, and roasted sweet potatoes. Admission to the event itself is free, with some workshops and food available for purchase.
Extending the festive mood beyond the main event, the station also hosts a seasonal illumination program known as Illumi-station, bathing the historic structure in soft winter light for several weeks.
