Edo Wonder Night is coming to Tochigi’s Edo Wonderland theme park across four special nights this October and November. By day, Edo Wonderland Nikko Edomura is already known for its authentic recreation of bustling town life in the Edo period (1603–1867), bringing together samurai, ninja, kimono and much more for an extraordinary experience and memorable evening in Nikko, Tochigi prefecture.
Edo Wonder Night dates:
- October 19th (Sat) & 26th (Sat
- November 9th (Sat) & 16th (Sat)
As the sun goes down this autumn, expect this Edo-period setting to truly come alive with illuminated streets, evening performances (including fireworks) and traditional activities to enjoy. Stroll Edo Wonderland’s streets and alleyways while enjoying festival food, like grilled pike, from the yatai stalls or people-watching the passersby. Look out for everything from oiran (geisha-style courtesans in flamboyant kimono wear) to Kabuki actors.
In fact, special guests will be appearing each night to entertain the crowds with traditional performances like Kyogen, traditional dance, katsuben-style narration and more. It’s a real chance to watch and appreciate some of Japan’s more treasured and unique culture and artforms that are typically harder to see. Watch the graceful movements of skilled dancers or gaze at the heroic acrobatics of ladder-riding Edo firemen — check the official site for the schedule which performers will attend on which day.
Try a traditional experience, like exploring the inside of a gambling hall where dice games like Cho-han (‘even-odd’) may have been played on tatami flooring. Watch a master swordsmith and iaido practitioner demonstrate their incredible skill and razor-sharp technique with a tatami-cutting performance, or catch a special evening rendition at the Ninja Theater, where dynamic sword battles and fast-paced martial arts play out in front of your very eyes.
What you need to know
Edo Wonder Night extends the park’s normal 5pm closing time to 8pm, and attendance is included in the price of the regular park ticket (both one-day and afternoon types).
Fireworks are planned for 6:20pm on each of the days, and special lodging/trip plans will be announced on the official website closer to the event.
Shuttle buses are being planned to help transport visitors back to local stations or lodging areas, like Kinugawa Onsen or Nikko Station.
Catch a sneak peek:
More info
Find out more about Edo Wonderland.
Tom Roseveare @tom.roseveare
Creative Director at Japan Travel, based in Tokyo. Feel free to reach out about living, working or travelling in Japan – just book a time.
