Giant Christmas Tree Lights Up Yokohama Red Brick Warehouse

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A towering Christmas tree has been illuminated at the iconic Yokohama Red Brick Warehouse near Yokohama Port. The lighting ceremony took place on November 22, coinciding with the opening of the annual Christmas Market.

Freelance announcer Aika Kanda attended the event and activated the lights by placing her hand over the control panel. The 10-meter-tall tree, adorned with approximately 20,000 LED lights in shades of white and blue, dazzled the crowd. Cheers and applause erupted from onlookers.

*Left: Visitors take selfies with the Christmas tree. Right: Freelance announcer Aika Kanda on stage at the lighting ceremony. (©Sankei by Masahiro Sakai)*

A Record Number of Stalls

This year, 2024, marks the 15th edition of the Christmas Market, themed "Memorial." Motoki Iwasaki, a representative of the Yokohama Red Brick Warehouse management company, shared his hopes for the event. "We aim to create an experience that stays in everyone's memory with this magnificent tree and sparkling illuminations," he said.

The venue features 58 stalls offering goods, food, and beverages — the highest number for the event. Admission is ¥500 (tax included, about $3 USD). Visitors can enjoy exclusive Christmas menu items, adding to the festive ambiance.

*A close-up of the Christmas tree decorations. (©Sankei by Masahiro Sakai)*

Getting in the Christmas Spirit

Kota Nakamura, an office worker visiting with his partner, said, "The chill in the air adds to the Christmas spirit. We're really enjoying the atmosphere and plan to come back on Christmas Day."

The Christmas Market will run until December 25, with the Christmas tree lighting up daily from 4:00 PM to 11:00 PM.