Aomori Nebuta Decoration Brightens Christmas at Shangri-La Tokyo

Aomori Nebuta Decoration at Shangri-La Tokyo

This year, Shangri-La Tokyo welcomes the Christmas season with exquisite decorations inspired by the traditional Aomori nebuta technique. Starting from November 6, the hotel is celebrating its collaboration with accomplished nebuta artist Asako Kitamura, marking the second year of this vibrant holiday display.

The inspiration for this project dates back several years when dedicated hotel staff, captivated by Kitamura’s nebuta creations, reached out to her with a desire to feature her festive artistry at Shangri-La Tokyo. Each element of the Christmas nebuta is meticulously crafted by Kitamura herself, ensuring that the decorations are uniquely designed for the hotel.

Creating a nebuta involves a detailed and labor-intensive process that spans several stages. For this year's Christmas decoration, the project took approximately two months to complete:

1. Conceptualization and Sketching
The first step involves a significant investment of time where the nebuta artist conceptualizes the design based on themes of joy and festivity. Initial sketches are drawn with pencil before being colored.

2. Preparation of Details
Precise calculations are essential for scaling, allowing the artist to prepare smaller components like limbs and tools that facilitate a smooth production process.

3. Frame Construction
A framework is created using wooden beams and wire, allowing the structure to be shaped for paper application. Historically, bamboo was used instead of wire.

4. Wiring for Lighting
Once the framework is established, nearly 1,000 lighting fixtures are usually installed inside a nebuta. For the Christmas nebuta at Shangri-La Tokyo, around 200 bulbs illuminate the masterpiece.

5. Paper Application
Washi, a type of traditional Japanese paper, is carefully adhered to the frame using glue. This stage demands precise techniques and patience to achieve the desired textures and dimensions.

6. Calligraphy
After applying the paper, black ink is used to define facial features, limbs, and outlines, adding depth and emotion to the figures.

7. Wax Application
Paraffin wax is melted and used to enhance the patterns, preventing ink bleeding and adding luminosity.

8. Final Coloring
The final step involves applying vibrant colors using dyes and water-based pigments, culminating in a stunning display that truly comes to life.

The centerpiece of Shangri-La Tokyo’s Christmas decor for 2025, the nebuta captures the essence of joy and communal love during the holiday season. It features lively reindeer, owls, and foxes adorning a large Christmas tree with bright ribbons, while rabbits and hedgehogs pose cheerfully in the scene. Beneath the tree, colorful gift boxes are stacked high, one of which bears a heartfelt message from the hotel: "Find your Shangri-La in a World of Enchanted Wonders."

The design also incorporates the Shangri-La 'S' logo at three notable spots and includes a hidden angel motif, inviting guests to explore the decoration for these special details.

Asako Kitamura shared her thoughts on this year’s creation:
"Christmas scenes often depict animals celebrating together. I hope this nebuta can inspire a balance between humanity and nature, especially in light of contemporary environmental challenges."

Matthias Sutter, the General Manager of Shangri-La Tokyo, expressed his enthusiasm:
"This year, our hearts are warmly lit by the nebuta’s glow. The enchanting blend of Japanese tradition and Western magnificence creates a magical ambiance, reminding us of the joy that comes from diverse cultures uniting during Christmas."

As the crisp winter air envelops the city, Shangri-La Tokyo invites families and loved ones to witness the warmth and magic of the nebuta Christmas decoration, making this holiday season truly unforgettable.

Overview of the Christmas Nebuta

- Duration: November 6, 2025 - December 25, 2025
- Location: Lobby on the 28th floor
- Artist: Asako Kitamura

The display is open to both guests staying at the hotel and the general public. For more information, please contact:
Tel: 03-6739-7888 (General inquiries)

About Shangri-La Tokyo

Shangri-La Tokyo, Japan’s first hotel brand under Shangri-La, celebrated its 15th anniversary last year. Located adjacent to Tokyo Station, the hotel features a total of 200 rooms across the top 11 floors of the Marunouchi Trust Tower Main Building. Within its elegant premises, guests can enjoy two restaurants—Italian dining at "Piacere" and Japanese cuisine at "Nadaman," alongside the "The Lobby Lounge." The Chi Spa, equipped with five treatment rooms, offers ancient Asian healing therapies.

Recognizing its consistently high hospitality standards, Shangri-La Tokyo has earned a prestigious 5-star rating from the Forbes Travel Guide for six consecutive years from 2018 to 2023.

For details, please visit Shangri-La Tokyo.