Name in Japanese and English

• SENDAI光のページェント in 泉パークタウン
• SENDAI Pageant of Starlight in Izumi Park Town

History

The SENDAI Hikari no Pageant in Izumi Park Town is an extension of the famous city-center illumination, adapted to the elegant residential setting of Izumi Park Town (泉パークタウン). Launched to energize this district designed after Western green suburbs, the event has become a major winter tradition in Miyagi Prefecture.

While the main event on Jozenji Avenue lasts only a few weeks in December, the Izumi Park Town version stands out for its exceptional duration, often stretching from November until the end of February. It encompasses the commercial areas of Tapio (タピオ) and the Sendai Izumi Premium Outlets (仙台泉プレミアム・アウトレット), as well as the gardens of the Sendai Royal Park Hotel (仙台ロイヤルパークホテル).

Location and Date of the Event

• Location: Izumi Park Town area (Main avenue, shopping centers, and hotel gardens).
• Address: 宮城県仙台市泉区寺岡 (Teraoka, Izumi-ku, Sendai-shi, Miyagi).
• Access: From Izumi-Chuo Station (Nanboku Line), take a bus (approx. 20 min) to the Teraoka Itchome Kita or Sendai Izumi Premium Outlets stop. Large free parking available.
• Date: From early November to late February.

Event Details

The event is not a ritual festival but a luminous stroll through several interconnected zones. The main artery is lined with Keyaki trees (Japanese zelkovas) decorated with thousands of amber LEDs, creating a European-style tunnel of light.

The most anticipated moment is the Starlight Wink (スターライト・ウインク): three times every evening (6 PM, 7 PM, 8 PM), all the lights on the avenue turn off simultaneously before turning back on together, triggering cheers from visitors. Meanwhile, the Sendai Royal Park Hotel opens its garden to the public, featuring hanging lanterns in the forest and magical reflections on the central pond.

The Tapio and Outlets shopping centers complete the atmosphere with giant Christmas trees and themed decorations, making the district a prime destination for families and couples seeking a romantic (romanchikku / ロマンチック) atmosphere.

Practical Advice

Photos

The viewpoint from the bridge connecting Tapio to the Outlets offers a plunging perspective of the illuminated avenue. For the hotel garden, a tripod is recommended to capture the still reflections on the water.

Weather

Winter evenings in Izumi are very windy and often colder than central Sendai. Temperatures can feel like 0°C or below as early as 6 PM. Dress warmly (long coat, scarf).

Transport

By car, access via the Izumi IC interchange is simple and parking is vast. If using the bus, plan to return before 9:30 PM to avoid missing the last connections to Izumi-Chuo subway station.

Visitor Tips

Visit between 5:30 PM and 7:30 PM to enjoy the first two "Starlight Winks." The hotel garden is accessible for free even for non-residents; don't miss entering for a calmer and more luxurious atmosphere.

To Bring

Hand warmers (kairo), a power bank (cold drains phone batteries), and a budget for a hot drink at one of the complex's many cafes.

Sources & References

• Official Site - Hikari no Pageant in Izumi

  Information on main avenue hours and the Starlight Wink event.

• Sendai Royal Park Hotel - Garden Illumination

  Details on specific hotel garden and lantern illuminations.