Cocoon City, the shopping complex connected to the east exit of JR Saitama-Shintoshin Station, is holding its first Christmas market this winter. It runs for 49 days, from Saturday, November 7 to Friday, December 25, 2026, and entry is free. Here is what you need to know before you go: hours, the one-day break on opening day, and what is actually there.
Dates, hours and entry fee
| Dates | Sat, November 7 – Fri, December 25, 2026 (49 days) |
|---|---|
| Hours | 12:00–22:00 (last orders 21:30) |
| Opening day | Nov 7 only: scheduled break 16:30–18:45 (last orders before the break 16:00) |
| Entry | Free |
| Venue | Outdoor areas of Cocoon City, Saitama-Shintoshin |
The one thing that can catch you out is opening day. On Saturday, November 7, the market is scheduled to pause from 16:30 to 18:45, and the last food and drink orders before the break close at 16:00. If you plan to go that evening, arrive after 18:45 or come early in the afternoon.
Where the market is
The market sits outdoors around Cocoon City (コクーンシティ), a shopping complex run by Katakura Industries (片倉工業株式会社) and directly connected to the east exit of JR Saitama-Shintoshin Station. The listed areas are:
- Cocoon Hiroba plaza at Cocoon 2
- Keyaki Walk
- Omotenashi Plaza
- Other outdoor spaces around the complex
With the market spread over several spots, strolling between them is part of the fun. Champagne-gold lights line the way, and a large arch marks the entrance to the market.
What you will find there
The organizers describe it as a market for lingering rather than a quick look at the lights. Expect these:
Food and drinks come in easy-to-carry portions, so you can wander the stalls with a cup in hand or sit down in the eat-in area. There are benches too, if you just want to rest and watch the lights.
The press release does not list menu prices. Keep in mind that the photos show sample items: containers, serving style and the line-up may differ, and items can change or sell out depending on supply.
Before you go
- Opening day: plan around the 16:30–18:45 break on November 7.
- Evenings run long: the market stays open until 22:00, with last orders at 21:30. If you will be taking photos all evening, a free power bank rental through d VALUE PASS and ChargeSPOT can save you from a dead phone.
- Planning more outings? The Asoview campaign with up to ¥3,000 off covers other leisure spots, and our guides to the Setagaya Tamagawa fireworks and the Shibaura Canal Festival show how we cover other free events.
Questions can go to the Cocoon City Christmas Market Executive Committee, whose office is run by the operator, Kataoka Sangyo Co. Ltd. (株式会社片岡産業): email [email protected], or phone 070-9368-5446 on weekdays from 10:00 to 17:00. The original announcement is on PR TIMES.
FAQ
- Q. Is there an entry fee?
- No. Entry to the market is free. The press release does not list food or drink prices, so check the official site for those.
- Q. What are the opening hours?
- 12:00 to 22:00 during the run, with last orders at 21:30. On Saturday, November 7 only, the market is scheduled to close from 16:30 to 18:45, with last orders at 16:00 before the break.
- Q. Where exactly is the market?
- Outdoors at Cocoon City, including Cocoon Hiroba at Cocoon 2, Keyaki Walk and Omotenashi Plaza. Cocoon City is directly connected to the east exit of JR Saitama-Shintoshin Station.
- Q. Does the market open in the rain?
- The press release does not say. Check the official site or Instagram before going on a wet day.
- Q. Can I buy Christmas presents there?
- Yes. Wagons selling Christmas goods will be at the market, for gifts or for yourself.
Information as of October 9, 2026, based on the organizer’s announcement. Details may change; please confirm on the official site.