Halloween in Japan is about much more than costumes. From local events and photo sessions to decorating your home, there are many ways to enjoy the season. If you want to experience a little Japanese-style Halloween from abroad, here are five ideas to try this year.
1. Dress Up for Halloween
In Japan, classic costumes such as witches and devils are joined by anime-inspired, gothic and Japanese-style outfits. Costume contests are also planned in Shibuya in 2026, and dressing up and taking photos has become a familiar part of Halloween fun.
On Rakuten Japan, you can find a three-piece adult costume inspired by Little Red Riding Hood. The set includes a cape, dress and gloves, making it easy to put together an outfit for Halloween events or photo sessions.
View the Halloween costume on Rakuten Japan
2. Give Your Room a Halloween Makeover
You do not have to go out to enjoy Halloween. A few pumpkins or ghost decorations on your entrance table or desk can instantly add a seasonal touch. Japanese online stores also offer plenty of Halloween decorations with a cute twist.
On Rakuten Japan, you can find a five-piece decoration set featuring pumpkins, ghosts and other Halloween motifs. The compact ornaments are easy to display in an entrance area or on a tabletop, making them a simple way to enjoy Halloween at home.
View the five-piece Halloween decoration set on Rakuten Japan
3. Enjoy Halloween Photo Spots and Photography
In Japan, taking memorable photos has become almost as much a part of Halloween as dressing up. A Shibuya event in 2026 is also scheduled to feature a photo spot and photo contest. You can recreate some of that atmosphere at home by combining a costume with Halloween decorations to create your own Japanese-inspired photo setup.
4. Join a Local Halloween Event
Halloween in Japan is not limited to large street gatherings. Shopping districts and other local facilities also organize community events. On October 17, 2026, a Halloween event in Shibuya is scheduled to include activities such as a children's costume contest and festival stalls. If you are visiting Japan, check the official event information for opening hours and costume rules before attending.
5. Mix “Cute” with “Spooky”
One of the fun things about Halloween in Japan is that it does not have to be completely scary. Black cats, ghosts and pumpkins are often transformed into cute characters and decorations. Whether you go all out with cosplay or simply add one Halloween ornament to your room, you can enjoy this Japanese autumn event in your own way.
