A magical evening in spring in Kyoto: Kiyomizu-dera Temple, Toji Temple, Nijo Castle, Kodai-ji Temple, Hirano Shrine, and Maruyama Park
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In spring, Kyoto hosts light-up events in various locations, where famous sites are bathed in beautiful lights. Why not enjoy historic shrines and cherry blossoms in a fantastic atmosphere that is different from daytime?
Kiyomizu-dera
A fantastical stage floating in a sea of cherry blossoms
Completely different from the bustling daytime scene, at night Kiyomizu-dera Temple is shrouded in light and shadow, creating a mysterious space. The moment when the stage, wrapped in cherry blossoms, emerges in the dark night is truly a spring miracle.
Period : March 25th to April 3rd
Special feature : The stage of Kiyomizu, surrounded by cherry blossoms, is lit up at night, creating a fantastical landscape.
Time : 18:00-21:00 (reception closes)
Access by city bus
- Take bus number 203 from Nishioji Shijo bus stop (B platform)
- Get off at Gion bus stop
- Walk about 20 minutes to Kiyomizu-dera Temple (wander around Gion area)
To-ji Temple
A five-story pagoda and cherry blossoms at night, Kyoto and one of its most majestic sights
The oldest five-story pagoda in Japan is surrounded by cherry blossoms and towers into the night sky. This is a scene that symbolizes the Kyoto night, where history and nature blend together.
Period : March 15th - April 13th
Special feature : Ereathtaking night cherry blossoms with the iconic Five-Story Pagoda as a backdrop, plus special evening access to the kondo and Kodo halls.
Time :18:00-21:30 (visitor reception closes at 21:00)
Access by city bus
- Take bus No. 202 from Nishioji Shijo bus stop (Platform A)
- Get off at Toji Temple South Gate
- Walk 5 minutes to Toji Temple entrance
or - Take bus No. 71 or Toku 71 from Nishioji Shijo bus stop (Platform B)
- Get off at Toji Temple East Gate
- It's just a short walk from the Toji Temple entrance, but due to admission restrictions, you will have to go to the end of the long line
Nijo Castle
Art of light and cherry blossoms, time travel at night
The historic castle is fused with projection mapping to create an otherworldly beauty. Enjoy a special experience on a spring night with cherry blossoms and dancing lights.
Period : March 14th - April 13th
Special feature : An art space that combines projection mapping and lighting
Time : 18:00-22:00 (last admission: 21:00)
Access by city bus
- Take route 67 from Nishioji Shijo Bus Station (Platform B)
- Get off at Nijo Castle
- Right in front
Kodai-ji
Nene's spring dream, the fantasy of weeping cherry blossoms
The temple beloved by Toyotomi Hideyoshi's wife, Nene, transforms into another world on spring nights. Enjoy a special moment where history intertwines with the weeping cherry blossoms illuminated by the mystical beauty.
Period : March 14th to May 6th
Special feature : A fantastical view created by weeping cherry blossoms and projection mapping
Time : Sunset lights-21:30 (gates close at 22:00)
Access by city bus
- Take bus number 203 from Nishioji Shijo bus stop (B platform)
- Get off at Gion bus stop
- Walk about 7 minutes to Kodai-ji (wander around Gion area)
Hirano Shrine
A spring paradise with 400 cherry trees in full bloom
This traditional beauty is known as "Hirano no Yozakura." Countless cherry blossoms float in the night sky, creating a spectacular view that will add color to your spring feast.
Period : March 22nd to April 13th
Characteristics : "Hirano no Yozakura" where 400 cherry trees bloom
Time : From sunset to around 21:00
Access by city bus
- Take bus number 205 from Nishioji Shijo bus stop (E platform)
- Get off at Kinugasa school bus stop
- Short walk
Maruyama Park
Gion's weeping cherry blossoms, a symbol of Kyoto bathed in light
The overwhelming presence of a single cherry tree. The illuminated weeping cherry tree gracefully illuminates Kyoto at night, captivating all who see it.
Period : March 25th to April 9th
Features : The highlight is the lighting up of the famous "Gion Weeping Cherry Blossoms"
Time : 18:00-22:00
Access by city bus
- Take bus number 203 from Nishioji Shijo bus stop (B platform)
- Get off at Gion bus stop
- Walk about ５ minutes to Maruyama Park (wander around Gion area)
Enjoy the spring evenings of Kyoto with the beautiful combination of cherry blossoms and lights❗️
*Please check the official website of each facility for details on the illuminations and the latest information.
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