Rozan-ji temple : Exploring the Tale of Genji
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Seasonal Japanese Garden
Nijo-jo Castle Light Up – Summer Festival in 2025
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Experience history reimagined at the summer digital art event at Nijo Castle. This magical evening puts a modern twist on the timeless Japanese tradition of “yuzusumi,” or enjoying the cool evening. Witness national treasures like the Ninomaru Palace and the Karamon Gate illuminated by breathtaking lights.
Contents
Highlights & What to Expect
Digital Art & Projection Mapping
Experience the magical illumination of national treasures and important cultural properties, including the Ninomaru Palace, the Karamon Gate, and the Ninomaru Garden. One highlight is the dynamic projection mapping of fireworks on the stone walls of the inner moat, accompanied by the soothing sounds of wind chimes and a Milky Way–themed light display.
Interactive Content: Kawato no NIWA
A new area called “Kawato no NIWA” debuts. Drawing inspiration from Kyoto’s summer traditions of riverside dining platforms and “sasabune” (small bamboo leaf boats), this area showcases nostalgic interactive art. Enjoy a digital riverside experience, play with virtual sasabune boats, and see illuminations designed to look like twinkling fireflies.
Food Stalls and Festival Games
There will be a variety of food stalls offering treats like shaved ice and Japanese sake. You can also try classic festival games like shooting galleries and candle scooping (additional fee required).
Event Schedule & Hours
Open Hours & Holiday
- Dates: Friday, July 25th to Sunday, August 24th, 2025.
- The event is open every day during this period.
- Hours: 6:30 PM to 10:00 PM (Last admission at 9:20 PM).
- This is a special nighttime event, and entry is separate from the regular daytime admission to the castle.
- Weather: The event will proceed in the rain but may be canceled in the case of severe weather.
- Please check the official X (formerly Twitter) account for any cancellation announcements.
Admission Fee & Ticket Purchase
Although you can buy tickets on-site, it is highly recommended that you purchase them online in advance to avoid waiting in line.
- Purchase tickets online:
Online ticket purchase
NAKED meets Nijo Castle 2025: Evening Cool Breeze
Ticket Types & Prices:
| Ticket Type | Days | Audience | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Early Bird (Until July 24) | Monday – Thursday | Junior High & Older | 1,400 JPY |
| Elementary School | 600 JPY | ||
| Friday – Sunday & Holidays | Junior High & Older | 1,800 JPY | |
| Elementary School | 1,000 JPY | ||
| Regular Price (From July 25) | Monday – Thursday | Junior High & Older | 1,800 JPY |
| Elementary School | 1,000 JPY | ||
| Friday – Sunday & Holidays | Junior High & Older | 2,200 JPY | |
| Elementary School | 1,400 JPY |
- Preschool-aged children enter for free.
- Admission is half-price for individuals with a disability certificate and one caregiver.
Tips for Avoiding Crowds
Visit later in the evening, around 9:00 p.m. However, be aware that on busy nights, entry may close before 9:20 p.m., and on-site ticket sales may be limited.
Location & Access
- Venue: Nijo Castle (UNESCO World Heritage Site)
- Address: 541 Nijojocho, Nijo-dori Horikawa Nishiiru, Nakagyo-ku, Kyoto
- Reception: Please enter through the west gate.
Access by Public Transportation:
- By Subway: A short walk from Nijojo-mae Station on the Tozai subway line.
- By Bus: Take the city bus to the “Nijojo-mae” stop.
- By JR Train: A 17-minute walk from JR Nijo Station.
Links & Resources
・Nijo-jo castle offcial website （English text）
・NAKED meets Nijojo castle in 2025(English text)
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