In this eighth edition, I visit Kyoto’s Nijo Castle in kimono to experience “NAKED Sakura Festival 2024.” Produced by the creative company NAKED, INC., this evening event blends digital art with cherry blossoms at a World Heritage site, offering photo spots where kimono shines beautifully against a backdrop of light and projection.
Projection Mapping on the Important Cultural Property Karamon Gate
The event opens with a breathtaking projection mapping show on the Karamon Gate. Dynamic images of lions and dragons dance across the historic gate, soon enveloped in shimmering showers of pink petals. This dazzling spectacle is a perfect photo opportunity.
Cherry blossoms projected onto the castle walls, lanterns glowing pink and purple, and softly lit andon lamps at your feet guide visitors deeper into the castle grounds. The path leads to a garden where cherry blossoms are in full bloom.
Illuminations at the South Gate
Cherry blossoms projected onto the castle walls, lanterns glowing pink and purple, and softly lit andon lamps at your feet guide visitors deeper into the castle grounds. The path leads to a garden where cherry blossoms are in full bloom.
“Sakura Moonlit Picture Scroll” on the Inner Moat
Built by Tokugawa Ieyasu, Nijo Castle once served as a residence for shoguns visiting Kyoto. Inside the National Treasure Ninomaru Palace, visitors find masterpieces of the Kano school, alongside exquisite carvings and metal fittings. During the festival, a grand projection mapping show called “Sakura Moonlit Picture Scroll” unfolds across the 140-meter-long southern inner moat. Inspired by golden folding screens, the majestic visuals shimmer beneath the spring night sky.
Light-up of Koun-tei Pavilion
The Koun-tei Pavilion in Seiryu-en Garden glows with cherry hues, transforming the daytime scenery into a romantic nighttime view.
Nearby, the Kitchen Courtyard becomes a festive dining area with projection mapping of cherry banquets on the castle walls. Visitors can enjoy cherry-themed drinks and sweets, such as vegan matcha soy lattes, sakura chai tea, and sakura-colored cocktails made with organic lemons. Light snacks and sweets perfect for hanami are also available.
The event also features exclusive merchandise such as spring-inspired aroma oils created in collaboration with @aroma and tenugui dyed in Kaga style—perfect mementos of the evening.
Premium Hanami Area
For those seeking a private space, a “Premium Hanami Area” offers a luxurious experience. Guests can enjoy Kyoto’s traditional matcha and wagashi from Fukujuen, sakura sake, and even take commemorative photos with samurai. Tickets for this special area are limited and sold on a first-come, first-served basis, available only as a set with event admission.
World Heritage Nijo Castle becomes a stage where cutting-edge technology transforms the ancient tradition of cherry blossom viewing into an immersive art experience. Enjoy the harmony of history, innovation, and the beauty of kimono in this extraordinary nighttime festival.
Photo by Asami Shigaki
NAKED Sakura Festival 2024
at World Heritage Nijo Castle
＜Period＞
March 8 (Fri) – April 7 (Sun), 2024
＜Venue＞
Nijo Castle
541 Nijojo-cho, Horikawa Nishiiru, Nijo-dori, Nakagyo-ku, Kyoto
＜Hours＞
18:00〜22:00（最終入場21:00）
＜Admission ・Regular＞
Mon–Thu: Adults 2,000 JPY / Children (Elementary) 1,200 JPY
Fri, Sat, Sun, Holidays: Adults 2,400 JPY / Children 1,600 JPY
*Special Dates (Mar 23 & 30)
Adults 2,800 JPY / Children 2,000 JPY.
Official Site＞＞
Inquiries
Kyodo Information
+81-570-200-888
.
◾️NAKED Sakura Festival 2024 Office
+81-50-1750-3979
.
