As spring arrives in March, it is not only the perfect season for cherry blossom viewing but also an ideal time for travelers to embark on a romantic journey through Kyoto.
When night falls, the historic Kōdai-ji Temple, with over 400 years of history, transforms under dazzling lights, opening its spring “Special Night Visit” featuring a spectacular light projection show.
Visitors are invited to immerse themselves in the enchanting spring scenery amid the tranquil night.
Spring at Kōdai-ji Temple: Lighting Up the Splendid Nights of Higashiyama
Established in 1605, Kōdai-ji Temple was built by the widow of Toyotomi Hideyoshi to honor her late husband.
Over the centuries, the temple has witnessed countless love stories, adding a romantic charm to this ancient site.
Held each spring and autumn, the “Special Night Visit” consistently draws visitors from across Japan and around the world, as the entire Higashiyama area glows with a unique brilliance at night.
Theme of Spring 2025: “Prayers – Spring”
This spring’s night-time light projection show continues the theme of “Prayers” from autumn 2024, drawing inspiration from Buddhist wisdom to convey the message: by praying for others, we ultimately find self-redemption.
Through the vibrant bloom of spring flowers and dynamic visual art, the gardens of Kōdai-ji Temple are transformed into a radiant spectacle of light and vitality.
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A Springtime Feast of Art in Light and Shadow
The night-time light show weaves together symbolic Chinese characters such as “Prayer,” “Joy, Anger, Sorrow, and Happiness,” with seasonal flowers carrying the same meanings — like the gardenia symbolizing joy, the dandelion representing happiness, and, of course, the cherry blossom, heralding the arrival of spring.
Together, they create a poetic visual feast of light and shadow, immersing visitors in the romantic ambiance of spring.
Explore Kyoto Comfortably, Away from the Crowds!
Want to enjoy the beauty of Kyoto’s spring nights with elegance? It’s recommended to check the real-time forecast for tourist crowd levels in Kyoto in advance.
This way, you can choose the best times and routes to avoid the crowds and fully enjoy the serene charm of Kyoto. The enchanting nights of spring are just around the corner — are you ready to head to Kōdai-ji Temple and immerse yourself in this captivating world of springtime lights and shadows?
Kōdai-ji Temple – Special Spring Night Visit
■ Address: 526 Shimogawara-cho, Kōdai-ji, Higashiyama-ku, Kyoto City
■ Access: About a 15-minute walk from Keihan Railway “Gion-Shijo” Station, about a 20-minute walk from Hankyu Railway “Kyoto-Kawaramachi” Station, or about a 7-minute walk from the city bus stop “Higashiyama Yasui.”
■ Event period: March 14, 2025 – May 6, 2025, 09:00–21:30 (gates close at 22:00)
