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Celebrate 400 Years of History at NAKED meets Nijo Castle

In 2026, the world heritage site of Nijo Castle will commemorate the 400th anniversary of the Kan'ei Going Out event, a significant historical celebration. The exhibition, titled NAKED meets Nijo Castle 2026, is carefully organized and produced by NAKED, Inc., a creative company known for blending technological experiences with compelling storytelling.

A Free Experience for the Younger Generation

This year's standout feature is the introduction of free admission for children under middle school age. By providing this opportunity, NAKED aims to encourage young minds to engage with cultural heritage and the history surrounding the iconic Nijo Castle. This initiative aligns with Kyoto City’s vision for 2026-2050, which strives to cultivate a rich understanding of nature, history, and culture among the youth. By opening this platform to children and offering discounted rates for students and city residents, NAKED seeks to inspire a new generation to appreciate Kyoto's treasures.

Discounted tickets are available for students and residents, providing substantial savings on general admission. The normal ticket prices are 2,000 yen on weekdays and 2,400 yen on weekends and holidays; with discounts, students will pay 1,500 yen and 1,900 yen, respectively, making this rich cultural experience more accessible to all.

Unraveling the Beauty of Edo Period Culture

The exhibition leads visitors through the aesthetics and design rooted in the Kan'ei era, established during the royal visit of Emperor Gōmitsu in 1626 at Nijo Castle. This event was not just a political affair, but a vibrant mingling of court and warrior culture, fostering an artistic explosion that included tea ceremonies, floral arrangements, fashion, and landscaping.

At the center of this exploration is Tokugawa Kazuko, the Emperor's consort, who championed both courtly and samurai cultural practices. This exhibition's narrative revolves around her, enlightening participants about the creative spirit of the Kan'ei era interpreted through modern artistic expressions. As part of the Kan'ei Going Out 400 Year Festival, the exhibition stands as a collaborative project showcasing the intertwining of past and present.

Three Highlights to Experience

1. Journey into Kazuko's Aesthetic World
In the opening section, guests will learn about Kazuko's life and her connections with Nijo Castle and Kan'ei culture. The first stop unveils the beautiful carvings of the important cultural property, the Karamon gate, which will be illuminated to highlight its intricate artistry, echoing the motifs and colors of the Kan'ei period. The journey continues to unfold the stories of the people and times.

2. Discover the Essence of Kan'ei Culture
Through a sequence of exhibits, participants will stroll from the Ninomaru Palace into the gardens, exploring various aspects of Kan'ei creativity. The tour includes recitations of Kazuko's poetry and correspondence, along with artistic displays inspired by traditional designs and colors. This immersive experience aims to connect visitors to the emotional landscapes of individuals during that vibrant historical period.

3. Engage Your Senses with Interactive Experiences
In the concluding section, visitors can partake in unique modern experiences inspired by the Kan'ei era's fashion and tea culture. Participants will select patterns from historical templates to create their own kimono designs at the Kozome no Aiya section, and enjoy a special night tea with interactive art designed around Kazuko's legacy, making it an experience beyond mere observation.

Event Details and Practical Information

Event Name: NAKED meets Nijo Castle 2026
Venue: Nijo Castle, Kyoto
Dates: October 23, 2026 - December 5, 2026
Times: 18:00 - 22:00 (Final entry at 21:00)
Ticketing Information: Early bird and standard tickets are available, with special rates for students and residents of Kyoto. Children under middle school age can enter for free, promoting family-friendly engagement with history.

Website: For more details and ticket reservations, visit official site.

Conclusion

The NAKED meets Nijo Castle 2026 exhibition presents an innovative and interactive way to celebrate not just the passing of time, but the essence of culture and art. It emerges as a crucial opportunity for families and children to step into the annals of Kyoto’s proud history through an artistic lens that invites curiosity, appreciation, and dialogue about our shared heritage.