Night Walk in Yamashina: Illuminate the Sakura Experience
Kyoto's Yamashina district is set to dazzle visitors with its first-ever nighttime cherry blossom lighting event from April 3 to April 5, 2026. Titled
'NAKED Night Walk - Kyoto Yamashina', this spectacular celebration not only marks the 50th anniversary of the Yamashina District but also honors the local area’s natural beauty through the enchanting illumination of cherry blossoms and rapeseed flowers at Yamashina Waterway Park and Higashiyama Natural Green Space.
Organized in collaboration with Kyoto City under the
meetus Yamashina-Daigo initiative, the event aims to enhance local outreach and embrace the rich heritage connected to the Yamashina Waterway's scenic value. Rather than merely focusing on attracting visitors, this project seeks to reimagine and sustainably promote the region's cultural and environmental treasures.
The Essence of meetus Yamashina-Daigo
The
meetus Yamashina-Daigo project symbolizes a commitment to harmonizing lifestyle and tourism while revitalizing the community's resources. By re-envisioning the region's offerings, the initiative strives to integrate cultural charm and economic growth sustainably. Through innovative
nighttime content, NAKED aims to implement this vision, presenting a unique experience aligned with locals' needs and interests.
Event Highlights
1.
Illumination Show
For the first time ever, Yamashina Waterway Park will showcase a striking nighttime lift, illuminating the cherry blossoms and rapeseed flowers. Free to view and no prior registration needed, guests of all ages can immerse themselves in this visually captivating landscape.
2.
NAKED Distance Lantern® Rentals
For those looking to enhance their experience, participants can rent the popular
NAKED Distance Lantern® for just 500 yen. Featuring a special Yamashina design, these lanterns, adorned with motifs of cherry blossoms and rapeseed, invite participants to contribute to the magical atmosphere. Additionally, a lantern workshop offers attendees the chance to personalize their creations for an added touch of fun, available for 800 yen.
Please note that the lanterns crafted during the workshop cannot be taken home.
3.
Merchandise Sales
In order to enrich the cherry blossom viewing experience, various goods, including items from the official character 'Motenasu-kun' of the Yamashina Sanjo Road Shopping District, will be available for purchase. Attendees can find picnic mats and other comfortable accessories to enhance the event atmosphere and create lasting memories.
4.
NAKED Hanamikuji®
A special interactive art installation,
NAKED Hanamikuji®, allows guests to choose artificial flowers to create their unique flower fortunes. Not only will participants engage in artistic creation, but they can also keep the charm of the experience as a memento of the event.
Event Information
- - Location: Yamashina Waterway Park and Higashiyama Natural Green Space, Kyoto City Yamashina Ward
- - Dates: April 3 (Fri) to April 5 (Sun), 2026. The event will be held rain or shine, but may be canceled in case of severe weather.
- - Hours: 5:00 PM to 9:00 PM
- - Organizer: NAKED, INC.
- - Co-organizer: Kyoto City
- - Support: Kyoto City Tourism Association
- - Special Collaboration: Toyota Konic Pro Co., Ltd.
Whether you're a local or a tourist, the
NAKED Night Walk - Kyoto Yamashina event represents a harmonious blend of art, nature, and community spirit. Get ready to immerse yourself in the magical beauty of illuminated cherry blossoms while celebrating the rich cultural heritage of this lovely district!
About NAKED, INC.
Founded in 1997 by Ryotaro Muramatsu,
NAKED, INC. is a creative company that thrives on the principles of “Core Creative, Total Creation, and Borderless Creativity.” Over the years, they have merged the realms of art, entertainment, culture, tradition, education, music, urban life, food, and sports into unique experiences that resonate with the public. Recent projects include
NAKED GARDEN ONE KYOTO, which showcases Kyoto culture through metaverse and AR/VR technologies, and the
Garden Project scheduled for 2025 at Kyoto Station, where traditional culture, food, and art will converge.
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