Nijo Castle, one of Kyoto’s most famous cherry blossom viewing spots, will be transformed into a magical night-time sakura world created by NAKED digital art. Immerse yourself in the beauty of a spring evening where cherry blossoms and art intertwine within this historic castle.

This event has many highlights! The main attraction is a mesmerizing cherry blossom light show, making it the perfect backdrop for photos in kimono!

If you’re worried about not making it in time to return the kimono after the night event, Yumeyakata provides next-day return and mail-back services. (Same-day returns must be made by 17:30.)

Normally, kimono rentals must be returned by 17:30 on the same day. However, if your reservation is after 12:00 PM, you can return it the next day for free (between 9:00–17:00). Additionally, you can return the kimono via hotel or convenience store mail service for 880 yen. Take your time and fully enjoy the NAKED meets Nijo Castle 2025 Sakura Festival!

[Visit between 9:00–11:30]
Next-day return: +1,100 yen → +550 yen
Next-day mail-back return: +1,980 yen → +1,430 yen

[Visit between 12:00–16:00]
Next-day return: +1,100 yen → Free
Next-day mail-back return: +1,980 yen → +880 yen

How to Reserve

Special kimono rental and ticket packages are available on KKDAY at a great price!

Enjoy the Nijo Castle Sakura Festival

Wearing a kimono while taking photos makes the experience even more enchanting! Immerse yourself in the full beauty of the Nijo Castle Sakura Festival.

Important Cultural Property: Karamon Gate Projection Mapping “Awakening of Spring”

The guardian dragon deity, ‘Sakuramori,’ awakens to herald the arrival of spring. Cherry blossoms bloom on the magnificent carvings of Karamon Gate, and the dragon deity appears amidst the swirling petals carried by the spring breeze. Enjoy this breathtaking fusion of history and fantasy.

Yatai Street Food Area (Near the South Gate)

Cherry blossom petal patterns illuminate the castle walls, creating a dreamy light show. Enjoy seasonal flavors at the food stalls featuring sakura-themed drinks, delicacies, and classic yatai street foods. Savor the charm of spring under traditional red parasols.

Sakura Garden Light & Sound Installation “Garden of Spring Thunder”

This interactive light and sound installation brings a blizzard of falling cherry blossoms to life. The lights change in response to visitors’ movements, transforming the garden into a mystical realm infused with the spirit of the dragon deity.

Honmaru Palace Disney’s Snow White Commemorative Projection Mapping Show

A special projection mapping show at Honmaru Palace celebrates the release of Disney’s Snow White. Enjoy a unique fusion of Japanese culture and fairy tale magic, featuring iconic motifs and characters from the beloved film.

Inner Moat Projection Mapping Show “Cherry Blossom Splendor” & DANDELION PROJECT with Kyoto’s Children

The inner moat transforms into a breathtaking sea of cherry blossoms in full bloom. The castle’s waters reflect the dancing dragon deity that protects the sakura. As the grand finale, the scene unfolds into a spectacular display of Nijo Castle’s mystical power.

2025 marks the 80th anniversary of the end of World War II. As part of artist Ryotaro Muramatsu’s participatory art initiative, DANDELION PROJECT, this collaboration with Kyoto’s children symbolizes prayers for peace. After learning about Nijo Castle’s history as a place untouched by war, children will create cherry blossom illustrations to be displayed, representing their wishes for a peaceful future.

Kountei Illuminated Exhibition

The cherry blossom-lit Kountei Pavilion reflects on the water, creating an ethereal scene. The entire garden is enveloped in warm, welcoming lights, capturing the fleeting beauty of spring.

Seiryu-en Sakura Light-Up Exhibition “Sakura Wind”

Nijo Castle’s most magnificent cherry blossom avenue is transformed into a dreamlike spectacle with mesmerizing lights and music. The show celebrates the arrival of spring, allowing the blossoms to bloom vibrantly in the night sky.

Ninomaru Palace Courtyard Banquet Area “Evening Sakura Garden”

Step into a peach blossom paradise with a banquet area surrounding the historic sakura trees that have stood since the era of the Taisei Hōkan (Restoration of Imperial Rule). Enjoy original cocktails and spring-themed appetizers at the SUNTORY Japanese Craft Gin ROKU Bar. Indulge in a special moment where cherry blossoms, lights, and history merge.

Event Dates & Access

March 14 (Fri) – April 13 (Sun), 2025

18:00–22:00 (Last entry at 21:00)

For specific dates—March 22 (Sat), March 29 (Sat), April 5 (Sat), and April 12 (Sat)—a special “designated date ticket” is required for entry. Other ticket types will not be valid on these days.

Former Imperial Villa Nijo Castle 541 Nijojo-cho, Nakagyo-ku, Kyoto 606-8341, Japan

From Yumeyakata: Walk 5 minutes west → Take the subway at Gojo Station → Get off at Nijojo-mae Station → Walk 2 minutes (Approx. 25 min total)

Kyoto Kimono Rental Yumeyakata Gojo Store