In early to mid-March, the entire Higashiyama area in eastern Kyoto gears up to for the fun-filled night event known as the Higashiyama hanatouro.
It is one of Kyoto’s most popular festival.
Approximately 2,500 lanterns will illuminate a 5 km walking path, from Kiyomizu-dera Temple in the south to Maruyama-koen Park, through Yasaka Shrine up to Shoren-in Temple in the north.
The lights turn on at 6 pm and last until 9:30 pm, with lanterns lighting the paths.
A chance for tourists to enjoy what Higashiyama has to offer after dark when temples and stores in this traditional area are usually closed, the Higashiyama Hanatouro is held for ten days.
Not only do several shrines and temples offer special night admissions and illuminated gardens and buildings, but a lot of the event can be enjoyed for free simply by strolling through the area and admiring artwork created by local students, stunning living flower arrangements, and various performances such as maiko dances and a fox bride procession.
Higashiyama hanatouro
・Ikebana Promenade
10 large flower arrangements are displayed along the Hanatoro Pathway.
・Dedicatory Dance by Maiko
Maiko from the five entertainment areas in Kyoto will perform a dedicatory dance at Yasaka Shrine. Taking the stage at Maiden(Dance Hall) in Yasaka-shrine.
Date: March 15th,16th,17th
Time: 6:30 pm/7:00 pm/ 7:30 pm
・Fox bride procession
In accordance with local legend, a new bride, playing the role of the fox, rides a rikisha and parade from Chion-in to Kodai-ji temple.
Date: March 8th-17th
Time: 7:00 pm/8:00 pm
・Special Opening & Illuminations
Shoren-in Temple, Yasaka Shrine, Kodai-ji Temple, Entoku-in Temple, Hokan-ji Temple (the Yasaka Pagoda), Kiyomizu-dera Temple
Date:
March 8 (Fri) – 17 (Sun), 2019
Time:
6:00 p.m.-9:30 p.m.
Access:
City Bus 206 (from “Chion-in-mae (Chion-in Temple)” to “Gojo-zaka”), Subway Tozai Line to Higashiyama Station
Admission Fee:
Free
*Some locations may require an entry fee
Website:
http://www.hanatouro.jp/e/higashiyama/index.html
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