The Kyoto Higashiyama Lantern Path lights up a 5-kilometer stretch of pathway candles—extraordinarily romantic
Last updated 2026-09-24 — Every year in March, in the Higashiyama area of Kyoto, Japan, after sunset, warm lights are lit in shrines, temples, and alleyways. During the illumination period, some temples also hold special lantern events and open their doors for night visits...
By the MOOK Scenic Spots Family Travel Life Network Editorial Team
Every year in March, in the Higashiyama area of Kyoto, Japan, after sunset, warm lights are lit in shrines, temples, and alleyways. During the illumination period, some temples also hold special lantern events and open their doors for night visits, where you can even see maiko and geiko performing sacred dances at Yasaka Shrine, guiding visitors to Kyoto into a romantic and colorful imaginative world.
Every year in March, in the Higashiyama area of Kyoto, Japan, after sunset, warm lights are lit in shrines, temples, and alleyways. During the illumination period, some temples also hold special lantern events and open their doors for night visits, where you can even see maiko and geiko performing sacred dances at Yasaka Shrine, guiding visitors to Kyoto into a romantic and colorful imaginative world.
Kyoto Higashiyama Lantern Path, with Shoren-in Temple participating in the illumination. (Image source / yakei-kabegami)
Maiko and geiko performances can be seen at Yasaka Shrine during the illumination period. (Image source / youtube)
Starting from Shoren-in Temple at the foot of Mount Higashiyama, the approximately 5-kilometer pathway runs through Maruyama Park and Yasaka Shrine, then winds southward toward Kiyomizu-dera Temple. Along this path, 2,500 lanterns are installed. After sunset, when the lights are turned on, the interplay of light and shadow on white walls, stone steps, swaying tree shadows, the soft glow of candles on the steps, and the warm lights from shops along the street present a uniquely charming view of Kyoto’s streets.
Romantic illuminations along the path warm up Kyoto nights during the illumination period. (Image source / kyoto0?ǖ坡珐
Night view of the Higashiyama Lantern Path, where Kiyomizu Tower and the illuminated alleyways perform a serene nocturne. (Image provided / TRAVELER Luxe Traveler Magazine)
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