Lantern roads aren’t only in Arashiyama anymore — five kilometers of candlelit pathways are incredibly romantic

By MOOK Scenic Spots Editorial Department, compiled and reported

In addition to enjoying the spectacular views of Kyoto’s Arashiyama Lantern Road in winter, you can also witness beautiful lantern road scenery in spring. Every March, in the eastern part of Kyoto, after sunset, within the shrines, temples, and narrow alleys, starting from Seiryoji Temple at the foot of Mount Higashiyama to the famous Kiyomizu-dera Temple, 5 kilometers of the road will be illuminated with warm lights.

The Higashiyama Lantern Road features 2,500 lanterns installed along the route; when night falls, strolling through the ancient capital of Kyoto under the flickering shadows creates a uniquely enchanting atmosphere. During the lighting period, some temples also participate by holding their own illumination events, opening their doors for nighttime visits. Among these, visitors can even enjoy performances by maiko and geiko dancing to honor the deities at Yasaka Shrine, guiding travelers in Kyoto into a romantic and colorful imaginative world.