World Heritage Site Transformed into a Light Sculpture Spectacle: Nijo Castle Cherry Blossom Festival, the World’s Most Stunning

By MOOK Scenic Spots Editorial Department

Japan’s cherry blossom season has begun. Kyoto’s cherry blossom spots are not only romantic but also possess a unique charm under the influence of the ancient city. Kyoto’s most anticipated popular event, the “Nijo Castle Cherry Blossom Festival,” allows visitors to admire over 50 varieties and more than 300 prized cherry blossom trees, including Somei Yoshino and Yae-zakura, within the World Heritage Site of Nijo Castle. The night-time light projection show, an added highlight, is a must-see springtime spectacle for both domestic and international travelers.

The wildly popular Nijo Castle Cherry Blossom Festival attracted over 300,000 visitors in 2017. This year marks its second edition, running from March 23 to April 15. Visitors can enjoy not only the static beauty of cherry blossoms during the day and at night, but also dynamic modern art created through the interplay of light, shadows, and music, offering a truly unique cherry blossom experience.

In addition to continuing the immensely popular 3D light projection on the Karamon Gate, this year’s Nijo Castle Cherry Blossom Festival 2018 also features musical light effects. A white dragon image leaps from the Karamon Gate, soaring over the castle walls, perfectly complemented by the illumination of hundreds of blooming cherry blossoms inside the castle as they shimmer alongside the light show.