A Must-See in Japan at Year’s End: The Dreamlike “Arashiyama Lantern Path” Illuminates Kyoto at Night

Reported and photographed by reporter Tsai Wen-jun / from Japan

Following the autumn foliage, the most poetic light festival in Japan’s Kansai region every year is none other than Kyoto’s “Arashiyama Lantern Path.” Rather than being adorned with densely packed, dazzling lights, the event features variously shaped lanterns scattered along a meandering route, leading all the way to Togetsukyo Bridge. With the background of the forested mountains and illuminated bridges, the main streets are bathed in a magical glow—offering a romantic scene that can only be seen in winter.

The Arashiyama Lantern Path begins at Nakanoshima Park, passes by Togetsukyo Bridge, and continues through the main street near Tenryu-ji Temple, the Bamboo Grove Path, and extends all the way to Nison-in Temple. Along the banks of the Katsura River, you’ll find a variety of paper lanterns painted with special patterns standing at every corner, forming a corridor of light. Togetsukyo Bridge is illuminated with various lighting effects that highlight both the bridge and the distant mountains, making it a classic spot beloved by photographers.

Beyond the main street, the illuminated Bamboo Grove Path is also a major highlight. Lit from the bottom up, the bamboo forest takes on an entirely different atmosphere at night. Various renowned temples such as Nison-in, Jōjakkō-ji, and the Daikōchi Sanso estate also offer special evening prayer access. For those who wish to enjoy the most poetic lantern festival, the “Arashiyama Lantern Path” runs from today until the 18th.