Experience the Nocturnal Beauty of Kyoto’s Cherry Blossoms: “KYOTO YOZAKURA tour” by Hotel The Celestine Kyoto Gion
Unwind Under Kyoto’s Cherry Blossoms: A Nighttime Tour in Gion
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Kyoto is famous for its mesmerizing cherry blossom season, and it’s no secret that the city draws visitors from around the world each spring. The delicate pink petals brighten parks, line rivers, and accent temples, and yet, the beauty of these blooms doesn’t disappear after sunset. When illuminated against the evening sky, the blossoms reveal an unforgettable side of Kyoto.
This year, Hotel The Celestine Kyoto Gion is launching the “KYOTO YOZAKURA tour,” a hotel-guest exclusive nighttime walking excursion guided in English. It’s an invitation to experience an enchanting side of the city, guided by staff who know its hidden corners and local stories.
A Limited-Time Evening Adventure
The “KYOTO YOZAKURA tour” will run for seven days during the height of the cherry blossom season: March 28, 29, and April 1, 2, 3, 4, and 5. The tour departs at 6:00 p.m. and returns around 7:00 p.m., making it a manageable one-hour excursion that fits neatly into an evening schedule. Participation is free, but limited to six people per session, ensuring an intimate atmosphere and allowing the guide to offer personalized attention.
Because spots are limited, interested guests are advised to reserve a spot at the hotel front desk by 9:00 p.m. the day before the desired date. Children under 12 can join, but only with a parent or guardian present. It should be noted that the event may be canceled if weather conditions are deemed to be unfavorable.
A Route Through Local Culture
Participants will be guided on foot by a knowledgeable member of the hotel staff, who speaks English and is well-versed in Kyoto’s history and traditions. The route highlights Miyagawa-cho, one of the city’s famous geisha districts, followed by the banks of the Kamo River, and then along the Takase River. In spring, the Takase River is adorned with rows of blooming cherry trees, which are illuminated once darkness settles in.
For those who have only seen photos of Kyoto’s iconic daytime blossoms, the idea of an evening tour might sound unusual. But once you see the branches lit from below, reflecting off the water, it becomes clear that night viewing is a special part of local culture. The crisp evening air, the sound of water flowing in the background, and the soft glow of lanterns all contribute to a romantic setting that’s distinctly Kyoto. This style of cherry blossom viewing, often referred to as “yozakura,” or “nighttime sakura,” is embraced by residents who enjoy strolling the streets after work or dining in nearby establishments with a view of the illuminated trees. By joining the tour, visitors can experience this slice of Kyoto life under the guidance of someone who knows the area well.
English Guidance for Global Travelers
One of the biggest challenges for international travelers in Kyoto can be navigating the subtleties of local customs and discovering points of interest that aren’t always featured in guidebooks. Hotel The Celestine Kyoto Gion addresses this by offering an English-language tour led by staff who can explain the context behind each stop.
The result is a richer experience that goes beyond simple sightseeing. Instead of walking past a row of cherry trees, participants learn about the significance of these trees, their connection to local traditions, and how the neighborhood has evolved over centuries.
Hotel The Celestine Kyoto Gion
The Celestine Kyoto Gion is operated by Mitsui Fudosan Hotel Management, which manages a range of properties including Mitsui Garden Hotels and The Celestine Hotels. Located in the Gion district on Yasaka Street, this particular property is close to Kennin-ji Temple, the oldest Zen temple in Kyoto. The hotel is designed to reflect the city’s history in a modern context, with guestrooms that combine traditional elements and contemporary comforts.
Guests have access to a dedicated lounge offering amenities such as origami paper, writing sets, and refreshments. There’s also a relaxing large bath area with a view of the hotel’s “ancient garden” design, providing a moment of calm after a day of exploration. In the morning, you can enjoy a meal inspired by local specialties, including a range of dishes that reflect the area’s culinary heritage. The hotel aims to present the essence of Kyoto in every aspect of the stay, from design to dining to personalized services.
For those arriving by train, the property is about 10 minutes by taxi from Kyoto Station. Guests can also take advantage of a complimentary shuttle bus that runs from Kyoto Station’s Hachijo Exit to the hotel in roughly 10 minutes. If you prefer traveling by subway, the closest major station is Gion-Shijo on the Keihan Main Line, about a 10-minute walk away. Hankyu Railway’s Kyoto-Kawaramachi Station is also nearby, at around a 12-minute walk. The hotel’s central location makes it an ideal base for exploring the city by day and returning for a peaceful evening.
“KYOTO YOZAKURA tour” by Hotel The Celestine Kyoto Gion
March 28th and 29th; April 1st to 5th 2025
From 6:00PM to 7:00PM
 Access |
Free shuttle available from Kyoto Station’s Hachijo Exit. Alternatively, 10-min by taxi from Kyoto Station or 10-min walk fro Gion-Shijo Station. |
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 Official Website |
https://www.celestinehotels.jp/kyoto-gion/ |
For more information about cherry blossom spots and events in Japan, please check the following articles too!
Written by
Photographer, journalist, and avid urban cyclist, making sense of Japan since 2017. I was born in Caracas and lived for 14 years in Barcelona before moving to Tokyo. Currently working towards my goal of visiting every prefecture in Japan, I hope to share with readers the everlasting joy of discovery and the neverending urge to keep exploring.
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