Nijo Castle Summer Light-Up 2025 by NAKED
NAKED Meets Nijo-jo Castle 2025: A Summer Flow of Light
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Japan’s summer bursts with festivals, street food, and seasonal delights. For a magical blend of tradition and light art, head to Kyoto’s Nijo Castle, where “NAKED meets Nijo Castle 2025: A Summer Flow of Light” returns this summer. Produced by NAKED, INC., this immersive event features glowing lanterns, riverside light displays, and cultural food stalls, turning the historic site into a dreamy summer escape.
About Nijo Castle
While Kyoto is renowned for its historical temples, shrines and preserved townscapes, there’s one underrated treasure that stands apart: Nijo Castle. Built in 1603 as the Kyoto residence of Tokugawa Ieyasu, Japan’s first shogun, Nijo Castle offers a different kind of cultural experience.
In spring, this UNESCO World Heritage Site draws crowds as one of Kyoto’s top cherry blossom spots, home to over 300 cherry trees across 50 varieties. But in summer, it turns into something even more magical, an illuminated wonderland thanks to the creative work of NAKED, INC.
NAKED, INC Light-up Event
Famous for their immersive digital art and projection mapping experiences, NAKED, INC. has brought new life to iconic landmarks across Japan, including Tokyo Station, Shinjuku Gyoen, and Heian Shrine. In recent years, their Nijo Castle light-up events have become a beloved seasonal tradition, blending digital innovation with Kyoto’s timeless elegance.
From 25 July to 24 August 2025, Nijo Castle in Kyoto transforms into a mesmerizing, immersive art installation with “NAKED meets Nijo Castle 2025: A Summer Flow of Light”. The event fills the castle grounds with enchanting light installations, interactive lanterns, riverside experiences, cultural food stalls, and serene summer ambience
NAKED meets Nijo Castle 2025: A Summer Flow of Light
Step into a fantasy realm where traditional Japanese “noryō” culture, an appreciation for cool summer ambiance, is reimagined through striking light art. Within the UNESCO World Heritage site, expect interactive lantern sculptures, glowing bamboo boats, riverfront seating, and illuminated food stalls serving shaved ice and sake.
Unveiled for the first time is “Kawato no NIWA”, a new area blending Edo-period nostalgia with contemporary design. Projection mapping brings the Ninomaru Garden and Palace walls to life with shimmering visuals.
Event Highlights
Firefly Path in Seiryuen — Walk along pathways glowing with tiny lights that mimic the gentle dance of fireflies, an enchanting homage to summer evenings.
Twilight Bloom by the Moat — Watch as the moat’s water reflects soft, magical lighting, turning ancient stones and walls into dreamlike scenery.
Glow Reverie at Ninomaru Palace — The historic palace courtyard becomes a poetic tableau of light, sound, and architecture with elegant projection mapping.
Special Yukata & Lantern Collaboration — In collaboration with Kyoto Kimono Passport, visitors dressed in kimono or yukata can rent a NAKED Distance Lantern for free, adding a personal, magical touch to your evening stroll.
Event Info & Tickets
- Dates: 25 July to 24 August 2025
- Hours: 18:30 to 22:00 (last entry at 21:20)
- Tickets: Advance sale from 1 July (¥1,800–¥2,200 for adults, with discounts for children and disabled visitors)
- Official Website: https://event.naked.works/nijojo/summer/ja/
Getting There & Visiting Tips
- Map: https://bit.ly/3XNXNta
- Access: A 3-minute walk from Nijojo-mae Station (Tozai Subway). Paid parking is available, but public transportation is recommended.
- Tip: Secure your ticket early for evening slots to ensure entry.
- Facilities: Enjoy traditional food stalls, offering festival fare like shaved ice, sake, yakitori, and local summer treats.
Nijo Castle’s summer light-up offers a unique blend of history and innovation, with projection mapping and glowing lanterns set against the backdrop of a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The event creates a magical, multisensory experience, perfect for capturing stunning night photos and soaking in Kyoto’s timeless charm.
For tickets and the latest info, visit the official site.
For more information about events in Japan this summer, please check following articles, too!
Written by
"The world is my oyster." As a dedicated globetrotter and hammock enthusiast, I’ve spent years chasing new experiences, collecting stories, and discovering the world’s most incredible destinations. Born and raised in Japan, I’ve always had a deep connection to my roots, but my love for adventure has led me to spend over a decade exploring countries across the globe—from culture-rich cities to remote hideaways.
Travel isn't just a hobby for me; it's a lifestyle. I'm constantly searching for new ways to fuel my wanderlust. Over the years, I’ve developed a wealth of knowledge and a treasure trove of tips that make traveling more enjoyable, practical, and meaningful.
Through my experiences, I've come to appreciate not only the beauty of travel but also the importance of understanding diverse cultures, embracing the unfamiliar, and stepping out of my comfort zone. My travels have shaped who I am today, and I’m excited to share those lessons with others.
With Japan Web Magazine, I aim to offer practical advice, insider tips, and firsthand stories that help travelers navigate their journeys to Japan or setting off on a global adventure. From hidden gems in Japan to travel hacks that make any trip smoother, I hope my insights inspire you to embark on your own adventures and make the most of every moment. Let’s explore the world together!
You can also find my stories here ▶ https://medium.com/@nahobm
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