From 6 to 15 March 2020, one of Kyoto's districts, Higashiyama, dresses itself in illuminations during an event called Higashiyama Hanatoro.
Along the streets and the paths leading to the temples and shrines, more than 2,400 lanterns are placed to welcome spring.
Hanatoro means "road of flowers and light"
Many religious buildings (temples and shrines) and many shops stay open longer during this celebration. A stage is set up in the grounds of Kodaiji temple where you can watch live performances throughout the event.
Getting to Higashiyama Hanatoro from Kyoto
Higashiyama Hanatoro is easily accessible by bus, metro, taxi or on foot from Kyoto station.
The Higashiyama Hanatoro festivities mainly take place around Kiyomizudera and Yasaka-jinja. It's on foot that you'll be able to fully enjoy these illuminations in the evening.
A magical evening
While exploring the streets of Higashiyama during the Higashiyama Hanatoro, you'll feel teleported into another world. The soft light of the lanterns gives the district a mystical look and makes it even more beautiful than it already is.
In Maruyama Park, you can observe nearly a thousand bamboo lanterns floating on the Yoshimizu stream, offering you yet another magnificent spectacle.
Many local temples and shrines light up to celebrate the Higashiyama Hanatoro. Among them is Hokanji and its pagoda, considered the symbol of Higashiyama Hanatoro.
Take your time to wander the streets of Higashiyama in the evening during the Higashiyama Hanatoro. Watch the illuminations, attend the music concerts, the dance performances and the other shows of the day.
If you don't have the chance to see it for real, we've found you a video that reveals the splendour of the event:
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