With its beautifully preserved historical buildings and immaculately landscaped grounds, Nijo Castle is arguably Kyoto’s most impressive attraction. This spring, you can experience the Unesco World Heritage Site in a whole new light during a limited-time night opening, complete with immersive performances, special-access areas and seasonal illuminations.
Award-winning director Junichi Yasuda is presenting an immersive theatre production in a space dominated by a massive 5m-by-29m LED screen, with mesmerising visuals that will engulf your entire field of vision. Titled ‘Shirogeki’ for short, the show is an artistic retelling of the historic Kan’ei Imperial Visit in 1626. Expect a high-energy, multi-sensory spectacle featuring samurai and ninja sword fights, traditional Kyoto dances, immersive surround sound and captivating digital graphics.
Also, for the first time ever, the awe-inspiring Ninomaru Palace will be open for night-time viewing. You can wander through the National Treasure and admire its refined architectural details including the exquisite gold-leaf wall paintings, while experiencing the palace’s historic atmosphere bathed in light and shadow.
Of course, no spring event in Kyoto would be complete without cherry blossom illuminations. Projection mapping and light displays inspired by the iconic flower will appear throughout the castle grounds, especially at Ninomaru Palace, the South Gate wall, Sakura Garden, the Honmaru Turret Gate and the Seiryu-en Garden.
Over at Nigiwai Square, a lively market will serve Kyoto specialities including local wine from Kyoto Winery Shijo Kawaramachi Brewery and craft beer from Nishijin Beer. You’ll also find exhibitions and sales of traditional crafts, plus hands-on workshops led by artisans. So it’s best to set aside an entire evening for this Nijo Castle event.
Tickets are available in several combinations: admission plus Ninomaru Palace viewing (¥2,000–¥3,200), admission plus immersive theatre (¥3,000–¥3,800), or the full set with all the experiences (¥3,500–¥4,700). Early-bird tickets with a ¥400 discount are available until March 18.
