Continuing Tokyo’s trend of dazzling nighttime events, digital creative company Hitohata – the force behind the ‘Ukiyo-e Immersive Art’ exhibit and large-scale projections on the Edo Castle moat – is bringing its Asakusa Culture & Lights show to Sensoji Temple. This projection mapping showcase celebrates the history and culture of the iconic temple in the heart of Asakusa.
The nightly shows feature high-resolution digital animations created using cutting-edge technology and displayed at three locations within the temple grounds: the south side of Hozomon Gate facing Kaminarimon Gate, Sensoji’s signature five-storey pagoda, and the smaller Nitenmon Gate by the temple’s east entrance. These light-ups are free to view, happening daily from December 3 to December 7 between 5.30pm and 9.30pm.
While you’re there, don’t miss the special nighttime viewing of Denboin Garden, a Japanese garden usually closed off to the public but now brilliantly and colourfully illuminated. The viewings happen daily and require a ¥3,000 (free for children under 6) ticket that has to be booked in advance.
In addition to the projection mapping shows at night, Asakusa Culture & Lights will include special daytime paid viewings of the temple’s Ema Hall, home to a valuable collection of votive plaques by renowned Edo-period (1603–1868) artists such as Utagawa Kuniyoshi, Hasegawa Settan and Kano Kazunobu.
Tickets for the Ema Hall also include access to the adjacent, tranquil Denboin Garden. An advance reservation is required, with tickets starting from ¥5,000.
For more information, visit the event website.
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