Kyoto lantern illuminations

Lanterns light up the dark winter evenings around Kyoto's most famous sights

For a few selected days during the winter months, some of Kyoto's most famous sights and attractive backstreets are lined with lanterns, making for a magical atmosphere. Many temples and shrines extend their visiting hours, allowing lucky winter visitors to experience a different side of Kyoto, and take some very unique photographs.

Along with the lanterns there are other light displays and also floral displays and occasional street performances. Kyoto is a wonderful city at any time of year, but Hanatoro adds an extra touch of sparkle to those visiting during the colder months.

When to go: Hanatoro takes place in the Arashiyama district of northwest Kyoto in December and Higashiyama district in eastern Kyoto in March. Please ask for the precise dates as these change each year.