Nara Tokae
Lantern FestivalKansai(Nara)
Annual eventDates
—
Venue
Nara Park (Ukigumo Garden, Asajigahara, Ukimido and surrounding areas)
Admission
Free
Crowd Level
Moderate crowdKansai(Nara)
Annual eventDates
—
Venue
Nara Park (Ukigumo Garden, Asajigahara, Ukimido and surrounding areas)
Admission
Free
Crowd Level
Moderate crowdSummer is festival season in Japan. From massive fireworks shows to ancient dance traditions, here are the must-see summer festivals and practical tips for enjoying them.
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Over 20,000 candles illuminate the grounds around Nara Park temples.
Nara Tokae is a summer lantern festival that transforms Nara Park into a sea of candlelight with over 20,000 candles. Held annually since 1999, the event illuminates the grounds around World Heritage temples and shrines including Todaiji and Kasuga Taisha, creating an enchanting atmosphere against the backdrop of ancient Nara.
Nara Tokae takes place from 2026-08-05 to 2026-08-14.
Nara Tokae is held at Nara Park (Ukigumo Garden, Asajigahara, Ukimido and surrounding areas) in Nara, Japan.
Yes, Nara Tokae is free to attend.
The admission fee for Nara Tokae is ¥0.
The crowd level at Nara Tokae is typically moderate.
Yes, Nara Tokae is held annually.
Nara Tokae is a lantern festival in Japan.
Highlights of Nara Tokae include: Over 20,000 candles illuminating Nara Park at dusk; Floating candles at Ukimido pavilion on Sagi-ike Pond; Silhouettes of Nara's famous deer among the candlelight.
Tips for Nara Tokae: Arrive by 18:30 before peak crowds gather. Wear comfortable shoes as the venue spans a wide area. You can participate by placing your own candle for a small donation..
Nara Tokae welcomes international visitors. It is a great way to experience Japanese culture.
Access information for Nara Tokae: JR Nara Station or Kintetsu Nara Station, 15-minute walk to Nara Park.
Comfortable walking shoes are recommended. Tips: Arrive by 18:30 before peak crowds gather. Wear comfortable shoes as the venue spans a wide area. You can participate by placing your own candle for a small donation..
Photography is generally welcome at Nara Tokae. Check specific rules at the venue.
Nara Tokae is a family-friendly festival that visitors of all ages can enjoy.
Festival food stalls (yatai) at Nara Tokae typically serve popular Japanese street food including yakisoba, takoyaki, and kakigori. Some festivals feature regional specialties.
Yes, wearing a yukata (casual kimono) is very common and encouraged at Nara Tokae. Many visitors rent yukata nearby.
Parking can be limited during Nara Tokae. Public transportation is recommended. Check access details: JR Nara Station or Kintetsu Nara Station, 15-minute walk to Nara Park.
Over 20,000 candles illuminating Nara Park at dusk; Floating candles at Ukimido pavilion on Sagi-ike Pond; Silhouettes of Nara's famous deer among the candlelight
JR Nara Station or Kintetsu Nara Station, 15-minute walk to Nara Park
Arrive by 18:30 before peak crowds gather. Wear comfortable shoes as the venue spans a wide area. You can participate by placing your own candle for a small donation.
📍 Nara Park (Ukigumo Garden, Asajigahara, Ukimido and surrounding areas)