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Nara Toka-e Light Festival

Nara Toka-e is an annual summer night event in Nara Park amongst World Heritage Sites. Countless number of candles light the Nara Park, creating a beautiful and fantastic atmosphere. This event has grown to be a famous summer event of Nara, attracting many people every year.

 

Time: 19:00 - 21:45   August 5 (Thursday) to 14 (Saturday), 2010

Place: Please see “Lit-up areas” below.

Contact: Nara Toka-e no Kai   0742-21-7515

Access: From Kintetsu Nara Station, walk east for 5 to 15 minutes.

       From JR Nara Station, walk east along Sanjo-dori Street for 15 to 30 minutes.

 

[Lit-up areas]

Kofukuji Temple

The five-storied pagoda is one of the national treasures of Kofukuji Temple. The illuminated pagoda and bundles of candle lights displays the ancient capital of Nara in a different light than when seen during the day.
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Sarusawa-ike Pond and the 52 Stairs

Sarusawa-ike pond is lined with candle lights and its surface reflects the five-storied pagoda of Kofukuji Temple, creating a picturesque night view. Seen from this site, Kofukuji Temple shows a different aspect of itself. Connecting the pond and the temple are 52 stone stairs. Candles are also set on both sides of the stairs. The stairs are the entrance to guide visitors to the world of the Toka-e Light Festival.

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Ukimido Pavilion and Sagi-ike Pond

Ukimido Pavilion, Sagi-ike Pond and the surrounding area create a fantastic view filled with candle lights. Candles are placed around Sagi-ike Pond and on Horai Bridge which leads to Ukimido Pavilion. Even the boats floating on the pond have candles on the bows. Visitors may enjoy the lights from the boats
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Asajigahara

Asajigahara woods are affiliated with Kasuga Taisha Shrine. Here, bamboo and lights form a wonderful combination. Visitors will find an aspect of Toka-e which cannot be found in other areas. If lucky, they may encounter deer.
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Ukigumo Field

The area is located in front of the New Public Hall and lit with about 4,000 candles. In Nara, history and culture have been cherished to this day. Each light lit in this land of rich historic and cultural assets soothes people’s hearts and invites them to a world of fantasy.
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Nara National Museum

The museum which contains many ancient art pieces and the pond in front of it are surrounded by the light of the moon and candles. Also, the museum itself is illuminated, highlighting the beauty of the building.
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Kasugano Field

Candles are lit around the spacious and lush lawn. Walking over the large green field in the moonlight with the calm candle lights has a special soothing effect on visitors.