Nara Tōkae

What Is Nara Tōkae?

Nara Tōkae is a dreamlike candlelight event held each year in early August in Nara City, Nara Prefecture. Begun in 1999, it sees some 20,000 candles lit across Nara Park and its surrounding landmarks, enveloping the ancient capital in soft light on summer nights. The word tōka refers to the flower-like shape formed when a candle wick burns—long regarded as an auspicious sign. True to the name, countless flames bring blossoms of light to the Nara night.

History and Origins

Nara Tōkae is a relatively recent event, launched in 1999 with the wish to create a new summer tradition for Nara. Set across the Nara Park area, where historic temples, shrines, and nature intertwine, it was conceived to beautifully illuminate the scenery of the ancient capital with candlelight. With each passing year its venues and scale have expanded, and it has grown into one of the signature summer events of Nara, welcoming many visitors.

Highlights

The greatest attraction is the magical sight of Nara's famous landmarks—Ukimidō, Ukigumo Field, Kasugano Field, Sarusawa Pond, Tōdai-ji, and Kōfuku-ji—bathed in candlelight. Flames reflected on the water and the glow of countless candles spreading across the lawns create a mysterious atmosphere utterly unlike the daytime. Walking through the spacious grounds to take in the distinct candlelight displays of each area is a quiet pleasure that gently adorns a summer evening.

When It Takes Place

The event is typically held over about ten days from early to mid-August in and around Nara Park. It is a summer event, and the season is summer. The candles are lit at night, and because lighting times and dates vary from year to year by venue, visitors are advised to confirm details through Nara Tōkae's official announcements.

Access

The venue is the Nara Park area, within walking distance of Kintetsu Nara Station. From JR Nara Station, a bus is convenient. As the venues are spread over a wide area, comfortable walking attire is recommended. Since the event takes place on summer nights, it is also wise to prepare for the heat.

Around the Area

The Nara Park area is one of Japan's foremost sightseeing districts, with a concentration of World Heritage sites and national treasures including the Great Buddha of Tōdai-ji, Kasuga Taisha shrine, the five-storied pagoda of Kōfuku-ji, and the Nara National Museum. Strolling among the park's wild deer, visitors can savor history and culture by day and the magical candlelight of Tōkae by night, enjoying the charm of the ancient capital throughout the day.

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