Nara Tōkae

Overview

The Nara Tōkae, also known as the Nara Candle Festival, is an annual event held in Nara Park, Nara City, Nara Prefecture, for about ten days in early August (in recent years from August 5 to August 14). The lighting hours are from 7:00 PM to 9:30 PM, and the event takes place across nine venues: Ukigumo-enchi, Asajigahara, Ukimi-dō, Kōfuku-ji, Sarusawa-ike Pond and Fifty-two Steps, in front of the Nara National Museum, the Nara Kasugano International Forum Iraka, the area around Tōdai-ji's Kagami-ike Pond (August 13 and 14 only), and the approach to Kasuga Taisha Shrine (August 14 only). The event is generally held in early August with free admission (though some experiences such as "Ippyaku Ittō" are paid) .

A defining characteristic of this event is that it is operated entirely by volunteers under the leadership of the NPO Nara Tōkae no Kai. The NPO has approximately 250 members, who wear red T-shirts as their uniform, and they are involved in the planning and operation of the event year-round. The "Hito (Light Person) Supporters," who handle tasks such as arranging cups, lighting candles, and cleaning up during the event period, are recruited annually from June, with a daily limit of about 300 people. When combined with the members, approximately 400 volunteers per day, or a total of about 4,000 people over the entire event period, operate the Nara Tōkae . This handcrafted warmth creates a unique charm that differentiates it from commercial events.

History and Origins

The Nara Tōkae is a relatively new event that began in 1999, not a long-standing traditional festival. It was conceived by groups including the Nara Chamber of Commerce and Industry Youth Division, who wanted to create a "festival unique to Nara" to revitalize the summer season when tourist numbers traditionally declined . Nara, which flourished as a capital 1,300 years ago, retains traces of ancient Japan within its vast natural landscapes, and the gentle light of candles, which evokes a sense of nostalgia, was chosen as the concept for this event .

In 2000, the second Nara Tōkae was held, and simultaneously the Nara Tōkae no Kai organization was founded. That same year, a "Winter Tōkae" was also held as a "21st Century COUNTDOWN in NARA" event, expanding the scope of activities . Around 2003, the candles used were changed to those made from palm oil, a natural and environmentally friendly material safe for deer even if accidentally eaten. This change resulted in almost no soot, reducing the frequency of cleaning the candle cups, and the candle shape was redesigned to incorporate the Tōkae logo .

In 2006, the "Akari Summit" (Light Summit) was launched jointly with Nara Prefecture. For the 10th anniversary in 2008, a collaboration with Tezuka Productions created a design featuring the "Fire Bird." In 2010, the 4th National Akari Summit was held in Nara, and the Tōkae was also implemented at events such as the Kumamoto Mizuakari (Water Light) festival . The 20th anniversary in 2018 was celebrated with a commemorative ceremony, the creation of a special logo and merchandise, and the holding of "Dispatch Tōkae" events in other locations.

In 2020, the event was held without spectators due to COVID-19 countermeasures, with live streaming on Niconico Douga and YouTube. That year, candles were arranged to form the character "祈" (prayer) at Kasuga Taisha, Tōdai-ji, and Kōfuku-ji as a prayer for the end of the pandemic . In 2021, while a pre-registration system was planned, the event was ultimately held without spectators. In 2022, the first in-person event in three years was realized, with seven venues operating: Ukigumo-enchi, Ukimi-dō, Kōfuku-ji, Sarusawa-ike Pond and Fifty-two Steps, Asajigahara, Tōdai-ji Kagami-ike, and the Kasuga Taisha approach.

In 2023, the 25th anniversary event featured the opening fire-lighting ceremony at JR Nara Station Square and an exhibit of Ikoma "Takayama Bamboo Akari" objects; however, the final day was cancelled due to the approach of Typhoon No. 7. In 2024, the "Tōka Café" resumed, the event was held at nine venues excluding Kasugano-enchi, and a Tōkae was also held at the Nara Mahoroba Kan in Tokyo for its 3rd anniversary relocation renewal fair . The organizer's wish is for this light to become a treasure of Nara that continues for 100 years .

Highlights

The Ippyaku Ittō (One Guest, One Light) Experience at Ukigumo-enchi At Ukigumo-enchi Ukishima, visitors can participate in the "Ippyaku Ittō" experience, where they place and light their own candle cup in any desired location. The reception is open from 7:00 PM to 9:00 PM, with a participation fee of 1,000 yen for two cups, allowing participants to become part of the fantastical landscape themselves . This experience offers a special opportunity for visitors not just to observe but to actively contribute to the creation of the Tōkae atmosphere. By lighting their own candle, each participant adds a unique flicker of light to the collective scene, fostering a sense of personal connection to the event.

The Tōdai-ji Kagami-ike Pond Venue (August 13 and 14 only) The area around Kagami-ike Pond at Tōdai-ji is a limited-time venue open only on August 13 and 14. The majestic architecture of Tōdai-ji, home to the Great Buddha of Nara, and the candlelight reflecting on the water surface create a breathtakingly beautiful scene . The illumination set against a national treasure-class building offers a unique spectacle where Nara's history and nature merge. The reflection of the candles in the pond doubles the visual impact, creating a symmetrical world of light that enhances the grandeur of the temple.

The Kasuga Taisha Shrine Approach Venue (August 14 only) For one night only on August 14, the approach to Kasuga Taisha Shrine becomes part of the Tōkae. This day coincides with the ancient Shinto ritual "Chūgen Mantōrō" at Kasuga Taisha, during which all approximately 3,000 stone and hanging lanterns on the shrine grounds are lit . The fusion of these two light festivals creates a solemn and breathtaking spectacle. The candlelight of the Tōkae and the sacred lantern light of the shrine combine to form a magnificent corridor of light, filling the night air with a profound spiritual atmosphere.

The Kōfuku-ji Venue with National Treasure Architecture At the Kōfuku-ji venue, candles are arranged against the backdrop of the national treasure five-story and three-story pagodas. Adjacent to the Sarusawa-ike Pond and Fifty-two Steps venue, the lights reflecting on the pond water and the silhouettes of the pagodas create a fantastical scene . Located in the heart of Nara Park, Kōfuku-ji is a bustling popular spot, offering one of the most atmospheric places to experience the ancient capital at night. The contrast between the centuries-old architecture and the delicate, temporary candle flames highlights the ephemeral beauty of the event.

The Hono Akari (Gentle Light) Live Event at the Iraka Venue At the Nara Kasugano International Forum Iraka, in addition to the "Ippyaku Ittō" experience, a "Hono Akari Live" is held on the 7th and 8th of August . This provides a special fusion of music and light within what is otherwise a quiet event focused on enjoying the gentle light. The live performance takes place in a space illuminated only by candlelight, offering an extraordinary experience distinct from daily life. The acoustic sounds blend with the flickering flames, creating a multi-sensory journey through sound and light.

The Handcrafted Spectacle Created by Volunteers The lighting and cleanup of tens of thousands of candles are all done by hand by volunteer staff. With about 400 people involved in operations each day, including members and "Light Person Supporters," this warmth is the reason the event is called a "handcrafted spectacle" . This effort has transformed the event beyond a mere tourist attraction, fostering a sense of unity between local residents and visitors, and has helped it grow into a popular event attracting over 900,000 people during the period. The personal touch of each volunteer lighting candles by hand infuses the event with a human warmth that cannot be replicated by machine or automation.

Attention to the Materials of the Light Since around 2003, the candles used have been changed to natural materials made from palm oil, designed to be safe even if accidentally eaten by deer, which are common in Nara Park. The candles produce almost no soot, reducing the frequency of cup cleaning, thus balancing environmental consideration with beautiful light . Since 2005, colored cups have also been used to add design through color, allowing for different chromatic expressions each year. This commitment to natural materials shows the organizers' dedication to coexisting with the park's famous deer population and preserving the natural environment.

Event Information and Access

1. Event Period: about ten days in early August (in recent years from August 5 to August 14). Please check the official website for the latest schedule. However, dates and times vary by venue: the Tōdai-ji Kagami-ike Pond venue is open only on August 13 and 14, and the Kasuga Taisha Shrine approach venue is open only on August 14 .

2. Lighting Hours: From 7:00 PM to 9:30 PM. Lighting occurs simultaneously at all venues, though times may change depending on weather conditions .

3. Admission Fee: Free. However, the "Ippyaku Ittō" experience at the Iraka venue requires a participation fee of 1,000 yen for two cups. Night-time visits to some temples may require a separate fee .

4. Access: From JR Nara Station or Kintetsu Nara Station, take the Nara Kotsu bus (city loop outer route) and get off at "Tōdai-ji Daibutsuden Kasuga Taisha-mae," then walk about 5 minutes. As Nara Park is the venue, walking from the stations is also possible, but due to expected congestion during the event period, use of public transportation is recommended .

5. Traffic Regulations: During the event period, traffic regulations are in place around Nara Park. Sanjo-dori (from Kamisanjo Intersection to south of Kōfuku-ji) is closed to general vehicles from August 5 to 14, 5:30 PM to 10:00 PM. The road north of Sarusawa-ike Pond is similarly regulated from August 5 to 14, 5:00 PM to 10:00 PM. The route from Kencho-Higashi Intersection to Daibutsuden-mae to Kasuga Taisha is closed to vehicles except buses, taxis, and authorized vehicles from August 13 to 15, 6:00 PM to 9:30 PM .

6. Weather Cancellations: The event is held in light rain but may be cancelled in case of severe weather or strong winds. It is held during light rain, but candles may extinguish depending on the intensity. For inquiries about the event's status, call the navigation dial at 0570-026-105. For the latest information, it is essential to check the official website (http://www.toukae.jp/) .

Surrounding Area Information

The Nara Park area, which hosts the Nara Tōkae, is dotted with temples and shrines registered as UNESCO World Heritage sites. Tōdai-ji is world-famous for its Great Buddha, and during the Tōkae period, the lights reflecting in Kagami-ike Pond harmonize with the majestic silhouette of the Daibutsuden (Great Buddha Hall). Kōfuku-ji's five-story pagoda is the second tallest ancient pagoda in Japan, and the scenery created by its reflection in Sarusawa-ike Pond combined with the Tōkae lights is one of Nara's representative nightscapes. Kasuga Taisha Shrine features approximately 3,000 stone and hanging lanterns, and especially on August 14, the day of the Chūgen Mantōrō, the Tōkae candlelight merges with the shrine's lantern light to create a sacred space.

Nara Park is home to many deer, beloved by visitors for their friendly interactions, including the famous deer crackers. In consideration of this ecosystem, the candles used at the Tōkae are made from natural materials safe for deer even if accidentally consumed . Additionally, cultural facilities such as the Nara National Museum and the Nara Kasugano International Forum Iraka are located nearby, allowing visitors to combine daytime sightseeing with the evening Tōkae for a full day of Nara exploration. The lush park areas of Ukigumo-enchi and Asajigahara transform into fantastical forests of light during the Tōkae period.

The Nara Tōkae takes place in the height of summer, with extreme heat common during the day, making sightseeing from late afternoon onwards recommended. The Naramachi area features cafes and souvenir shops housed in renovated traditional townhouses, where visitors can enjoy Nara's atmosphere before the Tōkae. Many restaurants and accommodation facilities are located around Kintetsu Nara Station and JR Nara Station, catering to tourists until late at night. However, as congestion is expected during the Tōkae period, using public transportation and allowing ample time for activities are recommended .

Related Information

1. Fireworks: No fireworks are launched at the Nara Tōkae. The core purpose is to enjoy the quiet, gentle light, and there are no lively festivities or loud sounds .

2. Meaning of "Tōkae": The term "Tōkae" refers to a flower-shaped clump that forms at the tip of a candle wick. It is considered an auspicious sign, and the event name carries the wish that all who visit will be happy .

3. Volunteer Participation: "Hito (Light Person) Supporters" who handle tasks such as cup arrangement, lighting, and cleanup during the event are recruited annually from June through the official website of the NPO Nara Tōkae no Kai. The daily limit is about 300 people, and advance application is required. Becoming a member allows for year-round involvement in the event's planning and operation .

4. Expansion to Other Regions: The Nara Tōkae has expanded beyond Nara Prefecture to other areas of Japan. In 2009, it was featured at the Yokohama 150th Anniversary of the Opening of the Port Exposition Nara Day. In 2012, a Tōkae was held in dedication at Meiji Jingū Shrine, and participation in events like Kumamoto Mizuakari has spread the "Tōkae" light to other regions .

5. Media Exposure: In 2017, the event was featured in a Kirin Beer commercial, significantly increasing public recognition. It has also been covered by numerous television programs and magazines, including a supporter experience segment on MBS's "Chichin Puipui" .

6. Checking the Latest Information: Schedules and the feasibility of the event may change due to weather or social conditions, so it is essential to check the official website (http://www.toukae.jp/) for the latest information. In recent years the event has been held for about ten days in early August, and the latest schedule can be confirmed on the official website .

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