Light Cycles Kyoto

This is not your average walk in the park.

What happens?

Kyoto’s oldest public garden is a sight for sore eyes nearly any time of year. But with this new event, you’re invited to experience its gorgeous foliage and flora after dark, with light, sound, and artistic projections highlighting details you may otherwise have missed.

The Conservatory offers a particularly striking display of glowing plants, allowing you a sneak peek at their hidden and surprisingly interesting lives. Ambient, gentle music sets the tone.

Schedule 2025

Hours shift depending on when you go.

From October 1 to February 28, the show runs from 6 to 9:30 p.m., with last entry at 8:30 p.m.

From March 1 to March 31, it runs from 6:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m., with last entry at 8:30 p.m.

It is closed on Mondays, except when Monday is a public holiday, in which case it closes the following Tuesday instead.

Tickets

You can purchase tickets for Light Cycles Kyoto online.

Advance tickets for adults (high school and above) are ¥2,000, while same-day tickets cost ¥2,500.

How to get there

The Kyoto Botanical Gardens are accessible via public transport. From Kitayama Station on the Karasuma Subway Line, use Exit 3 and walk for a few minutes. Alternatively, from Demachiyanagi Station on the Keihan Line, take the #1 Kyoto city bus and disembark at Shokubutsuen-mae (Kyoto Botanical Gardens). The venue is a 5-minute walk from the bus stop.