Written by Jane Pipkin
Researched by Carey Finn
This December, Heian Jingu Shrine in Kyoto is once again collaborating with the popular art collective NAKED to create a bright shrine experience on cold nights.
What happens?
The shrine’s most important properties, including the main shrine, Otenmon Gate, and Japanese garden, will feature colorful, inspiring digital art. You can expect spectacular projection mapping, with ethereal music emanating from the shrubbery.
Grab a lantern and make your way through the grounds, as the art offers an immersive entrypoint into traditional Japanese spirituality. The digital design is inspired by the Four Divine Beasts, the ancient guardian creatures believed to protect Kyoto.
Highlights 2025-2026
This year marks the 130-year anniversary of Heian Jingu Shrine.
A major attraction is the Daigokuden, which has just undergone an 18-month-long restoration. If you place a NAKED Distance Lantern on one of two special pillars in front of the building, your “prayers” will be projected onto the ground and then travel directly to the heart of the shrine. It looks really pretty.
Note: Until December 21st, one NAKED Distance Lantern® (usually ¥500) will be loaned free to each group of visitors. This is a token of appreciation for patience with the restoration work (although that is now 100% finished).
Stamp rally
On entry, you’ll receive a card to collect four special stamps around the shrine grounds. Only visible under black light, these stamps combine for a special projection display at the end of your stroll — as long as you can find the magic machine …
Schedule 2025-2026
There are two phases for the NAKED Yoru-Mairi event. The first goes from December 19 to 30, while the second goes from January 6 to 18.
Last entry is at 8:50 p.m., although it may close earlier on crowded evenings.
Tickets 2025-2026
You can buy tickets online (recommended) or at the gate (depending on availability).
From December 19 onwards, weekday tickets are ¥2,000 for adults and ¥1,000 for children, while weekend and holiday tickets are ¥2,400 for adults and ¥1,600 for children.
Kyoto residents receive a refund of ¥500 for adults after presenting proof of address or school enrolment, and children can enter for free. Preschoolers are always admitted free, and pets are not permitted.
Organizers may cancel events, alter schedules, or change admission requirements without notice. Always check official sites before heading to an event.- 0.8 km from Higashiyama Station Tōzai Line (T10)
- 1.0 km from Jingū-Marutamachi Station Keihan Main Line (KH41)
- 1.1 km from Sanjō Keihan Station Tōzai Line (T11)
