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Have a Magical Night in Asakusa at Princess Kaguya, Tokyo’s Newest Light-Up Event

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Looking for a little Tokyo magic after dark this spring? Japan’s famous light shows and “illumination” events are often reserved for the coldest months of winter, but for a limited time, travelers visiting Asakusa can enter a world of lights and legends at the Princess Kaguya Asakusa light-up!

Princess Kaguya Asakusa Light-Up Event (プリンセスＫＡＧＵＹＡ 浅草)
Asakusa Ekimise Rooftop Terrace, 1-4-1 Hanakawado, Taito City, Tokyo
Event Dates: March 20 ~ April 13, 2025
Hours: 18:00 – 22:00
Admission: free!
Official Page (jp)

Open for just a few weeks in the heart of Asakusa, this special springtime event is being held on the roof of Asakusa Ekimise, a shopping and dining facility conveniently located above the Tobu Asakusa Station. Once you climb the last flight of steps to the very top of the building, however, stepping out into the fresh night air feels a little like stepping into a Japanese fairytale. This illumination is focused mainly on beautifully cut and sculpted bamboo lanterns, inspired by the thousand-year-old legend of Princess Kaguya, discovered as a tiny baby inside a glowing stalk of bamboo. Fans of Studio Ghibli may recognize this story from the beautiful animated rendition produced by the late Ghibli producer Isao Takahata! Visitors can experience a little of this legend’s ancient wonder in the warm glow of this unique installation art.

With the event located across the river from Tokyo Skytree, it’s easy to take pictures with the colorful silhouette of this Tokyo icon!

Despite the picturesque Tokyo scenery, the sea of artificial mist that flows across the illuminated rooftop really transports you to another world – or another era.

Asakusa is packed with enough Japanese culture and unique experiences to fill multiple days (find more on Asakusa here), but if you’re looking for a fun way to enjoy Tokyo at night, you’ll want to take the quick trip up the elevator to the very top of Asakusa Ekimise this spring – your fairytale is waiting!

For more info and updates from Japan, check Japankuru for new articles, and don’t forget to follow us on X (Twitter), Instagram, and Facebook!

Sophia Appelbaum

Sophia Appelbaum

Half a lifetime ago I came to Japan for a semester abroad... and I never left. I guess I really like the place! I spent my first few years in Japan living in the middle of nowhere, so I'd love to hear your Tokyo recommendations via Japan's social media accounts!

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