Every August, Nara becomes magical at night during an event called Nara Tokae. This special summer event takes place in Nara Park and nearby areas.

During Tokae, thousands of small candles are placed on the ground and lit after sunset. The candles create a warm and peaceful atmosphere throughout the park. Famous places such as Tōdai-ji, Kasuga Taisha, and Ukimido Pond are softly illuminated by candlelight.

One of the nicest things about Tokae is the calm feeling. Even though many people visit, the atmosphere is quiet and relaxing. Visitors walk slowly through the park, take photos, and enjoy the gentle light from the candles.

The name Tokae (燈花会) has a poetic meaning. 燈 means light or lamp, 花 means flower, and 会 means gathering. The candles placed across Nara Park look like small flowers of light, so the name can be understood as “a gathering of candle flowers.”

There is also a small play on words in the name. Tokae usually lasts for about ten days in August, and the Japanese word 十日 (tōka) means “ten days.” Because 燈花 (tōka) and 十日 (tōka) sound the same, the name Tokae also hints at the ten-day length of the event.

The modern Tokae festival began in 1999. (Did you go to the first one? I did!) Local volunteers and community groups started the candle event to celebrate the beauty and history of Nara at night. Since then, it has grown into one of the city’s most famous summer traditions.

August in Nara is very hot during the day, and the nights are still hot and sticky. However, Tokae is a great reason to take an evening walk and enjoy the candles.

If you are in Nara in August, I highly recommend visiting Tokae at least once. It is one of the most beautiful summer events in the city.