Japan: Light Cycles Kyoto
Active
45m
All sales are final. No refund is available for cancellations.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Kyoto Botanical Gardens, Japan’s oldest public botanical garden, marked its 100th anniversary in 2024 and is now opening its grounds at night for a limited time experience. After dark, the conservatory, one of the largest in Japan, transforms into a mesmerizing illuminated world. Through the use of light, sound, set design, and projections, the lush greenery is reimagined as a vibrant, glowing landscape that unveils the hidden energy of plants.
Visitors can explore four uniquely themed zones, each showcasing the subtle movements, colors, and rhythms of nature in a new light. Immerse yourself in this atmospheric journey and engage your senses as you discover the beauty of plants from a fresh perspective. LIGHT CYCLES KYOTO offers a distinctive, immersive experience that invites you to reconnect with the magic of nature after sunset.
Available options
Normal Season
Normal Season
Disability Certificate Holders
Disability Certificate Holders
What's included
Standard Admission
Detailed itinerary
1
Light Cycles Kyoto features four immersive multimedia installations, each designed to deepen your connection with the Kyoto Botanical Garden through light and sound, while highlighting different aspects of the natural world.
What's not included
Personal Expenses
Important information
Wheelchair accessible
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Public transportation options are available nearby
Transportation options are wheelchair accessible
All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Confirmation will be received at the time of booking.
A Viator/TripAdvisor confirmation booking will be sent at the time of confirmation is not the official ticket.
The service provider will send you a separate email with your actual ticket 24 hours before your travel date. This ticket will be the one recognized by the attraction. If you haven’t received it 24 hours before your visit, please reach out to GLOBALTIX on WhatsApp Message.
Experience duration is 45 minutes.
Closed on Mondays; if Monday is a national holiday, the event opens and closes the following Tuesday.
Ticket prices vary based on demand.
All ages are welcome; preschool children enter free.
Guests with a valid disability certificate and one accompanying person may purchase accessible tickets; ID verification required.
Event details, session availability, and guidelines may change without notice.
Entry may be delayed during peak crowds; late arrivals may be moved to the next available time slot.
Strollers, wheelchairs, mobility scooters, and other assistive devices are permitted.
Valid disability certificates must be presented upon request.
Re-entry is not allowed once inside.
The venue may refuse entry or remove guests who disrupt others, are intoxicated, or do not follow staff instructions.
The experience is primarily indoors, but outdoor access areas may be affected by weather; dress accordingly.
Pets are not allowed; service animals are permitted.
Children below secondary school age must be supervised at all times.
Eating, drinking, smoking, alcohol, dangerous items, and actions that may harm plants or disturb others are prohibited.
Photography for personal use is permitted without flash, drones, tripods, selfie sticks, or other equipment.
Guests are responsible for their belongings; organizers are not liable for loss, theft, accidents, or disputes.
Limited seating is available along the route for resting.
Important notes
• Confirmation will be received at the time of booking.
• A Viator/TripAdvisor confirmation booking will be sent at the time of confirmation is not the official ticket.
• The service provider will send you a separate email with your actual ticket 24 hours before your travel date. This ticket will be the one recognized by the attraction. If you haven’t received it 24 hours before your visit, please reach out to GLOBALTIX on WhatsApp Message.
About Kyoto
Kyoto, once the imperial capital of Japan, is a city rich in history, culture, and tradition. Known for its numerous classical Buddhist temples, as well as gardens, imperial palaces, Shinto shrines, and traditional wooden houses, Kyoto offers a unique blend of ancient and modern Japan. The city is a must-visit for travelers seeking to experience the heart of Japanese heritage.
Top Attractions
Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion)
A Zen Buddhist temple covered in gold leaf, Kinkaku-ji is one of Kyoto's most iconic landmarks. The temple's top two floors are completely covered in gold leaf, reflecting beautifully on the surrounding pond.
Historical/Religious
1-2 hours
¥400
Fushimi Inari Taisha
Famous for its thousands of vermilion torii gates, Fushimi Inari Taisha is a Shinto shrine dedicated to Inari, the god of rice. The trails leading up the mountain offer stunning views of Kyoto.
Religious
2-4 hours (depending on how far you hike)
Free
Kiyomizu-dera
A historic wooden temple with a large veranda supported by massive wooden pillars, Kiyomizu-dera offers panoramic views of Kyoto. The temple is particularly famous for its spring and autumn foliage.
Religious
1-2 hours
¥400
Arashiyama Bamboo Grove
A stunning grove of bamboo, Arashiyama is one of Kyoto's most famous natural attractions. The towering bamboo stalks create a surreal and peaceful atmosphere.
Nature
1-2 hours
Free (Tenryu-ji Temple costs ¥500)
Gion
Kyoto's most famous geisha district, Gion is known for its traditional wooden machiya houses, teahouses, and the chance to spot geishas and maikos (apprentice geishas).
Cultural
1-2 hours (longer if dining or attending a cultural event)
Free to explore (dining and cultural events can be expensive)
Must-Try Local Dishes
Kaiseki Ryori
A traditional multi-course Japanese meal that emphasizes seasonality and presentation. Each dish is carefully prepared and artfully presented.
Dinner
Often includes fish, meat, and vegetables, but vegetarian options are available.
Yudofu (Tofu Hot Pot)
A Kyoto specialty featuring tofu simmered in a light kombu (kelp) broth, often served with vegetables and condiments.
Lunch/Dinner
Vegetarian-friendly, can be made vegan if broth is vegetable-based.
Matcha Desserts
Kyoto is famous for its high-quality matcha (green tea) powder, used in various desserts like ice cream, parfaits, and wagashi (traditional sweets).
Dessert
Vegetarian and vegan options available.
Obanzai
Home-style Kyoto dishes made with fresh, local ingredients, often featuring vegetables, fish, and tofu.
Lunch/Dinner
Can be adapted to various dietary preferences.
Popular Activities
Hiking in the mountains
Cycling through the countryside
Rafting on the Hozu River
Onsen (hot spring) visits
Tea ceremonies
Scenic walks in gardens and parks
Temple and shrine visits
Traditional tea ceremonies
Best Time to Visit
March to May (Spring), October to November (Autumn)
Spring and autumn offer pleasant weather and are the best times to visit for cherry blossoms and autumn foliage. These seasons also see the highest tourist volumes.
15°C to 25°C (Spring), 10°C to 20°C (Autumn)
59°F to 77°F (Spring), 50°F to 68°F (Autumn)
Practical Information
Language
- Official: Japanese
- Widely spoken: English (limited)
- English: Limited/Rare
Currency
Japanese Yen (JPY)
Time Zone
JST (UTC+9)
Electricity
100VV, 50/60HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Very safe
Kyoto is a very safe city with a low crime rate. Violent crime is rare, and petty crime is uncommon. However, as with any tourist destination, it's important to take basic precautions to protect yourself and your belongings.
Important Precautions:
- • Keep valuables secure and out of sight
- • Be cautious of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas
- • Use reputable tour operators and taxis
Getting there
By air
- Kansai International Airport • 115 km from Kyoto
- Osaka International Airport (Itami) • 40 km from Kyoto
By train
Kyoto Station
By bus
Kyoto Station Bus Terminal
Getting around
Public transport
Buses are the most extensive and affordable way to get around Kyoto. They cover most areas of the city and are especially useful for reaching temples and shrines.
Taxis
Available • Apps: JapanTaxi, INDRIVER
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
Gion
Higashiyama
Arashiyama
Downtown Kyoto (Shijo-Kawaramachi)
Day trips
Nara
40 km from Kyoto • Half day to full day
Nara is a historic city known for its ancient temples, shrines, and the famous Nara Park, home to hundreds of free-roaming deer.
Uji
20 km from Kyoto • Half day
Uji is a small city known for its historic temples, beautiful riverside scenery, and high-quality matcha (green tea).
Kurama and Kibune
25 km from Kyoto • Full day
Kurama and Kibune are two neighboring villages in the mountains north of Kyoto, known for their hot springs, hiking trails, and scenic beauty.
Festivals
Gion Matsuri • July (main events on July 17th and 24th)
Jidai Matsuri • October 22nd
Aoi Matsuri • May 15th
Pro tips
- Visit popular attractions like Fushimi Inari Taisha and Kinkaku-ji early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds.
- Consider purchasing a Kyoto City Bus Pass or other transportation passes to save money on getting around the city.
- Try local specialties like yudofu (tofu hot pot), matcha desserts, and obanzai (home-style Kyoto dishes).
- Explore the city's many temples and shrines, but don't forget to take time to enjoy the natural beauty of Kyoto's gardens and parks.
- Learn a few basic Japanese phrases to enhance your experience and show respect for local customs and traditions.
$9
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
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