Nara Tokae

Looking back at my old posts, I could’ve sworn I made a post about Nara’s summer festival called Tokae, but I couldn’t find it. Maybe I just mentioned it in a post about another topic. In any case, I figured I’d make a short post dedicated solely to Tokae.

Tokae is a candle festival in the Nara Park area that takes place every summer in August during Obon season. Thousands of candles are lit around the park illuminating paths and temples. It’s all sponsored by donations. It’s really pretty and romantic. The first time I ever went was with my female coworker. It was nice, but I kept thinking how much nicer it would be to go with a boyfriend or girlfriend. Many people dress up and go in yukata, but it’s not necessary if you aren’t into that sort of thing.

This year I was able to go with my boyfriend, and it definitely was nice. We got dinner first and then spent a while walking around looking at all the lights. It was hot, and there were a lot of people, but it’s a fun and free way to spend time, and I think the beauty of it is worth seeing a least once.