From Friday 23 October to Saturday 5 December 2026, seasonal food and drink items perfect for enjoying on autumn evenings will be on sale at ‘NAKED meets Nijo Castle 2026’, held at the World Heritage Site, the Former Imperial Palace, Nijo Castle.
Kyoto’s Time-Honoured Culinary Delights at the World Heritage Site, Nijo Castle
Autumn has arrived in Kyoto, marking the start of the autumn foliage season. At ‘NAKED meets Nijo Castle 2026’, held at the World Heritage Site of Nijo Castle, a diverse range of food and drink will be on offer, created by Kyoto’s long-established traditional confectioners, tea shops and sake breweries.
This year marks the 400th anniversary of the ‘Kan’ei Imperial Procession’, when Emperor Go-Mizunoo was welcomed to Nijo Castle. Within the castle grounds, against the backdrop of historic structures such as the Karamon Gate and the Ninomaru Palace, visitors can trace the aesthetic sensibilities that flourished 400 years ago through a series of artistic experiences.
Gathered in the front courtyard of the venue’s kitchen are the flavours of long-established and popular establishments beloved throughout Kyoto. We have prepared a wide-ranging line-up, from traditional Kyoto sweets to tea and sake. Furthermore, set menus combining Fukujuen tea with Kyoto confectionery will be on sale. From sweet treats featuring the flavours of autumn to warm drinks perfect for chilly evenings, and sake crafted by Kyoto’s breweries, the appeal lies in being able to choose according to your preferences.
Explore the historic Nijo Castle whilst appreciating art and savouring the flavours of Kyoto’s long-established establishments. Whether you’re sightseeing in Kyoto this autumn or enjoying an evening out, we invite you to experience a moment unique to Nijo Castle.
Featuring motifs such as the Karamon Gate and period attire from the Kan’ei era. Original Nijo Castle merchandise is also available
Original merchandise for ‘NAKED meets Nijo Castle 2026’ will be on sale at the venue. The range features items incorporating motifs associated with this event, such as the Karamon Gate—a Designated Important Cultural Property—and period attire from the Kan’ei era.
A diverse range of items will be available, including small plates, acrylic magnets and clear bookmarks featuring the Karamon Gate motif, as well as hand towels with traditional Japanese patterns inspired by Gosho dyeing, and acrylic key rings modelled on Kanbun-style kosode. Furthermore, the line-up includes mini pouches and acrylic charms adorned with the Karamon Gate, and a set of event-exclusive stickers—offering a wide selection suitable for everything from everyday use to souvenirs.
NAKED meets Nijo Castle 2026
| Venue: |
Former Imperial Palace, Nijo Castle |
| Dates: |
23 October (Fri) – 5 December (Sat) 2026 |
| Opening hours: |
18:00–22:00 (last admission 21:00) |
*Open every day during the event period (the event will go ahead in the rain, but may be cancelled in the event of severe weather)
*In the unlikely event of cancellation, etc., we will announce this on the official website and official X account.
*The programme is subject to change without notice.
>Official website
>Official X