Kyoto's 'Sakura Otoyo' Event on April 4th Features Singer Aoi Teshima and Pianist goza; "I hope to sparkle along with the illuminations," says Teshima

The "Heian Jingu Sakura Otoyo" (organized by the Sakura Otoyo Executive Committee, which includes The Kyoto Shimbun) began in 1989 and is cherished as an event that colors Kyoto's spring. In 2026, it will be held for five days from April 1st to April 5th at Heian Jingu Shrine in Sakyo Ward, Kyoto City.

During the event, the Otenmon Gate, Daigokuden Hall, Nanshin-en Garden, and Toshin-en Garden will be specially illuminated at night, with the magnificent shrine buildings and weeping cherry blossoms coloring the spring Kyoto night. Visitors can stroll through the shrine gardens and listen to live music performed by artists by the Seihō Pond in the Toshin-en Garden.

The performers on April 4th will be singer Aoi Teshima and pianist goza. We asked them about their enthusiasm.

Aoi Teshima to Showcase Her Transparent Vocals

Singer Aoi Teshima will be visiting Heian Jingu Shrine for the first time. "I want to see the beautiful Heian Jingu Shrine and the lovely cherry blossoms illuminated as soon as possible. I would be happy if I could sparkle along with the illuminations. It's my first time visiting during cherry blossom season, so just imagining it is exciting," she said, expressing her joy at performing at Sakura Otoyo.

She will be performing with pianist goza. "I'm really looking forward to performing together, and I'm happy to be able to see the cherry blossoms at Heian Jingu with everyone. I'll be waiting with goza," she said, inviting the audience to attend.

She is celebrating her 20th anniversary since her debut with "Therru's Song," an insert song from the Studio Ghibli film "Tales from Earthsea" (2006), in which she also voiced a character. In February of this year, she sang the theme song "Amazing Grace" for the movie "Hodo Naku, Wakare desu." Her unique, transparent singing voice remains unchanged.

goza: Gentle and Colorful Sounds

Pianist goza, who has been a continuous performer at Sakura Otoyo, said, "When I stand on this stage, I always feel a sense of history." At the same time, he feels a great joy in being able to perform.

This time, he will be performing with singer Aoi Teshima. "I am confident that Aoi Teshima's atmosphere and the wonderful night stage will match perfectly. I hope to deliver gentle and colorful piano music that complements that mood," he said, envisioning the performance.

After Sakura Otoyo, he will release his third solo album, "Evolution," in May. He is also planning a solo tour to coincide with the release.

"I am looking forward to sharing a wonderful time with everyone in this magnificent place where history, people, and nature intertwine. I await you with special music that can only be heard here," he said, expressing his enthusiasm.

'Sakura Otoyo' Held for Five Days from April 1st

<img src="https://prcdn.freetls.fastly...