Kyoto's 'Sakura Otoyo' Event on April 4th Features Singer Aoi Teshima and Pianist Goza: 'I Hope to Sparkle Along with the Illuminations'

The 'Heian Jingu Sakura Otoyo,' an event that began in 1989 and has become a beloved tradition coloring the spring in Kyoto (organized by the Sakura Otoyo Executive Committee, including the Kyoto Shimbun), will be held for five days from April 1st to April 5th, 2026, at Heian Jingu Shrine in Sakyo-ku, Kyoto.

During the event, the Otenmon Gate, Daigokuden Hall, and the South and East Gardens will be specially illuminated at night, with the magnificent shrine buildings and weeping cherry trees coloring the spring Kyoto night. Visitors can stroll through the gardens and listen to live performances by artists on the banks of the Saho-ike Pond in the East Garden.

The performers for the 4th will be singer Aoi Teshima and pianist Goza. We asked them about their enthusiasm for the event.

Aoi Teshima to Showcase Her Crystal-Clear Singing Voice

Singer Aoi Teshima says this will be her first time visiting Heian Jingu. 'I can't wait to see the beautiful Heian Jingu and the lovely cherry blossoms illuminated. I would be happy if I could sparkle along with the lights. Since this is my first time visiting during the cherry blossom season, just imagining it is exciting,' she said, expressing her joy at performing at Sakura Otoyo.

Regarding her collaboration with pianist Goza, she added, 'I am very much looking forward to working with him, and I am happy to be able to view the cherry blossoms at Heian Jingu with everyone. Goza-san and I are waiting for you.'

Teshima is celebrating the 20th anniversary of her debut with 'Teru's Song,' an insert song from the 2006 Ghibli film 'Tales from Earthsea,' for which she also served as a voice actress. She sings the theme song 'Amazing Grace' for the film 'Hodonaku, Owakare desu,' released this February. Her unique, crystal-clear singing voice remains unchanged.

Goza to Deliver Gentle and Colorful Sounds

Pianist Goza, who has performed at Sakura Otoyo consecutively, says, 'When I stand on this stage, I always feel the weight of history,' adding that it also brings him great joy to be able to perform.

On this occasion, he will be performing with singer Aoi Teshima. 'I am convinced that the atmosphere Aoi Teshima possesses will match this wonderful night stage. I hope to deliver a gentle and colorful piano performance that nestles into that atmosphere,' he said, imagining the stage on the day.

Following Sakura Otoyo, he will release his third solo album, 'Evolution,' in May, and plans to hold a solo tour to coincide with the release.

'I am looking forward to sharing a wonderful time with everyone in this magnificent place woven together by history, people, and nature. I am waiting for you with special music that can only be heard here,' he said, showing his enthusiasm.