Held in Kyoto: 'Sakura Otayo' on Sunday, April 5th featuring vocal group REAL TRAUM sharing their desire to 'carefully weave a special time where sound and light blend together'

Started in 1989 (Heisei 1), 'Heian Jingu Sakura Otayo' (organized by the Sakura Otayo Executive Committee, comprising the Kyoto Shimbun and others), widely loved as an event that colors spring in Kyoto, will be held for five days from April 1 to 5, 2026, at Heian Jingu Shrine in Sakyo-ku, Kyoto.

During this period, the Oten-mon Gate, Daigoku-den Hall, South Shin-en, and East Shin-en will be specially illuminated at night, and the magnificent shrine pavilions and red weeping cherry blossoms will color the spring night in Kyoto. While strolling through the gardens, visitors can listen to live music performed by artists by the Seiho Pond in the East Shin-en.

Performing on the 5th is the vocal group REAL TRAUM. We asked the four members about their enthusiasm.

## Kenichiro Takashima: Singing a New Repertoire

REAL TRAUM is a vocal unit consisting of four male vocalists who graduated from the Tokyo University of the Arts. Tenor Kenichiro Takashima says, 'I have a special feeling about being able to sing in a place where you can feel Japanese history. It is also a good opportunity for me to re-ask myself the significance of performing Western classical music as a Japanese person.'

Having studied abroad in Vienna and played leading roles in theaters in various places, Takashima finds similarities with Kyoto. 'The history as an ancient capital, the atmosphere of the city, and the special charm of the spring season might be common points.'

At Sakura Otayo, he plans to sing a new repertoire different from last year's. 'I myself am looking forward to seeing how the audience will feel the music performed in a special place, different from regular concert halls or live houses,' he says.

## Keisuke Sugiura: Carrying Elation and Wistfulness

For tenor Keisuke Sugiura, born in April, spring has always been a special season.

'Cherry blossoms are flowers that symbolize encounters, farewells, and new beginnings. I hope to deliver the sense of elation unique to spring and a slightly wistful feeling carried on the sound,' he shares his enthusiasm.

He says Heian Jingu is a special place. 'Delivering sound in a historic space and the soft spring air is a very luxurious time. I want to enjoy performing myself while being pushed forward by the power the place holds.'

Kyoto, which he visits often now, is a city where just walking around calms his mind, and it is a place he loves very much.

'A spring night enveloped in cherry blossoms and music. I am looking forward to sharing the same time with everyone. Please come and visit us with a relaxed feeling.'

## Yuma Sakai: A Place That Makes You Feel Special