Hikari – Tivoli’s New Japanese-Inspired World

Hikari is Tivoli’s own interpretation of a modern Japanese street, where light, architecture, art, gastronomy and thrilling attractions come together in one immersive experience. The name Hikari, meaning light in Japanese, refers not only to light itself but also to the ideas of clarity, energy and positivity. These qualities form the foundation of Tivoli’s newest destination, where every element has been carefully designed to create one coherent story.

More than simply a new area of Tivoli Gardens, Hikari is a destination in its own right. Guests are invited to explore, pause and immerse themselves in an ever-changing world of sights, flavours and experiences that engage all the senses.

Since opening in 1843, Tivoli Gardens has drawn inspiration from cultures around the world, transforming them into memorable experiences for guests in Copenhagen. The Chinese-inspired Pantomime Theatre, the Pagoda, Nimb and the former Asia area all reflect founder Georg Carstensen’s original vision of bringing the world to Denmark. With Hikari, Tivoli continues that tradition in a contemporary new form.

The former Asia area has been transformed into a cohesive Japanese-inspired district spanning approximately 2,000 square metres. Created in close collaboration with Danish and international specialists in Japanese culture and architecture, Hikari has been carefully designed to capture an authentic sense of place while remaining unmistakably Tivoli.

Authentic Japanese materials have been incorporated throughout the area, including reclaimed doors and windows, vintage architectural elements and more than 60 tonnes of bricks imported from Japan. Carefully designed planting features sculpted pine trees, bamboo, azaleas and a distinctive temple tree, creating the feeling of stepping into another world in the heart of Copenhagen.

Inspired by the vibrant energy of contemporary Japanese cities, Hikari recreates the atmosphere of neon-lit streets, hidden alleyways, bustling food stalls and lively neighbourhoods.

As guests explore the area, they move through atmospheric lanes lined with illuminated rice-paper walls, Japanese-inspired signage and sheltered gathering spaces. Four spacious seating areas, offering a total of 180 covered seats, invite guests to pause and take in the surroundings, while the many carefully crafted details reward those who venture a little further.

Hikari has been designed as a destination in its own right – a place to slow down, explore and linger, rather than simply pass through on the way to the next attraction.

The Demon

The iconic rollercoaster The Demon remains at the heart of the area but has been dramatically reimagined. Its track is now seamlessly integrated into the surrounding environment, weaving through Hikari like an elevated railway beneath the watchful eye of the area’s mythical guardian, inspired by the Japanese maneki-neko – the traditional beckoning cat believed to bring good fortune and ward off evil spirits.

Guests can still look forward to three inversions, sharp turns and exhilarating speed, now enhanced by an even more immersive setting.

Hotel Hikari

Hotel Hikari is the area’s new family attraction – a playful funhouse filled with illusions, surprises and sensory experiences.

The journey begins in the hotel’s elevator before continuing through a series of immersive themed rooms where shifting perspectives, light and sound continually challenge the senses. Along the way, guests encounter tilted hotel rooms, mirror mazes, neon-lit arcade scenes, a vortex tunnel and a spectacular infinity room filled with reflections and light installations.

Hotel Hikari is the only attraction of its kind in Scandinavia.

The Typhoon’s Eye

Hikari’s most exhilarating attraction is The Typhoon’s Eye – a high-intensity ride inspired by the immense power of Japan’s typhoons and the only attraction of its kind in Scandinavia.

As the ride gathers speed, powerful centrifugal forces create the thrilling sensation of weightlessness. The bravest riders can even move freely around the ride while the forces keep them securely against the walls. Outside, spectators can watch the action unfold through the translucent rice-paper-inspired façade.

Comé Rice Kitchen

Comé Rice Kitchen serves contemporary Japanese comfort food centred around rice.

Its signature speciality is handcrafted onigiri filled with a variety of ingredients, complemented by classic side dishes such as karaage and other much-loved Japanese favourites.

Traditional Japanese flavours meet modern craftsmanship and quality.

Yaki-Tak!

At Yaki-Tak!, the cooking is part of the experience.

Food is prepared in front of guests on specially designed grills and teppan stations, where flames, movement and sizzling flavours create a lively atmosphere. The menu features yakitori skewers, yakisoba noodles and a selection of bento combinations.

Kawaii Bites

Kawaii means cute in Japanese – and that playful spirit defines Kawaii Bites.

Guests can indulge in taiyaki ice cream, mochi ice cream and colourful desserts inspired by Japan’s imaginative dessert culture and iconic kawaii aesthetic.

Katsu Kitchen

Katsu Kitchen celebrates Japan’s famously crisp and flavourful fried dishes, serving favourites including karaage, ebi prawns, gyoza and Japanese sandwiches.

Designed for guests on the move, the menu offers delicious dishes that are easy to enjoy while exploring Hikari.

Oishii Bubbles

At Oishii Bubbles, the colourful experience continues with bubble tea, matcha, popping bubbles and imaginative drinks.

Several beverages even change colour as they are enjoyed, making every drink an experience in itself.

Sakura

Sakura is a Japanese-inspired lifestyle store specialising in ceramics, home interiors, Japandi design and carefully selected gifts.

Operated by Sakura Copenhagen, the shop has been created as an immersive retail experience where its materials, interiors and product selection combine to create a calm and inviting atmosphere.

Guests will discover beautifully crafted products chosen for their aesthetics, functionality and craftsmanship – many sourced directly from Japan.

Konbini by UME

Konbini by UME is Tivoli’s interpretation of the traditional Japanese convenience store.

Its shelves are stocked with Japanese snacks, sweets, drinks and an array of charming discoveries from everyday Japanese culture.

Operated by UME, the concept builds on years of experience making authentic, high-quality Asian products more accessible. The result is a colourful and playful shop where guests can quickly pick up a snack, a gift or a memorable souvenir from their visit to Hikari.

Throughout Hikari, art, landscape and architecture have been carefully woven together into one cohesive environment.

One of the area’s artistic highlights is an original work by internationally acclaimed Japanese artist Takashi Murakami. Rather than standing apart, the artwork is seamlessly integrated into the streetscape, where lighting, materials and architecture combine to create a richly layered environment.

The final element is the carefully designed landscape. Sculpted pine trees, bamboo, Japanese azaleas and temple trees soften the urban setting, creating moments of tranquillity that beautifully contrast with Hikari’s vibrant energy.