Park Update
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After Nearly 200 Years: Tivoli Gardens Unveils the Largest Themed Area in its History
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n the heart of Copenhagen, a major new development is taking shape in Tivoli Gardens. Over the past two years, the area formerly
known as the Asian-inspired district has undergone a complete transformation. This August, it will reopen as Hikari – meaning light in Japanese – an immersive new themed area inspired by the atmosphere of a vibrant Japanese streetscape, interpreted through Tivoli Gardens’ own distinctive creative lens. Covering more than 2,000 square metres (21,500 sq ft), Hikari is the largest themed development ever undertaken by Tivoli Gardens and represents an investment of several hundred million Danish kroner. The new area will feature Japanese-inspired architecture and themed design, street food concepts, original Japanese art, immersive public spaces and two brand-new attractions. The official opening date will be announced shortly. Founded in 1843, Tivoli Gardens is one of
the world’s oldest amusement parks and one of Copenhagen’s most iconic cultural landmarks. Located next to Copenhagen City Hall, the Gardens have welcomed generations of visitors
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with a unique blend of rides, culture, gastronomy, architecture and entertainment. With the opening of Hikari, Tivoli Gardens continues its long tradition of renewal while building on nearly two centuries of history.
A cultural institution investing in the future For generations, Tivoli Gardens has been far more than an amusement park. Since 1843, it has served as a cultural institution where architecture, craftsmanship, heritage and urban life come together in the centre of Copenhagen. Throughout its history, Tivoli Gardens has
inspired artists, writers and creatives from around the world. Fairytale writer Hans Christian Andersen drew inspiration from his first visit to the Gardens in 1843 when writing The Nightingale, while Walt Disney famously was inspired to create Disneyland in California after visiting Tivoli Gardens several times in the 1950s. Today, Tivoli Gardens remains a sensory oasis
and pleasure garden in the heart of Copenhagen, renowned for its concerts, ballet performances,
restaurants, seasonal decorations, rides and spectacular illuminations. As the most visited amusement park in the Nordic region, it welcomes both local residents and international visitors throughout the year.
Interpretation rather than imitation Drawing inspiration from the wider world has always been part of Tivoli Gardens’ DNA. Founder Georg Carstensen built the Gardens on the principle of balancing tradition and renewal, and his famous observation that “Tivoli will never, so to speak, be completed” continues to guide its development. The new themed area Hikari is not intended as
a nostalgic reconstruction of Japan. Instead, it is a contemporary interpretation inspired by Japanese architectural, landscape and urban design principles, reimagined through Tivoli Gardens’ own artistic and theatrical approach. Visitors will encounter a lively streetscape
featuring atmospheric lighting, landscaped gardens, distinctive architecture and immersive
SUMMER 2026
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