Hikari, the new Japanese-inspired district at Tivoli Gardens, introduces a creative blend of authentic materials and innovative attractions in Copenhagen. This 2,000-square-meter area showcases the park’s largest thematic investment, incorporating sixty tonnes of Japanese brick and an original Takashi Murakami artwork, all nestled around a thrilling rollercoaster.
Since its opening in 1843, Tivoli Gardens has embraced global influences, enriching its local landscape with diverse cultural elements. The Hikari district follows this tradition, aiming to captivate contemporary audiences with immersive experiences, as explained by Susanne Mørch Koch, CEO of Tivoli. “Tivoli can continue to innovate, surprise and put new experiences on the world map,” she states.
Space constraints posed unique challenges. The park’s fixed footprint required the Hikari district to weave through existing structures, utilizing multi-level designs within the limited area. This thoughtful planning is crucial given Tivoli’s central location in Copenhagen, with no room for outward expansion.
Authenticity is at the heart of Hikari’s design. Over 60 tonnes of Japanese bricks, alongside reclaimed doors and windows, and traditional roof tiles from Tsuruya and Eishirou Kawara, were imported — bringing a genuine taste of Japan to the site. These materials provide a real connection to Japanese heritage.
Discover how Shenzhen’s New Museum balances bold architecture with a walkable landscape, similar to Tivoli’s Hikari district.
The streetscape itself is an attraction. With illuminated rice-paper walls and Japanese-inspired signage, Hikari invites guests to linger in its four sheltered gathering areas equipped with 180 covered seats. It’s a place designed for discovery and reflection beyond the rush to rides.
Incorporating existing rides into Hikari’s story, Tivoli’s rollercoaster, The Demon, now features a mythos inspired by maneki-neko, the beckoning cat. New rides like Hotel Hikari funhouse and The Typhoon’s Eye add layers of excitement, reflecting Japanese storm systems and surreal tilt-room experiences.
Food is an integral part of Hikari’s narrative. Visitors can enjoy Japanese street food offerings such as onigiri and karaage at Comé Rice Kitchen, and tableside grilling at Yaki-Tak! These complement the aesthetic design of the district alongside shops like Sakura and Konbini by UME, which offer ceramics and Japandi homeware.
Art also plays a key role. A Takashi Murakami piece is woven into Hikari’s design, similar to the immersive approach seen in his collaboration with Louis Vuitton in Soho. The district’s environment, featuring sculpted pine and bamboo, completes the immersive experience.
The meticulous melding of Danish and Japanese design is a testament to Tivoli’s dedication to authenticity. According to Rasmus Altenborg, Tivoli’s design and development director, the inspiration journey to Japan shaped every detail, echoing the holistic approaches seen at Matsuri Marseille. Hikari invites visitors not to believe they’ve left Copenhagen, but to witness how seamlessly Japan has been integrated within it.
For more on integrating cultural architecture, explore Montreal’s Olympic Stadium, where history meets modern engineering.
Source: urdesignmag.com
Frequently asked questions
What is the new district at Tivoli Gardens called?
The new Japanese-inspired district at Tivoli Gardens is called Hikari.
How does Hikari incorporate Japanese materials?
Hikari incorporates over 60 tonnes of Japanese bricks, reclaimed doors and windows, and traditional roof tiles from Tsuruya and Eishirou Kawara to provide a genuine taste of Japan.
What role does art play in Hikari’s design?
Art plays a key role in Hikari’s design, with a Takashi Murakami piece woven into the environment, adding to the district’s immersive experience.