Tivoli in Copenhagen will open its new Japanese-inspired experience area, Hikari, on August 15. The venture covers over 2,000 square meters and is described by Tivoli as the amusement park's largest thematic investment to date.

Hikari replaces the former Asia area and has taken more than five years to develop and two years to build. The investment amounts to a three-digit million sum and includes new rides, Japanese-inspired architecture, gardens, art, shops and street food.

The name Hikari means light in Japanese, and the ambition is to create a vibrant Japanese-inspired street environment in the middle of the classic Copenhagen park.

Two brand new attractions

A central part of the initiative are two new rides that, according to Tivoli, are the only ones of their kind in Scandinavia.

Hotel Hikari will be a new family attraction, while the Eye of the Typhoon will be aimed at visitors looking for more speed and adrenaline.

The existing roller coaster Demonen will also be given a new design and will wind above and through the new area.

Japanese art and five new food concepts

Hikari will also have a distinct cultural touch. Visitors will be able to see works by internationally renowned Japanese artist Takashi Murakami, along with other street art and decor.

Food will become another important part of the area. Five new street food concepts inspired by modern Japanese food culture have been developed together with established players from the Danish restaurant scene.

Tivoli describes Hikari as a combination of tradition and renewal – inspired by Japan, shaped in Copenhagen and rooted in Tivoli.

The initiative has already received international attention ahead of the premiere, including in British media.

Ahead of the public opening on August 15, Tivoli is arranging a special preview for the press on August 12, where the area and the new attractions will be shown for the first time.