Huis Ten Bosch’s bold crossover with Evangelion opened to a large crowd, kicking off a series of commemorative events and an official opening ceremony.The theme park in Sasebo, Nagasaki, marked the launch of "Evangelion the Ride - 8K -" on April 22 with a celebration event.
The program celebrated the park’s transformation of its attractions, nearby facilities and special programming into the Evangelion-themed “Intercept Fortress City Huis Ten Bosch,” created to honor the franchise’s 30th anniversary.
The ceremony began with officials announcing the ride’s official opening and outlining plans for future developments.
Kotaro Takamura, CEO of Huis Ten Bosch, acknowledged the pressure of recreating Evangelion at the park given the series’ devoted global fanbase built over three decades. Still, he expressed confidence that the attraction would move not only long-time fans but also newcomers, calling it a powerful and memorable experience.Takamura also highlighted Huis Ten Bosch’s setting on scenic Ōmura Bay, noting that some segments of the attraction allow visitors to take in both Evangelion’s world and the bay’s natural beauty. He invited guests to enjoy this rare fusion — a special experience unique to Huis Ten Bosch.
He praised the many collaborators, including KARA, and the production team for their meticulous attention to detail in faithfully recreating the series’ universe. He thanked everyone involved and said he hoped Evangelion would deepen visitors’ connection to the park.
Next, singer Yoko Takahashi — renowned for the franchise’s signature songs — took the stage to share memories of Huis Ten Bosch and her excitement about the newly launched Intercept Fortress City.Dressed in a gown inspired by Evangelion Unit-01’s colors, Takahashi recalled visiting the park when it first opened and said she was thrilled to return. She said it was moving and exhilarating to see a series that premiered in October 1995 meet visitors in an entirely new form here at Huis Ten Bosch.
Having previewed the attraction, Takahashi said even those unfamiliar with Evangelion would feel a powerful rush and a lot of fun. She described it as one of the best attractions she’s experienced and urged everyone to see it for themselves.
After the two welcoming remarks, officials declared the start of Intercept Fortress City Huis Ten Bosch and offered attendees early demonstrations of the new attractions.
That evening, a special performance as part of the opening festivities drew strong interest."Shower of Light: HARMONICS WITH EVANGELION" paired classical pieces used in the anime with fireworks, lights and fountains to create an immersive nighttime entertainment spectacle.
Rain forced organizers to cancel a planned live set, but for about 10 minutes the audience still enjoyed a dazzling sequence of music, fireworks, lights and fountains, enhanced by Evangelion-themed visual staging. The crowd cheered at key moments.As an opening-day highlight, Takahashi performed live despite the weather. Backed by two dancers, she delivered stirring performances of “Soul’s Refrain” and “A Cruel Angel’s Thesis,” captivating the audience. The special "Shower of Light" effects and the Dome Tower lit in the colors of Evangelion units elevated the evening and gave fans an unforgettable experience.
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