The "Kurashiki Spring Night Lights" event, now in its 16th year, is being held in 2023.
It has firmly established itself as a spring night event in the local area.
This event, where various lights illuminate the Bikan Historical Area in Kurashiki, is full of charm.
In the 16th edition, new lights and areas will be expanded.
Let's introduce the highlights along with an interview with the organizers.
What is Kurashiki Spring Night Lights?
Kurashiki Spring Night Lights is an event that illuminates the Bikan Historical Area with various traditional Japanese lights.
Celebrating its 16th year in 2023, it is cherished as a way to enjoy the spring nights in Kurashiki.
Every year, new lights are introduced, but if we had to mention a classic, it would be the wagasa lights.
A row of wagasa in different colors and patterns, such as red and purple, creates a stunning display of lights.
The lights include those that are lit every day and those that appear for a limited time.
After the outbreak of COVID-19, to disperse crowds, the event was adjusted to light up every day instead of concentrating on weekends.
There were years when the event had to be canceled, but it seems to be gradually returning to a "normal" style.
Now, let's introduce the highlights from the previous 2022 event and this year's attractions.
Overview of the 15th Edition (2022)
Here are some highlights from the 15th Kurashiki Spring Night Lights.
Wagasa Lights
The classic wagasa lights are always impressive, no matter how many times you see them.
To avoid congestion, they were set up on both sides of the dog run.
Previously, they were only displayed in front of Yurin-so Villa, but the installation area has expanded, adding to their charm.
Finding the most beautiful angle to view them has become a new enjoyment.
Kiriko Lights
Kiriko lights are traditional lights produced by Kurashiki Kousakusho.
With various shapes, intricate patterns, and gentle illumination, they delight viewers.
During the 15th event, they were themed around "the arrival of spring" and "Japan Heritage of Kurashiki."
If you look closely, you can find patterns inspired by Kurashiki scattered throughout.
To ensure enjoyment every time, the lights displayed change daily.
Highlights of the 16th Edition (2023)
The 16th Kurashiki Spring Night Lights will feature wagasa lights and kiriko lights as well.
This time, let's introduce the highlights focusing on the new areas and lights.
Kurashiki SOLA
Kurashiki SOLA is a complex facility that opened in the Bikan Historical Area in 2022.
It houses restaurants and MARUGO KURASHIKI, with buildings surrounding the Mingei Plaza.
In the new lighting area of Kurashiki SOLA, three lights will be featured: "Indigo Umbrella Lights," "Indigo Snow Cave," and "Indigo Pouch Lights."
True to its origin as the birthplace of Japanese jeans, the lights use indigo.
Among them, the Indigo Umbrella Lights seem to have a unique display method, as they are hung vertically to create height instead of being placed on the ground.
The aim is to encourage people to take photos with the lights.
When they are tall, it becomes easier to take photos with the lights.
Since they are displayed during the day as well, it seems you can enjoy a different view than at night.
Kurashiki Ivy Square
Kurashiki Ivy Square will feature three lights: "Takeball Lights," "Spring Night Andon," and "Hanging Umbrella Lights."
Of the three, the Takeball Lights and Hanging Umbrella Lights are new.
The Takeball Lights are made of bamboo, as the name suggests, with lights placed inside.
Since they are displayed hanging from trees, similar to the Indigo Umbrella Lights, you can also take photos with them.
The Hanging Umbrella Lights are a series of traditional umbrellas hung from above.
Depending on whether you get close, look from directly below, or view from a distance, the appearance will change.
Instagram Campaign
During the event period, an Instagram photo submission campaign will be held.
There will be prizes drawn from participants.
▼Details of the Instagram photo submission campaign and prizes are as follows.
- A pair of accommodation vouchers usable in Kurashiki City and original masking tape from Kurashiki Spring Night Lights…1 winner
- A meal voucher worth 10,000 yen usable in Kurashiki City and original masking tape from Kurashiki Spring Night Lights…2 winners
- Original masking tape from Kurashiki Spring Night Lights…50 winners
▼The application method consists of 3 steps.
Official Website
- Take a photo of the scenery of "Kurashiki Spring Night Lights"
- Follow the official Instagram account of Kurashiki City Tourism, "Kurashiki Travel Club" (@kurashiki_tabi)
- Post a photo of "Kurashiki Spring Night Lights" with the hashtag Kurashiki Spring Night Lights 2023 (#KurashikiSpringNightLights2023)
*The campaign period is from February 18 (Saturday) to March 12 (Sunday)
*Private accounts are not eligible for the drawing
If you're going to visit, why not participate in the campaign?
An event that colors the spring nights in Kurashiki, Kurashiki Spring Night Lights.
I spoke with Maeoka Michinobu from the Kurashiki Haruyoi Akari Executive Committee and Ikeda Miko.
Data for the 16th Kurashiki Haruyoi Akari
| Name | 16th Kurashiki Haruyoi Akari |
|---|---|
| Date | February 18, 2023 (Saturday) to March 12, 2023 (Sunday) Lighting from 5:30 PM to 9:00 PM |
| Location | Bikan Historical Area |
| Participation Fee (including tax) | Free |
| Website | 16th Kurashiki Haruyoi Akari |
