“Kurashiki Shunsho Akari” has become a springtime tradition in Kurashiki. More and more people look forward to this event, which bathes the spring nights of the Bikan Historical Area in traditional Japanese light. The townscape takes on a completely different look from daytime, and the event is a perfect fit for its calm nighttime atmosphere. During the event, the area bustles with families, friends, couples, and people walking their dogs.
The 17th edition this year (2024) also seems to have some new features. We take a closer look at what makes it special, including a look back at last year and interviews with the organizers.
The information presented here was current when this article was published in March 2024. Please note that it may differ from current information.
What is Kurashiki Shunsho Akari?
Started in 2006, Kurashiki Shunsho Akari is a charming event that bathes the nighttime streetscape around the Kurashiki River in the Bikan Historical Area in traditional Japanese light. Unlike flashy illuminations, the gentle, soft glow of traditional Japanese lights soothes the hearts of those who see it.
The most popular lights are the “Japanese Umbrella Lights” arranged along the Kurashiki River. When people hear Kurashiki Shunsho Akari, most probably picture these lights first. In recent years, they have been displayed in a long row along the riverside walkway, allowing visitors to take photos without blocking the path.
Some lights are illuminated every day during the event, while others appear only on designated dates. If there is a particular display you absolutely want to see, check the website or flyer to make sure it will be there.
The 16th edition (2023)
Here’s a look back at the 2023 event. Kurashiki Shunsho Akari features some of the same lights each year, but new ones also appear, making it an event to enjoy year after year.
Indigo Umbrella Lights
“Indigo Umbrella Lights” made their debut in 2023. They were displayed at Kurashiki SOLA, a multipurpose complex. They are deliberately raised off the ground because visitors are encouraged to take photos with the Japanese umbrellas. You can take photos standing up without having to crouch.
The Indigo Umbrella Lights look different from the side and from the front. Their patterns also differ, so for photography enthusiasts, part of the fun is deciding which angle and location will make them look most beautiful. Find your favorite composition.
These indigo Japanese umbrellas are a fitting tribute to Kurashiki City, the birthplace of domestically produced jeans. In 2024, they will again be displayed at Kurashiki SOLA’s Mingei Plaza, as they were last time.
Kiriko Lights
“Kiriko Lights,” created by Kurashiki Kosakusho, are displayed every year at Kurashiki City Kurashiki Monogatari-kan. Each one is handmade, intricately crafted, and beautiful. A fantastical world unfolds before you.
No two are alike in their patterns, colors, or sizes. When viewing the Kiriko Lights, be sure to look down at the ground, too. They are carefully designed so that their patterns of light are also projected onto the ground.
A fantastical world emerges from the darkness. It has a mysterious charm that makes you want to gaze at it forever.
The designs change every year, and apparently even change little by little during the event. You may discover something new each time you visit.
Highlights of the 17th edition (2024)
Kurashiki Shunsho Akari features 11 types of lights and events.
Each is a beautiful traditional Japanese light that stands out against the townscape.
In addition to the main displays, there are seven partner events, so why not enjoy those as well?
We’ve picked out three noteworthy lights and events.
Shunsho Balloons
“Shunsho Balloons” are a new light display debuting in 2024. These hanging lights are shaped like Japanese-style balloons and feature traditional patterns. They are scheduled to be displayed along the walkways and in the courtyard of Kurashiki Ivy Square.
Unlike lights placed on the ground, these can be viewed from below and admired from every angle. We’re looking forward to seeing what they look like.
Shunsho Cafe
“Shunsho Cafe,” one of the partner events, is making its debut in 2024. A kitchen trailer will set up in the courtyard of Kurashiki Ivy Square, serving Cuban sandwiches, burdock soup, original cocktails, soft drinks, and more.
Enjoy Japanese-style lights while savoring food and drinks. It looks like a new way to enjoy Kurashiki Shunsho Akari is about to be born.
Instagram Campaign
You can have a great time simply admiring the Japanese-style lights, but if you enjoy taking photos, why not enter the Instagram campaign? Those who post captivating photos will be entered into a drawing to win prizes.
▼ How to enter
- Photograph scenes from Kurashiki Shunsho Akari
- Follow the official account (@kurashiki_tabi)
- Post photos of Kurashiki Shunsho Akari with “#KurashikiShunshoAkari2024”
It’s easy to enter. Give it a try. The campaign runs from March 9 (Sat) to 31 (Sun).
▼ Prizes
- Pair accommodation voucher for a stay in Kurashiki City + original Kurashiki Shunsho Akari masking tape…1 winner
- 10,000-yen dining voucher for Kurashiki City + original Kurashiki Shunsho Akari masking tape…2 winners
- Original Kurashiki Shunsho Akari masking tape…50 winners
In 2024, Kurashiki Shunsho Akari celebrates its 17th year and has become a popular event in Kurashiki. New lights appear each time, delighting visitors.
We spoke with Uebayashi Shigeki, of the organizing Kurashiki Shunsho Akari Executive Committee.
We want you to fully enjoy the event
What are the highlights this year (2024)?
Uebayashi (honorific omitted)
The highlight is the new Spring Evening Balloons. We discuss what kinds of lights to prepare next, taking into account visitors’ reactions the previous year. This time, we have prepared Spring Evening Balloons featuring Japanese patterns to match the image of Japanese-style lights.
The Spring Evening Cafe, held at Kurashiki Ivy Square as a partner event, is also new. There will be alcohol, so I think adults will enjoy it too. You can enjoy Japanese-style lights alongside gourmet food.
Another new addition is Inoue House as a venue for the shadow-play lights. The shadow-play lights project images onto windows for visitors to enjoy as a story. The story changes every year.
We want you to enjoy taking photos
The event dates have changed from last time (2023). Is there a particular reason?
Uebayashi
Last year (2023), it was held from February 18 to March 12, but it overlapped with other events. This year, events such as Lunch, Let’s Eat and the Kurashiki Hina Doll Tour are also being held during last year’s event period. We shifted the dates back a little because we want people to focus on and enjoy Kurashiki Shunsho Akari.
By shifting the dates, the event now overlaps with spring break, and we think the warmer weather will make it more comfortable to spend time outdoors at night.
There are new lights, but the classic Japanese umbrella lights are also impressive. The sight of 100 Japanese umbrellas lined up along the Kurashiki River is spectacular.
Kurashiki Shunsho Akari is perfect for taking photos. Last year, more than 1,000 posts were shared. We’re also holding an Instagram photo-posting campaign this time, so we hope you’ll take lots of photos and enter.
With the COVID-19 situation having settled down, we expect many visitors this year. If you’d like to take your time admiring the lights, weekdays are relatively quiet, so we recommend visiting then.
From the Writer
Kurashiki Shunsho Akari has become a spring tradition in Kurashiki. As someone who loves photography, it’s one of the events I look forward to. According to Uebayashi, the number of people enjoying photography has been increasing year by year. It’s an event you can enjoy not only by viewing the lights, but also by taking photos.
During the event, some of the lights are illuminated every day until 9 p.m. You might enjoy stopping by to see them after work. If you want to see all the main lights at once, visit on March 16 (Sat).
Why not head to the Bikan Historical Area to enjoy the soothing Japanese-style lights?
17th Kurashiki Shunsho Akari: Event Information
| Name | 17th Kurashiki Shunsho Akari |
|---|---|
| Dates | March 9 (Sat)–31 (Sun), 2024 5:30 p.m.–9:00 p.m. Held rain or shine in light rain |
| Location | Bikan Historical Area |
| Admission (tax included) | Free |
| Website | 17th Kurashiki Shunsho Akari |
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