The cold season has arrived.
When you think of winter, you might imagine the sparkling illuminations in the city.
In 2022, the "Kurashiki Kirameki no Michi" event was held around JR Kurashiki Station.
Last year (2021/2021), approximately 150,000 LED lights were used for the "Kurashiki Kirameki no Michi," but in 2022, you can enjoy an even more powerful illumination with about 180,000 lights.
I visited the "Kurashiki Kirameki no Michi," so let me introduce it right away.
What is the "Kurashiki Kirameki no Michi" illumination?
The "Kurashiki Kirameki no Michi" illumination is an illumination event held from November 3, 2022, to February 14, 2023, that imagines a bright future for Kurashiki City.
It is organized by the Kurashiki City Urban Development Promotion Division, co-organized by MITSUI OUTLET PARK Kurashiki and Ario Kurashiki.
The event takes place at the following two locations.
- Achi Terrace Kurashiki
- Kurashiki Mirai Park
At Achi Terrace Kurashiki, the theme is "elegance," while at Kurashiki Mirai Park, the theme is "adventure."
The illumination is lit every day from 5 PM to 11 PM.
Walking from Achi Terrace Kurashiki to Kurashiki Mirai Park
First, let's head to Achi Terrace Kurashiki.
After walking for about 5 minutes from JR Kurashiki Station, a dazzling golden path of light comes into view.
Once you enter the premises, you can enjoy a calm and sophisticated atmosphere, perfectly in line with the theme of elegance at Achi Terrace Kurashiki.
Next, let's pass through the JR Kurashiki Station and head towards Ario Kurashiki, where Kurashiki Mirai Park is located.
The mechanical clock located on the north side of Kurashiki Station was built at the opening of Kurashiki Tivoli Park, which closed in 2008.
It still moves at certain times, so it might be nice to visit at those times.
We have arrived at Kurashiki Mirai Park.
At Kurashiki Mirai Park, you can enjoy two areas: "World of Stars" and "World of Flowers".
There are benches along the paths, making it wonderful to sit back and enjoy the illuminations.
There are also deer in the area.
Some are hiding behind trees, so be sure to look for them as you walk around.
Now, let me introduce each area in detail.
Kiriko Akari Monument │ Achi Terrace Kurashiki
Upon entering Achi Terrace Kurashiki, the first thing that catches your eye is the large Kiriko Akari monument.
The "Kiriko Akari" was conceived by Hiroko Suyama and is based on Kurashiki Kiriko lanterns.
In addition to this large Kiriko Akari, many small Kiriko Akari are installed among the plantings, allowing you to enjoy a blend of traditional and modern worlds.
Further inside, there is a monitor about 4 meters tall.
Images of white tigers and text are displayed, making it very attractive as well.
From December 15 to December 25, a Christmas version of the display will be available for a limited time.
World of Stars │ Kurashiki Mirai Park
In the "World of Stars," there are star-shaped lights and golden light curtains that create a feeling of being in a starry sky.
The blue lights strung along the river flowing through Mirai Park evoke the image of the Milky Way, creating a very fantastical atmosphere.
In the "World of Stars," there is an illuminated observation deck, and the view from there is also excellent.
World of Flowers | Kurashiki Mirai Park
In the "World of Flowers," you can enjoy a flower field illuminated with lights in three colors of roses.
There is also an illumination inspired by wisteria, which is the flower of Kurashiki City, and the wisteria trellis made of light is as beautiful as the real thing.
Flower projection mapping is also being held, and it was seen that small children were delighted.
Depending on the direction you look, the view of the flower field and the wisteria trellis changes, so please try to find your favorite spot.
Conclusion
In the two areas of "Kurashiki Kirameki no Michi," you can enjoy completely different atmospheres and various worlds.
In addition to the illuminations, there are also free hands-on "monozukuri workshops" with bamboo lighting and candles, as well as a "photo contest," making it an event that can be enjoyed by everyone from children to adults.
How about spending a wonderful night with your family, partner, or friends?
2022-2023 'Kurashiki Kirameki no Michi' Illumination Data
| Name | 2022-2023 'Kurashiki Kirameki no Michi' Illumination |
|---|---|
| Dates | November 5, 2022 - February 14, 2023 |
| Location | Achi Terrace Kurashiki, Kurashiki Mirai Park |
| Participation Fee (including tax) | Free |
| Website | 'Kurashiki Kirameki no Michi' Illumination |
