Photo= Kyoto Illumiere, in which a million LEDs create a fantastical sea of lights (Rurikei Onsen hot springs, Okawachi, Sonobe-cho, Nantan City, Kyoto Prefecture)

The lighting ceremony for "Kyoto Illumiere," one of the largest illumination events in Kyoto Prefecture, was held on October 28 at the event site, Rurikei Onsen hot spring in Okawachi, Sonobe-cho, Nantan City, Kyoto Prefecture, prior to its public opening on October 29. A fantastical world was created in nature, including a show where an aurora was reproduced using a laser shining on smoke.

The illumination event is a project that takes advantage of the high plateau location, contrasting clear night skies with shining lights. This year marks its fifth anniversary. One million light-emitting diodes, or LEDs, have been installed within an approximately 10,000 square-meter area, surrounded by trees to create a space of light.

This year there is an illumination incorporating traditional Japanese materials, such as Japanese-style umbrellas, bamboo lanterns and so on, as well as a huge arch and trees. For the first time in Japan, the latest machine from Europe has been installed for the Aurora show, held four times a day, in which a colorful curtain of light is projected against the night sky.

The illumination will continue until April 9 next year and is held from 4:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. Fees are 1,000 yen for an adult and 500 yen for a child. The secretariat can be contacted at 050-3786-3863.