The illuminated Togetsu-kyo Bridge emerges during a lighting test (7:10 p.m., December 6, Ukyo Ward, Kyoto)

A test illumination of "Kyoto Arashiyama Hanatouro," or a lighting attraction of Kyoto's winter nights, was held in the Saga-Arashiyama region of Kyoto City on December 6. Passers-by were entranced by the scenery as the Togetsu-kyo Bridge, restored from its typhoon damage, and mountain skirts blurred by rain emerged in the light.

Arashiyama Hanatouro, which is marking its 14th anniversary, is sponsored by a promotion council which includes Kyoto Prefecture, Kyoto City, Kyoto Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Kyoto Buddhist Organization and others. This year's event is occurring over 10 days from December 8 to December 17 with the Togetsu-kyo Bridge, Bamboo Forest Walkways and other places lit up by spotlights and Japanese-style lanterns.

At 6:00 p.m. when the lights were turned on around the Togetsu-kyo Bridge, the mountain skirts tinged with a few lingering autumn leaves emerged brilliantly. As Japanese-style lanterns also lit up the walking path in the bamboo forest, visitors enjoyed a winter stroll prior to the actual event.

The lighting period is from 5:00 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. Surrounding shrines, temples and facilities also have some sponsored events, such as illumination and special exhibitions.