Highlights
- Hundreds of thousands of hand-built light bulbs
- Cathedral-like illuminated arches
- A poignant memorial atmosphere
Background & story
Begun in 1995 to mourn the victims of the Great Hanshin Earthquake and to bring hope to Kobe, Luminarie continues as a winter tradition.
Good to know for visitors
- Getting there
- Walk from Sannomiya or Motomachi Stn Open directions in Google Maps ↗
- Booking & entry
- Free to attend — details on the official page (button above).
- Language
- Mostly in Japanese — a translation app on your phone helps.
- Good for
- date night, families, culture seekers
Good to know
Dates and the venue layout have changed in recent years — check the official site, as the event now runs in late January.
Getting there
Central Kobe (Sannomiya/Motomachi) — Chuo Ward, Kobe, Hyogo