Every year-end, bright and dazzling lights illuminate the streets of Japan. Specifically, this colorful event has earned the term “Winter Illumination”. Winter Illumination is a yearly Japanese tradition of colorful and festive shows that gained popular interest across Japan. One of the most famous winter illumination is the Mido-Suji Illumination, which stretches from Yodoyabashi to Shinbashi.
Mido-suji is a four-kilometer grandeur of light decorations in buildings, facilities, and street trees. In particular, it is one of the longest of its kind in Japan. Additionally, in 2014, Mido-suji achieved the world record as the street with the highest number of light decorations. You can enjoy an evening stroll in this winter illumination from November 11 to December 31, 2017.
Despite a short range of time, there is actually a lot of events in Mido-suji that will surely satisfy the inner artist in you. And by all means, let us take a glance at a few Light Art Tours that lights up the holidays in Osaka:
The Opening Ceremony
A one-night only event, the streets of Osaka is free of cars and transportation as the Mido-suji Illumination 2017 opens its way to the thousand spectators. Lest, you can enjoy the illuminated streets without the obstructions of any transportation. However, the ceremony only lasts for one night, so make sure to enjoy the view while it lasts!
Period:
November 12
Location:
Mido-suji Ave. from Kyutaromachi intersection to Shinbashi intersection
VR Midosuji
If there is another way of enjoying the bright lights in Mido-suji, it is definitely through the VR Midosuji experience. It offers a 360 degrees bird’s eye view and a tour around the dazzling white square. Surely, the place brings you to an enchanting world.
Period:
November 12 – December 31
Location:
Meiji Yasuda Life Insurance Company Osaka Mido-suji Building
Building facade relay projection
The facade of the building changes daily to portray different photo artworks of multiple talented photographers and artists. Certainly, it is a sight to behold.
Period:
November 12 – December 31
Location:
Japan Nipponkoa Osaka Building
Kitamido Light Transformation
Dance your heart out in front of a dynamic light up space to see the magic of an interactive art. Specifically, the light in the box changes as you move around. This particular creative work is done by Shiho Nagamachi. Additionally, the music is as good as the experience itself, which makes one surely enjoy the moment.
Period:
November 12 – December 29
Location:
Honganji temple Tsumura complex(Kitamido)
Mido-suji Awaits you!
To summarize, the four-kilometer magical view is a sight you should not miss when you visit Osaka. Although it only happens during the holidays, the month-long event gives you ample time to enjoy all activities and gaze at the illuminated streets of Mido-suji.