Under the autumn night sky, 30,000 bamboo lanterns gently illuminate Kokura Castle. The fantastical scene woven by the historic castle and the bamboo lights invites visitors into a mystical world. This time, we will introduce you to the charm of “Kokura Castle Bamboo Lights,” an autumn tradition in Kitakyushu.
Light Art Born from the Abandoned Bamboo Forest Problem
While Kitakyushu City has abundant bamboo forest resources, it has also been troubled by the problem of abandoned bamboo forests. “Kokura Castle Bamboo Lights” was born in 2019 at the hands of local craftsmen and volunteers to help solve this problem. The initiative to breathe new life into felled bamboo and transform it into beautiful light art is also linked to regional revitalization.
Highlight: Bamboo Lanterns that Invite You into a Mystical World
Each of the 30,000 bamboo lanterns installed around Kokura Castle is carved with a different pattern and emits a soft light. The shadows cast by the lights on the ground and walls flicker as if they were alive, creating a fantastical atmosphere. In particular, the sight of the castle tower, bamboo lanterns, and city lights interwoven is breathtakingly beautiful.
Experience: Bamboo Lantern Making and History Lectures
During the event period, workshops on making bamboo lanterns and lectures on local history and culture will also be held. The experience of actually touching bamboo and lighting the lights can be enjoyed by both children and adults. You can also gain a deeper understanding of the connection between Kokura Castle and the region through history lectures.
Event: Music Live and Performances
The appeal of “Kokura Castle Bamboo Lights” is that you can enjoy it not only visually but also aurally. Music lives and performances by local artists will further enliven the autumn night. Let’s enjoy this special space using all five senses.
Basic Information
Item Content
| Item | Content |
|---|---|
| Name | Kokura Castle Bamboo Lights |
| Location | Kitakyushu City, Fukuoka Prefecture |
| Access | 15 minutes walk from JR Kokura Station, 10 minutes walk from JR Nishi-Kokura Station |
| Dates | Late October to early November |
| Hours | 17:30 to 21:00 |
| Fee | Admission fee 500 yen (junior high school students and above / elementary school students and below free) |
| Address | 2-1 Kokurakita Ward, Kitakyushu City, Fukuoka Prefecture |
| Inquiries | 070-8376-7103 (Kokura Castle Bamboo Lights Executive Committee) |
| Official Website | https://kokurajotakeakari.com/ |
Summary
“Kokura Castle Bamboo Lights” is a fantastical autumn event interwoven with beautiful bamboo lanterns and a historic castle. Born from solving regional issues, this event gives visitors excitement and comfort, and provides a valuable cultural experience that will continue into the future. Please step into the mystical world of Kokura Castle on a long autumn night.