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Shine on at the Yamaga Lantern Festival

Festivals Summer Festivals Kumamoto Kyushu
Shine on at the Yamaga Lantern Festival

Witness one thousand women dancing with gold and silver lanterns on their head, reenacting an ancient mythical tale.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TT_Aqs5han4

This solemn event is the main feature of the annual Yamaga lantern festival, where these stunning lanterns brighten the night sky along with a stellar firework show. The lanterns, which began in the Muromachi Period (1336-1573) are made using only paper and glue.

The show, held every August 15-16, is based on folklore that locals helped an emperor who got lost in a thick fog. It is said the torchlights guide the monarch to a shrine. Consider letting the bright lights guide you to Kumamoto Prefecture next year!