Illuminations are a major spectacle across Japan, kicking off in late autumn and running until early spring. One of the best light shows this year is Nagano prefecture’s Matsumoto Illumination around the eponymous city’s stunning castle site. Matsumoto Castle is famous for its unique black exterior, earning it the nickname Crow Castle ('Karasu-jo' in Japanese). The colourful illuminations are especially spectacular, as the illuminated castle reflects off the surface of the moat surrounding the structure, creating an amazing mirror effect.
The free event, which started on December 16 last year, is ongoing until February 14 2024. And it features different light projections synchronised to music.
Over the event period, there are several different shows including the current one running until January 26, featuring images of snow, ice, fireworks and phoenixes. The final show will run from January 27 to February 14. You can check the show themes on the event website.
The light shows take place from 6pm to 9pm daily and last about nine minutes with a three minute intermission in-between. Visit between January 26 and 28 and you’ll be able to catch Matsumoto Castle’s Ice Sculpture Festival featuring intricate ice sculptures that are lit up at night.
For more information, check the event website.
The article was originally published on February 17 2022 and updated on January 24 2024.
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