Name: Kurokawa Onsen Yu Akari Illumination 2026
Start: 2026-12-01T04:42+09:00
End: 2026-03-28T04:42+09:00
Location: Kurokawa Onsen

Last Updated on March 10, 2026

The hot spring town of Kurokawa Onsen in Kumamoto Prefecture is preparing to host its annual Yu Akari illumination, an event that will see the local river landscape transformed by the soft glow of hundreds of bamboo lanterns.

Residents and local craftsmen are set to install these intricate structures throughout the district, placing many of them directly over the flowing waters of the Tanoharu River to create a shimmering reflection against the natural scenery.

Visitors walking through the rustic streets will be able to observe the delicate craftsmanship of the cylindrical and spherical lanterns, which are handmade from local bamboo as part of a conservation effort to manage the region’s groves.

The festival centers around the town’s famous hot spring atmosphere and traditional wooden architecture, providing a nostalgic environment that highlights the seasonal beauty of the Kyushu mountains.

This winter celebration offers a unique glimpse into local ecological practices, as the discarded bamboo is repurposed into charcoal after the event concludes to support sustainable agricultural growth in the area.

Local guides will be available to help guests navigate the illuminated paths and point out the most picturesque viewpoints located near the various public bathhouses and ryokan.

In addition to the light displays, the event features the opportunity for travelers to enjoy the town’s mineral-rich waters through the popular wooden pass system, encouraging a full evening of relaxation within the forest community.

Access to the festivities is available via highway bus from major hubs like Kumamoto City or Fukuoka, making it a convenient destination for those traveling through the central part of the island.