On the 26th, the “Kihoku Lantern Festival,” which illuminates the summer night sky, was held in Kihoku Town, Mie Prefecture.
The “Kihoku Lantern Festival” is a major summer event in the fishing town of Kihoku, featuring a spectacular collaboration of massive lanterns and vibrant fireworks.
This year marks the 20th anniversary of Kihoku Town’s founding and the 30th anniversary of its sister-city partnership with Shijonawate City, Osaka Prefecture.
A giant lantern (5.3 meters tall and 9 meters long), depicting the towns’ mascots “Ki-hokun” and “Kussun” fishing together on a boat, was displayed. Along with around 3,000 fireworks starting after 7:30 PM, it energized the festival grounds.
Kihoku Lantern Festival
The **Kihoku Lantern Festival** is an annual event held in Kihoku Town, Ehime Prefecture, Japan, celebrating tradition and community spirit. The festival features hundreds of beautifully illuminated lanterns, creating a magical nighttime atmosphere. Its origins are tied to local customs of honoring ancestors and bringing people together through light and cultural performances.
Kihoku Town
Kihoku Town is a small, scenic municipality located in Ehime Prefecture, Japan, known for its lush forests, rivers, and traditional rural charm. Historically, it was part of the Uwa District and developed around agriculture and forestry, with cultural ties to the Shikoku Pilgrimage route. Today, it attracts visitors with its natural beauty, hot springs, and outdoor activities like hiking and fishing.
Mie Prefecture
Mie Prefecture, located in the Kansai region of Japan, is known for its rich history, stunning natural landscapes, and deep cultural roots. It is home to the revered Ise Grand Shrine (Ise Jingu), one of Shinto’s most sacred sites, which dates back over 2,000 years. The prefecture also boasts scenic attractions like the Kumano Kodo pilgrimage routes and delicious regional cuisine, including Ise udon and Matsusaka beef.
Shijonawate City
Shijonawate City, located in Osaka Prefecture, Japan, is known for its rich historical heritage and connection to the legendary 14th-century warrior Kusunoki Masashige, a symbol of loyalty in Japanese culture. The city features historical sites like the Shijonawate Guchi, a key battlefield during the Nanboku-cho period, and the Kusunoki Masashige Shrine, dedicated to his memory. Today, it blends its historical significance with modern suburban life, offering cultural festivals and green spaces for residents and visitors.
Osaka Prefecture
Osaka Prefecture, located in Japan’s Kansai region, is a vibrant area known for its rich history, modern cities, and cultural landmarks. It was once the economic and political heart of Japan during the Edo period (1603–1868) and is home to historic sites like Osaka Castle, built in the 16th century by Toyotomi Hideyoshi. Today, Osaka is famed for its dynamic food scene, bustling districts like Dotonbori, and attractions such as Universal Studios Japan.
Ki-hokun
There is no widely recognized cultural or historical site known as “Ki-hokun.” It may be a misspelling or a lesser-known location. If you meant a specific place, please provide additional details or clarify the name for an accurate summary.
Kussun
There is limited widely known information available about a place or cultural site called “Kussun.” If you are referring to a specific location, it may be a lesser-known or local site, or the name might be misspelled. Could you provide additional details or clarify if you mean a different name, such as “Kushan” (related to the ancient empire in Central Asia) or another term? This will help in providing an accurate summary.
