Sendai Pageant of Starlight
A dazzling winter evening light
Every year in December, Sendai battles the bitter cold and darkness of winter with one of japan‘s largest holiday illuminations, aptly named the Sendai Pageant of Starlight. This spectacular event has been held since 1986 and has gained nationwide fame as one of the most dazzling winter illuminations in the country.
How to Get There
To reach the Sendai Pageant of Starlight, you can take the subway or walk from Sendai Station. The illumination takes place on Jozenji-dori Street, between Nishi-koen Park and Kotodai-koen Park. If you choose to take the subway, you can go to Kotodai-koen Station, which is only two stops away from Sendai Station on the Namboku Line towards Izumi-Chuo. The subway ride takes approximately three minutes. Alternatively, if you don’t mind braving the chilly winter winds, you can enjoy a 20-minute walk from Sendai Station to the illumination.
Prepare to be Dazzled and Mesmerized
The Sendai Pageant of Starlight truly lives up to its name. As you stroll down the Tunnel of Illumination, you will be surrounded by hundreds of thousands of lights strung across four rows of towering zelkova trees along Jozenji-dori Street. The sight is truly mesmerizing and will leave you in awe. The combination of the sparkling lights and the occasional light snowfall creates a magical atmosphere that is perfect for the winter season.
The Tunnel of Illumination is the main highlight of the event, but there are also other attractions and activities to enjoy. You can explore the nearby parks, Nishi-koen Park and Kotodai-koen Park, which are beautifully illuminated during the event. These parks provide a serene and peaceful atmosphere where you can relax and take in the beauty of the lights.
In addition to the illuminations, there are also various food stalls and vendors offering delicious treats and souvenirs. You can indulge in some hot cocoa, warm snacks, and traditional Japanese street food while immersing yourself in the festive atmosphere. Don’t forget to check out the event’s official website for the latest information on the food stalls and vendors available during the Sendai Pageant of Starlight.
The Sendai Pageant of Starlight is not just a visual feast, but also a cultural experience. Throughout the event, there are live performances by local artists, musicians, and dancers. These performances showcase the rich cultural heritage of Sendai and add an extra layer of excitement and entertainment to the illuminations.
Tips for Enjoying the Sendai Pageant of Starlight
To make the most of your visit to the Sendai Pageant of Starlight, here are some tips to keep in mind:
1. Dress warmly: The winter weather in Sendai can be quite chilly, so make sure to bundle up in warm clothing and wear comfortable shoes for walking.
2. Plan your visit: The illuminations are best enjoyed after sunset when the lights are at their brightest. Check the event’s official website for the daily schedule and plan your visit accordingly.
3. Capture the moment: Don’t forget to bring your camera or smartphone to capture the stunning beauty of the illuminations. This is an opportunity to take some memorable photos and share them with your friends and family.
4. Explore the surrounding area: Take some time to explore the nearby parks and attractions. The Sendai Pageant of Starlight is held in a central location, making it easy to visit other popular tourist spots in Sendai.
5. Be mindful of COVID-19 precautions: Due to the ongoing pandemic, it is important to follow the guidelines and safety measures implemented by the event organizers. Make sure to wear a mask, practice social distancing, and sanitize your hands regularly.
Recommended for You
If you have more time to explore the Tohoku region, there are other winter illuminations and festivals that you might be interested in. Here are two recommendations:
1. Ashikaga Flower Fantasy: Located in Tochigi Prefecture, the Ashikaga Flower Park hosts a stunning winter illumination featuring millions of LED lights illuminating the park’s beautiful flowers and trees. The park is known for its wisteria flowers, which are transformed into a magical wonderland during the winter season.
2. Sagamiko Illumillion: Situated in Kanagawa Prefecture, Sagamiko Resort Pleasure Forest offers an enchanting winter illumination called Sagamiko Illumillion. The park is transformed into a dazzling world of lights, with various themed displays and interactive light installations.
Both of these illuminations offer a unique and memorable experience that complements the Sendai Pageant of Starlight. If you have the opportunity, consider adding them to your itinerary for a truly magical winter journey in Japan.
Conclusion
The Sendai Pageant of Starlight is a must-visit event for anyone traveling to Japan in December. The dazzling illuminations, the festive atmosphere, and the cultural experiences make it a truly unforgettable experience. Whether you are a solo traveler, a couple, or a family, this winter event offers something for everyone. So bundle up, grab your camera, and get ready to be dazzled by the magical winter evening light of Sendai.
Address And Maps Location:
Jozenji-dori Street, Aoba-ku, Sendai-shi, Miyagi-ken
Subscribe, follow @idbcpr and idbackpacker.com