Yokohama's night view gets an upgrade for just five days! Smart Illumination 2015 Report

TEXT: Akiko Inoue PHOTO: Masamasa Nishino 2015.10.31

There are many night view spots in the Yokohama waterfront, such as Zou-no-hana Terrace, Osanbashi Pier, the Red Brick Warehouse, Yamashita Park, etc. This year, the "Smart Illumination Yokohama 2015" has kicked off again, where artists and local residents will further upgrade the night view that colors Yokohama's nights for just five days from October 30th (Friday) to November 3rd (Tuesday, national holiday).

By the way, the "smart" in Smart Illumination Yokohama means "energy saving." One of the features of this event is that many companies participate as a showcase for cutting-edge technologies such as LED and solar lighting. We went to Smart Illumination Yokohama 2015 to find out what kind of works will beautifully light up the city of Yokohama this year.

First up is Takahashi Kyota's Building Play "The Tower (Queen) Sings," an overwhelming performance with a surreal production and sense of scale in which Yokohama Customs, also known as the Queen, which has long been a symbol of Yokohama as one of the city's three towers, suddenly begins speaking.

Kyota Takahashi "The Building Play "The Tower (Queen)" Sings"

Furthermore, on this day, as an opening event, the Zounohana Choir, which was formed through public recruitment, enthusiastically sang ABBA's "Dancing Queen" and QUEEN's "We are the Champions," both of which are related to Queen.

Next up was the Rainbow House by Asae Soya, who said it was inspired by the bases that exist in each person's heart. Colorful, vibrant balloons radiate a gentle light.

Asae Soya "Rainbow House"

Another highlight of Yokohama's nightlife at this time of year is the "Illuminator Guideship," where Junichi Kusaka, the illuminator, takes you on a boat to guide you through the Yokohama night view. For about 20 minutes, you can enjoy the night view from the sea, and Kusaka and other guides will give you useful Yokohama tourist information that will be of great use if you know it. You can take commemorative photos with the illuminators against the backdrop of Yokohama's spectacular scenery, and take photos on the sea where you can fit all three Yokohama towers in the frame, creating precious memories to take home with you. The first person to answer a quiz correctly along the way will also receive a wonderful gift! Whether it's your first time in Yokohama or you're already a familiar visitor, the Yokohama night view from the sea is sure to feel fresh.
(※Fee: 1,000 yen ※Mr. Kusaka will be boarding the boat that departs 45 minutes past the hour, except for the 18:45 departure on October 30th and the whole day on November 3rd.)

Junichi Kusaka "Illuminator Guideship"

In addition, 29 groups participated in the Smart Illumination Awards, where individuals and groups submitted works through public entries were able to exhibit works that they had created through trial and error during this period.

Left: Shibaura Institute of Technology, Irikura Laboratory "Colored Town" Right: EP3 Musashino University "Elephant Shower"

There will also be a wide selection of exhibits by companies!

Nakagawa Chemical "Light Scribble"

Don't miss out on this slightly different Yokohama night view!!!