Yokohama's night view has been updated for just 5 days! Smart Illumination 2015 Report

TEXT: Akiko Inoue PHOTO: Masamasa Nishino 2015.10.31

Speaking of Yokohama's central waterfront area, there are many night view spots such as Zou-no-hana Terrace, Osanbashi, Red Brick Warehouse, and Yamashita Park. ``Smart Illumination Yokohama 2015'' has begun again this year, where the night view of Yokohama that colors the night will be further updated by artists and citizens for 5 days from October 30th (Friday) to November 3rd (Tuesday, holiday).

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

First of all, the Yokohama Customs House, also known as Queen, which has long been a symbol of Yokohama as one of the three towers of Yokohama, suddenly starts talking, and the surreal production and sense of scale are overwhelming. Bye ``The Tower (Queen) Sings''.

Kyota Takahashi “The Tower (Queen) Sings”

What's more, on this day, as part of the opening event, the Zounohana choir, which was assembled through public recruitment, enthusiastically sang ABBA's ``Dancing Queen'' and QUEEN's ``We are the Champions,'' which are named after Queen, along with Queen.

Next up was Asae Soya's rainbow house, which she said was ``inspired by the base that exists in each person's heart.'' The brightly colored balloons give off a gentle glow.

Asae Soya “Rainbow House”

And then there's the ``Illuminator Guideship'', where Junichi Kusaka, also known as the Illuminator, takes you on a boat and guides you through the night view of Yokohama, which is a typical nighttime feature in Yokohama at this time of year. You can enjoy the night view from above the sea for about 20 minutes, and the guides, including Mr. Kusaka, will tell you useful Yokohama sightseeing information. You can take a commemorative photo with the illuminator, which allows you to take a photo with the spectacular scenery unique to Yokohama, or take a photo on the sea, where you can capture all three Yokohama towers in the frame.You can capture precious memories and take them home with you. Also, the first person who answers correctly on the quiz will receive a wonderful gift...! Whether it's your first time in Yokohama or those who are used to it, the night view of Yokohama from the sea is sure to feel refreshing.
(*Fee: 1,000 yen *Mr. Kusaka will board the boat departing at 18:45 on October 30th and at 45 minutes every hour, except for all day on November 3rd.)

Junichi Kusaka “Illuminator Guideship”

In addition, at the Smart Illumination Award, in which 29 groups participated, individuals and organizations that were invited to participate exhibited works that had been tried and tested during this period.

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

There are also plenty of exhibitions of works by companies!

Nakagawa Chemical “Light Doodle”

Don't miss the night view of Yokohama, which is a little different than usual! ! !

For event details, see the list of related events below.
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▼Smart illumination will also be held in areas other than Yokohama

11.6 (Fri) - 7 (Sat) Smart Illumination Midori - Nakayama Phantom Yokocho -
12.5 (Sat) Smart Illumination Izumi
2.13 (Sat) - 14 (Sun) Smart Illumination Kanazawa