Established in 1995 to commemorate the memory of the Great Hanshin-Awaji Earthquake and symbolize hope for Kobe, the Kobe Luminarie has become a cherished annual event. The upcoming 30th edition is themed “30 years of light, hope shining forever” with its start slated for January 24, 2025 across three venues: Higashi Yuenchi Park, the Former Foreign Settlement, and Meriken Park.
Make your way to Higashi Yuenchi Park to find the “Spalliera” light installation in the southwestern part of the lawn. Another grand installation, standing about 7.7 meters tall and 21 meters wide, is scheduled for the southern grounds. The Former Foreign Settlement a number of different exhibits, including a lighted signboard in front of the Sumitomo Mitsui Banking Corporation Kobe Headquarters and Luminarie structures ranging from 3 to 8 meters in height, placed throughout the area to enhance walkability and manage crowd flow.
Meriken Park, a recent addition, is where you’ll find a 79-meter light corridor along the southeastern greenway, with a grand entrance piece, "Frontone," measuring 51 meters wide. This particular spot is a paid area with time-specific capacity limits so you can make your way though at your own pace. There’s even a free, separate area marked by sponsored logos where you’ll find a full lineup of food trucks.
Highlights
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The Kobe Luminarie is an illumination event symbolizing the hope of Kobe.
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Held across three venues: Higashi Yuenchi Park, Former Foreign Settlement, and Meriken Park.
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Artworks are thoughtfully displayed at each venue to increase walkability and avoid overcrowding.
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Meriken Park features a ticketed area with time-slot entry.