Kobe Luminarie, the renowned light festival honoring victims of the Great Hanshin Earthquake, celebrated its 30th anniversary with a grand opening on January 24, 2025, under the theme "30 Years of Light, Eternally Shining Hope." This year’s event not only marks three decades since the catastrophic earthquake devastated the region but also stands as a symbol of resilience and recovery for the city of Kobe.
The festival commenced with much anticipation, drawing attendees from across the region, who gathered at various locations, including Higashi Yuenchi Park and Meriken Park. These sites were transformed by spectacular light displays, utilizing approximately 410,000 bulbs to create mesmerizing visuals. The Mayor of Kobe, Kizo Hisamoto, reflected on the significance of this event, stating, "The citizens have felt hope for recovery through the light of Luminarie. This year, with enhanced illumination, I hope many will enjoy it." His words encapsulate the spirit of the festival, serving as both remembrance and celebration of the long path of recovery.
The annual festive event runs until February 2, with the lights illuminating the night sky across Kobe, encouraging both residents and visitors to engage with the city's history and its continual rebirth. This year features special attractions as well—a significant expansion of two main installations: the "Spalliera," which has nearly doubled its width to approximately 78 meters, and the "Galleria," extending 79 meters. These installations are part of the emotional fabric of the festival, making it even more captivating this year.
On the opening night, as bells chimed ceremoniously, the lights premiered at around 6 PM, marking the beginning of ten days filled with enchanting illuminations. Collectively, the beauty of the event serves as a reminder of the lives lost during the quake, drawing reflections and memories from attendees. Kaon Kishi, a 23-year-old employee from Amagasaki, poignantly noted, "Luminarie is not just beautiful lights. It is meaningful for keeping the memories of the earthquake alive, and it should continue forever." This sentiment resonates deeply with many who recognize the festival as more than just an attraction but as part of the community's identity and healing process.
The arrangement and design of this year's displays not only pay tribute to the past but also symbolize hope for the future. Residents flock to the festival, capturing photographs and memories under the elaborate light formations, fostering community spirit and shared remembrance. The extensive preparation and artistic vision behind each display highlight the dedication and effort invested over the years, resulting in this spectacular annual event.
Over the years, Kobe Luminarie has evolved, responding to both technology and audience engagement, including ticketing adjustments made to cope with demand and finance the displays. Initially free to view, parts of the festival have transitioned to include paid access for premium viewing areas. This adjustment allows organizers to improve the quality and scale of the event to accommodate the growing number of visitors, ensuring its longevity and relevance.
The festival has become deeply intertwined with the local culture, instilling pride among residents and providing solace as they reflect on the past. Every shimmering light contributes to the narrative of recovery, uniting the community year after year. It isn’t just about the aesthetics of the festival; it’s about sharing stories—of loss, of rebuilding, and of hope.
By continuing to hold events like Kobe Luminarie, the city is not just acknowledging its tragic past but celebrating its remarkable resilience. Residents and visitors alike immerse themselves not just in the lights but also the spirit of unity and hope, proving once again how beauty can emerge from darkness.
Indeed, as the festival wraps up its 30th iteration, it emerges as both a retrospective and a future-focused gathering—a celebration of past challenges and triumphs, bolstered by the light shining brighter each year. With each bulb lit, the festival continues to weave together the rich story of Kobe, creating bonds among people and reminding everyone of the endurance of hope amid adversity.