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Joetsu Tourism and Convention Association
HOME > Japan’s Local Treasures > Corridor of Lights in Joetsu City
Warm lights lit in the snow connecting the local community
Niigata Prefecture Tourism Association
Situated in Niigata Prefecture, along the Sea of Japan, Joetsu City receives a lot of snowfall in winter. Every year in February, about 100,000 snow lanterns are lit along the streets of Joetsu for a beautiful illumination event known as the Corridor of Lights. For one night only, the snow-covered city is bathed in warm candlelight, creating a magical atmosphere that highlights Joetsu’s winter season.
The Corridor of Lights started from an idea of Joetsu residents, as a way to celebrate winter and bring together the local community. The event is held jointly in six areas of the city. In the midst of snow, all the residents, from children to the elderly, work together to prepare the snow lanterns and each candle is lit with care. When it gets dark, the snow absorbs the sounds and the quiet streets glowing with thousands of lights are a sight that warms the heart.
Each of the six venues welcomes visitors with elaborate productions and services. Enjoy watching snow statues and playing in a snow igloo, visit a shrine made of snow, and stop by tea shops and stalls to taste hot soba and udon noodles, dumplings, and other local gourmet food. The fireworks set off to the music are also spectacular. Visiting Joetsu during the Corridor of Lights is a memory that will remain with you forever!
How to get there
Yasuzuka Candle Road: From Tokyo Station, take the Shinkansen to Echigo-Yuzawa Station (about 1 hour and 20 minutes), change to a local train to Mushikawaosugi Station (about 50 minutes), then take a taxi to Yasuzuka Candle Road (about 15 minutes).
For the other venues, please visit the official website.
A tour bus to the various venues is also available upon reservation.
Yasuzuka Candle Road: Yasuzuka-ku, Joetsu-shi, Niigata-ken
For other venues, please visit the official website.
