Mikawa Isshiki Giant Lantern Festival

Giant paper lanterns emit a mystical wavering light

Paper lanterns are a traditional Japanese lighting fixture consisting of a bamboo frame covered with paper and a candle at the bottom.
Suwa Jinja Shrine in Isshiki, Nishio holds its over 450-year-old Mikawa Isshiki Lantern Festival in late August with giant paper lanterns six to ten meters high and designated prefectural tangible folk cultural properties.
Six pairs, totaling 12, of these lanterns depict Japanese myths and historical scenes and flicker with candlelight to create a surreal atmosphere.