Downtown Kobe, Japan

A tradition in Kobe becomes energy efficient

The tradition of ‘Kobe Luminaire’ in Kobe (Japan) has become energy efficient with the use of light-emitting diodes that consume less electricity.

Kobe Luminaire is an annual festival held on 16 January, marking the Great Hanshin-Awaji Earthquake that occurred on the early morning of 17 Janaury 1995 and claimed more than 6,400 lives. Kobe Luminaire has been held every year since then to wish for the repose of the souls of the quake victims, and expressing hope for the city’s restoration and renaissance. Each of the tiny glitters from the illumination represents the life of each quake victim, and hope for survivors.

Kobe is one of 21 local governments in Japan that are Members of ICLEI – Local Governments for Sustainability. For more information on ICLEI and its activities in Japan, please visit www.iclei.org/japan.

Source: “Kansai in focus: Praying under decorative illumination”, Kippo News, 10 January 2007.