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Guide to the Aizu Painted Candle Festival

Every year, on the second Friday and Saturday of February, the city of Aizuwakamatsu in Fukushima puts on a dazzling display of flickering lights and artisanal craftsmanship. The Aizu Painted Candle Festival celebrates the century-old tradition of hand-painted candle making, illuminating the grounds of Tsuruga Castle and Oyaku Garden with thousands of intricately decorated candles that tell stories of the region’s rich history.

Event

Aizu Painted Candle Festival

Dates

February 7–8, 2025

Location

Aizuwakamatsu, Fukushima Prefecture

Entrance fee

Free

 

How to get there

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From Tokyo Station, take the Tohoku Shinkansen to Koriyama Station, then transfer to the Ban-Etsu West Line for Aizu-Wakamatsu Station. From there, local buses run regularly to Tsuruga Castle and Oyaku Garden. The entire trip should take about three hours.

 

The art of painted candles

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At the heart of this winter celebration lies the unique craft of Aizu’s painted candles. These aren’t just any ordinary candles; each one is a miniature work of art, hand-painted with delicate designs such as chrysanthemums and plum blossoms using traditional techniques passed down through generations. The candles are made from natural wax extracted from the fruits of lacquer trees, with local artisans carefully applying layers of natural pigments to create intricate patterns and motifs that seem to dance in the candlelight.

 

A legacy of light

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The tradition of painted candles in Aizuwakamatsu dates back to the early 16th century, during the region’s feudal era. What began as a practical endeavor under the local lord’s promotion of lacquer tree cultivation evolved into a sophisticated art form emblematic of Aizu’s cultural identity.

The craft flourished under subsequent lords, with many bringing in skilled engineers to refine the techniques. These painted candles became more than mere sources of light; they were prestigious gifts presented to the shogunate and other domains, contributing significantly to the region’s economy and artistic reputation.

 

Festival highlight

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Today’s festival transforms multiple locations throughout Aizuwakamatsu into magical spaces of light and shadow with around 10,000 beautifully hand-decorated candles. The centerpiece is Tsuruga Castle, with its distinctive architecture dramatically illuminated by the candles' glow. The castle's snow-covered grounds become a canvas for light installations showcasing traditional and contemporary candle art.

 

Beyond the illuminations

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Visitors looking to maximize their time in Aizu can participate in candle-making workshops where local candlemakers demonstrate their craft and share the stories behind different designs.

 

Where to stay: Aizu-Higashiyama Onsen Harataki

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If you’re looking for accommodations in Aizu, look no further than Aizu-Higashiyama Onsen Harataki. This traditional ryokan (traditional Japanese inn) offers accommodations that complement the festival experience. While the hotel is located in the peaceful Higashiyama Onsen area, it’s just a 15-minute taxi or 20-minute bus ride to Tsuruga Castle and Oyaku Garden.

The guest rooms have tatami floors and futon bedding, providing an authentic Japanese hotel experience within an historic setting. The property's onsen (hot spring) offers guests a warm and relaxing bath after an evening out enjoying the painted candle festival.

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There are several room types to choose from, including ones with a hot spring bath. Guests can opt for the Japanese breakfast that’s as much about artful presentation as it is about taste. For the best rates and to ensure availability, booking at least two months in advance is recommended, especially during the festival period.

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