For just one night in June, the Nishi-Umeda district will switch off its electric lights and instead bask in the glow of candles. This atmospheric event, which has been running for more than 20 years, aims to encourage locals and visitors to enjoy a slower evening amid candlelight while reflecting on the environmental issues and social challenges affecting us today.
Nishi-Umeda Park will serve as the focal point of the event, as it transforms into a Candle Park. Here you’ll find a candle installation by artist-activist Candle June, alongside candle-making workshops, a market, live music and food trucks.
Meanwhile, over at Herbis Plaza’s Herbis Square, you’ll find the event’s signature Nishi-Ume Andon display. Inspired by traditional Japanese designs, these paper-bag lanterns will feature heartwarming wishes and messages for the future.
Additionally, the streets of Nishi-Umeda will also come aglow with candle art by Kansai-based artists and students. These Candle Corridors are scattered across the district’s major landmarks including the Hilton Plaza, JP Tower Osaka, Herbis Plaza and Breeze Breeze, just to name a few. Some of these venues will even host free concerts for everyone to enjoy.
In the event of rain, Nishi-Umeda Candle Night will be postponed to the following day, June 10.