The illumination project for Karasuma-dori Street, which runs through the center of Kyoto City, started on December 5 between Oike-dori and Gojo-dori Streets. Orange-hued light warmly fills Kyoto at night as December has arrived. It will continue until January 11.

"Karasuma Dori Endo Kondan Kai," or Karasuma-dori Street roadside council, consisting of Kyoto City and roadside businesses, decided to continue the project from last year, aiming to create a festive atmosphere on the street. The scale of the event expanded this year as the number of businesses cooperating in the illumination increased by four for a total 25 participating companies.

The lighting ceremony was held at COCON Karasuma, a commercial complex in Shimogyo Ward, and when Takao Watabe, the council chairman and executive chairman of WATABE WEDDING CORPORATION, pressed the switch, the electric bulbs on the trunks and branches of the 47 trees lining the street were lit simultaneously. Shoppers and others stopped to look at the beautiful illumination. Kyoto City Junior Children's Choir performed Christmas songs, setting the mood for the year-end.

The light-up hours are from 5:00p.m. to 12:00a.m. Various events such as mini concerts will be held at roadside establishments during the illumination period.