This iReport is part of an assignment:
Photo essays: Your stories in pictures
1
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The light of hope in Miyagi of Japan
Have you ever walked through a road lined with illuminated trees? It is one of the features of a famous event called “hikari-no-pageant” It is a kind of illumination event where many zelkova trees were decorated with lights. The event started in 1986 in Miyagi my home town located in eastern Japan. This annual event is held each December and almost all citizens in Miyagi go there about 2.8 million people in total. It was held from December 7 to 31st this year. I also go to there every year with my family or friends. This is my most favorite event in Miyagi! The shining lights moved me deeply. Since 2009, LED light bulbs have been used for environmental reasons. There is one pink light among all the other LED light bulbs. If you can find it, it is said that you will be happy. However, it is very difficult to see it. Therefore, everyone tries to find it during the event. Visitors are fascinated by the scenic beauty of this and enjoy finding the pink one! Moreover, there are stalls selling Chinese noodles, frankfurters, French fries, and so on. That is why there are a lot of smiles. This event is supported by fundraising from citizens every year because people in Miyagi look forward to it in winter. This is an essential event for people in Miyagi. The theme this year is “Be smile~ Walk for Hope ~.” This is a message for victims of the Great East Japan Earthquake. Almost all the lights, utility poles, stores and “hopes” went out when the earthquake happened. There was no brightness. A lot of people lived with candles for a short while after the earthquake. I was really in the depths of despair and realized how important and wonderful light is at that time. Almost all the people lost hope because of this disaster. Therefore, I wish everyone has hope as a result of seeing the “hikari-no-pageant.” I wish this light will give a future for everyone.
- TAGS:
- earthquake,
- illumination,
- miyagi,
- japan
- GROUPS:
- CNN International,
- Creative
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