Sōunkyō Miracle Illumination: Japan’s Earliest Fall Foliage
Discover Japan’s earliest fall foliage in 2025 at the 8th Sōunkyō Miracle Illumination in Hokkaido, featuring light art, interactive displays, and autumn views.
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The scenic area of Sōunkyō Onsen in Kamikawa Town, Hokkaido, will host the eighth edition of Miracle Illumination from September 14 to October 13, 2025. This annual event, one of Japan’s most unique fall festivals, combines vibrant autumn foliage with innovative digital light art, creating a mesmerizing spectacle that draws both domestic and international visitors.
Located at the base of the Daisetsuzan mountain range within Daisetsuzan National Park, Sōunkyō is famed for its breathtaking natural scenery and its reputation as the site of Japan's earliest autumn color change. During the festival, the colorful foliage in Momiji Valley is illuminated after sunset, transforming the landscape into a magical, luminous wonderland.
In addition to the natural beauty, the event features an interactive art program that reacts to visitors' movements, adding a contemporary twist to the traditional autumn viewing experience. This fusion of nature and technology aims to create a captivating multisensory atmosphere.
Highlights of the 2025 Festival
Illuminated Autumn Foliage
he trees lining Momiji Valley are lit up in a way that highlights their vibrant reds, oranges, and yellows, creating a surreal landscape that contrasts sharply with the daytime view. Under the clear autumn night sky, the illuminated foliage offers a breathtaking spectacle.
Interactive Art Experiences
Seven different interactive art installations are scattered throughout the venue. Visitors can engage with these displays, which respond in real-time to their movements. Notable attractions include the Street Piano, where playing keys produces musical notes, and Yama no Ohana, where footprints turn into blooming flower fields, providing fun and engaging experiences for all ages.
Photo Contest with Prizes
During the event period, a photo contest will be held via Instagram. Participants can follow the official account and share their photos using the hashtag #MiracleIllumination for a chance to win prizes such as outdoor gear from Columbia and local specialties from Kamikawa Town.
Additional Features and Community Impact
This year’s edition introduces three new digital art contents at the main venue, with four additional projections along the pedestrian street in Sōunkyō Shopping Street. These immersive displays aim to enhance visitors’ experience further, fostering a deeper appreciation for the area's natural environment and cultural assets.
The event also promotes environmental conservation, with funds collected from participation—1,000 yen per person—contributing to the preservation of Momiji Valley’s natural scenery. Organizers hope to showcase the area's beauty while emphasizing ecological sustainability.
Miracle Illumination
Dates: September 14 – October 13, 2025
Hours: 18:00 - 21:00 (last entry at 20:30)
Location: Hokkaido, Kamikawa, Sōunkyō Onsen,Momiji Valley
Admission Fee: 1,000 yen per person (contribution to preservation efforts)
Access: Shuttle buses will operate throughout the period, connecting the shopping street and event venue (upward route only).
Official Websitehttps://sounkyo.net/event/illuminate/
Information and picture source: PR TIMES
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