There's something magic about twinkling lights set against the night sky, and Japan has a host of fantastic illumination events that draw in crowds from far and wide. In Niigata Prefecture, the prime illumination event is the APA Resorts Apallusion, which takes on a different theme each year.
Alongside the incredible number of LED lights (the event has been recognized in the Guinness Book of Records!), there are sections with 3D projection mapping, adding to the dreamy and whimsical feel.
At the 2019 event, international visitors who present their passports will receive free admission, so if you're in that category be sure to bring it along with you. Regular adult admission for those without a foreign passport is 1500 yen.
