¡°Turn off the lights, and take it slow tonight¡°: If this reads like advice on how to pamper yourself at the end of a long work week, that isn¡¯t entirely off the mark.
The phrase is the tagline for Candle Night, which, while eco-friendly in nature, encourages people to turn off the lights not only to save energy, but also to recharge themselves.
First organized on the summer solstice of 2003 by organic-food delivery service Daichi wo Mamoru Kai, the event has become one of the largest yearly happenings in Tokyo. It¡¯s held every year on the grounds of Zojoji Temple, with the highlight of the evening being a blackout countdown by Tokyo Tower. There are also live musical performances ¡ª this year by singer-songwriters Hanaregumi and Takada Ren ¡ª as well as food trucks selling eco-snacks and, of course, thousands of lit candles setting the mood.
Now in its 11th year, the Candle Night concept has grown considerably over time and spread across the country; independent organizers from Sapporo to Kagoshima put on events every year coinciding with the summer and winter solstices. Following the Great East Japan Earthquake and subsequent energy-saving measures, Candle Night has become even more determined in promoting its aims.
While it might all sound like something for the ecologically inclined, promoters emphasize that it¡¯s not just about saving the environment. Rather, it¡¯s about getting together with family and friends, or taking a moment for yourself, and enjoying quality time. Think of it as ¡°me¡± time, with a good conscience.
Candle Night 2013 takes places at Zojoji Temple in Minato-ku, Tokyo, on June 21 (6 p.m.-9 p.m.). For more information, visit .
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