Unzen Akari no Hana Boro
Go to Unzen for hot springs, rime ice and winter illuminations
Tomas Kauer - News Moderator 
Known as hana boro in Japanese, rime ice is a must-see phenomenon in Nagasaki Prefecture’s hot spring town of Unzen. Come February, the town sparkles with delicate ice crystals against a sea of LED lights.
Unzen Hot Spring Town
Photo by: PIXTA/ KOROKICHIKUN A perfect way to end a day spent outdoors
Located in the Unzen-Amakusa National Park, Unzen town has long been known for its hot springs. In addition to taking a relaxing soak, the area is also great for hikers, nature lovers and people interested in the dark history of Christian persecution in Japan. In the middle of winter, rime ice forms throughout the region. With temperatures below zero and strong winds blowing mountaintop mists over Unzen’s forests, rime ice forms to the delight of residents and visitors alike.
Every Saturday evening around 9:00, head to the center of town. To celebrate the Rime Ice Festival, town organizers launch fireworks into the night sky. In the event of light rain, the fireworks will still take place. But, the event will be canceled if the rain is heavier.
Winter Illuminations
Photo by: PIXTA/ kattyan Take a walk through the town
The hot spring town will be illuminated during the festival period. Lights will go on in the evening, starting around 5 p.m. until 10 p.m. Everything from trees and bushes to buildings and special installations will bear hundreds of multi-colored LED lights. Walking around the town is a treat enough, but you can also head to special illuminations hosted elsewhere in Unzen.
Kyu Hachiman Jigoku (Unzen Hells) is one of the most popular hot spring locales in town, with a history stretching back centuries. Drawing inspiration from a local children’s book, Unzen Hells becomes a glowing landscape complete with illuminated trees and animals. As an added bonus, Unzen Hells is also hosting a free game where visitors attempt to solve a riddle. Correct answers will be thrown into a draw, with winning entries receiving a prize.
Other Highlights
Go to Unzen Hells on any Sunday morning during the festival season and try out an eco-tatsu. Kotatsu is a type of Japanese furniture that blends a table and heater to create a cozy living room. Eco-tatsu takes a green approach and uses the area’s geothermal energy to power the warm seat.
On two Sundays (Feb. 9 and 16), you’ll be able to hear quartets filling Keyaki Plaza with live music starting from 11 a.m. On the 23rd, a quintet will perform in the Unzen Hells area from 2:30 p.m.
