As the December winds blow colder every day, several streets in Metropolitan Tokyo -the capital of Japan- can be found decorated with illuminations that glitter mysteriously at night.

"Kouto Tokyo LIGHTOPIA 2009" is held in the Marunouchi area, right next to Tokyo Station."Clouds of light" cover the historical areas of the Hibiya-bori, Babasaki-bori and Wadakura-bori moats, which retain the vestiges of Edo Castle. At Wadakura Funsui Koen (Fountain Park), akarie lanterns are displayed with drawings and messages written on them by celebrities and local children, while the surrounding trees and various fountains decorated with white lights combine to create a space filled with a serene, solemn glow. A "Flower Fantasia" takes place along Marunouchi Naka Street, where fresh flowers and illuminations are beautifully strung.

The illuminations at Omotesando Street, once a well-known winter event, will appear this year for the first time in 11 years. The kilometer-long zelkova-lined stretch of Omotesando Street will be illuminated with LED lights, reminiscent of tree buds. Bells attached to the shrubbery can easily be sounded by the gentle winds, realizing a "fusion illumination of light and sound. "During this season, shops in the Harajuku and Omotesando areas hold various events and sales, and this in turn generates a festive mood. Also, Omotesando Hills offers a unique skating rink to enjoy, using a new synthetic material instead of ice.

Illuminations shine beautifully in the clear air. Enjoy the glittering beauty of Tokyo's night sky.