Yusui Tunnel Park Christmas Lights

Holiday illumination under the earth

By Mandy Bartok

Community writer

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A different kind of Christmas display can be found in the Yusui Tunnel Park in Takamori

Various organizations and local schools each decorate a tree

There are about 50 trees in total

About 150 meters of the tunnel are dedicated to the Christmas display

The Water Pearl exhibit at the end of the tunnel is fascinating - the drops seem to dance and defy gravity

The entrance to the Christmas display is ¥300

The Yusui Tunnel in Takamori was once created to connect the rail lines of Takamori (south of Mt Aso) and Takachiho, in nearby Miyazaki prefecture. The line was never extended but the tunnel doesn't exactly stand idle. In winter, the tunnel displays decorated Christmas trees along its 150 meter length. The illumination culminates with the fascinating "Water Pearl", a sound and light display where the water droplets appear to dance and defy gravity.

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By Mandy Bartok

Community writer

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Victoria Vlisides 8 years ago

Hi Mandy ~ any info regarding this for this season? :)

Justin Velgus 9 years ago

This is a fun place I had the chance to visit on my brief trip to Kumamoto two summers ago. The tunnel is great to escape the heat! I heard the line to extend the tunnel was foiled because of the high level of ground water in the area. This explains the constant stream flowing through the center of the tunnel. A water deity is said to live at the end of the tunnel...or perhaps beyond in the mountain.

Mandy Bartok Photographer 9 years ago

You're right on all counts, Justin. And there is a small shrine dedicated to a water god at the end of the tunnel, just beyond the water pearl demonstration.

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