Ever wondered what happens when you mix twinkling lights, ocean views, jazz music, and picnics? Well, you get “Illumibanta Night Lights by the Sea” in Yomitan Village—a three-month spectacle that’ll make your winter nights anything but boring! 🌃✨🌊 Let’s dive into what’s in store.
What is Illumibanta? 🏝️
“Illumibanta” is a clever mash-up of Okinawan words and good old illumination magic. The word comes from “Iyumi-banta,” which means “cliff where you can see fish.” Imagine that—plus lights. Lots of lights. 💡🌊 This event lights up the beautiful seaside landscape around Banta Café, creating a dreamy scene perfect for an evening stroll.
When and Where 📅
Dates: December 1, 2024, to February 28, 2025
Location: Banta Café by Hoshino Resort, Yomitan Village, Okinawa
Admission: Free if you visit Banta Café or Aolu Grill!
Note: They’ll be taking a break from January 13 to 26, and things might get canceled if the weather’s a bit too dramatic. 🌪️⛈️
Illuminations, Jazz, and More! 🎶✨
Here’s why Illumibanta is worth your winter bucket list:
- Seaside Lights: Picture this—the ocean, white sand, and cliffs lit up with soft, glowing lights. You get to walk down a path that feels like it leads right into the stars. ⭐️
- Lamps Made from Local Crafts: This year, they’ve introduced “Ma-ni and Kuba Lampshades”—crafted from long palm leaves. Think warm light spilling through woven patterns—cozy vibes, anyone? 💡
- Upcycled Lanterns: Oh, and don’t miss the “Float Lanterns”—crafted with over 400 recycled soda bottles in collaboration with local artisans. These 50 glass lanterns light up the beach, transforming the coast into a magical scene! Who knew soda bottles could be so artsy? 🥤🛠️
Special Events: Mark Your Calendar! 📅
1. Uchina Jazz Live (Saturdays) 🎶
If you’re a fan of live music, you’re in for a treat. Okinawan jazz has over 70 years of history—and you can groove to its laid-back rhythm while waves crash gently in the background. 🌊 Oh, and on December 24, a big band is swinging by to jazz up your Christmas! 🎄✨
Dates: Dec 7 & 21, 2024; Jan 4, Feb 1 & 15, 2025
Time: 8 PM (30-minute sets)
2. Night Lights Marketplace (Saturdays) 🛍️✨
Local craft vendors bring their A-game to this pop-up market. You’ll find ocean-themed candles, wooden lampshades, and even Okinawan metalwork. Perfect if you’re on the hunt for something unique—or just want to splurge on something for yourself. No judgment! 😉
Dates: Dec 14 & 28, 2024; Jan 11, Feb 8 & 22, 2025
Time: 5 PM – 9 PM
Foodie Highlights: Night Picnic Set and More 🍽️
Night Picnic Set 🌿🍙
Want to really soak in the atmosphere? Grab the “Night Picnic Set.” It’s packed in a cute little basket and comes with two luxurious versions of pork tamago onigiri, plus warm Yushi Tofu soup. You can snag a spot on the beach or terrace—they even provide lanterns and beach mats! ☀️
Time: From 6 PM (last orders at 8:30 PM)
Price: ¥3,800 for two people (tax included)
No reservations needed, but it’s limited—so get in while you can!
Umanchu Grill Dinner at Aolu Grill 🍖
Feel like going big? The “Umanchu Grill Dinner” is served on a 1-meter-long platter—loaded with spare ribs, seafood, and all the good stuff. Perfect for family or friends getting together. You can eat with a side of starry skies, thanks to the restaurant’s giant windows. 🌟
Time: From 5 PM (last orders at 8 PM)
Price: ¥8,000 (tax included)
Reservations required; two-person minimum
Ready for a Magical Night? ✨
From jazz tunes to night picnics and glowing ocean views, Illumibanta packs everything you could want in a winter night by the sea—minus the cold feet. So, if you’re in Okinawa between December and February, swing by Yomitan Village for a night you’ll probably talk about for a while. 🌃
And hey, bring your camera—you’ll want plenty of photos. 📸
Okinawa Inspired Holiday Gifts Now On Sale
Find the perfect Okinawa-inspired holiday gifts in our online shop and share the island spirit with loved ones!
Disclaimer
⚠️Disclaimer: Our passion for supporting local businesses drives us to share information about events in the Okinawa area. Please note that Oki Social is not responsible for hosting this event. It’s important to be aware that the event’s host reserves the right to make changes or even cancel the event without prior notice. Some photos and videos may come from various sources on the internet, whether official or unofficial. It is possible that some photos and videos may have been taken from the same event in previous occurrences.
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