Aizu Painted Candle Festival

This winter tradition features the illumination of "Aizu Painted Candles"—a form of traditional craftsmanship—casting a magical glow over the snow-covered castle town. These painted candles were cherished by the upper class as offerings for shrines and temples and as high-end gifts; their use in wedding ceremonies is even said to be the origin of the Japanese term kashoku no ten (a formal wedding ceremony).