Lighting Day (Akari no Hi)

What Is Lighting Day?

October 21 is "Lighting Day." Established in 1981 by four organizations including the Japan Electric Lamp Manufacturers Association (now the Japan Lighting Manufacturers Association) and the Japan Electric Association, to commemorate Thomas Edison's successful development of the practical incandescent light bulb on October 21, 1879, this day is a chance to reflect on the importance of lighting and to raise awareness about energy conservation.

Why October 21 for Lighting Day?

Edison succeeded in developing an incandescent bulb that could stay lit for a long time, dramatically changing daily life around the world. October 21, the date often cited for this success, was chosen as the day to look back on the history and role of lighting.

• October 21, 1879: Edison successfully developed the practical incandescent light bulb.
• Established by: Four organizations in 1981, including the Japan Electric Lamp Manufacturers Association (now the Japan Lighting Manufacturers Association) and the Japan Electric Association.
• Purpose: To raise awareness of the importance of lighting and promote energy conservation.

The Kyoto Bamboo Edison Chose

To keep an incandescent bulb glowing for a long time, Edison needed a filament (the part that glows) that would not burn out quickly. According to Yawata City, Edison tried thousands of materials, including metals and cotton thread, and found that bamboo worked best; his assistants then collected bamboo samples from around the world, including Kyoto. From these came a durable filament that burned for more than 1,000 hours, leading to the practical incandescent bulb. The bamboo used is said to have been madake bamboo from near Iwashimizu Hachimangu Shrine in Yawata, Kyoto Prefecture. An article by the Government of Japan's public relations office says bulbs using Yawata bamboo were made from around 1881 and used until a new filament material was found in 1894.

The grounds of Iwashimizu Hachimangu Shrine have an "Edison Monument." It was built in 1934, moved to its current location in 1958, and rebuilt in 1984. Every year, an Edison birthday festival is held on February 11 and a memorial ceremony around October 18, the anniversary of his death, when the flags of Japan and the United States are raised in front of the monument. Just before Lighting Day, Kyoto holds a ceremony in Edison's memory.

The Role of Lighting

Lighting is a key factor in quality of life, and it's drawing attention for its impact on safety, comfort, health, and energy efficiency.

• Safety: Improves visibility at night and helps prevent accidents.
• Comfort: Brightness and color temperature shape the atmosphere of a space.
• Health: The quality of light affects sleep and concentration.
• Energy efficiency: The spread of LED lighting has dramatically reduced power consumption.

Interesting Facts About Lighting Day

• The evolution of incandescent bulbs: Improvements in filament materials dramatically extended their lifespan.
• The spread of LEDs: LEDs give about the same brightness as incandescent bulbs using far less power.
• Kyoto bamboo: Edison later searched for longer-lasting filament materials and produced bulbs with filaments made from Kyoto bamboo.
• Lighting design: Lighting is increasingly valued as a key element of interior design.
• Light pollution: Excessive artificial light can negatively affect ecosystems.

Fluorescent Lamps Will Stop Being Made by the End of 2027

According to Japan's Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry (METI), following decisions by the conference of the parties to the Minamata Convention on Mercury, which regulates mercury-added products, the manufacture, import and export of fluorescent lamps for general lighting are being restricted step by step from January 2026 and will end by the end of 2027. This is because fluorescent lamps contain mercury, which raises concerns about risks to human health and the environment. The deadline depends on the type: compact fluorescent lamps by the end of 2026, and straight and non-straight (such as circular) tri-phosphor fluorescent lamps by the end of 2027.

Even after the restrictions begin, you can keep using the fluorescent lamps you have, and stock can still be bought and sold. METI says there is no need to immediately replace fluorescent lamps that are working safely, and asks people to switch to LED lighting in a planned way — for example, when a lamp burns out.

• Bulb-shaped fluorescent lamps: These can be replaced with bulb-shaped LED lamps. Check the size and base to find one that fits.
• Circular fluorescent lamps: These can be replaced with an LED ceiling light. If your ceiling has a standard hook-type ceiling socket ("hikkake ceiling"), you can replace it yourself by following the instructions; if not, electrical work may be needed.
• Straight tube fluorescent lamps: You can replace the whole fixture or just the lamp. Even replacing just the lamp may require electrical work. Incorrect installation can cause accidents such as fires, so check the instruction manual to see whether the lamp fits your fixture, and consult an electrical shop or contractor.

Tips for Making the Most of Lighting Day

• Switch your home lighting to LEDs to save energy.
• Choose the right color temperature (warm white, daylight, etc.) for each room.
• Add indirect lighting to create a relaxing space.
• Learn about the history of lighting and Edison's inventions.

A Day to Appreciate the Light That Illuminates Our Lives

Lighting Day on October 21 is a chance to take a fresh look at the value of the lighting we use every day without thinking. A little creativity with light can make your living space remarkably richer.