#Japan #Yamagata #Yamagata City #Photography Exhibition #Atsushi Kobayashi

Discover Yamagata City Through Stunning Night Photography

Yamagata City, located in Gifu Prefecture, is set to captivate visitors with its night beauty through a unique photography exhibition titled 'GIFU NIGHTTIME GLOW'. This exhibition is not just a display of art; it’s a collaboration aimed at highlighting the charm of this picturesque area, linking local talent and city promotion efforts.

Collaboration for Local Promotion

The exhibition marks the partnership between Pony Canyon, a media production company based in Tokyo, and Ogaki Kyoei Bank. This collaboration aims to promote Yamagata City starting in 2024, and the 'GIFU NIGHTTIME GLOW' showcase is a pivotal part of this initiative. Local artist Atsushi Kobayashi, a photographer from Gifu, is known for his distinctive theme of blending photography with regional revitalization.

As part of the exhibition journey, the collaboration with Kobayashi sheds light on the natural beauty of Yamagata City, engaging audiences from Tokyo to Osaka. From July 1 to July 14, 2025, the photos will first grace THE GALLERY at Nikon Plaza Tokyo, before heading to Osaka from July 24 to August 6, 2025.

Features of the Exhibition

At the heart of the exhibition are captivating nighttime photographs taken by Kobayashi in Yamagata. Featured artworks include:

• - Views from Koshiyama
• - Miyama Forest - Fireflies
• - Tokoji Temple - Rhododendron Light-Up

Each image offers a unique perspective on the city's enchanting landscapes, inviting visitors to experience Yamagata's historical and natural allure.

In conjunction with the stunning photographs, a 'PHOTO SQUARE' has been established, showcasing promotional videos of Yamagata City, alongside flyers and pamphlets to offer deeper insights about the region to interested visitors.

Deep Relations with Yamagata City

Kobayashi's connection to Yamagata runs deep, as he previously spent a year documenting the city for its official calendar. He describes Yamagata’s appeal as stemming from its rich natural environment, exemplified by its vibrant greenery and pristine waters.

Kobayashi emphasizes, “Hosting this exhibition in major urban areas like Tokyo and Osaka is intentional. The niche theme of 'Gifu at Night' allows showcasing the unique charms inherent to Gifu, which differ from the glitzy urban nightscapes typically found in larger cities. I believe showcasing Gifu through photography is key to attracting more visitors.”

Significance of Photography in Regional Promotion

The role of photography in enhancing regional visibility cannot be underestimated; a single striking image can draw tourists worldwide. This phenomenon of 'Instagram tourism' shows how powerful visual representation can be in elevating local areas to global attention.

As municipalities allocate budgets for PR activities, the impact of social media on travel decisions continues to rise, leading to what is now commonly known as 'overtourism.' This exhibition aims to inspire photo enthusiasts from metropolitan areas to explore Yamagata City, potentially boosting visitor numbers.

Upcoming Events

In addition to the photo exhibition, a talk event is set for July 26, 2025, featuring Kobayashi and Yukikawa Kawai, a key figure in local revitalization and outdoor writing. This event is free but will have limited seating, highlighting the community’s revered engagement with its local culture and art.

Event Details

• - Tokyo Venue: Nikon Plaza Tokyo, THE GALLERY
• - Dates: July 1-14, 2025
• - Osaka Venue: Nikon Plaza Osaka, THE GALLERY
• - Dates: July 24 - August 6, 2025

Throughout the exhibition, attendees are invited to explore not only breathtaking visuals but also the rich narrative of Yamagata City, stimulating interest in this hidden gem of Japan.