Island Lumina

Without exaggerating, the visit to Lumina Island was the most surreal trip I ever experienced. Our semester abroad in Nagasaki, Japan, was sprinkled with spontaneous excursions but this one can easily be classified as my ultimate favourite.

With some help from our Japanese friends, we discovered the possibility to travel to a neighbouring little island which was described as an enchanted forest. Not knowing what to expect, I was ready to walk around some kind of theme park and meet some garden nomes. Well, it was more than that.. much more! 

The experience takes the traveller on an immersive adventure created by the harmonious synthesis between nature and technology. The trip through the forest follows the story of Yura who must retrieve a light-giving jewel from the dragon which stole it from her village. At the beginning, you are welcomed at the entrance by some large campfires and a work station where you can paint on warrior signs on your face. The park is only open at night so the colours are fluorescent and the entire path is illuminated by special lights making you think that magic does exist. 

I will not spoil too much of the adventure but the way digital projections and the natural state of the island combine made me forgot about the real world. Moreover, everything is interactive so you will be challenged to find your way out of a maze or scare the evil dragon away by hitting some large drums. The background music perfectly blends into nature`s melody and on a windy day, you would almost think that the air currents are meant to be part of the show. 

Recommendations:

1. The trip from Nagasaki to Iojima Island where Lumina Island is maybe really though. We took the free shuttle bus provided by the company which took a little bit more than 30 minutes from Nagasaki station but the road was merciless. More than half of the way is on a winding road so don`t forget to bring some bags in case you get sick.

2. The ultimate experience is to go during the week when there are fewer people. That way you can take your time and take photos along the way without being interrupted. We went in December and were almost alone in the whole park and don`t worry the weather at night is not too bad so you can take a light jacket with you.

3. Do not forget at the end to pass by the souvenir store and also by the food truck placed outside. They have really nice hot chocolate and churros, perfect for after a long trip. And if you have the possibility, ask for any discounts they have, usually exchange students get a special price. 

All photo credits by Sjors Huser