Tokyo Tower Lights Up for the Holidays with Stunning Winter Fantasy Illuminations
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| PHOTO 📷 Yasumasa Kikuchi :The "Little Tokyo Tower" proved a charming subject for visitors on November 15, 2024 who couldn't resist snapping photos to capture the festive moment. |
TOKYO, Japan - Tokyo Tower, one of Japan's most iconic landmarks, is celebrating the holiday season once again with a dazzling display of lights that transform the 333-meter-high structure into a warm beacon of festive cheer. As part of its annual Winter Fantasy program, which kicked off on November 15, the tower's iconic silhouette is now beautifully illuminated in a rich, golden-orange hue, setting the stage for a magical holiday experience.
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A Sparkling Orange Garden at the Tower's Base
In keeping with this year’s theme, an “orange garden” has been set up in the plaza in front of the main entrance on the first floor. This vibrant installation features an impressive 42,000 LED lights that create a warm, inviting atmosphere. The soft glow of these lights is designed to evoke the feelings of the season and complement the tower's festive ambiance.
At the heart of the plaza stands a striking 10-meter-tall miniature version of Tokyo Tower, dubbed the “Little Tokyo Tower.” Adorned with shimmering lights, it resembles a giant Christmas tree, further adding to the holiday spirit of the venue.
Light and Sound Show to Delight Visitors
One of the most anticipated features of this year’s Winter Fantasy program is the mesmerizing light and sound show, which will take place every 15 minutes from 4 p.m. to 10:30 p.m. daily until December 25. The show combines vibrant lighting displays with synchronized music, providing a captivating experience for both locals and visitors alike. The illuminations are free to enjoy, making it an accessible event for everyone.
Extended Viewing Hours for Tokyo Tower’s Observation Decks
For those looking to enjoy a breathtaking view of the holiday illuminations from above, Tokyo Tower’s observation decks are open late into the evening. The last admission to the main observation deck is at 10:30 p.m., while the last entry to the top deck is at 10:15 p.m. Visitors can enjoy panoramic views of the city, including the sparkling lights of the tower itself and the surrounding area, creating a stunning holiday scene that will leave a lasting impression.
A Holiday Tradition in Tokyo
Tokyo Tower's Winter Fantasy program has become a beloved annual tradition for both residents and tourists, offering a festive atmosphere and a chance to take in one of Tokyo’s most famous landmarks in all its illuminated splendor. With its beautiful lights, immersive displays, and the holiday cheer that fills the air, the Tokyo Tower Winter Fantasy is a must-see event for anyone in the city this season.
Whether you're visiting Tokyo for the first time or a local resident looking for a festive night out, Tokyo Tower’s holiday illuminations promise to deliver an unforgettable experience for all.
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| Courtesy BSP |
BSP Highlights Enhanced Security and Durability of New 1000-Peso Polymer Banknote
Manila, Philippines – The Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) is shining a spotlight on its newly released 1000-peso polymer banknote, emphasizing its enhanced security features and superior durability compared to traditional paper currency. The introduction of this innovative banknote marks a significant step forward in the modernization of the Philippine financial system.
The 1000-peso polymer banknote, a key component of the First Philippine Polymer (FPP) Banknote Series, proudly showcases two iconic national symbols: the majestic Philippine eagle, a symbol of freedom and strength, and the delicate sampaguita flower, representing purity and grace. These emblems are prominently featured on the obverse side of the note, instantly recognizable to Filipinos.
The reverse side of the banknote features equally compelling imagery, showcasing the breathtaking beauty of the Tubbataha Reefs Natural Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a testament to the Philippines' rich marine biodiversity. Complementing this image is a depiction of a native South Sea pearl, a symbol of the country's valuable natural resources and its pearl-farming industry.
The BSP has emphasized the use of cutting-edge polymer technology in the production of this new banknote. Polymer banknotes are known for their enhanced durability, resistance to wear and tear, and increased lifespan compared to their paper counterparts. This translates to significant cost savings for the BSP in the long run, reducing the frequency of banknote replacement and minimizing environmental impact through reduced paper consumption.
Beyond durability, the polymer substrate also offers superior security features, making the banknote more resistant to counterfeiting. The BSP has incorporated several advanced security elements into the design, making it extremely difficult for counterfeiters to replicate accurately. These features, while not publicly detailed for security reasons, are designed to deter counterfeiting and maintain the integrity of the Philippine currency.
The FPP Banknote Series, of which the 1000-peso note is the first, represents a gradual transition towards a more modern and secure currency system. The polymer banknotes will circulate alongside existing paper banknotes, allowing for a smooth integration into the existing financial infrastructure. This phased approach minimizes disruption to the public and allows for a period of adjustment and familiarization with the new currency.
The BSP has launched a comprehensive public awareness campaign to educate Filipinos about the new banknote, highlighting its features and benefits. The campaign utilizes various media channels to reach a wide audience, ensuring that the public is well-informed about the transition. The central bank encourages everyone to familiarize themselves with the new 1000-peso polymer banknote and its security features.
The BSP's commitment to innovation in currency production reflects its dedication to maintaining a robust and secure financial system for the Philippines. The introduction of the polymer banknote is a significant step towards achieving this goal, enhancing the efficiency, security, and longevity of the Philippine peso. For more detailed information on the new banknote and the FPP Banknote Series, the BSP invites the public to visit their dedicated polymer website: bit.ly/PolymerPH. The website provides comprehensive information, high-resolution images, and interactive elements to aid in the identification of genuine banknotes. The BSP remains committed to keeping the Philippine currency secure, reliable, and a source of national pride.
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