Ice lanterns: how to
Photos: Japan Travel
Did you know there’s an ancient tradition in Japan of making ice lanterns? Every February, Akita, Japan transforms into a fairytale landscape dotted with igloo-like structures in a festival dating back 400 years. These snow houses are known as Kamakura and are built in various areas around the city.
The largest Kamakura stand up to three meters high and four meters wide, with the locals welcoming guests inside their candle-lit interior with offerings of mochi rice cakes and amazake (sweet sake). In each Kamakura you'll also come across a small snow shrine, since traditionally these structures acted as refuge for local spirits – in times gone by the festival goers would pray for success and safety.
Plenty of smaller Kamakura act as lanterns guiding the way for passers-by visiting the festival.
from Japan Travel
An upside of the freezing temperatures we’re experiencing is it’s perfect weather to make ice lanterns. There are many ways to make them; we’ve had success using helium-grade balloons. Helium-grade balloons are stronger than regular balloons and necessary because they can be filled with more water.
1.
Fill the balloon to desired size with cool water - ideal 12-18 inch diameter.
2.
Take your balloon outside. Using a piece of styrofoam or cardboard for a base, place it tie-side down (for nice dome shape). The base is meant to insulate the bottom so it doesn’t freeze.
3.
Pack snow gently around the edges of the balloon so it doesn’t roll off the base, and leave for 8-12 hours depending on temperature.
4.
You’ll know it’s ready when the sides are frozen solid, no more than a centimetre thick. Make sure there’s a good-size ‘cavern’ inside for the candle - be careful not to let the sides get too thick.
5.
Puncture the balloon and pour out the water.
6.
Drill through the top of the dome, making a ‘chimney’ for the candle to vent.
8.
Light and cover a candle with your ice lantern, enjoy!
