The Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA) operates a rocket engine research center in the rural town of Kakuda, and the city embraces this space heritage in its civic events.
The most visible symbol of this is the full-scale 49m H-II rocket model overlooking the town.
For the season, with a theme of “Let’s enjoy Christmas a bit closer to space”,
the rocket and surroundings were lit up with holiday illumination for visitors both local and from afar.
Surrounded by decorative illumination were a guitar ensemble mini concert, drawings for space-themed prizes, table magic shows and more for all ages.
Tōhoku Revival Calendar article: http://en.re-tohoku.jp/?p=9301