In January 1975, shortly after the hotel opened, a special television program broadcasted live footage of a Beatles movie being projected onto the side of the Keio Plaza Hotel. This unprecedented event, which used a skyscraper as a movie screen, inspired the hotel staff to create a large-scale event using the hotel’s facade. This led to the birth of “Illumination Night” in December 1994.
Approximately 400 guests participated as performers, opening and closing their room curtains in unison to create a magnificent light display on the hotel’s facade. The event was held for one night only, and the clear winter sky was illuminated with around 20 different designs and messages. The event attracted many spectators each year, and the area around the hotel was filled with joyful cheers. The greatest highlight of the event was the sense of unity and teamwork between the hotel staff and guests. This handmade event was met with great enthusiasm and became a beloved Christmas tradition for 20 years until 2014.
In the summer of 2020, during the COVID-19 pandemic, the hotel utilized the knowledge gained from “Illumination Night” to create “Illumination Message - Let’s Get Well Soon.” The hotel staff drew a heart shape on the facade as a message of love and gratitude to healthcare workers and the local community. The event touched the hearts of many.
“Illumination Night” was an event that brought smiles to both the participants and spectators, and the warm feelings shared through the hotel facade have become a cherished memory and a valuable asset for Keio Plaza Hotel.
