Photo/Illutration A hot air balloon is about to be launched from an exercise yard of the former Nara Prison in Nara on Aug. 2, with a red brick detention building seen in the back. (Mayo Tomioka)

NARA--A prison breakout by hot air balloon will be one of the highlights of an autumn festival here when the former century-old Nara Prison here is opened to the public.

Built in 1908, the Romanesque structure is designated by the central government as an important cultural property. It was used until 2017 to accommodate juvenile delinquents, and is set to be reborn as a luxury hotel in 2024.

Nagano Prefecture-based Hoshino Resorts Inc. plans to start renovation work as early as November, so the balloon riding event during the annual Nara Aka Renga Festival will offer a rare opportunity for thrill-seekers to experience what it must feel like to bust out of prison.

The prison buildings are undergoing earthquake-resistance upgrades, while the interior is remodeled into a hotel.

“This fall will be the last chance to see its original shape, including the state of decay,” said Yasuji Yoshino, a member of the festival’s executive committee.

A test flight held Aug. 2 involved a balloon being launched from an exercise yard at the back of the prison. It floated about 20 meters above the facility.

Watching the detention buildings slowly recede into the distance, one participant said it felt like a jailbreak.

When there is no wind, balloons can rise to heights of 30 meters or so to offer a bird’s-eye view of the detention buildings arranged in a fan-shaped layout that spreads out from the center.

The festival will run for about a month, mainly on weekends in September and October. Guided tours will be offered by former correctional officers, along with photo sessions with professional photographers serving as instructors.

An exhibition and sale of products made by inmates is among other events planned.

For reservations and inquiries, visit the official website at (http://former-nara-prison.com/).

Related News