Photo/Illutration Minato Park is crowded with people enjoying the brilliant colors of the lanterns in Nagasaki on Jan. 29. (Masaru Komiyaji)

NAGASAKI--Around 15,000 colorful lanterns have bathed the city of Nagasaki in dazzling color and light as the 30th Nagasaki Lantern Festival kicked off on Jan. 29.

The annual event, which includes dragon dances, Eisa dances, Erhu performances and Henmen shows at venues across the city, celebrates and coincides with the Chinese New Year.

Each festival venue, including Minato Park near Shinchi Chinatown, has been decorated with festive lanterns and other ornaments—some in the shape of twisting dragons or shining heroes of legend, casting a magical glow over the city.

The event will be held until Feb. 12. The popular Emperor Parade will take place on Feb. 1 and 8.