Updated at 2022-03-24
Before light bulbs, people in Japan used toros, andons, and lanterns for lighting. Toros are placed in outdoor spaces. They are wooden, metal, or stone frames to protect the candle placed within. Andons were placed indoors. They were fundamentally enclosed, wooden candle holders. Lanterns were portable versions of andons. They were typically made using paper with a handle to be carried around. Even in a world with electric light bulbs, these lighting sources can still be seen in traditional architecture, tourist destinations, and izakayas. The andon in the picture was specially made to commemorate the relationship between Taoyuan and Narita.
Alliance Date: September 16, 2016
Language: Japanese
Area: 213.84 square kilometers
Population: Approx. 133,000 people
Main Industries/Features: Its main industries are tourism and agriculture. It also has Narita International Airport.