Zojo-ji Temple & Tokyo Tower (Candle Night)

Japan is all about the contrast between tradition and modernity, and nowhere is a better example of this than Zojo-ji Temple. The historic temple is the head of the Jodo sect of Japanese Buddhism and dates back to the 17th century. But looming over its shoulder is Tokyo Tower, an iconic display of modern-day Tokyo. Zojo-ji Temple is known for its location right in front of the illuminated Tokyo Tower. But every July, the temple puts on its own light display with its Candle Night, where thousands of candles are placed on the steps of the temple's staircase and approach path, creating what appears to be a shimmering golden river of light that leads to Tokyo Tower.