Residents of an area in the northern Japanese prefecture of Akita lit thousands of candles set in snow walls to create a world of fantasy with soft, orange light.

It was part of a two-day "magic light" event over the weekend in Saruhannai in Yokote City. It took place while wide swathes of Japan struggled with record snowfalls.

The residents cut holes in the walls created from snow-removal work along a 10-kilometer road connecting six communities.

As dusk fell, they lit some 2,500 candles placed in the holes. Visitors could enjoy the mystic glow while walking alongside the road.

A local woman visited with her husband and 1-year-old child. She said the warm glow made them feel relaxed and view their hometown in a new light.

People in some communities made large animal statues of snow as well as igloos. Families leisurely enjoyed their winter-night excursions.

The snow event has a 20-year history. The head of a residents group who organized it says he hopes to continue the tradition even though there are fewer people around to help with preparations due to the communities' aging populations.