The miniature lanterns are classic 1990s-era omiyage (souvenir) toys from Japan, representing two culturally significant destinations: 苗場 (Naeba) and 善光寺 (Zenkō-ji). Made from accordion-style paper with plastic ends, these lanterns are both playful and deeply nostalgic, often sold as mementos at tourist spots and temple visits.
Black Lantern – 苗場 (Naeba) This lantern hails from Naeba, a well-known ski and hot spring resort area in Niigata Prefecture. Popular among domestic tourists in the 80s and 90s, Naeba is especially famous for its snowy slopes, ropeways, and more recently, as the home of the Fuji Rock Festival. Painted in classic black with cream kanji characters for 苗場 (Naeba).
Comes with a suction cup mount, often used to stick onto car windows or home interiors — a nostalgic feature of 90s road trips and souvenir culture.
Pink Lantern – 善光寺 (Zenkō-ji) This bright pink lantern represents Zenkō-ji, a famous Buddhist temple located in Nagano Prefecture. It is one of the most important pilgrimage destinations in Japan and houses what is believed to be the first Buddhist statue ever brought to the country. Vibrant pink paper body with bold black and white lettering reading 「国宝 善光寺」(National Treasure Zenkō-ji). Emblazoned with mon-like emblems (family crests) for added cultural touch.
These lanterns were widely sold at gift shops in tourist and temple areas throughout the 1980s–1990s and represent a golden era of Japanese domestic travel culture.
