NARA--A prison breakout by hot air balloon will be a highlight of a fall festival when the former century-old Nara Prison here is opened to the public.
Built in 1908, the Romanesque structure has been designated as an Important Cultural Property by the central government. It was used until 2017 to house juvenile delinquents and is set to be reborn as a luxury hotel in 2024.
Nagano Prefecture-based Hoshino Resorts Inc. plans to begin renovations in early November, so a balloon riding event during the annual Nara Aka Renga festival will offer thrill-seekers a rare opportunity to experience what it's like. Prison.
The prison buildings are undergoing earthquake-resistant upgrades, while the interior has been remodeled into a hotel.
"This fall will be the last chance to see its original form, including its state of decay," said Yasuji Yoshino, a member of the festival's executive committee.
A test flight held on August 2 involved launching a balloon from a practice yard behind the prison. It floats about 20 meters above the facility.
Watching the detention buildings recede slowly into the distance, one participant said it felt like a jailbreak.
When there is no wind, the balloons can rise to heights of 30 meters or more to provide a bird's-eye view of the detention buildings arranged in a fan-shaped pattern radiating from the center.
The festival will last for about a month, mainly on weekends in September and October. Former correctional officers will offer guided tours with photo sessions with professional photographers acting as instructors.
Other events planned include an exhibition and sale of products made by inmates.
For reservations and inquiries, visit the official website (http://former-nara-prison.com/).
Post a Comment