Many have speculated that it could be something supernatural or cosmic, but a new report suggests that hunting lights were responsible. According to a report from the mothership, the lights were first seen in Tottori, Japan in May
Recently, breathtaking images of a glowing sight in the night sky above the city of Tottori in Japan created a wave of speculation on social media platforms. A lot of people thought it was some kind of cosmic or extraterrestrial phenomenon, and these pictures showed nine pillars of light that were rising above the horizon. However, the real source of this amazing display was revealed by an article published recently.
According to a report from the mothership, the phenomenon observed in Tottori on May 11 has been identified as a phenomenon known in Japan as “isaribi kochu”, which translates to “pillars of light that attract fish.” These mesmerizing lights are not of supernatural origin, but are the result of practical fishing techniques used by local fishermen.
Initial images capturing the illuminated pillars were shared on social media by a user named Mashi, who captured the scene from the coastal city of Dessin. Later, another user named totoro8201 posted a similar photo, claiming he saw rays of light from Nariishi Beach, about 12 kilometers east of Daisen. The images immediately attracted attention, leading to widespread speculation about their origin.
Contrary to the cosmic theories circulating online, the truth behind these glowing pillars is based on the ancient practice of squid hunting. As reported by sunnyskyz.com, Japanese fishermen use special lights called “isaribi”, a key technique for squid fishing, to attract larger catches. These lights create a wonderful visual effect especially in certain weather conditions.
This phenomenon occurs when temperatures drop sufficiently during the night to cause ice crystals to form in the atmosphere above fishing vessels. In rain-free conditions, these ice crystals act as mirrors, reflecting light emitted by fishermen’s boats. The result is a series of bright vertical rays of light that can be seen from the beach, mesmerizing viewers and sparking imaginative interpretations.
“Japan Today” provided an explanation of the word “isaribi”, meaning “fishing fire”, which is a light used on fishing vessels to attract large amounts of fish, especially squid fishing. In. During cool night temperatures, crystals can sometimes grow in the atmosphere above illuminated fishing boats. In some circumstances where large crystals form without any precipitation, rays of light may appear as a result of boat lights reflecting off these crystals. He explained the word “isaribi”, which translates as “fishing fire”, was a light used on fishing vessels to attract large fish, especially in squid fisheries. During cool night temperatures, crystals can sometimes grow in the atmosphere above illuminated fishing boats. In some circumstances where large crystals form without any precipitation, rays of light may be visible as a result of boat lights reflecting off these crystals.
The same incident was seen at the lighthouse in Canada
While initial explanations for the illuminated display leaned toward supernatural origins, the revelation of its true nature highlights the fascinating intertwining of tradition, technology, and atmospheric phenomena. The Isaribi Kocho phenomenon is a reminder of the rich cultural practices associated with the natural world, offering a glimpse of the ingenuity of human endeavors in harmony with nature.
