The symbol on the northwest face represents the crescent moon ... in what is now western Kyushu, Japan. Kiso, kidan The lantern sits on a lotus-blossom base and a concrete platform.

Lanterns representing a brighter future for Japan were released into the night sky to mark the six-month anniversary of the earthquake. Video courtesy of Reuters.

Silence fell for a split second before the 18-meter main lantern burst to life, signaling the start of this year's highly anticipated Taiwan Lantern Festival. Undeterred by the pelting rain ...