Abstract: An illumination apparatus includes a discharge tube for emitting light upon an application of an external high frequency wave electromagnetic field, an electrode, arranged outside the discharge tube, for applying the high frequency wave electromagnetic field to the discharge tube, a high frequency wave applying unit for supplying high frequency wave power to the electrode, and a projected portion extending from the discharge tube. The projected portion extends to a position where the high frequency wave electromagnetic field generated by the electrode has a level lower than a discharge initiation level. The high frequency wave power is controlled by changing a voltage, a frequency, a duty ratio or the like.