An illumination unit includes LEDs and a tabular light guide plate having a light emitting surface for emitting light from the LEDs as planar light, wherein a recessed portion is formed in the opposite surface of the light emitting surface of the light guide plate, and the LED is provided in the recessed portion so that the optical axis of the LED becomes parallel to the light emitting surface of the light guide plate. Here, a dimming pattern is provided at a location corresponding to the LED of the light emitting surface of the light guide plate, and furthermore a first light guide pattern is provided on the light emitting surface of the light guide plate and a second light guide pattern is provided on a rear surface that is a reflective surface.