An Introduction to Okashi no Machioka 「「おかしのまちおか」 Okashi no Machioka」, is a video created by 「IKEBUKURO GOURMET」. It introduces the sweets shop "Okashi no Machioka" which is a very popular destination for those visiting Japan. Over 1000 varieties of sweets are sold here at extremely low prices, making this the perfect place for sweet lovers, or those who are looking to buy Japanese souvenirs. This article will introduce the charm of Okashi no Machioka. What is Okashi no Machioka? Source of photo :YouTube screenshot Okashi no Machioka is a popular sweets shop in Japan managed by the Minoya Corporation (株式会社みのや, Kabushiki-gaisha Minoya), and there are over 150 Okashi no Machioka locations throughout Japan. A wide selection of snacks from various brands are sold here. As seen from 1:27 in the video, snacks such as candies and gum are sold at very reasonable prices. This shop is popular among people of all ages, from the young to the elderly. The Greatest Attraction of Okashi no Machioka: Unbelievably Low Prices Source of photo :YouTube screenshot Sometimes, up to a 90% discount is available for selected sweets. Information about limited-time campaigns or opening sales is available on online or on flyers, so do make sure to check those frequently. The secret behind the low prices of Okashi no Machioka is that products are displayed in bulk in cardboard boxes, thus reducing the need for additional fixtures and cutting operating costs. You can see the products lined up in the shop from 0:09 in the video. The Products of Okashi no Machioka Source of photo :YouTube screenshot Okashi no Machioka is also popular with foreigners. These visitors mostly purchase sweets as souvenirs. Matcha KitKats, Assorted Kit Kats, Chiroru Chocolate, Matcha Mochi, Kororo, Hi-Chew, and Matcha Oreo are some of the most popular items. Every year around the start of the new year, "lucky bags" are sold for 1,000 yen (~$9 USD). The bags are stuffed to the brim with sweets, making them well worth the price. These bags have received favorable reviews from many satisfied customers as well. Besides this, "dagashi," (駄菓子, Japanese penny candy), and sweets assortments, are also popular. Where is Okashi no Machioka? Photo：Highrises in Shinjuku There are Okashi no Machioka shops in cities all over Japan. Besides the inner Tokyo shops in Kichijoji, Shibuya, Shinjuku, Ikebukuro, and more, there are also shops in Kawasaki, Musashi-Kosugi, Kita-senju, Funabashi, as well as other locations in the prefectures of Chiba, Kyoto, Saitama, and Osaka. The opening hours vary by location, so we recommend double checking this information on the Okashi no Machioka official homepage. Okashi no Machioka summed up The video 「「おかしのまちおか」 Okashi no Machioka」, by 「IKEBUKURO GOURMET」, introduces Okashi no Machioka, a popular sweets shop in Japan. Sweets are sold at extremely low prices, and with over a thousand varieties of sweets available, just taking a stroll through the shop makes for an enjoyable experience. If you want to eat lots of sweets at reasonable prices, or buy sweets as souvenirs, then this shop is exactly what you're looking for. The producer of the video can also be seen purchasing sweets at 2:24 of the video. If this article has piqued your interest, definitely check out the video!

Introducing the Classic "Chocolate Banana" This video, titled "Japanese Food Stall Classics – The Chocolate Banana｜Fukuoka, Japan" (日本の屋台の食べ物 - チョコレートバナナ 福岡日本). It introduces one of the classic foods sold at food stalls around Japan- the chocolate banana. In Japan, trying food from the various food stalls set up during festivals is an activity that anyone can enjoy. In this video you can see chocolate bananas being decorated to look like cute characters before being displayed at the front of the food stand. The chocolate banana is one of the most popular food stand items, along with other classics such as takoyaki, yakisoba, okonomiyaki, frankfurts, ikayaki, corn on the cob, baby castella, and buttered baked potatoes. Enjoy watching this introductory video on the popular Chocolate Banana! What are Chocolate Bananas? Photo：Chocolate bananas The chocolate banana, a popular food stall snack, is also sometimes called Choco Banana or Banana Choco. Bananas are skewered onto sticks and coated in delicious chocolate. They're a popular item sold at food stalls during festivals and special events in Japan. In this footage taken of a festival food stand in Fukuoka, you can see chocolate bananas being decorated with marshmallows and other sweets to look like cute characters. These cute looking chocolate bananas have to be one of the most Instagrammable foods in Japan! How to Make Chocolate Bananas Source :YouTube screenshot Chocolate bananas are actually pretty easy to make. First, dip your skewered banana into melted chocolate. Once the banana is fully coated allow the chocolate to dry. You can see this at 0:22 in the video. Of course, you can also enjoy eating the chocolate banana as it is but why not have fun decorating your chocolate banana with various toppings and colorful sprays? At 0:37 in the video, you can see how simple chocolate bananas are transformed into cute characters by decorating them with mini potato chips and marshmallows! You can easily make chocolate bananas at home too! Any time you're in the mood to make a chocolate banana, don't be shy about watching this video for inspiration! Chocolate and Banana Flavored Desserts Are Extremely Popular in Japan Photo：Chocolate banana crepe Chocolate and banana are very complementary flavors. There are many other chocolate and banana flavored desserts you can enjoy in restaurants and cafes around Japan, such as chocolate banana cake, chocolate banana parfaits, chocolate banana tarts, chocolate banana pound cake, chocolate banana muffins, and so much more! Summary of Chocolate Bananas at Japan's Food Stalls In Japan, festivals are held throughout the year and it is common to see many food stands and night stalls set up in the area. Chocolate Bananas are one of the most popular items sold at these stands. Costing roughly 300 yen (~$3 USD) each, chocolate bananas are a very affordable and delicious snack. You should definitely try one the next time you come across one at a festival!

Wanna See Me Wrap This Gift? Wanna See Me Do It Again? This video, titled "Speed Wrapping at a Japanese Department Store," shows the staff of an Oban-yaki shop at a department store in Tennoji Ward (天王寺区,Tennoji-ku), Osaka wrapping gifts at blinding speeds. The dexterous hands of the staff don't waste any time. This is what customer service is all about! Let’s dig deeper into the secrets behind the speed wrapping technique of the department store staff. What Kinds of Wrapping Are There? Photo：Gift wrapping All of the techniques you see at 0:05,0:12,0:26,0:39,0:50 and 1:03 in the video, are a method of wrapping called diagonal wrapping. Diagonal wrapping, as its name implies, is a method of wrapping where you set a box-shaped product on the wrapping paper diagonally then wrap it. Diagonal wrapping is also called rotary wrapping because it involves rotating the box as you wrap it. It is also called department-store wrapping because it is a technique used in many department stores. The blinding speeds at which these wrapping pros wrap will leave you wondering if it's even real. Give Speed Wrapping a Try! Photo：Gift wrapping Even a beginner can do the wrapping shown in the video, provided you're not too concerned with speed. First, watch the video to practice the basic diagonal wrapping technique. Diagonal wrapping is surprisingly easy, so knowing how to do it will come in handy when you need to wrap presents. In addition to diagonal wrapping,there's other types of wrapping, such as caramel wrapping and ribbon wrapping as well. Take the time to practice with lots of cute wrapping paper! Summary of Speed Wrapping! Source :YouTube screenshot The one-minute video is filled with the incredible handiwork of these master wrappers. If you're interested in wrapping, you can check out more speed wrapping videos to study different wrapping techniques. If you take the wrapping test and become a certified wrapping technician, you'll be able to work in stores, just like in the video!

Video introduction to the establishment of "MEGA Don Quijote Omori Sanno Store" in Ota-ku, Tokyo "Until Don Quijote is complete（ドン･キホーテができるまで）", produced by "Don Qui Channel", is a video showing the construction of the popular shopping spot Don Quijote. The video shows the flow of until the opening of the MEGA Don Quijote Omori Sannou store, and displays the inside labyrinth-like maze of shelves . It's exciting seeing countless shelves filled with various items. In this article, along with the video, we will introduce Don Quijote, the discount store popular among foreigners. Don Quijote's Unique Theme Song Source :YouTube screenshot What is Don Quijote, with its unique theme song? Don Quijote is a hall which is a very popular discount store, nicknamed "Donki" by the Japanese (short for Don Qui). It has a long history going back about 40 years, when the first Don Quijote Fuchu store opened in Fuchu city, Tokyo in 1980. As of February 2020, there are more than 400 stores in places like Hawaii, California, Singapore, Thailand, and more. The official character is "Don Pen", a stylized penguin. You might have seen it before. In recent years, it has become a popular shopping spot for foreign visitors to Japan, and it is loved as an inbound tourist attraction. Don Quijote's appeal is that there are many types of products and the prices are low. Unusual cosplays are also sold here, and it's a popular shop for finding different fandom goods. When using Don Quijote, we recommend using the “majica” smartphone app for electronic money, so you don't need to worry about carrying a bunch of cash and change. Coupons can also be used from the app, and you can shop at great prices. Popular Don Quijote locations include Shinjuku Kabukicho, Ikebukuro, Shibuya, and Roppongi. The store in the video is the Omori Sanno store, which opened in June 2016. It is VERY large. This store is a family-friendly store called "Mega Don Quijote", and it is a lifestyle-oriented donki that focuses on daily necessities. You can see the start to open of the MEGA Don Quijote Omori Sanno store in the video. First of all, from 0:05 of the video, the furniture is arranged and the goods are displayed. In the video, fixed-point cameras are used to record the sections of various items such as daily necessities, beverages, and clothing being made. Don Quijote Store Interior Source :YouTube screenshot The first time you look inside the Don Quijote store, you'll be surprised at the gap between it and ordinary supermarkets. Many products are displayed, advertising and related products are hung from the ceiling, and it can be a little overwhelming to some. However, it's the desire of the manager for customer to be able to find a bargain, when searching for a product of interest in this jungle of a store. This type of layout is called a "compressed display." Various corners such as party supplies, miscellaneous goods, food, liquor, cosmetics, daily necessities, clothing, leisure goods, interior goods, home appliances, jewelry, brand goods, etc. They've got it all, and tons of it. It is very popular for under-the-radar brands so you can purchase quality products at low prices. In addition, many stores are open for long hours late at night, and shops along the main roads have free parking. Summary of Don Quijote Article Source :YouTube screenshot "Until Don Quijote is made" produced by "Don Qui Channel" is a video of the MEGA Don Quijote Omori Sanno store's sales floor. The process of creating a jungle-like selling area that attracts Don Quijote customers is valuable. If you go to Don Quijote after watching this video, you will have a slightly different perspective than before, now that you know how it's built. Even still, try not to get lost inside this discount palace! 【Official Website】Don Quijote Hall https://www.donki.com/en/?pre=le

Ome Odaiba, Koto-ku, Tokyo "Odaiba VenusFort" Video Introduction This is a 4K video of Odaiba Venus Fort. Odaiba Venus Fort is a shopping center located in Odaiba Palette Town, in Aomi, Koto-ku, Tokyo, in Japan's Kanto region. The inside of the shopping mall features a townscape in a 17th century European style, and on the ceiling a fantastical sky is brought to life. There is a fancy fountain at 1:12 in the video. It is a popular photo spot for Instagram. Please enjoy walking around the mall and be amazed by the extraordinary scenery. How to Enjoy “Odaiba Venus Fort" Source :YouTube screenshot There are three floors of shops in Venus Fort: Venus Family on the 1st floor, Venus Grand on the 2nd floor, and Venus Outlet on the 3rd floor. This shopping center is suitable for families and couples alike due to it having childrens' play areas and amusement facilities such as “Aneby Trimpark,” as well as places like “ASOBIBA Odaiba Venus Fort,” and “CASINO VENUS.” A “ceiling projection mapping” event was held from 2015 to 2016, and it caught the attention of many visitors, making it a popular event. Please check the church area because this is where different events take place. At 2:49 the video introduces the exhibition event called “Team Lab: The Tree of Beckoning Life,” which is an 8 meter tall tree created from an accumulation of light spheres. This art was created by “Team Lab” and held at an Olive hall on the 2nd floor. Restaurants and Cafes at Odaiba Venus Fort Source :YouTube screenshot There are numerous gourmet food spots in Odaiba Venus Fort as well. Spend a quality time at a fancy restaurant, or a cafe at Venus Fort. You can also try some delicious sweets and bubble tea drinks at the food court. You can see the cafe and the restaurant area at 3:06 in the video. Gift shops are also available. They're very popular among both foreign, and domestic tourists. Summary of Odaiba Venus Fort Photo：Odaiba Odaiba Venus Fort is a must-see spot if you are visiting Odaiba. Odaiba Diver City is located within a short walking distance from Venus Fort. Odaiba Diver City is another popular shopping center that has the full-sized Gundam statue, so if you're interested in one, it'd be convenient to stop by the other as well. Please visit the official website to check mall information, as well as information about sales. Odaiba offers various different kinds of entertainment such as hot springs, Fuji TV station, Odaiba Statue of Liberty, Science museum, a beach park, a large Ferris Wheels, LEGO LAND, a Takoyaki museum, and more. It's all of the fun and exciting spots gathered into one area. ◆Odaiba Venus Fort◆(Closed on March 27, 2022) 【Address】1-3-15 Aomi, Koto-ku, Tokyo 135-0064 【Access】Connected directly from Yurikamome Aomi Station, or 3 minutes walk from Tokyo Teleport station 【Hours】Shopping/services from 11:00 am to 9:00 pm Restaurants 11:00 am to 11:00 pm 【Parking】Available (500 yen/Hour, and 250 yen for 30 minutes after an hour. Discounts for shoppers with receipts) 【Phone number】03-3599-0700 【Official Website】Odaiba VenusFort https://www.venusfort.co.jp/multi/index_e.html

The Lively, Tropical Ishigaki City Public Market- The Kitchen of the Island “What the Guidebooks Won’t Tell You About Ishigakijima! Kitchen of the Island! City Public Market!” (ガイドブックでは分からない石垣島！島の台所！公設市場), was created by “Okinawa Katteni Guide.” It introduces Ishigaki City Public Market along with the song, “Nada Sousou” by BEGIN. Ishigaki City Public Market is located inside Euglena Mall (formerly Ayapani Mall), which is a bazaar along Ginza Street. It's in the center of Ishigaki Island. (石垣島, Ishigakijima) This article will introduce the charms of Ishigaki City Public Market, side by side with the video. Enjoy the tropical and lively atmosphere of the market! Introducing Ishigaki City Public Market Source :YouTube screenshot The market is along Chuou Street and inside the shopping district “Euglena Mall. There are supermarkets and izakaya inside the market as well. It's very popular and has a history of more than 100 years. There are street booths along the market selling rare tropical fruits, veggies, local specialties, souvenirs, and more. This can be seen at 0:22 in the video. From 0:51, we see the inside of the market. The first floor sells meats and fish. You can get fresh tropical fish, shrimp, and natural mozuku seaweed at “Manna Sengyoten,” “Kuba Sengyoten” and so on. Source :YouTube screenshot The meat is mainly Ishigaki beef, a specialty of Ishigaki Island. There's also "Chiragar," (smoked pig skin) which can be seen at 1:32 in the video. The Uehara Butcher Shop and Tamashiro Meat Shop are two of the butcher shops in the area. There are also other stores that sell seashells. The magnificent shells make great tropical souvenirs. As seen at 1:47 in the video, there's a shop called “Ishigakishi Tokusanhin Hanbai Center” that sells specialty goods on the second floor. This shop is approved by the Ishigaki Chamber of Commerce. In the spacious shop, there's Shisa pottery, Ryukyu glass, Yaeyama textiles, Angama masks and Ohoho masks of the gods, local beer made on Ishigaki Island, fresh chinsuko, passion fruit drinks, and more! Although not featured in the video, there's a restaurant called “Ichiba Shokudo” on the third floor that serves local cuisine. You can enjoy buying food, souvenirs, and the local flavors all in one area! Information About Ishigaki City Public Market Photo：Scenery from New Ishigaki Airport Observation Deck To get to Ishigaki City Public Market, it takes about 30 minutes by bus and train from Ishigaki Airport. There is no parking at the market itself, but there are parking lots around the market. Hours are from 9 am to 9 pm. Summary of the Ishigaki City Public Market Photo：Okinawa Prefecture, Shisa souvenir “What the Guidebooks Won’t Tell You About Ishigakijima! Kitchen of the Island! City Public Market!,” gives an inside look at the amazing Ishigaki City Public Market. Be sure to watch the video and see the lively market, which has a bazaar-like atmosphere that you normally wouldn't find in Japan. There are a lot of sightseeing spots such as Ishigaki Stalactite Cave, hotels, and beaches around the market as well. Visit Ishigaki City Public Market when you travel to Ishigaki Island! 【Tripadvisor】Ishigaki-jima https://www.tripadvisor.com/Tourism-g14210285-Ishigaki_jima_Ishigaki_Okinawa_Prefecture-Vacations.html

Osaka's American Village, "Amemura"! This video, titled "Strolling in Amemura, Osaka" (大阪 アメ村を散策), shows scenes of Amemura, one of the most vibrant spots for young people, in Osaka's Minami district. American village, commonly known as Amemura (村, "mura" means village in Japanese), refers to the downtown area around Nishi-Shinsaibashi (西心斎橋, Nishi-Shinsaibashi) in Chuo Ward (中央区, Chuo-Ku), Osaka City (大阪市, Osaka-Shi), in Japan's Kansai Region (関西地方, Kansai-Chiho). It's just a 5-minute walk from Shinsaibashi Station, and it's packed with young people and tourists on a daily basis. This article will introduce the history of Amemura, as well as give recommendations on places to visit and things to do in the area! About Amemura Photo：A woman with aviators Osaka's Amemura, featured in the video, was once home to many wealthy merchants in the Edo period (1603-1868 AD). After the 1960s, a coffee shop called "LOOP" was opened here, and young surfers introduced American casual culture to the area. In the 1990s, many shops, such as Tower Records, opened in the area, and the area prospered as the epicenter of trends in the Kansai region. Recommendations for Amemura! Source :YouTube screenshot If you're looking for American casual fashion items in the Kansai area, Amemura is the place to go. In addition to popular vintage clothing and clothing stores, Amemura also has many live music venues. It's a popular destination for art and music as well, making it a hotspot for young people. It's also a great place for tourists to shop for souvenirs, with OPA and Shinsaibashi BIGSTEP offering a wide range of fashion items, Korean cosmetics, and sundries. So it is just perfect for tourists who want to buy souvenirs. Currently, there are approximately 2,500 shops in Amemura. Food and Event Information for Amemura Photo：Takoyaki One of the great things about Amemura is that there are plenty of lunch spots and cafes, and you can enjoy sweets and other delicious food while in the area. The alleyways of Amemura are lined with delicious food, including the famous ikayaki (grilled squid), the Takoyaki restaurant "Koga-ryu Honten," and the original "Ice-Dog" (a hotdog bun filled with soft serve ice cream). You can see some of these shops at 5:20 in the video. We also recommend the bubble tea store "Babytapi," where young people make long lines to get photos for their Instagram. There's also the popular "Sankaku Park" at the center of Amemura. You can see Sankaku Park around 5:10 in the video. A flea market is held in the Sankaku Park area, and there are also exciting performances as well. Summary of Amemura Source :YouTube screenshot Did you enjoy reading about Amemura, the American-themed shopping district in Osaka? This video shows more than 20 minutes of footage from Amemura. There are many hotels that you can stay at at affordable prices near Amemura, so we recommend checking out the area and seeing everything it has to offer! 【Tripadvisor】America Village https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g14127623-d321004-Reviews-America_Mura-Chuo_Osaka_Osaka_Prefecture_Kinki.html

Video introduction of "Basketball Street" in Shibuya Center Street, Shibuya-ku, Tokyo This article focuses on one of the landmarks of Shibuya, "Basketball street"（渋谷の象徴的な通り”バスケットボールストリート”に着目。渋谷駅前交差点からセンター街を散策）. The 4K video navigates us through the famous pedestrian walkway starting from Shibuya Scramble. Shibuya features many shopping attractions such as Inokashira street, Bunkamura street or the Dougenzaka area which is always crammed with people, from shoppers, to teenagers, to tourists. Among them, Basketball street is the central hub for the teenage fashion culture known as "Shibuya Kei"(loosely translated as Shibuya style). The Features of Shibuya Center-Gai Basketball Street Photo：Shibuya Center Street Main Street Shibuya Center-gai Basketball street is a shopping street located in Udagawacho, Shibuya. Walking across the Shibuya Scramble after passing through the hustle and bustle of Shibuya Station Hachiko Exit, you are greeted by the entrance archway of Center-gai Basketball street. In 2011, the main street of Shibuya Center-gai was renamed to Basketball street as part of public safety improvement efforts. The main reason of the name change was to refresh the stereotype associated with the area where juvenile delinquents (known as "Teamer" or "Ganguro") used to roam around in groups. The new name reflects the local aim to develop an ideal, healthy hangout for the youth. The name, however, hasn't really taken off even among Japanese people yet. How to Enjoy Shibuya Center-Gai Basketball Street Photo：109 Shibuya Center-gai Basketball street is probably the busiest street in Japan. Many fashion department stores are lined up in the neighborhood, such as 109, Seibu Department Store, Parco and Tokyu hands. The street consists of a strange mix of shops like fast-food restaurants such as McDonald's, eateries including the ones specialized in ramen or bubble tea, big record stores like TSUTAYA, and entertainment spots catering to teenagers like arcades or photo booth machine stores (known as purikura machines). The Shibuya Scramble appears at the beginning of the video, and from 0:47, viewers are taken to Shibuya Center-gai Basketball street that runs between TSUTAYA and Taiseido Bookstore. Although 9 years has passed since the street was renamed, the entrance archway sign in the video still displays the old name, "Shibuya Center-gai". The video takes for a ride through the lively street. Events at Shibuya Center-Gai Basketball Street! Photo：Watching soccer Shibuya Center-gai Basketball street is filled with energy at the time of event such as Halloween, the New Year Countdown, or during big international sports event such as the World Cup. Some local events like Shibuya Center-gai Nebuta Festival also liven up the area. These events often generate a large amount waste. The local association maintains a clean district through its beautification efforts. The Summary of the Video Introduction of Shibuya Center-Gai Basketball Street Photo：Shibuya Scramble intersection The video introduced in this article portrays the liveliness of Shibuya Center-gai Basketball street. You can explore every corner of the street captured in the video and walk down the streets of Shibuya during your next visit to Japan! 【Tripadvisor】Shibuya Scramble https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g1066456-d4403399-Reviews-Shibuya_Crossing-Shibuya_Tokyo_Tokyo_Prefecture_Kanto.html

Duty-Free Shops in Narita Airport! This video, created by “Traveler’s Factory（成田空港免税店）”, introduces duty-free (tax-free) shops in Narita Airport. Narita International Airport represents international airports in Japan, and is located in Narita, Chiba prefecture. Narita airport consists of three terminals: Terminal 1, Terminal 2, and Terminal 3, and has wide variety of stores. If you are planning to travel abroad or use Narita Airport for sightseeing around Japan, we recommend taking a look at the video to get a feel for the duty-free shops there. What is a “Duty-Free” Shop? Some Benefits of Duty-Free Stores. Photo：Duty-Free Shop Duty-free shops, which are shown in the video, are stores where people can purchase items at a price exempted from customs or sales tax in order to encourage consumption outside of Japan. Therefore, we mostly see these kinds of stores at airports or in busy shopping districts. One of the best benefits of duty-free shops is that we can get items at a cheaper price without sales tax. For example, you can buy alcohol and tobacco at prices exempt from alcohol and tobacco taxes, as well as sales tax. This means you can get these items for a cheaper price than at ordinary retail stores in Japan. Why are Duty-Free Shops Tax Exempt? Photo：Duty-Free Shop All the items are at duty-free shops are tax exempt because the Japanese sales tax system cannot be applied at international airports; International airports do not belong to any country. In addition, these items are regarded as “exported goods” to be used outside of Japan. Japanese people can also enjoy shopping at duty-free shops in Japan; If they are at the airport for international departures, they can purchase items after departure procedures. They are also asked for their passports when making a purchase. If you see stores with a sign saying “Duty-Free Shop” or “Tax Free Shop,” you can buy tax-exempt items. What Kind of Duty-Free Shops are there in Narita Airport? Source :YouTube screenshot In Narita Airport, most people go to either Terminal 1 where ANA is in service, or Terminal 2 where JAL is in service. In both terminals, there are some duty-free shops selling brand-name products such as Tiffany & Co., Dior, Louis Vuitton, and Chanel, where you can buy designer wallets, bags, watches, and so on. From 0:37 in the video, you can see signs of some popular shops such as: “Dior,” “GUCCI,” “GIORGIO ARMANI,” “HERMES,” and “CHANEL.” You can also see the cameraman purchasing a Chanel perfume at 2:17. At Narita Airport's duty-free shops you can shorten your pre-departure shopping by using the “pre-order” or “mail order” services. You can pre-order the items you want before even going to the airport! Each shop has different opening hours, but most shops open at 7 a.m. and close at 9 p.m. You might also see some duty-free shops when returning to Japan from foreign countries. Some of these shops sell foreign spirits and perfumes, and you can buy brand-name products at tax-exempted prices. It's much more affordable to buy expensive products you can rarely get, at these stores. At duty-free shops, a wide variety of items such as food, cameras, electronics, watches, and even traditional Japaneses crafts are popular among foreign visitors, . Precautions when Using Duty-Free Shops Photo：Tourist However, there are some precautions you need to bear in mind when using duty-free shops. First, you are not allowed to open or use tax-free items before leaving Japan; These are sold to be consumed outside of the country. Moreover, because these tax-free items are treated as “exported goods,” it is prohibited to use them within Japan. If you are foreign visitors from outside of Japan, you can also use the “Okinawa Regional Duty-Free Shop System” to buy some items at duty-free shops in cities like Akihabara. In this case, it’s also prohibited to use your tax-free items before leaving Japan. In extreme cases it’s possible that you may be asked to pay taxes when you leave the country. If you follow the guidelines listed above though, you'll have nothing to worry about! In addition, if you plan on using a flight connection overseas, you have to be careful when purchasing tax-free alcohol and tobacco; the amount of alcohol and tobacco you can bring into each country is different. Moreover, in some countries, the items you bought at duty-free shops are treated as imported items. In this case, it’s possible that you will be asked to pay tariffs. That being said, before buying tax-free items, we recommend checking the laws in the country you are going to. Overview of Duty-Free Shops in Japan Source :YouTube screenshot Today we introduced a video on duty-free shops at Narita Airport and tax exemption there. Unfortunately, some Japanese people probably think that they cannot buy items at these kind of stores before departures. If you have a chance to visit international airports in Japan, like Narita Airport in this video and Kansai Airport in Osaka, please try visiting the duty-free shops they have! 【Official Website】 Narita International Airport Official Website https://www.narita-airport.jp/en/ 【Tripadvisor】 Narita International Airport (NRT) https://www.tripadvisor.com/Airport-g298161-qNRT-Narita_Chiba_Prefecture_Kanto.html

Introducing "Kappabashi Dougu Street"! “Kappabashi-Dori - Tokyo - かっぱ橋道具街 - 4K Ultra HD” is a video that gives a brief overview of Kappabashi Dougu Street in Asakusa, Tokyo. In order for restaurants and specifically Japanese restaurants to operate, pottery bowls, dishes and kitchen utensils are indispensable. Many food and beverage staff and chefs active in the suburbs of Tokyo purchase tools for sale at Kappabashi Dougu Street (Kappabashi Tool Street/Kappabashi Kitchenware Street). This video shows the scenery of Kappabashi Dougu Street. There is no background music, it is not a flashy video, but you can see the real state of the city, and it is a video that gives the illusion that you are really shopping at Kappabashi Dougu Street. What Is Kappabashi Dougu Street? Photo：Kappabashi Kappabashi Dougu Street is located in the area called Kappabashi, between Asakusa and Ueno in Taito-ku, Tokyo. It is said that the tool street, that extends for about 800 meters north-south, has "everything related to cooking and kitchen equipment." Located near Tokyo Sky Tree and Sensoji Temple (浅草寺, Sensoji), it is a popular spot for tourists as well as chefs. Tokyo Sky Tree, a popular tourist attraction in Tokyo, can be viewed from 3:51 in the video. In 2003, in commemoration of the 90th anniversary of Kappabashi Dougu Street, a statue of Kappabashi Kawataro with a Kappa motif was created and it is cherished as a great photo spot. From 6:51 in the video, you can see the Kappabashi Kawataro Statue shining in all its golden glory. What Kind of Shops Can You Find on Kappabashi Dougu Street? Photo：Fake food In Kappabashi Dougu Street, there are Asai Shoten, confectionery stores, a field kiln that handles Japanese dishes and lacquerware, a kitchen world TDI that handles knives and kitchen knives, a professional pack that handles packaging supplies, Takamura cans, and an S-CUBIC that handles commercial furniture. There are also shops and fake food shops that are introduced at 0:41 in the video. In addition to Western dishes and cutlery, there are also shops that sell cooking utensils such as frying pans, pots, sushi tubs, commercial ingredients, chef jackets, kitchen equipment, and showcases. These shops can be found throughout the video. Which store did you like the most? Summary of Tokyo's Kappabashi Dougu Street Photo：Kappabashi Kappabashi Dougu Street is featured in the video and is one of Japan's best tool streets with over 100 years of history. On the lively Kappabashi Dougu Street, the "Kappabashi Tool Festival" is also held after "Tool Day" on October 9. The Kappabashi Festival is a recommended event for those who want to get quality, affordable cooking utensils. There are many restaurants and cafes where you can enjoy lunch in the Tokyo Asakusa area with many sightseeing spots, so please feel free to enjoy your time sightseeing as well. ◆Tokyo Kappabashi Dougu Street◆ 【Operating Hours】From 9:00 to 17:00 (except some stores) 【Access】5 minutes walking from Tokyo Metro Tawaramachi Station, 6 minutes walking from Iriya Station, 5 minutes walking from Tsukuba Express Asakusa Station 【Closures】Almost all shops are open on weekdays, about 10% on weekends and about 70% on Sundays and holidays 【Official Website】Kappabashi Dougu Street Official Website https://www.kappabashi.or.jp/en/index.html

Video about introducing Hakodate morning market in Hokkaido 「The "Hakodate Seafood Market-Japanese Gastronomy（函館海鮮市場 - 日本美食）" produced by "Aden 小吃" is a video that introduces the Hakodate Morning Market, a popular tourist spot in Hakodate. There are various famous stores such as fresh seafood, local specialties, and restaurants where you can eat delicious rice. And, it is one of the top sightseeing spots in Hokkaido, which is irresistible for gourmet lovers. You can buy souvenirs such as fresh products and processed products, and enjoy delicious gourmet foods and lunches at this fish market / large market. This article introduces the charm of Hakodate’s Morning Market in Hokkaido, which is visited by many customers early in the morning. What is Hakodate’s morning market? Photo：Hakodate・Cuddlefish angling What is Hakodate Morning Market in Hokkaido? Hakodate Morning Market, located in Hakodate, Hokkaido. It is a popular morning market dotted with shops selling fresh seafood and various restaurants. In the video, you can see crabs, squid from the beginning, tuna from 5:22, and popular seafood such as scallops from 11:42. We sell not only seafood but also fruits and vegetables such as melons, delicacies such as salted squid, dried foods and processed foods. Hakodate’s Morning Market in Hokkaido is also popular as a gourmet spot, and we recommend "Hakodate Morning Market Donburi Yokocho Market" where you can enjoy popular ramen such as "Kamome", various seafood bowls, and the popular "Sakaeya" restaurant. Other popular items include “live squid sashimi”, “geso roasted ice cream”, “local fruit juice” and “salmon toba”. We also recommend squid fishing at the famous fish cage, which you can see at 2:43 in the video. The squid caught in the "Live squid fishing pond" will be cleaned on the spot and made into sashimi so you can enjoy very fresh squid. We recommend watching the video closely as they show the cleaning process very clearly. The History of Hakodate’s Morning Market in Hokkaido Photo： Hakodate Morning Market After the war, vegetables were sold in a small section of the square out front of Hakodate station. After that, it was relocated 3 times and became the current location. Many stores were damaged by the tsunami caused by the Great East Japan Earthquake, but they immediately resumed operations with the help of volunteers. In 2013, the Oshima Sosai Agricultural Cooperative Dome was demolished, and in 2014 a space for the Hakodate morning market was created. Today's Hakodate morning market has about 250 stores, and about 1.5 million tourists visit each year. Access is a 2-minute walk from JR Hakodate Station or Hakodate City Tram, Hakodate Station. Summary of introductory articles on Hakodate’s Morning Market, Hokkaido Photo：Hakodate King Crab "Hakodate Seafood Market-Japanese Gastronomy" produced by "Aden小吃" is a video introducing the charm of Hakodate’s Morning Market in Hokkaido. The Hakodate Morning Market, which has a long history since the war, is a popular spot where various ingredients are sold. In addition to fresh seafood, there are many excellent gourmet dishes such as ramen, melon and more. There are many items that can be purchased as souvenirs, such as dried fish and processed products. So please drop by Hakodate’s Morning Market and enjoy shopping, as well as popular sightseeing destinations such as Mount Hakodate in Hakodate City. ◆ Introduction of Hakodate Morning Market ◆ 【Address】 9-19 Wakamatsucho, Hakodate City, Hokkaido 040-0063 【Access】2 minutes walk from JR Hakodate Station, Hakodate City Tram Hakodate Station 【Operating Hours】6:00～ 【Parking】There is a coin parking lot nearby 【Telephone No】0138-22-7981 【Official Website】Hakodate Morning Market Official Site https://www.uu-hokkaido.com/corporate/hakodate-asaichi.shtml

Video introduction of a stroll at IKSPIARI in Maihama, Urayasu City, Chiba Prefecture This is a 4K video that explores Ikspiari in Maihama, Urayasu, Chiba, in Japan's Kanto region. Ikspiari is a shopping center located in Tokyo Disney resort in Maihama. There are 9 different zones and about 140 stores in Ikspiari. It opened in 2000. Access to Ikspiari is convenient as it is located just outside JR Maihama station and also has easy access from the Disney Monorail as you can see in the beginning of the video. Be sure to watch the video and enjoy the stroll through Ikspiari. What Kind of Place Is Ikspiari? Source :YouTube screenshot Ikspiari has a total of 9 zones each with a distinct theme. "The Courtyard" and "Garden Site" on the first floor, "Trader's Passage," "Museum Lane," "Trail & Track," "Theater Front," and "B' Way" on the second floor, "Gracious Square," on the third floor and "Chefs' Row" on the 4th floor. Ikspiari offers a variety of different, extraordinary atmospheres. If you want to get a good look at some of them, be sure to watch the video exploring Ikspiari and see things like a Port town in the style of Southern Europe (from 0:50), a classic American style town with a neon lights (from 2:51), and modern metallic design (from 3:58). Enjoy Gourmet Food and Shopping at Ikspiari There's more than just shopping in Ikspiari too. There's a movie theater, restaurants, cafes, and bars as well. Stop by the popular cosmetic stores and the Disney Store to check out all the cute items. The food court is a great place to grab a bite to eat. Roti’s house is the perfect place to enjoy some craft beer as well. Recommended Places at Ikspiari Source :YouTube screenshot There are 16 different theaters at "Cinema Ikspiari" which is introduced in the video at 3:47. It is the largest movie theater in Japan. Besides the movie theater, there are convenience stores, Uniqlo, a roof-top garden, gift shops, Purikura (Photo booth), and a Radio satellite studio called "Studio Ikspiari." Make sure to check out Celebration Plaza to see if there are any events as well. The roof-top garden, "Garden Site," shown in the video at 10:24, is a popular area where you can rest and see 1930’s American Hollywood themed Disney Ambassador hotel. Summary of Ikspiari Source :YouTube screenshot Ikspiari is a shopping mall full of entertainment. It is directly connected to Tokyo Disney resort and you can enjoy shopping and gourmet food there. It is a must-see spot if you are visiting Tokyo Disneyland or Tokyo DisneySea. ◆Outline of IKSPIARI◆ 【Address】1-4 Maihama, Urayasu, Chiba 279-8529 【Opening Hour】10:00 am to 11:00 pm 【Closures】None. Open year round. 【Access】Right outside of JR Maihama Station 【Parking】Available (Approx 1800 spots) 【Phone Number】047-305-2525 【Official Website】Ikspiari｜ Discovery Is Just Around the Corner https://www.ikspiari.com/en/

Video introduction of "Osu Shopping Street" in Nagoya City, Aichi Prefecture, where 1,200 stores are gathered. This video, titled "Osu Shopping District - Nagoya - Aichi - 4K Ultra HD" (Osu Shopping district - Nagoya - Aichi - 大須商店 - 4K Ultra HD), was uploaded by "TokyoStreetView-Japan The Beautiful." Located in the center of Nagoya, Aichi, in Japan's Tokai region, the Osu Shopping District flourished roughly 400 years ago during Japan's Edo Period (1603-1868 A.D.) as the gateway to Osu Kannon, a Buddhist temple in in Nagoya belonging to the Shingon Sect of Buddhism. Today, the Osu Shopping District is home to stores selling anime/manga, maid cafes, and stores selling computers and other electronics, and it has even come to be called the sacred ground of Nagoya's otaku culture and subcultures. Be sure to watch the video as you read along to experience the atmosphere of the Osu Shopping District! The video is about 8 minutes long, and you can see the cameraman walking around the Osu Shopping District. It'll make you feel like you're actually strolling the streets of Osu! Highlights of the Osu Shopping District! Photo：Niomon Street, Osu Shopping District, Nagoya The Osu Shopping District is a shopping center with a number of streets intersecting in an area of about 700 meters east to west and 500 meters north to south. There are many shopping streets in the Osu Shopping District, each with its own unique characteristics. Niomon Street (仁王門通り, Niomon Dori) and Higashi Niomon Street (東仁王門通り, Higashi Niomon Dori), located on the southernmost side of the Osu Shopping District, are lined with a variety of restaurants. You can see the Higashi Niomon Street shopping district from 1:45 in the video. There are also many restaurants that serve exotic cuisines, such as Brazilian and Taiwanese, giving the street a unique "hodgepodge" feel. Osu Kannon Street (大須観音通り, Osu Kannon Dori) and Banshoji Street (万松寺通り, Banshoji Dori), which run through the center of the shopping district, are the main streets of the Osu Shopping District. There are many restaurants as well as the Osu Engeijo (大須演芸場, a performing arts theater), live music venues, and second-hand clothing stores, and the area is crowded with many shoppers. Akamon Street (赤門通り, Akamon Dori), located on the north side of the Osu Shopping District, is densely packed with computer stores and electronics stores, giving it an atmosphere similar to Akihabara. The charm of the Osu Shopping District is the "hodgepodge" atmosphere that visitors feel when shopping there. While there are restaurants and eateries where you can eat and drink, there are also pachinko parlors and small game centers, making it a place loved by tourists and locals alike. The Osu Shopping District Has Tons of Events! Photo：A lively festival on Higashi Niomon Street, Nagoya The Osu Shopping District is a great place to enjoy unique stores, but it also hosts a variety of events. In particular, the World Cosplay Summit, which has been held since 2003, is an internationally popular event. Cosplayers from all over the world compete in qualifying rounds representing their respective countries, all heading to the Osu Shopping District for this global event. In addition, various events are held on each street of the Osu Shopping District. On the 18th and 28th of every month, the "Osu Kannon Antique Market" is held. Similarly, on the 28th of every month, "Akamon 28 Festival" is held on Akamon Street, and "Daikoin Myoo-san Ennichi Fair" is held at Daikoin Temple (大光院). Also, in winter, the "Fureai Plaza" in the Osu shopping district and Shintenchi Street (新天地通り, Shintenchi Dori) are decorated with illuminations to welcome shoppers. Summary of the Osu Shopping District The Osu Shopping District, loved not only by tourists but also by locals, is now also a venue for world-famous events. The Osu Shopping District is lined with stores of various types, where you can enjoy gourmet lunches and strolls, entertainment, such as street performances, and anime and manga stores that promote otaku culture. It's truly an amazing shopping area worth a visit. There are also stores selling Korean goods and vintage clothes, shops selling hitsumabushi (a local specialty of Nagoya), shaved ice, Mont Blanc and other sweets, and old stores with a long history, souvenir shops, and shrines and temples, such as Banshoji Temple, making it a place where everyone from children to adults can have fun. The Osu Shopping District is also accessible by car, but there is no parking available, so you'll have to use the payed parking lots around the area if coming via car. Make some unforgettable memories at Osu Shopping District, a shopping center located in the center of Nagoya! 【Official Website】Osu Shopping District Official English Website http://inbound.nagoya-osu.com/en/ 【TripAdvisor】Osu Shopping District https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g14134979-d2007506-Reviews-Osu_Shopping_Street-Osu_Naka_Nagoya_Aichi_Prefecture_Tokai_Chubu.html

Video introduction of a stroll through the Atami Nakamise Shopping Street in Atami City, Shizuoka Prefecture This video is titled “Introduction to Atami Nakamise Shopping Street（熱海 仲見世商店街 紹介動画）” and it was created by “Atami Nakamise Shopping Street.” Atami is a popular resort since it is easy to get to from Japan's Kanto region. There are many retro and nostalgic views in Atami, as you can see in the video. In front of the station, is Heiwa Street, the Hellos Atami Building, and ATAMIX. You can go shopping, eat the local food and look for souvenirs. There's also a foot bath in front of the station, so you can feel like you've stepped into a hot spring resort as soon as you come out of the station. Let’s explore the attractions of Nakamise Street in Tawarahoncho, Atami, Shizuoka. Recommended Spots and Popular Food! Source : YouTube screenshot Nakamise Street starts from “Lusca” which is built within the station grounds. The video shows shops, hotels and a view of Nakamise Street. The shops sell "kamaboko" (dried fish), seen at 1:29 in the video, as well as "satsuma-age" (fried fishcakes) and "iso-age" another type of seafood. Some of them have been in business for 70 years and you can buy local food such as rice crackers and hot spring manju which is shown at 0:54 in the video. Hyakunen Youkan is a popular sweet sold by “Honke Tokiwagi”; a long-established Japanese sweets shop. Atami pudding is also popular among instagrammers, due to its photogenic nature. There are also restaurants and cafes for sushi and other types of seafood. Sightseeing in Atami! Photo：Kinomiya Shrine We highly recommend going sightseeing around Atami station, while visiting Atami. Some good places include the MOA Museum of Art, Kinomiya Shrine(来宮神社, Kinomiya Jinja), Akao Herb and Rose Garden, Kiunkaku, Izusan Shrine (伊豆山神社, Izusan Jinja), Atami Plum Garden, Atami Trick Art Museum, Atami Sun Beach, Atami Castle and the statue of Omiya and Kan-Ichi. We recommend taking the Atami ropeway to Mt. Hachiman (八幡山, Hachiman Yama) and admiring the scenery as well. Also be sure to check out some of the events in Atami, like Hatsushima's fireworks display and the Atami Sea Fireworks display. A Stroll Through Atami Summed Up Source :YouTube screenshot There are many shops on Atami Nakamise Shopping Street, where you can find local food and delicious sweets. Be sure to grab a map before strolling around Atami Nakamise Shopping Street as it will make your time in Atami much more easily navigable. The average time spent on Nakamise is about two hours. Checking the map and planning out where you want to go beforehand is great way to make sure you don't get overwhelmed by the crowd. There are cheap parking lots around the street as well, so keep that in mind if you plan on going by car. 【TripAdvisor】Atami Ginza Shopping District https://www.tripadvisor.com/ShowUserReviews-g298122-d19121792-r736995457-Atami_Ginza_Shopping_District-Atami_Shizuoka_Prefecture_Tokai_Chubu.html

Introducing Shibuya 109! This video, titled "Shibuya 109 Walk - Tokyo - 渋谷 109," is a 4K introductory video showing the inside of Shibuya 109, a popular place among Japan's youth. Shibuya 109 is a shopping mall, also referred to as "Marukyu." There are many shops selling women’s clothing, shoes, beauty products and accessories, as well as costumes for cosplays. This video shows you around the inside of Shibuya 109. The amazing 4K quality will have you feeling like you're actually in the shop. Be sure to look at all of the fashionable shops shown in the video! Shibuya 109: History and Origins Photo：109 Shibuya 109 is a fashion building that opened in 1979, managed by Tokyu Malls Development. Besides the main store in Shibuya, there's also stores in Abeno Osaka, Kagoshima, and Hong Kong. The secondary name "Marukyu" comes from the last two numbers of 109; '0' pronounced "maru" and '9' pronounced "kyu" in Japanese. Deemed a "mecca for high school gals," many young girls visit Shibuya 109 everyday. It's not just for young people living in Tokyo, either. It's also a famous sightseeing spot for school field trips in Tokyo, as well as foreign tourists. The Shops of Shibuya 109 Source :YouTube screenshot At Shibuya 109, there are fashion items for both women and men, including shoes, fancy goods, cosmetic items, lingerie, swim wear, and places for taking "purikura " photos. There's plenty to do, so you'll never get bored. Besides fashion brand shops, there's also many cafes and restaurants as well. You can see the restaurants in the video from 9:43. Mogumogu stand, where you can enjoy trying food at various restaurants, is especially popular among young women. Many girls visit here to buy tapioca and strawberry candy that look great on Instagram. The beauty salon inside Shibuya 109 is very popular among women as well. At Shibuya 109, temporary pop-up stores, including collaborations with popular artists and Pokemon, appear from time to time as well, so be sure to keep your eyes peeled for them. In front of the entrance to Shibuya 109, facing the scramble crossing, there is an event space called 109 Square. This places gets packed with young people during events. Summary of Shibuya 109 Photo：109 On the official Shibuya 109 website, you can check out the floor guide, and also find information on sales and events. There is also an official mail order service, so you can enjoy shopping online as well. If you're interested in Japan's "Kawaii" or "gal" cultures, be sure to stop by Shibuya 109! Don't forget to watch the video to experience window shopping at Shibuya 109 as well! ◆SHIBUYA109 General Facility Information◆ 【Address】29-1, Dogenzaka 2 chome, Shibuya-ku, Tokyo 【Access】A 3 minute walk from JR Shibuya Station 【Hours】Shopping 10:00-21:00, Cafes and restaurants 11:00-23:00 【Closures】None 【Parking】None 【Phone number】 03-3477-5111 【Official website】SHIBUYA109 https://www.shibuya109.jp/

Video introduction of "Togoshiginza Shopping Street" in Toyomachi, Shinagawa-ku, Tokyo This time, we introduce the popular Togoshi Ginza shopping district, that has been featured in a number of magazines and t.v. programs, through a video called "Walking around Togoshi Ginza-Tokyo - Togoshi Ginza Shopping Street-4K Ultra HD" (Walking around Togoshi Ginza - Tokyo - 戸越銀座商店街 - 4K Ultra HD). This video will have you feeling as if you're actually taking a stroll through the popular shopping district located in Toyomachi, Shinagawa. This camera is fixed from the cameraman's point of view, making it an almost virtual reality experience. The History of the Togoshi Ginza Shopping District Photo：Togoshi Ginza Station The name Togoshi Ginza comes from Togoshi Ginza Station on the Tokyu Ikegami Line. Togoshi Ginza street is an old shopping district that grew around the stores concentrated around Osaki in Shinagawa, due to the opening of the Tokyu Ikegami Line in 1927. Today, it goes by the name Togoshi Ginza Shopping Street, and is made up of three shopping street associations: Togoshi Ginza Shoeikai Shopping Street, Togoshi Ginza Shopping Street, and Togoshi Ginza Roku Shopping Street. There are about 400 shops. It's also famous as Japan's longest shopping street with a total length of 1.3 kilometers. Nowadays, there are many shopping streets in Japan called "〇〇Ginza" (pronounced Maru Maru Ginza), but the one on Togoshi-Ginza shopping street was actually the first in Japan. It's located next to Togoshi Ginza Station on the Tokyu Ikegami Line, but there's also the JR Yamanote Line's Gotanda Station within walking distance, so it' s easy to get around. You can see the Tokyu-Ikegami Line railroad crossing at 10:32 in the video. The restaurant is crowded with businessmen and housewives at lunchtime on weekdays. Togoshi Ginza Station- More History Photo：Tokyo downtown from above Besides the origin of Togoshi Ginza's name, there's also the origin of the shopping district itself. This actually has to do with the Great Kanto Earthquake of 1923. The unprecedented catastrophe caused devastating damage in a large area from downtown Tokyo to Hiratsuka, Kanagawa Prefecture. At that time, the Shinagawa area was an industrial zone where many people gathered, but after the Great Kanto Earthquake, people who had lost their homes gathered here to start businesses a resurrect the local economy, thus forming the shopping district. The "Ginza" part of "Togoshi Ginza" is said to have originated around the time that shops began to gather in the Togoshi area, when locals gathered up the brick debris in Ginza and used it to improve the drainage of the once poorly drained streets of Togoshi. Things to Do on Togoshi Ginza Shopping Street Source :YouTube screenshot The best way to enjoy the Togoshi Ginza shopping street is by munching on snacks as you window shop. In the Togoshi Ginza shopping district, there's bakeries, Togoshi Ginza croquette, ramen, dumplings, fried chicken, popular cafe sweets, taiyaki, pork rice bowl, pork wrapped rice ball skewers, and more. For souvenirs, there's a ton of local gourmet foods such as Togoshi Ginza brand confections, donuts, and the sweets of Goto Kamaboko shown at 1:35 in the video. There are also convenience stores, pharmacies, clothing stores, cafes and supermarkets. On holidays, get a map in one hand and food in the other and browse the streets of Togoshi Ginza while munching on some delicious food. We pretty much recommend anything in Togoshi Ginza, as nearly every shop has good reviews. Summary of the Togoshi Ginza Shopping Street Photo：Togoshi Ginza Shopping Street The Togoshi Ginza shopping street, chosen as one of the top shopping districts in Japan, also has its own homepage as well! The mascot character Ginjiro Togoshi gives a detailed introduction of the shopping district, including opening hours of shops, nearby hotels, parking lots, tour information, and more. The Togoshi-Ginza shopping district has also introduced a project to eliminate the need for electrical poles, with the aim of becoming a clean, fun, popular shopping arcade that will continue to develop into the future. 【Official Website】Togoshi Ginza Shopping Street Official Site https://www.togoshiginza.jp/en/ 【Tripadvisor】Togoshi Ginza Shopping Street Official Site https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g1066854-d6536297-Reviews-Togoshiginza_Shopping_Street-Shinagawa_Tokyo_Tokyo_Prefecture_Kanto.html

Video introduction of "Tsukiji Outside Market Monzeki Dori" in Chuo-ku, Tokyo The video “A view of Monzeki Street in the Tsukiji Outer Market（【街並み】築地場外市場 もんぜき通り）,” introduces Monzeki Street in the Tsukiji Outer Market. Monzeki Street is a shopping avenue in the Tsukiji Outer Market located in Tsukiji, Chuoku, in Tokyo. The original Tsukiji Wholesale Market moved to Toyosu Market in October 2018, but the Tsukiji Outer Market is still open in the same location in Tsukiji even after the original Tsukiji Market moved. The street is located on the north side of the Ichibabashi intersection, along the Tsukiji 4-chome and 6-chome Shin Ohashi Street between the Tsukiji 4-chome and Shijoubashi intersections. There are over 30 shops on the street, and it is the most popular sightseeing spot at the Tsukiji Outer Market. The name of the street “Monzeki” comes from the Monzeki Bridge that used to be in Tsukiji. Explore the Popular Tsukiji Monzeki Street Source :YouTube screenshot There are a lot of restaurants that are originally for people who work in the Tsukiji Outer Market, so many restaurants serve quick delicious lunches with a stand-and-eat style. The shopping avenue is an arcade and close to Ginza. People enjoy a variety of food from different food stands as they walk along the streets. There are also many kinds of restaurants, such as ramen restaurants, seafood restaurants, coffee shops, and restaurants featuring cheap and delicious food. Well-Known Stores/Restaurants on Monzeki Street Source :YouTube screenshot There are well-known sushi restaurants and many other famous shops on Monzeki street. Here, we'll introduce a few of them. The first one, shown at 0:37, is Kitsuneya, a restaurant that specializes in offal meat. Their specialty is "Hormone-Don," a bowl of beef offal cooked using their signature red miso sauce over rice. The ramen restaurant Inoue, which you can see in the video around 2:04, is a famous ramen restaurant in Tsukiji. Inoue has been in business for 50 years. Unfortunately, it is currently closed due to a fire (as of July 2020). In the video you can see a line of people waiting at Inoue; not an uncommon sight with how popular the restaurant is, Also, the ramen restaurant Wakaba (in the video around 0:23) is famous in Tsukiji as well. The curry restaurant Sakaeya next to Wakaba is an amazing curry restaurant, and our personal recommendation. The Tsukiji Outer Market is known for its Kaisendon (seafood bowls). Maguro Donburi Segawa is THE place for Kaisendon. You can see it in the video around 0:25. Their only menu, a bowl of tuna marinated with homemade soy-sauce-based sauce, is so delicious it was featured on the popular TV show "Ado Machikku Tengoku." Photo：Tamagoyaki Some of the best tamagoyaki restaurants in Tokyo are located on Monzeki street, including Marutake, the home of TV producer and personality Terry Ito, as well as Tsukiji Yamacho, Tsukiji Shoro and Daisada. Maguro no Miyako is famous for its grilled seafood. Their fresh seafood and grilled scallops are to die for. Sightseeing at the Tsukiji Outer Market Photo：Tsukiji Outer Market Monzeki street, at the Tsukiji Outer Market, is also popular among tourists from overseas. There is the information center "Platt Tsukiji" that introduces tourist destinations for international visitors. They also distribute a map of the Tsukiji Outer Market as well as other information. They also have a coin locker where you can leave your baggage and walk around the Tsukiji Outer Market. You're not allowed to carry a suitcase on Monzeki Street so the facility is very convenient for people coming directly from overseas or out of town. Let’s Visit Tsukiji Outer Market's Monzeki Street! What'd you think? We introduced a lot of famous restaurants at the Tsukiji Outer Market. There's places that are great not just for sightseeing, but also for dates or just walking around and trying food vendors. Enjoy the atmosphere of the Tsukiji Outer Market through the video! Other than restaurants, there are also vegetable stands, clothing shops, and dried fruit shops on the street so you can enjoy browsing around and hunting souvenirs. 【Tripadvisor】Tsukiji Outer Market https://www.tripadvisor.com/ShowUserReviews-g14129610-d1373675-r716204248-Tsukiji_Jogai_Market-Tsukiji_Chuo_Tokyo_Tokyo_Prefecture_Kanto.html

Shibamata Teishakuten, Katsushika-ku, Tokyo Video Introduction This video, titled "Walking Around Shibamata, Tokyo - Long Ver.｜4K" (Walking around Shibamata, Tokyo - Long Take【東京・柴又/帝釈天】 4K), was uploaded by "NIPPON WANDERING TV." It's a video that will make you feel like you're actually walking along the Shibamata Taishakuten approach from Shibamata Station. Shibamata Taishakuten, located in Shibamata, Katsushika, Tokyo, was founded in 1629 during the Kan'ei Era. At the beginning of the Edo Period (1603-1868 AD), the location of the main statue of Shibamata Taishakuten was unknown, but it was discovered during the renovation of the main hall and is enshrined there to this day. Katsushika Shibamata is also known as the place where the movie "Otoko wa Tsuraiyo" was set, and the Tora-san Memorial Museum is a nearby tourist attraction. The video, which lasts about 12 and a half minutes, will take you on a guided tour through Shibamata, including the Shibamata Taishakuten approach and Shibamata Tashakuten itself. The relaxing atmosphere will have you feeling as though you've traveled back in time to the days of Tora-san, so be sure to check it out! Shibamata Taishakuten – A Look at the Sightseeing Spot Introduced in the Video Photo：Shibamata Taishakuten, Katsushika, Tokyo Shibamata Taishakuten is a Nichiren Sect temple with its official name being Daikyo-ji Temple. Access to Shibamata Taishakuten is about a 3-minute walk along the temple approach, which is lined with shops, from Shibamata Station on the Keisei Line. Paid parking is also available nearby. The video tour begins at Shin-Shibamata Station on the Hokuso Line, starts along the temple approach from Shibamata Station, and enter the precincts of Shibamata Taishakuten at 6:09. From about 5:30 in the video, you can see Nitenmon Gate, a structure with a simple, yet impressive wooden appearance. The front of Taishakudo, located to the left side of Shibamata Taishakuten's main hall, is covered with a large Japanese black pine, called "Zuiryu no Matsu." There is also a gallery on the wall of the Taishakudo where you can see wonderful sculptures depicting the Lotus Sutra. Behind the main hall is the large guest hall, where you can observe the Japanese garden Suikeien (邃渓園) from the corridor. To the right of the main hall is Shakado (aka Kaisando), the oldest hall on the temple's precincts. After visiting, you can also get a shuin stamp, a talisman to protect yourself from evil, or even a talisman for safe childbirth. The opening hours for Shibamata Taishakuten are from 5 am to 7 pm. Enjoy Delicious Food on the Approach to Shibamata Taishakuten! Photo：The approach to Shibamata Taishakuten, Katsushika, Tokyo The path to Shibamata Taishakuten is lined with stores with a nostalgic Japanese atmosphere. You can see this in the video from 2:46. The first thing that you see in front of the station is the statue of Futen no Tora. Along the temple approach, there's also a souvenir shop called Shibamata Tamaya. There are also stalls selling takoyaki (octopus dumplings), and many visitors enjoy purchasing kusadango (mugwort dumplings) from the popular Takagi-ya (高木屋老舗), an old shop on the approach to Shibamata Taishakuten. Shibamata is also famous for delicious cuisine using river fresh. Consider trying some unagi (eel) for lunch at the long-established restaurant Kawachiya! There are many other exciting retro shops along the approach to the temple, and you can enjoy delicious food while exploring them, or just by window shopping. Summary of Sightseeing at Shibamata Taishakuten This video, titled "Walking Around Shibamata, Tokyo - Long Ver.｜4K" introduces the charms and attractions of Shibamata Taishakuten and the approach leading to the temple. Be sure to check out the Showa Retro cityscape, which is visited by many people. We hope you enjoyed this article introducing information on Shibamata Taishakuten. If you're planning on visiting, don't forget to use this as a reference to explore the downtown area where you can feel the warmth and character of Tora-san! 【TripAdvisor】Shibamata Taishakuten https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g1066447-d1239469-Reviews-Shibamata_Taishakuten_Taishakuten_Daikyoji_Temple-Katsushika_Tokyo_Tokyo_Prefect.html

Gachagacha (capsule toy) video introduction on the 1st floor of Akihabara Station in Tokyo's Chiyoda Ward The video “[4K] Akihabara Station, Capsule toys, Gacha Gacha (September 16, 2019)”（【4K】秋葉原駅・カプセルトイ・ガチャガチャ（2019年9月16日））introduces a lot of "Gashapon" or "Gachapon" (capsule toy vending machines) on the first floor of Akihabara Station. You won't know what the product inside is until you open the capsule, which is really exciting for children, and even adults. In the past, it was common to see three to four capsule-toy vending machines at the corners of supermarkets or candy shops. Now, there are special shops such as "Gacha Gacha Forest" and "Gacha Gacha Kingdom." You'll often see tens of the latest and most popular capsule toy-vending machines lined up. This article introduces Gashapon. What are Gashapon? Capsule Toys? And What's With the Name? Photo：Turning a Gashapon The history of Gashapon is long. They started in 1964, the year of the first Tokyo Olympics. As of 2020, it has been a long lasting historical business for 55 years. Gashapon are vending machines that contains capsules with various different kinds of toys. A fixed amount of coins is slotted into the machine and the lever is turned, after which a random toy pops out. With its long history, there are various names depending on times and regions, such as "Gacha Gacha," "Gacha," "GachaPon," "GashaPon," "P cup," and so on. These names can be categorized according to the manufactures. "Gacha Gacha" and "GachaPon" come from BANDAI and "Gacha" from TAKARA TOMY ARTS. Due to trademarking, "capsule toys" is the formal name. These names are important for the sellers. However, we, the consumers, are free to call it what we want of course. The Charm of Gashapon Variety! Source :YouTube screenshot When it comes to Gashapon capsule toys, the variety is definitely what attracts most people. There are many once-dominant products catching many children’s hearts. Trading cards, bouncy balls, erasers of supercars or Kinnikuman (muscle man) are a few among them. There are several varieties of the same kind as well, so it's fun to collect them. This video introduces capsule toys vending machines with a complete set displayed in a case on them. You can see the quality products right before your eyes and you may not be able to stop yourself from put in just a little more... Vending machines selling cards and stickers are also shown from 0:45 in the video. These days, there are many Gashapon at Narita Airport. They are very popular among visitors from abroad. At first, they were installed so that the unused coins left over from tourists sightseeing in Japan would have a use. Now, more and more tourists buy them as Japanese souvenirs. Summary of Japan's Gashapon Photo：High School Girl Opening Her Gashapon The video this time introduced Gashapon vending machines on the first floor of Akihabara Station. Nowadays, local goods and toys to make your own Gacha goods are sold in the machines, so although the idea is old, they've remained quite popular to this day. They range from major items like quality miniature toys and figurines to eccentric items such as pill bugs and public telephones. New products pop up every day, keeping people coming back for more. If this article has you interested in Gashapon, be sure to save some of your pocket change for Gashapon vending machines!

PR Video for the Sugamo Jizo Dori Shopping Street, a Famous Tourist Spot in Toshima-Ku (豊島区: Toshima Ward) This video called “What kinda place is Sugamo? Strolling through the Jizo Dori Shopping Street - 4K 50fps（巣鴨ってどんな街？地蔵通り商店街をぷらっと散歩 -4K 50fps）” is produced by “ PlaT JAPAN Ch. ( ぷらっとNIPPON : PlaT JAPAN Ch.) ” to promote the Sugamo Jizo Dori Shopping Street which has many places to eat as well as female clothing shops. It can be accessed from JR Sugamo Station (巣鴨駅: Sugamo Eki) to the old Nakasen-do Road (旧中仙道: Kyu Nakasen-do). The nostalgic feel and distinct atmosphere of this shopping street is popular with not only Japanese people, but also among foreign tourists. You can see famous tourist spots or food spotting information in this video. This 10 minute video shows the street from Kogan temple (高岩寺:Kogan-ji) to Koshinzuka - station (庚申塚 : Koshinzuka), the last stop of the Toden Arakawa-line Streetcar. You can feel the lively atmosphere in this street. What Is the Sugamo Jizo Dori Shopping Street? Source :YouTube screenshot The Sugamo Jizo Dori Shopping Street in Toshima-ku, Tokyo has flourished since the mid Edo period. The first inn town of the Nakasen-do Road starting from Nihonbashi was located around Sugamo Station. Sugamo is famous as “Grandma’s Harajuku” because many old people visit this town. An on-the-street interview with elderly people is frequently conducted in this area. The access is 5 minutes on foot from Sugamo Station on the JR Yamanote Line, and on the opposite side of the shopping street is Koshinzuka Station off the Toden Arakawa Line. There are many parking lots and accommodations around this shopping street. You can visit there by car as well. Photo：Togenuki Jizo, Kogan-ji There are famous souvenir shops and tourist spots such as Kogan-ji, well-known as “ Togenuki Jizo” and relocated from Ueno in 1891 to Sugamo Jizo Dori Shopping Street. Visitors can’t see the Gohonzon (the main object of devotion) of Togenuki Jizo because it is treated as a hidden Buddhist secret, but it is said that if you pray to its divine spirit, that its image will be transferred to a paper and you will receive good luck. Also there is the “Arai Kannon” in the Kogen-ji. It is said that if a person praying washes an affected part of the body of this Kannon, the affected part of that persons body will be cured. In addition, Shinsho-temple (眞性寺 : Shinsho-ji) is another famous temple in this street. The “Zizo son fair” is held in this shopping street on days ending in 4 (4th, 14th, 24th) . There are many shops and flea markets on this street as well. More people visit this street than usual on a fair day, so be sure to check what days you're going on. Recommended Shops on Sugamo Jizo Dori Shopping Street Photo：Sugamo's Shichimi stand There are many delicatessens or sweet parlors in the Sugamo Jizo Dori Shopping Street. You can enjoy the “Fried horse mackerel” of “Tokiwa Shokudo” where there is always a long line outside during lunch time, “Shio Daifuku" (rice cake stuffed with salt seasoned bean jam) made by Mizuno, the “Bean jam buns” of Kifukudo, “Rice cakes” made by Raisindo, and plenty more for you to try. Also there are many female clothing retail shops in the Sugamo Jizo Dori Shopping Street. “Maruji” is particularly famous for red underwear that are sold as a good luck charm. The Sugamo Jizo Dori Shopping Street is also a well known power spots. Tamaya Sugamo that sells power stones and natural stones, is familiar to many people. “Sugamon no oshiri” placed at the entrance of the Sugamo Jizo Dori Shopping Street is the mascot character of this street. It is said that if a person touches the backside of this mascot character, they will have success in love. Summary of Sugamo Jizo Dori Shopping Street Source :YouTube screenshot You can feel what the Sugamo Jizo Dori Shopping Street is like in the video “What kinda place is Sugamo? Strolling through the Jizo Dori Shopping Street - 4K 50fps” . Also you can see the old familiar band of musical sandwich men in this video (2:21). The map of this shopping street into which all shops are included is available on the web site of the Sugamo Jizo Dori Shopping Street Promotion Association. Please visit Sugamo Jizo Dori Shopping Street with that map in a hand. 【Official Website】Shopping Street Promotion Association https://sugamo.or.jp/en/ 【Tripadvisor】Sugamo Jizo-dori Shopping Street https://www.tripadvisor.com/ShowUserReviews-g14134309-d1373813-r377821031-Sugamo_Jizo_dori_Shopping_Street-Sugamo_Toshima_Tokyo_Tokyo_Prefecture_Kanto.html

Misaki Morning Market in Kanagawa Prefecture This is a promotional video titled “Kanagawa Prefecture, Miura City Tourism PR, (Misaki morning market)”（神奈川県三浦市観光PR「三崎朝市」）,” featuring the morning market in Miura, Kanagawa prefecture. Misaki Morning Market (三崎朝市, Misaki Asaichi) is very popular in that you can get local food, including fresh seafood, around Miura Peninsula, at a great price. The sales start at 5 a.m. every Sunday, but shoppers gather in front of the market as early as 3 a.m.! From 0:37 in the video, you can see the store selling pieces of local Misaki tuna at crazy low prices. Usually there is a long line in front of the store from 4 a.m, and sometimes all the merchandise is sold out as soon as the sales begin. What is Misaki Morning Market? Source :YouTube screenshot Misaki Morning Market, near Misaki Fishing Port (三崎漁港, Misaki Gyoko), is an event certified as the “local resource” by Kanagawa prefecture. It opens every Sunday. The market is so popular that it even attracts tourists outside of the city. Many people bring their pets with them as well. The market has seasonal local fish and seaweed, as well as local vegetables, eggs, and fruits. You can see this from 1:01 in the video. In 2019, the national morning market summit "2019 in Misaki Asaichi" was held there, and many tourists came to visit it. Special Deals and Shop Information of Misaki Morning Market Photo：Tuna Sometimes a sale called “Iki Iki Sale” is held. At this sale you can buy freshly caught fish at bargain prices. Also, Miura Tsunanosuke, the local character in Miura city, sometimes appears in the market, so definitely keep an eye out for him. After looking around the stores in the market, you can also drop by the market cafeteria “Misaki Asaichi Shokudo,” which is quite popular. You can try some dishes that are perfect for breakfast, such as Soba (buckwheat) noodles, tuna soup, and tuna rice bowls. You can even try Kurobatei’s rice bowl with tuna and galbi, Korean style short rib. This rice bowl called “Maguro Galbi Rice Bowl (まぐろカルビ丼, Maguro Galbi Don)” is very popular and actually won the grand prize in the local Gourmet contest “M-1.” At the smoke farm, you can also get freshly grilled sausages that are cooked to order. Summary of Misaki Morning Market Photo：Misaki Morning Market As you can see in this video, the vibrant atmosphere is the best characteristic of Misaki Morning Market. Many stores open in this market, so it’s easy to find what you're looking for. You can go to the market by train, but keep in mind that it opens before the first train starts to run so there's a chance you'll miss out on some specials. If you really want to get what you're looking for, it’s better to drive to the market if you can. ◆Misaki Morning Market Information◆ 【Address】5-3806 Misaki, Miura-shi, Kanagawa, Japan 【Hours】Open from 5 a.m. 【Access】A short walk from Keikyu Misakiguchi Station 【Parking】Yes 【Number】+81-(0)46-881-4488 【Official Website】Misaki Asaichi https://misaki-asaichi.com/ 【Tripadvisor】Misaki Asaichi https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g1021284-d8181258-Reviews-Misaki_Asaichi-Miura_Kanagawa_Prefecture_Kanto.html

露店商・直次郎包丁による啖呵売の紹介動画 こちらの動画は「Muzina Shanghai」が公開した「2019年版今宮十日戎、名物露店 堺・直次郎包丁の啖呵売」です。 啖呵売（たんかばい）とは、露店で商品を叩き売りするときに話す口上のことをいいます。 直次郎包丁が注目されるのは、この包丁屋さんが度肝を抜くような実演販売をするところ。 動画では0:28から、包丁で木の板を切る様子が紹介されています。 今回は堺・直次郎包丁の紹介動画を元に、昭和感漂うちょっとディープな日本を紹介しましょう。 露店商が集まる今宮戎神社の十日戎 大阪市浪速区にある観光名所のひとつ、今宮戎神社。 毎年正月になると今宮十日戎、通称「えべっさん縁日」が開かれ、境内には露店がたくさん出店します。 「えべっさん」とは、七福神の恵比須天のこと。 天下の台所として賑わう大阪は、商売繁盛を司るえびす神信仰が今も厚く、親しみを込めて恵比須天を「えべっさん」と呼んでいるのです。 ちなみに、えびす宮の総本山は兵庫県西宮市にある西宮神社。 ここは毎年正月になると福男選びレースを行い、全国的にニュースで話題になる神社でもあります。 露店・直次郎包丁の啖呵売 動画では冒頭から直次郎包丁の啖呵売が紹介されています。 啖呵売とは、映画「男はつらいよ」に出てくる主人公・寅さんが露店で叩き売りしているシーンがわかりやすくイメージできるのではないでしょうか。 啖呵売の醍醐味は露店店主との値引きの駆け引きです。 直次郎包丁でも「安いよ、安いよ」と呼び込みをし、一方でお客さんも値引き交渉を負けじと行っています。 動画では1:30からお客さんとの値段交渉が始まっていますが、こうしたコミュニケーションも露店の面白さといえますね。 堺は刃物の名産地 直次郎包丁がその名に冠している堺という地は、刃物の名産地でもあります。 とくに堺産の和包丁は有名で、プロの料理人が使う包丁の多くが堺産の刃物なのです。 和包丁は刃がすべて鋼でできている全鋼製が特徴です。 定期的に研ぎを入れるなどメンテナンスが必要で、手間がかかりますが切れ味のよさは維持できます。 今では手入れが簡単で錆びにくいステンレス製包丁が普及し、全鋼製の包丁を家庭で見かけるのも少なくなってきました。 こうした全鋼製の包丁は通販でも購入できます。 露店商・直次郎包丁による啖呵売紹介まとめ 動画でご覧になれる堺・直次郎包丁のような啖呵売をする露店商は数を減らしています。 昔ながらの趣を残す直次郎包丁の啖呵売は、古き良き日本の歴史を伝える貴重な文化とも言えますね。 皆さんも露店巡りをしてみるのはいかがでしょうか。

Japan's Amazing Vending Machines! The video we’ll introduce this time is titled "Japanese Vending Machines are AWESOME 日本の自販機すごい！！" It introduces some of the awesome vending machines you can find throughout Japan! The vending machines shown in the video can only be found in Japan, so be sure to check them out! The Vending Machines in the Video! Photo：Digital signage As you can see from 0:26 in the video, many of the vending machines placed in Japanese stations can accept not just cash, but train cards (electronic money such as Suica, etc.) as well. You can purchase coffee, tea, and juice just by tapping your card against the vending machine, so there's no need to carry any bothersome change. Japanese vending machines sell cold drinks, and in the winter there are hot drinks as well. This is a unique characteristic of Japanese vending machines that you won't find in other countries. A vending machine at Akihabara station is introduced at 2:05 in the video as well. This vending machine has a touchscreen and the description of each drink is displayed on the screen. There's also a vending machine for ice cream shown at 2:35 in the video. Features of Japan's Futuristic Vending Machines Photo：Vending machine Vending machines are handy machines where you can purchase a drink at the push of a button. The drinks are cheap too, costing only about 100-160 yen. Japan is said to be the vending machine superpower of the world, and there are about 2.56 million vending machines in Japan, which generate a whopping 2.2 trillion yen annually. They’re placed in various places throughout towns, and places like stations and offices, so you can grab a drink whenever you like. Types of Vending Machines and the History of the Vending Machine Vending machines were invented in Japan more than 100 years ago in 1890. Thereafter, from the Showa period (1926-1989) to the Heisei period (1989-2019), the types and provided services of vending machines continued to evolve. In recent years, there are even vending machines where you can purchase hot meals that include things like Takoyaki, and there are also vending machines that are used to take orders and dispense tickets at restaraunts. You can even get train tickets with vending machines. There are a fixed set of rules regarding the location and height of Japan’s vending machines, and they are placed according to these safety standards. Summary of Japan's Vending Machines Photo：Vending machine This article introduced talked about the different types of vending machines that can be found throughout Japan, and how to buy products from them. The functions of vending machines continue to evolve year after year and there are an increasing number of them making it more convenient to get what you need, and it's even gotten easier to pay thanks to things like electronic money. The vending machines that Japanese people use in their day to day lives are often seen as amazing futuristic devices. If you're planning on visiting Japan, be sure to keep your eyes peeled for some amazing vending machines!

Video Introduction of "Toda" Candy Store in Fukaya City, Saitama Prefecture This video, titled "[Japan's Old-Time Dagashiya] A Look at Toda in Fukaya, Saitama" (【昔ながらの駄菓子屋さん】埼玉県深谷市 の 「とうだ」ってどんな所？), was released by "Donna tokoro? TV" (どんな所?TV). "Dagashiya" are something that many of those who were born in Showa era Japan are familiar with. Dagashi are inexpensive snacks made and sold for children. They're essentially the equivalent of penny candy in the U.S. Each product is small and sold in small portions, many of them costing only 5 to 30 yen each. This makes it possible for children to buy them with their allowances. Many of the snacks come with extras or winning "lottery" tickets, and if you ever experienced this kind of candy culture as a kid you know how much fun it was. In this article, we take you inside Japan's "Dagashiya," the once popular hangouts for children. Be sure to follow along with the video as it explores "Toda," a Showa retro dagashiya in Fukaya (深谷市, Fukaya-Shi), Saitama (埼玉県, Saitama-Ken), in Japan's Kanto Region (関東地方, Kanto-Chiho). The History of Japan's Dagashi Photo：Dagashiya Do you know where the name "dagashi" comes from? It's actually a term that refers to all sorts of sweets made with unrefined brown sugar. Since refined white sugar and granulated sugar were expensive raw materials back in the day, it's said that making dagashi started as an attempt to reduce the cost of materials as much as possible and to make snacks using unrefined brown sugar that common people and children could eat with a sense of security. Because of this, dagashi became very popular among children, and it's said that during the Edo period (1603-1868 A.D.), many candy shops specializing in dagashi were established in various towns. Variations on the term "dagashi" also increased, and it became common to refer to inexpensive sweets for children as dagashi, in addition to sweets made with brown sugar. These are the roots of today's dagashiya shops. Let's take a look at some traditional dagashi. ・Sendai-dagashi Nowadays, it's considered a high-class Japanese sweet, but in the Edo period, it was a popular snack for the common people. Misopan (Miso bread) and karumera-yaki are typical Sendai sweets. ・Kokusen, Kankan-bo A typical roasted grain candy made from soybeans, sesame, and soybean flour. ・Kuro-bo A chunky textured, bread-like pastry made from flour, brown sugar, and eggs. ・Fu-chan A kind of fugashi (dried wheat gluten coated with sugar made from sugarcane). ・Karume-yaki Today, it's less common to see them at food stalls at festivals, but they're a type of dagashi with nice crunchy texture. Karumera-yaki from Sendai is the same thing. Photo：Konpeito ・Konpeito A very venerable confectionary that even the Imperial family has a custom of distributing during celebrations. As white sugar became more affordable, dagashiya stores began to carry it as well. ・Tirol Choco A prominent product that's still popular in dagashiya today. ・Umai-bo Considered an ace-class dagashi. ・Yotchan-Ika (Seasoned Squid) An excellent snack for drinks. ・Kyabetsu-Taro A popular snack that is now sold in convenience stores as part of a renewed boom in dagashi. There are a lot more popular dagashi, such as ・POTATO FRY ・Fruit-Mochi ・Tara-Tara-Shitenja-neyo (Fish paste chips) The Dagashi Sold at Toda, a Dagashiya in Fukaya, Saitama. Photo：Dagashiya The dagashi store in Fukaya, Saitama, shown in the video, has been run by one woman by herself since its opening. The appearance of the store is that of a dagashiya that was a familiar place for children to hang out during Showa era Japan. The store's name paint is now faded, and the red tent curtain on the roof, a symbol of a dagashiya, has also faded, but the entrance is lined with many gacha-pon machines, and the store is filled with nostalgic snacks, ice candies, toys, and stationery. The world may change but this sweets shop keeps on doing what it always has - selling candy. The video shows some of the most popular dagashi items that have been loved by children throughout the years. For those in their 40s and older, these items are a reminder of the good old days! They include Kamayaki Santaro, super ball lottery, medaka-chan game, candies, Maburu-gum, bubble gum, "Cola ball" (Coke Jell-O), yogurt, Choco-bat-Ace (home run bar), "lotteries" (if you win, you get snacks or toys), and more! However, the times have changed, now Reiwa era. However, the times have changed, and the wrapping paper of the candy is now printed with characters such as Fukka-chan, a mascot character, or characters from popular TV anime, clearly reflecting the current times. "Toda" is still a popular dagashi store where adult customers visit with their children. Summary of Japan's Dagashiya, the Once Popular Hangouts for Kids Photo：Kawagoe Candy Alley, Saitama Prefecture From the end of the Showa period to the Heisei period, the dagashi industry temporarily declined, and the number of dagashiya stores decreased drastically. Instead of dagashiya stores however, mass merchandisers (such as Niki's Confectionery, Kobe Bussan, etc.) that sell assorted dagashi in large quantities have become popular on retro shopping streets such as Ameyoko in Ueno. This has sparked a revival in dagashi. Besides these stores, self-service all-you-can-eat Dagashi-Bars or Dagashiya-Bar are also becoming popular. In these bars, you can enjoy a wide variety of delicious snacks, such as okaki (rice crackers) and surume-ika (squid), which go great together with drinks. In Kawagoe (川越市, Kawagoe-Shi), Saitama, there's "Dagashiya Yokocho" (Candy Alley) lined with dagashi manufacturers and wholesalers, making it a highly popular tourist spot in Saitama. The popularity of dagashi is still strong online, and there are even dagashi stores that specialize in online shopping! Consider experiencing the nostalgia of Showa Japan with the delicious dagashi of Japan's good-old days!