Learn How to Make Delicious Camping Rice With a Mess Kit in This Video! This video, titled “Cooking Rice with a Mess Kit” (飯ごうでご飯を炊こう), was uploaded by “Yamanakako Village Tourism Division” (山中湖村観光課). The camp ground introduced in the video is Sonei Yamanakako Camping Ground, located at the foot of Mt. Fuji. The video shows how to cook rice in a mess kit using meltwater from Mt. Fuji. When going camping, try bringing a mess kit to make your own camping meals. How to Cook Rice With a Mess Kit Mess kits are aluminum cookware often used by soldiers or when camping to cook food. As you can see in the video, they can also be used to cook rice! A typical mess kit in Japan has an outer lid and an inner lid which can be used to measure rice. First, wash the rice and add an appropriate amount of water to the mess kit. Wash-free rice is useful when you don’t have enough water to wash the rice (or just don’t feel like washing it). The correct way to cook rice is to let it soak up water for about 30 minutes and then put it over the fire. Cook the rice over low to medium heat until it comes to a boil, and then reduce the heat to low. Make sure to pay attention to time and heat level. After cooking the rice, turn the mess kit upside down and let it steam for 10 minutes. This can be seen at 3:11 in the video. Tips to Make the Most of Your Mess Kit While Camping In Japan, basic camping goods can be purchased at 100-yen shops such as Daiso all across the country. A digital scale or measuring cup are useful for measuring rice, water, and other ingredients precisely. Also, be sure to prepare ample food and necessary tools, including tinder and plates. If you want to reduce the aluminum smell of the mess kit, you can cook the rice using the water you used to wash it. There are many different types of cookware that you can use when camping, so be sure to look for what suits your needs best. Summary of Cooking Rice With a Mess Kit If you remember the steps shown in the video, you can enjoy delicious rice when camping. Mess kits are also useful for making arranged recipes, such as jambalaya and oden. You can rent a mess kit at the Sonei Yamanakako Camping Ground shown in the video, so be sure to make a reservation if you want to enjoy a fun camping experience.

Okuzure Suisenkyo, Chiba Prefecture: Video Introduction This video, titled [HD] Chiba Prefecture, Kyonan 'Okuzure Suisenkyo' Daffodil Garden | Famous Flower Spot in Peak Season" (［HD］千葉県・鋸南町「をくづれ水仙郷」Daffodil Garden　花の名所 花見頃), was uploaded by "Discover Nippon." Kyonan, located on the Boso Peninsula in Chiba prefecture, is home to two famous daffodil spots - Okuzure Suisenkyo, (lit. Okuzure Narcissus Township) and Ezuki Narcissus Road, (江月水仙ロード), earning it a place as one of the "Top 3 Daffodil Colonies in Japan." The name "Okuzure" (をくずれ, sometimes romanized as "wokuzure") uses an unconventional spelling and is said to come from a dialectical pronunciation of local place name "Okuzure" (大崩, おくずれ, romanized as "okuzure"). Okuzure Suisenkyo, is a colony of daffodils stretching from Sakuma Dam's lakeside to the Okuzure area. Nurtured by an abundance of natural light, the gorgeous sight of the pretty, white daffodils blooming along the river makes this a superb sightseeing location. Between late December and late January (the peak of the daffodil season) a yearly "Daffodil Festival" (水仙まつり, suisen matsuri) is held at Okuzure Suisenkyo, At night there are illuminations, giving the festival a different atmosphere compared to daytime. Be sure to take a look at the mystical scenes produced by the daffodils blooming along the lakeside in the video. [Video] 0:00 - Sakuma Dam Lakeside Area Daffodils What Makes Okuzure Suisenkyo, Special? When to Visit? Photo：Daffodils at Okuzure Suisenkyo The town of Kyonan in Chiba Prefecture is listed alongside Awaji Island (淡路島, awaji-shima) of Hyogo and Fukui's Echizen Coast (越前海岸, echizen kaigan) as one of the "Top 3 Daffodil Colonies in Japan." Encompassing around 2.2 kilometers of land, the space between Sakuma Dam and the Okuzure area is known as Okuzure Suisenkyo, and is best visited between late December and late January, when the area is covered in daffodils as far as the eye can see. With every rice paddy in the area being of the terraced variety, the embankments that make up this beautiful scenery and the slopes at the mountain's foot provide rich soil for some 60 million daffodils over a vast area of approximately 12 acres. During the peak season at Okuzure Suisenkyo, from mid-December to mid-January, a direct delivery service is offered to ship daffodils nationwide so that people can enjoy the elegant flowers and fragrance of daffodils at home. In January of each year, when the daffodils are at their best, Okuzure Suisenkyo, and Ezuki Narcissus Road play host to the Daffodil Festival, complete with illuminations. 　[Video] 0:00 - Sakuma Dam Lakeside Area Daffodils 　[Video] 2:07 - Sakuma Dam Lakeside Ezuki Narcissus Road, a Popular Hiking Trail + Daffodil Festival Illuminations, Events, and More! Source :YouTube screenshot Minamiboso is known for its warm climate, as expressed by an old saying "You don't need a single piece of underwear once you crest Mt. Nokogiri." Even during fierce winters with their westerly winds (westerlies in Japan bring cold air from Siberia over the country), thanks to a distribution of high pressures in the west and low pressure to the east inland, temperatures in the area remain relatively mild. Thanks to these weather conditions, daffodils from Kyonan are deeply scented and grow very tall. Okuzure Suisenkyo, and Ezuki Narcissus Road are popular daffodil spots in Kyonan. Okuzure Suisenkyo is a 2.2-km area stretching from the Sakuma Dam area to the Okuzure area. Ezuki Narcissus Road refers to a road in the Ezuki area fringed for 3 kilometers on both sides by daffodils. A 30–40 minute walk each direction, the road is a popular hiking trail. Enjoy a stroll accompanied by a lovely view and the welcoming scent of the daffodils blooming along the road. Each year in January, just as the daffodils begin to bloom, the Daffodil Festival is held at Okuzure Suisenkyo, and Ezuki Narcissus Road, attracting large numbers of tourists. During the daffodil festival a variety of activities are available, including "mochitsuki" (a Japanese tradition of pounding rice into a stretchy, sticky confection known as "mochi"), vegetable stores open, and events, such as stamp rallies, take place as well. At the shops lining the road, visitors can purchase daffodils in addition to the vegetables for sale. Sakuma Dam Park located on Ezuki Narcissus Road is the stage for a light show at night-time, and the daffodils appear to rise up out of the night, making for an ethereal spectacle. [Video] 1:47 - Daffodils and Illuminations Enjoy Cherry Blossoms in Spring at Sakuma Dam Lake Park Photo：Kawazu cherry blossoms at Sakuma Dam Lake Park Located on the shores of Sakuma Dam's reservoir lake, Sakuma Dam Lake Park (佐久間ダム湖親水公園, sakuma damuko shinsui koen) is known not only for its daffodils, but for its cherry blossoms too. Between early February and early March the Yoritomo cherry blossoms (also known as Kawazu sakura) bloom, followed by Yoshino cherries from late March to early April, and multi-layered cherry blossoms (八重桜, yae-zakura) from mid to late April, with a "Yoritomo Cherry Blossom Festival" (頼朝桜まつり, Yoritomo Sakura Matsuri) and "Cherry Blossom Festival" (桜まつり, Sakura Matsuri) being held accordingly. Be sure to enjoy mountain dyed pink by the beautiful cherry blossoms in spring. In the vicinity of Sakuma Dam, the daffodils start to bloom as early as December, and as the season comes to an end in February the early-blooming Yoritomo cherry blossoms begin to flower, making it possible to experience a rare duet of daffodils and cherry blossoms. You can enjoy flowers at Sakuma Dam Lake Park at their best from winter, when the daffodils bloom, right through the cherry blossom season in the spring. Okuzure Suisenkyo, Chiba Prefecture: Roundup The "Daffodil Festival," held at one of the "Top 3 Daffodil Colonies in Japan," Okuzure Suisenkyo, and Ezuki Narcissus Road, have highlights aplenty, offering not only gorgeous views of daffodils, but also illuminations, and a variety of other events. A field of daffodils stretching as far as the eye can see would make a pretty good phone background to keep as a reminder of this year's winter. Don't you think? 【TripAdvisor】Narcissus Road

Taga Taisha Shrine's Setsubun Festival: Video Introduction This video, titled "Good Sign 12th Broadcast: The Taga Taisha Shrine Setsubun Festival" (Good Sign 第12回放送 多賀大社節分祭), was uploaded by "Good Sign." The Setsubun Festival is held every February at Taga Taisha Shrine in Taga, Shiga, in Japan's Kansai region. This article will introduce "Oni no Mai" (鬼の舞, Dance of Demons) and the throwing of lucky beans and rice cakes. Setsubun is an essential event in Japanese culture. Through the Setsubun Festival at Taga Taisha Shrine, visitors can learn the meaning of Setsubun's bean-throwing custom. Check out this 4-minute video showing the charms of Taga Taisha Shrine's Setsubun Festival. What Is Setsubun? The Traditional Japanese Event and When It's Celebrated Photo：Setsubun oni masks and mamemaki Setsubun means "division of the seasons," and refers to the day before the first day of spring, summer, autumn, and winter. Since the Edo period (1603-1868 A.D.), the day before "Risshun" (立春, the first day of spring) has been called Setsubun. In the old calendar, Setsubun fell on New Year's Eve, which was meant to drive away evil spirits and welcome in a good year before the New Year. Mamemaki (豆まき) is a ritual in which an oni (Japanese ogre demon) appears and people throw beans at it while shouting "Oni wa soto, Fuku wa uchi!" (鬼は外福は内, Demons out, luck in!). It's a popular event at kindergartens and nursery schools in Japan. It's also customary for Japanese families to eat "ehomaki," a thick sushi roll commonly made with 7 types of ingredients inside, representing the 7 Lucky Gods. It's believed that it's best to sit facing the lucky direction for the year (the direction of the god Toshitoku, who is in charge of the year's blessings), and sit quietly while eating. It's also customary to eat as many beans as one's age plus 1. Setsubun is often thought to be held on February 3, but in some years is held on the 2nd or 4th because Risshun (the first day of spring) sometimes changes. The God of Taga Taisha Shrine Photo：Taga Taisha Shrine, Shiga Prefecture Taga Taisha Shrine is the largest shrine in Shiga Prefecture, and is known as Otaga-san. There are two sayings, "Oise Mairaba, Otaga e Maire" (If you visit Ise, visit Otaga), and "Oise, Otaga no Ko Degozaru" (I am Ise, child of Taga). The second saying is derived from the fact that Taga Taisha Shrine is dedicated to Izanagi and Izanami, the parents of Amaterasu, the deity of Ise Jingu, giving the shrines a parent-child relationship. Taga Taisha Shrine is also believed to be the god of longevity and marriage, and a protector against evil. Visitors to the shrine can enjoy seasonal scenery, such as beautiful weeping cherry blossoms in spring and the autumn leaves of Okushoin Garden, which is associated with Toyotomi Hideyoshi. Taga Taisha Shrine is also a tourist attraction with many other points of interest, such as a sacred tree called Sanbonsugi located on the site where Izanagi is said to have descended from the heavens, Jumyoseki (the Stone of Longevity), a white stone on which you can write your prayers and offer to the shrine, and Otaga-jakushi, a replica of a ladle made for Empress Gensho when she was ill. Oni Dances & Bean and Rice Cake Throwing – Highlights of Taga Taisha Shrine's Setsubun Festival Source :YouTube screenshot The highlight of the Setsubun Festival is the "Oni no Mai" dance by the Shimane Prefecture Inbara Kagura Troupe. Three oni (demons) appear accompanied by the sound of taiko drums and flutes. They glare at the audience with frightening expressions as they perform the dance, creating a powerful scene! [Video] 1:51 - Oni no Mai The two priests gradually drive the demons to the edge of the corridor and exterminate them while scattering beans and shouting "Oni wa soto, Fuku wa uchi" (Demons out, luck in!). This is a ritual to drive away evil spirits that bring bad luck. After the demons are gone, beans and rice cakes are thrown from the stage by participants who share the same zodiac sign as the current year. [Video] 3:00 - Lucky Beans and Lucky Rice Cakes Being Thrown Zodiac Signs + Lucky Bean and Rice Cake Throwing: A Once-In-A-Lifetime Experience! The lucky bean and rice cake throwing experience is for participants who share the same zodiac sign as the current year that will also turn 60 in that year. It's a unique, once-in-a-lifetime experience. An orientation session is held in advance. The application deadline is mid-December of the previous year. The service fee to participate is as follows 32,000 yen for one person, 42,000 yen for couples. A prayer fee, group dinner, group photo, and souvenirs such as fans are also included. ※Details based on the 2021 event. If you have family members who will celebrate their 60th birthday, maybe gift them with the chance to participate! Summary of Taga Taisha Shrine's Setsubun Festival Taga Taisha Shrine is a 10-minute walk from Taga Taisha-mae Station on the Ohmi Railway. Shiga Prefecture boasts a variety of tourist attractions, including Taga Taisha Shrine, Hikone Castle, and more. If you're planning a trip in February, be sure to add a Setsubun Festival to your itinerary!

Setsubun, a Japanese Tradition: Video Introduction This video, titled "Setsubun Trivia - Why Soybeans? What Are the Meanings of Mamemaki and Ehomaki?" (節分の豆知識　～なぜ大豆？豆まき・恵方巻の意味とは？～), was uploaded by "Tokai Voices Channel" (東海ヴォイスちゃんねる). 今回こんかいは、『東海とうかいヴォイスちゃんねる』さん制作せいさくの『節分せつぶんの豆知識まめちしき　～なぜ大豆だいず？豆まめまき・恵方巻えほうまきの意味いみとは？～』という動画どうがを紹介しょうかいします。 What is Setsubun? The Meaning of the Japanese Tradition 節分せつぶんって何なに？日本にほんの伝統でんとう行事ぎょうじの意味いみ Photo：A calendar showing February（写真しゃしん：2月にがつのカレンダーかれんだー） Setsubun is a Japanese tradition to celebrate the changing of the seasons. 節分せつぶんとは、季節きせつの移うつり変かわりを祝いわう日本にほんの伝統でんとう行事ぎょうじです。 The word Setsubun (節分) means "division of the seasons." 節分せつぶんという言葉ことばは、「季節きせつの分わかれ目め」という意味いみがあります。 In modern Japan, Setsubun is often held on February 3rd, the day before "Risshun" (立春), or the first day of spring. 現代げんだいの日本にほんでは、節分せつぶんは「立春りっしゅん」の前日ぜんじつである2月3日にがつみっかに行おこなわれることが多おおいです。 The History of Setsubun 節分せつぶんの歴史れきし The history of Setsubun goes back more than a thousand years. 節分せつぶんの歴史れきしは1000年せんねん以上いじょう前まえにさかのぼります。 As Setsubun means "division of the seasons," it wasn't always just once a year. 「季節きせつの分わかれ目め」という意味いみの節分せつぶんは、昔むかしは年とし1回いっかいではなく、 Setsubun used to take place between the changing of each of Japan's four seasons. それぞれの季節きせつの分わかれ目めに行おこなわれていました。 Furthermore, the western calendar only started being used relatively recently in Japan, and Setsubun was actually held on different days in the past. さらに、日本にほんで西暦せいれきが使つかわれるようになったのは比較的ひかくてき最近さいきんのことなので、昔むかしは節分せつぶんが別べつの日ひに行おこなわれていました。 The day before the first day of spring is called Setsubun, and in the past, Setsubun had the same meaning as New Year's Eve today, as it marked the transition to a new year. 立春りっしゅんの前日ぜんじつを節分せつぶんと言いい、昔むかしは新あたらしい年としに変かわる境目さかいめとしていたため、節分せつぶんは現代げんだいの大晦日おおみそかと同おなじ意味いみを持もっていました。 Setsubun – Bean Throwing & Oni 節分せつぶんの豆まめまき・鬼おに Photo：A family enjoying mamemaki（写真しゃしん：節分せつぶん：の豆まめまきをする家族かぞく） In the past, people believed that illnesses and disasters at the change of seasons were brought in by demons (oni), so events began to be held to ward off evil spirits. 昔むかしの人ひとは、季節きせつの変かわり目めの病気びょうきや災害さいがいは鬼おにが呼よび込こむと思おもっていたため、魔除まよけけの行事ぎょうじが行おこなわれるようになりました。 Starting from the Muromachi Period, people began to perform "mamemaki," which involved throwing soybeans to banish demons. 大豆だいずを投なげて鬼おにを追おい払はらう「豆まめまき」が行おこなわれるようになったのは室町時代むろまちじだいからです。 The reason why beans were used is because the word bean (豆, mame) and "Extermination of evil" (魔滅, mame) are pronounced the same in Japanese, and soybeans were thought to have spiritual power. 豆まめを使つかうのは、「豆まめ」と「魔滅まめ」（魔まを滅めっする）が同おなじ発音はつおんであることと、大豆だいずには霊力れいりょくがあると考かんがえられていたためです。 Mamemaki (bean-throwing) is held to drive away oni (demons/evil spirits) and to pray that the new year will be free from illness and disasters and bring good fortune. 鬼おに（邪気じゃき）を退治たいじして、新あたらしい年としを病気びょうきや災害さいがいがなく福ふくを呼よび込こむようにと願ねがいを込こめて、豆まめまきを行おこないます。 Mamemaki is done with roasted beans, which are said to ward off evil spirits. 豆まめまきをするときは、邪気じゃきを払はらうといわれる炒いった豆まめを使つかいます。 [Video] 0:09 - Soybeans and Mamemaki 【動画どうが】0:09～　大豆だいず・豆まめまき Foods Eaten During Setsubun 節分せつぶんに食たべるもの Photo：Ehomaki and soybeans for Setsubun（写真しゃしん：節分せつぶんの恵方巻えほうまきと大豆だいず） There are 2 common foods eaten during Setsubun that are said to bring good luck. 節分せつぶんには、福ふくを呼よび込こむと言いわれる食たべ物ものが2つあります。 The first is the same soybeans used for mamemaki. 1つ目めは豆まめまきに使つかわれる大豆だいずです。 It's said that if you eat your age + 1 in soybeans you will avoid sickness and stay in good health. 自分じぶんの数かぞえ年どし（実年齢じつねんれい＋たす1個いっこ）と同おなじ数かずの大豆だいずを食たべると、病気びょうきにならず、健康けんこうに過すごせると言いわれています。 Be sure to use the leftover beans you didn't throw. まかなかった豆まめを食たべましょうね。 The second food is ehomaki. 2つ目めの食たべ物ものは恵方巻えほうまきです。 Ehomaki is a thick sushi roll filled with a variety of tasty ingredients. 恵方巻えほうまきとはさまざまなおいしい具ぐが入はいった太ふとい巻まき寿司ずしのこと。 When eating ehomaki, one is supposed to face in this year's lucky direction and sit quietly until they've finished eating. 恵方巻えほうまきを食たべるときは、その年としの恵方えほうを向むいて、食たべ終おわるまでは話はなさず静しずかに食たべます。 The "lucky direction" is said to be where the god of good luck resides, and this changes every year. 恵方えほうというのは歳徳神としとくじんがいる方向ほうこうですが、年としによって方角ほうがくは変かわります。 Additionally, ehomaki is supposed to be eaten whole and not cut. また、恵方巻えほうまきは切きらずに丸まるごと食たべるのが基本きほん。 Not cutting the ehomaki symbolizes "not severing ties" and is said to bring good luck. 恵方巻えほうまきを切きらないことは「縁えんを切きらない」という意味いみで、運うんを呼よび込こむと言いわれています。 When making ehomaki, it's common to use 7 ingredients to symbolize the "seven lucky gods" from Japanese mythology. 恵方巻えほうまきを作つくるときには、日本神話にほんしんわに登場とうじょうする「七福神しちふくじん」を表あらわす7つの具材ぐざいを使つかうのが一般的いっぱんてきです。 The reason a sushi roll was chosen was to "wrap the good luck inside." 巻まき寿司ずしが選えらばれたのは、「福ふくを巻まき込こむ」ためです。 [Video] 0:55 - Soybeans and Ehomaki on Setsubun 【動画どうが】0:55～　節分せつぶんの大豆だいずと恵方巻えほうまき [Video] 1:12 - Lucky Directions and Ehomaki Ingredients 【動画どうが】1:12～　恵方えほうと恵方巻えほうまきの具材ぐざい Setsubun 2023 – 3 Recommended Setsubun Festivals in Japan 2023年にせんにじゅうさんねんの節分せつぶん 日本にほんのおすすめ節分せつぶんイベント3選さんせん Photo：Hozomon Gate and a 5-story pagoda, Sensoji Temple（写真しゃしん：浅草浅草寺宝蔵門あさくさせんそうじほうぞうもんと五重塔ごじゅうのとう） Sensoji Temple - Tokyo 浅草寺せんそうじ　東京都とうきょうと Sensoji Temple was the first temple in Edo (Present-day Tokyo) to hold Setsubun celebrations on a large scale. 浅草寺せんそうじは、江戸えど（現在げんざいの東京とうきょう）で初はじめて大型おおがたな節分せつぶんの行事ぎょうじを行おこなったお寺てらです。 Today, the main event consists of a mamemaki event where the chief priests scatter beans from atop a stage. 現在げんざいの主おもな行事ぎょうじは、住職じゅうしょくが舞台ぶたいの上うえからの豆まめまきです。 At Sensoji Temple, rather than "Oni wa Soto, Fuku wa Uchi" (鬼は外福は内, Demons out luck in), they chant "Senju Banzai Fuku wa Uchi" (千秋万歳福は内), which roughly means "Luck for forever and a thousand years!" 浅草寺せんそうじでは、「鬼おには外そと、福ふくは内うち」ではなく、「千秋万歳せんしゅうばんぜい福ふくは内うち」と言いいます。 In addition to the mamemaki event, there is also "Shichi Fukujin no Mai" (七福神の舞, Dance of the Seven Lucky Gods), and mamemaki performed by entertainers associated with Asakusa. 豆まめまきのほか、「七福神しちふくじんの舞まい」もあって、浅草あさくさに関係かんけいがある芸能人げいのうじんによる豆まめまきも行おこなわれます。 【Event Period】Feb. 2 or 3 (TBD) 【開催かいさい時期じき】2月2日にがつふつかまたは3日みっか（未定みてい） Yasaka Shrine - Kyoto 八坂神社やさかじんじゃ　京都府きょうとふ The Setsubun event at Yasaka Shrine features dance performances and mamemaki by Maiko (apprenctice geisha) from the hanamachi districts of Kyoto. 八坂神社やさかじんじゃの節分せつぶん会えでは、京都きょうとの花街はなまちの舞妓まいこさんによる舞踊ぶようや豆まめまきが行おこなわれます。 Also, if you buy fukumame (lucky beans), a fukubiki (lottery ticket) with no empty lot is included, and you can participate in a drawing. また、福豆ふくまめを買かうと、空からくじなしの福引ふくびきがついていて、抽選会ちゅうせんかいに参加さんかできます。 Prizes include TVs and other luxury prizes, as well as daily necessities. 景品けいひんは、テレビなどの豪華賞品ごうかしょうひんや日用品にちようひんなど。 【Event Period】Feb. 2 - Feb. 3 【開催かいさい時期じき】2月2日にがつふつか〜2月3日にがつみっか Sumiyoshi Taisha - Osaka 住吉大社すみよしたいしゃ　大阪府おおさかふ At Sumiyoshi Taisha Shrine, a ceremony called Tsuina Hoshashiki is held by the members of Ogasawara-ryu, a school of archery and horseback archery. 住吉大社すみよしたいしゃでは、礼法れいほう・弓術きゅうじゅつ・馬術ばじゅつの流派りゅうはである「弓馬きゅうば術じゅつ礼法れいほう小笠原おがさわら教場きょうじょう一門いちもん」の方々かたがたによって「追儺ついな歩射式ほしゃしき」が行おこなわれます。 Tsuina is a ceremony to drive away evil spirits. 追儺ついなとは悪鬼あっきを追おい払はらう儀式ぎしき。 "Houshashiki," in which the archer draws his bow on a large target made to look like an oni, is performed in front of a large audience. 鬼おにに見立みたてた大おおきい的てきに弓ゆみを打うつ「歩射式ほしゃしき」は多おおくの観客かんきゃくの前まえで行おこなわれます。 In addition, zenzai (oshiruko) will be served by staff of an unlucky year and other related people. また、節分せつぶんは悪鬼あっきを追おい払はらう日ひということで、厄年やくどしのスタッフや関係者かんけいしゃにぜんざい（おしるこ）が振ふる舞まわれます。 【Event Period】Feb. 2 【開催かいさい時期じき】2月2日にがつふつか ※Event dates and times current as of January 23, 2023. ※イベント開催かいさい日時にちじは2023年にせんにじゅうさんねん1月23日いちがつにじゅうさんにち時点じてんのものです。 Please check the official websites for up-to-date information. 最新情報さいしんじょうほうは各かく公式こうしきサイトにてご確認かくにんください。 Summary of Setsubun, a Traditional Japanese Event 日本にほんの伝統でんとう行事ぎょうじである「節分せつぶん」のまとめ That concludes our introduction to Setsubun, a traditional Japanese event. 以上いじょう、日本にほんの伝統でんとう行事ぎょうじである「節分せつぶん」についてご紹介しょうかいしました。 If you're in Japan for Setsubun, we recommend visiting one of the exciting events that happen across the country. 節分せつぶんに日本にほんにいる人ひとは、日本にほん各地かくちで開催かいさいされる節分せつぶん会えに参加さんかすることをおすすめします。 For those not in Japan, you can still have fun with mamemaki and making and eating ehomaki! 日本にほんにいない人ひとは、豆まめまきしたり、恵方巻えほうまきを作つくって食たべたりすることで楽たのしめます！ When eating the ehomaki, be sure to sit quietly and face the lucky direction for the year! 恵方巻えほうまきを食たべるときは、その年としの恵方えほうを向むいて静しずかに食たべましょう！ This year's lucky direction is slightly south of south-southeast! 今年ことしの恵方えほうは、南南東なんなんとうのやや南みなみだそうです！ h2 ruby { font-weight: bold; } .mod-article-caption .caption-heading { font-size: 2.4rem !important; } .caption-text { font-size: 2rem !important; }

Kasuisai Hinamatsuri: Video Introduction This video, titled "Shizuoka Kasuisai Temple Doll's Festival, Japan Worship Trip | Recommended spots | Travel / vlog,"was uploaded by "Japan Travel Cinema." Kasuisai Hinamatsuri (Doll Festival) is held at Kasuisai Temple in Shizuoka Prefecture; a temple associated with Tokugawa Ieyasu. The 32-tiered display with approximately 1,200 hina dolls, is one of the largest in Japan, and is truly a sight to behold. In addition to ordinary hina dolls, rare hina ornaments, kasafuku umbrellas, sarubobo, etc. can be seen on display in the video. The video also introduces Daitosu, a unisex restroom said to be the most beautiful toilet in Japan. Be sure to check out the video to get a glimpse of one of the largest Hinamatsuri events in Japan at Kasuisai Temple. Kasuisai, a Temple Associated With Tokugawa Ieyasu Photo：Kasuisai Temple, Fukuroi, Shizuoka Kasuisai Temple is a Soto Zen temple located in Fukuroi, Shizuoka, in the Tokai region of Japan. The temple, famous for the Kasuisai Hinamatsuri, was founded by the Buddhist priest Jochu Tengin in 1401, in the early Muromachi period (1336-1573 AD). The 11th chief priest, Senrin Tozen, is said to have been associated with the Tokugawa family since he was responsible for Tokugawa Ieyasu's childhood education. The name of the temple is derived from the fact that Ieyasu, feeling indebted to him, invited the monk Tozen to the castle to renew their old friendship. When Ieyasu saw him dozing off during that visit, he was pleased that the monk was relieved and showed his affection, saying, "Monk, you must sleep," thus giving rise to the name of the temple as "Kasuisai" (可睡斎, lit. "Temple where one may sleep"). At Kasuisai Temple, memorial services are held for dolls and stuffed animals that have watched over children as the grew over the years, and some of the dolls are displayed at the Kasuisai Hinamatsuri event. Kasuisai Hinamatsuri 2023 Highlights! Kasuisai Hinamatsuri 2023 will be held from January 1 to March 31. It's generally held during the same period each year. The limited edition shuin stamps available during the festival are popular among collectors. From January 22 to March 12, visitors can enjoy special vegetarian meals prepared by one of the temple administrators/head chef of Kasuisai. If you're interested in trying Buddhist vegetarian cuisine using healthy spring ingredients, be sure to make a reservation in advance. Children who visit the temple will receive a doll talisman to pray for their healthy growth. It's a great way to commemorate your visit. It takes about four and a half hours to tour the entirety Kasuisai Temple. Please take your time and enjoy temple, which has plenty to see and do. Next, let's take a look at the various highlights of Kasuisai Hinamatsuri in detail. Zuiryukaku – 1,200 Dolls on Display at One of the Largest 32-Tiered Displays in Japan! Photo：Hina dolls, Fukuroi, Shizuoka During Kasuisai Hinamatsuri, there are more than 3,000 hina dolls on display throughout the temple. The most spectacular of them all are the hina dolls displayed in Zuiryukaku. The 32-tiered Hina-dan, one of the largest hina doll displays in Japan, with approximately 1,200 dolls on display, is nothing short of spectacular. It's sure to be a hit on Instagram! [Video] 2:25 - Zuiryukaku, a 32-Tiered Hinadan With Approximately 1,200 Hina Dolls The 3.5-meter-tall, 50-kilogram kasafuku is displayed on the opposite side of the hall. Kasafuku is one of the three major tsurushi-kazari (hanging ornaments) in Japan, made in and around Sakai, Yamagata. The 999 hanging ornaments, including small hammers, turtles, and other lucky ornaments, are so gorgeous that just looking at them brings good luck. [Video] 3:40 - Kasafuku Umbrellas In the video, you can also see Goten-style hina decorations. Goten-kazari is a dollhouse-like decoration with hina dolls representing the emperor and empress placed inside a palace, which is based on the Imperial Palace in Kyoto. [Video] 5:33 - Goten-style Hina Decorations The sarubobo decoration, which is said to bring blessings for fertility and easy childbirth, is another signature of Kasuisai Hinamatsuri. The 2,000 sarubobo decorations hung like hanging ornaments are also a special feature of Kasuisai Hinamatsuri. [Video] 5:56 - Sarubobo The Official Doll of Tokugawa Ieyasu, a Famous Japanese Warlord At this year's Kasuisai Hinamatsuri, the treasury will host an exhibit related to prince Tokugawa Ieyasu in conjunction with "Dou Suru Ieyasu," this year's taiga drama (historical drama series). Shikami dolls modeled after the portrai Tokugawa Ieyasu is said to have had painted after his defeat by Takeda Shingen in the Battle of Mikatahara, a Senrin Tozen and Ieyasu doll modeled after an anecdote with Senrin Tozen, from which the name Kasuisai was derived, and five national treasures, including Hamamatsu Castle and Sunpu Castle made from toothpicks, are also on display. It's a must-see event for those who love Japanese history and Tokugawa Ieyasu. Explore a Lovely Indoor Peony Garden Photo：The indoor peony garden at Kasuisai Temple Kasuisai is also famous as a temple of flowers, especially for its peony garden, which is at its best from April to May. During Kasuisai Hinamatsuri, visitors can enjoy the peony blossoms earlier than usual. The indoor peony garden is located at Zuiryukaku. The 70 pots of peonies, with approximately 20 different varieties, are sure to captivate your heart. The fusuma-e (sliding door paintings) in the Japanese-style room decorated with peonies are also worth checking out! The fusuma paintings were created by Reiki Yamaguchi, a Japanese painter who spent 40 years painting them. The atmospheric fusuma paintings by Yamaguchi, who painted the traditional themes of natural beauty in Japanese aesthetics, accentuate the beauty of the peony blossoms. [Video] 6:24 - The Indoor Peony Garden Daitosu, the Toilet of the Toilet God! Photo：Daitotsu, the toilet at Kasuisai Temple Kasuisai Temple also has what is claimed to be the best toilet in Japan! Called Daitosu, it's a unisex flush toilet that was completed in 1937. At the time of its completion, many people came to use it, as flush toilets were rare in Japan. The ceiling is decorated with a beautifully shaded wicker pattern, and modern lighting on the domed ceiling, creating a retro Japanese atmosphere. In the center is the powerful image of Ucchusma, known in Zen Buddhism as the Buddha of the toilet, who is believed to burn impure things. It's a once-in-a-lifetime masterpiece by Seiun Takamura, a well-known artist of wooden Buddhist sculptures. The beautifully polished Daitosu is also amazingly still in use as a toilet. [Video] 4:37- Daitosu [Video] 5:08 - Ucchusma Summary of Kasuisai Hinamatsuri Kasuisai Hinamatsuri is one of the largest hina doll festivals in Japan. The hinamatsuri event is held under the teaching "treasure the lives of things," after the doll memorial service has been completed. Travel agencies offer hinamatsuri tours for Kasuisai Hinamatsuri. There are also many hotels and other lodging facilities in the area surrounding Kasuisai. If you're considering Shizuoka Prefecture as a spring travel destination, be sure to stop by! If you have children with you, it's a great opportunity to wish them healthy growth and nurture their appreciation of life. We're sure that the beautiful hina dolls, given a new lease of life, will bring you joy. ◆Kasuisai Temple◆ 【Address】2915-1 Kuno, Fukuroi, Shizuoka 437-0061 【Telephone】0538-42-2121 【Hours】8:00 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. 【Admission Fee】¥500 【Access】 Train: Train: Get off at JR Fukuroi Station. Board the train bound for Enshu Morimachi (遠州森町) or Keta (気多) at platform No. 1 at the north exit, and get off at Kasuisai Iriguchi (可睡斎入口).

A Rickshaw Ride Through Asakusa! The video "Asakusa Viewing on Rickshaw!! 浅草を人力車で iPhone Creative 4K,"released by "Studio Hakugeiスタジオ白鯨," is a video showing sightseeing in Asakusa, a popular tourist destination in Japan, by a rickshaw. The rickshaw featured in the video is "Ebisuya," in Asakusa. As you can see in the video, the number of rickshaw pullers who can show you around in English has been increasing in recent years. In addition to Asakusa, where this video was taken, you can also try out rickshaws at other popular sightseeing spots in Japan, including Kamakura and Arashiyama in Kyoto. In addition to the Ebisuya rickshaw shop featured in this video, the Jidaiya's rickshaw shop is also popular. Enjoy sightseeing in Asakusa by rickshaw through the amazing 4K footage! The Rickshaw: History and How It Works! Photo：Asakusa・Rickshaw Rickshaws are the perfect option for those looking to explore popular tourist spots but find it difficult to walk around, or for those who want to experience a different kind of sightseeing tour. Rickshaws are called "jinrikisha," in Japanese, written "人力車." The characters mean: 人: Person 力: Power 車: Vehicle Which basically comes out to be "A human powered vehicle." A rickshaw has two large wheels and a comfortable pedestal, and has a cover that protects passengers from the rain. Rickshaws were first introduced in Nihonbashi in 1872, approximately 150 years ago, and were used as one of the main modes of transport during the Meiji, Taisho and early Showa periods (around 1930). It was also used to transport geisha and maiko in the Karyukai world (Kagai). You might be worried riding one of these bad boys is expensive, but the price is actually quite reasonable, starting at around 3,000 yen per person, and sometimes you can find discounts for couples. If you make a reservation before sightseeing, you can rest easy knowing you'll have a great time sightseeing. Famous Attractions in Asakusa! Source :YouTube screenshot In the video, rickshaw puller guides you through popular sightseeing spots in Asakusa in English. Starting at 0:51 in the video, the famous golden object you see is the Asahi Breweries Headquarters. At 1:21 in the video, there are spots where you can take a picture of Tokyo Sky Tree. The kabuki character seen at 1:44 in the video, belongs to a souvenir shop where you can buy tabi socks and so on. Of course, don't miss out on Sensoji Temple, which is very popular with tourists visiting Japan. It's introduced at 3:33 in the video. Asakusa has a rickshaw lane on the road, so you can enjoy sightseeing without getting stuck in traffic jams. Summary of Rickshaw Rides in Asakusa Source :YouTube screenshot Many of the part-time rickshaw drivers were once talked about as being good-looking. If you go around the sightseeing spots of Japan by rickshaw, you're sure to have a good time! It's also a good idea to specify your destination, or ask the rickshaw drivers to show you hidden gems that only they know about. In addition to the rickshaws shown in the video, you can also take a ride on a horse-drawn carriage, houseboat, or other unusual vehicles when you visit Japan. 【Official Website】Tokyo Asakusa Store | If You're Sightseeing by Rickshaw... | Rickshaw Ebisuya http://ebisuya.com/en/ 【Official Website】Asakusa Tourism | When It Comes to Rickshaws, Nothing Beats Jidaiya https://jidaiya.biz/index-e.html

Introducing Rokugo Manzan in Oita Prefecture This video, titled "Rokugo Manzan Kaisan 1300 Years PV (long)" (六郷満山開山1300年PV(long)), was released by "Rokugo Manzan Kaisan 1300 Kunisaki Peninsula Usa Area" (六郷満山開山1300年国東半島宇佐地域). The video introduces a large number of temples that make up Rokugo Manzan in the Usa Jingu area of Oita prefecture in Japan's Kyushu region. Usa Jingu in Oita Prefecture, is the main shrine of Hachiman shrines nationwide and is revered as the guardian deity of the nation. In 2018, many events were held at Oita's Usa Jingu to commemorate the 1300th anniversary of the opening of the shrine, and it was visited by many worshipers and tourists. Oita Prefecture's Rokugo Manzan - 1300 Years Since Its Founding Photo：Ashibiki Futagoji Temple, Kongo Rikishi Statue Approximately 1300 years ago, Usa Jingu built a number of temples called Rokugo Manzan in the Kunisaki Peninsula area of Oita Prefecture. Many historical shrines and temples still remain in the surrounding area, making it one of the best tourist spots in Oita prefecture. Hachiman Nadagu (八幡奈多宮), an annex temple of Usa Jingu, houses the statues of the three gods, which are designated as national important cultural properties. From 2:22 in the video, the Buddha statue and manor of Bungotakada can be seen, so be sure to check it out. Explore the Temples of Oita Prefecture's Rokugo Manzan With a Tour of Sacred Sites Photo：Usa Shrine, Oita Prefecture If you want to see Rokugo Manzan, we recommend going along the route that visits the 31 sacred sites and enjoying the beautiful natural landscapes that the area offers. The sacred site pilgrimage that starts from Usa Jingu goes through Fukiji Temple, Denjoji Makiodo, Choanji Temple and Monjusenji Temple. At the end of the pilgrimage you'll find Futagoji Temple. Enjoy exploring the temples while getting Goshuin and Kishuin stamps. Sightseeing at a Historic Festival Held at a Temple in Rokugo Manzan, Oita Prefecture Photo：fire-walking (walking over fire or burning coals) Many festivals with a long history are still held at the temples of Rokugo Manzan. At Gansei-ji Temple, which is introduced at 3:03 in the video, events such as historic firewalking rituals are held. The temple in Kunisaki, introduced at 3:51, also shows the images of a fire worshipping festival. At Usa Jingu, a festival called Gyokoe has been held since the Nara period. You can also observe Rokugo Manzan Mineirigyo, an ascetic practice performed by monks. Summary of Rokugo Manzan in Oita Prefecture Photo：Kure Bridge at Usa Shrine Usa Jingu, which has now celebrated its 1300th anniversary, has many hidden tourist spots where you can enjoy the Instagrammable scenery. The video introduces images of a majestic temples and a rare events. If you're planning a trip to Kyushu, consider a visit to Rokugo Manzan in Oita prefecture to enjoy traditional Japanese culture. 【Official Website】Rokugo Manzan Kaisan 1300 Years ~ The Birthplace of Shinbutsu Shugo｜The Usa Area of Kunisaki Peninsula ~ https://www.millennium-roman.jp/rokugou1300/english/

An Oasis in Tokyo "Akiruno City Tourism PR Video" The video “[4K] Akiruno city-the unknown Tokyo / JAPAN / Akiruno City Sightseeing PR Video（[4K] Akiruno city - the unknown Tokyo/ JAPAN / あきる野市観光PR動画）" released by "NAKAJI" mainly focuses on recommended sightseeing spots such as the natural scenery of the Kanto region and the city of Akiruno in Tokyo. If you watch the video, you'll be surprised by the natural beauty of greenery that you couldn't possibly attribute to Tokyo. Akiruno is recommended as a place to relax and get away from the crowds. This article introduces sightseeing spots in Akiruno where you can enjoy nature, history, culture and delicious food. More About Akiruno, Tokyo Source :YouTube screenshot Akiruno, Tokyo is a place rich with nature, about 40 to 50 km west of central Tokyo. With a population of about 80,600 (March, 2020), the climate is colder than in central Tokyo, and the altitude is high, so the area is not so hot in the summer. Akigawa and Itsukaichi merged in 1995 to form Akiruno. The name of the city is derived from the fact that "Akiru Shrine" was located in the former town of Itsukaichi. It is a recommended travel destination for those who are tired of urban life, and has places such as instagram spots and stylish cafes that can be seen in the video. Photo：Yozawa River Speaking of Akiruno's symbol, the clear stream Akigawa, the largest tributary of the Tama River, definitely comes to mind. It flows about 20 km from Hinohara Village to Akiruno, and the surrounding scenery is superb. You can see various landscapes depending on the season, such as fresh greenery in the spring and autumn leaves in the fall. In addition, Ishibune Bridge in the Akigawa Valley is one of the places to see when you go to Akiruno. It is a must-go-to location for checking out the scenery of the river and the autumn leaves that you can see from the top of Ishibune Bridge. The lush nature of Akigawa and the surrounding area can be seen at 0:12 in this video. Akiruno is also famous for Shiroyama. Shiroyama in the Togura district, is a mountain that used to be called "Togura Castle". From the top of Shiroyama, if the weather is nice, you can see the city center, and you will be impressed by the superb view. Since the altitude is not high and it is a gentle mountain trail, it is also a recommended route for beginners climbing and hiking. In addition, "Yamasaki no Oukashi," "Itsukaichi Basin," "Otake Limestone Cave," and "Akirudai Park" are other recommended scenic spots. Information About Recommended Sightseeing Spots in Akiruno, Tokyo Source :YouTube screenshot One of the recommended spots when visiting Akiruno is Seotonoyu. Seotonoyu, located near the Akigawa Valley, is a popular hot spring facility surrounded by greenery. The quality of the hot spring is highly talked about, and its modern interior is also very popular. It is a must-visit place when visiting Akiruno. Other recommended sightseeing spots include Kotoku Temple, Daihigan Temple, Ryushuin Temple, Fukazawa Small Art Museum, Akigawabashi River Park Barbecue Land, and Tokyo Summerland. Also, if you want to enjoy gourmet food in Akiruno, we recommend Kurochaya, where you can eat exquisite Japanese food. Cuisine using river fish such as sweetfish and the famous Tama Yuzu cider are popular. You can also enjoy the atmosphere at an old house. There is also a place in the garden where you can view the bamboo forest. The video also introduces plenty of these local gourmets from 1:37. Akigawa corn, norabou greens and Akigawa pears are also popular foods in Akiruno. Summary of Akiruno Photo：Akiruno・Autumn Colors at Ishibune Bridge "[4K] Akiruno city-the unknown Tokyo / JAPAN / Akiruno sightseeing PR video" is a video introducing recommended sightseeing spots in Akiruno, Tokyo. In addition to the ones introduced in this article, there are also traditional events such as Ninomiya Shrine Fall Festival (Ginger Festival), Shoichiiiwabashiri Shrine Festival (Ina Festival), and Akiru Shrine Festival (Itsukaichi Festival). Akiruno is full of nature. It has access from the city center, and it is a hidden healing location. Why not give it a visit? 【Official Website】Akiruno-shi, Tokyo https://www.city.akiruno.tokyo.jp/ 【Tripadvisor】Akiruno-shi https://www.tripadvisor.com/Tourism-g1060923-Akiruno_Tokyo_Prefecture_Kanto-Vacations.html

Introducing the Toba Fire Festival This video, titled "Japan's Most Dangerous Fire Festival – The Toba Fire Festival" (日本一危険な火祭り　鳥羽の火祭り), was released by "AichiTanken." The Toba Fire Festival is a historic festival which is still held to this day at Toba Shinmeisha shrine (鳥羽神明社) in Nishio city (西尾市) in the southern area of Aichi Prefecture (愛知県), located in Japan's Tokai region (東海地方). The official name of the festival is "Toba Daikagaribi" (鳥羽大篝火, ~The Bonfire of Toba). The Toba fire festival, which is thought to have originated approximately 1,200 years ago, has been designated an Important Intangible Folk Cultural Property of Japan. What Kind of Event Is The Toba Fire Festival? Source :YouTube screenshot During the Toba festival, area representatives called "Fukuji" (福地) and "Kanji" (乾地) set fire to a gigantic torch called a "Suzumi" (すずみ) which, by the nature of the flames, predicts the following years fortune with regards to weather, harvests, and so on. The representatives of each area, called "Shinotoko" (神男), must be at least 25 years of age and before the festival begins must live in a shrine, refrain from eating and drinking, and cleanse their bodies with water in a purification ritual. Also, on the day of the festival, the Shinotoko must jump into the sea naked as part of said purification ritual. The Shinotoko from the previous year help prepare the current year's Shinotoko during this purification process and teach them how to use the "Yusuribo," a 4-5 meter stick used to hold up the suzumi. The Toba Festival starts with the Shinotoko setting fire to the 5 meter tall, 2 ton "Suzumi." After that, the Shinotoko and helpers race to retrieve the "Shinboku" (神木) and "Juninawa" (十二縄) from inside the Suzumi and present them at the shrine. As you can see in the video, the men, who are dressed in hoods, continually pull down the burning grass to get to the Shinboku and Juninawa. From 1:23 in the video, you can see the men climb the Suzumi as flaming grass falls down around them. The men are often called "Neko" (ネコ) which translates to "cat" in English, because of their clothing and the way in which they jump down from the ladders. It is said that if there is a lot of smoke in the Toba Fire Festival, there will be more rain that year, and if the sound of the bamboo crackling is loud, there will be more thunder. It is also believed that eating with chopsticks made of the bamboo used in this ceremony will prevent dental problems. Recommended Spots in Nishio, Aichi Photo：Sakushima Island Other highlights of Nishio city include Kira Hot Spring (吉良温泉) and the Nishio City Salt Farm Experience (西尾市塩田体験館). The island "Sakushima" (佐久島) is also a popular spot for enjoying contemporary art. If you're planning a trip to Nishio city, we also recommend trying some of the popular local sweets made with Matcha. Summary of the Toba Fire Festival Source :YouTube screenshot The Toba Fire Festival has been featured in the local Aichi news outlet "KATCH" (キャッチ), as well as other websites and tourist information brochures. For those interested in traditional Japanese festivals, we highly recommend taking another look at the video of the Toba Fire Festival! On the day of the festival, many food stands and special viewing areas are set up as well, so be sure to head over to Nishio and enjoy the awesome Toba Fire Festival! ◆Toba Fire Festival – Tobashinmeisha Shrine – Event Information◆ 【Address】444-0704, Aichi prefecture, Nishio city, Tobacho (鳥羽町), Nishibasama (西迫) 89 【Access】10-minute walk from Mikawatoba station (三河鳥羽駅, mikawatobaeki) on the Meitetsu Gamagori Line (名鉄蒲郡線, meitetsugamagoorisen) 【Parking】 Available (approximately 400 spaces at Furusato Park (ふるさと公園), the fish market, etc.) 【Telephone】0563-62-2852 【Tripadvisor】 Toba Shinmeisha Shrine https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g1019652-d2005852-Reviews-Toba_Shinmeisha_Temple-Nishio_Aichi_Prefecture_Tokai_Chubu.html

About the Tateyama Kurobe Alpine Route Promotional Video This video, titled "(TKAR010) Long Version 'Tateyama Kurobe Alpine Route Promotional Video' Japan" (（TKAR010）立山黒部アルペンルート long version "Tateyama Kurobe Alpine Route promotional video" JAPAN), was released by "[Official] Tateyama Kurobe Alpine Route Video Channel" (【公式】立山黒部アルペンルート絶景動画チャンネル). The Tateyama Kurobe Alpine Route is a popular mountain sightseeing route with a series of 3,000-meter tall mountains. It offers observation decks with incredible views of the Tateyama Mountain range, a sightseeing route through a massive snow wall that appears at 0:48 in the video, and the stunning scenery of the Northern Alps. Check it out in the video! The Tateyama Kurobe Alpine Route Sightseeing Route Photo：Kurobe-daira, cable car The Tateyama Kurobe Alpine Route is a 37 km long mountain sightseeing route that starts from Tateyama Station in Toyama Prefecture and ends at Shinano-Omachi (信濃大町, Shinano-Omachi) in Nagano Prefecture. The route starts by taking the cable car from Tateyama Station on the Toyama Prefecture side, seen at 0:58 in the video, to Bijodaira (美女平, Bijodaira), and then to Tateyama Murodo (立山室堂,Tateyama Murodo) via Midagahara (弥陀ヶ原, Midagahara. Murodo is known as the highest station in Japan. You'll be able to enjoy a panoramic view of the Northern Alps from the sightseeing observation deck on Mt. Murodo (室堂山, Murodo-Yama). Explore the Tateyama Kurobe Alpine Route Using Local Transportation! Photo：Kurobe Lake and a ropeway Take the Tateyama Tunnel Trolley Bus from Murodo to Daikanbo Station, which can be seen at 1:42 in the video. The Tateyama Ropeway takes you to Kurobe-daira (黒部平, Kurobe-daira) from Daikanbo (大観峰, Daikanbo) in just 7 minutes. Take a ride on Japan's longest ropeway, a single-span ropeway with no aerial lift pylons, and experience the beautiful scenery. You can also take the Kurobe Cable Car from Kurobe-daira to Kurobeko (黒部湖, Kurobeko). The Highlight of the Tateyama Kurobe Alpine Route - The Great Snow Corridor Photo：Toyama Prefecture, Yuki no Oya The area around Snow Corridor of the Tateyama Kurobe Alpine Route has the most snowfall on the route. The snow that falls in winter forms two massive wall of snow, and even in mid-May, visitors can walk through a wall of snow more than 10 meters tall. The buses that run through the snow corridor were discontinued in April 2019, but you can still enjoy touring the sights on an environmentally-friendly hybrid bus. The bus may be cancelled depending on the weather, so be sure to check ahead of time and make reservations before your journey. After passing through the Kurobe Dam area of the Tateyama Kurobe Alpine Route, you'll be heading to Shinano Omachi, passing through the scenic landscape of Ogisawa (扇沢, Ogisawa) and the Hinatayama Plateau (日向山高原, Hinatayama Kougen). Summary of the Tateyama Kurobe Alpine Route Photo：Kurobe Dam and Tateyama Tourism on the Tateyama Kurobe Alpine Route peaks from winter through spring. You should expect there to be a large number of visitors on the route during the peak of the season, as many people will come to see the massive snow corridor. When the weather is nice in the summer, try the sightseeing route from the Tateyama Kurobe Alpine Route to the summit of Mt. Tsurugi (剱岳, Tsurugi-dake). We also recommend sightseeing in the fall when the Northern Alps are covered in beautiful autumn colors. As shown in the video, wildflowers, birds, and other wildlife that can only be seen here will make your trip unforgettable. 【Official Website】Tateyama Kurobe Alpine Route Official Guide https://www.alpen-route.com/en/ 【Tripadvisor】Tateyama Kurobe Alpine Route https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g1121155-d1220498-Reviews-Tateyama_Kurobe_Alpine_Route-Tateyama_machi_Nakaniikawa_gun_Toyama_Prefecture_Ho.html

Winter Activities at Mt. Bandai in Fukushima Prefecture! This video, titled "[Learning About Mt. Bandai] Travel Education: Winter Activities Edition" (【学べる磐梯山】旅育（タビイク）冬のアクティビティ編), was produced by "ponycanyon." In recent years, winter activities in Japan have gained huge popularity among foreign tourists. At Mt. Bandai in winter, introduced in the video, along with skiing and snowboarding, there's a ton of activities to enjoy! Let's take a look at what's in store for you! About Mt. Bandai ©Koichi_Hayakawa Modifying Let's take a look at Mt. Bandai itself. The Aizu-Mt. Bandai area of Fukushima Prefecture is a popular spot visited by many tourists each year. Mt. Bandai is designated as one of the "100 Famous Japanese Mountains" and is located in Fukushima Prefecture where three towns and villages meet. They are: Kita Shiobara (北塩原村, Kita Shiobara-Mura), Bandai (磐梯町, Bandai-Machi), and Inawashiro (猪苗代町, Inawashiro-Machi). Lake Inawashiro (猪苗代湖, Inawashiro-Ko), the fourth largest lake in Japan, is located south of Mt. Bandai. On the north side, there is a place called "Urabandai," which is famous for its group of ponds, which includes Goshiki-Numa (五色沼, Goshiki-Numa), which was formed by a large eruption. The Aizu-Mt. Bandai area is also known as the area where Hideyo Noguchi, the man on the 1,000 yen bill, was born and raised. You can enjoy the superb views of Japan's natural scenery, including the crater of Mt. Bandai, the Lake Inawashiro, pond group, the wetlands of the Mt. Bandai Gold Line, and the Bandai Azuma Skyline that runs along Mt. Bandai. Activities to Enjoy at Mt. Bandai Source :YouTube screenshot At 0:10 in the video, you can see the smelt fishing experience at Gold House Meguro. Smelt fishing under the ice of Lake Hibara (桧原湖, Hibara-Ko) is a ton of fun, and you can even cook your own catch and eating them as tempura! This activity allows you to feel nature's bounty with all five senses, and the video recommends learning the importance of creativity and life by feeling the life at the bottom of the lake. The next activity, introduced at 0:45 in the video, is the snowshoe experience! This wonderful snowshoe trekking experience, provided by Urabandai Mokumoku Nature School, provides a valuable experience of walking through the silver world of Goshiki-Numa. In the video, you can see kids having a blast as they roll around in the snow and play on the snow slide! At 1:18, you can see the farming experience which involves picking cabbage from underneath the snow! Cabbage underneath the snow ripens quickly and can be eaten like a fruit! You can feel the life in the snow country and the wisdom of our ancestors at the same time. More Activities in Winter at Mt. Bandai! Source :YouTube screenshot At the nature-rich Mt. Bandai, you can enjoy activities such as snowmobiling and snow rafting on the ski slopes, as well as trekking along the mountain route. Depending on the weather, you may be able to see ice covered trees at the Aizu-Mt. Bandai area in winter. Canoeing on the lake in winter also makes for a great experience. Even beginners can safely enjoy the activities, as their are guides and instructors to help you learn. There's also Mt. Bandai Onsen Hotel and Hoshino Resort nearby, so we recommend making a reservation for your stay. Summary of Winter Activities at Mt. Bandai Source :YouTube screenshot The video describes itself as "Learning About a Snowy Paradise" and introduces the splendor of using all 5 senses in the beautiful natural landscapes of Japan. If you're interested in winter activities in Japan, be sure to check out the video and visit Mt. Bandai when you have the chance! 【Official Website】Mt. Bandai – Urabandai Tourist Association https://www.urabandai-inf.com/en/ 【Tripadovisor】Mt. Bandai https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g1120477-d555801-Reviews-Mount_Bandaisan-Yama_gun_Fukushima_Prefecture_Tohoku.html

COOL JAPAN VIDEOS is always holding photo contests. This time, we have selected works depicting Japan's Kansai region from among the many photos submitted to past COOL JAPAN VIDEOS Photo Contests, and will introduce some photography tips on timing, composition, etc. to help you take great photos with your smartphone! Be sure to try them out the next time you're sightseeing in Japan's Kansai region. COOL JAPAN VIDEOS is a social, video curation site that introduces the charms of Japan to people around the world who are interested in Japan. Our photo contests allow you to participate and even win with photos taken via your smartphone! Stick around to learn more! ■Table of Contents - Kansai in Past Photo Contests  Shirahige Shrine at Sunset  A Night View of Dotonbori in Minami, Osaka  Mt. Wakakusa Yamayaki and Yakushiji Temple  The Great Buddha Hall of Todaiji Temple  Gozan Okuribi in Kyoto  Sea Sparkles in Ine, Kyoto  Himeji Castle and Cherry Blossoms  The Takeda Castle Ruins  Daimonzaka on the Kumano Kodo  Hashigui-iwa Rocks - Features of COOL JAPAN VIDEOS Photo Contests - Current Photo Contest - Summary of Kansai in COOL JAPAN VIDEOS Photo Contests Kansai in Past Photo Contests Among the many works that convey the charms of Japan, we have carefully selected photos of sightseeing spots in Japan's Kansai region. We will also introduce some highlights of each area, photography tips, and related video articles to check out. COOLJAPANVIDEOS Photographer: たっかー Location: Shirahige Shrine (Takashima, Shiga) Highlights and Photography Tips for Shirahige Shrine, Lake Biwa Shirahige Shrine is a popular power spot in Japan and is the oldest shrine in Omi. There are many photogenic sights, including the main shrine, the shrine office, and other historical buildings, as well as Iwato Shrine located at the far end of the shrine grounds. But the best place for photos is the Great Torii Gate standing in Lake Biwa! You can capture various scenes of the torii as it stands against the rising sun and on the surface of the lake at sunset from the observatory on the shrine grounds. A Video Article About Shirahige Shrine, a Popular Tourist Attraction 動画記事 5:22 Shirahige Shrine - A Mysterious and Popular Location Where You Can Enjoy a Spectacular View of Lake Biwa! The Vermilion-Colored Torii Gate Is a Must-See! YouTube COOLJAPANVIDEOS Photographer: たっかー Location: Dotonbori (Osaka City, Osaka Prefecture) Highlights and Photography Tips for Dotonbori a downtown area in Osaka's Minami district Dotonbori is a well-known shopping district in Osaka's Minami district. Lined with theatres and restaurants, it has been crowded with people since Edo period Japan to the present day. Ebisu Bridge, which spans the Dotonbori River, is a great place to take photos. The huge billboard of "Glico" is proof that Osaka is a popular tourist attraction. The Kuidaore Taro doll and the giant three-dimensional billboards are photo spots that symbolize downtown Osaka. A Video Article About the Shinsekai and Tsutenkaku Areas of Osaka 動画記事 4:26 Be Enchanted by the Glittering Neon Lights of Osaka and the Night View of Tsutenkaku Lighting up the City of Osaka! Introducing Recommended Spots Around Tsutenkaku Tower, the Symbol of Osaka! YouTube COOLJAPANVIDEOS Photographer: Shunkai_k Location: Lake Oike (Nara City, Nara Prefecture) Highlights and Photography Tips for Wakakusa Yamayaki Wakakusa Yamayaki, an event held every year on the fourth Saturday in January in Japan, is a traditional event in Nara. The flames spread across 81 acres of grassland on Mt. Wakakusa in Nara Park. The foot of Mt. Wakakusa, where visitors can see Mt. Wakakusa up close as it burns, as well as Ukigumo Enchi and Kasugano Enchi, which offer panoramic views of Mt. Wakakusa, are all popular sightseeing spots. From Oike in Nishinokyo, visitors can take photos of Yakushiji Temple and the Mt. Wakakusa fireworks. A Video Article About Yakushiji Temple, a Power Spot in Nara Prefecture 動画記事 6:57 Yakushiji Temple in Nara Prefecture - Registered as a World Heritage Site Under "Historic Monuments of Ancient Nara," the Temple Is Also Known as a Power Spot To Pray for Good Health! YouTube COOLJAPANVIDEOS Photographer: Smartone Templeslope Location: The Great Buddha Hall of Todaiji Temple from Mt. Wakakusa (Nara City, Nara Prefecture) Highlights and Photography Tips for Nara Park, a Popular Tourist Attraction Nara Park is dotted with historical buildings such as Todaiji Temple, Shosoin Temple, Kofukuji Temple, and Kasuga Taisha Shrine in a rich natural setting. It is also a popular tourist attraction for cherry blossoms and autumn leaves. If you want to take pictures of autumn leaves and deer, we recommend Tobihino and Ukigumo Enchi in Nara Park. A Video Article About Tourist Attractions in Nara Prefecture 動画記事 3:45 Get a Taste of Japanese History in Nara Prefecture! Nara Prefecture Is Full of Places That You Don't Want to Miss When Traveling to the Kansai Region! YouTube COOLJAPANVIDEOS Photographer: tabokin Location: Hidari Daimonji seen from Mt. Yoshida (Sakyo, Kyoto) Photography Tips for Gozan no Okuribi, a Summer Event in Kyoto Gozan no Okuribi is a summer tradition in Kyoto. It's a Bon Festival event held every year on August 16 where fires are lit on five mountains surrounding the city of Kyoto. The characters "Daimonji" (大文字), "Myo/Ho" (妙・法), "Funagata" (船形), "Hidari Daimonji" (左大文字), and "Toriigata" (鳥居形) are lit in sequence from 8:00 p.m. onward. Mt. Yoshida, located on Mt. Okita and facing Daimonji, is lit by "Hidari Daimonji." 10 minutes up the mountain, there is a photo spot where you can get a full view of the Daimonji, which is highly recommended. A Video Article About Gozan no Okuribi, a Traditional Event in Kyoto 動画記事 1:01 Gozan no Okuribi – A Traditional Event to Send off the Spirits of the Deceased During the Obon Festival of Kyoto, Japan YouTube COOLJAPANVIDEOS Photographer: しんご @shingo_camera Location: Ine (Yosa, Kyoto) The Sea Sparkles of Ine, Kyoto Every year from April to the end of May, there are days when Ine Bay in Kyoto, Japan glows a brilliant blue. The cause of this is noctiluca scintillans, aka sea sparkles. Unlike sea fireflies, sea sparkles emit blue light in response to physical stimuli. Therefore, whenever they are stimulated by waves, large numbers of sea sparkles begin to glow. During the day, when there's a red tide in the bay and a strong southward wind blows, there's a high probability of seeing sea sparkles. A Video Article About the Funaya of Ine, Kyoto 動画記事 3:45 The First Floor of the House Is a Dock?! The Historic Port Town of Funaya, Ine in Kyoto Is a Fishing Village Lined With Mysterious Houses! You won't Find Scenery Like This Anywhere Else! YouTube COOLJAPANVIDEOS Photographer: st situation Location: Himeji Castle (Himeji, Hyogo) Highlights and Photography Tips for Cherry Blossoms at Himeji Castle Himeji Castle, selected as one of the Top 100 Cherry Blossom Viewing Spots in Japan, is home to approximately 1,600 cherry trees, including Someiyoshino cherry trees and weeping cherry trees, which can be seen in full bloom in the spring. Sannomaru Square (三の丸広場, San no Maru Hiroba), Senhime Botan Garden (千姫ぼたん園, Sen Hime Botan-en), and Nishi no Maru Garden (西の丸庭園, Nishi no Maru Teien) are popular spots for taking photos of Himeji Castle and the cherry blossoms. The atmospheric composition of Himeji Castle, cherry blossoms, and a Japanese sightseeing boat in the inner moat of Himeji Castle with the red Shiromi Bridge in the background creates an incredibly photogenic shot. A Video Article About Cherry Blossoms at Himeji Castle in Hyogo Prefecture 動画記事 3:29 Enjoy the Cherry Blossoms of Hyogo Prefecture at Himeji Castle, Japan's First World Cultural Heritage Site! The Contrast Between the White Himeji Castle and the Pink Cherry Blossoms Will Leave You Speechless! YouTube COOLJAPANVIDEOS Photographer: Nguyen Vu Location: The Takeda Castle Ruins from the Ritsuunkyo Observation Deck (Asago, Hyogo) Highlights and Photography Tips for the Takeda Castle Ruins The Takeda Castle Ruins, located on the summit of Mt. Kojo in Asago, Hyogo, are the site of a mountain castle whose stone walls are still almost completely intact, some 400 years after the castle was abandoned. On a clear autumn morning, the area around the castle is sometimes shrouded in thick fog, leaving the Takeda Castle Ruins at the top of the mountain. A good spot to photograph the Takeda Castle Ruins floating in a sea of clouds is the Ritsuunkyo Observation Deck (立雲峡, Ritsuunkyo), located halfway up Mt. Asago opposite the castle ruins. A Video Article About the Take Castle Ruins, the "Castle in the Sky" 動画記事 2:29 Behold the Mesmerizing Scenery of Takeda Castle, Hidden in a Sea of Clouds in Asago, Hyogo! Called the "Machu Picchu of Japan" and "Castle in the Sky," Takeda Castle Attracts Thousands of Tourists From All Over the World! YouTube COOLJAPANVIDEOS Photographer: 女子高校生 Location: The Kumano Kodo (Higashimuro, Wakayama) Highlights and Photography Tips for Daimonzaka on the Kumano Kodo Daimonzaka, located on the Kumano Kodo pilgrimage trail, is the entrance to Kumano Nachi Taisha Shrine and Nachi Falls, both of which were visited by people in ancient times. The "Meoto Sugi" (Lover Cedar Trees), estimated to be 800 years old, the stone pavement, the grove of centuries-old cedar trees, and the moss-covered stone steps are a must-see for photographers and travelers alike. Kumano Nachi Taisha Shrine, one of the Kumano Sanzan (three great temples of the Kumano region), and Nachi Falls, one of the Top 3 Waterfalls in Japan, are also popular spots. A Video Article About the Kumano Kodo, a World Heritage Site 動画記事 2:35 The Beautiful Landscape of Kumano Kodo, A World Heritage Site in Wakayama Prefecture. This Historic Power Spot Is Full of Stone Steps and Sacred Waterfalls, Perfect for Your Instagram! YouTube COOLJAPANVIDEOS Photographer: いくみ Location: Hashigui-iwa Rocks (Higashimuro, Wakayama) Highlights and Photography Tips for Hashigui-iwa Rocks, a Popular Tourist Attraction The Hashigui-iwa Rocks are a group of uniquely-shaped rocks in the town of Kushimoto on the southern tip of Wakayama. It consists of more than 40 rock pillars of all shapes and sizes that form a straight line extending roughly 850 meters into the sea. The scenery has been selected as one of the Top 100 Sunrise Spots in Japan, so be sure to take photos of it at sunrise! The best spot to photograph it is from the parking lot of Roadside Station Kushimoto Hashigui-iwa (道の駅くしもと橋杭岩, Michi no Eki Kushimoto Hashigui-iwa). With silhouettes of rock pillars, the sky and the sea, it's possible to capture various appearances with creative use of exposure, composition, and white balance. A Video Article About the Shirasaki Coast in Wakayama Prefecture 動画記事 3:35 Shirasaki Coast in Wakayama Prefecture, Called the "Aegean Sea of Japan," Is Just Like a Painting! Introducing the Charms and Activities of Shirasaki Coast! YouTube COOL JAPAN VIDEOSFeatures of COOL JAPAN VIDEOS Photo Contests COOL JAPAN VIDEOS is a social, video curation site that shares the charms of Japan with people all over the world who are interested in Japan. Click here for more information about COOLJAPANVIDEOS 「COOL JAPAN VIDEOS photo contests are open to everyone! Even a photo taken by chance with your smartphone could win a prize! Here are some of the features of our contests. ・Photos taken not only with SLR cameras and digital cameras, but also with smartphones and other devices can be submitted. ・You can submit as many photos as you like during the contest period. ・Image editing, such as cropping and color changes, is also allowed! Here you can find all of the past photo contest winners in one place. You can also see the prizes for each contest, as well as the locations where the photos were taken and the judges' critiques. Click here to see past photo contest winners テキスト記事 Photo Contest Results - COOL JAPAN VIDEOS Winning Photos - Discover the Charms of Japan! Current Photo Contest The following is information about the current photo contest. [Ongoing From Jan 2023] The 15th COOL JAPAN VIDEOS Photo Contest Theme: Japan Travel Destinations You Recommend Visiting in 2023 Submission period: January 1, 2023 12:00 AM - February 28, 2023 11:59 AM (Japan time) Prizes: ■Grand Prize: 30,000 yen Amazon gift card (1 Winner) ■Honorable Mentions: 10,000 yen Amazon gift card (5 Winners) 2023 Photo Contest – Summary of Kansai in COOL JAPAN VIDEOS Photo Contests That concludes our introduction of beautiful photos of tourist attractions in Japan's Kansai Region in past COOL JAPAN VIDEOS Photo Contests. Next time you're visiting any of these tourist attractions, be sure to try out some of these photography tips! With the spread of smartphones, the world of photography has become more accessible than ever. We invite you to share your photos of Japan with the people of the world by submitting them to COOL JAPAN VIDEOS. Related Articles Text only Photo Contest Landscape Photography - Introducing 10 Beautiful Japanese Landscapes Text only Children of COOL JAPAN VIDEOS Photo Contests: 10 Heartwarming Photos That Will Put a Smile on Your Face! Text only Autumn in COOL JAPAN VIDEOS Photo Contests: 10 Beautiful Photos of Autumn in Japan Text only Mt. Fuji in COOL JAPAN VIDEOS Photo Contests: 10 Photos Showcasing the Different Views of Mt. Fuji Text only Hokkaido in COOL JAPAN VIDEOS Photo Contests: From Popular Sightseeing Spots to Exotic Animals, Discover the Beauty of Japan's Northernmost Prefecture! Text only Tohoku in COOL JAPAN VIDEOS Photo Contests: Hot Springs, Festivals, Snowscapes, and More – 10 Beautiful Photos of Japan's Tohoku Region! 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Stylish Winter Camping in Japan One of the reasons for Japan's camping boom is the popularity of glamping facilities, which allow people to enjoy nature in a comfortable environment. However, glamping can be more expensive than camping, and because of this, self-glamping is now becoming popular as well. In this article, we'll introduce heating equipment and other gear for winter camping in Japan, as well as how to coordination the interior of your bell tent for a stylish experience! Video Introduction This video was uploaded by "VAN LIGE BEYOND CHANNEL," a channel that uploads camping and outdoor videos. It introduces essential items to enjoy winter camping in Japan. The video features heating and lighting equipment and shows off the stylish interior of a bell tent. The warm color coordination used in the decorations creates a welcoming atmosphere and is perfect for a winter camping trip. Check it out! Be Prepared for Cold Weather When Winter Camping in Japan Photo：Winter camping Winter campers need to be well-prepared for the cold. This includes not only clothing, but also things like sleeping bags, tents, and heating equipment. To enjoy winter camping in Japan safely, be sure to check your camping equipment in advance. A Must-Have for Winter Camping! Stay Warm With Proper Heating! When camping during the winter months, the temperature outside can drop very low and protection against the cold is a must. In addition to taking measures with bedding and clothing, you'll also need a proper heater. The Toyotomi Rainbow Stove (RL-250) is a great item for winter camping. It's also great for beginner campers and it heats the inside of a tent well with batteries and kerosene. In addition, the gentle light of the fire can be used as a lantern. [Video] 2:30 - Introduction of the Toyotomi Rainbow Stove Be Careful of Carbon Monoxide Poisoning! Photo：Winter camping It's easy to fall asleep with the heater on. However, continued use of a stove in a closed tent can lead to carbon monoxide poisoning! We recommend using a carbon monoxide alarm that can check carbon monoxide levels. A carbon monoxide alarm will alert you before carbon monoxide levels reach abnormal levels. If you want to enjoy winter camping safely, a carbon monoxide alarm is a must! Enjoy a Comfortable Winter Camping Experience! Stylish Interior Decorations for Your Tent! Source :YouTube screenshot The Yamazen Campers Collection 3 Tier Rack is a storage rack that is easy to set up. It can also be used as an interior decoration, creating a stylish atmosphere inside your tent! You can even place small items on it to keep the inside of your tent tidy while still looking cool! The Barebones Living Forest Lantern is a USB rechargeable lantern. It can be dimmed to whatever brightness you prefer, and it will envelop the inside of your tent in a gentle glow. Winter Camping Essentials Photo：Relaxing in nature A variety of products are sold for winter camping. Let's take a look at some of the essentials. [Clothing] Camping is all about layering, with a base layer, middle layer, and outer layer to create a layer of air. In winter, choose clothing that takes into consideration temperature differences between morning and evening and that is also breathable. Also, be sure to bring neck warmers, gloves, and thick socks to keep your neck warm. [Winter Camping Gear] Don't forget to pack a winter blanket or proper sleeping bag. Hot water bottles and disposable body warmers are also useful. Even in winter, you'll still have to wash dishes, so thick rubber gloves are great to have to protect against the cold. The Charms of Winter Camping Photo：Kouan Campsite at night If you've never been winter camping before, you might be wondering "why would you want to camp in the cold?" First of all, unlike summer, there are no insects, such as mosquitoes and flies. And because it's cold in the winter, hot drinks and meals taste even better. Also, because the air is clearer in winter, you can take your time to gaze at the beautiful starry sky. Furthermore, camping in a snowy area means you can play in the snow, or even use the snow as a free cooler. You can also enjoy making lanterns out of snow, a fun experience that can only be experienced when winter camping. Consider bringing a shovel so you can try different activities like this! With all of this in mind, we ask, why wouldn't you want to camp in the cold? Enjoy Winter Camping to the Fullest: Choosing the Right Tent! Choosing the right tent is key to having a memorable winter camping experience. In addition to considering capacity with things like two-room tents with a tarp or teepee tents, it's also important to check how good the ventilation is, as you'll more than likely be using a heater. We also recommend choosing a full cotton tent or a tent with similar material that has good insulation to handle the winter weather. Nowadays, there are cotton tents that can be easily set up even by beginners, making winter camping easy for anyone to enjoy. Summary of Winter Camping in Japan Winter camping is a different kind of fun than that of summer camping. The most important thing to remember is to prepared for the cold weather. Make sure you have the right clothes and gear so you can enjoy a safe and exciting winter camping trip. If you're getting used to winter camping, be sure to check out some of the stylish interior ideas in the video and use it as a reference when planning your next camping trip.

Rakugan, a Traditional Japanese Sweet Offered at Senjuji Temple's Buddhist: Video Introduction This video, titled "[4K Video] Rakugan – A Japanese Sweet Offered at Senjuji Temple: Tsu, Mie｜nippon.com" (【4K動画】専修寺（せんじゅじ）の法会に供される落雁:三重県津市一身田町| nippon.com), was uploaded by "nippon.com." In this 4K video, you can see the traditional Japanese sweet rakugan, made by Okadaya and offered at Senjuji Temple, as if you were actually seeing it with your own eyes. 　　[Video] 0:28 - Rakugan 　　[Video] 1:50 - A Buddhist Service at Senjuji Temple Senjuji Temple is the head temple of the Takata sect of Shinshu Buddhism, which has more than 600 temples throughout Japan. Located in Tsu, Mie, in Japan's Tokai region, the temple houses Nyoraido and Mieido, the first buildings in Mie Prefecture to be designated as national treasures, as well as many other national treasures related Buddhism and Important Cultural Properties designated by the government of Japan. Every year from January 9 to 16, Shinshu's largest Buddhist memorial service, Hoonko, is held here. The signature traditional Japanese sweet offered at the altar of such an important Buddhist service at Senshuji Temple is rakugan. Okadaya is the sweets shop that supplies these rakugan to Senjuji Temple. Okadaya was founded in 1868 and is a long-established confectionary in Tsu, Mie, the same city as Senjuji Temple. Currently, in addition to Japanese sweets such as rakugan, sakura okoshi, and otafuku manju, Okadaya also sells fresh and colorful birthday cakes, wedding cakes, and cakes with illustrations, made with seasonal ingredients. What Is Rakugan? Origin, Characteristics, and How It's Made Photo：Rakugan Rakugan is a traditional Japanese sweet commonly used in tea ceremony or as an offering. It's made by kneading grain-derived flour with sugar or syrup, pressing it into a mold, forming it, and drying it. Rakugan is also a type of higashi. Higashi refers to dried wagashi with less than 20% water content. Major types of higashi include rakugan, konpeito, senbei, and yatsuhashi. Wagashi can be classified into three categories: fresh confectioneries, semi-perishable confectioneries, and dried confectioneries. Rakugan, wasanbon, and yatsuhashi belong to the dried confectionery category. Rakugan, which are very hard, are mostly made of sugar, meaning that the flavor of the ingredients can be enjoyed as is, and because they contain little water, they are resistant to mold and last a long time. Because of its unique hardness, it's easy to form patterns on the surface, and it's possible to make patterns in the shape of flowers, family crests, cranes and turtles, and other auspicious symbols, and it can also be colored in various colors with food coloring. These characteristics are what make rakugan suitable as an offering, and thus they are frequently used as such. There are two popular theories about the origin of the name rakugan (落雁): the first is that the name comes from the Chinese sweet nanrakukan (軟落甘) and that the name changed over time, and the second is that it was named after Katata no Rakugan (堅田落雁, Wild Geese Returning Home at Katata) one of the Eight Views of Omi. Rakugan are said to have originated when a disciple of the Buddha served rakugan to monks during the Bon Festival. The word "rakugan" (落雁) means "geese flying down from the sky," and is a well-known seasonal word used in Japanese poetry to represent autumn. Rakugan, Wasanbon, and Hakusetsuko – Three Types of Japanese Sweets Photo：Wasanbon Hakusetsuko and wasanbon are two other types of higashi and are difficult to distinguish from rakugan. Here, we'll explain the differences and uses of rakugan, hakusetsuko and wasanbon. Both rakugan and hakusetsuko can be colored red and white and decorated with patterns, and are typical traditional Japanese sweets used as offerings for the Bon Festival. Rakugan are made from steamed and dried rice powder, while hakusetsuko are made from raw rice powder. Wasanbon is made by molding only wasanbon, a type of sugar, and therefore differs from rakugan and hakusetsu-kan in both ingredients and how it's made. Wasanbon is a specialty of Kagawa and Tokushima prefectures, and is made by refining sugarcane juice. Today, it's considered a high-end sugar due to its scarcity and the decrease in the number of producers. It's mainly used as sugar for Japanese sweets, and is especially famous for its use in higashi sweets. How to Store Rakugan and How Long It Can Be Kept Photo：Bon Festival offerings The reason why rakugan is used as an offering is because its ability to last for a long time. So, by when should rakugan be eaten? If stored properly, rakugan can be kept for more than a month and eaten without any problems. On the other hand, if they are not stored properly, their quality may deteriorate quickly. The key to preserving the quality of rakugan is to avoid humidity and sunlight. Because of its high sugar content, rakugan easily absorbs moisture, especially during Japan's rainy season, and when it absorbs moisture, it spoils much quicker. In addition, colored rakugan will lose their color when exposed to sunlight. If they are to be served after being dedicated as an offering, it's important to pay attention to humidity, sunlight, and the time of year they are offered. To prevent spoiling from humidity, we recommend wrapping the rakugan in film. As tea sweets, rakugan can be stored in an airtight container without losing quality if kept out of direct sunlight. How to Enjoy Rakugan and Recipes They Can Be Used In Photo：Rakugan sugar The following is a list of delicious ways to eat rakugan as well as recipes they can be used in. Since the main ingredient of rakugan is sugar, it can be processed into a powder using a grater, food processor, or mill, and used as a substitute for sugar in a wide variety of applications. For example, we recommend using it in coffee, tea, or other beverages, or in yogurt or pancakes, as it's particularly easy to utilize. By using it in these ways, you can enjoy the taste of rakugan that have hardened over time, as opposed to eating them as they are. Summary of Rakugan, a Traditional Japanese Sweet In this article, we introduced rakugan, a higashi (dried confectionery) that's also offered at the Buddhist memorial service at Senjuji Temple. With a long history, rakugan has been loved throughout Japan to the extent that it has been selected as one of the three most famous confectioneries in the country. If you have the chance to try this traditional Japanese sweet, definitely give it a go!

The Kamihinokinai Paper Balloon Festival of Akita Prefecture: Video Introduction This video, titled "[Aerial Footage] Paper Balloon Festival Kamihinokinai Night Flight Filming" (【空撮】2017冬祭り上桧木内の紙風船上げ Paper Balloon Festival Kamihinokinai Night Flight Shooting) was uploaded by "DIRECT Kaneko." The Kamihinokinai Paper Balloon Festival is a winter festival in Nishiki, and the one shown in the video was held on February 10, 2017 in Semboku, Akita, in Japan's Tohoku region. During the day, you can see the unique scenery of Japan's snow country, and at night, when the moon comes out, you can see the exciting aerial footage taken via drone. Please enjoy the collaboration of paper balloons and fireworks soaring high into the night sky! [Video] 1:27 - Paper Balloons and Fireworks in the Night Sky Kamihinokinai Paper Balloon Festival – The Characteristics and History of the Festival Source :YouTube screenshot The Kamihinokinai Paper Balloon Festival is a winter festival held in the Kamihinokinai district of Nishiki, Semboku, Akita on February 10 in the middle of winter. The festival features around 100 large paper balloons with paintings of warriors and beautiful women rising into the winter night sky like hot air balloons. It's a winter tradition in the Kamihinokinai area and attracts many visitors every year. The Kamihinokinai Paper Balloon Festival is an event that has been handed down as a winter festival in one of Japan's higher snowfall areas. It has been handed down along with "mushiyaki" (虫焼き, an event where rice straw is piled up in a rice field and burned) to pray for a bountiful harvest and the safety of one's family. According to legends, the origin of the Kamihinokinai Paper Balloon Festival is said to come from Hiraga Gennai, a scientist from Edo period Japan who passed on the principles of hot air balloons. Highlights of the Kamihinokinai Paper Balloon Festival Photo：Paper balloons The Kamihinokinai Paper Balloon Festival is an Intangible Folk Cultural Property designated as such by the city of Semboku, Akita. Lit paper balloons soar one after another into the cold winter night sky. Roughly 100 paper balloons of various sizes are said to be made by residents of the Kamihinokinai area. The highlight of the festival is the giant paper balloons. In recent years, the paper balloons are getting bigger and bigger. They are made of commercial Japanese paper about 1 meter wide and 3 to 12 meters long, pasted together. The sight of the giant paper balloons rising into the night sky as the fire inside them rages on is quite the spectacle. Be sure to bring a camera as well, because the lit paper balloons rising up into the night sky surrounded by the beautiful snowy landscape of Akita are sure to be popular on Instagram. [Video] 1:20 - Paper Balloons Soaring Up Through the Snow Kamihinokinai Paper Balloon Festival 2023 – Festival Dates and Times The Kamihinokinai Paper Balloon Festival is held every year from 6:00 p.m. on February 10th at the Nishiki Paper Balloon Square (紙風船館広場, Kami Fusen-kan Hiroba). In 2022, the event was canceled to prevent the spread of the coronavirus infection, but a small-scale paper balloon event was held by locals to carry on the culture. As of this time (December 2022), no official announcement has been made regarding the 2023 event. If you want to buy tickets and participate in the 2023 event, please check the event information in advance before going. Rice Paddy Art – Summer in Kamihinokinai! Photo：Rice paddy art Rice field art can be seen from late June to early September along the Akita Nairiku Line, which connects Takanosu Station in Kitaakita and Kakunodate Station in Semboku, Akita. There are works that can be viewed from the platform of Kamihinokinai Station as well. From April to November 2022, the Akita Nairiku Regional Public Transportation Cooperation Council and the Kitaakita Regional Development Bureau solicited design proposals for rice paddy art. 4 works will be selected as 2023 designs from a total of 342 entries. Rice planting will be conducted by early June in 2023 based on the design proposals. Among the selected works, there are even cute works drawn by elementary school students with colored pencils. The conditions for the design of the Kamihinokinai area is that the design must express the characteristics of the Kamihinokinai Paper Balloon Festival. The work for 2023 will depict a dog running happily with paper balloons rising into the night sky. Most likely an Akita Inu, the famous dog of the prefecture. It will be interesting to see how it looks as rice paddy art! Sightseeing in Kamihinokinai Photo：Dogtooth Violet Colony, Akita Prefecture Kamihinokinai, in Semboku, Akita, where the Kamihinokinai Paper Balloon Festival is held, is located to the northeast of Lake Tazawa, the deepest lake in Japan, and is a peaceful area surrounded by rich vegetation. Below is a list of some sightseeing spots in the area. ● Dogtooth Violet Colony (かたくり群生の郷, Katakuri Gunsei no Sato) Katakuri (dogtooth violet) is a bulbous plant of the lily family. At the Dogtooth Violet Colony, the largest colony of dogtooth violet in Japan, visitors can walk along a carpet of pretty flowers blooming at the foot of the mountain in spring. Check the Katakuri-kan (かたくり館) website for information regarding the blooming of the flowers and the opening of the facility. ● Semboku City Paper Baloon Museum (紙風船館, Kamifusenkan) This is a facility that displays the paper balloons used in the Kamihinokinai Paper Balloon Festival ● Lake Tazawa (田沢湖, Tazawako) Lake Tazawa, home to the legend of Princess Tatsuko, is a beautiful blue lake where visitors can enjoy various views from season to season. In addition to historic sites, there are plenty of leisure spots to enjoy here. Kamihinokinai Paper Balloon Festival Summary The Kamihinokinai Paper Balloon Festival is a winter festival in one of Japan's heavy snowfall areas. It's a lovely festival where paper balloons made by the locals soar in to the night sky. If you're traveling to Akita in winter, consider visiting to see the fantastic balloons rising into the night sky. Don't forget to warm up in the hot spring village around Lake Tazawa as well!

What Kind of Tourist Spot Is Kisarazu, Chiba Prefecture? This video, titled "[Kisarazu PR Video] A City for the Future｜English-Subtitled Version" (【木更津市PR動画】未来につながるまち　英字幕ver), was released by "Kisarazu Promo Channel" (きさらづプロモチャンネル). Kisarazu is known as the holy lands of the famous TV drama "Kisarazu Cat's Eye." It's also here in Kisarazu that the popular artist group "Kishidan" was formed. In this article, we'll introduce the charm of Kisarazu, a port city in Chiba prefecture, alongside the video. Recommended Tourist Spots in Kisarazu, Chiba Photo：Nakanoshima Bridge Nakanoshima Bridge in Kisarazu, Chiba prefecture, shown at 1:52 in the video, is the highest pedestrian bridge in Japan at 27 meters tall and 236 meters long. From the top of the crimson red bridge, you can see a magnificent view of the sea and Mt. Fuji in the distance, earning it the nickname "Lover's Sanctuary." Kisarazu's Egawa Beach is a hidden tourist spot where you can enjoy digging for clams in the early summer. If you want to enjoy activities in the outdoors, be sure to visit the sea in Kisarazu. Mitsui Outlet Park Kisarazu, where you can enjoy shopping, is another popular spot. Festivals in Kisarazu, Chiba Photo：Chiba Prefecture, Kisarazu Port Festival Fireworks Festival In Kisarazu, Chiba there are many festivals held throughout the year where you can experience Japanese culture. One that is especially famous is the event "Yassai Mossai" which is held on August 14th and 15th every year, which can be seen from 1:59 in the video. "Yassai Mossai," which is held as one of Kisarazu Port's festivals, is a historic festival where the people of the city dance and parade down the main street. The Kisarazu Port Festival Fireworks Festival is also held on the 15th, and the roadside where you can enjoy local gourmet food is crowded with people who come to see the awesome display. In addition, there's the annual festival of Yatsurugi Hachiman Shrine held in July, in which mikoshi (portable shrines) are carried around, as well as Nakajima Bontentate held in January, so be sure to visit them. Access To Kisarazu, Chiba Photo：Chiba Prefecture, Tokyo Bay Aqua Line The appeal of Kisarazu is that it only takes about 15 minutes to reach Kawasaki using the Tokyo Bay Aqua Line. There are also buses to and from Tokyo from Chiba Station via the Aqua Kaneda Bus Terminal. We also recommend the Umihotaru Parking Area for sightseeing around Kisarazu. The Ken-o Expressway also gives you easy access to Narita Airport. If you're going by car, stop by Roadside Station Kisarazu Umakuta-no-sato for sightseeing. Summary of the Easily Accessible Kisarazu, Chiba Photo：Chiba Prefecture, Tokyo Bay Aqua Line As you can see from the video we introduced, Kisarazu, Chiba is considered a tourist destination with excellent access. Be sure to stop by the many tourist spots and have a wonderful time! 【Official Website】Kisarazu Chiba Prefecture City Hall Website https://www.city.kisarazu.lg.jp/about/foreignlanguage.html

Togari Onsen Snow Resort This video, titled "Togari Onsen Snow Resort Promotional Video" (戸狩温泉スキー場プロモーションムービー), was uploaded by "戸狩温泉スキー場 Togari Onsen Snow Resort." It is a major winter leisure park where anyone, from beginners to advanced skiers, children to seniors, can enjoy themselves while enjoying the spectacular view of the Chikuma River below from the slopes. The video shows skiers and snowboarders racing down the three major slopes, "Pegasus," "Orion," and "Tondaira." Snow Strider Park - Enjoy Snow Biking at Togari Onsen Snow Resort! Photo：Snow bicycle Togari Onsen Snow Resort has a special slope called "Snow Strider Park" for snow bikes, which has become a popular winter activity in recent years. It's a new activity where you ride a fat bike downhill on a special 800-meter-long slope. While appreciating the spectacular view from above, you can enjoy an exciting bike ride on the wave, bank, and tree run courses. You can see and awesome view the snow bikes racing down the slopes at 0:38 and 2:10 in the video. It's said that snow bikes originated from snowy countries. During the cold winter months, the surface of the snow becomes so hard that it's possible to walk freely across it. The snow bike was made to ride on the hardened snow surface, and the bike further evolved into the fat bike, which can be rode on even soft powdery snow. Fat bikes are also available for rental, and you can take a lift up to the top of the slope, making them easy to enjoy. Toga Park, the Highlight of Togari Onsen Snow Resort – Kickers, Banks, and Boxes! Photo：Snowboarding One of the highlights Togari Onsen Snow Resort is Toga Park, a permanent course with kickers, banks, waves, and boxes that have been specifically designed for beginners and intermediate skiers and snowboarders. It’s a full-scale banked course that is even used in international competitions! At any time during the season, you can experience a powerful run on the 3D course that takes advantage of the natural terrain. Togari Onsen Snow Resort also has a permanent snowboard school and ski school taught by former professional snowboarders and skiers. The school is open to beginners as well as intermediate and advanced skiers who want to improve their skills. Delicious Food and Relaxing Hot Springs at Toga Source :YouTube screenshot When it comes to food at ski resort restaurants in Japan, many people think of the ramen and curry shown at 1:40 in the video! But if you've come to the foothills of the Kanda Mountain Range, spanning from Nagano to Niigata, we recommend taking advantage of the natural hot spring water and delicious local cuisine. Togari Onsen Snow Resort has two open-air hot spring baths, "Akatsuki-no-yu" and "Nozomi-no-yu," both of which are 100% free-flowing hot springs. The quality of the spring water is slightly alkaline, which is good for the skin, and is effective at relieving fatigue, and fighting neuralgia, and joint pain, making them ideal for relaxing after an exhilarating day of skiing or snowboarding! Please note, however, that Nozomi-no-yu is only open during the ski season. You can see the hot springs from 2:28 in the video. Furthermore, both Niigata and Nagano prefectures are treasure troves of food! We recommend sampling the delicious local cuisine and resting up in the hot springs. There are also stylish café bars near the slopes and restaurants in the rest areas, with French toast being a popular menu item. The Extensive Facilities at Togari Onsen Snow Resort Togari Onsen Snow Resort is a ski resort with a wide variety of courses, as the slopes leading to the two hot spring towns are connected via Tondaira Slope above. The total length of the slopes is 2,500 meters, making it a long course to enjoy. The largest slope is the Pegasus Slope located at Akatsuki-no-yu, and the central Gohon-matsu, Mimizuku, and Imoha courses can be accessed via the "Beetle 4" (1,037m) high-speed lift. There is also a children's slope and a kids' park for children, so families with small children can enjoy skiing and snowboarding without worry. During the winter season you can enjoy events, such as Igloo Hotel, the Togari Snow and Light Festival, and fireworks. Summary of Togari Onsen Snow Resort Photo：JR Iiyama Station, Nagano Prefecture To get to Togari Onsen Snow Resort in Iiyama City in northern Nagano Prefecture, take the Hokuriku Shinkansen from Iiyama Station to Togari Nozawa Onsen Station via the local line. If you're driving your own car, it's about 25 minutes from the Toyota/Iiyama IC on the Joetsu Expressway. There is a free daytime parking lot inside the facility as well. Be sure check Togari Onsen Snow Resort's official website for information on snow accumulation via live camera, accommodations, night skiing, lift ticket sales, and slope maps. You can find reviews and tour information from people who have actually visited Togari Onsen Snow Resort on various review sites as well, so be sure to take a look at them as well. Enjoy exciting winter activities at Togari Onsen Snow Resort! 【Official Website】Togari Onsen Snow Resort, Nagano, Winter https://togari.jp/winter/en/ 【TripAdvisor】Togari Onsen Snow Resort https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g1021317-d3681098-Reviews-Togari_Onsen_Ski_Resort-Iiyama_Nagano_Prefecture_Koshinetsu_Chubu.html

Yamanaka Onsen Hanamurasaki This movie is a promotional video for the luxurious ryokan Hanamurasaki at Yamanaka Hot Springs in Kaga City, titled ‘Luxury Ryokan Hanamurasaki at Yamanaka Hotsprings [4K60p]（花紫 山中温泉のおすすめ高級旅館 Luxury Ryokan Hanamurasaki at Yamanaka Hotspring [4K60p]）.’ It was created by ‘Japan Explorers.’ This article will provide you with all the attractions of ‘Yamanaka Onsen Hanamurasaki’ with which you can enjoy a traditional Japanese atmosphere with top-notch customer service. Hanamurasaki is highly regarded on various hotel/ryokan review and comparison sites. In the video, you’ll be shown the interior and exterior of Hanamurasaki, its dinner and rooms, and the most renown Yamanaka Hot Springs. Enjoy the attractions of Hanamurasaki! Rooms at Hanamurasaki Source :YouTube screenshot Hanamurasaki is a luxurious ryokan in Japan's Hokuriku Region (北陸地方, Hokuriku Chiho) located in Yamanaka Onsen Higashi Town (山中温泉東町, Yamanaka Onsen Higashimachi), Kaga City. Hanamurasaki also received a 5-star rating from a professional panel. It is easily accessible thanks to the free shuttle bus services running from Kaga Hot Spring Station (加賀温泉駅, Kaga Onsen Eki). There are 4 types of rooms: Standard Room, Spacious Room, Comfort Suite Spring, and the Comfort Suite Summer. All the rooms face the Kakusen Gorge (鶴仙渓, Kakusenkei), so you can enjoy a beautiful view of the valleys and rivers from your window, while enjoying the traditional Japanese atmosphere of a high-class ryokan. ‘Comfort Suite’ rooms are equipped with western-style rooms, so that foreign visitors can relax while feeling the traditional Japanese ambiance. The ‘Comfort Suite’ rooms have half-open-air baths that use 100% natural spring water and a variety of amenities. The rooms are introduced at 0:40 in the video. Hanamurasaki's Hot Springs Source :YouTube screenshot The hot springs, the main attraction of the ryokan, are introduced at 2:40 in the video. At the open-air observatory hot spring ‘Hirahira’ at Hanamurasaki, you can bathe while observing the beautiful Kakusen gorge. Having both a cypress bath as well as a rock bath, it is quite a luxurious space. Dining at Hanamurasaki Source :YouTube screenshot Hanamurasaki offers ‘A La Carte Kaiseki’ where you can enjoy Kaiseki (a type of appetizer), with the cuisine of your choice from a menu of about 50 different items. Each piece of tableware is also handmade, allowing you to enjoy the food with not just your mouth, but your eyes as well. We recommend trying out some of the seafood dishes. The impactful plate garnished with an entire snow crab is a sight to behold. For those of you who don't want to bother choosing your dishes one by one, a number of model courses, such as ‘Seasonal Kaiseki (旬懐石, Shun Kaiseki)’ and ‘Flower Kaiseki (華懐石, Hana Kaiseki)’, are available so you can enjoy Kaiseki Cuisine (懐石料理, Kaiseki Ryori) unlike that of any other ryokan. These meals are introduced from 0:52 in the video. The ryokan also has facilities such as ‘Stay Dining Nihon’ and ‘Bar Lounge.’ Sightseeing at Hanamurasaki! Photo：Kakusen Gorge riverbed In the Kakusen Gorge, which can be seen from Hanamurasaki, you can enjoy dining at the Kakusen riverbed. The Ayatori Bridge (あやとりはし, Ayatorihashi), based on the popular traditional Japanese game "Ayatori," is another popular, instagram-worthy tourist attraction in Kakusen Gorge. Yuge Street (ゆげ街道, Yuge Kaido), where Yamanaka Onsen Hanamurasaki is located, is lined with many gallery shops that sell traditional crafts, as well as restaurants, cafes, and shops that sell croquettes and other items that can be eaten while walking around. Summary of Hanamurasaki As stated before, the main drawing point of Hanamurasaki is relaxing in the traditional Japanese atmosphere. We hope we were able to convey the amazing service of this luxurious ryokan, as well as describe some of the attractions in the area. We highly recommend this ryokan for foreign visitors as well. Prices vary by plan and season, so be sure to visit the official homepage or travel sites for more information. ◆Yamanaka Hot Spring Hanamurasaki Information◆ 【Address】〒922-0114 17-1 Ho, 1, Yamanaka Onsen Higashi Town, Kaga City, Ishikawa Prefecture 【Access】15 minutes by car from JR Hokuriku Main Line, Kaga Onsen Station (Free shuttles buses provided) 【Parking】Free parking lot provided 【Telephone No】0761-78-0077 【Official Website】 Yamanaka Hot Spring 5-Star Hotel Hanamurasaki｜Kaga Onsen Village, Ishikawa Prefecture https://www.hana-mura.com/english/

Zojoji Temple, Minato, Tokyo: Video Introduction This video, titled "Zojo-ji temple Jizo Statues Part II - Tokyo - 4K Ultra HD," was uploaded by "TokyoStreetView - Japan The Beautiful." Have you ever heard of Tokyo's Zojoji Temple? It actually attracted a lot of attention when it hosted the funeral of former Prime Minister Shinzo Abe. Zojoji Temple is one of the seven head temples of the Jodo sect of Buddhism and is located in Minato, Tokyo. Its official name is Sanenzan Kodoin Zojoji (三縁山広度院 増上寺). The video opens with a shot of a gate, showing a large number of ema plaques with the image of Avalokitesvara (a Boddhisatva) on them. In one area of the temple is the Garden of Unborn Children where Jizo statues stand holding windmills, inviting visitors to an otherworldly place. Be sure to take a look at it in the video. It's not often you find a place like this in a big city like Tokyo. History and Highlights of Zojoji Temple Photo：Zojoji Temple, Minato, Tokyo Zojoji Temple is a Buddhist temple of the Jodo sect of Buddhism, that was founded in 1393 by Yuyo Shoso, the eighth head priest of the Jodo sect. It was chosen as a family temple of the Tokugawa family and developed dramatically during the Edo period (1603-1868 A.D.) with deep ties to the Tokugawa Shoguns. There are gravesites of six Tokugawa shoguns within the precincts of the temple, showing the depth of the temple's connection with the Tokugawa family. The Black Image of Amida Buddha, which Ieyasu is said to have taken with him when he went into battle and prayed for victory, is known as the Buddha of victory and luck. The black-colored amulet of victory (勝運のお守り, Shoun no O-Mamori), derived from the Black Image of Amida Buddha, has a powerful aura. Be sure to keep an eye out for them when visiting the temple. There are many Important Cultural Properties to see on the temple grounds, including the Daiden (大殿, Main Hall), Enko-Daishi Hall (圓光大師堂, Enkodaishi-den, a hall dedicated to the Buddhist monk Honen Shonin), and Ankokuden Hall (安国殿, Ankokuden), which houses the Black Image of Amida Buddha. The temple is also popular for its photogenic nature, where visitors can photograph both historic buildings and the modern Tokyo Tower in one shot. The Jizo of Child Rearing at Zojoji Temple Photo：The Jizo of Child Rearing at Zojoji Temple, Minato, Tokyo Located on the north side of the temple grounds, there are many Jizo of Child Rearing standing with pinwheels and wearing distinctive red knit hats and red bibs. The temple was built to pray for the safe and sound growth, and for the repose of the souls of children. On the third Sunday of April every year, a grand Buddhist service dedicated to the Jizo of Child Rearing is held. Access to Zojoji Temple Photo：JR Hamamatsucho Station Located in Shiba Park, Zojoji Temple is easily accessible from Odaiba and other tourist attractions in the Tokyo waterfront area. The nearest station, Hamamatsucho Station, is easily accessible from Haneda Airport, so many tourists from far away visit the temple. Zojoji Temple does not have a parking lot, so if you're coming by car, we recommend using public transportation as you will have to find a nearby parking lot. ◆Zojoji Temple◆ 【Address】4 Chome-7-35 Shibakoen, Minato City, Tokyo 105-0011 【Telephone】03-3432-1431 【Access】 Train: ・A 10-minute walk from Hamamatsucho Station via JR Lines and the Tokyo Monorail ・A 3-minute walk from Onarimon Station on the Toei Subway Mita Line, and a 3-minute walk from Shiba Park ・A 5-minute walk from Daimon Station on the Toei Subway Asakusa Line and Oedo Line ・A 7-minute walk from Akabanebashi Station on the Toei Subway Oedo Line ・A 10-minute walk from Kamiyacho Station on the Tokyo Metro Hibiya Line Summary of Zojoji Temple In this article, we introduced a video of the lovely Zojoji Temple. Watching the video, you will find it hard to believe that the temple is located amongst the skyscrapers central Tokyo. Zojoji Temple attracts many worshippers, making it a popular place for New Year's shrine visits in Tokyo. If you're sightseeing in Tokyo, be sure to check out Zojoji Temple as it's not far from Tokyo Tower! 【Official Website】Zojoji Temple 【TripAdvisor】Zojoji Temple

Kamakura: Video Introduction This video, titled "Kamakura, a Place of Prayer - Traditional Culture in Kamakura-" (祈りの地 鎌倉 -鎌倉の伝統文化-), was uploaded by "Ryo Hayashi" (林良). This work was submitted to the Kanagawa Prefecture Tourism Video Contest by "Ryo Hayashi", who uploads videos that capture the beautiful daily life of Kamakura. Kamakura is located in the central area of Kamakura, Kanagawa, in Japan's Kanto region. Known as the ancient capital of Japan, there are historical buildings and you can see the culture that Japan is famous for around the world. In addition to the spots in the video, there are many temples in Kamakura and it can be said to be a place of prayer. The video fully conveys the charms of Kamakura as a tourist destination. Be sure to watch the video to learn more about Kamakura, the land of prayer. Recommendation – The Great Buddha of Kamakura at Kotoku-in Temple During Cherry Blossom Season Photo：Cherry blossoms and the Kamakura Daibutsu When people think of Kamakura, the first shrine or temple that comes to mind is probably Kotoku-in Temple, home to the Great Buddha of Kamakura. It's so famous as a symbol that many people who don't know of Kotoku-in Temple will recognize it when they hear of the Great Buddha of Kamakura. The Great Buddha is approximately 11.3m tall and weighs around 121 tons. Although it's not as big as the Great Buddha of Nara Todaiji Temple, it is known as the second largest seated Great Buddha and is a National Treasure of Kamakura. In spring, you can also take pictures with the Great Buddha and cherry blossoms. A photo of the Great Buddha with cherry blossoms and blue skies is sure to look good on Instagram and make for a memorable shot! A Wedding Ceremony at Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine, Featured in the Historical Japanese Drama 'The 13 Lords of the Shogun' Photo：A wedding at Tsuruoka Hachimangu Shrine Tsuruoka Hachimangu is a shrine that represents Kamakura, and is the subject of the popular historical drama The 13 Lords of the Shogun. The enshrined deities are the 3 Hachiman deities (Emperor Ojin, Empress Jingu, and Himegami), and are said to bring benefits, such as increased luck and improvement in arts, and also ward off evil. Wakamiya Oji, a road that stretches from Yuigahama Beach to Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine, is also a famous tourist spot. You can also watch the video of the festival held at Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine, the enshrinement anniversary festival and the Sachiakari ceremony. Sachiakari is a night wedding ceremony at Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine. It is held for only one group per day in the magical precincts illuminated by bonfires. Weddings held in the evening are very rare in Japan. [Video] 0:26 - Enshrinement Anniversary Festival, Sachiakari Ceremony Menkake Gyoretsu – A Festival at Goryo Shrine Photo：Menkake Gyoretsu, a unique festival at Goryo Shrine, Kamakura Take a look at the video to see what Menkake Gyoretsu (masked procession) at Goryo Shrine looks like. This festival, which has been designated as an Intangible Cultural Property of the prefecture, is said to be based on an event held at Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine's Hojokai. This procession is depicted in the Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Festival Procession Map at the Tokyo National Museum. If you rub the big belly of the big-belled okame (person wearing an Okame mask), it's believed you will be blessed with easy childbirth. [Video] 0:35 - Goryo Shrine's Menkake Gyoretsu Other Shrines and Temples in Kamakura Photo：Kenchoji Temple, one of the Five Temples of Kamakura Kamakura is home to many temples. Kamakura once prospered as the center of the Kamakura Shogunate, the first samurai government, and samurai culture flourished there throughout the Kamakura period (1185 to 1333 AD). Zen Buddhism was especially valued in samurai society, and Kenchoji Temple, Engakuji Temple, Jufukuji Temple, Jochiji Temple, and Jomyoji Temple are known as the Five Temples of Kamakura. In addition, there's Gokuraku-ji Temple and Anyo-in Temple, which are related to the Kamakura Shogunate, Ashikaga Takauji's Choju-ji Temple, and Ryuho-ji Temple which has ties to the Later Hojo clan. Meigetsu-in Temple, which has a deep connection with the samurai government, is also known as a hydrangea temple. The garden's 2,500 hydrangeas are in full bloom from early to late June. A Serene Zen Meditation Experience at a Zen Buddhist Temple Zen Buddhist temples offer a variety of experiences. For example, you can experience Zen meditation at Hokokuji Temple, and experience sutra copying and shabutsu (写仏, tracing the image of Buddha) at Hasedera Temple. Kenchoji also holds zazen meditation sessions that you can participate in twice a year. Komyo-ji Temple is also known as Neko-dera (猫寺, lit. "Cat Temple") because cats are taken care of by the temple residents and neighbors. It's known as a place where you can enjoy seasonal flowers together with the cats on the temple grounds. Highlights and Recommended Sightseeing Spots in Kamakura Photo：The Enoden Line and railroad crossing in front of Kamakura High School, Kamakura, Kanagawa Kamakura as a place of prayer is a tourist attraction visited by many people each year. Thanks to the historical drama it's becoming even more popular this year. The most famous station is the Enoshima Electric Railway's (commonly known as Enoden) Kamakura Kokomae station. There is a famous railroad crossing that appears in the opening of the anime Slam Dunk here, and it is visited by anime fans from all over the world. The Kamakura Museum of Literature is fashionable and displays manuscripts of poets, as well as a variety of books. Roses bloom in spring and autumn, and the collaboration with the Western-style building from Japan's early Showa period is incredibly photogenic. Shichirigahama Beach is popular among yacht and windsurfing enthusiasts, and Koshigoe beach is also popular during the sea bathing season. Wakaenoshima, the oldest harbor construction site, is also a place that history buffs should visit at least once. Furthermore, the natural beauty created by wave erosion on the western side of the Miura Peninsula is currently attracting attention. For the Best Food in Kamakura, Head to Komachi-Dori! If you want to enjoy some delicious food, head over to Komachi Street. There are many restaurants and cafes, where you can enjoy whitebait dishes and dishes using vegetables grown in Kamakura, as well as do some souvenir shopping. Also, at the beginning of October each year, Oktoberfest is held. You can experience a slice of German culture with refreshing beer, food stalls, and exciting stage performances. At the Kanagawa Prefectural Ofuna Botanical Garden, visitors can enjoy the nature of each season, including plum blossoms, cherry blossoms, and autumn leaves. Summary – Power Spots in Kamakura, a Place of Prayer Photo：Kamakura Have you seen the video of Kamakura, the Land of Prayer? Kamakura, an ancient city with a long history, is actually creating opportunities for regional revitalization with a unique business model called "Machi no Coin." Kamakura City has a population of approximately 173,000 and is visited by approximately 7.38 million tourists annually. You can also explore the historical and cultural town on foot or rent a bicycle. There are also many hiking courses with different attractions and levels for people of all experience levels. If you get tired, you can take a rest at a hot spring inn too. How about recharging your mind and body in a wonderful city with history, culture, and power spots? 【TripAdvisor】Kamakura, Kanagawa https://www.tripadvisor.com/Tourism-g303156-Kamakura_Kanagawa_Prefecture_Kanto-Vacations.html

Nagasaki Lantern Festival: Video Introduction This video, titled "[Nagasaki Lantern Festival] Winter 2023 – Let's Meet in Nagasaki!" (【長崎ランタンフェスティバル】2023年冬　長崎で、会いましょう。), was uploaded by "Nagasaki Tourism" (長崎観光). The Nagasaki Lantern Festival features a mighty dragon dance and a parade inspired by the Qing Dynasty New Year's parade. The festival's heroic spectacle is paired with the fantastic lantern lights. At night, the streets of Nagasaki are filled by people coming to visit the Nagasaki Lantern Festival, with around 15,000 lanterns of various shapes and sizes adding color and vibrancy to the city. Check out the video below to see some of the fascinating scenes from a previous Nagasaki Lantern Festival. Nagasaki Lantern Festival – The History and Origins of the Event! Photo：Nagasaki Lantern Festival The Nagasaki Lantern Festival was originally known as the "Shunsetsusai" (春節祭, Lunar New Year) of Nagasaki Shinchi Chinatown, one of the three major Chinatowns in Japan. Shunsetsusai is an event to celebrate the Chinese New Year, which was held by the people of Nagasaki Shinchi Chinatown to promote the area. In 1994, the festival was expanded and its name was changed to "Nagasaki Lantern Festival." It has since become a winter tradition in Nagasaki because of its many attractions, such as authentic Chinese dances and the streets decorated beautifully with lanterns. The lantern decorations are derived from the Yuanxiao Festival (Chinese Lantern Festival). In Japan, the Lantern Festival corresponds to "Koshogatsu" (小正月, lit. "Little New Year"). During the Nagasaki Lantern Festival, both Nagasaki Shinchi Chinatown and the center of Nagasaki City are decorated with colorful lanterns. Nagasaki Lantern Festival 2023 Schedule – Event Dates, Lighting Hours, Etc. Photo：Nagasaki Lantern Festival, Nagasaki Shinchi Chinatown Due to the novel coronavirus, the Nagasaki Lantern Festival was cancelled in 2021 and 2022. However, it has been decided that the festival will be held in 2023. The festival will be held from January 22 to February 5, 2023, during the Chinese New Year, as in previous years. Various events will be held at different venues, including Nagasaki Shinchi Chinatown, Chuo Park, Minato Park, and Nagasaki Koshibyo (長崎孔子廟, Nagasaki Confucius Shrine). The lantern lighting ceremony will be held on January 22 from 5:30 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. at the Shinchi Chinatown and Central Park venues. Witness the moment when the heart of Nagasaki City is engulfed in fantastic lights. The lighting period is from January 22 to February 5, the same period as the festival itself. Events and Attractions at the Nagasaki Lantern Festival Photo：Nagasaki Confucius Shrine, Nagasaki Lantern Festival The Nagasaki Lantern Festival features a variety of events at each venue, so there's tons to see and do. Below is a summary of some of the attractions at each venue that you can enjoy. ・Tojin Yashiki Venue (唐人屋敷会場, Tojin Yashiki Kaijo) At the Tojin Yashiki venue, there is a candlelight prayer tour of the four halls. It's said to bring good luck and make wishes come true for those who visit Dojin Hall (土神堂, Dojin-dou), Tenko Hall (天后堂, Tenko-dou), Kannon Hall (観音堂, Kanon-dou), and Fukken Hall (福建会館, Fukken Kaikan) and light a candle. Candles can be purchased at the Dojin Hall reception desk (11:00 a.m. - 9:00 p.m. ※Saturdays and Sundays from 10:00 a.m.). January 22 - February 2; the participation fee is 500 yen. ・Nagasaki Confucius Shrine Venue (長崎孔子廟会場, Koshibyo Kaijo) During the Nagasaki Lantern Festival, Nagasaki Confucius Shrine will be the site of a daily mask show that is so unique it's said to be a Chinese state secret. The masks that the performers use change in the blink of an eye and are one of the highlights of the Nagasaki Lantern Festival. Also, "Nagasaki Love Lanterns," which can be used to pray for love, can be purchased and dedicated for 1,000 yen each. ・Minato Park Venue (湊公園会場, Minato Kouen Kaijo) The main venue of the Nagasaki Lantern Festival is the Minato Park venue. Large sculptures decorated with the Chinese zodiac sign of the year can be seen on display here. This photogenic venue is sure to be a hit on Instagram! ・Shinchi Chinatown Venue (新地中華街会場, Shinchi Chukagai Kaijo) The Doza River in front of Shinchi Chinatown is lined with lovely peach-colored lanterns, creating an exotic atmosphere. If you're heading to the venue from Minato Park, follow the lanterns with the character "福" (Fuku, "luck") upside down as landmarks, and you won't get lost. ・Hamanmachi Venue (浜んまち会場, Hamanmachi Kaijo) This venue features an art installation of Yue Lao, the old man under the moon, who is the god of marriage and love in Chinese mythology. It's popular among couples. ・Nagasaki Prefectural Art Museum The Nagasaki Prefectural Art Museum hosts a Sky Lantern event, where lanterns float in the sky like hot-air balloons; this event is held only on January 22, and visitors can purchase and release their own lanterns. Hours are from 3:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. The price for one lantern is 6,500 yen for advance purchases (7,000 yen for lanterns purchased on the day of the event). Exciting Dragon Dances and Beautiful Erhu Music Photo：A dragon dance at the Nagasaki Lantern Festival Popular events, such as the dragon dance, which began as a Chinese ritual to pray for rain, and erhu performances with their gentle and beautiful tones, will be held according to the crowds and other factors to prevent the spread of the novel coronavirus. If you happen to see any of the above attractions during the event, it's considered lucky! Be sure to keep an eye out for event information on social media. The venue for the Qing Dynasty New Year's parade, one of the main attractions, is currently still being determined. With so many events and other attractions, it may not be possible to visit all of them in a single day! Enjoy the Delicious Food Stalls at the Nagasaki Lantern Festival! Photo：Hatoshi, a local dish from Nagasaki The Nagasaki Lantern Festival is full of numerous events and attractions, but another thing to look forward to is the food stalls where you can try delicious food. Visitors can enjoy snacking on popular Chinese dishes at the stalls in Shinchi Chinatown and at Minato Park. One of the most popular foods is Kakuni Man (角煮まん), which is a steamed bun filled with simmered pork cubes. The Momo no Kakuni Man (桃の角煮まん), which is shaped like a peach and is popular on Japanese Instagram. Another culinary delight unique to Nagasaki is "Shippoku Cuisine," a fusion of Chinese and Japanese cuisine, and one of the most popular dishes you can find at the food stalls is hatoshi. Hatoshi is a deep-fried breaded shrimp paste sandwiched between two pieces of bread, crispy on the outside and tender on the inside! They are popular with both adults and children alike. In addition, Chinese snacks, such as sesame dumplings and ma lai gao (Cantonese sponge cake), can also be enjoyed, so be sure to stop by the food stalls for some tasty treats. Nagasaki Lantern Festival Summary If you still haven't checked out the video of the Nagasaki Lantern Festival and all of its attractions, be sure to do so! The Nagasaki Lantern Festival will finally be back after 3 years, and the city of Nagasaki will be decorated with fantastic lanterns. During the festival, the city of Nagasaki is expected to be very crowded. If you book a hotel or other accommodation nearby, you'll be able to fully enjoy the festival without worrying about the time. The nearest station to Minato Park is Shinchi Chinatown Station (新地中華街駅, Shinchi Chukagai Eki). The Nagasaki Lantern Festival is an exciting event full of photogenic spots and tantalizing dishes. If you're considering planning a trip to Kyushu or a sightseeing trip to Japan, be sure to check it out! 【Official Website】Nagasaki Lantern Festival - Official Tourism Website for Nagasaki City 【TripAdvisor】Nagasaki Lantern Festival

Harie Shozu no Sato - The Village of Living Water This 4K video, titled "Harie Shozu-no-sato - Shiga - 針江生水の郷 - 4K Ultra HD," was released by "TokyoStreetView - Japan The Beautiful." It introduces magnificent views of "Harie Shozu no Sato," the Village of Living Water, a popular sightseeing destination in Takashima, Shiga. In Harie Shozu no Sato in Shiga Prefecture, the beautiful local spring water has long been used by the people in everyday life. This article will introduce tourist information for the Village of Living Water, a place where people live in harmony with nature. Be sure to follow along with the video! The Village of Living Water in Shiga Prefecture Source :YouTube screenshot The Harie district of Takashima, Shiga, a place not far from Shirahige Shrine, is also called "Shozu no Sato" and "Junsui no Sato" in Japanese. The spring water in this area comes from underground, and has existed for more than 200 years. In 2015, Harie Shozu no Sato was selected as a Japanese heritage site under "Lake Biwa and its Surrounding Waters." Let's take a look at the beautiful scenery of the Village of Living Water. You can see the beautiful water flowing along the side of the road from 0:08 in the video. The Wisdom of Our Ancestors Passed Down in the Village of Living Water Source :YouTube screenshot A Kabata is system that uses water from a spring for domestic use. The cleanest water upstream is used as drinking water, and downstream there is a small pool for washing vegetables. This can be seen from 0:50 in the video. Also shown at 2:08 in the video, you can see how carp are kept in the waterway, downstream of where the dishes are washed, and they eat leftover food to clean the water. The Uehara Tofu Shop (上原豆腐店) along the riverside, which can be seen from 2:57 in the video, sells exquisite tofu chilled in the waterways, so be sure to try some and enjoy the local flavors of the area during your visit. Hidden Gems and Famous Locations in Harie Source :YouTube screenshot The Biwako Visitors Bureau, a public interest incorporated association, offers tours such as the "Kabata and Townscape Course" and the "Satoyama Lakeside Course." If you're looking to go sightseeing in the Village of Living Water, we recommend applying for a guided tour and seeing the recommended routes. There is also a hotel in Harie that has been renovated from an old Japanese-style house. Staying at an inn like this is a great way to experience Japanese culture. Summary of Harie Shozu no Sato - The Village of Living Water Source :YouTube screenshot The area around Harie Shozu no Sato is great for those looking to experience the beauty of nature and traditional Japanese culture. Take a wonderful sightseeing trip to enjoy the magnificent scenery of Harie Shozu no Sato, a place where beautiful water flows through the village. 【Tripadvisor】Harie Shozu no Sato - The Village of Living Water https://www.tripadvisor.com/ShowUserReviews-g1023578-d6611968-r247141189-Harie_Shozu_no_Kabata-Takashima_Shiga_Prefecture_Kinki.html

The Illumination at Toki no Sumika at Gotemba Kogen Resort: Video Introduction This video, titled "2017 GOTENBA JAPAN Christmas Lights SONY A7S2＆Gimbal【Low light】," was uploaded by "るいぼの記憶." This video shows the winter illumination at Toki no Sumika, a hotel at Gotemba Kogen Resort, located in Gotemba, Shizuoka in Japan's Tokai region, as well as Suichu Rakuen Aquarium (水中楽園アクアリウム, The Aquarium of Underwater Paradise), one of the largest aquariums for goldfish in Japan. The illumination, which began with the simple "Tunnel of Light," has grown in scale and popularity to the point that it is now a winter tradition at Gotemba Kogen. Before you visit this shining attraction and surrender yourself to a maze of lights, be sure to check out the video to see what it's actually like! Toki no Sumika – Attractions of the Facility at Gotemba Kogen Resort Photo：Slow House Twinkle, Toki no Sumika Toki no Sumika is located about 10 minutes by car from the Susono Interchange on the Tomei Expressway at Gotemba Kogen Resort. The grand, open-air site, with a total area of approximately 82 acres (about 7 Tokyo Domes), is fully equipped with natural hot springs, lodging facilities, a variety of restaurants, stores, and sports facilities. It's a resort complex with a variety of activities for guests to enjoy. The winter illumination is especially popular, and many bus tours are available as well. If you're staying at the resort, you can receive a coupon for booking early. There is a wide variety of ways to have fun and spend time at Gotemba Kogen Resort's Toki no Sumika, including fountain illuminations, the Bell of Love, a mini-futsal court, bouldering (reservations required), and the meditation hall (reservations required). It's a great place for day trips and one-night stays. It's also a destination that we recommend for family trips, holiday trips with a loved one, or an enjoyable athletic trip with friends, as you can choose from different types of lodges to suit your needs. Photo：Goldfish Among the many photogenic spots at Toki no Sumika, we recommend Suichu Rakuen Aquarium, one of the largest goldfish aquariums in Japan. This fantasy space decorated with lights is open until 7:00 p.m., so guests can relax and unwind after a day of sightseeing around Mt. Fuji. [Video] 2:12 - Suichu Rakuen Aquarium, Goldfish Town In the museum there are a number of interesting aquariums where visitors can view the goldfish. The various aquariums allow visitors to enjoy a unique atmosphere. Admiring the individuality of each aquarium is sure to make for a memorable time. We also recommend visiting Tree Forest (ツリーの森, Tsuri no Mori), where events in which visitors can participate are held. Visitors write their wishes on the leaves provided and tie them to the tree, in a winter version of the Tanabata Festival. Many visitors enjoy the illuminations while writing their wishes on the leaves. Highlights of the Toki no Sumika Illumination and the Fountain Show Photo：The tunnel of lights at Toki no Sumika On October 8, 2022, the lighting ceremony for the Toki no Sumika illumination was held at Gotemba Kogen Resort. The theme for 2022, the event's 21-year anniversary, is "ROYALROAD." The illumination will be held until March 12, 2023. One of the reasons why the Toki no Sumika illumination "Hikari no Sumika" is so popular is that it can be viewed free of charge even by those not staying at Toki no Sumika or Gotemba Kogen Resort. Another great point is that free shuttle buses to the event are available from nearby JR stations (Mishima Station, Susono Station, etc.). Even if it rains on the day you visit, visitors can still enjoy viewing the dazzling illuminations. Royal Hill – A Recommended Paid Attraction at the Toki no Sumika Illumination Photo：The fountain show at Toki no Sumika The Light of Versailles, the largest fountain laser show in Japan, is performed at the fountain square of Royal Palace Hill (王宮の丘, Oukyu no Oka), a paid area, and the fountains shoot up to an astonishing 150 meters in the air, the highest of any fountain in Japan. A typical building is said to be about 3 meters tall per floor, making it equivalent to the height of a 50-story building. It's truly an incredible display! The dazzling lights light up the splashing water, created an awesome sight that will have you forgetting to blink! [Video] 4:38 - The Dazzling Fountain Show The fountain shows are held every 20 minutes and may be cancelled or rescheduled depending on weather conditions, such as strong winds, etc. It's recommended to check the schedule before visiting in case of inclement weather. If you're aiming to take some photos for Instagram, we recommend leaving some distance between yourself and the fountains to capture the entirety of the show. Summary of Toki no Sumika, a Gotemba Kogen Resort Illumination Photo：Toki no Sumika, Gotemba Kogen Resort Gotemba Kogen Resort Toki no Sumika, a resort offering a spectacular view of the World Heritage Site Mt. Fuji, has tons of activities for guests to enjoy. Because of the vast area where it's located, many dog lovers enjoy coming here with their pets. Do keep in mind that dogs are not allowed in the restaurants, hot spring facilities, and other buildings, but you can rent cages (available for a fee, even for day trip guests) or stay at a pet-friendly hotel, so you can have a good time with your best friend. The Toki no Sumika Illumination is a fantastic sight that can only be seen during the winter months in Gotemba, Shizuoka. It's a place where you can forget about the chill in the air and enjoy gazing at the illuminations for as long as you like. Be sure to add it to your winter travel plans and enjoy some time with your loved ones. It's an experience you won't regret! ◆Gotemba Kogen Resort Toki no Sumika Illumination 'Hikari no Sumika'◆ Theme: ROYAL ROAD – In Search of Excitement 【Address】719, Koyama Gotemba-shi, Shizuoka-ken 412-0033, Japan 【Event Period】10/8/2022 (Sat.) - 3/12/2023 (Sun.) 【Lighting Hours】(1st schedule) 10/8 - 1/9, 4:30 p.m. - 10:00 p.m. (2nd schedule) 1/10 - 3/12, 5:00 p.m. - 9:30 p.m. 【Access】 Train: 5 minutes by taxi from JR Iwanami Station, 50 minutes by free shuttle bus from JR Mishima Station. Car: Approximately 10 minutes from the Susono IC on the Tomei Expressway 【Parking】Available 【Admission Fee】Free (Some paid areas)

Introducing Train Suite Shikishima This video, titled "JR East, Inside the Luxury Sleeper Train, Shikishima," was released by "Jiji Tsushin Trending News." TRAIN SUITE Shikishima is a "cruise train" that departs and arrives at Ueno Station, which began service on May 1, 2017. The concept of the train is "深遊探訪" which roughly means "In Search of Fun." In recognition of its stylish atmosphere, the Shikishima received the "Good Design Best 100" award. What is Train Suite Shikishima? Source :YouTube screenshot The train is 10 cars long and, being that it's a luxury sleeper train, all of the furnishings in the guest rooms are top-notch. They focus on high-quality hospitality, with things like custom-made beech sofas, sunken kotatsu, and cypress baths. There is also a lounge car and a dining car, and the entire train is barrier-free. You can enjoy amazing views from the large window in the observation car. The cars are the E001 series, which were made exclusively for this train, and the exterior paint is a specially formulated "Shikishima Gold." The Rooms and Lounge on the Train Suite Shikishima Source :YouTube screenshot Cars 2, 3, 4, 8, and 9 on the Shikishima are suites, and Cars 1 and 10 are observation cars called VIEW TERRACE Kizashi and VIEW TERRACE Ibuki. You can see the inside of the suite cars from 2:12 in the video. Car 5, LOUNGE KOMOREBI, which can be seen from 0:53 in the video, is a lounge furnished with craftwork from Eastern Japan, reminiscent of trees and shrubs. Car 6 is a dining room with a chandelier where you can enjoy a luxurious course meal. Car 7 has a Shikishima suite and deluxe suite. The Cost To Ride the Train Suite Shikishima Train Suite Shikishima is a super-luxury train with rooms starting at ¥300,000 (~$3,000 USD) for 1 night. Shikishima is kind of a hotel-type train that can be used like a package tour, thus the steep price. Although most people won't have the chance to ride it, there are some events held and plastic models sold at the Railway Museum, so be sure to check these out as well. Summary of the Train Suite Shikishima Photo：Train Suite Shikishima Train Suite Shikishima, operated by JR East, is a luxury sleeper train that makes for an amazing ride. Staying on the train is expensive, but it's popular and tickets sell out incredibly quickly. The one-night course departs from Ueno, travels toward Koshu and Shinshu, and returns to Ueno. There are also 2 night and 3 night courses as well. The price for a 3 night course with a suite is ¥800,000 (~$8,000 USD). Be sure to check out the JR East official website for more information about operating dates, routes, and timetables for Train Suite Shikishima. Enjoy the feeling of luxury train travel through the video! 【Official Website】TRAIN SUITE SHIKISHIMA JE EAST JAPAN https://www.jreast.co.jp/shiki-shima/en/