The Ryujin Gorge Koinobori Festival: Video Introduction This video, titled "The Ryujin Gorge Koinobori Festival" (竜神峡鯉のぼりまつり), was uploaded by "Suzuki Hideto." Ryujin Gorge is a beautiful V-shaped gorge located in Hitachiota, Ibaraki, in Japan's Kanto region. The gorge is even more crowded during the Golden Week holiday season, when it's dazzling with fresh greenery. Around 1,000 koinobori (carp streamers) can be seen swimming through the sky around the Ryujin Gorge, with the Ryujin Suspension Bridge at the heart of the action. This spectacular sight has become popular among many tourists for its picturesque views. The video shows the spectacular sight of the Ryujin Gorge and koinobori swimming in the sky via aerial views, so be sure to check it out as you read along. Where Ryujin Suspension Bridge Is Located + Height & Other Information About the Bridge Photo：Mori no Kane, Ryujin Suspension Bridge Ryujin Gorge is located in Okukuji Prefectural Nature Park in Hitachiota, Ibaraki. Ryujin Suspension Bridge was built over the Ryujin Dam, which was constructed to dam the Ryujin River that flows through Ryujin Gorge. The bridge is 375 meters long, making it one of the longest pedestrian-only bridges in Japan. Visitors can also enjoy the thrilling view from the observation windows installed at three locations on the bridge, which are up to 100 meters high. On the other side of the Ryujin Suspension Bridge is the symbolic "Mori no Kane" (木精の鐘, lit. 'Bell of the Tree Spirits') with three types of bells: love, hope, and happiness. The bell of love is especially popular among couples, as it requires two people to press a button together. If they ring the bell together, it's said that their wishes may come true. The main attraction of the Ryujin Suspension Bridge is the breathtaking natural scenery of the mountains and valleys. The beautiful sound of the bells echoing through Ryujin Gorge is one of the highlights of the bridge. The History of the Ryujin Gorge Koinobori Festival Photo：Koinobori at Ryujin Suspension Bridge, Hitachiota, Ibaraki The Ryujin Gorge is especially busy during the "Ryujin Gorge Koinobori Festival" held from late April to mid-May. Approximately 1,000 koinobori are on display around the Ryujin Suspension Bridge, and visitors can see them swimming through the sky over the entire Ryujin Gorge area. The Ryujin Gorge Koinobori Festival began in 1989. When the construction of the Ryujin Suspension Bridge began, wire ropes were stretched over the right and left banks of the Ryujin Dam, and koinobori were attached to them. Today, it has become a major event that attracts more than 30,000 tourists, and the parking lot with 265 parking spaces is packed even before 8:30 am. Although it's convenient to come by car, it may be better to use public transportation, such as buses or trains. Due to the spread of the new coronavirus infection, the festival was cancelled for two consecutive years, but in 2022, it was held from April 29 to May 15, followed by 2023, from April 29 to May 14. The festival is usually held during Golden Week each year. For more information on the 2024 Ryujin Gorge Koinobori Festival, please check the official website or the official Instagram of the Ryujin Suspension Bridge. During the festival, a photo contest will be held in addition to a market of wild vegetables and other products. In addition, on Children's Day, children of junior high school age and under will be admitted free of charge, whereas normally there is a crossing fee of 320 yen for adults and 210 yen for children. In addition to the "Carp Streamer Festival," Ryujin Gorge holds seasonal events such as the "Wind Bell Festival" from early to mid-August, where 1,000 wind bells are displayed; the "Autumn Leaves Festival" from early to late November, which includes a stamp rally and a product exhibition to enjoy autumn tastes; and the "Hitachi-Ota Soba Festival" in February, where visitors can enjoy Hitachi-Aki soba noodles. In February, the "Hitachiota Soba Festival" is held, where visitors can enjoy Hitachiota's autumn soba noodles. Bungee Jumping, Canoeing, & Other Exciting Outdoor Activities at Ryujin Gorge! Photo：Bungee jumping at Ryujin Gorge Ryujin Gorge, widely known for its koinobori festival, is also a popular place for outdoor recreation. The bungee jump from the Ryujin Suspension Bridge is known as the highest bungee jump in Japan. There are only a few bungees in the world that can be jumped from a height of 100 meters, and more than 10,000 jumpers visit the bridge every year to experience the thrill of the jump. Canoeing tours are a great way to enjoy the beauty of nature reflected on the nearby lake while looking up at the Ryujin Suspension Bridge. There are lectures in advance so that canoe and kayak beginners and families can also enjoy the tour and experience the beautiful nature of the Ryujin Gorge while canoeing. The Ryujin Café, located right next to the reception desk of the Ryujin Suspension Bridge, is a recommended spot for grabbing a bite to eat. On the terrace seats, you can enjoy a "Natto Waffle" and "Ryujin Dam Curry" while appreciating the great nature of the Ryujin Gorge and the Ryujin Suspension Bridge. Consider stopping here for lunch or just to take a break. Enjoy a Sea of Clouds Over Ryujin Gorge at the Akaiwa Observatory or Discover the Scenic Views of the Area While Hiking! Photo：Autumn leaves at Ryujin Gorge, Hitachiota, Ibaraki In the early morning on a cold day, a sea of clouds can be seen from the Ryujin Suspension Bridge over Lake Ryujin, a dammed lake in the Ryujin Gorge. From the Akaiwa Observatory, you can see the entire Ryujin Gorge area, including the Ryujin Suspension Bridge. The Akaiwa Observatory is located on top of a mountain roughly 1 km away from the second parking lot of Ryujin Gorge. The scenic views from the observatory are unforgettable. During autumn, you can see the Ryujin Gorge and the Ryujin Suspension Bridge floating in a sea of clouds with the mountains dyed beautiful shades of orange and red in the background. The photogenic views are sure to look good on Instagram, so be sure to bring a camera. There's also an entrance to a hiking course from Parking Lot 2, so keep this in mind if you're looking to take a walk to feel the great outdoors in spring or autumn. What are Koinobori? Koinobori (鯉のぼり), meaning "carp streamer," are carp-shaped windsocks that date back to Edo-Period Japan (1603 AD -1868 AD). In modern Japan, they are flown to celebrate Children's Day, a holiday during Japan's Golden Week that celebrates the healthy growth of children. The reason for the carp is due to an ancient Chinese legend that tells of a carp that climbed the rapids of the Yellow River and became a dragon. This is said to symbolize the growth of children. Koinobori are generally painted in three colors: Black Black represents water, something that all living things need. Blue Blue represents spring, the season of life, and wood. Red Red represents summer and fire. Summer is the season with the most sunlight, and this symbolizes the nurturing of life. Two other common colors are yellow and white. All of these colors also represent the five elements in Japanese Buddhist thought. Additionally, koinobori are hung above houses in Japan with children, with black at the top, symbolizing the father, followed by red, symbolizing the mother, and then blue, etc., which symbolize the children. Summary of the Ryujin Gorge The 1,000 koinobori swimming in the sky of Ryujin Gorge is a spectacular sight. Watching the video, it's easy to understand why so many tourists come to the area for the koinobori festival. In addition, the Ryujin Gorge can be enjoyed in a variety of ways, including outdoor recreation and hiking. Near the Ryujin Suspension Bridge is Fukuroda Onsen Omoide Roman-kan, a hot spring inn. Staying at a hotel or ryokan and relaxing at the hot springs is another great way to have an enjoyable trip. The Koinobori Festival is held at the spectacular Ryujin Gorge. We encourage you to visit with your family during Japan's Golden Week holiday and make some unforgettable memories! 【Trip Advisor】Ryujin Gorge

Video introduction of "Keisei Rose Garden" in Yachiyo City, Chiba Prefecture This video, titled "4k Most Beautiful Rose Garden in the World Keisei Rose Garden"(4k Most Beautiful Rose Garden in the World 京成バラ園 ローズガーデン） was uploaded by "Discover Nippon." This 4K video introduces the Keisei Rose Garden, one of the best rose theme parks in Japan with 10,000 roses of 1,600 varieties in bloom. The fragrant interior of the garden shows a variety of expressions each time you visit, with different atmospheres depending on the blooming conditions and weather conditions, even for the same rose variety. Roses floating in the light, roses swaying in the wind, roses spreading far and wide like rippling waves, and roses whose fragrance seems to be wafting through the air. Please take your time and enjoy the video. Roses in Japanese Culture Roses are a popular flower in Japan, with places like the Keisei Rose Garden creating their own varieties of roses. The Japanese word for rose is "bara" (バラ), and in the Japanese language of flowers, roses mean "beauty" and "love," but different colors of roses have different meanings as well. For example, white roses mean "purity," while yellow roses mean "friendship" and "devotion." Keisei Rose Garden Entrance Fees, When to Visit, and Time Required Photo：Keisei Rose Garden, Yachiyo, Chiba Next, we'll take a look at the best time to see the roses at the Keisei Rose Garden, as well as the required time peruse the garden and admission fees. ●When Are the Roses at Their Best? There are two types of roses in the Keisei Rose Garden: spring roses and autumn roses. The best time to see the spring roses is from mid-May to early June, and the best time to see the autumn roses is from mid-October to early November. The best time to see the roses may vary depending on the weather, so please check the website or social media for information before visiting. [Video] 0:09 - Colorful Roses Blooming in May ●How Long Does It Take to Tour Keisei Rose Garden It takes at least one hour to see all the roses blooming in the 30,000-square-meter garden. On an average year, when the roses are in full bloom, the park is often crowded, and it's not uncommon for it to take up to 2 hours to tour the garden. If you get caught up looking at the roses and want to take pictures, it may take longer than expected. Please allow plenty of time for your visit. ●Admission Fees Ticket prices vary depending on the blooming season. [General Admission] April 21 to June 30: Adults (high school students and older): 1,500 yen October 1 - November 30: Adults (high school students and older) 1,200 yen Other periods: Adults (high school students and older) 500 yen ※Junior high school students and younger are free of charge (but must be accompanied by a parent or guardian). ●A maximum of 5 children may accompany one adult. Children cannot enter the park alone. For educational visits, please inquire and confirm separately. ●Discount rates are available by presenting the smartphone application "Mirairo ID." Discounts are available only in May, June, October, and November. Discounts cannot be combined with other discounts or discounts based on blooming conditions. ●Annual Passport: 4,000 yen 1,000-yen discount for Tomonokai members. Membership cards must be presented. Yachiyo Citizens Discount: 500-yen discount. Proof of address must be presented. Discounts cannot be combined. Highlights and Photo Spots at the Keisei Rose Garden Photo：Keisei Rose Garden, Yachiyo, Chiba The Keisei Rose Garden in Yachiyo, Chiba, is one of the best rose theme parks in Japan. Visitors can enjoy spring roses and autumn roses, but the peak season throughout the year is spring. There are many attractions and photo spots throughout the garden. Here are some of the best areas. ●The Rose Path From the Rose Arches This is an impressive pathway where visitors can pass under countless roses while enjoying a view of the entire rose garden. ●Word of the Roses of Versailles The terrace offers a panoramic view of the area where all six types of the famous "Rose of Versailles" are covered. ●Formal-Style Garden This is a formal, French-style garden. Screens, poles, arches, and pergolas are used to create a three-dimensional appearance for the 80 varieties of roses blooming in the rose garden. ●Rose Gazebo The Rose Gazebo is recognized as a sacred place for lovers! This is a gazebo made of marble donated by designer Yumi Katsura. Weddings can also be held here. ●Merry-go-round "Brilliant Tree" (700 yen per person): The first attraction in the Keisei Rose Garden, this merry-go-round can accommodate three people. Visitors can enjoy a fantastic experience surrounded by the scent of roses wafting from diffusers and bubbles floating magically in the air. ●Strawberry Hunt in the Land of Oz The "Strawberry Hunt in Oz" takes place in the backyard of the rose garden, which is normally off-limits to visitors. This strawberry picking facility opened in 2022, and here, visitors can enjoy a one-of-a-kind strawberry picking experience in a photogenic space. ●Installation of Light and Roses The 2023 event has not yet been announced, but the 2021 event was a collaboration between "Nippon Akari-Haku" and the art group "Mirror Bowler," and was well received. Must-See Roses at the Keisei Rose Garden! Photo：Keisei Rose Garden, Yachiyo, Chiba It is honestly difficult to recommend or choose the most popular roses among the 1,600 varieties and 10,000 plants, and so we will focus on highly popular roses and popular roses sold online. ●Manyo This is a new variety born at the Keiyo Rose Garden. It has an orange color, which is rare among roses. They gradually change from apricot to orange when they begin blooming, which is another of their unique aspects. ●Gaku no Yume This rose is popular for its vivid strawberry red and white coloring, with more than 10 buds per cluster. It has a mild fragrance and 25-35 petals. ●Pearl earrings The name "Pearl Earring" comes from its elegant and friendly appearance. It produces large, fragrant white flowers and has a sweet citrus scent. New seedlings are also available for purchase at the garden. There are still countless other roses that we can't introduce here. When you visit the garden, be sure to keep an eye out for all of the different varieties. [Video] 5:20 - Close-Up of a Beautiful, Glossy Rose How to Get to the Keisei Rose Garden Photo：Yachiyo-Midorigaoka Station, Toyo Rapid Railway Line If you choose to use public transportation, there are two ways to get to the Keisei Rose Garden: by walking from the nearest station, Yachiyo Midorigaoka Station, or by transferring to a bus. The following is an introduction to each of these methods. [Public Transportation/Train → Walking] Toyo Rapid Transit: A 15-minute walk from Yachiyo Midorigaoka Station. [Public Transportation/Train → Bus] Take the Toyo Bus bound for Yachiyo Medical Center (八千代医療センター, Yachiyo Iryo Senta) or Yachiyo-Chuo Station, and get off at the "Keisei Rose Garden" (approximately 5 minutes by bus). If you take the Keisei Line, get off at Yachiyodai Station and take a bus. [Public Transportation/Train→Bus] Get off at the west exit of Yachiyodai Station on the Keisei Line and then take the Toyo Bus No. 1 bound for Yachiyo Medical Center via Yachiyo Midorigaoka Station or Yachiyo Chuo Station, and get off at Keisei Rose Garden (approximately 30 minutes by bus). ※Bus travel time may vary due to crowding during the rose blooming season. Summary of Keisei Rose Garden The Keisei Rose Garden attracts many visitors. In addition to the Anniversary Garden, the Grand Arch, the Artemis Garden, and other gorgeous rose courses, this theme park has a variety of faces, including a popular rose store, restaurant, and garden center. At the garden restaurant, a chef with a passion for natural ingredients serves lunch using organic herb vegetables picked in the morning. The original ice cream, a specialty of the Keisei Rose Garden, can only be found here. The Keisei Rose Garden is, for the most part, wheelchair accessible as well. That being said, there are some places that are not accessible by wheelchair, so be sure to check out the garden map on the official website for more info. The Keisei Rose Garden is a place you'll want to visit again and again! Experience the fragrance and beauty of roses with all your senses! ◆Keisei Rose Garden◆ 【Address】755 Owada-shinden, Yachiyo-shi, Chiba 【Hours】December～March 10 10:00～16:00 March 11 - mid-April 10:00-17:00 【Admission to the Rose Garden (April 22-June 30) 】 Adults (high school students and older): 1,500 yen, Junior high school students and younger: free ※Please check the official website for details. 【TripAdvisor】Keisei Rose Garden

Nakanoshima Park Rose Garden, 2022: Video Introduction This video, titled "Osaka Walk - Nakanoshima Rose Garden 4K HDR Japan," was uploaded by "Osaka BlackCat." This video was taken during the Golden Week holiday of 2022. Many people were at the park, and the weather was fine on this evening at the Nakanoshima Park Rose Garden in Osaka. Approximately 3,700 colorful roses can be seen blooming in May. You can almost smell their fragrance through the video! Enjoy the beautiful roses and the sunset views of Nakanoshima Park via video. Nakanoshima Park – An Oasis in the Heart of Osaka: A Popular Spot for a Break Photo：Nakanoshima Park Rose Garden, Kita, Osaka Nakanoshima Park is located at the center of Osaka. It's located in Osaka City on the east side of Nakanoshima, the delta that divides the Okawa River (大川, Okawa) into two. The statue of Godai Tomoatsu, who contributed to the development of Osaka's economy, stands at the Osaka Exchange near this park. The park is also located in the middle of Osaka's business district. In the eastern area of Nakanoshima Park, there are places for citizens to relax, including the Lawn Field and Rose Garden. On days when the weather is nice, people can be seen gathering here to enjoy a picnic or go for a walk. The park is a great place for people of all ages to relax. Children can enjoy playing on the open field as well. Nakanoshima Children's Book Forest (こども本の森　中之島, Kodomo Hon no Mori Nakanoshima), designed by the famous architect Tadao Ando, is another great place for kids. Nakanoshima, which has long been the center of Osaka, is also home to historical buildings such as the Osaka City Central Public Hall (大阪市中央公会堂, Saakshi Chuo Kokaido), an Important Cultural Property of Japan, and the Osaka Prefectural Nakanoshima Library (大阪府立中之島図書館, Osaka Furitsu Nakanoshima Toshokan), making it a place where visitors can tour the stately buildings. [Video] 0:11- Historical Buildings in the Heart of Osaka What Makes Nakanoshima Park Rose Garden Unique? Photo：Nakanoshima Park Rose Garden, Kita, Osaka Nakanoshima Park is a leafy oasis in Osaka that sits between the Dojima River (堂島川, Dojimagawa) and Tosabori River (土佐堀川, Tosaborigawa). This wide and open space in the middle of the business district of Osaka was chosen as one of the "Top 100 Green Spaces in Osaka," making it a popular spot in Osaka to enjoy nature. There are approximately 310 varieties of roses planted at the Nakanoshima Park Rose Garden. In the spring and fall, when the flowers bloom, many people come to visit the park. The park is owned by the city of Osaka, meaning it's free of charge and guests can visit Nakanoshima Park Rose Garden anytime they please. The lovely roses bloom gorgeously on arches and fences, making it a great place for photographers and Instagrammers! Nakanoshima Rose Garden is a wide and open space between rivers, giving it an atmosphere much more similar to an English Garden, as opposed to a Japanese-style garden. [Video] 0:20 - The Wide Open Nakanoshima Park Rose Garden Spring and Fall, the Best Times to See the Rose Garden at Nakanoshima Park, Osaka Photo：Autumn roses at Nakanoshima Park Rose Garden, Kita, Osaka The best seasons to see the Nakanoshima Park Rose Garden are usually from the middle to the end of May in the spring, and the middle of October in fall. You can check bloom conditions via the official website. In the spring, roses begin to blooming around Japan's Golden Week Holiday, and they're at their best from the middle to the end of May. There annual and perennial varieties of roses in the park. Both of which bloom in a variety of colors. Vine roses such as Angela, a one-season blooming rose, gorgeously decorate arches, fences, and pillars. Be sure to take pictures with the rose arches in the background under the refreshing blue skies of May! Fall roses bloom from early to late October with perennial varieties of modern roses and English roses in groves. You can enjoy a wide variety of roses, including dark orange Prominents, bright pink Iceberg roses, and graceful Elegant Ladies. [Video] 0:32 - Different Varieties of Roses in Bloom Events at Nakanoshima Park Rose Garden – Light Ups & More Photo：Nakanoshima Park Rose Garden at night, Kita, Osaka How about seeing Nakanoshima Park Rose Garden on board a boat? There's a rose cruise which arrives and departs at the "Rose Port" of Nakanoshima Park. you can enjoy the scenery as you pass under several bridges in Nakanoshima. In spring and fall, when roses are at their best, rose tours are held where you can learn about the characteristics of roses and tips for growing them. The tour takes visitors on a stroll through the rose gardens of Tsurumi Ryokuchi (花博記念公園鶴見緑地, Hanahaku Kinen Koen Tsurumi Ryokuchi), Utsubo Park (靭公園, Utsubo Koen), and of course Nakanoshima Park Rose Garden. Due to the pandemic, the 2023 event has not yet been scheduled, but we're waiting with our fingers crossed! At sunset, the lights on the streets and in Nakanoshima Park are lit up, giving the park a different atmosphere. The illuminated Central Public Hall, Nakanoshima Prefectural Library, Namba Bridge and Tenjin Bridge, etc., reflected on the surface of the river give are what make the atmosphere of Osaka so unique. Things to Do Near Nakanoshima Park After exploring Nakanoshima Park, we recommend checking out some of these nearby attractions: Osaka Tenmangu Shrine This large shrine in the heart of Osaka was founded more than 1,000 years ago in 949 AD. Like many shrines in Japan, Osaka Tenmangu Shrine is dedicated to Sugawara no Michizane, the Shinto god of learning. The shrine also holds the Tenjin Matsuri (Tenjin Festival) every year on July 24/25, so be sure to keep this in mind if you're visiting around those dates. Hours: 9:00 am - 5:00 pm Closed: No regular holidays Admission Fee: Free Osaka Museum of History Located near Osaka Castle, this museum opened in 2001. The museum is a place where visitors can learn about the history of Osaka, and holds multiple special exhibits each year. There are also hands-on exhibitions where visitors can learn about traditional Japanese games, kimono, etc. Hours: 9:30 am - 5:00 pm (4:30 pm last entry) Closed: Tuesdays (or the following day if Tuesday is a national holiday) Year-end and New Year holidays (December 28 - January 4) Admission Fee: Adults: 600 yen, High school & university students: 400 yen, Middle school students and younger: Free. ※Discounts available for groups of 20 or more. Nakanoshima Museum of Art A museum of modern art in Osaka that opened in 2022. The museum aims to be a place that is easily accessible to everyone and comfortable for visitors, as well as a fluid space where people moving about Osaka can easily pass through. Hours: 10:00 am - 5:00 pm (4:30 pm last entry) Closed: Closed on Mondays (or the following Tuesday if Monday is a national holiday) Admission Fee: Admission fees vary by exhibit. Please check the official website for more information. Other Things to Do in Osaka With Family Thanks to its lovely greenery and open fields, Nakanoshima Park is one of the many great places in Osaka to visit with kids. You can enjoy a picnic here while your kids run around and play. If you're looking for more things to do with family, we've compiled a short list of some of the best things to do in Osaka with kids: Universal Studios Japan Universal Studios Japan is one of the most famous theme parks in Japan, and was the first Universal Studios theme park to be built in Asia. The park features attractions related to popular movies, like Jurassic Park, games, such as Mario Kart, and many more. Both you and your kids will have a blast here. Hours: 9:00 am - 7:00 pm Closed: No regular holidays Admission Fee: Adults: 8,600 yen, Children 5,600 yen, Seniors: 7,700 yen Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan is one of the largest aquariums in the world. It features 15 large tanks with marine life from different parts of the Pacific Rim, and is home to some 30,000 creatures of 620 different species. Kids can enjoy seeing otters, sea lions, penguins, dolphins, and more! Hours: Weekdays 10 :00 am - 8:00 pm, weekends & holidays 9:30 am - 8:00 pm. Hours vary by season, so please check the official website for more information. Closed: No regular holidays Admission Fee: 2 and under: Free, ages 3-6: 700 yen, ages 7-15: 1,400 yen, 16 and over: 2,700 yen Kids Plaza Osaka Kids Plaza Osaka is a great place for kids to have fun while learning. The facility is home to a variety of interactive exhibits where kids can learn about science, crafts, etc., and there are even staff members who are interpreters to help introduce exhibits to children. Hours: 9:30 am - 5:00 pm Closed: The second and third Monday of each month (if a Monday is a national holiday, then the following Tuesday). The fourth Monday in August. New Year holidays (December 28 - January 2) Admission Fee: Adults: 1,400 yen, Elementary & junior high school students: 800 yen, Pre-schoolers: 500 yen, Seniors: 700 yen Osaka Castle Park A fascinating historical landmark in Osaka where both children and adults can enjoy learning about the history of the castle and samurai. The castle was built in 1583 by the famous Japanese warlord Toyotomi Hideyoshi. During the spring, visitors can enjoy cherry blossoms outside the castle, and you can enjoy perusing the various exhibits of armor, etc., inside the castle year-round. It's also located within walking distance from Nakanoshima Park. Hours (Osaka Castle): 9:00 am - 5:00 pm (4:30 pm last entry) Closed: Year-end and New Year holidays (December 28 - January 1) Admission Fee: 600 yen. A Brief Introduction to Osaka Osaka is a port city located in western Honshu, the main island of Japan. It's a large metropolis with both skyscrapers and historic buildings, and is known for its delicious street food, nightlife culture, and striking architecture. Osaka is home to a number of famous tourist attractions. Some of the most popular attractions include Universal Studios Japan, Osaka Castle, Dotonbori, and Shinsekai, but there is an endless list of things to see and do in Osaka. If you're coming for travel, you can easily expect to spend 2-3 days in Osaka alone, and we recommend it, as 1 day simply isn't enough to appreciate all that Osaka has to offer. Summary of Nakanoshima Park Rose Garden The rose garden in Nakanoshima Park is a spacious place with a variety of colorful roses. Many of the varieties in the garden bloom at eye-level for children, allowing kids to enjoy the flowers as well. You can also enjoy a stroll through the park with your dog, or enjoy the smell of the roses while having a picnic on the grass. With most people in Japan still opting to wear masks, Nakanoshima Park is a great place to go to avoid crowds and get some fresh air and also save a bit of money. There are also stylish cafes nearby. We hope you get the chance to visit this spring oasis in the heart of Osaka. 【TripAdvisor】Nakanoshima Park

The Giant Floats of the Seihakusai Festival of Nanao, Ishikawa: Video Introduction This video, titled "Seihakusai Festival – Dekayama Floats Parading Through Town｜2017 in 4K" (青柏祭 でか山が街を行く 2017 in 4K), was uploaded by "officeliquid." It's a powerful 4K video of the Seihakusai Festival of Nanao, Ishikawa, in Japan's Koshin'etsu Region. At the Seihakusai Festival, recognized as a UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage, the largest floats in Japan, referred to as "Dekayama," are pulled through the streets of the city. The sight of the Dekayama going from one alley to the next is an incredible sight. The shouting of the crowds and the gentle May breeze make it feel like the festival is taking place right before your eyes, something that can only be achieved with such high-definition video. Enjoy the 3-minute movie showing what it's like to travel to Noto during summer! About Ishikawa Prefecture Ishikawa Prefecture is located approximately 2.5 hours northwest of Tokyo via bullet train. It's bordered by Toyama, Fukui, and Gifu Prefectures, as well as the sea. Bordering the sea, Ishikawa is known for its delicious seafood, and is also home to a number of popular tourist attractions, including Kenrokuen Garden, one of the "Three Most Beautiful Gardens in Japan," and Kanazawa Castle, both of which are located in Kanazawa, the capital of Ishikawa. In addition, it's home to unique cultures and traditional crafts, such as Kanazawa Lacquerware, and Kanazawa Gold Leaf. An Introduction to Festivals in Japan Japan is home to thousands of festivals each year. The Japanese word for festival is "matsuri" (祭り), which comes from the word "matsuru" (祭る, to deify, to enshrine). The reason Japan has so many festivals has to do with Japanese culture and religion. Japan is said to be home to 8 million gods, and practically every area in Japan has a shrine that worships a particular god. Because of this, many shrines also have their own annual festivals, with different meanings and origins. There are seasonal festivals to pray for good harvests, bon festivals to pray for the souls of the dead, and even dance festivals showcasing traditional dances of a particular regions. There is a seemingly endless list of festivals, many of which are held near shrines or temples, and which often have food stalls, music, etc., for the enjoyment of participants. Some of the most famous festivals in Japan are the Gion Festival of Kyoto, the Tanabata Festival of Sendai, and the Nebuta Festival of Aomori which features large, intricate floats. Summer is particularly known to have a lot of festivals, thanks to the warm weather, so be sure to keep an eye out for them if you're visiting Japan during this time of year! What Is the Seihakusai Festival? Unraveling the History and Origins of the UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage! Photo：The Seihakusai Festival, Nanao, Ishikawa The Seihakusai Festival is said to have been started as a national festival by Minamoto no Shitago in the Heian period (794-1185). Yoshimune, the third lord of the Noto Hatakeyama Clan, dedicated a float to the Seihakusai Festival, following the example of the yamaboko floats of Kyoto's Gion Festival, in an attempt to incorporate Kyoto culture into the festival, and this was the beginning of the Dekayama. The Seihakusai Festival got its name from the fact that the food offered to the gods (shinsen) was served on the young leaves of an oak tree which are called "seihaku" (青柏) in Japanese. It's said that when people went to Noto, they paid a visit to Otokonushi Shrine and offered seihaku to the gods. The Seihaku Festival is an annual spring festival held at Otokonushi Shrine. [Video] 0:22 - The Large Dekayama Floats of the Seihakusai Festival The Seihakusai Festival has a history of more than 1,000 years. In 1983, the Seihakusai Festival and its large floats were designated as Important Intangible Folk Cultural Properties of Japan, and in 2016, the events with the floats were registered as UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritages as well. The Dekayama Floats of the Seihakusai Festival + The Dolls That Adorn Them "Dekayama" is the common name for the largest floats in Japan. The huge floats are 12 meters tall, weigh 12 tons, and have wheels which are 2 meters in diameter. They're pulled by people and are a powerful sight. However, the magnificence of Dekayama is not limited to their size. The stages and dolls depicting famous Kabuki scenes which decorate the front of the Dekayama are also a highlight of the festival. The stage is also decorated with a single young pine tree, which is used to pray for the gods' descent and for the eradication of disease and a prosperous life. The puppets/dolls displayed on the Dekayama's stages are called "Ningyomi" (人形見) and are unveiled at a designated "Ningyoyado" (doll inn) in each town on the evening of May 2, where they can be viewed by the general public. The Nigyomi dolls are a rare opportunity to see the Dekayama floats from up close. After the one-night exhibition, the newly created dolls go up on the Dekayama stages each year. The Dekayama are the stars of the show, giving a large-scale performance that allows visitors to experience the history and culture of the Noto Region. Tsujimawashi and Fireworks at the Seihakusai Festival Source :YouTube screenshot The highlight of the Seihakusai Festival is the turning of the floats, which is called "tsujimawashi." To turn the floats, a special lever called an "Oteko," is wedged beneath the wheel to change the direction of the float. Seeing the tsujimawashi performed on the narrow streets of the city with an 8-meter-long lever is quite the show. Young men climb on top of the Oteko and use leverage to lift the front wheel and turn the floats. The scene of the dangerous rotation of the floats is a spectacular sight to behold. [Video] 2:35 - Young Men Riding on the Oteko as the Float Is Turned The powerful Tsujimawashi can be seen from the night of May 3 to the night of May 5 at various locations in the city center. Another highlight of the Seihakusai Festival is the fireworks. The first shot at around 8:30 pm on May 3 is for Kajicho, the first town to pull out its floats. The second shot goes off at 1:00 am on May 4, signaling Fuchu to pull out its floats, and the last shot goes off at 8:00 am on May 4 for Uomachi. Unlike the other two towns, only Uomachi has two fireworks signals, one at 7:00 am and the other at 8:00 am. The time of the fireworks may change, and fireworks may not be displayed on rainy or cloudy days. Please check weather information, etc. in advance on the official websites. When will the 2024 Aokashi Festival be held? Where will it be held? The Aokashiwa Festival, held at the Daichishu Shrine in the center of downtown Nanao, is usually held from May 3 to 5. However, from 2020, due to the spread of the new coronavirus, only the Shinto ritual was held. After the end of the outbreak, in 2023, the Dekayama Matsuri was resumed for the first time in four years, and the festival was very lively. However, the Aokashiwa Festival in 2024 was cancelled due to the Noto Peninsula earthquake. We hope that the local people will return to their daily lives as soon as possible and that the Aokashiwa Festival will resume after reconstruction. The surrounding area will be very crowded during the festival. Traffic regulations will be enforced, so we recommend that you look up information in advance, including information on temporary parking lots, if you plan to visit the area by car. How to Participate in the Seihakusai Festival Source :YouTube screenshot In previous years, the Seihakusai Festival was open to public participation in the form of pullers. Unfortunately, this was not possible in 2022 in order to prevent the spread of COVID-19. Recently, with the national policy of wearing masks after March 13th being left to the discretion of individuals, it's possible that the event will be open for public participation once again. It's best to wait for an official announcement regarding whether pullers can participate in the event. During the Seihakusai Festival, many sightseeing events will be held in the region, so be sure to check them out as well. 3 Popular Japanese Festivals Celebrated in May Here are 3 more festivals that you could consider checking out if you're visiting Japan during May: Aoi Matsuri, Kyoto Aoi Matsuri is festival with origins dating back 1,500 years. The festival features a large procession of 600 people wearing traditional clothing of Heian Period court nobles. The procession, the main event of the festival, takes place on May 15. Sanja Matsuri, Tokyo Sanja Matsuri is a festival held on the 3rd Friday, Saturday, and Sunday in May. It's one of the most famous festivals in Japan and attracts nearly 2 million spectators each year. The festival is held at the popular Sensoji Temple in Asakusam Tokyo and consists of musical floats, geiko (apprentice geisha), dancers, etc. Kanda Matsuri, Tokyo Kanda Matsuri is held at Kanda Shrine in Chiyoda, Tokyo. It is one of the 3 major festivals of Tokyo. The festival's main event is a procession of around 500 people dressed in Heian Period attire that passes through Akihabara, the electronics capital of Japan. Summary of the Seihakusai Festival of Nanao, Ishikawa The Seihakusai Festival is a spring festival that is regarded as one of the most representative festivals of the Noto Peninsula. The tradition of Hikiyama, which has been passed on since ancient times, is filled with the wishes of many people. Before the Dekayama parade, the biggest highlight of the festival, be sure to visit the Ningyoyado, where you can see the elaborate dolls and decorations up close every year. It's an awesome part of the Seihakusai Festival! Nanao, Ishikawa is one of the most accessible tourist destinations, being only about an hour away from Kanazawa, which has many tourist attractions, by train or car. We recommend visiting here for a relaxing trip to enjoy traditional events, the delicious cuisine of the Noto Peninsula, and a variety of tourist attractions!

Hokkaido Noboribetsu City Tourism PR Video Introduction This video, titled "Noboribetsu City Sightseeing PR Video" (登別市観光PR動画), was uploaded by "[Official] General Incorporated Association｜Noboribetsu International Tourism and Convention Association" (【公式】一般社団法人 登別国際観光コンベンション協会). This video introduces things to do in Noboribetsu, Hokkaido. You can see the magnificent nature of Noboribetsu, popular tourist attractions in Noboribetsu, and events in which many people participate. Enjoy the beautiful, 10-minute video of Noboribetsu! An Introduction to Noboribetsu and Its Connection to Oni Photo：Oni Hanabi fireworks at Jigokudani (Hell Valley), Noboribetsu, Hokkaido Noboribetsu is located in the Iburi subprefecture of southwestern Hokkaido and is known for its natural hot springs. Facing the Pacific Ocean to the south, it's a tourist city with rich natural surroundings that sits at the heart of Shikotsu-Toya National Park, a mountainous area with continuous volcanic activity. Noboribetsu is located approximately 1hr 30m from Sapporo by train. Statues of oni (Japanese ogre demons) and spiked clubs are scattered throughout Noboribetsu. Since it's said that oni protect the medicinal hot springs in Jigokudani, oni have become the symbol of Noboribetsu. During the "Oni Hanabi" (鬼花火, 'Demon Fireworks') event held in Jigokudani (Hell Valley), oni beat drums and shoot handheld fireworks to drive away people's misfortune! At Noboribetsu Jigoku Matsuri, red and blue oni accompanied by the Great Demon King Enma perform the "Oni Odori" dance to liven up the festival. [Video] 6:00 - Oni Hanabi Fireworks, Noboribetsu Jigoku Matsuri Recommended Things to Do in Noboribetsu, Hokkaido Photo：Noboribetsu Onsen, Hokkaido Here are some popular tourist spots and recommended things to do when sightseeing in Noboribetsu. Noboribetsu Onsen Noboribetsu Onsen is one of the most famous hot springs in Japan, with nine different types of spring water, making it one of the most unique hot springs in the world. Jigokudani (Hell Valley) Noboribetsu Onsen is the largest hot springs in Japan. The steam spewing from the crater created by the eruptive activity of Mt. Hiyori and the boiling spring water are reminiscent of a "hell where demons dwell." Jigokudani can be reached in about 15 minutes by bus from Noboribetsu Station. [Video] 0:43 - Hell Valley Karurusu Onsen A small hot spring village located 8 km from Noboribetsu Onsen. It has been used as a medicinal hot spring since ancient times, and is designated as a National Health Onsen Resort. Oyunuma River Natural Footbath The Oyunuma River, a river of hot spring water flowing out of Oyunuma Pond, spews out 130°C sulfur spring water, and visitors can enjoy a natural footbath here. [Video] 2:03 - Natural Footbath Photo：Lake Kuttara, Hokkaido Lake Kuttara Lake Kuttara is a caldera lake measuring approximately 2.5 kilometers in diameter. There is no river leading to the lake, and its beauty is something of mystery. Noboribetsu Marine Park Nixe The aquarium "Nixe Castle" inside the park has a fantastic display of some 400 species of sea creatures. There are also penguin parades and dolphin and sea lion shows that are popular with guests. [Video] 4:28 - Noboribetsu Marine Park Nixe Noboribetsu Date Jidaimura A cultural park that recreates the streets of Edo-period Japan (1603-1868 A.D.). Visitors can experience the culture of the Edo period with ninja shows and oiran (traditional Japanese courtesan) shows, and also enjoy dressing up in historical costumes. [Video] 5:00 - Noboribetsu Date Jidaimura Photo：Noboribetsu Bear Park, Hokkaido Noboribetsu Bear Park Noboribetsu Bear Park is a zoo where approximately 140 bears are kept. Visitors can observe the bears from up close. The feeding experience and cute bear shows are also popular amongst guests. Enmado Karakuri is performed six times a day at Enmado, a shrine dedicated to the Great Demon King Enma located on the Gokuraku-dori shopping street. During the "Hell Sentence," in which Enma passes judgment on people, the gentle face of Enma turns angry and his complexion turns red. Sengen Park Geyser At Sengen Park, located in the center of Noboribetsu Onsen, you can see a geyser that shoots up eight meters into the air every three hours or so. Noboribetsu has a ton of things to see and do. The Noboribetsu International Tourism and Convention Association recommends model courses for visitors who want to explore the area efficiently based on the length of their stay, with 30, 60, 120, and 180-minute courses, etc. Enjoy Canyoning in Summer + Skiing & Other Activities in Winter in Noboribetsu! Photo：Canyoning Noboribetsu is home to deep green forests, majestic mountains, and beautiful clear streams. Because of this, there are a variety of outdoor activities to enjoy in Noboribetsu. In the summer, river trekking and canyoning allow visitors to physically enjoy the great outdoors while immersing themselves in nature! You can also observe endangered plants and wild birds in the Kiushito Wetlands. [Video] 2:33 - Canyoning Winter in Noboribetsu brings a world of silvery white snow. Throw on some snowshoes and go out for a walk in the snow, see the unique ice trees, or enjoy skiing at the ski resort! Where to Eat & Where to Buy Souvenirs in Noboribetsu City, Hokkaido Photo：Seafood being grilled If you visit Noboribetsu, Hokkaido, we recommend trying the fresh seafood from Noboribetsu Fishing Port. At Onsen Ichiba (温泉市場), you can enjoy the seasonal seafood flavors, including sashimi and charbroiled fish. Be sure to check out the rich soft-serve ice cream made from Noboribetsu milk at the Noboribetsu Dairy Farm or at one of the cafes in town. If you're wondering where to buy souvenirs in Noboribetsu, we recommend cheese and pudding made with Noboribetsu milk from Noboribetsu Dairy Farm, "Wakasaimo" (わかさいも), a famous confectionery from the Iburi subprefecture of Hokkaido, and "Oni Densetsu," a beer brewed locally in Noboribetsu. Hotels and Ryokan in Noboribetsu Photo：Noboribetsu Onsen, Noboribetsu, Hokkaido There's no shortage of hotels and hot spring inns in Noboribetsu. Unfortunately, the onsen ryokan (hot spring inns) can end up costing a decent chunk of change to stay at. If you're simply looking to enjoy the area and aren't interested in spending extra for the hot spring inn experience, we recommend staying at a hotel. That being said, if you don't mind spending a bit more to get the full experience, we highly recommend staying at a hot spring inn. Here are our 3 recommendations for lodging in Noboribetsu: Takimotokan A large inn with both Japanese- and Western-style rooms. The history of the inn dates back nearly 150 years, and it's equipped with a wide range of facilities, including swimming pools, hot springs, shops, bars, karaoke, and more. Oyado Kiyomizuya A hot spring inn that serves traditional Japanese cuisine and features Japanese-style rooms with tatami flooring. The public baths are open 24-hours a day, split into two time slots for men and women. Noboribetsu Grand Hotel This hotel in Noboribetsu features Japanese-style room with tatami floors, standard Western-style rooms, and semi-western-style rooms with both Japanese and western influences. The hotel offers buffet-style dining, but visitors can also enjoy full-course meals from the comfort of their own rooms. All of these inns and hotels are within walking distance to popular attractions like Jigokudani as well, making them great choices for places to stay. Noboribetsu, Hokkaido Sightseeing Summary Noboribetsu offers a host of things to do if you're planning on sightseeing in the area. You can enjoy the spectacular seasonal scenery and appreciate the magnificent nature unique to the area. Enjoy the magnificent nature and delicious local flavors by staying at Noboribetsu Onsen, and enjoy sightseeing in Noboribetsu, Hokkaido to your heart's content! 【Official Website】Noboribetsu, Hokkaido｜City Hall Website 【TripAdvisor】Noboribetsu, Hokkaido

A Video Introducing Ikegami-Honmonji Temple in Ota, Tokyo This video, titled "The Sakura of Ikegami Honmon-ji - Tokyo - 池上本門寺 - 8K," was uploaded by "TokyoStreetView - Japan The Beautiful." It introduces Ikegami-Honmonji Temple during spring with beautiful cherry blossoms in vivid 8K. Ikegami-Honmonji Temple has a history dating back 700 years as the sacred grounds where the Buddhist priest Nichiren passed away, and is considered one of the 14 sacred temples of Nichiren Shoshu and one of the seven major head temples of the Nichiren sect. There is a building on the temple grounds that is registered as an Important Cultural Property, and in the spring, visitors can enjoy a spectacular tunnel of cherry blossoms. Many people visit the shrine for Oeshiki, a ceremony/festival with many food stalls. In this article, we'll introduce the history of Ikegami-Honmonji Temple, its events, and tourist information, including transportation access. Be sure to check out the video to enjoy the beautiful cherry blossoms and the five-story pagoda on the temple's precincts. More About Ikegami-Honmonji Temple Photo：Cherry blossoms at Ikegami-Honmonji Temple, Tokyo, Japan Nichiren Shoshu's main temple, Choueizan Ikegami-Honmonji Temple, is said to be the sacred place where Nichiren, a Buddhist priest of the Kamakura period (1185-1333 A.D.), died in 1282 at the age of 61. Every year on October 11, 12, and 13, the "Oeshiki Memorial Service" is held to remember the legacy of Buddhist priest Nichiren. On the night of the 12th, around 300,000 people visit the temple and making it a popular event. Every year from the end of October to the end of November, prayers are held to pray for the growth and development of children during Shichi-Go-San. From the main gate, enter the main approach and climb the 96-step stone steps and you'll find Choueido Hall. Further along, after passing Niomon gate, you'll come across the five-story pagoda to your right. The five-story pagoda, which can be seen from 0:25 in the video, is the oldest five-story pagoda in Japan's Kanto region that was built before the end of the Edo period. The pagoda is 31.8 meters tall, and features beautiful architecture characterized by its "setchuyo style," with only the first layer in Japanese style and the second and higher layers in Chinese style. It has been designated as an Important Cultural Property. Beyond the five-story pagoda is the main hall followed by the inner shrine. In the foreground on the left is a tahoto, a unique pagoda with an even number of layers. The pagoda is the burial place of Nichiren, and is surrounded by a sacred atmosphere. When is the best time to see cherry blossoms at Ikegami Honmonji?What's the highlight? About 100 cherry trees are planted in the precincts of Ikegami Honmonji.Although there are not many, many people visit in spring because they can enjoy the collaboration between cherry blossoms and Inwangmun Gate, cherry blossoms and five-story pagoda that bloom on the approach. The best time to see cherry blossoms is from late March to early April.Tokyo is expected to bloom around March 27th and April 5th in full bloom in 2024. Also, Ikegami Honmonji holds the Spring Festival on April 6th and 7th every year.In addition to the special opening of the five-story pagoda, mock shops and events will also be held.The five-storied pagoda, which did not collapse in the Great Kanto Earthquake, and the five-storied pagoda amulet, which can be awarded for a limited time, are also popular among examinees. Tourist Information for Ikegami-Honmonji Temple in Ota, Tokyo Photo：Ikegami Station, Tokyu Ikegami Line To get to Ikegami-Honmonji Temple it's a 10-minute walk from Ikegami Station on the Tokyu Ikegami Line, a 12-minute walk from Nishimagome Station on the Toei Asakusa Line, or a 20-minute bus ride from the Omori Station bus headed towards Ikegami station. Get off at Honmonji-mae, and then it's a 5-minute walk. There is also a parking lot for those visiting by car. The grounds of the temple are large and include the grave of Rikidozan, a popular professional wrestler from Japan's Showa Period, and locals use it as a walking course. Summary of Ikegami-Honmonji Temple Photo：Ikegami-Honmonji Temple, Tokyo, Japan This video introducing Ikegami-Honmonji Temple features beautiful footage of a historic temple in Tokyo. The blessings provided by Ikegami Honmonji Temple are said to fulfill one's heart's desire, ward off bad luck, and protect against eye diseases. Consider picking up a charm from the temple when visiting and also getting a shuin stamp if you're collecting them! There are also many temples and shrines around Ikegami-Honmonji Temple, and the Seven Lucky Gods tour, which takes visitors on a roughly two-hour-long tour of the surrounding temples, is very popular. The Ikegami Plum Garden and Honmonji Park in the area are nice places to relax as well. This article introduced the history of and tourist information for Ikegami-Honmonji Temple. The video was shot right at the start of spring, during the cherry blossom season. Enjoy the beautiful scenery of cherry blossoms dancing in the background with the breathtaking pagoda of Ikegami-Honmonji Temple. 【Official Website】Ikegami-Honmonji Temple https://honmonji.jp/foreign/en.html 【TripAdvisor】Ikegami-Honmonji Temple https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g1066454-d1237077-Reviews-Ikegami_Hommon_ji_Temple-Ota_Tokyo_Tokyo_Prefecture_Kanto.html

Nishi Honganji Temple” in Kyoto City, Kyoto Prefecture, Japan Video Introduction This video, titled "Kyoto, Japan, Nishi Honganji Temple, Jodo Shinshu, Otani Honbyo, World Heritage Site, 2018/8" (京都 西本願寺浄土真宗・大谷本廟 世界遺産　2018/8), was uploaded by "cakua car trips" (cakua 車の旅). It introduces the beauty of Nishi Honganji Temple, a temple registered as a World Heritage Site under "Historic Monuments of Ancient Kyoto." The temple is located in Kyoto, Japan in Japan's Kansai region. Nishi Honganji Temple: A Popular Sightseeing Spot and Indispensable Part of Sightseeing in Kyoto! Photo：Nishi Honganji Temple, Kyoto, Japan At the beginning of the video, viewers can see a map of Nishi Honganji Temple and its surrounding area. Nishi Honganji Temple is a popular tourist spot that we highly recommend visiting when traveling in Kyoto. It is the head temple of the Honganji school of the Jodo Shinshu sect, and its official name is "Ryukokuzan Honganji." It is called Nishi Honganji (lit. "west Hongaji") to distinguish it from Higashi Honganji (lit. "east Hongaji") of the Shinshu Otani school. The History of Nishi Honganji Temple Photo：Otani Honbyo, Higashiyama, Kyoto The history of Nishi Honganji Temple dates back to 1272, when it was built as a mausoleum for Shinran Shonin. Shinran Shonin's burial place was simple at first, but then Otani Honbyo was built by monks. In addition to Shinran Shonin, many of his followers from all over Japan are buried here, and memorial services are held regularly. It is a part of the same sect as Higashi Honganji, and the sutras used are also the same. In Kagoshima Prefecture, there's Honganji Kagoshima Betsuin, another temple belonging to the same school of Buddhism. National Treasures and Important Cultural Assets at Nishi Honganji Temple Photo：Nishi Honganji Temple, Kyoto, Japan There are many things to see on the grounds of Nishi Honganji Temple. As you enter the temple grounds through Goeido Gate, you'll see the elegant chozu-ya. This can be seen from 2:00 in the video. The two main halls, Goeido Hall and Amida Hall, stand side by side. In Goeido Hall, there is a statue of Shinran Shonin. At 2:49 in the video, you can see the majestic interior of the Amida Hall. Another must-see is Hiunkaku, one of the three most famous buildings in Kyoto, which is said to be the remnants of Jurakudai, a palace constructed at the order of Toyotomi Hideyoshi. The shoin (study), a national treasure, includes a kuro shoin (a shoin used by shogun, daimyo, and high-ranking priests) and a noh stage, the oldest existing noh stage in Japan. Also check out Karamon Gate, a gate with magnificent carvings, said to make you forget the sun has set. There's also Tekisuien Garden in Hiunkaku, which is designated as a Place of Scenic Beauty, and Daishoin Garden, designated as a Special Place of Scenic Beauty and a historic site. The garden is usually closed to the public, but it is a must-see on the special occasions when it is open to the public. At Monbou Kaikan, the lodging house of Nishi Honganji Temple, visitors can enjoy vegetarian Buddhist cuisine. Summary of Nishi Honganji Temple It takes about 15 minutes to get to Nishi Honganji Temple from Kyoto Station on foot. There is also a free parking lot for worshippers and visitors to the temple. There is no charge to visit Nishi Honganji Temple, but there are no unfortunately no shuin stamps either. The video introduces many of the highlights of Nishi Honganji Temple. If you're not sure where to start, consider taking a free tour of the temple. You can find more details on the official website of Nishi Honganji Temple below. Tours average about 30 minutes each. Be sure to check out the video to see the highlights of Nishi Honganji Temple, one of the most popular tourist spots in Kyoto and a World Heritage Site! 【Official Website】The Hongaji School of Jodo Shinshu｜Nishi Honganji Temple https://www.hongwanji.or.jp/english/ 【TripAdvisor】Nishi Honganji Temple https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g298564-d321443-Reviews-Nishi_Honganji-Kyoto_Kyoto_Prefecture_Kinki.html

A Video Introducing Beautiful Wisteria Viewing Spots in Fukuoka and Nagasaki! This video, titled "About 600-year-old Wisteria trees are in full blossom at FUKUOKA 2021," was uploaded by "Japan BackpackersXpress." It introduces famous wisteria locations in Fukuoka and Nagasaki Prefectures. The beautiful pale purple of the wisteria that bloom while hanging from the large wisteria trellises are a breathtaking sight that will leave you speechless. In this article, we'll introduce tourist information about the wisteria viewing locations featured in the video. The video shows beautiful footage of three places in Japan famous for wisteria. Be sure to check out the beautiful spring flowers and wisteria tunnels in the video! Japan's Famous Wisteria Viewing Spots Photo：Wisteria Wisteria is an ancient, famous, Japanese vining tree with beautiful flowers that also appears in the hugely popular anime/manga "Demon Slayer" (or "Kimetsu no Yaiba" for those who prefer the Japanese title). The meanings of wisteria include "kindness," "foreverness," and "drunk on love," all of which are associated with marriage and matchmaking. Wisteria blooms during spring in Japan (around mid-April), and in addition to the beautiful flowers, visitors can enjoy the pleasant fragrance of the flowers. It is best to check Twitter and other websites in advance to find information on flowering forecasts, festival periods, and up-to-date bloom information. The famous wisteria viewing spots introduced in the video are "Nakayama O-fuji" in Yanagawa, Fukuoka, "Kurogi no O-fuji" in Yame, Fukuoka, and "Fujiyama Shrine" in Sasebo, Nagasaki, all located in Japan's Kyushu Region. In addition to the three locations shown in the video, Fukuoka and Nagasaki prefectures are also dotted with other places famous for their wisteria. The privately owned "Kawachi Wisteria Garden" in Kitakyushu, Fukuoka, and "Buzoji Temple" with its "Wisteria of Longevity" in Tsukushi, Fukuoka, are especially popular. The Kawachi Wisteria Garden, which was selected as one of the "10 Beautiful Places In The World That Actually Exist" in 2012, is so popular that it requires reservations. What is the best time and place to see "Nakayama no Oto" in Yanagawa City, Fukuoka Prefecture? Photo：Nakayama O-fuji, Yanagawa, Fukuoka At 0:29 of the video, viewers can see Nakayama O-fuji, the beautiful wisteria of Yanagawa, Fukuoka. Located on the precincts of Nakayama Kumano Shrine, the 300-year-old, large wisteria trees, with flower clusters over one meter long, are a sight to behold. The trees here have been designated as a Natural Monuments by Fukuoka Prefecture. The best time to see the "Nakayama Grand Wisteria" is usually from mid to late April. In 2023, the "Nakayama Grand Wisteria Festival" was held for two weeks from April 14 to 28, attracting many visitors. During the "Nakayama Grand Wisteria Festival," the wisteria trellises are lit up and various events such as live music and product sales are held. The duration of the festival is subject to change depending on the blooming conditions of the wisteria flowers, so if you plan to visit the festival in 2024, we recommend that you check the schedule in advance. It takes about 10 minutes to reach Nakayama O-fuji by car from Nishitetsu Yanagawa Station on the Nishitetsu Tenjin Omuta Line. There are also parking lots nearby. What is the best time and place to see "Kuroki no Oto" in Yame City, Fukuoka Prefecture? Photo：Kurogi no O-fuji, Fukuoka Prefecture Kurogi no O-fuji in Kuroki, Yame, Fukuoka is introduced at 6:52 in the video. The highlight is the 600-year-old "Kuroki no Oto" (big wisteria tree) located in the precincts of Susanoo Shrine, which is designated as a national natural monument. The best time to see "Kuroki no Oto" is usually from mid-April to early May. Access: 50 minutes by bus from JR Inuzuka Station by train, and parking is available. Parking is available and red seals are available. What is the best time and place to see wisteria at Fujiyama Shrine in Sasebo City, Nagasaki Prefecture? Photo：Wisteria at Fujiyama Shrine Introduced from 15:31, Fujiyama Shrine in Sasebo City, Nagasaki Prefecture is a representative wisteria flower spot in Nagasaki Prefecture.Some of the attractions are "Oto" and "Ogatama Tree," designated natural monuments in the precincts of the temple, and some are 800 years old. Bloom forecasts vary depending on the type of wisteria, with red and white wisteria in early April, the main red wisteria in mid-April, and Japanese wisteria in mid-May. Wisteria carries the meaning of matchmaking and love, and En-musubi charms (matchmaking charms) at Fujiyama Shrine are very popular because of this. Access to Fujiyama Shrine is about 30 minutes by bus from Sasebo Station. Parking is also available. Summary of Wisteria Viewing Spots in Fukuoka and Nagasaki This video, "About 600-year-old Wisteria trees are in full blossom at FUKUOKA 2021." shows beautiful footage of wisteria flower spots in Fukuoka and Nagasaki prefectures. Relax and enjoy the beautifully hanging wisteria and consider visiting if you're looking to take some Instagram pics!

Isshiki Beach, Miura-gun, Zushi, Hayama, Kanagawa, Japan This video, titled "Zushi, Hayama [Isshiki Beach] Drone Footage, 4K, Drone, Japan｜HAYAMA ZUSHI" (逗子・葉山【一色海水浴場】ドローン空撮 4K Drone Japan HAYAMA ZUSHI), was uploaded by "Drone Man sky creative" (ドローン男子 sky creative). It introduces Isshiki Beach in the Zushi-Hayama area of Kanagawa Prefecture, located in Japan's Kanto Region, via drone footage. The video gives a unique view of Isshiki Beach that you wouldn't normally see, that is, from the sky. We hope you enjoy it! More About Isshiki Beach in Zushi-Hayama, Kanagawa! Photo：Isshiki Beach, Zushi-Hayama Isshiki Beach is a serene beach measuring 500m long and 30m wide facing Sagami Bay in Hayama, a resort area on the Miura Peninsula in Kanagawa Prefecture. It's a beautiful beach that extends to the backside of the Hayama Imperial Villa, a villa of the Imperial Family, and was selected as one of the "100 Best Beaches Around the World" by CNN in 2013. It's also a popular spot for surfing and SUP, and you can see many people enjoying marine activities, water sports, swimming, and sunbathing in the video. In the vicinity of Isshiki Beach is Arasaki Park, the #1 scenic spot on the Miura Peninsula, where you can get a great view of Mt. Fuji and beautiful sunsets! Isshiki Beach is a must-visit tourist spot when visiting the Isshiki area. The beach is easily accessible on a day trip from Tokyo, and is crowded with families swimming and sunbathing on sunny days. There are rocks on both sides of the beach where visitors can enjoy playing on the rocks. You can see the rocky beach from 1:42 in the video. During beach season, lifeguards are stationed at beach houses, so there's no need to worry about safety. The beach houses are rated highly on review sites for being very stylish and having great atmospheres. Lunch and showers are available at the beach houses as well. Unfortunately, the beach has been temporarily closed due to the novel coronavirus, so be sure to check in advance when visiting. Speaking of beaches and swimming, one of the things you might be wondering about is whether or not barbecues are allowed. Unfortunately, Isshiki Beach prohibits barbecues within the summer beach area. That being said, it is possible to have a barbecue a short distance away from the beach, but it is not permitted near residences. Information on Events and Activities Held at Isshiki Beach Photo：Beach yoga A variety of events are held at Isshiki Beach in the Zushi-Hayama area of Kanagawa. One such event is Feel SHONAN during Beach Yoga Week, where participants can experience authentic, relaxing beach yoga. Participants say that beach yoga at Isshiki Beach makes them feel like they are one with nature. In summer, the Hayama Kaigan Fireworks Festival is held, attracting many visitors annually. The Hayama Kaigan Fireworks Festival is held every year from late July to early August at Morito Beach and the Isshiki Beach Breakwater. At Isshiki Beach, sea kayaking, a type of canoeing, is a popular activity. Fishing is also popular, and anglers can catch flatheads and Japanese whiting. Sightseeing Information and Instagram Photo Tips for Isshiki Beach Photo：Morito Daimyojin Shrine, Hayama, Kanagawa The Zushi-Hayama area of Kanagawa is home to many tourist attractions. If you like visiting shrines and learning about the history of places you visit, we recommend checking out Morito Daimyojin, a shrine founded by Minamoto no Yoritomo that's visited by many people each year to pray for successful pregnancy and safe childbirth. If you're looking to enjoy a Japanese garden or a tea house, there's also Hayama Shiosai Park. We also recommend Hayama Ajisai Park, where visitors can see 3,000 colorful hydrangeas, and Hayama Sangaokayama Ryokuchi, where visitors can enjoy hiking. Hayama Marina, where visitors can enjoy cruising around Enoshima and Yujiro Lighthouse, is also popular. Summary of Isshiki Beach in Zushi-Hayama In this article, we introduced Isshiki Beach, one of the best beaches in Japan. The beach is just an hour and a half from Tokyo, and as you can see in the video, it features beautiful cobalt blue waters. Enjoy a relaxing time at Isshiki Beach in the Zushi-Hayama area of Kanagawa this summer! ◆Isshiki Beach◆ 【Address】Isshiki, Hayama, Miura, Kanagawa 【Access】From Zushi Station (JR Yokosuka Line) or Hayama Station (Keihin Kyuko Line), take the Keikyu Bus bound for Kaigan-mawari Hayama, and get off at the Isshiki Kaigan bus stop (20 minutes) By car, it's about 20 minutes from the Zushi Interchange on the Yokohama–Yokosuka Road via the Zushi Shindo toll booth (逗葉新道料金所). 【Parking】Parking available for 30 cars. Weekdays: 1,500 yen, Weekends: 2,000 yen 【TripAdvisor】Isshiki Beach https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g1121132-d7652968-Reviews-Isshiki_Beach-Hayama_machi_Miura_gun_Kanagawa_Prefecture_Kanto.html

Introducing the Shibushi Summer Soba Festival in Shibushi, Kagoshima This video, titled "【Shibushi Summer Soba Festival】Shibushi City【Official】" (【志布志の夏越しそばまつり】志布志市 【公式】), was uploaded by "Yasuda Movie Laboratory" (安田映像研究所). It introduces the Shibushi Summer Soba Festival of Yamamiya Shrine via a PR video with drone footage. In Shibushi, Kagoshima, located in the Kyushu region of southern Japan, the city takes advantage of its mild climate to grow "Haru no Ibuki," a variety of buckwheat that is sown in late March and harvested in late May or early June. Haru no Ibuki flowers can be seen at 1:22 in the video. The Shibushi Summer Soba Festival is an event where freshly harvested soba noodles are served. This article introduces tourist information for the Shibushi Summer Soba Festival. Be sure to check out the video to see the Shibushi Summer Soba Festival being held on the precincts of Yamamiya Shrine. What Kind of Event is the Shibushi Summer Soba Festival? Photo：The thatched ring used in the purification ceremony The Shibushi Summer Soba Festival in Shibushi, Kagoshima, is held on June 30 at Yamamiya Shrine, home to the National Natural Monument "Shibushi no Okusu" (The Great Camphor of Shibushi). Starting with a purification ceremony in which visitors pass through a "thatched ring" to pray for good health in the precincts of the shrine where the giant camphor, estimated to be 1,300 years old, stands, 1,000 servings of fresh soba, a special aromatic dish made with nihachi soba flour (8 parts buckwheat, 2 parts wheat flour), is served. In addition to soba, visitors can also enjoy conger eel tempura caught in Shibushi Bay as well as fresh green tea. Legend has it that the giant camphor tree, shown at 1:43 in the video, was planted by Emperor Tenchi (Emperor Tenji). Chinowa kuguri, a summer ritual that involves walking through a loop of cogon grass, can be seen at 2:51. The summer buckwheat harvest in Shibushi is the earliest in Japan, and the Shibushi Summer Soba Festival is held to celebrate the opening of the harvest. About the Shibushi Summer Soba Festival in Shibushi, Kagoshima Photo：Soba Summer soba in Shibushi is made with natural underground water rich in minerals that has passed through Shirasu-Daichi, a pyroclastic plateau originating from the Kirishima Mountains. The spring-sown soba has a unique flavor and is served with a sweet katsuoboshi (skipjack)-flavored dipping sauce. The summer soba of Shibushi has been produced since 2010 as part of Shibushi's community development efforts by growers who wish for good health and longevity. Fresh soba is available at nearby restaurants from the day of the Shibushi Summer Soba Festival and is also sold online. Tourist Information for Shibushi Summer Soba Festival 「To get to Yamamiya Shrine, the site of the Shibushi Summer Soba Festival, it's a 10-minute drive from JR Shibushi Station or a 20-minute drive from the Soo Yagoro Interchange. Parking is also available. Nearby are tourist attractions such as Daguri Cape Beach, Osaki Fureai no Sato Park, and Kuni no Matsubara Camping Ground, making it possible for visitors to travel while staying in touch with nature. Summary of the Shibushi Summer Soba Festival of Shibushi, Kagoshima The above video, titled "【Shibushi Summer Soba Festival】Shibushi City【Official】" introduces the Shibushi Summer Soba Festival. Enjoy traditional Japanese festivals and pray for good health by eating delicious soba noodles!

Tekone Sushi - A Local Dish Representing Mie Prefecture's Ise-Shima Region This video, titled "How to make "Tekone Sushi" - Traditional Japanese Cooking with Hazuki Kajiyama" (「手こね寿司」の作り方 | 梶山葉月の伝えていきたい日本の郷土料理), was uploaded by "Recipe Book TV" (レシピブックTV). It introduces how to make tekone sushi. Tekone sushi is a local dish that originated in the Ise-Shima region of Mie Prefecture. Nowadays, along with Ise udon stores, it is one of the two most popular foods in Ise-Shima. In this article, we'll will introduce a recipe and how to make delicious tekone sushi. We'll also take a look at Japanese food culture a bit! The video shows you how to make tekone sushi, with step-by-step instructions on how to make it. Be sure to check out the video to see the tasty dish you'll be able to whip up! Simple Tekone Sushi - How to Make the Local Dish of Ise-Shima, Mie! Photo：Skipjack tuna fillet Tekone sushi is characterized by the fact that it is, simply put, sushi that you don't hold. Originally, it was made by placing fish fillets on top of sushi rice, but nowadays, the most common way to serve it is to sprinkle chopped seaweed over the top. Due to its simplicity and how easy it is to make, it has become a popular standard dish in daily life. In the recipe presented in the video, the savory vegetables, including shiso, Japanese ginger, and welsh onions, are first cut and soaked in water. Then, while the odor is being removed, you slice the tuna into small strips. As you can see from 0:33 in the video, red meat fish is used, but you can use any fish you like and still get a delicious dish. For the sauce, mix soy sauce, mirin, and sake in a ratio of 2:1:1, and then marinate the sashimi in the sauce. As shown at 1:21 in the video, the sushi rice is made at the same time. The key is to not only add vinegar, but also sugar and salt. Once the sushi rice is done, top it with the shiso leaves, fish, and the rest of the vegetables in that order, and you're done! It's a very simple recipe. Easy and Delicious! Learn the Origins and History of Tekone Sushi! Photo：Tekone sushi From here, let's deepen our knowledge of the origins and history of tekone sushi! The exact origins of tekone sushi aren't clear, but one theory is that a fisherman from Shima invented tekone sushi. During his busy days fishing for skipjack tuna, he would quickly slice up one of the fish he caught and make it into a bowl like this. It is a quick and easy way to eat skipjack tuna, and it's also rich in nutrients such as vitamin D, B vitamins, and iron, as well as EPA and DHA, which help to thin the blood. It was like an all-purpose, nutritious fast food that could be eaten on the fly. However, rice has been scarce in the Shima region since ancient times, and bonito was also caught in the surrounding seas, so there is a theory that the dish was eaten to celebrate a big catch, and was preserved as a celebratory dish. In any case, because of its deep history and the fact that it is loved by many people, it was selected as one of the Top 100 Local Dishes of Rural Areas by Japan's Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry, and Fisheries, and can be considered one of Japan's representative regional specialties. Summary of Tekone Sushi, a Local Specialty of Ise-Shima, Mie As shown in the video, tekone sushi is delicious and easy to make. The unique, hand-made sushi is different from the normal sushi most people are used to and is one of the most important local dishes in Japan, which is why it's important to pass on recipes to future generations. You can visit Ise-Shima and try it there or use this video/article to make some at home. Try one of Japan's famous local specialties!

Video introduction of herring spawning "Gunrai" in Rumoi County, Hokkaido This video, titled "The Sea Turned White?! Drone Footage of a Pacific Herring Swarm!" (海が白くなる!? ニシン群来のドローン撮影に成功！), was uploaded by "Hidemi Imai" (今井秀美). In Obira, Hokkaido, the blue sea is dyed white as if milk has been spilled in it. This phenomenon is caused by herring swarms, which occurs when herring (in this case pacific herring), a fish heralding the arrival of spring in Hokkaido, spawn and fertilize eggs. A video shot from the sky captures the phenomenon that looks like a white sash on the blue sea. Large schools of pacific herring come to Obira to spawn, and you can see the beauty of life as they flop about the surface of the water. Check out the video to see the pacific herring swarm up close! What Kind of Place is Obira? Obira is a small town in western Hokkaido with a population of just a few thousand. It's located a few hours north of Sapporo via train, making it a bit of an out-of-the-way destination, but it's home to many tourist attractions. There are golf courses and surf spots, as well as facilities for learning about the local culture. In addition, there are ski resorts that can be enjoyed during the winter months, and campsites that can be visited during the summer. Obira is a nice destination to check out if you're looking for things to do in Hokkaido that are a bit more off the beaten path. Information about the Pacific Herring and the Causes and Conditions for Swarms in Hokkaido, Japan Photo：Pacific herring spawning The pacific herring (scientific name: clupea pallasii) is a silvery-white fish found mostly in the Pacific Ocean. Pacific herring are generally 30-35 cm (12-13 inches) long but can grow as large as 45 cm (~17.5 inches). Pacific herring feed on phytoplankton and zooplankton, and their natural predators are salmon, whales, seabirds, etc. Every year from February to March, the coast of the Sea of Japan in Hokkaido turns a milky white color. The pacific herring come to the coast in large numbers during spring, so much so, that they are said to herald the arrival of spring in Hokkaido. In the world of haiku, a type of Japanese poetry, the word "Nishin Kuki" (鰊群来, herring coming in large schools) is a seasonal word to symbolize spring. Herring swarms occur when herring come to the coast to spawn and fertilize eggs. The white colors are a phenomenon that occurs when males simultaneously fertilize eggs that have been laid on seaweed. In 1954, after being observed along the coast from Yoichi to Oshoro, a 20km stretch on the peninsula northwest of Sapporo, the pacific herring swarms were not observed again for many years. It wasn't until 1999 that the pacific herring swarms were observed in the area, for the first time in 45 years. In order for the herring swarms to occur, two conditions must be met: the sea must be calm during the herring spawning season, and the water temperature must be relatively high, around 5 degrees Celsius. In addition, the herring swarms seem more likely to occur on cloudy days from February to April. When and Where to See the Pacific Herring Swarms Source :YouTube screenshot The herring swarms are a phenomenon seen during the spawning season, which, for the pacific herring in Japan, is from late January to early May, and February to March is said to be the most active season. In addition, since spawning often takes place at night, the ocean can be seen turning milky white around dawn, disappearing around noon. This means that you have a higher chance of seeing the phenomenon during the morning. The places where herring swarms can be seen are the coasts of Hokkaido along the Sea of Japan and within Ishikari Bay. In Otaru, herring is synonymous with spring. If you want to see the herring swarms, we recommend visiting the Otaru coast from February to March! However, because it's a natural phenomenon, it's not always possible to see the pacific herring swarms, even if you visit at the right time and place. That being said, it's still worth a try to see the incredible sight. Delicious, Seasonal Pacific Herring Recipes! Photo：Nishin soba In Hokkaido, which is famous for herring production, there are various ways to eat delicious seasonal herring. Pacific herring are considered to be in season only in spring, but it's said that they are also in season in autumn. In Japan, pacific herring are processed in many different ways. Some of these are herring roe, kombu-maki (kelp rolls), nuka nishin (herring in rice-bran paste), and migaki nishin (dried and sliced herring). One of the rarest products is frozen herring stuffed with mentaiko (spicy cod roe). Migaki nishin is famous for its use in nishin soba (a bowl of soba topped with a dried herring), a specialty of Kyoto. In addition, we also recommend carpaccio, which is made by cutting the fish into three pieces and pouring a seasoning mixture of lemon juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper over the meat. The herring and pumpkin pie from Ghibli's "Kiki's Delivery Service" is another dish that tastes even better when made with pacific herring caught during season in Hokkaido. If you like cooking, we recommend trying a simple recipe, which requires just some cooked herring, vegetable paste, white sauce, and cheese inside a pie topping, and then baking. Seaweed With Roe From the Pacific Herring Photo：Komochi kombu When herring come to the shallows to spawn in large schools, they lay their eggs on seaweed. Because the eggs are sticky, they tend to adhere to seaweed, such as kombu (edible kelp) and wakame seaweed. Originally, natural seaweeds on which the eggs were laid naturally were harvested, but due to a decrease in catches, there are fewer and fewer of them. Therefore, seaweed is now hung where the pacific herring will pass by to encourage spawning. The result of pickling these seaweeds in salt creates 2 delicious types of seaweed called komochi kombu and komochi wakame. They are often used in festive New Year's dishes in Japan to bring good luck. Summary of Herring Swarms and Spawning in Hokkaido The pacific herring swarms resemble a milky white sash fluttering in the blue sea. The contrast between the blue and white colors allows for some vivid photography as well. It's fascinating to think that this phenomenon occurs when large schools of herring gather to spawn and release their sperm in order to procreate. If you're traveling to Hokkaido in February and March during spring, consider visiting the coast of Otaru. If you're lucky, you may be able to see the herring swarms, a mysterious phenomenon of life.

■Table of Contents Kyoto Cherry Blossom Spots Video What is Hanami? Kyoto Cherry Blossom Forecast 2023 The 20 Best Kyoto Cherry Blossom Spots Cherry Blossom Spots in Higashiyama - Kiyomizudera Temple - Kodaiji Temple - Maruyama Park - Gion Shirakawa Canal Cherry Blossom Spots in Sakyo, Kyoto - Philosopher's Path - Keage Incline - Okazaki Canal - Heian Shrine - Nakaragi no Michi, Kamo River Cherry Blossoms Spots in Kita, Kyoto - Hirano Shrine Cherry Blossoms Spots in Nakagyo, Kyoto - Nijo Castle Cherry Blossoms Spots in Ukyo, Kyoto - Arashiyama - Tenryuji Temple - Keifuku Electric Railway (Randen) - Ninnaji Temple Cherry Blossoms Spots in Minami, Kyoto - Toji Temple Cherry Blossoms Spots in Fushimi, Kyoto - Daigoji Temple - Jonangu Shrine Cherry Blossoms Spots in Uji, Kyoto - Byodoin Temple Cherry Blossoms Spots in Yawata, Kyoto - Sewaritei Hidden Cherry Blossom Spots at 3 Shrines in Kyoto What to Wear During Cherry Blossom Season in Kyoto Hanami Manners to Observe Summary of Cherry Blossoms in Kyoto The Best Cherry Blossom Spots in Kyoto: Video Introduction This video, titled "4K Japan – 30 Kyoto Cherry Blossom Spots (Sakura) Kyoto Sightseeing Travel Guide/Shimizu Temple/Heian Shrine/Arashiyama/Maruyama Park/Philosopher's Path/Daigoji Temple/Nijo Castle/Gion Shirakawa" (4K Japan Kyoto Cherry Blossom Spot 30 (sakura) 京都の桜名所30 京都観光 旅行 案内 清水寺 平安神宮 嵐山 円山公園 哲学の道 醍醐寺 二条城 祇園白川), was uploaded by "Discover Nippon." Kyoto is a city that never ceases to fascinate visitors with its beautiful streets that blend ancient Japanese traditions and culture with a modern atmosphere. Kyoto attracts many tourists in spring. The purpose of this visit is the cherry blossoms, which bloom brilliantly and beautifully.Kyoto is said to be the most popular cherry blossom spot in Japan. From cherry blossoms blooming in historic temples to cherry blossoms blending into urban cityscapes, Kyoto offers a wide variety of spots to enjoy the cherry blossoms. This video introduces 30 cherry blossom spots in Kyoto accompanied by views of the city. it starts from the upper reaches of Kamo River, Kiyomizudera Temple, Philosopher's Path, Heian Shrine, Arashiyama, Daigoji Temple, Maruyama Park, and other famous cherry blossom viewing spots on the itinerary of every traveler to Japan. By the end of the video, you'll have been enchanted by fantastical cherry blossoms illuminated at dusk, apprentice geisha on the streets of Kyoto, Kiyomizudera Temple, Maruyama Park, Gion Shirakawa, and other spectacular views. Enjoy the beautiful cherry blossoms in Kyoto, the ancient capital of Japan, via video. What is Hanami? The Tradition of Cherry Blossom Viewing in Japan Hanami (花見, lit. 'Flower Viewing') is the Japanese tradition of cherry blossom viewing. While the word "hanami" is made up of the characters "花" (Hana, 'Flower') and "見" (Mi, 'See'/'View'), in modern-day Japan, it refers to viewing sakura (桜) or "cherry blossoms." During the spring, when the cherry blossoms bloom, there are festivals and events held to welcome the arrival of spring and appreciate the ephemeral beauty of the cherry blossoms. Hanami parties are often held at parks and other places where the cherry blossoms are blooming, in the form of picnics and barbecues, with tarps laid under the trees for participants to sit on. Many people buy snacks like onigiri (rice balls) and karaage (Japanese fried chicken) from nearby convenience stores and supermarkets for hanami parties, as well as other dishes like sushi and dango (Japanese dumplings made from rice flour). Hanami festivals often take place in parks and feature lanterns hanging between the trees, as well as a variety of food stalls selling things like yakitori (chicken skewers), yakisoba, crepes, etc. There may also be music and other performances as well, but this will vary with each event. The expected bloom date for Kyoto in 2024 is around March 23, and the expected full bloom date is around March 31. Since weeping cherry blossoms bloom earlier than Somei Yoshino cherries, and Benishidare Sakura bloom later than Somei Yoshino cherries, visitors to Kyoto visitors can expect to enjoy the cherry blossoms from late March to mid-April in Kyoto in a normal year. In 2023, someiyoshino were declared to be in full bloom on March 17, earlier than normal due to high temperatures in February and March, but as of January 2024, they are expected to be on par with or slightly earlier than normal. In addition to the fully blooming cherry blossoms, other spectacular views, such as cherry blossom blizzards, cherry blossoms floating on water, and cherry blossom carpets, are also incredibly beautiful and enhance the beauty of Kyoto, the ancient capital of Japan. In addition to Somei Yoshino cherry trees, Kyoto is also famous for late-blooming cherry blossoms, namely its signature Benishidare Sakura. The 20 Best Kyoto Cherry Blossom Spots + Information About Nighttime Cherry Blossoms, Illuminations, and More! Kyoto has many famous cherry blossom spots, but if you're not familiar with Kyoto, it's not easy to know where to go to see the cherry blossoms. With that in mind, we've compiled a list of the 20 best cherry blossom spots in Kyoto by area. Information on nighttime cherry blossoms and illuminations are also included in the article, so be sure to use this as a guide for enjoying the cherry blossoms in Kyoto in 2023! Cherry Blossom Spots in Higashiyama – Gion, Kyoto Photo：Cherry blossoms and the 3-story pagoda at Kiyomizudera Temple, Kyoto ● Kiyomizudera Temple The precincts of Kiyomizudera Temple, an ancient temple recognized as a World Heritage site in Kyoto, Japan, are home to approximately 1,500 cherry trees, including Somei Yoshino cherry trees and east Asian cherries. The view of the cherry blossoms from Okunoin Temple is especially spectacular. The three-story pagoda seen over the cherry blossoms from Hoshoike Pond is also a picturesque sight. If you visit Kiyomizudera Temple, be sure to see the "Jishu-zakura" cherry blossoms that blooms at Jishu Shrine on the left side of the temple grounds. This is a rare variety of cherry blossom with both single and double blossoms, and it's said that in the Heian period (794-1185), Emperor Saga made two or three trips to the temple to admire the beauty of these cherry blossoms. Kiyomizu-dera Temple will be illuminated from March 23 to March 31, 2024, creating a fantastic sight different from that of the daytime. A Video Article Related to Kiyomizudera Video article 3:50 Kyoto at Night - Like a Scene From a Movie! Enjoy the Magnificent Scenery of Kyoto in Beautiful 4K! YouTube ● Kodaiji Temple Along with Arashiyama, Kyoto's Higashiyama ward is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Kyoto. Nene-no-michi (ねねの道, lit. 'Nene Road') is located in this area embodying the historical atmosphere of Kyoto with its stone-paved streets and temples. Named after Kodai-in (nicknamed 'Nene'), a Buddhist nun, aristocrat, and the wife of Toyotomi Hideyoshi, this path leads to Kodaiji Temple, which was founded by Nene to mourn the death of her husband Hideyoshi. Known for its autumn foliage, Kodaiji Temple is also famous for its cherry blossoms. One weeping cherry tree in Hashintei Garden in front of the chief priest's chambers is particularly famous. Although it is only one cherry tree, its vivid blossoms blooming beautifully above the white sand are in harmony with the dry rock garden, and it's well worth seeing. Kodaiji Temple will hold a special nighttime viewing from March 15 to May 6, 2024. Unlike during the daytime, the temple grounds, including the garden and halls, will be lit up, allowing visitors to enjoy the fantastic cherry blossoms. The Hojo-mae garden, where projection mapping is used, is especially popular. Photo：The weeping cherry blossoms at Maruyama Park, Kyoto ● Maruyama Park If one were to ask, "Where is the most famous cherry blossom spot in Kyoto?", answering with "The Gion Weeping Cherry Tree in Maruyama Park," would be no lie. The Gion Weeping Cherry Tree is located on a small hill behind Yasaka Shrine, and has been nicknamed "Gion-san" (-san is a suffix added to a name to show respect) by the locals, and surrounded by a fence. On a clear day, you can photograph the blue skies and the large weeping cherry blossom here. It is also known as "Gion no Yozakura" (祇園の夜桜, the nighttime cherry blossom of Gion), and its fantastically illuminated appearance attracts many people. The official name of this cherry tree is "Hitoe Shiro Higan Hitoe Zakura (一重白彼岸枝垂桜)," and it is an Edohigan cherry tree. The second-generation cherry tree is over 90 years old and has grown to a height of approximately 12 meters. Maruyama Park is very lively during the cherry blossom season, with various food stalls and many people gathering in the area. If you have never seen the cherry blossoms, consider stopping by Maruyama Park; you'll be amazed at the beauty of the blossoms! ● Gion Shirakawa Canal Gion Shirakawa, with its distinctive lattice doors and elegant streetscape of historical merchant houses, is another famous cherry blossom spot in Kyoto. The Gion Shirakawa Canal is lined with 43 different types of cherry trees, including Somei Yoshino cherryies, weeping cherries, yamazakura, and more. One of the most popular areas is from Kawabata Dori (川端通, Kawabata Street) to the east along the Shirakawa Canal. Here, the cherry blossoms form an archway, blocking out the sky. There is a stone pavilion on one side of the street, so tourists can take a break and look up at the beautiful cherry blossoms blanketing the sky. People can often be seen taking photos with the arched cherry blossoms in the background. From March 22 to 31, 2024, "Gion Shirakawa Yoizakura Light-up" will be held at Gion Shirakawa River, led by local stores and residents. There are restaurants around the area, so you can enjoy a meal while watching the fantastic nighttime cherry blossoms.Gion Shirakawa is easily accessible, being just a 5-minute walk from Gion Shijo Station on the Keihan Electric Railway. Cherry Blossom Spots in Sakyo, Kyoto Photo：Cherry blossoms at Philosopher's Path, Kyoto ● Philosopher's Path The Philosopher's Path, named after the philosopher Kitaro Nishida and his disciples, as well as other literary figures who strolled along it, has been selected as one of the "Top 100 Streets in Japan." Some 400 cherry trees can be seen along the 2-km-long Philosopher's Path that runs along the Sosui Canal, where many philosophers would have walked in contemplation. The path is reminiscent of a tunnel of cherry blossoms, and a leisurely stroll along it with the spring breeze is sure to leave you feeling peaceful. The Philosopher's Path starts from Kumano Nyakuoji Shrine and continues to Ginkakuji Temple. Along the path you can find famous tourist attractions, such as Nanzenji Temple, allowing sightseers to take a leisurely stroll through famous landmarks in Kyoto. ● Keage Incline The Keage Incline was an incline railroad built to carry ships back and forth on the slope from Keage Boat Reservoir to the Nanzenji Boat Reservoir. Although the line is now closed, it has been restored to its original state, allowing visitors to enjoy a view from the past. Approximately 90 Somei Yoshino cherry trees are planted along the railroad, forming an arch of breathtaking cherry blossoms. The Keage Incline is also a popular spot for Instagrammers and photographers. A Video Article Related to Keage Incline Video article 6:16 Keage Incline – Cherry Blossoms Along a Disused Railroad in Kyoto + Nanzenji Temple and Other Attractions in the Area YouTube ● Okazaki Canal Next up is the Lake Biwa Canal, a waterway built in the Meiji period to send water from Lake Biwa, a river source in Kyoto. The Okazaki Canal is a canal that passes through the Okazaki area where Heian Shrine and Kyoto City Zoo are located. The Okazaki Canal is dotted with around 400 Somei Yoshino cherry trees, and when they're in full bloom, you can enjoy cherry blossoms on both banks of the canal and reflected on the surface of the water in the canal itself. From March 20 to April 14, 2024, "Okazaki Sakura Kairo Jubune Meguri (Okazaki Cherry Blossom Corridor Ten Boat Tour)" will be held on the Okazaki Sosui (Canal) by a boat called "Jusekibune (ten stone boats)". Why not enjoy viewing the cherry blossoms along the Sosui River from the comfort of a boat?The beautiful rows of cherry blossoms seen from the boat have become popular as a springtime tradition. Photo：Cherry blossoms at the large torii gate of Heian Shrine, Kyoto ● Heian Shrine Heian Shrine, a relatively new shrine in Kyoto, was built in the Meiji period (1868-1912) and is characterized by its 24-meter-tall torii gate. Heian Shrine, dyed beautifully by the cherry blossoms during spring, has become popular from the "Kyoto 5-Shrine Tour," which takes visitors on a tour of Kamigamo Shrine, Matsunoo Taisha Shrine, Heian Shrine, Yasaka Shrine, and Jonangu Shrine. At Heian Jingu Shrine, approximately 300 cherry trees of some 20 varieties, including Somei Yoshino cherry trees and Benishidare Sakura can be enjoyed. The contrast between the Benishidare Sakura and the vermilion color of the shrine's pavilions is simply gorgeous. From March 31 to April 11, 2024, the "Heian Jingu Shrine Cherry Blossom Viewing Tea Ceremony" will be held to view the cherry blossoms while enjoying green tea. Also, from April 3 to 7, the "Benishidare Concert" will be held amidst the illuminated cherry blossoms, attracting many visitors. A Video Article Related to Heian Shrine Video article 2:28 Heian Shrine Is a Popular Sightseeing Spot You Don't Want To Miss When Visiting Kyoto! Vermilion Shrines, Scenic Gardens, and Many More Sights Make It One of Kyoto's Top Power Spots! YouTube ● Nakaragi no Michi, Kamo River Nakaragi no Michi (半木の道) is a walking path on the east side of the embankment from Kitayama Ohashi Bridge (北山大橋) to the Kitaoji Ohashi Bridge (北大路大橋). The path is named after Nakaragi Shrine located in the Kyoto Botanical Gardens and features many beautiful cherry blossoms. When the Benishidare Sakura planted along the 840-meter path are in full bloom, it forms a tunnel of cherry blossoms, delighting tourists and locals alike. The Kamo River bank, where many weeping cherry trees are planted, is nicknamed "Hana no Kairo" (花の回廊, Corridor of Flowers). Going for a stroll along the river while enjoying the flowers is another recommended activity for appreciating the cherry blossoms in Kyoto. A Video Article Related to the Kamo River Video article 3:06 Kamogawa Nouryou-Yuka – A Summer Tradition of Cool Riverside Dining in Kyoto YouTube Cherry Blossoms Spots in Kita, Kyoto Photo：Nighttime cherry blossoms at Hirano Shrine, Kyoto ● Hirano Shrine Hirano Shrine, is thought to have been founded in 794 with the relocation of the capital to Kyoto, at the order of Emperor Kanmu. The shrine has been known since the Edo period (1603-1868) as a popular nighttime cherry blossom spot in Kyoto. Bearing the cherry blossom as its shrine crest, Hirano Shrine, is home to 400 cherry trees of approximately 60 different varieties. The cherry blossoms at Hirano Shrine bloom from late March to mid-April and are illuminated during the cherry blossom season. The fantastic "Hirano no Yozakura" (平野の夜桜 'Nighttime Cherry Blossoms of Hirano') is an exciting event for viewing the cherry blossoms. On April 10, the date when Emperor Kazan is said to have planted cherry trees at the shrine by hand, a cherry blossom festival called "Oka-sai" (桜花祭) is held. It features a festive historical procession. Cherry Blossoms Spots in Nakagyo, Kyoto ● Nijo Castle Famous as a World Heritage Site, Nijo Castle is also a famous cherry blossom spot in Kyoto. The castle is adorned with 300 cherry trees of around 50 varieties, which dye the castle a pale pink color in spring. Among the cherry blossom viewing spots at Nijo Castle, Karamon Gate, a National Treasure, seen through the vivid cherry blossoms, is easily one of the best. The arch created by Somei Yoshino cherries and weeping cherry trees in Seiryu-en Garden is also popular. From March 8 to April 7, 2024, "Nijo Castle Cherry Blossom Festival 2024" will be held. During the day, various events such as Kyoto's specialty exhibition, kitchen cars, and cultural experience events will be held, and at night, visitors can enjoy the illuminated night cherry blossoms. In addition, visitors can enjoy the digital art of projection mapping by NAKED,INK. A Video Article Related to Nijo Castle Video article 4:51 Nijo Castle - A Historic Castle That Saw Both the Rise and Fall of the Tokugawa Shogunate. This World Heritage Site in Kyoto Is One To Throw on Your Bucket List! YouTube Cherry Blossoms Spots in Ukyo, Kyoto ● Arashiyama Arashiyama is perhaps the most famous tourist attraction in Kyoto. In addition to the autumn leaves in the fall, the cherry blossom season also attracts many tourists, who come to enjoy the beautiful spring scenery. In addition, from late March to early April, the weeping cherry trees in Arashiyama Nakanoshima Park will be illuminated. Please note, however, that this event may be delayed or canceled depending on blooming conditions and other circumstances. Since the Arashiyama area is dotted with cherry blossom spots, it may be a good idea to spend a day touring the cherry blossom spots, such as Tenryuji Temple, which will be introduced next. A Video Article Related to Arashiyama Video article 2:47 Arashiyama Is One of the Most Beautiful Spots in Kyoto, and a Place to Experience the Natural Beauty of Japan. Take a Trip to the "Arashiyama Bamboo Forest," a 400-Meter-Long Natural Bamboo Forest, to Soothe Your Body and Mind! YouTube ● Tenryuji Temple Tenryuji Temple was built by Ashikaga Takauji to mourn the loss of Emperor Godaigo. The temple is famous for its garden, Sogen-ike Garden, which was the first garden in Japan to be designated as a National Historic Site and a Special Place of Scenic Beauty. The garden, with Arashiyama and Kameyama in the background, is home to approximately 200 cherry trees, including weeping cherry blossoms, someiyoshino cherries, yamazakura, and yaezakura. Of these, the weeping cherry trees around Tahoden Hall offer beautiful bright pink blossoms at eye level. The view of the cherry blossoms from Mangyo no Oka Hill is a must-see spot from which you can view both the gardens of Tenryuji Temple and the city of Kyoto, so be sure to stop by when you visit. ● Keifuku Electric Railway (Randen) Did you know you can enjoy the cherry blossoms from inside a train? Located between Narutaki and Utano Stations on the Keifuku Electric Railway's Randen Line is a cherry blossom tunnel. The cherry blossom tunnel features approximately 70 cherry trees on both sides of the tracks for around 200 meters. When the cherry blossoms are in full bloom, they cover the sky and form a tunnel, allowing passengers to enjoy the view from the train windows as the entire area is tinted a pale pink. Until 2019, the train would be illuminated at night and run slowly with the interior lights dimmed, but unfortunately this has now been suspended in order to maintain the cherry blossoms. Photo：Cherry blossoms at Ninnaji Temple, Kyoto ● Ninnaji Temple Even after the someiyoshino cherry trees have finished blooming, there are still many spots in Kyoto to enjoy the cherry blossoms. One such place is Ninnaji Temple, which is a favorite among the people of Kyoto. Ninnaji Temple is a temple of the Omuro School of the Shingon sect of Buddhism. The temple was founded in 888 and is home to late-blooming "Omuro-zakura" cherry trees are at their best in mid-April. Characterized by their short stature, the beautiful cherry blossoms can be from up close, giving visitors the feeling that they're walking through a cloud of cherry blossoms. Additionally, the area on the west side of the temple, past the central gate, has been designated a National Place of Scenic Beauty and is home to approximately 200 cherry trees. The view created by the five-story pagoda and the Omuro-zakura cherry blossoms is a sight enjoyed by many people. Cherry Blossoms Spots in Minami, Kyoto ● Toji Temple Toji Temple, known as the temple gifted by Kukai, the founder of the Shingon sect of Buddhism, is officially called Kyo-o Gokokuji Temple. The most eye-catching and beautiful cherry tree on the temple grounds is the Fuji-zakura. This large weeping cherry tree, which blooms in front of a five-story pagoda on the temple grounds, is more than 120 years old. It is known as the symbol of Toji Temple, but it was actually grown in the city of Morioka, in Iwate Prefecture, and came to Toji Temple after passing through Akita and Mie prefectures. In addition, Toji Temple is home to approximately 200 cherry trees, which include Somei Yoshino cherries and more. The temple will be illuminated from March 16 to April 14, 2024. The Kondo, the auditorium, the Fuji cherry blossoms, and the five-story pagoda are illuminated to create a mysterious scene. Many people visit every day to catch a glimpse of the beauty. A Video Article Related to Toji Temple Video article 2:46 Explore the Beautiful Japanese Atmosphere of Kanchi-in, a Garden at Toji Temple in Kyoto♫ The Temple of Study, Which Has Produced Many Learned Priests, Enshrines the Buddha of Wisdom, "Akasagarbha," One of the Eight Great Bodhisattvas! YouTube Cherry Blossoms Spots in Fushimi, Kyoto ● Daigoji Temple Daigoji Temple was founded as the head temple of the Daigo School of the Shingon sect of Buddhism. The Daigoji Temple is large, consisting of both an upper (Kami Daigo) and lower (Shimo Daigo) section, as well as the Sanboin Temple section. The temple ground are famous for being the setting of "Daigo no Hanami" a historic cherry blossom party held by the famous Japanese warlord Toyotomi Hideyoshi, which was attended by some 1,000 guests. Since the Heian period (794-1185), Daigoji Temple has been called "Hana no Daigo" (花の醍醐, Daigo of Flowers) and is famous for its cherry blossoms. About 700 cherry trees of all different varieties can be enjoyed at the temple. In the Shimo-Daigo area (Lower section of the temple grounds), where the main hall and other buildings are located, visitors can enjoy the magical sight of weeping cherry blossoms, Somei Yoshino cherries, and yamazakura cherries blooming beautifully. In addition, the 150-year-old Taiko Shidare Zakura, a weeping cherry tree in front of the grand entrance of Sanboin Temple, is a superb spot for enjoying the cherry blossoms. A Video Article Related to Daigoji Temple Video article 5:47 Cherry Blossoms at Daigoji Temple in Kyoto - Enjoy Cherry Blossoms at a Temple Where Japanese Warlords Once Did the Same. Tourist Information & More for This Popular Hanami Spot YouTube ● Jonangu Shrine Although Jonangu Shrine is famous for its plum blossoms, it is actually also a famous cherry blossom viewing spot. Rakusuien Garden, located at Jonangu Shrine, is known as the flower garden from the Tale of Genji, and within it are Benishidare Sakura, bellflower cherries, and yamazakura cherries. The garden is popular for its tasteful scenery of dark pink weeping cherry blossoms on green grass, which gradually transitions to lighter colors. Visitors can also relax and admire the beauty of the Benishidare Sakura while sipping tea and enjoying sweets at the tea house, Rakusuiken. A Video Article Related to Jonangu Shrine Video article 2:43 Jonangu Shrine's Yutate Kagura Festival: The Solemn and Graceful Atmosphere of This Traditional Japanese Festival Was Even the Influence for the Famous Studio Ghibli Movie, "Spirited Away"! YouTube Cherry Blossoms Spots in Uji, Kyoto ● Byodoin Temple Byodoin Temple, the symbol of Uji, was built by Fujiwara no Yorimichi and is famous for appearing on the 10-yen coin, and is also recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Byodoin Temple's cherry blossom spot is Aji-ike Pond in front of the Phoenix Hall. When the Somei Yoshino cherry trees and weeping cherry trees surrounding Aji-ike Pond are in full bloom, the beauty of the Phoenix Hall seen through the cherry blossoms is truly breathtaking. The reflection of the temple on the surface of Aji-ike Pond is another stunning sight. In 2023, "Special Night Viewing" was held for travel agency tour participants on March 24-25, April 1-3, 7, and 8. Every year, Byodoin Temple is illuminated during the cherry blossom viewing season, and visitors can enjoy viewing the cherry blossoms at night. In 2024, special spring nights will be held from March 22nd, 23rd, 29th, April 1st to 4th and 5th for travel agency tours. Someiyoshino cherry trees, weeping cherry trees, peony cherry trees, and yaezakura cherry trees are planted on both banks of the upper Uji Bridge. The number of cherry trees is more than 2,000, and when they are in full bloom, you can see a magnificent row of beautiful cherry trees. The "Uji Cherry Blossom Festival" will be held at Uji Park from April 6 to 7, 2024. The festival will also include the Uji River Spring Market, where Uji's specialties and other products will be on display. A Video Article Related to Byodoin Temple Video article 6:13 Kyoto's World Heritage Site's Byodoin Temple's Phoenix Hall and Ujigami Shrine Are Two Historic Japanese Shrines That Attract People From All Over the World. Be Intoxicated by the Beautiful Scenery and Feel the History of Japan! YouTube Cherry Blossoms Spots in Yawata, Kyoto ● Sewaritei Sewaritei, where the Kizu and Uji Rivers come together, is also known as a cherry blossom spot. Sewaritei is located in a national park as the Seawari area of the Yodogawa Riverside Park, and is dyed a pale pink color in the spring. Along the river, approximately 220 Somei Yoshino cherry trees create a 1.4-km-long cherry blossom tunnel. Visitors can enjoy the view of cherry blossoms while strolling along the nature-filled riverbed. The Sakura-deai Visitor Center has an observation tower overlooking the cherry blossoms and a rest area, so families can enjoy the cherry blossoms together while having a picnic. A Video Article Related to Sewaritei Video article 15:24 Spring Is a Wonderful Time of Year When the Whole of Kyoto Is Bathed in the Brilliant Colors of Cherry Blossoms! Explore Some of Kyoto’s Most Popular Cherry Blossom Viewing Locations! YouTube Hidden Cherry Blossom Spots at 3 Shrines in Kyoto So far, we've introduced famous cherry blossom spots in Kyoto. Here, we'll introduce three less famous, but still worthwhile, cherry blossom spots. The first is Rokusonno Shrine, a shrine located in Minami, Kyoto. It is one of the Three Genji Shrines, and was dedicated to Minamoto no Tsunemoto, the founder of the Minamoto clan. Rokusonno Shrine is home to Somei Yoshino cherries, weeping cherries, yamazakura cherries, and Ukonzakura, a cherry tree with yellow-green blossoms. The shrine also features a stone torii gate with red lanterns on both sides of it, and the cherry blossoms surrounding it make it popular amongst photographers and Instagrammers. The second shrine is Oharano Shrine. Located in Kyoto City's Nishikyo Ward, Oharano Shrine is known for its weeping cherry tree. The cherry tree is referred to as a "phantom cherry blossom" because its petals fall just three days after blooming, and it's said that a thousand of your wishes will come true if you can see it. If you have a wish you want to make come true, be sure to visit and see the phantom cherry blossoms. The last shrine we'll introduce is Takenaka Inari Shrine. The shrine is located near the top of Mt. Yoshida in Sakyo, Kyoto, and is famous for its proximity to Kyoto University. The straight approach to the shrine is lined with torii gates and cherry blossoms, and the vermilion of the torii gates harmonizes with the pale pink of the cherry blossoms, resulting in some incredible photos. Because it's rarely mentioned in tourist guides, this is a cherry blossom spot where locals experience the arrival of spring. What to Wear During Cherry Blossom Season in Kyoto Spring in Kyoto is from March to May, with the cherry blossoms being in full bloom in early April. Because spring is over a span of 3 months, despite it technically being spring, the temperatures can change drastically. Below are the average temperatures for Kyoto during spring in 2022: March: 10.5°C (50.9°F) April: 16.5°C (61.7°F) May: 19.7°C (67.5°F) Based on this information our recommendations for what to wear are as follows: Kyoto March Clothing: As spring has only arrived in name, the first half of March in Kyoto can be quite cold. Because of this, we recommend bringing a warm jacket, as well as gloves and knit hats if you're visiting during this period. Towards the middle of March, the temperature will start to increase and you'll likely be okay with lighter sweaters and coats and will no longer need gloves and caps. Those looking to wears dresses and shirts should be sure to wear thicker tights. Kyoto April Clothing: April in Kyoto is quite a bit warmer than March and you will likely be fine with light jackets, windbreakers, and sweaters. As the temperature is much more variable in April, it's a good idea to have a decent mix of both heavier and lighter clothing. Kyoto May Clothing: Kyoto is much warmer in May and you'll likely no longer need a jacket at all. With an average temperature nearing the 20s (70°F), you'll likely be wearing a t-shirt and shorts most of the time, but on colder days, especially during the morning and evening, it can cool down quite a bit, so it's a good idea to have some long-sleeve shirts as well. Hanami Manners to Observe for a Pleasant Cherry Blossom Viewing Experience Hanami parties are a great way to enjoy the cherry blossoms and spring weather, but there are a few manners to keep in mind so that both you, and everyone around you, can have a nice time. 1. Don't Touch the Cherry Blossoms The cherry blossoms are very beautiful and it can be tempting to want to touch them, whether it be for a photo or just to feel the petals. That being said, the cherry blossom are also very fragile and you can easily end up knocking the petals off of the flowers or even worse, breaking a branch on one of the trees. This can ruin the hanami experience for everyone in the area, so it's best to avoid touching them altogether. 2. Drink in Moderation and Be Mindful of Others Hanami parties often features alcohol, such as beer or plum wine, and while it's completely fine to consume these, it's also important to know your limit. You don't want to end up drinking too much and bothering the people around you by being loud, falling over, or worst case, throwing up. If you plan on drinking, be sure to take it slow; you'll likely be enjoying the blossoms over the course of a couple hours anyways. Additionally, even if you don't plan on drinking, do your best to be considerate of others and avoid talking and playing music loudly. 3. Properly Dispose of Trash While most parks have large trash areas for dumping garbage, this is not always the case. Be sure to check ahead of time if the hanami spot you're going to has garbage areas, and if not, take some garbage bags with you so you can take your garbage home and dispose of it properly. The most important thing is to not litter in the park, as this spoils the views, and makes the space less enjoyable for cherry blossom viewing. In addition to these manners, each park will have its own rules, and it's important to abide by them. Some parks might not allow barbecuing, while others may not allow alcohol or pets. Abiding by the rules and manners will ensure that everyone will have a delightful hanami party! Summary of Cherry Blossoms in Kyoto Kyoto is a tourist destination that attracts many travelers because of its ancient traditions and culture. During the cherry blossom season, the prefecture is crowded with many tourists who come to enjoy viewing the cherry blossoms while experiencing Japanese traditions. In addition to the cherry blossom spots introduced here, there are many other hanami spots in Kyoto where beautiful cherry blossoms bloom. Visit Kyoto during the cherry blossom season and encounter traditional Japanese culture and breathtaking spring flowers!

Video introduction of "Isumi Railway" & "Kominato Railway" rape blossoms and cherry blossoms in Boso Peninsula, Chiba Prefecture This video, titled "[4K UHD] Kominato and Isumi Railways in Spring (shot on Samsung NX1)" ([ 4K UHD ] 春の小湊鉄道といすみ鉄道 - Kominato railway and Isumi railway in Spring - (shot on Samsung NX1), was uploaded by "AQUA Geo Graphic." The video shows the Kominato Railway (小湊鉄道, kominato tetsudo) and Isumi Railway (いすみ鉄道)—which run across Chiba prefecture's Boso Peninsula—in spring. No matter your age or where you come from, this is definitely a place you'll want to check out, especially if you’re a train enthusiast. Visible in the window across from the train driver are the figures of excited children. Check out this uplifting three-and-a-half-minute video, filled with pink cherry blossoms and vibrant yellow rapeseed blossoms. [Video] 1:28 - Cherry Blossoms, Rapeseed, and the Smiling Faces of Children The Difference Between the Isumi and Kominato Railways Photo：Kominato Railway The Isumi Railway covers around 27 kilometers on the JR Boso line (JR房総線, JR Bososen), stretching from Ohara station (大原駅, ohara-eki) to Kazusa-Nakano station (上総中野駅, kazusanakano-eki). The Kominato Railway makes up around 39 kilometers of the JR Uchibo line (JR内房線, JR uchibo sen) between Goi station (五井駅, goi-eki) and Kazusa-Nakano Station. The two railways meet at Kazusa-Nakano station, and if you switch trains there, it's possible to ride across the entire Boso peninsula—just the right distance for a railway day trip. There's even a "Boso Coast to Coast Commemorative Ticket" (房総横断記念乗車券, boso odan kinen joshaken) available as a souvenir via a collaboration between the two companies. If you're visiting from Tokyo, it should take a little under an hour via the JR Sobu Rapid (JR総武快速線) and Uchibo lines. Arriving at Chiba's Goi station, a walk across the bridge will take you to the local line (the Kominato railway) and the start of your journey. In a location that can be enjoyed as a day trip from downtown Tokyo, those with train-loving kids can have an enjoyable day out as well. Cherry Blossoms & the Nanohana Ressha on the Isumi Railway Most famous amongst the Isumi railways trains is the "Nanohana Ressha," (菜の花列車, lit. 'Rapeseed Train'), whose rolling stock is yellow, just like the rapeseed blossoms. The best time to see the rapeseed that lines the railway and is famous for its incredible views is between early March and early April of each year. From late March, the cherry blossoms are in season, and by early April you can see beautiful scenes of cherry blossom in full bloom. Keep an eye on the cherry blossom bloom maps and enjoy both cherry blossoms and rapeseed blossoms from the window of a train. The Best Spots to Photograph the Isumi Railway's Rape Blossoms & Cherry Blossoms! Photo：Isumi Railway On the Isumi Railway between Kazusa-Azuma Station (上総東駅, kazusa azusa-eki) and Nittano Station (新田野駅, nittano-eki), Shiromiaoka Station (城見ヶ丘駅, shiromigaoka-eki) and Otaki Station (大多喜駅, otaki-eki), as well between as Fusamoto station (総元駅, fusamoto-eki) and Nishihata Station (西畑駅, nishihata-eki), you can see rapeseed blossoms and cherry blossoms competing for the spotlight. See if you can't capture a shot of the pinks and yellows under the blue skies of spring. Rapeseed blossoms bloom along 15 kilometers of the Isumi Railway's 27-kilometer span, meaning you can enjoy them along almost the entire length of the track. If you're a train enthusiast, finding the best photo spot is part of the fun! The Isumi Railway is often compared to Moomin Valley in Japan. The comparison originates from the Moomin Train (ムーミン列車, mumin ressha) which operated on the line until March 2019. Apparently at the time there was a Snufkin Lake, and statues of popular characters such as the Moomins, Little My, and Snufkin, in addition to the Moomin-themed trains. There's no doubt that the lush scenery was a good match for the world of the Moomins as well. The Best Spots to Photograph the Kominato Railway Photo：Kominato Railway's Satoyama Romantic Train Kominato Railway's Satoyama Romantic Train (里山トロッコ, satoyama torokko) is hugely popular with tourists. Rail enthusiasts gather from across Japan to get a photo of the sightseeing train against the backdrop of the rapeseed blossom fields. A particularly notable photo spot is the Ishigami Rapeseed Blossom Field (石神菜の花畑, ishigami nanohana-batake), which allows visitors to take some really incredible photos. ■ Ishigami Rapeseed Blossom Field | Chiba, Ichihara, Ishigami, 225 If you get off part way along the Kominato Railway, you'll find Yorokeikoku Station (養老渓谷駅, yoro keikoku eki), where there is a footbath that is available free of charge when using the railroad. It's a 15-minute walk from the station. People visiting by car can use the parking lot by the road—from which there are several superb photo spots within a few minutes' walk—and wait for the sightseeing train. Incredibly, the sightseeing train actually slows down as it passes through the middle of the rapeseed blossom fields—a show of consideration for railway enthusiasts. [Video] 2:18 - The Sightseeing Train Passing Through Rapeseed Blossom Fields Additionally, within the wooden station building of Tsukizaki Station (月崎駅, tsukizaki-eki) is Mori Radio Station (森ラジオステーション, mori rajio suteshon), a popular tourist attraction also known as "Mori Radio" (森ラジオ, mori rajio). The building, which was originally a filling station for railroad maintenance workers of the Kominato Railway, was exhibited as an art installation covered with moss and wildflowers during the Naka-boso International Art Festival's (中房総国際芸術祭, nakaboso kokusai geijutusai) Ichihara Art x Mix (いちはらアートxミックス, ichihara ato x mikkusu) event in 2014. Its atmospheric appearance makes it a popular spot for tourists even now. [Video] 2:53 - Mori Radio Station, Covered in Moss and Wild Grasses Another recommended stop on the Kominato Railway is Itabu Station (飯給駅, itabu-eki). Known as the "world's largest toilet," the spot is quite popular during the daytime. It's a single toilet, surrounded by glass walls that was created as an art installation. At night, the station is popular as a place to take photos of the illuminated cherry blossoms along with the trains. Sightseeing Along the Kominato and Isumi Railways While the cherry blossoms and rapeseed are of course beautiful, they're best enjoyed between visits to various tourist attractions along the railway lines. Below is a list of several tourist attractions you can consider visiting along the railways. Yoro Valley (Yorokeikoku Station) Yoro Valley (Yoro Gorge) is one of the most famous hot spring areas in Chiba Prefecture, and is located roughly in the middle of the Boso Peninsula. The valley is home to numerous waterfalls with popular hiking courses and during the fall, it's a great place to enjoy the autumn leaves. Kasamori Temple (Kazusa-Ushiku Station) This temple sits atop a large boulder and features a unique architectural style. Founded in 784 AD, the temple has been dubbed the "Temple of Prayer and Fragrance" thanks to the lovely scent of the flowers that cover the temple grounds. Hours: April - September: 8:00 am - 4:30 pm, October - March: 8:00 am - 4:00 pm Admission Fee: Adults: 300 yen, Children: 100 yen Otaki Castle (Otaki Station) Otaki Castle is said to have been built in 1521 by Honda Tadakatsu, one of the "Four Heavenly Kings of the Tokugawa." Although the castle was demolished in 1871, the ruins of the castle were designated as a historical site in 1966 and the castle tower was rebuilt in 1975. Hours: 9:00 am - 4:00 pm Closures: Irregular (Please check the official website) Admission Fee: Adults: 200 yen, High school and university students: 100yen, Elementary and middle school students, seniors (65+), and those with disabilities: Free There are many other spots along the railway lines to check out, so if you see something that looks interesting, don't be afraid to hop off the train and explore! Summary of the Kominata and Isumi Railways in Spring The sight of trains reflected in rice paddys and the spring rapeseed and cherry blossoms featured in the video are enough to capture anyone's heart, railway fan or not. There are plenty of wonderful hotels and ryokan (Japanese style inns) in the surrounding area. Even if you usually travel by car, consider booking a trip across the Boso peninsula by train! Take in the fresh spring air and relaxing scenery from the window of your carriage.

Azaleas at Nagushiyama Park, Sasebo: Video Introduction This video, titled "A Carpet of Azaleas at Nagushiyama Park" (長串山公園のツツジの絨毯) was uploaded by "NAGASAKISHIMBUNSHA." It's a drone video of 100,000 azaleas blooming at Nagushiyama Park overlooking the sea. The pink and red azaleas are in full bloom during spring. Take your time and enjoy the breathtaking beauty of these flowers! This article will provide basic information on Nagushiyama Park, as well as information on sightseeing in Sasebo and its highlights. Read on to learn more. An Introduction to Sasebo, Nagasaki Sasebo, located in northern Nagasaki, is the second largest city in Nagasaki, second only to Nagasaki City, and is a 2-3-hour plane ride south from Tokyo. It's a port city known for its famous Sasebo Burgers which are handmade and made to order, as well as various attractions, such as Huis Ten Bosch, the largest theme park in Japan, and other places like the Kujukushima Zoo & Botanical Gardens, etc. Being located far south of Tokyo, the weather is on average slightly warmer than Tokyo. Nagasaki Prefecture also has many tourist attractions to explore outside of Sasebo. Some things to do in Nagasaki include: ・Nagasaki Peace Park ・Nagasaki Atomic Bomb Museum ・Hashima Island (Gunkanjima) ・Nagasaki Shinchi Chinatown If you're traveling to Nagasaki and looking for things to do, Sasebo is definitely worth a trip and you could easily spend more than a day exploring the area. Sasebo is located around 2 hours north of Nagasaki City via train. Features of Nagushiyama Park in Sasebo, Nagasaki Photo：Azaleas at Nagushiyama Park, Saikai National Park, Sasebo, Nagasaki Nagushiyama Park is located near the summit of the 234-meter-tall Mt. Nagushiyama in Sasebo, Nagasaki, in Japan's Kyushu region. The azaleas, which now number approximately 100,000, were first planted by local residents in 1969. In the language of flowers, azaleas have the meanings "first love," "the joy of love," and "passion. It's no exaggeration to say that the warm passion of the local people has created the spectacular scenery we see today. There are many azalea viewing spots across Japan, but only here in Nagushiyama Park can you enjoy a view of the sea beyond the brilliantly blooming azaleas. From here, visitors to the park can enjoy a panoramic view of the northern Kujuku Islands and Hirado Island in the sea. [Video] 0:50 - The Southern Slope of the Park Overlooking the Sea Nagushiyama Park also has a campground, a 100-meter-long roller slide, and playground equipment for kids to enjoy. You can experience an entire day of fun-filled activities with your family or friends while viewing the azaleas and the blue sea. Dogs are also permitted in the park, so if you're traveling with your best friend, you'll have nothing to worry about. What Do Azaleas Bloom at Nagushiyama Park? Photo：Azaleas at Nagushiyama Park, Saikai National Park, Sasebo, Nagasaki The best time to view azaleas at Nagushiyama Park varies slightly depending on the variety of azalea. Kurume azaleas bloom from mid to late April, while Hirado azaleas bloom from late April to early May. Although there are slight variations, it's recommended to visit the garden from early April, when the azaleas start to bloom, to early May, when the azaleas are in full bloom. [Video] 1:12 - Hirado and Kurume Azaleas in Full Bloom According to information from the Visitor Center, the schedule for the Azalea Festival in 2023 is as follows: The schedule of the "Chokushiyama Azalea Festival" in 2024 is as follows. Chokushiyama Azalea Festival in 2024 Period: April 3 - April 30 Hours: 9:00 - 17:00 Admission (during the azalea festival period): 250 yen per person (junior high school students and older) Please note that the Visitor Center is usually closed on Thursdays. For information on blooming and events, please visit the official website. The annual Azalea Festival is quite popular and is expected to be crowded on weekends. It's recommended that visitors look up information on sightseeing and traffic congestion in the area before visiting. Tourist Attractions in Sasebo in Spring Photo：Flower fields at Huis Ten Bosch Below is a list of popular tourist attractions during spring in Sasebo, Nagasaki. Consider adding them to your itinerary! ●Huis Ten Bosch Enjoy the Flower Festival and delicious food at the largest theme park in Japan! ●Kujukushima Pearl Sea Resort A marine resort facility home to Kujukushima Aquarium Umi Kirara, which introduces the marine life of the Kujuku Islands, and sunset cruises on large pirate ships. ●Tenkaiho Observatory This observatory offers a 180-degree panoramic view of the Kujuku Islands, and is the most popular viewing platform in Sasebo. ●Miyajidake Shrine Miyajidake Shrine is a beautiful shrine with a brightly painted vermilion building that is said to bring good fortune, luck, prosperous business, and traffic safety. Enjoy spring in Sasebo with Nagushiyama Park and a host of tourist attractions! Summary of Spring Sightseeing in Sasebo and Azaleas at Nagushiyama Park In the video, you can see azaleas in full bloom overlooking the sea. Nagushiyama Park offers spectacular spring views, that can't be found anywhere else in Japan. The 100,000 azaleas, which were planted by the local people, represent the spirit of Japanese hospitality. We recommend staying at a hotel in the area and taking your time to explore the rich nature and international character of Sasebo in spring. You're sure to make some awesome memories here! ◆Nagushiyama Park, Saikai National Park◆ [Address] 〒859-6206 174-12 Shikamachi-cho Nagushi, Sasebo, Nagasaki pref. [Hours] 9:00〜18:00 (Admission until 17:00) [Admission] Free ※But charged during the Azalea Festival Adults (junior high school students and older): 250 yen per person [Parking] Available [Access] From Sasebo Station, take a bus bound for Hirado, change to a bus bound for Kusudomari at Sasa Bus Center, get off at Nagushiyama Azalea Park Entrance, and walk about 15 minutes. [TripAdvisor] Nagushiyama Park

Video introduction to the oldest museum in Japan, Tokyo National Museum, Taito-ku, Tokyo This video, titled "[Sword World] "Tokyo National Museum - A Place Full of Swords｜Sword Exhibits: Japanese Swords at a Museum｜YouTube Video" (【刀剣ワールド】「東京国立博物館」刀剣に会える場所｜刀剣展示 博物館の日本刀 YouTube動画), was uploaded by "[Touken World] Japanese Swords - YouTube Video" (【刀剣ワールド】刀剣・日本刀・刀・剣 - YouTube動画). The Tokyo National Museum, introduced in the video, is located in Taito, Tokyo, in Japan's Kanto region, and was founded in 1872, making it the oldest museum in Japan. The Tokyo National Museum consists of six exhibition halls and archives, and is dedicated to the collection, storage, exhibition, research, and dissemination of Cultural Properties from Japan and the East. The museum has more than 117,000 items in its collection, the largest number of National Treasures and Important Cultural Properties of any museum in Japan. This article introduces the Tokyo National Museum alongside the video. Check Out the Swords on Display on the First Floor of the Tokyo National Museum's Main Gallery Photo：A sword on display at the Tokyo National Museum On the first floor of the Tokyo National Museum's Main Gallery (Japanese Gallery), the exhibits are divided by field, such as sculpture, ceramics, and swords. The highlight of the museum is the swords in Room 13 on the first floor. Many of Japan's most famous swords are housed here. Japanese swords are said to have originated in the Kofun Period (around 350-700 B.C.), when they were used for rituals. With the rise of the samurai in the mid-Heian Period, they took on the form we know today. In the sword display area, the legendary Mikazuki (三日月, Crescent Moon), one of the Tenka Goken ("Five Greatest Swords Under Heaven"), is displayed in the museum's collection. The swords on display at the Tokyo National Museum can be seen from 1:20 in the video. Fascinating Attractions at the Main Gallery of the Tokyo National Museum Photo：The Tokyo National Museum The Main Gallery of the Tokyo National Museum has a lot more to see than just swords! The marble staircase at the entrance to the Main Gallery of the Tokyo National Museum is a sight to behold. The marble staircase has been used for filming TV dramas and pre-wedding photos. Also, on display on the second floor of the Main Gallery are exhibits that follow the trends of Japanese art throughout the ages, from the Jomon Period (14,000 BC to around 400 BC) to the Edo Period (1603-1868 AD). If you're a first-time visitor, be sure to check out the second floor first and learn about the history of Japan! There is also a museum store on the first floor, selling around 4,500 kinds of stationery, picture postcards, exhibition catalogs, books, and other original museum goods. The exhibits are changed frequently. Please check the official website for information on current exhibits and schedules. Visit the Japanese Archaeology Gallery With the Main Gallery! Photo：Heiseikan at the Tokyo National Museum The Heiseikan is the best place to visit along with the Main Gallery of the Tokyo National Museum. In the archaeological exhibition room on the first floor, archaeological artifacts from the Stone Age to the modern era are on display. You're sure to find something interesting! On the second floor, there is a special exhibition room where special exhibitions are held. The exhibits change every few months and include a wide variety of items, such as bird and animal caricatures and Buddhist statues. Be sure to check these out along with the permanent exhibits. Please note that the special exhibitions are charged separately from the admission fee. The Tokyo National Museum also has the Hyokeikan, the Toyokan (Asian Gallery), the Teahouse, the Gallery of Horyuji Treasures, and the Kuroda Memorial Hall, which reopened in January 2015 and displays the works of Kuroda Seiki. It is difficult to visit all of the facilities in one day, so be sure to plan your schedule flexibly. Summary of the Tokyo National Museum The Tokyo National Museum is an important museum for the history of Japan. The swords in the Main Gallery, which can be seen throughout the video, are a must-see. The swords are regarded by the world as works of art. Moreover, they have become even more popular due to the PC game "Touken Ranbu." The Tokyo National Museum is located in Ueno Onshi Park, and has convenient transportation access. Currently, tickets can only be purchased by advanced reservation. In order to make the museum more accessible, the admission fee was revised in April 2020. Please check the official website for information on hours, admission fees, exhibits, events, and special exhibits. Stop by the Tokyo National Museum and explore the history of Japan! You'll even be welcomed by the official Tokyo National Museum characters, Tohaku-kun and Yurinoki-chan. Don't forget to watch the video as well if you still haven't yet. It's full of awesome footage of the Tokyo National Museum! 【Official Website】The Tokyo National Museum https://www.tnm.jp/?lang=en 【TripAdvisor】The Tokyo National Museum https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g14134278-d320638-Reviews-Tokyo_National_Museum-Uenokoen_Taito_Tokyo_Tokyo_Prefecture_Kanto.html

Introducing Kobe Animal Kingdom, a Facility Where You Can Interact With Cute Animals up Close This video, titled "Kobe Animal Kingdom" (神戸どうぶつ王国), was uploaded by "Kobe Animal Kingdom" (神戸どうぶつ王国 Kobe Animal Kingdom). Kobe Animal Kingdom, located on Port Island, an artificial island in Kobe, Hyogo, in Japan's Kansai region, is a facility with a theme of "symbiosis between flowers, animals, and people." The 25,000-square-meter site is filled with 10,000 plants and flowers of around 1,000 different species, as well as 600 animals of approximately 110 different species. The biggest attraction of Kobe Animal Kingdom is that many of the animals in the park are free-range, so visitors can enjoy interacting with cute animals up close. There are also many shows, performances, and attractions that help visitors feel closer to the animals. The official video of Kobe Animal Kingdom, introduced here, is a short, two-minute video that introduces all the attractions of the facility. We hope you enjoy it! Meet Cute Animals at an Indoor Park Photo：Parakeets at Kobe Animal Kingdom Kobe Animal Kingdom is divided into two areas: the Inside Park and the Outside Park. The Inside Park, shown at 0:19 in the video, is an all-weather facility that allows visitors to walk around in the rain without getting wet. At "Contact Animals," visitors can interact with small animals, such as rabbits, dogs, cats, macaws, parrots, and more. There are also wild cats and sand cats on exhibit. At "Tropical Forest," animals living in the tropics spend their free time in their natural habitat. Here, visitors can interact with capybaras, tropical birds, sloths, etc. In addition, at "Wind Stadium," where bird shows are held, visitors can take pictures with owls. "Water Lilies" is a huge pool with approximately 100 species of water lilies in bloom and small tropical fish that can be fed. A Full-Fledged Zoo in an Indoor Park Photo：A shoebill at Kobe Animal Kingdom Kobe Animal Kingdom has a large indoor area with a full-fledged zoo inside the indoor park. Kobe Animal Kingdom is divided into the various regions found around the world, including Asian Forest, African Wetlands, Tropical Wetlands, Tropical Forest, and Rocky Valley, and is home to a wide variety of animals, including reptiles, hippopotamuses, wolves, bears, red pandas, manuls, ring-tailed lemurs, lesser anteaters, and Tam Tam, a pygmy hippopotamus that moved in in July 2020 from NIFREL in Suita, Osaka. There is also an ecological garden for the "shoebill," an unmoving pelican that lives in Africa. This opened in April 2021, and the facility currently trying to breed them for the first time in Japan. In addition, you can have lunch at a location popular on social media for its panorama of flowers hanging from the ceiling of the restaurant and cafe. AlpaCafé also sells original animal-themed food, such as Shoebill Coffee. There is also a souvenir store, selling many goods featuring the park's animals. These goods can also be purchased at the official online store. Experience Kobe Animal Kingdom's Outside Park Photo：A red kangaroo at Kobe Animal Kingdom Kobe Animal Kingdom also has a great outside park. The Outside Park, which can be seen from 1:35, is an open area where visitors can see kangaroos, alpacas, and giant tortoises. You can also ride camels and horses, and dog shows are held daily. At Aqua Valley, visitors can meet cute penguins and seals. The admission fee to Kobe Animal Kingdom is 1,800 yen for adults (junior high school students and older). You can get a discount on the admission fee by purchasing advance tickets or by using the hotel's accommodation package plan. Kobe Animal Kingdom is easily accessible from Kobe Airport and Sannomiya Station. There is also a large parking lot, so you can also go by car. ※On weekends and holidays, the park can get crowded, so it's best to use public transportation. Interact With Cute Animals! Summary of Kobe Animal Kingdom Kobe Animal Kingdom is a place where flowers, animals, and people come into contact with each other. Kobe Animal Kingdom is constantly changing, with new areas popping up constantly. The park is currently implementing initiatives for "biodiversity conservation" and "environmental conservation" so that the animals can live comfortably. They also conduct crowd-funding to further develop their efforts. If you're looking to experience the animals of the world, consider checking out Kobe Animal Kingdom! ◆Kobe Animal Kingdom Facility Information◆ 【Address】7 Chome-1-9 Minatojima Minamimachi, Chuo Ward, Kobe, Hyogo 650-0047 【Telephone】+81 078-302-8899 【Hours】Please inquire directly as hours can vary by season. 【Closures】Closed every Thursday (※Excluding national holidays) 【Admission Fee】 Adults (junior high and older): ¥1,800 Elementary Schoolers: 1,000 Children (ages 4 & 5): ¥300 Seniors (65 and older): ¥1,300 【Official Website】Kobe Animal Kingdom https://en.kobe-oukoku.com/ 【Trip Advisor】Kobe Animal Kingdom https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g298562-d1493150-Reviews-Kobe_Animal_Kingdom-Kobe_Hyogo_Prefecture_Kinki.html

Introducing a Video on Japanese Yokai This video, titled "Yokai - The Monsters That Ward off Plagues With the Wishes of the People" (妖怪 〜疫病退散 ! 人々の願いを込めて〜), was uploaded by "Japan Video Topics - Japanese" (Japan Video Topics - 日本語). In Japan, there is a culture of yokai, Japanese folklore which believes in the existence of numerous supernatural monsters and ghosts. The yokai introduced from 0:19 are the ones that most Japanese people are familiar with. The first one is the Tengu. Tengu, who roam the mountains, are probably the most well-known yokai. Next, there's Hitotsume kozo, a monster that appears out of thin air to scare and play with people. The third yokai is Zashiki warashi, a monster that appears in the form of a child and is known as a yokai that brings prosperity to one's home. Yokai Depicted in the Past and Present Photo：An image of yokai The International Research Center for Japanese Studies has been conducting research on yokai, and one of the documents, the Hyakki Yagyo Emaki, depicts many yokai and appeared in the 16th century. As time passed, these once feared monsters became a part of Japanese people's daily life. You can see the Hyakki Yagyo Emaki at 0:48 in the video. Even today, yokai are seen in a number of different works. Gegege no Kitaro, which can be seen from 1:04 in the video, is a famous manga featuring yokai, and has also been made into an anime. In addition, there are many other popular works in which yokai appear, such as "Natsume's Book of Friends." Fukusaki, Hyogo - Revitalizing a Town Through Yokai Photo：A statue of a kappa emerging from the water, Fukusaki, Fukushima In Fukusaki, Hyogo, the birthplace of the folklorist Kunio Yanagita, author of "Yokai Story" (妖怪談義), the town is being revitalized with the help of yokai. When a statue of a kappa jumping out of a pond was installed, it attracted attention from all across Japan. On the benches of the town, visitors will find fascinating yokai sculptures, including kappa, oni, and many others. There are also some unusual and humorous yokai sculptures on display, such as a yokai relaxing on a convenience store bench, an oni taking a selfie with a smartphone, and a tengu working in a suit. Since then, the town has held the "National Yokai Modeling Contest" and sold plastic models of kappa and other yokai, leading to an increase in the number of tourists. The Many Yokai Towns of Japan Fukusai is not the only town in Japan with yokai. The town of Yamashiro in Tokushima Prefecture is known as Oboke Yokai Village, where yokai folklore is still passed down to this day. In addition, yokai have appeared in various places such as Mizuki Shigeru Road in Sakaiminato, Yokai Street in Kyoto, and in Yokaichi , Shiga, yokai are being used to revitalize towns. Amabie - A Yokai as a Symbol to Ward off Plagues Photo：An Amabie Amabie, introduced from 2:30 in the video, are yokai that are said to have appeared in the sea in Higo Province, present-day Kumamoto Prefecture, during the Edo Period (1603-1868 AD) in Japan. They are said to have predicted good harvests and warded off epidemics, saying, "If an epidemic should appear, show the people my image, that their plagues shall spread unto me," before disappearing into the sea. Amidst the difficult situation caused by the spread of the novel coronavirus, information about Amabie began to spread. The cute Amabie, a half-human, half-fish, but not in a ghost story kind of way, triggered the Amabie boom. The boom, known as the "Amabie Festival," is just as Amabie once said it would be, and people have been posting pictures and illustrations of Amabie on social networking sites. Using the hashtag "#アマビエチャレンジ" (#AmabieChallenge) it has become an internet phenomenon. Many amabie goods have also appeared, including figurines, Japanese sweets, cafe items, origami, and even coloring books. The mascot craze has become so popular that it has even made the news outside of Japan. Summary of Japan's Yokai Culture With the Amabie boom, shrines around Japan, including Gokoku Shrine in Himeji, began to hand out charms depicting Amabie to worshippers. In addition to Amabie, there are also Amabiko and Arie, yokai that are very similar to Amabie. In the past, when there was an epidemic of cholera in the late Edo Period, Amabie was also popular as a way to ward off cholera. Japan's yokai culture has been around for hundreds of years. From the distant past to the present, they continue to be a part of Japanese people's lives.

Jiko-in, Isuien Garden, and Sainan-in - Enjoy Beautiful Gardens in Nara Prefecture This video, titled "[4K] Japanese Gardens of NARA BEST 3" ([4K] Japanese Garden of NARA BEST 3　日本庭園・奈良 ベスト３), was uploaded by "Yurara Sarara." It introduces the three major gardens of Nara Prefecture in beautiful 4K. Nara, the ancient capital with 1,300 years of history, is dotted with many tourist attractions, including Nara Park where Todaiji Temple is located. The video focuses on Japanese gardens in Nara. This article provides tourist information on the highlights for Jiko-in, Isuien Garden, and Sainan-in, which will be introduced in the video, as well as transportation access. First, please enjoy the beautiful, well-kept Japanese gardens in the video. Jiko-in, One of the Three Major Gardens of Nara Photo：The Japanese garden at Jiko-in, Nara Prefecture Jiko-in, introduced from 0:57 in the video, is a temple of the Daitokuji school of the Rinzai sect of Zen Buddhism. Jiko-in's Japanese garden is designated as a National Historic Site and a Place of Scenic Beauty. The Japanese garden at Jiko-in is characterized by the fact that the entire temple grounds are designed as a single tea ceremony hall. Not only the temple grounds, but also the surrounding scenery is incorporated into the garden as borrowed scenery. The building you can see from 2:40 in the video is a rustic thatched-roof study, designated as an Important Cultural Property. The Japanese garden can be enjoyed from the tatami room, allowing visitors to sit quietly on the tatami mats and enjoy the beautiful garden. Ibarakimon Gate in the precincts of the temple is another highlight of the temple. Isuien Garden, One of the Three Major Gardens of Nara Photo：Isuien Garden, Nara Prefecture Isuien Garden, introduced at 3:27 in the video, is located in the center of Nara City and is a garden with a circular path around a pond that was created to capture the natural landscape of the city. This Japanese garden, located in a corner of the Nara Park area, consists of the Front Garden created in the early Edo Period (around 1603-1700 AD), and the Back Garden, built in the Meiji Period (1868-1912). In the Front Garden, there's the Sanshutei Tea House which was relocated by Kiyosumi Dousei, a government purveyor, as a villa for enjoying tea. The Sanshutei Tea House can be used as a cafe for delicious lunches, or for sampling Japanese sweets and green tea while admiring the Japanese garden. The Back Garden is a pond garden with a huge artificial mountain created by industrialist Tojiro Seki. Here, there is a teahouse called "Hyoshintei," a shoin-style teahouse built in the Meiji Period. At Isuien Garden, visitors can enjoy the vivid colors of the four seasons, with cherry blossoms, azaleas, wisteria, wisteria, Japanese clover, and green maples. It is also known for its beautiful autumn foliage. Also located on the grounds of Isuien Garden is the Neiraku Art Museum. The museum's collection includes a painting by Tanomura Chikuden, which is an Important Cultural Property, and is on special display in the spring. Access to Isuien Garden is a 15-minute walk or 7-minute bus ride from Kintetsu Nara Station. An entrance fee, including admission to the Neiraku Art Museum, is also required. Next to Isuien is Yoshikien Garden, another beautiful Japanese garden. Sainan-in Temple Photo：Sainan-in Temple, Nara Prefecture Sainan-in, introduced at 6:06 in the video, is the Sainan-in Garden of a small Zen temple built to commemorate the death of a high priest of Taima-dera Temple. The Japanese garden is the 21st sacred site of the Kansai Flower Temples, and is especially famous for its rhododendron and peonies. In addition, many people visit this temple as the 8th of the eighteen Buddhist monasteries in the Kinki region. Sainan-in also has a garden featuring a circular path around a pond, and includes the main hall and the horizontally built west wing of the temple. From the viewing platform, visitors can enjoy a view of the west and east wings of the temple. There is also a suikinkutsu in the garden, and its crystal-clear sound will calm your mind. Access to Sainan-in Temple is a 15-minute walk from Tomadera Station on the Kintetsu and Minami-Osaka lines. Paid parking is also available. An entrance fee is charged to visit the temple's traditional Japanese garden. Guests can also enjoy Buddhist vegetarian cuisine or stay overnight in a lodgings. (Reservations only). Summary of Nara's Three Major Gardens, Jiko-in, Isuien Garden, and Sainan-in This video, titled "[4K] Japanese Gardens of NARA BEST 3" introduces beautiful Japanese gardens in Nara Prefecture. Be sure to watch the video to experience the tranquil beauty of the changing of Japan's seasons. 【Official Website】Jiko-in http://www1.kcn.ne.jp/~jikoin/English-top.html 【Official Website】Isuien https://isuien.or.jp/en/index.html 【Official Website】Sainan-in https://sainanin.com/e

Tsubosakadera Temple's 'Great Cherry Blossom Buddha': Video Introduction This video, titled "[Cherry Blossoms via Drone in 4K] The Great Cherry Blossom Buddha at Tsubosakadera Temple, Nara (Long Ver. )｜Cherry Blossom Drone Project" ([桜ドローン撮影4K] 奈良県壺阪寺の大仏桜 Tsubosaka-dera Temple, Nara (Long Ver. )｜桜ドローンプロジェクト). was uploaded by "DRONE ENTERTAINMENT - Sakura Drone Project." This video shows beautiful images of the cherry blossoms in full bloom and the Great Buddha at Tsubosakadera Temple taken from the sky during Japan's cherry blossom season. In the video you can see the cherry blossoms from the perspective of the Great Buddha, which can only be achieved with drone photography. The illuminated scenery of the temple grounds at night is different from that of the daytime, and it is a fantastic view. Take your time to watch the beautiful scenery in the video. Nara, Home to Some of the Most Famous Temples in Japan Nara, Japan is home to approximately 1,800 temples, some of which, such as Todaiji Temple, the largest temple in Nara, are the most famous in Japan. It's even home to the Nanto Shichi Daiji (Seven Great Temples of Nara), or the Seven Great Temples of the Southern Capital. The Seven Great Temples of Nara are: Daianji Temple, Gangoji Temple, Horyuji Temple, Kofukuji Temple, Saidaiji Temple, Todaiji Temple, and Yakushiji Temple. The vast number of temples and other tourist attractions, coupled with the long history of Nara, make it a destination in Japan that's definitely worth visiting. What is Tsubosakadera Temple? Photo：The Buddha at Tsubosakadera Temple, Nara Prefecture Tsubosakadera Temple, famous for the Great Cherry Blossom Buddha, is a Shingon sect temple located in Takatori, Nara, in Japan's Kansai Region. Although it's known by the names "Great Cherry Blossom Buddha" and "Tsubosakadera Temple," its official name is Minami Hokkeji Temple. The temple was founded in 703 by Benki Shonin, a Buddhist priest. The temple's name is said to have originated when Benki Shonin, a monk of Gankoji Temple who was undergoing ascetic training, enshrined the Goddess of Kannon in a crystal vase in a hermitage on a hill. The main deity of the temple is the eleven-faced, thousand-armed Kannon (Avalokitesvara), and since it is believed to be protect against eye diseases, visitors from all over Japan come to Tsubosakadera Temple to pray for protection. The temple is also famous for its hina dolls, which are arranged in the shape of a mandala, a sacred symbol in Buddhism. Approximately 3,000 dolls are displayed around the eleven-faced thousand-armed Kannon. In the inner sanctuary of Tsubosakadera Temple, there is also a stone structure called Go-Hyakku Rakan (Five Hundred Arhats) featuring many Buddhist statues. Some things that make the temple unique are its solar power generation system, which is not something you'd find at other temples in Japan, as well as several large Budda statues on the temple grounds that were carved in, and imported from, India. When do the Cherry Blossoms Bloom at Tsubosakadera Temple? Photo：The Great Cherry Blossom Buddha at Tsubosakadera Temple, Nara Prefecture Tsubosakadera Temple is one of the most famous cherry blossom viewing spots in Japan, and is known for its giant Buddha statue surrounded by cherry blossoms. Among the large stone Buddha statues, the most eye-catching is the Tsubosaka Daibutsu (Great Buddha of Tsubosakadera), located in the center of the temple. The statue stands a staggering 10 meters (~33 feet) tall atop a 5-meter-tall platform. During the cherry blossom season, many people come to visit the temple and take Instagram photos with the cherry blossoms and the Buddha. [Video] 1:36 - The Great Buddha Surrounded by Cherry Blossoms Cherry blossoms at Tsubosaka-ji usually bloom from late March to early April; in 2024, the expected bloom date in Nara Prefecture is around March 25 and the expected full bloom date is April 1, a little earlier than usual. According to the SNS of Tsubosaka-ji Temple, in 2023, the trees were almost in full bloom on March 25. Please check back around that time before heading out. Light-up viewing is scheduled from March 23 to April 3, 2024 (tentative), so you can enjoy the pagodas and the Great Buddha on the temple grounds, as well as the illuminated cherry blossoms. [Video] 3:35 - Tsubosakadera Temple Illuminated at Night Tourist Attractions Near Tsubosakadera Temple Photo：Nara Park, Nara Prefecture There are various tourist attractions and sightseeing spots near Tsubosakadera Temple. You can also visit places where you can learn about Japanese history, such as the ruins of Takatori Castle, which is designated as a National Historic site, and the Kitora Tomb (Kitora Burial Mound). For lunch, we recommend Hana Yamato (花大和), a tea house serving Yakuzen cuisine (medicinal, herbal cuisine based on traditional Chinese medicine), or Oku Asuka Sarara (奥明日香さらら), where you can enjoy local cuisine from Nara. Between sightseeing, you can also take a break at Nokonoko Café (のこのこカフェ). If you're looking to visit major tourist attractions in Nara Prefecture, such as Mt. Yoshino and Nara Park, from Tsubosakadera Temple, we recommend staying overnight and taking your time to enjoy Nara. Summary of the Great Cherry Blossom Buddha at Tsubosakadera Temple Did you enjoy the beautiful views of cherry blossoms at and the Great Buddha at Tsubosakadera Temple in spring? Known for its Great Cherry Blossom Buddha, Tsubosakadera Temple in Nara Prefecture attracts many tourists from all over Japan for hanami (cherry blossom viewing), as well as those who visit the temple on their pilgrimage to the 33 sacred sites in the western part of Japan. You can also pick up original souvenirs at the temple that you won't find anywhere else, such as the shuin stamp book embroidered with the Great Buddha and cherry blossoms. Tsubosakadera Temple is easily accessible from Nara City, and outside of special monthly events, requires no reservations, making it a great place to visit during any trip to Nara. If you're looking for things to do in Nara, be sure to check it out! ◆Tsubosakadera Temple◆ 【Address】3 Tsubosaka, Takatori-cho, Takaichi-gun, Nara 635-0102, Japan 【Access】 By Car: Drive southeast from the Katsuragi IC on Minami Hanna Road (approx. 30 min. by car) By train: From Kintetsu Osaka Abenobashi, get off at Tsubosaka-yama bound for Yoshino (about 40 minutes via express train), then take a bus or cab. 【Telephone】0744-52-2016 【Hours】8:30 a.m. - 3:00 pm 【Admission Fee】Adults (18 years and older) 600 yen, children 100 yen, young children (5 years and younger) free of charge (as of 2/2/2023). 300 yen for the disabled upon presentation of a disability certificate. 【Parking】Available (Please check the official website for details.) 【TripAdvisor】Tsubosakadera Temple

Introducing Hanitsu Shrine in the Aizu region of Fukushima Prefecture! This video, titled "Hanitsu Jinja – Fukushima – Hanitsu Shrine 8K" (Hanitsu Jinja - Fukushima - 土津神社 - 8K), was uploaded by "TokyoStreetView - Japan The Beautiful." It introduces Hanitsu Shrine in Aizuwakamatsu, Fukushima, in Japan's Kyushu Region. In the video, you can see the dignified appearance of the mysterious pure white torii gate as it stands in the snowy landscape. Hanitsu Shrine is not only famous for its snowy scenery during winter, but also for its beautiful autumn leaves in the fall. During the autumn foliage season from late October to late November, the shrine is illuminated at night and an autumn leaf festival is held. During the festival, dumpling shops and other stalls are set up in the precincts of the shrine. The fantastic scenery of the colorful maple leaves and other foliage is fantastic! Hanitsu Shrine is also known for its flowers. In spring, cherry trees donated by the town of Takato in Shinshu, and someiyoshino cherries can be seen in full bloom. From late April to early May, when the cherry blossoms are at their best, the shrine is crowded with people enjoying cherry blossom viewing. The cherry blossoms in spring, the colored leaves in autumn, and the pure white torii gate are all beautiful sights throughout the year, making Hanitsu Shrine an Instagrammable destination for many tourists. The History of Hanitsu Shrine and Its Deities Photo：Spring at Hanitsu Shrine, Inowashira, Fukushima Hanitsu Shrine is a historic shrine in the Aizu region of Fukushima Prefecture. The shrine was founded in 1675. When the Aizu clan was defeated in the Boshin War, Hanitsu Shrine was set on fire at the order of Takahashi Gondayu, the lord of Inawashiro Castle, and it burned down, but it was later rebuilt. Hoshina Masayuki, the first lord of the Aizu domain, is enshrined as the deity of Hanitsu Shrine. Hoshina Masayuki is known as the kami of children's success and is believed to be blessed with good fortune, good harvest, and traffic safety. About 500 meters north of the main shrine, there is an inner shrine where the grave of Hoshina Masayuki is located. This tomb has been designated as a historic site by the government of Japan. In addition, the sword "Mei Yoshifusa" owned by Hanitsu Shrine is designated as an Important Cultural Property. There are also silk paintings and monuments, the inner sanctuary, swords and more that have been designated as Cultural Properties of Fukushima Prefecture. In the precincts of Hanitsu Shrine, visitors can buy good luck charms, Japanese mythical fortunes, Akabeko talismans, and shuin stamps, and from 0:50 in the video, you can see the fortunes tied up in the precincts. Summary of Hanitsu Shrine in the Aizu region of Fukushima Prefecture Photo：Autumn at Hanitsu Shrine, Inowashira, Fukushima This article introduced Hanitsu Shrine located in Inawashiro in the Aizu region of Fukushima Prefecture. In the video, you can see the beautiful shrine grounds covered with snow, giving off a tranquil and spiritual atmosphere. The video also conveys the beauty of the uniquely Japanese wabi sabi landscape. The shrine in winter, as shown in the video, is wonderful, but the illuminated autumn foliage and spring cherry blossoms are also a must-see. If you're interested in Hanitsu Shrine, which is also a popular power spot, be sure to check it out! ◆Hanitsu Shrine – Access and General Information◆ 【Address】Aza Mineyama 1, Inawashiro-machi, Yama-gun, Fukushima Pref. 【Hours】：Mon. – Sun. 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM 【Telephone】0242-62-2160 【Access】10 minutes by taxi from Inawashiro Station on the JR Banetsu West Line Access by car is a 10-minute drive from the Ban-Etsu Expressway's Inawashiro Bandai Kogen IC towards the Inawashiro Ski Resort. 【Parking】There is a free parking lot in the south of the precincts 【Fees (Offerings)】Formal prayers from 5,000 yen, individual prayers from 5,000 yen, shuin stamps from 300 yen 【Pets】Dogs and other pets are allowed at the shrine, but please be aware that they are not allowed to "mark their territory" or disturb worshippers to the shrine. 【TripAdvisor】Hanitsu Shrine https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g1120997-d5970665-Reviews-Hanitsu_Shrine-Inawashiro_machi_Yama_gun_Fukushima_Prefecture_Tohoku.html

A Video on the "Kissing Tunnel" of Wajima, Ishikawa! This video, titled "[4K] Find Love at the "Kissing Tunnel," a Sacred Place for Lovers: Wajima City, Ishikawa Prefecture｜nippon.com" (【4K】恋人の聖地「せっぷんとんねる」で恋の成就を願う：石川県輪島市| nippon.com), was uploaded by "nippon.com." It introduces the "Kissing Tunnel," a sacred place for lovers in Wajima, Ishikawa. The Kissing Tunnel is a tunnel next to the cave Fuku ga Ana in Wajima, Ishikawa. It is a small hand-dug tunnel located on the Nami-no-Hanamichi promenade on the Sosogi Coast, and is one of the most recommended tourist attractions in Wajima, Ishikawa! Photo：The Kissing Tunnel, Wajima, Ishikawa The Toho movie "Bokyaku no Hanabira" (The Forgotten Flower Petal) released in 1957 was filmed here, and in it the two lovers met at this tunnel at dusk to confirm their love, thus leading to it being called the "Kissing Tunnel" and becoming a popular tourist attraction. In 2011, it was recognized as a "Lover's Sanctuary" by the "Lover's Sanctuary" Selection Committee. It is said that if two people pass through this tunnel (commonly known as the "Happiness Zone") together, their love will be fulfilled. The signboard at the entrance of the Kissing Tunnel can be seen at 0:18 in the video. At the end of the tunnel sits a statue of Acala, the wisdom king of Buddhism, where many ascetic practitioners have prayed for happiness. It is full of chi that is said to grant people's wishes, and Goen no Izumi (御縁之泉, The Spring of Destiny) inside the cave is also known as a power spot. There are also other power spots around the Kissing Tunnel, such as Madoiwa "Window Rock," which offers a spectacular view. The Kissing Tunnel is lit up, and the illumination of the heart mark is very romantic. It's a great place to visit with your significant other. If you take a picture with the illuminated heart mark in the background it'll look great on Instagram as well! Behind the tunnel, there is a mountain road leading up Mt. Iwakura, and "Sentai Jizo," a rock formation that resembles a thousand jizo statues, stands at around 170 meters above sea level. It is said that the Sentai Jizo was carved by a god of nature and is said to bring blessings for children. Mt. Iwakura, a sacred mountain in Okunoto, is home to Iwakura-dera Temple, an ancient sacred site dedicated to Kannon, the Buddhist goddess of compassion. The whole area of Mt. Iwakura, including the tunnel, where the power of the gods and Buddha converge, is a major power spot. At the Kissing Tunnel, visitors can also see the "Nami no Hana" (flowerlike patterns on waves in the Japan Sea), a scenic view of Noto during winter. From mid-November to late February, the tall, rough waves of the Sea of Japan cause the mucus of phytoplankton floating in the seawater to hit the rocks and form white bubbles that contain air. This sea foam is called "Nami no Hana" (lit. "wave flowers") in Japanese. Tourist Attractions Around Wajima, Ishikawa, Where the "Kissing Tunnel" Is Located Photo：Wajima Morning Market The area around Noto, Ishikawa, where the "Kissing Tunnel" is located, is home to many popular tourist attractions. Here, we'll introduce some of them: ・Manura Pocket Park near Mado-iwa (Window Rock) is located on the Sosogi Coast. It offers spectacular views of the cliffs ・Wajima Morning Market is one of the three major morning markets in Japan, along with Katsuura Morning Market in Katsuura, Chiba, and Miyagawa Morning Market in Takayama, Gifu ・Shiroyone Senmaida is one of the Top 100 Terraced Rice Fields of Japan and is designated as a National Cultural Property and a Place of Scenic Beauty ・Noto's Satoyama-Satoumi, a World Agricultural Heritage ・Wajima Kiriko Art Museum - A facility that exhibits the kiriko floats used in the Noto Kiriko Festival, which has been recognized as a Japanese Heritage site ・Tarumi Falls - A waterfall that cascades directly from the mountain to the sea with a drop of approximately 35 meters ・Wajima Kobo Nagaya, a workshop where you can experience making maki-e chopsticks, and the Kuroshima District, an area with beautiful black-tiled roofs registered under Important Preservation Districts for Groups of Traditional Buildings ・Twin Bridge Noto - A cable-stayed bridge connecting the Nakajima and Notojima areas in Nanao, Ishikawa Photo：Notojima and Notojima Bridge, Ishikawa Prefecture ・Notojima Bridge, the longest bridge in Ishikawa Prefecture ・Yase Cliff - A precipitous cliff that was the setting for Seicho Matsumoto's masterpiece "Zero Focus" ・Wakura Onsen - A hot spring with a long history, said to have been in operation for 1,200 years ・Hatago Iwa, which gave birth to the legend of the god of weaving, is one of Noto's representative unusual rock formations ・The Tsukumo Bay Promenade allows visitors to enjoy walking along Tsukumo Bay on the east side of the Noto Peninsula We encourage you to check out these attractions when visiting Noto, Ishikawa. Summary of the "Kissing Tunnel" of Wajima, Ishikawa This article introduced the Kissing Tunnel of Wajima, Ishikawa. To get to the Kissing Tunnel, drive from downtown Wajima to National Route 249 in the direction of Sosogi in about 25 minutes, and there is a parking lot in front of the Shin-Hasenodomon Tunnel (新八世乃洞門トンネル). There are many sacred places like the Kissing Tunnel for love throughout Japan, including Kofuku Station in Hokkaido, "Angel Road" in Kagawa Prefecture, and "Orihime Shrine" in Tochigi Prefecture. Be sure to visit them with your sweetheart or someone you care about! 【TripAdvisor】The Kissing Tunnel https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g1021242-d8051360-Reviews-Seppun_Tunnel-Wajima_Ishikawa_Prefecture_Hokuriku_Chubu.html