The Ashigakubo Icicles: Video Introduction This video, titled "A Spectacular View [Ashigakubo Icicles] Light-up｜A Top 3 Icicle Spot in Chichibu" (絶景「あしがくぼの氷柱」ライトアップ / 秩父三大氷柱2021), was uploaded by "Deep Channel / Shigeo Fukagawa" (Deepちゃんねる / 深川栄生). The Ashigakubo Icicles are generally open to the public from early January to late February in the town of Yokoze in Chichibu, Saitama, in Japan's Kanto Region, and are known as one of the top 3 icicle spots in Chichibu. At night on weekends, the icicles are lit up, attracting many tourists from all over Japan to see the fantastic sight of the icicles changing colors in the darkness. The icicles are just a 10-minute walk from Ashigakubo Station on the Seibu Railway line, making it an easily accessible spot for tourists to stop by. You can even take pictures of the icicles with the Seibu Chichibu Line train running nearby. Enjoy the realistic video of this beautiful icy world, which can only be viewed during the cold winter months in Japan. [Video] 0:51 - The Ashigakubo Icicles and the Nearby Train The Ashigakubo Icicles – How the Must-See Winter Attraction Is Created Photo：The Ashigakubo Icicles, Chichibu, Saitama The Top 3 Icicle Spots of Chichibu, which are normally visible from mid-January to mid-February, are a symbol of winter in Chichibu, a region known for its frigid temperatures. The three icicle spots are the Ashigakubo Icicles, the Misotsuchi Icicles, and the Onouchi Icicles. While the Misotsuchi Icicles are made up of natural icicles, the Onouchi Icicles and Ashigakubo Icicles are both man-made attractions. The magnificent icicles, which make good use of Chichibu's topography, are so impressive that it'is hard to believe that they're man made. The Ashigakubo Icicles are artificially created using sprinklers on the slope of the mountain. The giant field of icicles, standing 30 meters tall and 200 meters wide, covers the entire mountainside and is truly a sight to behold. The project was initiated by local residents of Yokoze and has become a popular tourist attraction since it was opened to the public in 2014. Because the Ashigakubo icicles are man-made rather than natural, it was possible to build a boardwalk where visitors can observe the icicles up close. This allows visitors to walk along the promenade and appreciate the various views of the icicles up close, as they change in height, angle, and color. The beautifully layered icicles are a work of ice art created through the cooperation of nature and man. Highlights & Attractions at the Ashigakubo Icicles Photo：The Ashigakubo Icicle illumination, Chichibu, Saitama The Ashigakubo Icicles are lit up both during the daytime as well as at night, making it a prominent midwinter event for sightseeing in Chichibu. The illumination lasts from sunset to 8 pm on Fridays, Saturdays, Sundays, and national holidays during the event period. Advance web reservations are required to view the illumination on Saturdays, Sundays, and national holidays. The Ashigakubo Icicle illumination slowly changes in color and intensity as it gets darker, adding to the fantastical atmosphere. The romantic view of the beautiful ice world is perfect for dates as well. We recommend enjoying the romantic view of the icicles while walking along the promenade, or from the top of the mountain overlooking the magical field of icicles. Another highlight of the event is the collaboration between the train and the icicles. If you're a photographer, or just looking to get a cool shot for Instagram, you can take an awesome photo of the train as it passes by the picturesque world of ice. [Video] 0:12 - The Ashigakubo Icicles Lit Up [Video] 0:51 - A Collaboration of the Train and Icicles Summary of the Ashigakubo Icicles Photo：Ashigakubo Station There are other places in Japan where large icicles can be seen in addition to the Ashigakubo Icicles, but they are not easy to visit due to long walks along steep paths. However, the Ashigakubo Icicles are the most accessible of the Top 3 Icicle Spots of Chichibu, and can be visited on a day trip from central Tokyo. The nearest station to the Ashigakubo Icicles is Ashigakubo Station on the Seibu Chichibu Line. It takes about 1.5 hours to reach Ashigakubo Station by train from Ikebukuro Station, and from there it's an approximately 10-minute walk. The Ashigakubo Icicles are a rare sightseeing spot where visitors can enjoy a spectacular winter view at just a train's ride from the heart of Tokyo. If you're in Japan this winter, consider visiting Chichibu for an extraordinary experience of ice and art. ◆Ice column with hollow legs◆ [Address] Daiji Ashigakubo, Yokose Town, Chichibu-Gun, Saitama Prefecture [Period] 16th to 25th February 2024 [Business Hours] Monday - Thursday 9:00-16:00 (last admission 16:00) [Friday, Saturday, Sunday and Holiday] Lighting up will be held from 17:00 to 20:00 　　　　　Light-up varies depending on sunset time 　　　　　*Lighting up on Saturdays, Sundays and national holidays is by advance reservation (web) Day and night exchange system [Admission fee] 500 yen (over junior high school students) · 300 yen (elementary school students) [Transportation access] Seibu Chichibu Line Ashigakubo StationGet off and walk 10 minutes [Parking] Yes (free) Accept pets: Yes 【TripAdvisor】The Ashigakubo Icicles

Shofu Maru, a Cargo Ship Equipped With a Wind Challenger: Video Introduction Source :YouTube screenshot This video, titled "Shofu Maru, the World's First Bulk Carrier Equipped With a Wind Challenger (Rigid-Wing Sail Wind Propulsion System), Is Finally Complete! - MOL Wind Challenger Project" (世界初のウインドチャレンジャー（硬翼帆式風力推進装置）搭載ばら積み船「松風丸(しょうふうまる)」が竣工！―MOL Wind Challenger Project), was uploaded by "Mitsui O.S.K. Lines Official / MOL Channel" (商船三井公式チャンネル / MOL Channel). The Shofu Maru, a ship equipped with a Wind Challenger, which converts wind energy directly into propulsion power to move a ship, has finally been completed. The video shows a Wind Challenger in operation and the construction process of the Shofu Maru. As efforts to address SDGs become increasingly important, the Shofu Maru, a cargo ship powered by the inexhaustible energy of wind, is sure to catch the attention of the public. Check out the video to see the ship using the latest technology known as the "Wind Challenger." What is the Wind Challenger? Source :YouTube screenshot The Wind Challenger (a hard sail wind propulsion system) has been developed mainly by MOL (Mitsui O.S.K. Lines) and Oshima Shipbuilding to reduce greenhouse gas emissions in order to prevent global warming, which is becoming a serious concern in today's world. Conventional ships use fossil fuels for propulsion, which results in significant emissions of carbon dioxide and other greenhouse gases. The concept of the Wind Challenger is that a large vertical sail mounted on a ship rotates in response to the wind. This changes the airflow around the rotating sails and generates a force that propels the ship in the one direction, causing it to move forward. A ship equipped with Wind Challengers are next-generation hard-sail ships and are expected to significantly reduce greenhouse gas emissions. What Is a 'Hard Sail'? Size, Characteristics, Advantages, Etc. Source :YouTube screenshot The huge hard sail mounted on the Shofu Maru look like towers. Hard sails are said to be an evolution of conventional sailboat technology. Made of FRP (Fiber Reinforced Plastic), the sails can be extended and retracted in four levels. They can extend up to 53 meters, and automatic adjustment allows the sails to rotate and expand or contract according to the strength of the wind, capturing the wind and converting it into propulsion. The advantages of hard sails are twofold: 1. The propulsive force of the sails gives the boat speed, allowing it to reach its destination faster 2. The power output of the main engine can be reduced because of the propulsive force of the sails, thus reducing fuel consumption without changing the number of days required to reach the destination. Another feature and advantage of hard sails is that they are environmentally friendly as they utilize natural energy - wind. Utilizing Wind Energy to Reduce Greenhouse Gas Emissions Source :YouTube screenshot Greenhouse gases are gases such as carbon dioxide and methane, and are considered a major contributor of global warming. The Shofu Maru, a coal carrier equipped with a Wind Challenger as a dedicated ship for Tohoku Electric Power Company, is expected to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 5% on the Japan-Australia route and by 8% on the Japan-North America West Coast route compared to conventional ships of the same type. A second sail is scheduled to be installed on a 50,000-60,000 DWT class ship transporting wood pellets, and future applications to crude oil tankers and LNG (liquefied natural gas) carriers are also being considered. It seems that the era of environmentally friendly hard sail ships is just around the corner. Wind Challengers and SDGs Photo：SDGs We hear a lot about the SDGs these days, but it was only about eight years ago, in September 2015, that they were adopted. The 17 goals were set forth for the 193 countries that are members of the United Nations to achieve over a 15-year period from 2016 to 2030. SDGs, which stands for Sustainable Development Goals, are aimed at eliminating poverty around the world, protecting the planet, and ensuring that peace and prosperity are available to all. The Wind Challenger is contributing to the following 6 of the 17 SDGs: 7. Affordable and clean energy 9. Industry, innovation and infrastructure 12. Responsible consumption and production 13. Climate action 14. Life below water 17. Partnerships for the goals The Wind Challenger is a new technology that will help us to care for the global environment and actively address these SDGs. Summary of the Wind Challenger, a Hard Sail Utilizing Wind Power Source :YouTube screenshot Environmental issues are a problem that must be addressed by countries around the world. In this context, the hard sail project is a plan to contribute to the global environment by focusing on wind, a natural energy source, instead of relying on fossil fuels. As the number of vessels equipped with Wind Challengers increases, it may spread around the world as one of the efforts to protect the environment in the logistics industry. With all of this in mind, it's no stretch to call the Shofu Maru the world's most advanced cargo ship.

Autumn Foliage at Dazaifu Tenmangu Shrine and KamadoShrine: Video introduction Photo：Dazaifu Tenmangu Shrine, Fukuoka Prefecture This video, titled "Dazaifu Tenmangu Shrine, Mt. Hozan｜Hiking and Autumn Leaves at Kamado Shrine SONY a6500" (太宰府天満宮　Dazaifu tenmangu宝満山　登山　紅葉の竈門神社(かまど) SONY a6500), was uploaded by "Ishii Valley" (石井渓谷). The 4.5-minute video shows the beautiful autumn foliage found at Dazaifu Tenmangu Shrine and Kamado Shrine. The video provides a realistic feeling as if you were actually visiting Dazaifu Tenmangu Shrine and Kamado Shrine. Be sure to check out the beautiful autumn leaves in the video, especially around the 2-minute mark! How to Get To Homanzan Kamado Shrine From Dazaifu Tenmangu Shrine Photo：Kamado Shrine, Fukuoka Prefecture Dazaifu, located in Fukuoka Prefecture, in Japan's Kyushu region, is widely known for Dazaifu Tenmangu Shrine. However, if you visit in the fall, there's another spot that we highly recommend you visit in conjunction with Dazaifu Tenmangu Shrine. That is, Kamado Shrine. Dazaifu Tenmangu Shrine and Kamado Shrine are located very close to one another, so it's possible to visit both places in the same day. If you're going from Dazaifu Tenmangu Shrine, a 5-minute walk from Dazaifu Station, to Kamado Shrine, it will take you about 30 minutes on foot. If you use public transportation, the Mahoroba bus (まほろば号) is a convenient way to get to the shrine. Take the bus bound for Uchiyama (内山) from the bus stop Miyamae (宮前) (in front of the Sanjo 7-Eleven), and you will arrive at the last stop, Uchiyama (in front of the shrine), in about 7 minutes. Since there are not many buses, you may want to check the bus schedule in advance before visiting Dazaifu Tenmangu Shrine. On the approach to Dazaifu Tenmangu Shrine, you'll find a variety of snacks, such as umegae mochi, a specialty of Fukuoka, as well as Japanese sweets made from strawberries, and Mont Blanc. There is also a wide variety of restaurants in the area, and other stalls selling things like steamed buns. If you have time to spare, consider taking a break for lunch or a quick snack. Kamado Shrine and the Anime Demon Slayer + Popular Charms Photo：Mt. Homan, Fukuoka Prefecture Homanzan Kamado Shrine has seen an increase in the number of visitors to the shrine, due to the enormous popularity of Demon Slayer (Kimetsu no Yaiba). However, not many people know much about Kamado Shrine itself. Kamado Shrine is located at the foot of Mt. Homan, known as a sacred mountain of Dazaifu. Mt. Homan is the located in the northeast, an unlucky direction, and rituals were held here to protect Dazaifu and the nation, leading to the construction of the Shinto shrine on the site. The main deity is Tamayori-hime no Mikoto. This deity is known as a god of marriage because of her divine power to attract souls ("tama," in Japanese). In addition, the shrine is also blessed with the power to ward off bad luck and evil spirits. It's said that the shrine's popularity was sparked by the fact that the surname of Tanjiro Kamado, the main character of Demon Slayer, is the same as that of the Kamado Shrine. The shrine is said to have been named after Mt. Homan, the mountain on which it stands, because of its shape, which resembles a kamado (a type of traditional Japanese stove). As mentioned above, the fact that the shrine was built to ward off demons is also a point of interest to fans of Demon Slayer. One of the most popular spots at the shrine is the amulet office. The building was designed based on the concept of "a building that will continue to be loved even 100 years from now," with pink and white as its base color, creating a modern atmosphere. When the shrine office was rebuilt, world-renowned interior designer Masamichi Katayama participated in the project, and the benches and chairs on the observation terrace were designed by Jasper Morrison. Be sure to take a look at the stylish shrine office, as it's not something you'd expect to find at a Shinto shrine. One of the most popular spots at the shrine is the amulet office. The building was designed based on the concept of "a building that will continue to be loved even 100 years from now," with pink and white as its base color, creating a modern atmosphere. When the shrine office was rebuilt, world-renowned interior designer Masamichi Katayama participated in the project, and the benches and chairs on the observation terrace were designed by Jasper Morrison. Be sure to take a look at the stylish shrine office, as it's not something you'd expect to find at a Shinto shrine. As for good luck charms, or "omamori" (お守り) in Japanese, the most popular is the ichigo omamori (いちごお守り, strawberry charm). In the old days, the four-character idiom "Ichi-go ichi-e" (一期一会), a Japanese phrase used to describe once-in-a-lifetime encounters, was used to describe a marriage or an important match, and this amulet is a prayer for such precious encounters to come true. There are many other cute charms and amulets sold at the shrine besides the strawberry charm, so consider purchasing one to commemorate your visit to the shrine. Hiking Mt. Homan, a Popular Sacred Mountain in Dazaifu, Fukuoka Photo：A hiking trail on Mt. Homan, Fukuoka Prefecture Mt. Homan, located in Dazaifu City, is a sacred mountain that has been praised since ancient times as a mountain where the gods dwell. It's a very popular mountain among hikers, many of whom visit the mountain to climb it. There are several trails for hiking Mt. Homan, but the most popular is the standard trail starting from Kamado Shrine. After passing through the Ichino-torii (first shrine gate), you'll find a full-fledged trail with stone steps. The ascent will take about 2 hours, and the descent will be a little quicker, at around 1.5 hours. Although the trails on Mt. Homan are well maintained, there are some steep points, such as "Hyakudan Ganki" (100段ガンキ), a series of 100 steep steps. Please make sure you are fully prepared for the challenge when hiking up the mountain. A breathtaking panoramic view awaits you after you reach the summit. Enjoy the cherry blossoms in spring, autumn leaves in fall, and seasonal flowers along the trail as you climb the mountain. You can also pay a visit to the Jogu (the highest point of the shrine) of Kamado Shrine, which is located at the top. The Autumn Festival at Kamado Shrine and the Best Time to See the Autumn Leaves Photo：Autumn leaves at Kamado Shrine, Fukuoka Prefecture In autumn, Kamado Shrine is enveloped in a vibrant palette of colorful. The best time to view the autumn leaves at Kamado Shrine is usually from early November to early December, with the Autumn Leaves Festival being held at the end of November. The Autumn Leaves Festival usually attracts many visitors, with stalls selling freshly picked vegetables and refreshments, flea markets selling a variety of goods, and even stalls seasonal spirits. The best time to see the autumn leaves at the shrine is at night. The contrast between the blue skies, green trees, and the bright red autumn leaves is different from the atmosphere of the shrine at night, when the autumn leaves are illuminated. Be sure to enjoy the night view from the observatory. Things to Do Near Kamado Shrine Photo：Kyushu National Museum. Fukuoka Prefecture Despite Dazaifu and Kamado Shrine being located on the outskirts of Fukuoka City, there are a number of attractions to check out in the area. Kyushu National Museum Kyushu National Museum features an Entrance Hall with a variety of facilities, and also hosts special displays, concerts, and events. There is also a Special Exhibition Hall that hosts a number of special exhibitions, a Cultural Exchange Exhibition Hall featuring regularly rotation exhibits, and Interactive Exhibition Gallery where guests of all ages can learn about Japan and countries that Japan has interacted with throughout history. Don't forget to check out the Museum Shop for souvenirs! Hours: 9:30 am - 5: 00 pm (last entry 4:30 pm). 9:30 am - 8:00 pm (last entry 7:30 pm) on Fridays and Saturdays during special exhibitions. Closed: Mondays and public holidays. If Monday is a public holiday, the museum will open and the following day it will be closed. Admission Fee: Adults: 700 yen, University Students: 350 yen, High school students and younger: Free, Seniors (70+): Free, Persons with disabilities: Free Dazaifu Amusement Park For those traveling with kids, the Dazaifu Amusement Park is a great place to relax and have fun with a family. The park roller coasters, water coasters, merri-go-rounds, petting zoos, and all sorts of activities that families can enjoy together. Additionally, there are food areas where you can grab lunch, shops for buying gifts, and even nursing facilities that can be used freely, and stroller rentals available. Hours: (Weekdays) 10:30 am - 4:30 pm, (Weekends & Holidays) 10:00 am - 5:00 pm. Closed: No regular closures. Please check the official website for more information. Admission Fee: Admission only - Adults (Middle school students and older): 600 yen, Seniors (65+): 500 yen, Children (Ages 3 to Elementary school students): 400 yen. Free ride pass - Adults (Middle school students and older): 2,900 yen, Seniors (65+): 2,800 yen, Children (Ages 3 to Elementary school students): 2,700 yen. Nearby Onsen Also located nearby are a number of onsen (hot spring) facilities. If you're looking to relax after a day of traveling or just looking to enjoy a nice warm bath, be sure to look up some hot springs in the area when visiting. Summary of Kamado Shrine, Mt. Homan, Fukuoka Prefecture Photo：Autumn foliage illumination at Kamado Shrine, Fukuoka Prefecture, Japan Kamado Shrine is located at the foot of Mt. Homan. In autumn, when the approximately 300 maple trees change color, you can see a different view of the shrine than in other seasons. Kamado Shrine is enshrined at the foot of Mt. Homan, which is revered as a mountain where the gods dwell, and we recommend that you visit the shrine not only in autumn but also in other seasons, as it's a place rich in nature. Don't forget to stop by when visiting Dazaifu Tenmangu Shrine. Also, if you're planning to climb Mt. Homan, please make sure you are fully prepared with appropriate footwear and clothing, and enjoy the spectacular view from the top. The mountain is also dotted with historical sites, such as the Gohaku Rakan (500 arhats), so be sure to keep an eye out for them as you make you way up and down the mountain. 【TripAdvisor】Kamado Shrine

HANAZONO ZIPFLIGHT, Niseko, Hokkaido: Video Introduction Photo：Mt. Yotei from the summit of Niseko Annupuri, Niseko, Hokkaido This video, titled "Hanazono Zip World Experience - Climax! Japan's longest Mega-zipline, Zip3 Black Diamond Superfly Ver." (Hanazono Zip Worldを体験 ~クライマックス！ 日本最長のメガジップライン、Zip3 Black Diamond Superfly編 ~), was uploaded by "Niseko Hanazono Resort" (Hanazono Niseko Resort ニセコ HANAZONOリゾート). At HANAZONO ZIPFLIGHT at the Niseko Hanazono Resort in Hokkaido, visitors can experience one of the longest ziplines in the world. Ziplining is an outdoor activity in which a belt or harness is attached to a cable that is suspended in the mountains, forests, or other natural areas, and a pulley is used to glide down the rope/cable. This video shows a thrilling zipline in Niseko, the 1,700-meter-long Black Diamond Superfly that runs from the heights of the mountain to the finish line on the ground with a top speed of 110 km/h. The zipline is one of the many exciting things to do in Niseko. While soaring through the skies, visitors can enjoy the spectacular views of Mt. Yotei. Summer & Winter at Niseko Hanazono Resort Photo：Snowshoes Located in the western part of central Hokkaido, approximately two hours by car from Sapporo and New Chitose Airport, Niseko is a resort area surrounded by Mt. Yotei, Niseko Annupuri, and other mountains. Known as a world-famous ski resort, it attracts many tourists and sports enthusiasts during ski season. Niseko Hanazono Resort boasts a wide range of winter activities that allow guests to enjoy the powdery snow of Niseko. ● Snow rafting tours ● Snowshoeing tours ● Horseback riding tours in the snow ● Tubing Park ● Indoor Kids Adventure Area - Galaxy of Kidz But winter season is not the only time to enjoy activities in Niseko. There are a variety of things to do at Niseko Hanazono Resort during the summer months. One of the most popular activities is HANAZONO ZIPFLIGHT, the popular Niseko Zipline. The following is an introduction to the features and attractions of the famous Niseko Zipline, HANAZONO ZIPFLIGHT. HANAZONO ZIPFLIGHT – Experience 3 Different Ziplines at the Largest Zipline in Japan Source :YouTube screenshot HANAZONO ZIPFLIGHT, widely known as the Niseko Zipline, is most notable for its length: HANAZONO ZIPFLIGHT is the longest zipline in Japan at 2,591 meters long. Not only is it the longest zipline in Japan, but it's also the longest zipline in Asia and one of the largest ziplines in the world. HANAZONO ZIPFLIGHT, widely known as the Niseko Zipline, has three ziplines: MACH1, MACH2, and MACH3, all of which have different a different level of intensity. It's recommended that you start with MACH1, which is less intense and has a gentle gradient, and then aim for MACH3, which is the most intense of the three. MACH1, the least intense, reaches speeds of 50 km/h, while MACH2 reaches speeds of about 70 km/h. MACH3, known as the "Black Diamond Superfly," reaches speeds of up to 110 km/h over a 1,700-meter-long course. Flying through the mountains and trees of Niseko, suspended 50 meters in the air, is a truly exciting experience. One of the things that makes the zipline so fun is that two ziplines are strung side by side, allowing visitors to experience it together with their family or friends. HANAZONO ZIPFLIGHT – Prices, Discounts, and Reservations Source :YouTube screenshot HANAZONO ZIPFLIGHT, also known as the Niseko Zipline, offers the following prices, reservation methods, and various discounts (current as of June 2023). Online reservations are given priority, and a 10% discount is also applied, so it's recommended that you book online in advance to apply for the zip line. Admission Fee: From June 10 - Adults: 15,000 yen, Children: 12,000 yen (Adults: Junior high school students and older / weighing 105 kg or less, Children: Elementary school students / weighing 30-105 kg) April 29 - May 28 - Adults and Children: 9,800 yen Reservations: Online reservations have priority Discounts: ● Web Discount - Online reservations receive 10% off the regular price ● Repeater Discount - 20% off on any of your following visits during summer 2023. ● HOKKAIDO LOVE! Discount: 2000 yen off on weekdays and 1000 yen off on holidays with Hokkaido Support Coupon (ほっかいどう応援クーポン). Niseko Ziplines – What to Wear Photo：A woman wearing a rain coat The Niseko Zipline can be enjoyed in comfortable, everyday clothing, but skirts are not permitted. We recommend wearing clothes that are easy to move in and that you do not mind getting dirty. Since you will be walking on unpaved terrain, heels and sandals are not permitted, and sneakers or other comfortable walking shoes are recommended. Helmets are required on the Niseko Zipline, so if you have long hair, tie it up with a hair band in advance. If you're thinking about riding the Niseko Zipline on a rainy day, we recommend wearing a waterproof windbreaker or rain jacket. This will protect you from rainwater and provide a comfortable aerial experience. That being said, in the event of inclement weather, some activities may not take place or the number of active ziplines may change. Please check the weather forecast in advance. A Luxury Hotel in Hanazono Photo：Sunrise from Mt. Yotei, Hokkaido After a day of physical activities in the comfortable nature of Hokkaido and enjoying the Niseko Zipline, a hotel with a spa is the perfect place to relax and unwind. Park Hyatt Niseko Hanazono, located within Niseko Hanazono Resort, offers a superb view of Mt. Yotei, as well as exquisite cuisine, and a spacious, luxurious environment to relax after a long day of travel. With outstanding reviews Park Hyatt Niseko Hanazono is a recommended hotel for those looking for a luxurious resort for adults. Other Things to Do in Niseko Photo：Oyunuma Pond, Niseko, Hokkaido Niseko is a popular destination in Hokkaido full of exciting outdoor activities to enjoy. Onsen Niseko is quite popular for its onsen (hot springs), and there are a number of locations in the Niseko area where you can enjoy relaxing in onsen all year round. Cycling Thanks to the beautiful scenery of Hokkaido, cycling is another popular activity in Niseko. The area boasts an endless number of breathtaking views with which to cycle to, and there are even cycling events, such as the Niseko Classic, held in the area each year. Camping Another exciting outdoor activity to enjoy in Niseko is camping. Again, making great use of the natural beauty of Hokkaido, there are a countless campgrounds available to choose from. You can choose a campground where you bring your own tent, or even one where the accommodations are provided. There are also free campsites as well, if you're looking to go camping on a budget. How to Get to Niseko Photo：Niseko Station, Hokkaido Access to Niseko will depend on where in Japan you're coming from. With that said, assuming you're already in Hokkaido, here are 3 ways to get to Niseko. Sapporo to Niseko From Sapporo Station, you can either take a bus to Otaru and then transfer to a bus which will take you to Niseko, or take a bus straight to Niseko (~3 hours). Hakodate to Niseko From Hakodate you can take a limited express train to Oshamambe Station, and from there transfer to a local line to Niseko Station (~4 hours). New Chitose Airport to Niseko From New Chitose Airport you can take the train to Sapporo Station, and from there to Otaru Station. From Otaru Station you can then take a bus to Niseko Station (~3.5 hours). Alternatively, you could take a bus from Sapporo Station to Niseko Station. Keep in mind that, if you're coming by car, you can significantly cut your travel time. Additionally, because the Niseko area is so vast, there are two main stations in the area: Niseko Station and Kutchan Station. Depending on where in Niseko you'll be sightseeing, the station you travel to can vary as well. Be sure to keep this in mind, as you can end up saving a lot of time by going to the station closest to your destination. Summary of HANAZONO ZIP WORLD, Home to the Largest Zipline in Japan Source :YouTube screenshot HANAZONO ZIPFLIGHT, one of the world's largest mega-ziplines, is a must-try activity when visiting Hokkaido. The thrill and excitement conveyed in the video, as well as the beautiful scenery, is sure to make for an unforgettable experience. We hope you get a chance to enjoy this aerial adventure in Niseko. 【Official Website】HANAZONO ZIPFLIGHT 【TripAdvisor】Niseko Hanazono Resort

■Table of Contents Introducing the Toki Liner Pass – Enjoy Travel in Niigata Prefecture at a Discount! The Toki Liner – A Highway Bus in Niigata Prefecture What Is the Toki Liner Pass? Toki Liner Pass Ticket Types (Prices) How to Purchase Tickets – Introducing the 'RYDE PASS' App How to Use RYDE PASS Enjoy Travel in Niigata With the Toki Liner Pass Things to Do in Niigata With the Toki Liner Pass Things to Do in the Kaetsu Area of Niigata (Northern Niigata) Things to Do in the Chuetsu Area of Niigata (Central Niigata) Things to Do in the Joetsu Area of Takada-Naoetsu Autumn Seafood Delicacies in Niigata Things to Do and Where to Eat With the Toki Liner Pass Secondary Transportation Services With the Toki Liner Pass Things to Do and Local Dining Services Available With the Toki Liner Pass Enjoy Travel in Niigata With This Affordable Highway Bus Ticket! Introducing the Toki Liner Pass – Enjoy Travel in Niigata Prefecture at a Discount! Photo：The Toki Liner Pass Highway buses are a great way to enjoy sightseeing in Niigata Prefecture! Avoid the fatigue of driving and trains! You can also enjoy a glass of delicious Niigata sake together with tasty Niigata specialties... Enjoy an affordable and exciting adventure in Niigata made possible by the Toki Liner. The Toki Liner Pass allows unlimited rides on designated highway buses in Niigata Prefecture for an entire day. In this article, we'll provide information about the Toki Liner Pass, as well as information on things to do during autumn in Niigata using the Toki Liner Pass! Without further ado, let's take a look at the Toki Liner Pass and how much it can save you! The Toki Liner – A Highway Bus in Niigata Prefecture Photo：The Toki Liner, a highway bus in Niigata Prefecture The Toki Liner is a highway bus service connecting major cities in Niigata Prefecture. It's a highway bus service that was started in April 2022 by five highway bus operators in Niigata Prefecture (Niigata Kotsu, Echigo Kotsu, Kubiki Jidosha, Niigata Kotsu Kankou Bus, Kanbara Tetsudo, and I.K ALLIANCE) on eight routes in the prefecture (Nagaoka Line, Kashiwazaki Line, Tokamachi Line, Gosen Muramatsu Line, Joetsu Line, Itoigawa Line, Higashisanjo Line, and Tsubame Line), and has been attracting attention as a new way to do travel in Niigata, in addition to cars, trains, and other means of transportation. The Toki Liner doesn't require reservations, and IC cards can be used to board the buses. Additionally, since you can rest assured that you will always have a seat, all buses are equipped with free Wi-Fi, making long-distance travel more comfortable. Furthermore, a bus location system is used on all routes, allowing passengers to check in where the bus is at any given time, in real time. Moreover, "Park & Ride" is a service in which passengers can park their cars in parking lots located next to the bus stops and use the highway buses. What Is the Toki Liner Pass? Source :Toki Liner Pass (PDF) The Toki Liner Pass introduced here is a one-day pass for unlimited rides on designated express bus routes within the prefecture on Saturdays, Sundays, and holidays. There are two types of passes, a 2,500 yen pass and a 1,500 yen pass, and the routes vary depending on which pass you choose. This allows you to choose that pass that best fits your budget and itinerary. The pass can also be purchased on the same day you visit Niigata, so you can travel around without having to make a reservation! The Toki Liner Pass can be purchased via an app and includes special discount tickets (sightseeing, secondary transportation, dining) along with the bus tickets. Be sure to read on for more information regarding special tickets. The tickets can be used from Saturday, July 15, 2023 to Saturday, November 18, 2023. Toki Liner Ticket Types (Prices) Photo：The Toki Liner Pass highway bus unlimited ride area [1,500 yen Pass] ・The 1,500 yen pass allows unlimited rides on a course between Niigata and Nagaoka. [Unlimited Ride Area & Bus Stops] ・Niigata ・Gosen Muramatsu ・Higashisanjo ・Nagaoka The 1500 yen Toki Liner Pass allows unlimited rides for one day within the designated area above. Discount tickets are available with the 1500 yen Toki Liner Pass. [2,500 yen Pass] ・The 1,500 yen pass allows unlimited rides on a course between Niigata and Joetsu. [Unlimited Ride Area & Bus Stops] ・Niigata ・Gosen-Muramatsu ・Higashisanjo ・Nagaoka ・Tokamachi ・Takada ・Naoetsu ・Itoigawa The 2500 yen Toki Liner Pass allows unlimited rides for one day within the designated area above. Discount tickets are also available with the 2500 yen Toki Liner Pass. Please refer to the Toki Liner official website for information on bus stops and routes. How to Purchase Tickets – Introducing the 'RYDE PASS' App Source :Toki Liner Pass and RYDE PASS App Download (PDF) The Toki Liner Pass can be purchased from the RYDE PASS app. Click here for the App Store download page Click here for the Google Play download page 1. Download the RYDE PASS app ↓ 2. Register as a member ↓ 3. Search for and select "Toki Liner PASS 2023" in the app ↓ 4. Select the course you wish to purchase How to Use RYDE PASS Tickets purchased with the app must be presented to the bus staff when boarding or exiting the bus. ※Presentation requirements differ depending on the ticket, so please check the ticket for more details. For more information on purchasing the Toki Liner Pass and how to use the ticket (how to ride the buses with it), please visit the RYDE PASS official website. Enjoy Travel in Niigata With the Toki Liner Pass Photo：The Shinano River, Niigata Prefecture Niigata Prefecture is known for its hot springs and ski resorts, which make it a popular travel destination in Japan. Niigata can be accessed from Tokyo via the Joetsu Shinkansen (bullet train) in approximately two hours, which attracts a large number of tourists year-round. The Niigata Plain (Echigo Plain), through which the Shinano River, the longest river in Japan, flows, is known for having the best rice in Japan, and Uonuma Koshihikari rice from Niigata is regarded as the "King of Rice" in Japan. Sake made from rice grown in Niigata is also popular, and the region is now the third largest sake producer and has the largest number of sake breweries in Japan. Kubota (久保田) and Hakkaisan (八海山) are two of the most popular sake brands in Niigata, and they pair well with the local cuisine of Niigata! Facing the Sea of Japan, Niigata also offers excellent seafood such as blackthroat seaperch, succulent prawns, and Japanese amberjack, which can be enjoyed all year round. Another attraction of Niigata Prefecture is that you can indulge in seafood caught fresh from the Sea of Japan at reasonable prices. Photo：Local cuisine in Niigata Other local delicacies include hegi soba (buckwheat noodles with seaweed kneaded into them), tai chazuke (sea bream chazuke) using sea bream from Kashiwazaki, black yakisoba using noodles and squid from Niigata, and Tsubame-Sanjo ramen, a type of ramen filled with back fat and a rich seafood broth that is sure to please even the most discerning palate. Things to Do in Niigata With the Toki Liner Pass Niigata offers a wide variety of dining options and sightseeing opportunities throughout the year, but autumn is an especially great time to visit the prefecture! Niigata's spectacular natural scenery, which turns red with the autumn leaves, coupled with the exquisite seasonal cuisine, make it a destination you'll be regret not visiting. Here we'll introduce some popular things to do and dining options in major areas of Niigata that can be reached via highway bus. Things to Do in the Kaetsu Area of Niigata (Northern Niigata) Around the area where you get off the highway bus "Niigata," you can enjoy a relaxing time at the aquarium and enjoy local Niigata cuisine. Marinepia Nihonkai (Niigata City Aquarium) The aquarium exhibits 20,000 aquatic organisms of approximately 600 species, making it one of the largest aquariums on the Sea of Japan side of Honshu (Japan's main island). The underwater tunnel that passes through the bottom of the large tank is truly incredible! The aquarium is divided into the following 10 zones to introduce organisms in various environments. ・Coastal Landscape Zone ・Sea of Japan Zone ・Flow of Warmth Zone ・Shinano River Zone ・Interactive Zone ・Aquatic Animals Zone ・Dolphin Stadium Zone ・Pinniped Zone ・Penguin Coast Zone ・Niigata Field Zone Photo：Marinepia Nihonkai (Niigata City Aquarium) Facility Information 【Address】5932-445 Nishifunami-cho, Chuo-ku, Niigata 951-8555 【Access】Right in front of the "Suizokukan Mae" (水族館前) bus stop (local bus) 【Required Time】1 hr 51 min from Nagaoka Station Laporte Gosen This complex has three facilities: a Lifelong Learning Area, an Industry Promotion Area, and a Commons Area (with children's playground equipment and other rest facilities) that takes advantage of the wooden architecture. Inside the building, there is a multi-purpose hall, a cafeteria, and various places where local specialties, such as knitted goods and silk products, are sold. Visitors can also purchase local foods produced in Niigata at the farmers' market, where fresh vegetables are delivered daily. Photo：Laporte Gosen, Gosen, Niigata Facility Information 【Address】863 Akami, Gosen City, Niigata Prefecture 【Access】A 3-minute walk from the "Ota Shinden" (太田新田) bus stop (Gosen Muramatsu Line) Niigata Manga and Anime Information Center This is a cultural facility related to manga and anime in Niigata, a prefecture which has produced many popular manga artists and animators. The museum introduces how manga and anime are made, has a corner where visitors can play with popular characters, experience voice acting and the world of manga and anime, and much more. Facility Information 【Address】Bandai City BP2 1F, 2-5-7 Yachiyo, Chuo-ku, Niigata-shi, Niigata 【Access】A 5-minute walk from the "Bandai City" (万代シティ) bus stop Things to Do in the Chuetsu Area of Niigata (Central Niigata) Around the area where you get off the highway bus at "Nagaoka" (長岡), there are facilities where you can enjoy Nagaoka Fireworks, one of the three largest fireworks festivals in Japan, and a sake brewery that is the pride of Niigata, throughout the year. Kawai Tsugunosuke Memorial Hall At Kawai Tsugunosuke Memorial Hall, visitors can learn about the history of Niigata through historical exhibits related to Kawai Tsugunosuke, who led the Nagaoka domain government at the end of the Edo Period. Approximately 30 items related to Kawai Tsugunosuke are on display, including his travel diary, which he wrote during his travels in western Japan, and which he bought to Kyushu during his travels, and the manuscript of Ryotaro Shiba's novel "Touge" (Mountain Pass). Photo：Kawai Tsugunosuke Memorial Hall, Nagaoka, Niigata Facility Information 【Address】1-1675-1 Kou, Nagaoka, Nagacho, Niigata Prefecture 【Access】An 8-minute walk from the "Nagaoka Station" (長岡駅) bus stop (Nagaoka Line) 【Required Time】1 hour 28 minutes from Niigata Station Roadside Station Nagaoka Hanabi Kan Visitors can experience Nagaoka Fireworks all year round at the dome theater, where they can enjoy one of Japan's three largest fireworks festivals with sound and images. In the exhibition room, which is free of charge, visitors can enjoy fireworks-related games and more on a large 15-meter-wide, 6-meter-tall screen, and the history of Nagaoka Fireworks is also introduced on the walls of the exhibition room. Photo：Roadside Station Nakaoka Hanabi Kan, Nagaoka, Niigata Facility Information 【Address】707 Kitamachi, Nagaoka-shi, Niigata 940-2121 【Access】An 8-minute walk from the "Higoshi" (日越) bus stop (local bus) Yoshinogawa Sake Brewery The 470-year-old brewery is home to Sake Museum Jogura, a facility that includes a store, a standing sake bar and displays of historical articles from Yoshinogawa's history. The brewery offers a variety of special and seasonal sake that can only be enjoyed at the brewery. Photo：Yoshinogawa Sake Brewery, Nagaoka, Niigata Facility Information 【Address】4-8-12, Settaya, Nagaoka-shi, Niigata, 940-1105, Japan 【Access】A 3-minute walk from the "Miyauchi 1-chome" (宮内1丁目) bus stop (local bus) Things to Do in the Joetsu Area of Takada-Naoetsu Around the area where you get off the highway bus at Takada and Naoetsu, you can enjoy autumn leaves at historical landmarks, and Niigata's local cuisine and history. Ryotei Ukiyo Ryotei Ukiyo is a long-established Japanese restaurant that has been in business since the end of the Edo Period (1603-1868). The restaurant also offers a limited menu that changes monthly. The garden, which changes beautifully from season to season, can be viewed from the restaurant's windows, allowing guests to enjoy their meals in a tasteful atmosphere. Photo：Ryotei Ukiyo, Joetsu, Niigata Facility Information 【Address】Nakamachi3-5-4, Joetsu, Niigata, 943-0831, Japan 【Access】A 5-minute walk from the "Takada Ekimae" (高田駅前) bus stop (Joetsu Line) 【Required Time】2 hours 12 minutes from Niigata Station Takada Castle Park Takada Castle Site Park, while famous for its cherry blossoms, becomes a popular spot for visitors in autumn when the maple and ginkgo trees change colors. The reflection of Takada Castle on the surface of the moat surrounding it, together with the autumn leaves, makes it a truly unforgettable attraction. The best time to view the autumn leaves is from early November for the cherry trees and from mid-November for the ginkgo trees. Near the park, there's playground equipment, benches, and a café, making it the perfect spot to go for a walk and enjoy the autumn leaves. Photo：Takada Castle Site Ruins, Joetsu, Niigata Facility Information 【Address】943-0835 Niigata, Joetsu, Motoshirocho, 44−1 【Access】A 1-minute walk from "Takada Joshi Koen Iriguchi" (高田城址公園入口) bus stop (local bus) Video article 2:12 Takada Joshi Park – One of Top 3 Nighttime Cherry Blossom Spots in Japan! Check Out the Cherry Blossoms in Full Bloom, the Cherry Blossom Blizzards, and the Nighttime Cherry Blossoms of Niigata Prefecture via Video! YouTube Taga Tea Roastery A renovated old machiya (Japanese townhouse) specializing in Japanese tea. Enjoy tea, Japanese sweets, rice crackers, and more at this new shop, which opened in April 2023. Souvenirs and teapots made locally in Joetsu are also available for purchase. Photo：Taga Tea Roastery, Joetsu, Niigata Facility Information 【Address】3-chōme-1-9 Nakamachi, Joetsu, Niigata 943-0831 【Access】A 6-minute walk from the "Takada Ekimae" (高田駅前) bus stop (Joetsu Line) Takada Sekai-kan Takada Sekai-kan opened in 1911 and is the oldest existing movie theater in Japan. The ultra-retro projection room, which has remained unchanged from when it opened, is one of the highlights of the building. It's registered as a Tangible Cultural Property of Japan and a Heritage of Industrial Modernization. Photo：Takada Sekai-kan, Joetsu, Niigata Facility Information 【Address】6 Chome-4-21 Honcho, Joetsu, Niigata 943-0832 【Access】A 10-minute walk from the "Takada Ekimae" (高田駅前) bus stop (Joetsu Line) Autumn Seafood Delicacies in Niigata ・Salmon Autumn salmon, which is in season from September to December, have a nice firm texture. ・Blackthroat Perch Blackthroat perch are caught year-round, and early autumn is said to be the best season for them. ■Here are some recommended restaurants where you can enjoy seasonal tuna bowls Sushi Marui The "Nodoguro Aburi-don" is a bowl of rice topped with blackthroat perch caught in Niigata, that has been quickly seared to bring out the flavor of the fish's fat. ※Please note that the Nodoguro Aburi-don is available only for lunch. 【Address】8-1411 Higashiboridori, Chuo-ku, Niigata City, 951-8065 【Access】A 10-minute walk from the "Niigata Station" (新潟駅) bus stop Things to Do and Where to Eat With the Toki Liner Pass When you purchase a Toki Liner Pass, you will also receive a number of special discount tickets (sightseeing, secondary transportation, dining) as well. They can be used for free toppings and side dishes at restaurants and more. Be sure to show your Toki Liner Pass to receive the discounts. Secondary Transportation Services With the Toki Liner Pass Photo：Rent-a-car/Rent-a-cycle ・Rent-a-cycle (Nagaoka area) 　- Rent-a-cycle fee: 300 yen → 100 yen ・Rent-a-cycle (Muramatsu area) 　- Rent-a-cycle fee: Free ・Rent-a-car (Niigata area) 　- Rent-a-car fee: 500 yen discount on car rental fees ・Rent-a-car (Nagaoka and Tsubame-Sanjo area) 　- Rent-a-car fee: 500 yen discount on car rental fees Sightseeing and Local Dining Services Available With the Toki Liner Pass Photo：Toki Liner Pass special discount coupons ・KYOWA Classic Car & Life Station (Higashisanjo area) 　- 300 yen discount for interactive activities ・Laporte Gosen (Gosen Muramatsu area) 　- 200 yen discount at the farm direct shop ・Kawai Tsugunosuke Memorial Museum (Nagaoka District) 　- Free admission ・Tsubamesanjo Bit (Higashisanjo area) 　- 300 yen off your bill ・Ramen Tenzan Nagaoka Store (Nagaoka area) 　- Three free gyoza (dumplings) ・Chinese Restaurant Atago (Niigata area) 　- Ramen toppings: 1 free ajitama (flavored egg) ・Oretachi no Ramen Chobikichi (Niigata area) 　- Ramen toppings: 3 free nori (dried seaweed) ・WAKA Noodle Shop (Niigata area) 　- One extra piece of chashu (braised pork) ・Ramen Hachi (Niigata area) 　- A free raw egg or small serving of rice ・Hachibei Ramen (Niigata area) 　- Half an Ajitama (flavored egg) or 2 sheets of Nori (dried seaweed) free ・Shrimp Ramen Specialty Restaurant "Ebisu DELUX" (Niigata area) 　- Two free Yodare Gyoza (dumplings) ・Kokoro Ramen (Niigata Area) 　- 100 yen discount on noodles ・Echigo Hillside Park (Nagaoka area) 　- 100 yen discount on three kinds of soft-serve ice cream at Rose Café For details on ticket information, facilities and stores, please visit the official RYDE PASS website. Enjoy Affordable Travel in Niigata With the Toki Liner Pass! Photo：Discover Niigata with the Toki Liner Pass! Come and experience the beautiful natural scenery unique to autumn in Niigata while enjoying the seasonal flavors of the prefecture. A trip to Niigata is sure to make for some lifelong memories! The Toki Liner Pass introduced in this article is a great way to enjoy autumn travel in Japan at an affordable price. Tickets can be easily purchased via the RYDE PASS app. Click here for the App Store download page Click here for the Google Play download page Enjoy sightseeing in Niigata while taking in the various scenery from the comfort of a highway bus! We hope to see you there! .caption-heading-2 { font-weight: bold; font-size: 1.7rem; margin-bottom: 15px; max-width: 800px; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; margin-top: 60px; } .mod-article-caption .caption-text { margin-bottom: 40px; } .caption-information-table { background-color: #efefef; margin-top: -20px; margin-bottom: 50px; padding: 20px; border-radius: 8px; width: 90%; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; } .caption-information-table .title { font-weight: bold; font-size: 1.7rem; } @media screen and (max-width: 1024px) { .caption-information-table { width: 95%; padding: 30px 15px 30px 15px; } } .caption-heading-table .caption-text li { line-height: 2.5rem; margin-top: 1.3rem; } .mod-article-caption .caption-heading { position: relative; border-left: 5px solid #ff1300; padding-left: 10px; margin-top: 60px; } .mod-article-caption .caption-text { margin-bottom: 50px; } .mod-article-caption .caption-heading-table { width: 95%; padding: 30px 15px 1px 15px; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; } .caption-heading-table ul{ counter-reset: listnum; /* カウンターをリセット */ list-style: none; /* 標準のスタイルは消す */ font-size: 1.5rem !important; } .caption-heading-table ul.list-style-number-jp>li{ margin-left: 1.1em; text-indent: -1.1em; font-weight: bold; } .caption-heading-table ul.list-style-number-jp>li::before{ counter-increment: listnum; /* counter-resetと同じ文字列 */ content: counter(listnum); /* カウントした数に応じて番号を表示 */ content: counter(listnum) ". "; } /*.list-style-dot { list-style: "↓"; }*/ .list-style-dot>li::before{ content:"↓ "; } .list-style-dot>li { padding-left: 1.8rem; margin-left: 1.1em; text-indent: -1.1em; line-height: 2rem !important; margin-top: 1rem !important; } .separation_line { border-width: 0 0 8px; border-style: solid; border-image: url('data:image/svg+xml,') 0 0 100% repeat; width: 216px; margin:auto; margin-bottom: 50px; } .line-height-text { line-height: 3.7rem !important; }

JR KYUSHU RAIL PASS: Video Introduction Photo：JR Kyushu, Tsubame 800 Series Shinkansen This video, titled [4K] JR KYUSHU RAIL PASS (Northern Kyushu ver.), was uploaded by JR KYUSHU WORLD. The JR KYUSHU RAIL PASS is a rail pass that allows you to ride not only regular and rapid trains operated by JR Kyushu, but also limited express trains, sightseeing trains, and even the Kyushu Shinkansen. The JR KYUSHU RAIL PASS is an unlimited train pass for the Kyushu area, and there are three types of passes to choose from. The passes are available to foreign tourists with passports issued outside of Japan. Check out the promotional video to get an idea of what a train trip in Kyushu is like. JR KYUSHU RAIL PASS: Prices and Types Photo：JR Kyushu, Limited Express 'Aso Boy!' Here we'll introduce JR KYUSHU RAIL PASS prices and types. There are three types of passes, which cover the following areas: Northern Kyushu, Southern Kyushu, and all of Kyushu. Fees for each area vary according to how many days you plan to use the pass. Be sure to choose the one that fits your itinerary. ●JR KYUSHU RAIL PASS: 3-Day Pass ・All Kyushu - Adults: 17,000 yen (~$121 USD), Children: 8,500 yen (~$61 USD) ・Northern Kyushu - Adults: 10,000 yen (~$71 USD), Children: 5,000 yen (~$36 USD) ・Southern Kyushu - Adult: 8,000 yen (~$57 USD), Children: 4,000 yen (~$29 USD) ●JR KYUSHU RAIL PASS: 5-Day Pass ・All Kyushu - Adults: 18,500 yen (~$132 USD), Children: 9,250 yen (~$66 USD) ・Northern Kyushu - Adults: 14,000 yen (~$100 USD), Children: 7,000 yen (~$50 USD) ●JR KYUSHU RAIL PASS: 7-Day Pass ・All Kyushu - Adults: 20,000 yen (~$143 USD), Children: 10,000 yen (~$72 USD) The above information is current as of February 2023. Please check the JR Kyushu official website for up-to-date information. ※Please keep in mind that passes must be used consecutively, meaning you cannot use the pass on one day, skip the next day, and then continue using it for 2 more days (in the case of a 3-day pass). As an example, a 3-day pass that starts on February 1 can be used on February 1, 2, & 3. ※Please note that you must meet the following conditions to be eligible for the pass: 1. You must hold a passport issued by a country other than Japan. 2. You must reside outside of Japan and must be visiting Japan on a temporary visitor visa. The Best Places to Visit in Kyushu to Make the Most of Your JR KYUSHU RAIL PASS Photo：Glover Garden, Nagasaki City, Nagasaki Here is a brief introduction of the best routes for traveling in Kyushu. ●Northern Kyushu Area This route takes visitors around Nagasaki, Hita in Oita Prefecture, and the hot spring resorts of Beppu, using Fukuoka and Hakata as a hub. Highlights include the Nagasaki Atomic Bomb Museum, Glover Garden, onsen (hot springs), and the Jigokudani Meguri (Beppu Onsen hot spring tour). You can enjoy sampling the local cuisine with dishes such as chanpon (champon) and Hita Yakisoba. ●Southern Kyushu Area This route takes visitors around Obi, Aoshima, and Miyazaki, using Kagoshima as a hub. Visitors can experience Satsuma Kiriko (cut glass), Obiten (Obi-style tempura), the hot springs of Ibusuki Onsen, Oni no Sentaku Ita (the Devil's Washboard, a beautiful beach in Miyazaki), Aoshima Shrine, Obi Castle Ruins, Takachiho Gorge and a variety of other tourist attractions. ●All Kyushu Using Hakata as a base, this route takes visitors to Mt. Aso in Kumamoto, Ibusuki and Kirishima Onsen in Kagoshima, and Beppu Onsen in Oita, where they can enjoy the Jigokudani Meguri (Beppu Onsen hot spring tour), Lake Kinrin, and enjoy touring around in horse-drawn carriages, before returning to Hakata where visitors can enjoy shopping and entertainment at Canal City, among various other activities. You can also enjoy the local flavors at the various food stalls in Hakata. [Video] 0:26 - Yufuin Station Other Tickets and Rail Passes for Traveling in Kyushu on a Budget Photo：JR Kyushu Series 787 Limited Express Train So far, we've introduced the JR KYUSHU RAIL PASS, a rail pass useable by foreign residents visiting Japan. However, JR Kyushu also offers a variety of other railroad passes and discount tickets for residents of Japan as well. KYUSHU NET KIPPU, KYUSHU NET HAYATOKU7, and KYUSHU NET HAYATOKU3 are discount tickets sold exclusively online. KYUSHU NET KIPPU is a convenient ticket for using the Kyushu Shinkansen and limited express trains, and can be changed as many times as necessary as long as the change is made before receiving the ticket and before the train departs. KYUSHU NET HAYATOKU7 and KYUSHU NET HAYATOKU3 are special tickets with a limited number of seats that offer discounts for reservations made 7 and 3 days in advance, respectively. Additionally, JR Kyushu offers the Gurutto Kyushu Kippu (ぐるっと九州きっぷ) rail pass, which allows unlimited rides on non-reserved ordinary and rapid trains on all JR Kyushu lines for three consecutive days. In addition, there is also the Nimai Kippu (2枚きっぷ), which allows you to ride on limited express trains and reserved seats of ordinary trains at a discounted price, although the stations you can travel to and from are limited. JR Kyushu offers a wide variety of special train passes and tickets, so you can choose the one that best fits your travel itinerary. If you're traveling by train, you can also enjoy train travel not only in Kyushu but also further away by combining them with the Seishun 18 Ticket. Summary of the JR KYUSHU RAIL PASS Photo：A 415 series train, JR Kyushu The JR KYUSHU RAIL PASS allows you to visit the most popular attractions in Kyushu for an affordable price. If you're traveling on a budget, be sure to make use of the pass as you enjoy the nature and culture of Kyushu, as well as its delicious food, all while saving money. If you're a resident of Japan, be sure to make sure of the other discount tickets available, and tell your friends visiting from outside of Japan to pick up the JR KYUSHU RAIL PASS! 【Official Website】JR KYUSHU RAIL PASS 【Official Website】Kyushu Railway Company

Tsuyama Railroad Educational Museum, Okayama: Video Introduction Photo：Tsuyama Railroad Educational Museum This video, titled "[Tsuyama Railroad Educational Museum] A Great Facility for Kids! A Railway Museum Full of Learning and Discovery (Tsuyama, Okayama)" (【津山まなびの鉄道館】こどもたちも大喜び！まなびと発見がいっぱいの鉄道館（岡山県津山市）), was uploaded by "Okayama Haretabi: Okayama Prefecture Official Tourism Guide" (おかやまハレ旅:岡山県観光連盟). Check out what the facility is like in the short, 1-minute video! Tsuyama Railroad Educational Museum: Admission Fees, Opening Hours, and Facility Information Photo：A steam locomotive at the Tsuyama Railroad Educational Museum Tsuyama Railroad Educational Museum is a museum (railroad preservation and exhibition facility) that exhibits railway-related items, opened at Tsuyama Station in Tsuyama, Okayama, in Japan's Chugoku Region. The museum is operated by the Tsuyama City Tourist Agency. The former Tsuyama Fan-Shaped Locomotive Depot was reopened on April 2, 2008, with the aim of enabling visitors to enjoy learning about the relationship between society, regional development, and the railroad. In addition to trains, railway turntables, and a steam locomotive driving wheel, the facility includes a corner where visitors can learn about the history of railroads in Okayama and how railroads work. There is also an exhibition corner with a diorama of the cityscape of Tsuyama. Admission is 310 yen for adults, 100 yen for junior high school and elementary school students, and free for children not yet of elementary school age. The museum is open from 9:00 am to 16:00 pm and closed on Mondays. A Locomotive Depot With a One-Of-A-Kind Train Photo：A DE50-1 diesel locomotive at the Tsuyama Railroad Educational Museum The former Tsuyama Fan-Shaped Locomotive Depot, built in 1936, is the second largest existing facility of its kind in Japan, following the Kyoto Railway Museum in Umekoji, Kyoto. The fan-shaped locomotive depot has 17 tracks and is 22.1m (72.5 ft) deep, and displays a total of 13 locomotives, including a DD51 diesel locomotive, KiHa 58 and KiHa 28 diesel locomotives, and a KiHa 181 diesel locomotive. The highlight of the Tsuyama Railroad Educational Museum is the DE50-1 diesel locomotive. This diesel locomotive is equipped with a high-horsepower engine, and only one was manufactured in Japan in 1970. This diesel locomotive is a must-see for railroad fans, and is only exhibited in Japan at the Tsuyama Railroad Educational Museum. Another eye-catching feature of the museum is the steam locomotive driving wheel. The driving wheel belong to a JNR Class C57 No. 68, the largest size of steam locomotives of its kind in Japan, and is 5 ft. 8 in. across and weighs 3,480kg (3.8 tons). The powerful whistle of the Class D51 No. 755 steam locomotive is sounded at 12:00 pm and 3:00 pm on days when the museum is normally open, delighting the ears of visitors. Family-Friendly Facilities Photo：A diorama in the Machinami Room at the Tsuyama Railroad Educational Museum In addition to exhibits such as steam locomotives, the Tsuyama Railroad Educational Museum is also equipped with family-friendly facilities that children and families can enjoy together. First, visitors can learn about the history of railroads in Okayama and how they work through hands-on activities. The Ayumi Room introduces the history of the Okayama Railroad and events from when railroads first appeared in Japan up to the present day. In the Shikumi Room, visitors can learn about the technology and ingenuity used to ensure the safety and comfort of the railroads, using hands-on equipment. Next is the Machinami Room, which displays a diorama of the Tsuyama cityscape. Visitors can see N scale model trains running through the Tsuyama cityscape, which even includes the former Tsuyama Fan-Shaped Locomotive Depot. It's an enjoyable time for both children and train enthusiasts. You can also learn about the history through photos, tickets, timetables used during that period, and retro station name plates. The Tsuyama Railroad Educational Museum also has a Manabi Room that can be used for field trips, where a DVD introducing the Tsuyama Railroad Educational Museum is shown together with an orientation session. There are also railway-related souvenirs that can only be purchased here, goods made in collaboration with the Kyoto Railway Museum, and original goods of the Tsuyama Railroad Educational Museum are also available. Other Things to Do in Tsuyama Here are some other things places to throw on your itinerary when visiting Tsuyama. Tsuyama Castle Photo：Tsuyama Castle, Okayama Tsuyama Castle is a castle built by order of Mori Tadamasa, a military commander of the Warring States period, and younger brother of Mori Ranmaru, who was killed in the Honnoji Incident (the assassination of Oda Nobunaga). Although the main castle tower was demolished in accordance with Haijo Edict (a law abolishing castles in Japan during the Meiji Period), many other structures still remain, and spring sees the blooming of cherry blossoms around the castle. Hours: (April - September) 8:40 am - 7:00 pm, (October - March) 8:40 am - 5:00 pm. ※7:30 am - 10:00 pm during the Tsuyama Cherry Blossom Festival Admission Fee: (Adults) 310 yen. Middle school students and younger are free ※Discounts are available for groups of 30 or more. Shurakuen Garden Photo：Shurakuen Garden, Okayama Shurakuen Garden is a Japanese garden located in Tsuyama, Okayama, that was built in 1658 by Mori Nagatsugu, the lord of the Tsuyama Domain. The garden has beautiful ponds and is a great place to go for a walk. Visitors to the garden can enjoy viewing cherry blossoms in spring, water lilies in summer, and beautiful autumn leaves in the fall. Hours: (April - October) 7:00 am - 8:00 pm, (November - March) 7:00 am - 5:00 pm. Admission Fee: Free Summary of the Tsuyama Railroad Educational Museum Photo：Tsuyama Railroad Educational Museum The Tsuyama Railroad Educational Museum is a family-friendly facility that can be enjoyed by children and adults alike. It's a valuable facility for passing on the valuable history of railroads to future generations, as it's designed to help elementary and junior high school students deepen their understanding of railroads. The Tsuyama Railroad Educational Museum has a parking lot that can accommodate approximately 35 cars, making it possible for families to visit by car. That being said, if you're a train enthusiast, you'll probably enjoy coming by train! The museum also hosts various events, such as a quiz rally and a train-washing experience. If you're traveling to Okayama and looking for things to do, consider stopping by! 【Official Website】Tsuyama Railroad Educational Museum 【TripAdvisor】Tsuyama Railroad Educational Museum

About Hachioji's Promotional Tourism Video The video, titled "Hachioji Promotional Video 'Colorful Life'" (八王子市シティプロモーション動画「Colorful Life」), was uploaded by "HachiojiCityOffice." It captures the various charms of Hachioji. Being a part of the Greater Tokyo metropolitan area, Hachioji features many shopping districts such as "CELEO," a mall that is attached to the station. But being the closest hiking destination from Tokyo is what makes it popular among the city dwellers who day trip up there to get some fresh air. Hosting as many as 23 university campuses, Hachioji is also known as a college town. There are many historical and cultural sites where one can be exposed to Japanese culture and tradition as well. In this article, we'll introduce popular tourist spots in Hachioji alongside the video. The video includes a powerful image of a basketball game that the local team, "Tokyo Hachioji Bee Trains," is playing in. It also showcases the natural scenery that makes Hachioji a popular day-trip destination for local Tokyoites. Take a Hike and View Hachioji From the Summit of Mt. Takao Source :YouTube screenshot Hachioji is a popular natural recreational area in Tokyo. From 0:06, the video captures refreshing images of Hachioji's natural environment such as the "Takatsuki paddy field zone" (the largest agricultural zone in the Tokyo metropolitan area), or the stunning rows of Ginkgo trees. Mt. Takao is the most popular natural attraction in Hachioji. The 2,000 ft. tall mountain debuts at 0:32. Awarded 3 stars by the Michelin Green Guide, it is the most visited mountain in the world, with 2.6 million visitors annually. There's also a chair lift and cable-car that can take you halfway up the mountain, which makes it suitable for casual climbers as well. Climbers can enjoy a beautiful view and magnificent autumn colors, as well as the get an overlook of the city of Tokyo. Source :YouTube screenshot Introduced from 1:09 is "Takaosan Beer Mount," a renowned beer garden where we you can enjoy a stunning night view from up high. It even offers a view of the urban core of Tokyo or Yokohama on clear days. The open air beer garden and breathtaking view are sure to get you in the spirit for some spirits! The temple introduced at 2:03 is Mt. Takao Yakuoin, which is said to be a very spiritual site. The statue found by the cable-car stop is of Saburo Kitajima, a well-known Japanese enka singer who lives in Hachioji. The statue is popular among Instagrammers! Hachioji’s Gastro Culture! Source :YouTube screenshot Don't forget to explore the foodie attractions during your trip to Hachioji. The video introduces some recommended restaurants and local dishes as well. Spotlighted from 0:39 is a bakery "Boule Beurre Boulangerie". The specialties here are the butter-rich croissants or pain au fruit with walnuts. Photo：Hachioji Ramen Hachioji Ramen is a great choice for lunch as well! Its distinguishing features are the simple soy sauce-based soup and the chopped onion topping. There are also many different Hachioji Ramen specialty restaurants around the train station. The most celebrated ramen restaurant is "Goemon" located by the JR Chuo Line Nishihachioji Station, which is introduced at 0:55. The image is sure to make your mouth water. Other hidden gems throughout the city include "Nameko-jiru" (Miso-soup with Nameko mushrooms) of Shiroyama Chaya, a tea-house that sits on the summit of Shiroyama, the Konnyaku of the long standing shop "Nakano-Ya," or the old-fashioned izakaya "Shimura Hall"'s Satsuma-age (deep fried fish paste). "Hachioji Neapolitan," a favorite among the locals, is also a must-try. In 2019, the breakout TV celebrity Roland opened his bubble tea store "The Pearl" in Hachioji. Hachioji also features farmers' markets such as "FIO" (FIO野菜直売所) or "Juke Juke" (ジュークジューク) to provide a direct sale of locally grown organic vegetables. Japanese History and Culture in Hachioji Source :YouTube screenshot There are many cultural or historic sites and events in Hachioji. The Hachioji Festival in August is the city's primary event. The parade floats, gorgeous Mikoshi (portable shrines) carried around the city, and the Lion Dance performance are the highlights of the festival that attract many visitors from the Kanto area. Some other notable cultural or historic sites/events are: Hachioji Kuruma Ningyo (a traditional puppet theater), Hachioji Geisha, Hachioji Firework Festival, Tokyo Fuji Art Museum, Mt. Takao Trick Art Museum, Musashi Imperial Graveyard, Takaosan Yakuoin Yukiji Temple, Hachioji Castle, Takiyama Castle, Nakamachi Kurobei (black wall) district (a remnant of old geisha district), and the Okuda silkscreen factory. The rows of ginkgo trees shown in the video from 0:53 were planted by the Imperial Household Agency in 1929 to commemorate the completion of the Musashi Imperial Graveyard. The annual Ginkgo Festival is held in November along the Koshu Kaido Road where the stunning ginkgo trees are lined up. A Summary on the Introduction of Hachioji Photo：Hachioji, Minamiasa River cherry blossoms The Hachioji promotional video captures the charm of the city that's a hometown to many different Japanese musicians, comedians, and TV personalities. Featuring Mt. Takao that captures the attentions of instagrammers, Hachioji is a great destination for a wide range of travelers. Having turned 100 years old in 2018, Hachioji is a city loved by many people. We definitely recommend giving it a visit! 【Tripadvisor】Hachioji https://www.tripadvisor.com/Tourism-g1060898-Hachioji_Tokyo_Prefecture_Kanto-Vacations.html

Video Introduction of Mobility Resort Motegi/Camp Village, Haga-gun, Tochigi, Japan This video, titled "[Mobility Resort Motegi] Starry Sky Forest Camping Village｜Lotus Tents Promo Video" (【モビリティリゾートもてぎ】森と星空のキャンプヴィレッジ　ロータステントPV), was created by Mobility Resort Motegi (モビリティリゾートもてぎ). Mobility Resort Motegi is located in Motegi, Tochigi, in Japan's Kanto region. It has a camping field called Starry Sky Forest Camping Village Mobility Resort Motegi next to a popular circuit where some of the world's top races are held. What is Mobility Resort Motegi? Photo：Hello Woods, Mobility Resort Motegi Mobility Resort Motegi, formerly known as Twin Ring Motegi, is a theme park in Motegi, Tochigi where visitors can enjoy motor sports and the great outdoors. Mobility Resort Motegi, owned by Honda Mobilityland, changed its name in 2022 to coincide with the merger of Suzuka Circuitland Co., Ltd. And Twin Ring Motegi Co., Ltd. Mobility Resort Motegi is a family-friendly theme park. In the park area, you can enjoy an adventure course and rides and explore nature in a forest. At Hello Woods, you can go for a ride on ziplines. There's also the Starry Sky Forest Camping Village where you can enjoy glamping (a fancy type of camping where gear is provided for you), BBQ, and relaxing hotels. If you're a fan of motorsports, the Honda Collection Hall, with approximately 300 Honda automobiles and motorcycles on display, is a must-see attraction. [Video] 0:13 - The Camping Area Surrounded by Nature Located Near the Circuit Camping, Glamping, and Log Cabins! Outdoor Activities at Starry Sky Forest Camping Village Photo：Camping There are three ways to spend time with family and friends at Starry Sky Forest Camping Village at Mobility Resort Motegi: ・Camping Pitch a tent and enjoy the outdoors with a relaxing fire. ・Glamping A fancy camping experience for those looking to enjoy the outdoors without the hassle of setting up and taking down tents. ・Log cabins Enjoy the outdoors in any season thanks to the log cabins that even come with air conditioning. [video] 0:36 - Glamping in Lotus Tents Things to Do at Mobility Resort Motegi: Athletic Activities and More! Photo：An aerial view of Mobility Resort Motegi Here, we'll introduce some popular activities at Mobility resort Motegi. ・Mega zipline: Wing Enjoy a view of nature and the nearby race track from the sky with this 1,837 foot-long-zipline at Hello Woods. ・Forest Obstacle Course: DOKIDOKI A huge, tree-climbing athletic facility that resembles an acorn tree. This popular activity features 39 difficulty levels, allowing everyone from elementary school students to adults to enjoy the challenge. ・Forest Labyrinth: ITADAKI A three-dimensional maze themed on the ecosystem of the park's forests, where visitors collect stamps from 14 locations on their way to the top. The huge animals and plants are really impressive. ・Forest Family Walk: TEKUTEKU Visitors can enjoy a game-like stroll through the Hello Woods' forest, while taking pictures, learning, and relaxing. ・Attractions Featuring Cars and Motorcycles There are more than 10 attractions for people of all ages and experience levels. Visitors can drive a car with a driving school motif, as well as motorcycles, off-road vehicles, and even race cars. In addition, there are many other original activities available only for a limited period of time to enjoy nature and activities limited to guests only. Please check the official website for more information! Glamping at Mobility Resort Motegi: Rates, Meal Fees, Etc. Photo：A t-bone steak Various glamping plans are available at Mobility Resort Motegi, including those that can be enjoyed in both rotary tents and bell tents, and which offer a full range facilities. Plans include a half-board plan that includes a T-bone steak BBQ dinner and breakfast using fresh, local ingredients, a plan that includes a pass to the park, and an overnight plan that allows guests to bring their own food and cooking equipment and enjoy their stay how they please. We also recommend checking out their original accommodation plans, such as the Birthday Plan. The price per "room" starts from 25,800 yen (~$182 USD) for an overnight stay in the lotus tents with no meals included. How to Get to Mobility Resort Motegi (Motegi Circuit) There are several ways to get to Mobility Resort Motegi, and here we'll list a few of them. Mobility Resort Motegi From Tokyo Station (Shinkansen) To get to Mobility Resort Motegi from Tokyo Station, take the shinkansen to Utsunomiya Station (50 mins) and then from Utsunomiya Station, take a bus (90 mins) or taxi (60 mins) to Mobility Resort Motegi. Mobility Resort Motegi From Tokyo Station (Local Train) From Tokyo Station, take the Limited Express train to Mito (80 mins) and then take a bus to Mobility Resort Motegi (90 mins). Mobility Resort Motegi From Haneda Airport and Narita Airport If you're wondering how to get to Mobility Resort Motegi from Haneda or Narita Airport, the easiest way is to first make your way to Tokyo Station and then use one of the two routes above. Summary of Mobility Resort Motegi Surrounded by a natural forest, Mobility Resort Motegi is the perfect place to get away from your hectic daily life. Mobility Resort Motegi also has great reviews, with many people saying that they were able to enjoy themselves all day without getting bored and wanting to visit again. Glamping is also a great option for those with small children. If you're visiting the race track to enjoy some motorsports, consider staying at the nearby camping/glamping area and enjoying a night under the stars with some BBQ! 【Official Website】Mobility Resort Motegi 【TripAdvisor】Mobility Resort Motegi

Video introduction of craftsmanship at Kyogoku Kaneyo, an eel specialty restaurant in Kyoto City, Kyoto Prefecture This video, titled "Kyogoku Kaneyo: A Grilled Eel Master in Kyoto｜the Art of an Eel Master Who Has Been Serving Grilled Eel for 58 Years" (５８年間ひたすら鰻を焼き続けた鰻爺の職人技「京極　かねよ」), was uploaded by "WAZAIRO." It showcases the artisanal skills of the chef, from how the unagi (freshwater eel) is prepared to how the fluffy Japanese omelette is placed on top. What Is Kabayaki? Photo：Eel kabayaki Kabayaki is a method of cooking used in Japan wherein long, thin, scaleless fish are skewered and grilled in a teriyaki style (grilled while covered in a sweet soy sauce marinade). In Japan, this style of cooking is mainly used to prepare eel, but is also used to cook a number of other fish. Records show that kabayaki has existed in Japan since at least the late 1,300s, although the cooking method was different than that of modern day kabayaki. Chawanmushi, the Perfect Umami Flavor to Go With Your Unagi Photo：Chawanmushi The video shows the atmosphere of the restaurant and you can hear all of the appliances, etc. used in the restaurant as well. The chawanmushi (Japanese steamed egg custard), which can be ordered for 600 yen, is a must-try. [Video] 0:45 - How Chawanmushi is Made Kansai-Style vs Kanto-Style Eel – The Different Styles of Eel in Japan After sitting in an ice bath for some time, the eels are then skillfully prepared by the chef. Although "Kaneyo" is a restaurant in Kyoto, they use the Kanto-style of preparing and grilling eels, known as "Edoyaki." Let's take a look at the differences between Kansai-style and Kanto-style eel. Kansai-style: The eels are opened from the belly, skewered without being steamed, and then grilled with the head still on the skewer and removed later. Kanto-style: The eels are opened from the back, steamed, skewered, and the head is removed before grilling. In the video, the eel is dexterously skewered and steamed by the chef. The steamed eel is dipped into the sauce and then broiled. The eels are grilled rapidly, with the cooking conditions carefully monitored by the skilled chef. [Video] 2:04 - Preparing and Cooking Eel What is Kinshi-don? The Specialty of Kyogoku Kaneyo Photo：Kinshi-don kinshi-don is the signature dish of Kyogoku Kaneyo, but what is it exactly? Kinshi-don refers to an eel bowl with a fluffy Japanese egg on top. In the video, you can see how the fluffy egg is cooked between two stoves with different heat levels, adjusting the heat to get the perfect omelette. The resulting dish, with a large, fluffy egg protruding from the bowl is both photogenic and delicious! Underneath the egg you'll find the perfectly cooked eel. Peeling back the egg to see the delicious eel underneath is part of what makes this dish such a treat. [Video] 15:40 - Cooking the Egg Used for Kinshi-don A Summertime Eel Eating Tradition in Japan Photo：Unaju Eel is known to be rich in vitamins, and as such, it became tradition to eat it during the summer months to ward off the fatigue caused by Japan's hot summers. The most common day for this is Doyo no Ushi no Hi, or "The Midsummer Day of the Ox." In 2023, this day falls on July 30 (Mon.). If you're looking to try some tasty Japanese eel, consider trying it on a hot summer day to beat the heat! Unagi vs Anago: The Different Types of Eel in Japan Photo：Anago (conger eel) sushi There are two types of eel commonly eaten in Japan: unagi and anago. Unagi is a freshwater eel, whereas anago (conger eel) is a saltwater eel. In terms of flavor, unagi (うなぎ) is known to have a richer flavor, while anago are said to have a lighter flavor. Because of this, unagi is often prepared in a kabayaki style, while anago is often steamed or prepared as tempura. As for nutrients, unagi generally has far more vitamins than anago. Kyogoku Kaneyo, a Restaurant in Kyoto You Don't Want to Miss! Kyogoku Kaneyo is located in downtown Kawaramachi, in the Nakagyo Ward of Kyoto. Founded in the early Taisho period (1912-1926), the restaurant boasts a traditional Japanese atmosphere and the same delicious taste, with eel grilled using a secret sauce that has been passed down for 100 years. The superb dishes have even earned it a spot in the Kyoto Michelin Guide. The second-floor tatami room has a relaxing atmosphere, and yose performances are held there each month. If you're into rakugo and other Japanese performance arts, we recommend checking it out. ◆Kyogoku Kaneyogura◆ 【Address】456 Matsugaecho, Nakagyo Ward, Kyoto, 604-8034 【Telephone】075-221-0669 【Closed】Closed on Wednesdays 【Parking】No private parking lot, please use a nearby paid parking lot 【Access】 -From JR Kyoto Station, take the No. 5 city bus to Kawaramachi Sanjo (河原町三条) and walk 2 minutes. -A 5-minute walk from Kyoto City Hall on the Tozai Subway Line -A 5-minute walk from Sanjo Keihan Station on the Keihan Main Line

The Yaeyama Islands, the Pride of Okinawa: Video Introduction This video, titled "[4K] Spectacular Aerial Views: Yaeyama Islands, Okinawa (Ishigaki Island, Hatoma Island, Aragusuku Island, Kuroshima Island, Iriomote Island)" (【沖縄/石垣島/竹富島/浜島/幻の島】石垣島観光スポット　絶対行くべき幻の島（浜島）), was uploaded by "AQUA GeoGraphic," a channel that mainly uploads underwater videos of Japan, as well as nature videos and other clips of Japan and abroad. In this video, you will see the spectacular view of the sea of the Yaeyama Islands. Where Are the Yaeyama Islands? The Yaeyama Islands are a group of 12 islands, including Ishigaki Island, Taketomi Island, Kohama Island, Kuroshima Island, Aragusuku Island, Iriomote Island, Hateruma Island, and Yonaguni Island. They occupy one fourth of the total area of Okinawa Prefecture. Check out the aerial and underwater footage of the beautiful sea of the Yaeyama Islands in the video! Kabira Bay – A Scenic Location 40 Minutes From New Ishigaki Airport Photo：Kabira Bay, Ishigaki Island Kabira Bay is located about 40 minutes away from New Ishigaki Airport, the gateway to the Yaeyama Islands, by car. The color of the sea changes depending on the time of day you view it from, and the scenery afforded by the uninhabited islands scattered throughout the bay is simply breathtaking. The view of the bay has been selected as one of the "Top 100 Landscapes of Japan." The Beauty of Kabira Bay has earned it three stars in the Michelin Green Guide Japan. Popular Scuba Diving Spots on Ishigaki Island! Photo：Scuba diving on Ishigaki Island, Okinawa There are many beautiful scuba diving spots and must-see locations around Ishigaki Island. Here are a few places we recommend checking out: ・Kabira-Ishizaka Manta Scramble (川平石崎マンタスクランブル) - A place scuba diving spot where you can dive with manta rays ・Yoshiwara Arch (吉原アーチ) - A fantastical underwater scuba diving spot where the light shines beautifully through the exit of the arch ・Jukabijin (樹下美人) - A tree-shaped root with schools of fish dancing around it ・Arakawa Double Arch (荒川Ｗアーチ) - An arch with two tunnels, crevasses, and other terrain ・Yonehara Double Reef (米原Ｗリーフ) - A scuba diving spot that can be enjoyed by beginners and expert divers alike These are only some of the scuba diving spots you can find on Ishigaki Island, but there are many more. Things to Do on Hatoma Island – A Lesser-Known Destination in Okinawa Hatoma Island is a small island with a population of just 50 people. Although the island does not attract as many people as other tourist sites, it's a place where humans and animals coexist in harmony. With beautiful sandy beaches and coral reefs there's plenty to enjoy here. You can even see wild goats in town. Both children and adults can enjoy snorkeling on the sandy white beaches. Legends of Mermaids on Aragusuku Island Photo：Aragusuku Island, Taketomi, Okinawa Aragusuku Island is said to have once been inhabited by dugongs, and you can even find Ningyo Shrine (人魚神社, lit. 'Mermaid Shrine') on the island that only islanders are allowed to enter. It's a mysterious island with many other forbidden areas. Aragusuku Island consists of two islands, Kamiji Island and Shimoji Island, which are not accessible by regular boats and can only be reached via tours departing from Ishigaki Island or Iriomote Island with local guides. The islands are known as snorkeling spots where you can enjoy nature. Things to Do on Kuroshima Island – A Unique, Heart-Shaped Island With Fresh Air, Sea Turtles, and More! Photo：Kuroshima Island, Okinawa Kuroshima Island is known as "Heart Island" because of its heart-like shape. It is also known as a nesting ground for sea turtles, and the island is home to the Kuroshima Research Institute, which researches sea turtles and other marine life. Interestingly, the cow population on Kuroshima is 10 times that of the human population, so visitors can enjoy a magnificent view of cows dotting the landscape. Visitors also can enjoy swimming and snorkeling at Nakamoto Beach, located on the west side of the island. Jungle Tours and Cave Exploration on Iriomote Island, the Last Unexplored Island in Japan Photo：A jungle tour on Iriomote Island, Okinawa Iriomote Island is referred to as "the last unexplored island in Japan" and is covered with pristine subtropical virgin forests and mangrove forests at many river mouths. Iriomote Island offers many activities to enjoy its great nature, including scuba diving, kayaking, spelunking, and jungle trekking tours. Other Things to Do on the Yaeyama Islands! Photo：A starry sky from the Yaeyama Islands In addition to the islands mentioned above, there are several other remote islands in the Yaeyama Islands which have their own charms. Hateruma Island, the southernmost inhabited island in Japan, is home to the beautiful sea dubbed Hateruma Blue and starry skies, which are a prime location for stargazing. To get to Hateruma Island, you'll have to take a high-speed boat (ferry) from Ishigaki Island. Taketomi Island, a small island southwest of Ishigaki Island, is a popular remote island where you can fully experience the tropical atmosphere of Okinawa. The buffalo cart tour, which takes you to traditional Okinawan houses with red-tile roofs, banyan trees, coral trees, and other seasonal flowers, all while listening to Okinawan folk songs played by the guide, is extremely popular. Kohama Island, located on the east side of Iriomote Island, is one of the leading resort areas in the Yaeyama Islands. Although Kohama Island is home to famous resort hotels, much of the nature on the island remains untouched, and there is even a famous road called Sugar Road that passes through the middle of sugar cane fields. It's a popular location that has been used in many Japanese television dramas. Yonaguni Island, Japan's westernmost island, is full of attractions, such as Tategami Rock (Standing God Rock) and Gunkan Rock (Battleship Rock). Yonaguni Island is also home to a hill where you can view the last sunset in Japan each day, as well as spots that are thought to be underwater ruins. In addition to scuba diving, you can enjoy glass boat and snorkeling tours as well. In addition, tourists to Yonaguni Island can purchase souvenirs in the souvenir store at Yonaguni Airport to commemorate their trip to the island. For example, you can buy hanasake (a special type of spirit, made only on Yonaguni island, with 60% alcohol content), as well as straps and drawstrings made of Yonaguni ori (Yonaguni brocade), a vivid fabric with 500 years of history. How to Get to the Yaeyama Islands & Visiting Other Islands: Ferry Schedules + Prices As we mentioned above, New Ishigaki Airport is the gateway to the Yaeyama Islands. As such, visitors to the island will need to travel to the island by plane. Flights are available from all major airports in Japan, including Tokyo, Osaka, Kyoto, and Okinawa. Flight prices and times will vary by location. In the past, there was a ferry from Naha that took visitors directly to the Yaeyama Islands, but the service was discontinued in 2008. After you've arrived on Ishigaki Island, you can visit the other islands via ferry. Most islands have regularly scheduled ferries, but some islands have just 1-2 ferries scheduled each day, so we recommend looking up ferry timetables before visiting. Please also keep in mind that because travel time to each islands varies, so to do ferry ticket prices. Round trip tickets can cost anywhere from 1,500 yen (~10 USD) to 6,000 yen (~42 USD). Summary of the Yaeyama Islands, Okinawa If you haven't already watched the video, be sure to take a look at it, as you can see incredible aerial views of the islands in Okianwa, Japan. The Yaeyama Islands are a place where you can enjoy untouched nature, as well as scuba diving and snorkeling in crystal clear waters. The Yaeyama Islands also offer a unique cultural experience, different than you'll find on mainlaind Okinawa. With all this in mind, what are you waiting for?! Plan your trip to the Yaeyama Islands! 【Trip Advisor】Okinawa, Japan

■Table of Contents What Kind of Place is Rishiri Island? Recommended Tourist Attractions in Rishirifuji Otatomari Marsh, the Most Popular Tourist Attraction on Rishiri Island Hime Marsh, a Tourist Attraction Famous for Its Reflection of the Upside-Down Rishiri Fuji Shiroi Koibito no Oka, the Package Design for a Famous Hokkaido Confection 3 Popular Cycling Courses on Rishiri Island Rishiri Saikuru Road Rishirifuji Green Line Rishiri Island Blue Line Rishiri Island Fureai Cycling Tour, a Popular Event on Rishiri Island Activities to Try On Rishiri Island Family Campsite Yuni – Enjoy Island Camping Under the Stars Rishirifuji Onsen – Relax and Rejuvenate After a Long Day of Traveling Water Sports on Rishiri Island Rishiri Yu-Yu Running, a Popular Marathon Around the Island Hiking on Mt. Rishiri – A Climbing Guide for Beginners and Advanced Climbers Climbing Season: June to September Mt. Rishiri Hiking Trails Oshidomari Hiking Trail (Beginner - Intermediate Hiking Trail) Kutsugata Hiking Trail (Advanced Hiking Trail) The Best Foods on Rishiri Island The Mouthwatering Sea Urchin of Rishiri Island Rishiri Island, a Treasure Trove of Seafood Delicacies Popular Souvenirs on Rishiri Island How to Get to Rishiri Island How to Get to Rishiri Island by Airplane How to Get to Rishiri Island by Ferry An Unforgettable Travel Experience Awaits You on Rishiri Island! What Kind of Place is Rishiri Island? This video, titled "Rishiri Island, Hokkaido - Cycling PR Video (Long Version) - Summer Edition" (北海道利尻島　サイクリングPR動画　ロングver　～夏編~), was uploaded by "Rishirifuji Town Hall." The video tells the story of one woman, tired from her daily life in the city, who travels to Rishiri Island in Hokkaido in the summer in search of escape. The vast skies and expansive landscape of Rishiri Island are not something that can be conveyed simply by glancing at a travel brochure. The footage shown in the video captures the excitement that one can experience by physically visiting Rishiri Island. Be sure to check out the video for a tour of Rishiri Island by rental bicycle, and experience the culture, gastronomy, and warm interactions with the local people of Rishiri Island. Photo：Mt. Rishiri (Rishiri Fuji), Rishiri Island, Hokkaido Rishiri Island is a small island with a circumference of 60 km, that can be toured via car in just 1.5 hours, and is full of delectable delicacies to indulge in! This article will provide information on tourist attractions on Rishiri Island during the tourist season from early summer to autumn. Enjoy the spectacular views of the upside-down Rishiri Fuji, Shiroi Koibito no Oka, as well as outdoor activities, such as camping, hiking, and cycling, and seafood delicacies made using freshly caught sea urchin from Rishiri Island. We'll also go over how to get to Rishiri Island, so if you're thinking about traveling to Rishiri Island, be sure to stay tuned for all of this useful information! Recommended Tourist Attractions in Rishirifuji Rishiri Island is located in the Sea of Japan in northern Hokkaido and has a population of around 2,200. The name "Rishiri" comes from the Ainu word "Riishiri," which means "Island with tall mountain(s)," a reference to Mt. Rishiri, located directly in the center of the island. Located approximately 52 kilometers west of the city of Wakkanai, the northernmost point of Japan, the island can be reached via ferry in roughly 1 hour and 40 minutes. During the summer months, June through August, when the island is busy as a tourist destination, the average temperature in Rishirifuji stays below 68°F. Because the temperature varies depending on the weather and time of day, it's recommended that you bring something you can easily throw on and take off, as it's cool and comfortable in the summer as well. Rishiri Island consists of two towns, Rishirifuji and Rishiri. This article will introduce selected tourist attractions and things to do in Rishirifuji. Otatomari Marsh, the Most Popular Tourist Attraction on Rishiri Island Photo：Otatomari Marsh, Rishiri Island, Hokkaido Located in the southeastern part of the island, Otatomari Marsh is the largest lake on Rishiri Island. You can see Otatomari Marsh, the most popular tourist attraction on Rishiri Island, starting at 21:54 in the video. Otatomari Marsh is located on the opposite side of the island from the port of Oshidomari, and can be reached via bus in approximately 35 minutes. If you visit Otatomari Marsh, we highly recommend a walk along the promenade. On the well-maintained 1-kilometer long, 30-minute walking trail, visitors can enjoy a spectacular view of Mt. Rishiri and the seasonal vegetation in the area. Moreover, if the weather and other conditions are right, you can even see Rishiri Fuji (Mt. Rishiri) reflected upside down on the surface of the lake. The beautiful blue surface of the lake, surrounded by a forest of Sakhalin spruces, is so beautiful that it's no wonder it's called the best tourist attraction on Rishiri Island. Rishiri Island is known as the area where cherry blossoms bloom the latest in Japan. On the Otatomari Marsh boardwalk, you can enjoy cherry blossom viewing in early June. In the video, you can see Otatomari Marsh in its entirety via aerial footage, and you'll be amazed at the natural beauty stretching as far as the eye can see. Photo：Minamihama Marsh, Rishiri Island, Hokkaido Around Otatomari Marsh is the largest marshland on Rishiri Island, Numaura Marsh, which has been designated as a Natural Monument by the town of Rishirifuji. The marshland is called "Mikazukinuma" (lit. "Crescent Moon Marsh"), and is said to be a phantom swamp because it can only be seen for a couple months during the winter when there is snow on the ground. At the rest house in the parking lot of Otatomari Marsh, visitors can purchase snacks made from freshly caught seafood from Rishiri, such as scallops baked in butter and grilled whelks, as well as souvenirs like Rishiri Kombu, the high-quality dried seaweed of Rishiri. Otatomari Marsh Information 【Address】Numaura Oniwaki, Rishirifuji, Rishiri District, Hokkaido 097-0211 【Telephone】0163-82-2201 (Tourist Information Center in Oshidomari Ferry Terminal) 【Parking】29 cars 【Access】Take the Soya Bus (宗谷バス) bound for Oniwaki (鬼脇) from Oshidomari Port and get off at Otatomari-numa (オタトマリ沼) (approx. 35 mins). Hime Marsh, a Tourist Attraction Famous for Its Reflection of the Upside-Down Rishiri Fuji Another popular tourist attraction on Rishiri Island is Hime Marsh (Himenuma Marsh), where visitors can enjoy a spectacular view of the natural scenery of the town of Rishirifuji. Hime Marsh can be seen from 18:00 in the video. Photo：Hime Marsh, Rishiri Island, Hokkaido Hime Marsh is a unique marsh surrounded by nature, located approximately 2 km (1.2 miles) southeast of Oshidomari Port, the gateway to Rishiri Island. A 100-meter walk along a well-maintained promenade from the nearby parking will take you to Hime Marsh. On the way to the promenade you'll find Memory Bridge (想い出橋) (video 18:17~), a suspension bridge spanning the Omobetsu River, which is surrounded by greenery and has a wonderful atmosphere. The murmur of the river below is therapeutic. The main attraction of Hime Marsh is the reflection of the upside-down Rishiri Fuji (another name for Mt. Rishiri) on the surface of the pond. From early- to mid-morning is the best time to see the upside-down Rishiri Fuji, as the surface is of the pond is still undisturbed by the sun and there are few waves caused by the wind. Hime Marsh is also a popular photo spot on Rishiri Island for capturing fantastic photos. Photo：Rishiri Fuji at Hime Marsh, Rishiri Island, Hokkaido Hime Marsh, with a circumference of approximately 800 meters (~2,600 ft) and a depth of 2 meters (6.5 ft), is said to be the remains of an explosion crater, and it looks as though the ground has been gouged out. The lakeside promenade, designated as Himenuma Park, is home to wild birds and plants that will make the 20-minute walk around it a memorable one. From the Himenuma Observatory, you can enjoy a panoramic view of Cape Peshi and Oshidomari Port, which are sure to be an unforgettable part of your trip! Hime Marsh is an artificial pond made of a small marsh and spring water, which was created about 100 years ago in 1917, and is full of trout that were released into it. Knowing facts and tidbits of information like this will make your trip to Rishiri Island even more enjoyable. There are restrooms in the parking lot and a store in front of Hime Marsh, making it a great place for cyclists to take a break during their trip to Rishiri Island. Hime Marsh Information 【Address】Wannai Oshidomari, Rishirifuji, Rishiri District, Hokkaido 097-0101 【Operation Period】May-October 【Telephone】0163-82-2201 (Tourist Information Center in Oshidomari Ferry Terminal) 【Parking】16 cars 【Access】Take the Soya Bus (宗谷バス) bound for Oniwaki (鬼脇) from Oshidomari Port, get off at Himenuma-guchi (姫沼口) (5 min.), and walk 30-40 minutes. Shiroi Koibito no Oka, the Package Design for a Famous Hokkaido Confection Photo：Shiroi Koibito no Oka, Rishiri Island, Hokkaido Shiroi Koibito no Oka (White Lover's Hill) (video 20:40) is a new tourist attraction in Rishirifuji that was created in 2014. It's a 35-minute bus ride from Oshidomari Port, a 15-minute walk from Otatomari Marsh, and is located on the coast across Route 108 from Otatomari Marsh. The official name of Shiroi Koibito no Oka is "Numaura Observatory." From the hill, you can see Mt. Rishiri over Otatomari Marsh, the Numaura Coast on the ocean side, and mainland of Hokkaido beyond the magnificent Sea of Japan, providing a spectacular panoramic view of the island. It's a must-see view when visiting Rishiri Island. Shiroi Koibito no Oka (White Lover's Hill) is depicted on the package of "Shiroi Koibito," a delicious cookie and popular souvenir from Hokkaido. The picture on the package of the cookies is a depiction of a snow-covered Mt. Rishiri seen from this area. Shiroi Koibito is a western-style confectionery made of chocolate sandwiched between crispy cookies and sold by Ishiya, a confectionery manufacturer in Sapporo, Hokkaido, and is one of the most popular souvenirs in Hokkaido, selling approximately 200 million pieces annually since 1976. If you propose on Shiroi Koibito no Oka and bring a photo taken there to the Rishirifuji Tourism Association office at Oshidomari Ferry Terminal, you'll receive a proposal certificate officially approved by Ishiya, the manufacturer of Shiroi Koibito. It will be a treasured memory of your travels in Hokkaido and a lifetime memory for you and your partner. Shiroi Koibito no Oka Information 【Address】Rishirifuji, Rishiri District, Hokkaido 097-0211 【Operation Period】May-October 【Telephone】0163-82-1114 (Rishirifuji Industry, Commerce, and Tourism Promotion Division) 【Parking】10 cars 【Access】Take the Soya Bus (宗谷バス) bound for Oniwaki (鬼脇) from Oshidomari Port, get off at Otatomari-numa (オタトマリ沼) (approx. 35 mins). 3 Popular Cycling Courses on Rishiri Island The video shows a woman on a trip to Rishiri Island who tours the island while cycling from one attraction to the next. Rishiri Island is known as one of the best cycling spots in Japan. Cycling on Rishiri Island through the beautiful natural scenery of Hokkaido while feeling the pleasant breeze of northern Japan is an experience that will make you oblivious to the passing of time and help wash away your fatigue. Cyclists gather from all over Japan to enjoy the spectacular natural scenery of Hokkaido. Photo：Image of cycling, Rishiri Island, Hokkaido The following is a list of recommended cycling courses on Rishiri Island: ・Rishiri Saikuru Road (利尻・彩くるロード) ・Rishiri Fuji Green Line (利尻富士グリーンライン) ・Rishiri Island Blue Line (利尻島絶景ブルーライン) Here are the characteristics of each course. Rishiri Saikuru Road The course is enjoyable for beginners as there are relatively few major ups and downs, but it is suitable for those who are confident in their physical strength as it circles the island's approximately 60-kilometer (~37.3 miles) circumference. A 24.9 km (15.5 miles) bicycle path is provided along the course, and you can rent a bicycle in Oshidomari to start your cycling tour. If you ride clockwise, you can ride along the west coast in the evening, and you may be able to see a beautiful sunset. The course will take about 7 hours if you ride at a speed of 8 km/h (5 mph) while slowly taking in the natural scenery, so it's recommended that you leave around 9:00 a.m. to return before the sun sets. During your cycling tour, you can visit the following tourist attractions on Rishiri Island. Photo：A beautiful sunset, Rishiri Island, Hokkaido Rishiri Saikuru Road Course Oshidomari Ferry Terminal → Rishirifuji Onsen → Wannai Ohashi Bridge (湾内大橋) → Hime Marsh → Oniwaki → Shiroi Koibito no Oka → Otatomari Marsh → Minamihama Marsh → Senhoshimisaki Park → Reiho Yusui (麗峰湧水) → Itsukushima Benten Shrine of the North (北のいつくしま弁天宮) → Neguma no Iwa/Jinmen Iwa (寝熊の岩・人面岩) → Kamui Kaigan Park → Rishiri Athletic Park (利尻町運動公園) → Rishiri Forest Park (利尻町森林公園) → Fujino Park (富士野園地) (video 7:13) → Yuhigaoka Observatory → Rishirifuji Onsen and Footbath (利尻富士温泉・足湯) → Oshidomari Ferry Terminal Photo：Rishiri Saikuru Road cycling map Rishirifuji Green Line A short course for families to enjoy the streets of Rishirifuji with a total distance of 6.5 km (4 miles) and taking approximately 1 to 2 hours to complete. You can stop at popular tourist spots in Rishirifuji in the northern part of Rishiri Island, such as the Yuhigaoka Observatory where you can see a beautiful sunset over the Sea of Japan and Rebun Island, Umi no Eki Oshidomari (video 4:45), and the Cape Peshi Observatory (Lighthouse of Love). Rishirifuji Green Line Course Oshidomari Ferry Terminal → Rishirifuji Onsen → Fujino Park (video 7:13~) → Izumi no Fukuroma → Oshidomari Ferry Terminal Photo：Rishiri Fuji Green Line cycling map Rishiri Island Blue Line A casual, easygoing cycling course that takes around 2 to 3 hours to complete and covers a total distance of 18 km (~11.2 miles), taking cyclists around popular tourist attractions in the town of Rishirifuji in the northern part of Rishiri Island. A bicycle path is maintained for bicycles only, so you can enjoy a safe cycling tour. Depending on the season, you can see people fishing from the shoreline, as well as kelp laid out in rows to dry with Rishiri Fuji in the backdrop, a view that is unique to this port town. From Wanai Ohashi Bridge (湾内大橋), you can enjoy a spectacular panoramic view of the blue sea and Mt. Rishiri. Photo：Cape Peshi, cycling course Photo：Kelp being laid out to dry Rishiri Island Blue Line Course Oshidomari Ferry Terminal → Nozuka Observatory → Hime Marsh → Wanai Ohashi Bridge → Rishirifuji Onsen → Oshidomari Ferry Terminal Photo：Rishiri Island Blue Line Course cycling map Rishiri Island Fureai Cycling Tour, a Popular Event on Rishiri Island In late August, the Rishiri Island Fureai Cycling Tour (利尻島一周ふれあいサイクリング) is held. Rishiri Island residents and cycling enthusiasts from all over Japan participate in this event because they can enjoy the beautiful views of Rishiri Island and experience the nature of the island firsthand. This is an event where you can ride a bicycle around the island with many other participants while experiencing the island's charms to the fullest. Photo：Rishiri Island Fureai Cycling Tour Before you start cycling, be sure to pick up a cycling map. The map is a detailed guide to the entire cycling course on Rishiri Island, so it will not only help you choose the right course, but also ensure that you don't get lost along the way. Please rest assured that you can have an enjoyable cycling tour, as there are bike stands, tools, and air tanks available at various locations on Rishiri Island. If you're looking to enjoy a casual cycling experience on Rishiri Island, we recommend using the rental bicycles. Some inns rent bicycles exclusively to guests, so be sure to check with them in advance if you wish to use one. Electric bicycles are also available for rent, so those lacking confidence in their physical strength or those who have never cycled for long periods of time need not worry. Prices for rental bicycles range from approximately 1,500 yen to 3,000 yen ($10 to $20 USD) per day. When cycling on Rishiri Island, please keep in mind that the course around Rishiri Island is quite long, taking about 7 hours to complete, so it's important to pay attention to your physical condition as well as your equipment. Also, as the island coexists with nature, be sure to act in a manner that respects the natural environment. Activities to Try On Rishiri Island When visiting Hokkaido, there's plenty of things to do that allow you to enjoy the natural wonders of the island. Family Campsite Yuni – Enjoy Island Camping Under the Stars Photo：A starry sky on Rishiri Island This remote location, far from the city, offers an unparalleled view of the starry night sky as far as the eye can see. It's a bucket list experience in Hokkaido, where you can fall asleep with a smile on your face. Because there is little light pollution on Rishiri Island, you can enjoy an extraordinary time seeing the Milky Way and watching shooting stars. There are five campgrounds on Rishiri Island, and this article will introduce Family Campsite Yuni (ファミリーキャンプ場ゆ～に), located in the town of Rishirifuji. Located in Rishirifuji Amenity Park (利尻富士町アメニティパーク), a 5-minute drive from Oshidomari Port, Family Campsite Yuni is across the street from Rishirifuji Onsen (Rishirifuji Spa), the northernmost natural hot spring in Japan. This campground is popular among campers who seek the to enjoy an open-air hot spring while camping. At Family Campsite Yuni, there are bungalows and cottages available, and there are plenty of rental items, including tents and sleeping bags. You can also purchase supplies such as charcoal and barbecue equipment, so you and your friends or family can visit empty handed. From the campground, you can see the summit of Mt. Rishiri, making it a popular place to stay before or after hiking the mountain. The campground is relatively new and clean, and reservations are not required for tent sites, making it a convenient place to enjoy the outdoors. Photo：Family Campsite Yuni, Rishiri Island, Hokkaido Family Campsite Yuni Information 【Address】Sakaemachi Oshidomari, Rishirifuji, Rishiri District, Hokkaido 097-0101 【Operation Period】May 1 - October 31 【Parking】29 cars 【Admission Fee】Adults: 520 yen, Elementary school students and younger: 310 yen ※As of June, 2023. Rishirifuji Onsen – Relax and Rejuvenate After a Long Day of Traveling Photo：Outdoor baths at Rishirifuji Onsen, Rishiri Island, Hokkaido Rishirifuji Onsen, located across the street from Family Campsite Yuni, is a famous hot spring on Rishiri Island that attracts some 60,000 visitors a year. If you're going to the nearby Family Campsite Yuni, we highly recommend checking it out, as it's a fun experience on Rishiri Island. The open-air bath with a view of Mt. Rishiri and the ocean is a special treat for tired bodies. The sunset over the Sea of Japan and the starry night sky make the open-air bath the ultimate experience. After enjoying the open-air baths, you can sample the famous "Kanro Sensui," a famous spring water from Rishirifuji. Relaxing in open-air baths while enjoying a view of Mt. Rishiri will help wash away the fatigue from your trip. Rishirifuji Onsen Information 【Address】Sakaemachi-227-7 Oshidomari, Rishirifuji, Rishiri District, Hokkaido 097-0101 【Telephone】0163-82-2388 【Hours】Noon - 9:00 pm Water Sports on Rishiri Island For those looking for even more things to do on Rishiri Island, we recommend trying out marine activities, such as sea kayaking tours and SUP (Stand up paddleboarding) (video 13:20~). Photo：Sea kayaking, Rishiri Island, Hokkaido Surrounded by the sea, Rishiri Island features many surfing spots that can be enjoyed by beginners and advanced surfers alike, making it a popular surfing spot in Japan. Photo：Surfing, Rishiri Island, Hokkaido Rishiri Yu-Yu Running, a Popular Marathon Around the Island Rishiri Yu-Yu Running is a 53.67-km (33.3 mile) round-the-island marathon that can be completed in less than 10 hours. It's a popular event with a course that allows participants to enjoy views of the sea and Mt. Rishiri during their run. Around June, when the event is held, the average temperature is a comfortable 13°C to 15°C (55°F to 59°F), making it a pleasant race. After working up a sweat while enjoying nature, you'll receive a hot spring ticket useable at Rishirifuji Onsen, and transportation will be provided so that you can relax in the hot springs after the marathon. Photo：Rishiri Yu-Yu Running marathon, Rishiri Island, Hokkaido Hiking on Mt. Rishiri – A Climbing Guide for Beginners and Advanced Climbers Photo：Rishiri Fuji (Mt. Rishiri), Rishiri Island, Hokkaido Mt. Rishiri, the northernmost of Japan's "100 Famous Japanese Mountains," stands at 1,721 meters (5,646 feet) above sea level in the center of Rishiri Island. Although its official name is Mt. Rishiri, it's often called Rishiri Fuji (not to be confused with the town Rishirifuji) for its beautifully conical silhouette reminiscent of Mt. Fuji. It's also known for its abundance of alpine flora, many of which are unique to this area. The Oshidomari Hiking Trail is a well-maintained trail, so beginners can hike up the mountain with relative ease. That being said, it's a 5-to-6-hour ascent and a 3-to-4-hour descent, making it an all-day affair, so it's recommended that those who are not confident in their stamina do not attempt the hike. The greatest attraction of this day-long climb up Mt. Rishiri is the view from the summit. Rishiri Island itself is a mountain, and the summit offers an amazing panoramic view of the island. The view can only be seen by those who reach the summit of Mt. Rishiri, but it's well worth the climb. Climbing Season: June to September Photo：Remaining snow on Rishiri Fuji (Mt. Rishiri) ・Early June The average temperature at the summit in early June is 6.4°C (43.5°F), and crampons may be required at the summit due to lingering snow ・Early July The average temperature at the summit in early July is 9°C to 12°C (48.2°F to 53.6°F); and crowds and congestion often occur during the peak of climbing tour season. ・Late August - Early September In late August and early September, the minimum temperature can drop below freezing, so be sure to bring cold weather gear. During the climbing season, it's warm with alpine plants in full bloom, and the carpet of flowers that spreads across the mountain has earned led to it being recognized as one of the best places to see mountain flowers in Japan. Mt. Rishiri Hiking Trails Mt. Rishiri is a popular climbing spot visited by about 10,000 climbers annually, and there are two hiking trails located on the mountain: the Oshidomari Hiking Trail and the Kutsugata Hiking Trail. It's recommended that you start with the Oshidomari Hiking Trail, which is appropriate for beginners and intermediate hikers. There was a third trail, the former Oniwaki Hiking Trail, but it has been closed due to hazards. Oshidomari Hiking Trail (Beginner - Intermediate Hiking Trail) The trailhead is about 60 minutes on foot from Oshidomari Port at Rishiri Hokuroku Campsite (利尻北麓野営場) where there is also a hiking trail for Mt. Pon (ポン山, Pon Yama). Since there are no buses running early in the morning, care must be taken when going to the trailhead. It's best to find a guest house that can provide transportation to the trailhead. At the 3rd station, you'll find Kanro Sensui (甘露泉水) (video 9:59), the only source of water on Mt. Rishiri, which has been selected as one of Japan's 100 Remarkable Waters. The water from Kanro Sensui, which is subsoil water from Mt. Rishiri, is characterized by its mild sweetness. It's an oasis for climbers of Mt. Rishiri to quench their thirst. From the 5th station, the trail continues gently uphill through the trees, but from the 6th station, the incline gradually increases. From the 9th station, the trail converges with the Kutsugata Hiking Trail, and the footholds on the way to the summit become worse, so ropes are placed at dangerous spots. Kutsugata Hiking Trail (Advanced Hiking Trail) The Kutsugata Hiking Trail is shorter than the Oshidomari Hiking Trail, but is more difficult due to its steeper incline and is therefore recommended for advanced climbers. The trailhead is located at the Mikaeridai Park, approximately 500 meters (1,640 ft) above sea level, and the trailhead is the 5th station. After the 8th station, the incline increases toward Mt. Sancho (三眺山), and the difficulty persists beyond this point. From the 9th station, the trail converges with the Oshidomari Hiking Trail. By having a veteran guide or a guide with expertise accompanying you, you can enjoy hiking with peace of mind while receiving advice on climbing etiquette and route selection, as well as an explanation of the alpine flora. Photo：Hikers on Rishiri Fuji (Mt. Rishiri) Because the weather on Mt. Rishiri can change abruptly, windproof and waterproof jackets, warm innerwear, and a hat/helmet to protect your head are a must. In addition, non-slip hiking shoes are recommended for a safe ascent. The huts on Mt. Rishiri were built as refuge huts and are not lodging facilities, so they cannot be used for overnight stays and can only be used for napping or in the case of an emergency. As the number of climbers increases year after year, the alpine flora has been damaged by ill-mannered climbers who walk outside of the designated trails, trampling the alpine flora and reducing the size of the colonies. Trails near the summit are so bare that they crumble at the touch of a finger. Because of this, rules have been established on Mt. Rishiri to ensure that each and every climber behaves in a manner that is respectful of the natural environment. Mt. Rishiri Climbing Rules 1. Use portable toilets 2. Use rubber tips on hiking poles (to prevent damage to vegetation) 3. Do not sit or step on the vegetation Please follow these rules and enjoy a safe and enjoyable climb up Mt. Rishiri. The Best Foods on Rishiri Island The Mouthwatering Sea Urchin of Rishiri Island Photo：Rishiri Island sea urchin, Hokkaido Rishiri Island is known not only for its tourist attractions and spectacular natural scenery, but also for its mouthwatering seafood. The smooth texture and unique flavor of the locally caught sea urchin is to die for! It's a treat for any foody traveling to Japan! Sea urchin caught locally in Rishirifuji is one of the most highly regarded gastronomic delicacies in all of Japan thanks to the depth of its flavor. Its sweet and rich flavor are truly unforgettable. After you've tried it, you'll be craving a second helping. What makes the sea urchin of Rishiri Island so exquisite you ask? The reason for this is that the waters around Rishiri Island are rich in nutrients caused by the collision of warm and cold currents. In addition, the sea urchins grow on high-grade Rishiri Kombu kelp, which is rich in nutrients from the undersea spring water flowing from Mt. Rishiri. Approximately 40% of all domestic sea urchins in Japan are caught in Hokkaido. Rishiri Island is home to two species of sea urchin, called "nona" and "ganze," and sea urchin fishing is regulated to maintain the population. Photo：Left: ganze sea urchin, Right: nona sea urchin The opening of the season for the sea urchins differs, with the opening of the season for ganze sea urchins being June 1 and the opening of the season for nona sea urchins being on June 10. Both are in season until the end of August and have a mellow flavor. Nona sea urchins have short spines on the outside and are dark orange inside. They are much rarer and more valuable than ganze sea urchins because of their rich and delicious flavor and sweetness. On the other hand, the ganze sea urchin has long, purplish spines, is larger than the nona sea urchin, and is characterized by its elegant sweetness. Photo：Ganze and nona sea urchin bowl In Rishirifuji, you can enjoy sea urchin bowls with either one of the two types of sea urchin, or a combined seafood bowl where you can compare their flavor. Sea urchin is made with the food additive "alum" (ミョウバン, "myouban" in Japanese) to keep it clean longer, but it causes bitterness and spoils the original taste of the sea urchin. Therefore, please try to find sea urchin that does not contain alum. From 26:51 in the video, you can see the woman traveling to Rishiri Island eating two kinds of fresh sea urchin. Photo：Rishirifuji Sea Urchin Festival, Rishiri Island, Hokkaido Rishirifuji also hosts an annual event in which the sea urchin plays a leading role. The Rishirifuji Sea Urchin Festival (うにうにフェスティバル) is held every year on August 11 at the Rishirifuji Community Center parking lot. Photo：Grilled nona sea urchin, Rishiri Island, Hokkaido At the food and beverage corner, you can find grilled sea urchin, sea urchin bowls, sea urchin soup, and fresh scallops and octopus caught in Rishiri. The Sea Urchin Cracking Contest (ウニむき大会) for elementary school students and the Sea Urchin Speed-eating Contest (ウニの早食い大会) are just a few of the local events that make for a day full of sea urchin fun. Kamui Kaigan Park also organizes a sea urchin fishing experience (video 24:30). You can crack open the sea urchin you've caught yourself and enjoy them as fresh as they come! For those residing in Japan, Rishiri Island's sea urchin is also a Furusato Nozei (Hometown Tax) tax return gift, so you can enjoy fresh sea urchin from Rishiri Island anywhere in Japan by utilizing this system. Rishiri Island, a Treasure Trove of Seafood Delicacies In addition to sea urchin, Rishiri Island also offers a variety of must-try seafood delicacies that you don't want to miss! If you're a seafood lover, be sure to try scallops, mackerel, Hokkai Shrimp, Rishiri Kombu kelp, and more. Photo：Butter baked scallops From 37:37 in the video, you can see some of the delicious seafood dishes at an izakaya. Popular Souvenirs on Rishiri Island If you're looking to commemorate your trip to Rishiri Island, there are a number of souvenirs you can purchase to do so. You can find various souvenirs made from Rishiri Kombu, a famous, dried kelp made locally on Rishiri Island. Here, we'll introduce some popular souvenirs made using Rishiri Kombu. Rishiri Kombu Soy Sauce This soy sauce is made using the famous Rishiri Kombu. It has a deep flavor and brings out the best in the ingredients it's paired with. Rishiri Kombu Ramen This popular ramen, which has even been featured on tv, has noodles kneaded with Rishiri Kombu and an exquisite, flavorful broth. In addition, there are many other souvenirs, such as cup soup, kombu sake, and authentic shochu (a distilled Japanese liquor) with which you can enjoy the delicious flavors of Rishiri. Souvenirs can be purchased at the stores in the ferry terminal of Oshidomari Port. Be sure to keep an eye out for them! Photo：Various souvenirs using Rishiri Kombu, Rishiri Island, Hokkaido How to Get to Rishiri Island Rishiri Island can be accessed by air or ferry. Here is how you can get to Rishiri Island. How to Get to Rishiri Island by Airplane There are two routes to Rishiri Island by plane. Both flights are once-a-day, round trip flights and are approximately 50 minutes long. ◎ New Chitose Airport → Rishiri Airport: Approximately 50 min. ◎ Sapporo Okadama Airport → Rishiri Airport: Approximately 50 min. Please note that flights from New Chitose Airport are only available during the summer season (June to September). Photo：Rishiri Airport, Rishiri Island, Hokkaido How to Get to Rishiri Island by Ferry To get to Rishiri Island via ferry, it's a 1 hour and 40-to-50-minute ride from Wakkanai (Wakkanai Ferry Terminal) to Oshidomari Ferry Terminal on Rishiri Island. Fares vary by seat when using the ferry. [2nd Class Cabin] 2,770 yen - Carpeted open space [1st Class Island View Seat] 5,400 yen - All windows have a view of the ocean and you can enjoy views of both Mt. Rishiri and Rebun Island. [Special Rooms] 20,000 yen - Small private rooms for families and groups. In addition, there are kids' rooms and a baby room collaborating with Pokémon, the first of its kind in the ferry industry, equipped with diaper changing sheets, so that passengers with small children can enjoy the cruise with peace of mind. ※Fees current as of June 2023. Since this is a ferry, cars, motorcycles, bicycles, etc. can be transported as well, so you can visit Rishiri Island and travel around as you please. Please check the Heart Land Ferry official website for information regarding fares, rates, timetables, etc. Inside Oshidomari Ferry Terminal, there is a tourist information center, souvenir shops, and restaurants open for lunch where you can enjoy the flavors of Rishiri Island, including fresh sea urchin bowls and Rishiri ramen, so be sure to drop in and grab a bite to eat here. Photo：Wakkanai Ferry Terminal - Oshidomari Ferry Terminal, Heartland Ferry An Unforgettable Travel Experience Awaits You on Rishiri Island! When traveling to Rishiri Island, a place full of attractions, we recommend a course that will take you around the entire island. In addition to renting a bicycle, you can also rent mopeds and cars, or utilize buses and taxis. Rishirifuji also offers a variety of lodging facilities, including hotels, minshuku (Japanese-style bed and breakfasts), and campgrounds, so you can choose the one that best fits your travel style and budget. Don't forget to utilize the hot springs to relax after a long day of traveling as well! A trip to Rishiri Island guarantees an unforgettable adventure with delicious seafood and beautiful natural scenery. At the end of the video at 43:19, we can see the words of the woman, and the captions read: I'll come visit you again... My favorite place... Rishiri Island A trip to Rishiri Island will no doubt leave you feeling the same. The spectacular natural scenery, fresh seafood, and the hospitality of the local people make each and every encounter on Rishiri Island a deep and irreplaceable experience. We invite you to leave behind the hustle and bustle of the city and travel to northern Japan for a chance to experience the wealth that is Rishiri Island. Photo：A ferry send off at Oshidomari Ferry Terminal We hope you enjoyed this Rishiri Island Travel guide! Be sure to use it for your trip to Rishiri Island! .caption-heading-2 { font-weight: bold; font-size: 1.7rem; margin-bottom: 15px; max-width: 800px; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; margin-top: 60px; } .mod-article-caption .caption-text { margin-bottom: 40px; } .caption-information-table { background-color: #efefef; margin-top: -20px; margin-bottom: 50px; padding: 20px; border-radius: 8px; width: 90%; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; } @media screen and (max-width: 1024px) { .caption-information-table { width: 95%; padding: 30px 15px 30px 15px; } } .caption-heading-table .caption-text li { line-height: 2.5rem; margin-top: 1.3rem; } .mod-article-caption .caption-heading { position: relative; border-left: 5px solid #ff1300; padding-left: 10px; margin-top: 60px; } .mod-article-caption .caption-text { margin-bottom: 50px; } .mod-article-caption .caption-heading-table { width: 95%; padding: 30px 15px 1px 15px; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; } .caption-heading-table ul{ counter-reset: listnum; /* カウンターをリセット */ list-style: none; /* 標準のスタイルは消す */ } .caption-heading-table ul.list-style-number-jp>li{ margin-left: 1.1em; text-indent: -1.1em; font-weight: bold; } .caption-heading-table ul.list-style-number-jp>li::before{ counter-increment: listnum; /* counter-resetと同じ文字列 */ content: counter(listnum); /* カウントした数に応じて番号を表示 */ content: counter(listnum) ". "; } /*.list-style-dot { list-style: "↓"; }*/ .list-style-dot>li::before{ content:"↓ "; } .list-style-dot>li { padding-left: 1.8rem; margin-left: 1.1em; text-indent: -1.1em; line-height: 2rem !important; margin-top: 1rem !important; }

Scuba Diving Video Introduction to "Hatsushima" in Atami City, Shizuoka Prefecture, where you can meet dolphins. This video, titled "Scuba Diving Diving with Dolphins on Hatsushima" (スキューバダイビング 初島でイルカとダイビング), was uploaded by "Sazanami Marine Diving School." Hatsushima is known as a marine resort that can be visited on a day trip. It takes about 40 minutes from Tokyo to Atami by Shinkansen, and about 30 minutes by boat from Atami Port to Hatsushima. Dolphins on Hatsushima Photo：Dolphins on Hatsushima Scuba diving on Hatsushima can be enjoyed throughout the year, regardless of the season. Starting in around 2018, two southern bottlenose dolphins took up residence on Hatsushima, becoming very popular among scuba divers. Various stores now offer one-day tours of Hatsushima where you can dive with the dolphins. However, the two dolphins disappeared from the island in the summer of 2020 and were no longer seen. Some divers who had been looking forward to seeing the dolphins were disappointed. Luckily, in 2022, the two dolphins returned to Hatsushima, leading to many people expressing their joy online. Being able to meet friendly wild dolphins in the ocean is an incredible experience! In the video, you can see how the dolphins swim from up close. Scuba Diving on Hatsushima! Things to Keep In Mind When Swimming With Dolphins Photo：Dolphins on Hatsushima Once it became known that two friendly dolphins were living around Hatsushima, recreational scuba diving, experience diving, etc., became incredibly popular. One spot where you can dive with the dolphins is Nishimato (ニシマト). When swimming with dolphins, you may be tempted to try and pet them, but there are rules to keep in mind when scuba diving. -Do not chase the dolphins -No lights or strobes -Do not bring objects that beep or ring -Do not touch the dolphins Please keep these rules in mind when scuba diving in order to protect the dolphins The Waters Surrouding Hatsushima – Transparency, Temperature, Etc. Water temperature and transparency are the main things to keep in mind when diving on Hatsushima. The Hatsushima Diving Center updates the sea conditions almost daily on their Facebook page. The water temperature in early June is approximately 19 to 21 degrees Celsius (66-70°F). The transparency of course depends on the weather and sea conditions, but it's generally around 12 to 15 meters. The Various Marine Life Near Hatsushima Photo：Bullhead sharks on Hatsushima Dolphins aren't the only thing to look forward to when scuba diving on Hatsushima. At the diving spot Futatsune, you can see a variety of sea creatures, including large schools of knifefish and grunts, as well as angel sharks, guitarfish, and bullhead sharks. The area is also home to many microorganisms, including Izu's very popular harlequin shrimp, the warty frogfish, and the harlequin ghost pipefish. Cute creatures such as the painted frogfish, the spotfin frogfish, and the pikachu nudibranch also inhabit the area, adding to the fun of scuba diving. Beginner-Level Scuba Diving Experience Fees on Hatsushima After watching the video, you might be looking to try scuba diving. The good news is you don't need to have a license! During the diving experiences on Hatsushima, you'll be briefed on how to handle diving equipment, basic techniques, such as breathing techniques, and pressure equalization before you dive, so you can enjoy safely scuba diving with an instructor. The video creator, Sazanami Marine Diving School, offers a course called "Hatsushima Day Trip Experience Diving with Transportation from Shibuya" (渋谷から送迎付き初島日帰り体験ダイビング). Fee: 23,000 yen (tax included) (Included in the fee: transportation from Shibuya to the dive site, rental of a set of diving equipment, one experience dive, a local facility fee, and consumption tax) Being able to scuba dive with transportation from Tokyo makes it super convenient. It's a great way to experience the waters of Hatsushima! Scuba Diving Is Even More Fun With a License! Photo：Scuba diving Scuba diving is a marine activity in which you carry a tank filled with air on your back for breathing and enjoy the underwater world. With a license, you can dive not only on Hatsushima, but also at other diving spots around the world. With a license, you can enjoy diving freely without an instructor. Diving as a sport or profession, such as technical diving, free diving, and commercial diving, is also possible with a license. Scuba diving is a marine activity that even beginners can experience. However, if you're afraid of suddenly being underwater, you can also start from the beach; this is called a beach dive. Also, if you record information such as where you dived and the sea conditions in a log book, your instructor can give you advice on the best dive sites for your level. How to Get to Hatsushima The only way to get to Hatsushima is via ferry from Atami Port. The high-speed ferries head to and from Hatsushima 10 times a day. The ferries take 30 minutes to reach Hatsushima from Atami Port. Their fees are as follows: Atami/Hatsushima Ferry Fees Adults (Round trip): 2,800 yen Adults (One way): 1,400 yen Children (Round trip): 1,400 yen Children (One way): 700 yen For information about ferry schedules, please check out the official website for Hatsushima. Other Things to Do on Hatsushima Because Hatsushima is rather small there isn't a ton of other attractions on the island. However, Because Atami is only 30 minutes from Hatsushima via ferry, we'll introduce some things to do near Atami Port as well. Sarutobi (Hatsushima) Sarutobi is an adventure park with where visitors put on a harness and enjoy a massive jungle gym full of ziplines and nets. You can spend an hour walking through the tree tops! Hours: Hours vary by day. Please check the official website for more information. Closed: Most Thursdays. Please check the official website for more information. Admission Fee: Admission Fee: Adults (junior high school students and older): 1,900 yen, Children (Ages 5 through elementary school): 1,500 yen Atami Castle (Atami Port) Atami Castle is a popular tourist attraction in Atami, Shizuoka. Atami Castle is not actually a historic castle, and was built as recently as 1959. Located atop a small mountain, visitors can enjoy spectacular views of Atami from the top of the castle. Hours: 9:00 am - 5:00 pm (Last entry 4:30 pm) Admission Fee: Adults: 1,100 yen, Elementary and junior high school students: 600 yen, Children ages 3-6: 450 yen ※Discounts are available for those that buy a combined ticket for Atami Castle and Atami Trick Art Museum. Atami Trick Art Museum (Atami Port) The Atami Trick Art Museum is full of illusory artworks meant to trick visitors into seeing something that isn't real. There are a lot of fun works inside the museum and you can enjoy taking pictures and solving how each of them works. Hours: 9:00 am - 5:00 pm (4:30 pm) Admission Fee: Adults: 1,100 yen, Elementary and junior high school students: 600 yen, Children ages 3-6: 450 yen ※Discounts are available for those that buy a combined ticket for Atami Castle and Atami Trick Art Museum. Summary of Hatsushima, a Scuba Diving and Resort Spot in Shizuoka Prefecture Photo：Hatsushima, Shizuoka Prefecture Hatsushima is the most popular resort within close proximity to the Tokyo metropolitan area, and is a place where you can enjoy scuba diving with dolphins. Although you're not guaranteed to be able to meet the dolphins, you can still see a wide variety of unique marine life in the waters surrounding Hatsushima! 【TripAdvisor】Hatsushima

Scuba Diving in the Bright Blue Waters of the Amami Islands, a Look at the Scuba Diving Mecca of Japan This video, titled "Tokunoshima, Amami Islands Scuba Diving in 3 Minutes" (奄美群島 徳之島 ダイビング動画3分), was uploaded by "kamuivision." It introduces scuba diving around Tokunoshima in Japan's Amami Islands. This article will introduce scuba diving in the Amami Islands alongside the video. The video will introduce actual underwater footage of the Amami Islands, including various footage of the marine life found in the area. From schools of fish and jawfish to whales and cuttlefish the Amami Islands are full of marine life, so be sure to check out the video as you read on! Scuba Diving in the Amami Islands! Explore the Geography and Charm of the Fascinating Tourist Destination! Photo：Cape Kanami Observation Deck, Tokunoshima, Amami Islands In 2019, before the Corona pandemic, scuba diving was becoming more and more attractive in Japan, mainly due to the 2019 Marine Diving Fair, a massively successful event that took place in Tokyo. The city of Amami, located in the Amami Islands just halfway between Kagoshima and Okinawa, is classified as a remote island and is part of Amami Oshima. Scuba diving is the backbone of the city's tourism industry and is incredibly popular, especially among those traveling to the Amami Islands from outside of Japan. The main cities of Kagoshima's Amami Islands include Tokunoshima, Isen, and Amagi. Amagi, one of the hubs in the Amami Islands, is a relatively large town with hotels, an airport, stores, and other tourist facilities, making it easily accessible to large numbers of travelers. It's a small town with a population of around 6,000, but it closely resembles a resort area and is supported by tourists visiting on tours. It has a subtropical climate, which is a rarity in Japan, and is relatively warm all year round due to its karst topography. The island is home to many rare flora and fauna, including the habu, a variety of venomous pit viper, and is rich in natural heritage. Photo：A coral table at Amami Oshima During summer, the best season to experience scuba diving in the blue waters, the area is very popular. In addition to scuba diving, you can also dive from the islands' dive sites and even enjoy snorkeling experiences as well. As shown in the video, the Amami Islands are a unique and wonderful place where you can see sea turtles, stingrays, manta rays, coral reefs, and other marine life in the beautiful, clear blue waters. In the video, you can see sea turtles at 0:57, stingrays at 1:57, manta rays at 2:25, and whales of remarkable size at 2:41. All of the fish swim gracefully and magnificently in the ocean, delighting the viewer, and visitors to the islands, with their beauty. Learn More About the Nature of the Amami Islands! Photo：Innojofuta on Tokunoshima The Amami Islands are extremely attractive for their various natural heritages. The nature has been carefully preserved via the "Happa Green Product." On Tokunoshima, the heart of the Amami Islands, there is a place where you can watch a bullfight called "Tokunoshima Nakusami Kan" (Tokunoshima Bullfighting Hall). Looking out to the sea, visitors will be overwhelmed by the natural heritages, such as Boma Heart (母間ハート), a heart-shaped hole in a rock, Innojofuta (犬の門蓋), with its sloping stone walls that form arches, and the Mushiroze (ムシロ瀬), a beautiful granite coastline, and other natural heritages found in nature. Unbuki Underground Seawater Cave, a natural sea inside the land, is another attraction for those feeling adventurous to explore. Tomori Beach in the northern part of Amami Oshima is also unique. The coral cluster "Daibutsu Sango" (大仏サンゴ) is the largest leaf coral cluster in Japan and is said to be an underwater miracle. If you go to the southern part of Amami Oshima, you'll find a jungle-like virgin mangrove forest. A canoe ride through the primeval forest makes you feel like you're in a theme park and is an experience you'll never forget. Summary of the Fascinating Nature of the Amami Islands, a Place of Scuba Diving and Endless Adventure! As you can see in the video, there are many notable natural features and fascinating spots in the Amami Islands. Scuba diving is a recommended activity where you can feel the beauty of the Amami Islands through your own skin. Be sure to check out the video to get a better idea of what you can expect to experience when scuba diving! Consider a visit to the Amami Islands, a tropical location in Kagoshima! 【TripAdvisor】Amami Oshima https://www.tripadvisor.com/Tourism-g14769233-Amami_Oshima_Kagoshima_Prefecture_Kyushu-Vacations.html

Video introduction of "Hoshitoge Rice Terraces" in Tokamachi, Niigata Prefecture This video, titled "[4K] [Original Scenery of Japan] Rice Terraces at Hoshitoge, Tokamachi, Niigata Prefecture" ([4K]【日本の原風景】新潟県十日町星峠の棚田。雲海と光芒。), was uploaded by "KYODO NEWS." In the video, you can see footage of the Hoshitoge Rice Terraces, which were selected by foreign tourists as the #1 bucket list view in Japan. The reflections on the water-filled rice fields and the sea of clouds that looks different throughout the day are captured in this beautiful 4K video. You can't help but be moved by these views. The video is accompanied by closed captions with tourist information, so be sure to turn them on while watching the video! Rice Fields in Japan Cultivation of rice fields in Japan is believed to have started during the Yayoi Period (300 BC - 250 AD). Rice has played an important role in the history of Japan, and has even been used historically as currency by farmers to pay taxes. Today, rice is a staple food in Japan, and while the exact number of rice fields in Japan is not known, according to the Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries, rice paddies account for 5.85 million acres of land. With Japan having a total landmass of 93.4 million acres, this means that more than 6% of Japan is rice paddies. Despite rice fields being made to grow rice, there are many places in Japan where you can see rice field art, such as Saitama and Aomori prefectures. The use of different colors of rice allows farmers to create incredible images inside the fields. Some other famous rice fields in Japan where you can see breathtaking views include the Shiroyone Senmaida Rice Terraces of Ishikawa Prefecture, the Maruyama Senmaida Rice Terraces of Mie Prefecture, and many more. Terraced rice fields prevent erosion, runoff, flooding, and other undesirable conditions, which is why they are often used in rice farming. Furthermore, they help nurture the land by allowing the water in the fields to slowly seep back into the ground, replenishing the groundwater. What Are the Hoshitoge Rice Terraces? Discover the Beautiful Scenery of Tokamachi, Niigata Photo：The Hoshitoge Rice Terraces of Tokamachi, Niigata Located in Tokamachi, Niigata, in Japan's Koshin'etsu region, the Hoshitoge Rice Terraces, numbering some 200 paddies, are spread across the hillside. Among the terraced rice fields scattered throughout the region, the Hoshitoge Rice Terraces are considered exceptionally beautiful. Depending on the weather and time of year, a sea of clouds and mirror-like water can also be seen at the rice terraces, making this a popular tourist spot with a variety of views. The Hoshitoge Rice Terraces have attracted attention both in Japan and overseas, as they were featured in the opening scene of NHK's historical drama "Tenchijin" (Heart of a Samurai) in 2009, and was recognized as a Japanese heritage that transcends borders by the Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries in 2022. The Hoshitoge Rice Terraces, a place where you can view the beautiful landscapes of Japan, are historic terraced rice fields created by the residents of Hoshitoge village more than 300 years ago. The area, including the village, has been selected as one of the "Top 100 Villages in Japan," and is one of Japan's leading scenic attractions. The Best Season to Visit the Hoshitoge Rice Terraces Photo：A sea of clouds over the Hoshitoge Rice Terraces, Tokamachi, Niigata One of the highlights of Hoshitoge Rice Terraces is the breathtakingly beautiful sea of clouds and mirror-like pools of water covering the fields. Unfortunately, the sea of clouds and mirror-like pools can only be seen during certain times of the year and under certain conditions. In addition, in order to capture the beautiful scenery in photographs, it's important to know in advance the best places to take photographs, so be sure to check before you visit. The best seasons for seeing a sea of clouds is during spring (late June) and autumn (mid-September). During these seasons, a sea of clouds is more likely to occur, and photographers from all over Japan flock to the area to enjoy the spectacular view. On the other hand, the best season for viewing the mirror-like pools is spring (around May to June) and autumn (around October to November). If you want to see both a sea of clouds and the mirror-like pools, be sure to visit in June. However, whether or not you can see a sea of clouds and a water mirror depends entirely on luck. The view in front of you will change depending on the conditions of the day. You will need some luck to take a good picture. However, if the conditions are right, you will be able to see a glowing sea of clouds or a scene enveloped in fog, and you will be able to capture a miraculous shot. Spring, Summer, Fall & Winter: Seasonal Views at the Hoshitoge Rice Terraces Photo：The Hoshitoge Rice Terraces covered in snow, Tokamachi, Niigata The Hoshitoge Rice Terraces are a beautiful sight in each of Japan's four seasons. In addition to the popular sea of clouds and mirror-like pools, you can enjoy colorful cherry blossoms in spring. In the summer, the rice terraces turn a deep green color and contrast with the bright blue sky. In autumn, the ears of rice shimmer with a golden glow, and in winter snow takes the place of water, creating a unique scene of pools of white snow. That being said, cars and motorcycles are unable to access the rice terraces when the snow gets too deep, and you may not be able to visit the rice fields during the winter. The Hoshitoge Rice Terraces also offer a different view during the daytime and at night. In particular, at sunrise and sunset, you can enjoy a beauty that is beyond words, no matter what season you visit in. Summary of the Hoshitoge Rice Terraces The Hoshitoge Rice Terraces are one of the most famous scenic views in Japan. It's a bucket list location, so if you're interested in visiting, we highly recommend adding it to your Niigata travel itinerary! To get to the Hoshitoge Rice Terraces in Tokamachi, Niigata, take the train to Matsudai Station and from there, it's about 20 minutes by taxi. For details on parking and directions, please check here. The rice terraces in Tokamachi, Niigata, including the Hoshitoge Rice Terraces, are not designed for the purpose of sightseeing. They are agricultural land that local people have inherited from their ancestors and carefully preserved. They are also private plots of land where farmers still cultivate rice. In addition to not entering the terraces, it's strictly prohibited to interfere with farm vehicles, take unauthorized photographs of farm work, or leave trash in the terraces. Please enjoy the spectacular scenery while observing proper manners and abiding by the rules. 【TripAdvisor】Hoshitoge Rice Terraces

Video Introduction to the Kakita River, a Mysterious Clear Stream Rare in Japan, Located in Sunto-gun, Shizuoka Prefecture This video, titled "Explore the Enchanting Crystal Waters of Kakita River with 8KVR!!!" (『静岡県清水町』が制作の『神秘の清流 柿田川 〜8KVRで体験！空中散歩と絶景癒しスポット〜） was uploaded by "Shimizu, Shizuoka" (静岡県清水町). The Kakita River is Japan's shortest Class 1 river, one of the three clearest rivers in Japan along with the Nagara River and the Shimanto River, and is fed by spring water from Mt. Fuji. In 1985, the Kakita River was selected as one of the "100 Famous Bodies of Waters" by the Kakita River Spring Group because of the purity of its water. Be sure to take a look at the beautiful 8K VR video of the clear stream created by the spring water from Mt. Fuji. The Kakita River, a Clear Stream Filled With Spring Water From Mt. Fuji! Photo：Spring water at Kakita River Park The Kakita River is a Class 1 river in the Kano River system located in Shimizu, Shizuoka, in Japan's Tokai Region. It boasts the largest volume of spring water in Japan, and most of the water in the Kakita River is spring water from melting snow and rainwater from Mt. Fuji that seeps into the Mishima lava flow. It is one of the most unique rivers in Japan. It is one of the three clearest rivers in Japan and is also designated as a Natural Monument by the government of Japan in the category of geological minerals. The Kakita River stays at a cool 15°C throughout the year, with a constant volume, allowing the Mishima Baikamo, an underwater plant unique to rivers, to grow in abundance, nurturing a rich natural environment that provides comfort to the local people. At one time, factories moved into the area to exploit the abundant spring water, and the deteriorating quality of the water made it uninhabitable for fish. However, thanks to the efforts of the local people to improve the water quality and protect the habitat for kingfishers and various fish, the Kakita River continues to flow as a clear and transparent stream. What Gives the Kakita River Its Blue Color? Photo：Spring water at Kakita River Park Kakita River Park is located upstream of the Kakita River. Originally the ruins of Izumigashira Castle built by Hojo Ujiyasu, a daimyo known as "The Lion of Sagami," this historic place is home to one of the most photogenic spots on the Kakita River. The "Wakima," is one of the sources of the Kakita River and can be seen from the observation deck of Kakita River Park. This place was originally used as a well by a nearby factory. The blue-colored source seen from the second observation deck is a mysterious beauty and has become quite popular on Japanese social media. The Kakita River spring water appears blue because of the water's ability to absorb red light. The deeper the water gets, the bluer it becomes. The color of the spring water changes slightly depending on the season, weather, and time of day, but the deepest and most beautiful blue can be seen in the mornings during the summer. Highlights of Kakita River Park Photo：Kifune Shrine at Kakita River Park, Shizuoka In addition to the Wakima, you can also enjoy a picnic at Kakita River Park! You can rent a picnic set at the Shimizu Town Tourist Information Center "Wakura Kakita River" and have a picnic without having to bring your own equipment. You can also rent equipment for activities such as badminton, dodgeball, and Othello/Reversi. Kakita River Park is located in the town of Shimizu in Sunto Ward, not Shimizu Ward, so be sure not to mix them up if you plan on visiting! Kifune Shrine, famous for boosting one's luck in love, is located in Kakita River Park. This shrine is a branch of Kibune Shrine in Kyoto and is dedicated to the god of water, but it has become known as a shrine for praying for love. On the approach to the shrine, there is a stone monument, and touching the stone shaped like a rice ball is said to bring good luck. There is also a mizu-mikuji (water fortune) that when placed in water makes the characters appear, making it a popular power spot for couples and those seeking love. Restaurants Near the Kakita River Photo：Tofu cuisine at Kitchen Kawasemi There are a variety of restaurants and cafes near the Kakita River. At the roadside stop Yusui no Michi (湧水の道), adjacent to Kakita River Park, you can find Kitchen Kawasemi (キッチンかわせみ) and Shokuji-dokoro Kawasemi Honkan (食事処かわせみ本館) where you can enjoy tofu dishes using fresh spring water from the Kakita River. At Kitchen Kawasemi, you can enjoy cold tofu and yuba (tofu skin) the freshest wasabi. Coffee brewed with spring water from the Kakita River is also available. Shokuji-dokoro Kawasemi Honkan offers a kominka (traditional Japanese home) experience, with reservations given priority. Here, the serve bento boxed lunches with a choice of either hot tofu or cold tofu made the famous spring water from the area. Also nearby is a store where you can purchase tofu ice cream, firm or soft tofu made spring water, green rice crackers, and coffee beans called Kakitagawa Yusui Blend (柿田川湧水ブレンド). Stop by after a stroll in Kakita River Park! A Brief Overview of Shimizu, Shizuoka Shizuoka Prefecture is the 10th largest prefecture in Japan based on population (3.5 million), and is located 1 hour from Tokyo and Nagoya via shinkansen (bullet train). Shimizu is a small town located in northeastern Shizuoka with a population of just 32,000. It's close to both the sea and mountains and even hot springs. Summary of the Mysteriously Clear Kakita River The Kakita River is one of the smallest rivers in Japan, at approximately 1.2 km long. However, it's so transparent that it is one of the three clearest rivers in Japan. The blue spring water gushing up from the earth, which can be seen from the second observatory in Kakita River Park, is a popular, photogenic spot. Kakita River Park is also a sightseeing spot where families can enjoy picnics and outdoor activities during the spring and fall. Nearby is Sun to Moon Kakitagawa, a large commercial facility that includes a movie theater and a shopping mall. When sightseeing in Shizuoka Prefecture, be sure to stop by Shimizu! 【TripAdvisor】Kakita River Park

Introducing Susukino Oiran Dochu at the Susukino Festival in Sapporo, Hokkaido This video, titled "Sapporo, Susukino Festival 2018 – Oiran Dochu" (札幌 すすきの祭り2018「すすきの花魁道中」 susukino oiran douchu), was uploaded by "Kita no Kuni Kamo" (北の国かも). It introduces Susukino Oiran Dochu, a popular sightseeing attraction and event in Hokkaido. Susukino Oiran Dochu is an annual event that takes place during the Susukino Festival held for three days in early August in Sapporo, Hokkaido. The history of the Susukino Festival dates back more than 55 years, to August 1965, when the first Susukino Festival was held. It is said to have originated from the Susukino Festival held in 1951. More About Susukino Oiran Dochu Photo：An oiran One of the historical events of the Susukino Festival in Sapporo, Hokkaido, is Susukino Oiran Dochu, a procession of courtesans that can be seen in the video. Susukino Oiran Dochu began in 1984 when nine courtesans from Asakusa, Tokyo were invited to perform in a commemorative event, and has since become a regular part of the Susukino Festival. The roles of the courtesans in the procession are chosen by the public, with each role having its own name. In addition to the servants and the proprietress, new courtesans also appear in the procession, recreating the red-light districts of the past. The child in the kimono walking behind the new courtesan is called a Kamuro. The courtesan procession can be seen from 0:57 in the video. The participants in the procession wear special costumes and geta to recreate the way people walked in the past. The Oiran of Susukino Oiran Dochu An oiran is a member of the upper class of courtesans in a red-light district. During the Edo period (1603-1868 A.D.), there were more than 2,000 courtesans, including those who served as sancha-joro (fairly high-ranking courtesans), zashiki-mochi, or yobidashi. Oiran Dochu is a procession of courtesans between the hikite-jaya (a guide to brothels) and the brothels themselves, and has been attracting attention since that time. During the courtesan procession, the courtesans slowly parade down the middle of the street in a very specific style, creating a captivating atmosphere. 70 Years of the Susukino Festival Photo：The Yosakoi Soran Festival in front of the Hokkaido Government Office, Sapporo The Susukino Festival started around 1965, when the Sapporo Tourist Association proposed a large-scale summer festival combining the Kappa Festival and the Susukino Festival in Jozankei, because they felt that a normal summer festival wasn't interesting enough. The Susukino Festival is a lively festival where many events have been held, such as the Miss Susukino contest, singing contests, and even beer drinking competitions. In addition, "Susukino Kota" (すすきの小唄) and "Susukino Ondo" (すすきの音頭) were performed, and the participants enjoyed singing and dancing at the festival. During the Susukino Festival, the central part of Susukino is turned into a pedestrian paradise. There are more than 100 food stalls and other vendors, and visitors you can enjoy eating and drinking local specialties from Hokkaido. In 1985, the Hokkai Festival Taiko Session was held, and taiko teams from all over Hokkaido performed a combined taiko drum performance. In addition, many other events are held, such as the Susukino Music Festival, a mikoshi (portable shrine) procession, Susukino Night Fever, Susukino Samba Carnival, women's mikoshi, hayashi performances, lion dances, Yosakoi Soran Festival, and even live concerts. [Susukino Festival Venue Information] Place: Sapporo Ekimae-dori Date: Three days in early August every year Main event: Oiran Dochu (courtesan procession) Organizer: Susukino Tourist Association Other Festivals in Sapporo, Hokkaido Photo：Mikoshi at the Hokkaido Shrine Festival In addition to the Susukino Festival, Sapporo City also holds the Hokkaido Shrine Festival (Sapporo Festival). The Hokkaido Shrine Festival (Sapporo Festival) has a history of more than 100 years and is held around Hokkaido Shrine and Nakajima Park. In addition, the Sapporo Summer Festival is lit up at night and attracts many visitors. There are also other festivals such as the Odori Fireworks Festival, making it a place where you can enjoy many festivals. The Sapporo Snow Festival, held in early February every year, is a festival of snow and ice, with several snow sculptures displayed in Odori Park and other venues, and is the largest festival in Hokkaido, attracting approximately 2 million visitors from all over Japan and overseas. Summary of Susukino's Oiran Dochu Oiran Dochu (courtesan procession) is the main event of the Susukino Festival held every summer in Sapporo, Hokkaido. As you can see in the video, the courtesans dressed in beautiful kimono walk through the streets of Sapporo with a variety of different assistants. The spectacle of the courtesan parading through the streets creates a fascinating atmosphere and is reminiscent of Japan's Edo Period. Be sure to check out the four-and-a-half-minute video to get an idea of what Oiran Dochu, the main event of Sapporo, Hokkaido's Susukino Festival, is all about.

Otaru Art Base and its Stained Glass Museum in Otaru, Hokkaido: Video introduction This video, titled "OTARU – Otaru Art Base and its Stained Glass Museum" (【小樽】小樽芸術村 ステンドグラス美術館), was uploaded by "Nichimen Auto System" (日免オートシステム). The Otaru Canal, one of the best tourist destinations in Hokkaido, has a nostalgic atmosphere. Otaru Art Base, composed of retro buildings on the banks of the canal, exhibits various arts and crafts from around the world. The Stained Glass Museum, formerly the Takahashi Warehouse, is one of the retro buildings along the canal. The video clip shows the priceless stained glass art that was actually used in old chapels in England from the late 19th century to the early 20th century. Enjoy the beautiful and solemn space of lights in the video, while pondering these historical artworks. Otaru Art Base – Utilizing Historical Buildings Photo：The Former Mitsui Bank Otaru Branch, Otaru Art Base, Otaru, Hokkaido Otaru, Hokkaido has been prospering as a gateway to Hokkaido thanks to its surrounding waters. Many financial and trading companies have been stationed here since around 1930, and developed the area as an economic center. Otaru Art Base was established in July 2016 in Otaru, Hokkaido by Nitori Group, a popular Japanese furniture retail company that originated in Hokkaido. Its operation has been managed by the Nitori Cultural Foundation since October 2020. Otaru Art Base has five historic buildings that were built in the early 20th century that include the former Arata Firm, the former Takahashi Warehouse, the former Mitsui Bank Otaru Branch, the former Hokkaido Takushoku Bank Otaru Branch, and the former Naniwa Warehouse. They display excellent pieces of art from both Japan and around the world. Because it utilizes historically valuable buildings in Otaru, both the exhibits and the architecture have outstanding value as a cultural heritages from the past. Highlights of Stained Glass Museum in Otaru Art Base Source :Yuzuki Mio's post: Image of God and the Glory of Great Britain The Stained Glass Museum is in the former Takahashi Warehouse, one of the buildings of the Otaru Art Base, displays stained glass that actually used to decorate chapel windows. The stained glass was crafted in England in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Unfortunately, many chapels in England have been demolished in recent years, but these works managed to survive and ended up in Japan by chance. Among many valuable works, it exhibits the stained-glass version of the famous artwork "The Last Supper" and "God and the Glory of Great Britain," which was produced to commemorate the victory and victims of World War I. [Video] 1:38 - God and the Glory of Great Britain [Video] 6:06 - The Last Supper The museum is full of the history of England. You can feel the flow of time up close through the figures and lettering on the stained glass artworks. [Video] 5:33 - God and the Glory of Great Britain Viewed From the 2nd Floor [Video] 6:00 - The Sower Highlights of the House of Western Art, Nitori Museum, and Former Mitsui Bank Otaru Branch in Otaru Art Base Photo：Nitori Museum, Otaru, Hokkaido In addition to the Stained Glass Museum, the Otaru Art Base also has House of Western Art, Nitori Museum, and the former Mitsui Bank Otaru Branch. Be careful as photography is prohibited is some of these buildings. Here, we'll introduce the highlights of each facility at Otaru Art Base and specific locations where photography is prohibited. ● House of Western Art The House of Western Art, which is the fourth museum in the Otaru Art Base, was just recently opened on April 28, 2022. The highlights are the stained glass produced in Europe and the United States from the late 19th century to the early 20th century, as well as Art Nouveau and Art Deco glass crafts. Photography is permitted here, but the flash photography, selfie sticks, and video recording are prohibited. ● Nitori Museum The Nitori Museum is in an old bank building. It has become a popular tourist spot with a large number of outstanding works, such as modern Japanese paintings and Western paintings. A must-see is the powerful stained glass by stained glass artist Louis C. Tiffany. You can take pictures of the stained glass exhibited at the entrance, but no other photography is permitted inside the building due to the presence of copyrighted works. ● Former Mitsui Bank Otaru Branch From the end of the Meiji Period to the beginning of the Showa Period, Otaru was called Northern Wall Street because it was extremely prosperous as an economic center. The building that symbolizes this prosperity is the Former Mitsui Bank Otaru Branch. This building has been designated as an Important Cultural Property. Highlights include the Renaissance-style masonry exterior, a beautiful plaster ceiling, and a safety deposit box and drawing room that give you a sense of the atmosphere of a bank at the time. Furthermore, be sure to check out the projection mapping that takes place every hour on the 1st floor. Photography is allowed in this building, but video recordings are prohibited. Admission Fees, Required Time for Otaru Art Base, and Reviews Photo：A woman looking at her phone Next, we'll go over admission fees, the time required to visit Otaru Art Base, and reviews. First, the Admission fee. We recommend the discount "Four Combined Museum Pass" ticket when visiting Otaru Art Base: 2,900 yen for adults, 2,000 yen for university students, 1,500 yen for high school students, 1,000 yen for junior high school students, and 500 yen for elementary school students. This ticket is cheaper than buying individual tickets for two museums. It's a great deal! Individual fees for the Stained Glass Museum are 1,000 yen for adults, 800 yen for university students, 600 yen for high school students, 500 yen for junior high school students, and 300 yen for elementary school students. Individual fees for the former Mitsui Bank Otaru Branch are 700 yen for adults, 500 yen for university students, 400 yen for high school students, 300 yen for junior high school students, and 200 yen for elementary school students. Individual fees for either the Nitori Museum or the House of Western Art are 1,500 yen for adults, 1,000 yen for university students, 700 yen for high school students, 500 yen for junior high school students, and 300 yen for elementary school students. University/high school/junior high school students are required to present their student ID at the reception. Elementary and junior high school students in Otaru can get in free with the Otaru Resident Special Discount. Those with documentation of a physical disability, rehabilitation, or mental disability can receive free admission, plus one designated caregiver. Please check the official website for more details. The estimated time required for Otaru Art Base is about 3 hours in total if the museum is not crowded. The estimated time required for each museum is as follows: ● Stained Glass Museum: Approximately 30 minutes ● Former Mitsui Bank Otaru Branch: Approximately 30 minutes ● Nitori Museum: Approximately 60 minutes ● House of Western Art: Approximately 60 minutes Many reviews for Otaru Art Base talk about the beauty of the exhibits and praise their harmony with the historical buildings. People also praise the number of exhibits, and are often surprised at the quality, saying that it's worth more than what you pay! Other Things to Do in Otaru Below is a short list of other things to do in Otaru, Hokkaido. Otaru Museum Otaru Museum is a museum that displays exhibits related to the history, nature, transportation, and science of Hokkaido. The museum is actually made up of 2 separate buildings: the main building, and the canal pavilion. They are a 20-minute walk from one another but you can purchase a ticket to visit both. Hours: 9:30 am - 5:00 pm Admission Fee: General admission: 400 yen (winter 300 yen), high school students and senior citizens living in the area: 200 yen (winter 150 yen), Junior high school students and younger: free Otaru Music Box Museum The Otaru Music Box Museum is located in a historical building that was built in 1915. It's home to 80,000 music boxes of 5,000 different varieties, making it one of the largest music box stores in Japan. It's a great place to go if you like music boxes, art, or are looking for souvenirs. The museum is a 15-minute walk from Otaru Art Base. Hours: 9:00 am - 6:00 pm Admission Fee: Free Sankaku Market Otaru Market began around 1948 when a group of street vendors opened near Otaru Station. Eventually it developed into a morning market, attracting people from various regions in Japan. It's a great place to eat some delicious seafood and buy some local specialties to commemorate your trip to Otaru. Sankaku Market is located right next to Otaru Station and is a 12-minute walk from Otaru Art Base. Hours: 6:00 am - 5:00 pm (restaurants 7:00 am - 5:00 pm) All of these locations are within close proximity to one another, so if you're visiting Otaru, you can easily visit a number of different places in a single day, making for a really efficient trip. Summary of Otaru Art Base, in Otaru, Hokkaido Otaru is a port town with a beautiful retro townscape that evokes a sense of history. It's a popular tourist spot where you can enjoy nature, shopping, and delicious food, but also breathtaking works of art. Otaru Art Base is also home to buildings that themselves are works of art, and you can appreciate precious art pieces inside them while exploring their history. If you're in Otaru, Hokkaido, or are planning on visiting, be sure to stop by Otaru Art Base! 【Official Website】Stained Glass Museum (Former Takahashi Warehouse) | Otaru Art Base 【TripAdvisor】Otaru Art Base, Stained Glass Museum

The Bald Cypresses of Sasaguri Kyudai Forest: Video Introduction This video, titled "Giant Conical Trees in a Pond "Bald Cypresses" in Sasaguri, Fukuoka" (view 池に浮かぶ円錐の巨木　福岡県篠栗町の「ラクウショウ」), was uploaded by "SankeiNews." Sasaguri Kyudai Forest is located at the western edge of the Kyushu University Forest in Sasaguri, Fukuoka, in Japan's Kyushu Region. Approximately 50 species of evergreen broad-leaved trees and 40 species of deciduous broad-leaved trees grow in this lush 42-acre forest. The mysterious beauty of the bald cypresses floating on the surface of the water in Sasaguri Kyudai Forest has become a hot topic in Japan, attracting a constant stream of visitors from all across the country. Please take a look at the video below to see the mystical view of Sasaguri Kyudai Forest created by the bald cypresses. [Video] 0:37 - Sasaguri Kyudai Forest An Introduction to Kyushu University Kyushu University, often abbreviated to "Kyudai," is a Japanese university in Fukuoka Prefecture. It is one of the top universities in Japan according to various sources, including the Times Higher Education Japan University Rankings, where it currently ranks 6th. While most courses at Kyushu University are taught in Japanese and will require a JLPT N1 certificate to qualify for, the university also teaches a number of courses in English, and accepts students with an IELTS score of 6.0 or greater. In order to study abroad at Kyushu University, you must be enrolled as a degree student at one of Kyushu University's partner institutions, and be nominated by your home university as a candidate. Kyushu University's graduate school programs have differing requirements in each department, but enrolling in graduate school at Kyushu University requires students pass an entrance exam that is regarded as one of the most difficult in Japan. What is Sasaguri Kyudai Forest? Photo：Sasaguri Kyudai Forest, Sasaguri, Fukuoka Sasaguri Kyudai Forest is located at the western edge of Kyushu University Forest in Sasaguri, Fukuoka, and is jointly managed and operated by Kyushu University and the town of Sasaguri. There is also a walking trail and the area has been open to the public since 2010. The vast 42-acre Sasaguri Kyudai Forest is home to about 50 species of evergreen broad-leaved trees, including itajii and Japanese blue oaks, and around 40 species of deciduous broad-leaved trees, including jolcham oaks and Japanese wax trees. The most eye-catching of all are the giant bald cypress trees. More than a dozen conical trunks can be seen standing in a corner of Kamata Pond. The bald cypress is characterized by its aerial roots. The aerial roots protruding from the ground supply oxygen to the submerged roots. In Japanese, the bald cypress is called "Rakusho" (ラクウショウ), but another name for the tree, which is native to North America, is "numasugi" meaning "swamp cedar." As this name suggests, it prefers places such as swamps and wetlands. The bald cypresses at Sasaguri Kyudai Forest were planted from seedlings in 1977 by Kyushu University to study the tree. The trees are currently around 20 meters tall, but can grow as tall as 40 meters in their natural habitat. The tree's appearance also changes with the seasons, with bright green leaves in the summer and autumn colors in the fall. There's a 2km-long promenade around Kamata Pond in the center of Sasaguri Kyudai Forest, which has been certified as a "forest therapy base" by the Forestry Agency of Japan for its pleasant atmosphere which is great for forest bathing. The Habitat and Characteristics of the Bald Cypress, and How It Differs From the Dawn Redwood Photo：Dawn redwoods The bald cypress is a deciduous coniferous tree of the cypress family (Cupressaceae) native to North America. The name bald cypress comes from their historical tendency to be among the first trees in the American South to lose their leaves in the fall. The bald cypress is characterized by its ability to grow in swampy areas, as evidenced by its other name, "numasugi" (ヌマスギ, lit "swamp cedar"). Another characteristic of the bald cypress, which grows very fast, is that when it becomes an old tree, it grows aerial roots that serve to supply oxygen to its submerged roots. The bald cypress is easily mistaken for the dawn redwood, which has a similar leaf shape, but the difference is obvious when looking at the way the leaves are attached. The bald cypress' leaves are attached to the branches in opposite directions, while the dawn redwood's leaves are attached to the same part of the branch in pairs. [Video] 0:42 - The Roots of the Bald Cypress The Waterfront Forest at Sasaguri Kyudai Forest + the Best Times to See the Bald Cypresses Photo：Bald cypresses at Sasaguri Kyudai Forest, Sasaguri, Fukuoka The 2km-long promenade around Kamata Pond at Sasaguri Kyudai Forest is dotted with attractions, including five plazas. Among them, the Waterfront Forest offers a mysterious view that makes you feel as if you have wandered into the world of Ghibli, and has become a popular spot on Japanese Instagram. This spectacular view can be seen when the water level of Kamata Pond is high. The best time to see the water level rise is from early spring to around the end of Japan's rainy season (June-mid-July). In contrast, the water level is low from summer to fall, but during this period, you can see the aerial roots of the bald cypresses. The best time to see the autumn leaves is mid-November, when the falling leaves decorate the area around the trees in place of the water. Sasaguri Kyudai Forest – Directions and Nearest Station Here is how to get to Sasaguri Kyudai Forest. If you go by train, the nearest station is Kadomatsu Station. Take the JR Fukuhoku Yutaka Line rapid train bound for Nogata at Hakata Station (platform 8), get off at Kadomatsu Station, and take a taxi to the Sasaguri Kyudai Forest south exit parking lot (篠栗九大の森南口駐車場, Sasaguri Kyudai no Mori Minami-guchi Chushajo), which takes about 10 minutes. The train ride from Hakata Station takes about 17 minutes, or 4 stops if you take the rapid train. The fare is 280 yen. If you take a bus, the nearest station is Kasuya Police Station. Take a highway bus bound for "Iizuka/Tagawa" from Tenjin Expressway BT bus stop #1 and get off at "Kasuya Keisatsu Sho-mae" (粕谷警察署前). Go straight for about 300m east on the sidewalk with the bus stop, turn left and keep going straight until you see the information board for "Sasaguri Kyudai Forest", follow the sign and you will arrive at Sasaguri Kyudai Forest in about 15 minutes on foot from "Kasuya Keisatsu Sho-mae". The bus ride from Tenjin to "Kasuya Keisatsu Sho-mae" takes about 35 minutes and costs 510 yen. If you're going by car, the shortest route to the waterfront forest is via the "North Exit Parking Lot." Directions are as follows: Exit the expressway at the "Fukuoka IC" and go straight for about 2 km in the direction of Iizuka (飯塚). Then turn left at the "Wadabashi Signal," go about 50m, turn left again, go straight for about 300m, then turn right and go uphill. Continue straight and you will arrive at the South Exit Parking Lot of Sasaguri Kyudai Forest. Go straight for about 200m from the South Exit Parking Lot, then turn right and walk about 300m through the forest to reach the North Exit Parking Lot. Although you can get there by car, we recommend using public transportation to avoid traffic congestion caused by the increase in the number of tourists to Sasaguri Kyudai Forest. Summary of the Bald Cypresess of Sasaguri Kyudai Forest Sasaguri Kyudai Forest is a photogenic spot that is rapidly gaining popularity. However, it's become so popular that many tourists visit the forest. As a result, the forest is experiencing problems, such as traffic congestion, and destruction of the forest due to violations of etiquette, such as barbecuing, littering, and taking photos in restricted areas. They've even considered closing the area to allow the forest to recover.... To prevent this from happening, please follow the rules and manners, and enjoy the cypresses of Sasaguri Kyudai Forest, one of the best healing spaces in Fukuoka. [TripAdvisor] Sasaguri Kyudai Forest

Hydrangeas at Shinonome no Sato: Video Introduction This video, titled "Hydrangeas at Shinonome no Sato (Izumi, Kagoshima) [4K]"(紫陽花(アジサイ) 東雲の里（鹿児島県出水市) 【４Ｋ】） was uploaded by "Doronpi." Shinonome no Sato was created by taking advantage of the rolling hills of the mountain. This video shows what it's like to take a stroll through the garden while viewing the different varieites of hydrangeas. The video also features bird's eye views, so you can see what Shinonome no Sato is like from the skies, with hydrangeas extending as far as the eye can see. It's a beautiful scene that can only be seen during the rainy season in Japan. You can really feel the radiance of the hydrangeas as the flow in the sunlight in this 4K video. Be sure to take your time to viewing the hydrangeas Shinonome no Sato in the video, before reading along. A Beautiful Hydrangea Garden Made From Scratch: An Introduction to Shinonome no Sato Photo：Shinonome no Sato, Izumi, Kagoshima Shinonome no Sato is a garden located in Izumi, Kagoshima, in Japan's Kyushu region. The owner of the garden cleared a desolate mountainside, and opened the garden in 1995. The garden is a large area of about 40,000 tsubo (~32.5 acres) that takes advantage of the rolling hills of the mountain, and is planted with hydrangeas and other flowers and trees that reflect the four seasons of Japan. The Hydrangea Festival held in June attracts many tourists each year. The hydrangea blooming on both sides of the promenade are highly praised for being within arms' length. The owner of the garden is also a potter and there is a corner in the park where he exhibits his ceramic works. The works can be purchased as well, so if you're looking for a new coffee cup or souvenirs, you're sure to find something among his one-of-a-kind works. Hydrangea Bloom Periods and the Best Time to Visit Shinonome no Sato Photo：Hydrangeas at Shinonome no Sato, Izumi, Kagoshima The Hydrangea Festival at Shinonome no Sato is generally held from early June to coincide with the blooming of the hydrangeas. The festival features 100,000 hydrangeas of 160 varieties, making it one of the most populated hydrangea spots in Japan. This is a rare event where visitors can see many different varieties of hydrangeas blooming in a variety of colors all at once. Usually, admission to Shinonome no Sato is free, but during the Hydrangea Festival and Autumn Leaves Festival, there's a 500 yen admission fee for junior high school students and older (free for elementary school students and younger). Shinonome no Sato is well known for its hydrangeas and spacious grounds that allow visitors can stroll around at their leisure. Enjoy Tasty Soba Noodles at Shinonome no Sato Within the spacious grounds of Shinonome no Sato is Nama Soba Kusanoi, a soba restaurant selling delicious, handmade soba noodles. The owner is very particular about the seeds used to make the soba, making it a popular place to eat. Dishes made by the owner owner of Shinonome no Sato, are decorated with seasonal flowers and plants. It's well known for its tasteful appearance highlighting the seasons as well as its flavor. A café menu including cake sets is also available, making it a great place to take a break after a stroll through the garden. The architecture, which is in the style of a traditional Japanese residence, is carefully decorated and furnished to provide a relaxing atmosphere. Eating delicious soba and viewing the beautiful hydrangeas makes it a place that will stimulate all five of your senses. Experience the 4 Seasons of Japan at Shinonome no Sato Photo：Weeping cherry blossoms In addition to the hydrangeas in June, Shinonome no Sato also features a variety of seasonal views: in April, there's colorful weeping cherry blossoms, and in November, guests can enjoy the beauty of autumn as the leaves change color. A visit to Shinonome no Sato is a great way to get away from the hustle and bustle of the city and recharge in nature. Things to Do Near Shinonome no Sato Shinonome no Sato is located 25 minutes from the city of Izumi by car. Because of this, there isn't much to do in the immediate area surrounding the hydrangea garden. That being said, if you make your way back to Izumi, there are a few places we recommend checking out. Izumi-Fumoto Samurai Residences & the Izumi Historical Museum The samurai residences in Izumi were built some 400 years ago and today the area remains one of the largest samurai villages in Japan. Visitors to the Izumi-Fumoto Samurai Residences can enjoy learning about the history of the area and the Satsuma Domain, while seeing samurai armor and weapons and learning how people lived back then. There is also an ox carriage tour that takes you on a 25-minute-long tour of the area. Located right next to the Izumi-Fumoto Samurai Residences, the Izumi Historical Museum features a variety of exhibits with which to learn about the history of Izumi and the Satsuma Domain, including exhibits on traditional Japanese archery practiced by samurai, and the historical significance of Izumi. Hours: 9:00 am - 5:00 pm (Last entry 4:30 pm) Admission Fee: High school students and older: 510 yen (460 yen) Elementary and junior high school students: 300 yen (260 yen) ※Brackets indicate prices for groups of 20 or more. Izumi Crane Museum and Park As the largest crane migration grounds in Japan, each year Izumi sees more than 10,000 cranes between October and December, which migrate there all the way from Serbia. At the museum, visitors can learn about different varieties of cranes and see what they look like in their natural habitats. Hours: 9:00 am - 5:00 pm (Last entry 4:30 pm). Closed: Every Monday from April to October (or the following day if Monday is a national holiday) Admission Fee: Adults: 330 yen (260 yen), University and High school students: 220 yen (170 yen), Middle and elementary school students: 110 yen (80 yen) ※Brackets indicate prices for groups of 20 or more. Summary of Shinonome no Sato Known for its hydrangeas, Shinonome no Sato is highly rated on Google Maps reviews as a place to enjoy beautiful scenery and food. It's a healing spot where seasonal flowers and plants gently greet visitors. The expansive grounds are perfect for those looking to take a leisurely stroll and forget about the passage of time. If you've got the time, drop by to enjoy the flowers, the delicious food, and handmade ceramics! ◆Shinonome no Sato◆ 【Address】2881 Kami-Okawauchi, Izumi City, Kagoshima Prefecture 【Admission】Junior high school students and older: 500 yen, Elementary school students and younger: free ※Admission is free outside of the Hydrangea Festival and Autumn Leaves Festival event periods 【Hours】9:30 am - 4:30 pm 【Access】From Fukuoka: Minami-Kyushu Expressway Tsunaki IC→National Route 3→National Route 447→Shinonome no Sato 　From the Kyushu Longitudinal Expressway→Kurino IC→Route 267→Route 447→Shinonome no Sato 【Parking】Available 【Official Website】Welcome to the Website of Shinonome no Sato｜Izumi City 【TripAdvisor】Shinonome no Sato

Namba Yasaka Shrine Wedding Ceremony: Video Introduction This video, titled "Shrine Wedding at Namba Yasaka Shrine (難波八阪神社で神社結婚式)," was uploaded by "Namba Yasaka Shrine" (難波八阪神社). Namba Yasaka Shrine is located in the Naniwa Ward of downtown Osaka, in Japan's Kansai region. This video was filmed to advertise a traditional Japanese Wedding at a Shinto shrine, at Namba Yasaka Shrine. This shrine is incredibly popular on Japanese Instagram because of its unique Shishiden, a stage shaped like the head of a lion, and the Main Hall, with its beautiful architecture and solemn green and white coloring. Before reading any further, check out the video to see what a traditional Japanese Shinto wedding is like at the shrine. What Are Traditional Japanese Weddings Like? A traditional Japanese wedding, called a "Shinzenshiki" (神前式, lit. 'Ceremony before the gods'), is a wedding ceremony that takes places at a temple or shrine. During the wedding, the groom wears a black, 5-crested haori hakama (montsuki haori hakama), the most formal attire there is. Women on the other hand, wear a white kimono called a "Shiromuku," along with a special white cotton headdress. The wedding itself has several stages, including a purification ritual, a ritual drinking of sake, an exchange of rings, etc. The ceremony itself last around 20-40 minutes, but including preparations etc., the event will last several hours. Information About Namba Yasaka Shrine Photo：Namba Yasaka Shrine, Naniwa, Osaka Namba Yasaka Shrine's enshrined deities are: Susanoo, Kushinadahime, Yahashiramiko. Because Susanoo's divine virtues are divine virtues are to ward off bad luck, ward off pestilence, prosperous business, agriculture and fertility, you can see offerings from well-known companies in the precincts of the shrine. Kushiinadahime is known for her virtues of matchmaking, harmonious marriage, and easy childbirth. A wedding blessed by her is likely to bring you long-lasting happiness! Yahashiramiko are the eight gods born to Susanoo and Kushinadahime. Namba Yasaka Shrine's shuin stamp (shrine seal) is featured in the Shishiden, which is a symbol of this shrine. Even foreign tourists can tell that the stamp is from Namba Yasaka Shrine at a glance. On the cover of the original goshuin-cho (a book to collect shuin stamps), there is a lion's face and the shrine crest. The History of Namba Yasaka Shrine Photo：The Shishiden at Namba Yasaka Shrine, Naniwa, Osaka The present main shrine of Namba Yasaka Shrine was rebuilt in 1974, but it is said that the shrine was built more than 1,600 years ago, to worship Gozu Tenno, a god that is said to have appeared in order to subdue a plague that was spreading in the area. [Video] 0:17 - The Main Hall Colored White and Green Namba Yasaka Shrine is also known as Namba Shimonomiya, and has long been a familiar place for people born in the Namba area as a protector. In 1974, when the main shrine was rebuilt, the Shishiden was designed in the shape of a lion to ward off evil. The Shishiden enshrines the spirit of Susanoo. Shaped like a large lion's head, the Shishiden is powerful looking structure and a popular spot on Japanese social media. It's said to swallow evil spirits with its large mouth, and many people visit the shrine to pray for academic prosperity, business fortune, and victory. The Shishiden also serves as a stage, where Kagura (Shinto music and dance) and Shishimai (lion dances) are performed during special events. [Video] 0:15 - The Shishiden of Namba Yasaka Shrine Festivals at Namba Yasaka Shrine Here are two major festivals held at Namba Yasaka Shrine: ●Summer Festival The Summer Festival is held every year on July 13 and 14. During the festival, numerous portable shrines and taiko drums are paraded through the streets, and the boat procession, which was revived in 2001 for the first time in some 230 years, makes a lively parade along the Dotonbori River. On both days, folk dances and lion dances are held on the stage of the Shishiden, and there's also mochi-maki (the scattering of rice cakes to participants) and other events that attract a large number of people. ●Tsunahiki Shinji Tsunahiki Shinji is a Shinto tug-of-war ritual held on the third Sunday of January each year. It's designated as an Intangible Cultural Property of Osaka. Based on the legend of Susanoo defeating Yamata no Orochi, a legendary eight-headed serpent, and protecting the people, this ritual is to pray for people's happiness by playing tug-of-war with a large rope that is made to look like an eight-headed serpent. The 20-meter long rope is made of thin ropes strung together by local volunteers. How to Get to Namba Yasaka Shrine + Parking Information, Etc. Photo：Namba Station, Osaka Here's how to get to Namba Yasaka Shrine in Naniwa, Osaka. ●By Train ・ Take the Osaka Metro Midosuji Line or Yotsubashi Line to [Namba Station] ・ Take the Kintetsu Railway or Nankai Electric Railway to [Namba Station] ・ Take the JR Yamatoji Line to [Namba Station] After arriving at Namba Station, exit the subway from Exit 32, which is near the south gate of Osaka Metro Yotsubashi Line. After exiting, take a right and then turn right again at the intersection named "Motomachi 3-chome Kita" (元町3丁目北). There, you'll see the south gate of Namba Yasaka Shrine. It's about a 6-minute walk. ・ Take the Osaka Metro Midosuji Line or Yotsubashi Line and get off at [Daikoku-cho Station] After reaching the ground level from Exit 2, proceed to the left and turn left at the "Motomachi 3-chome Kita" intersection to reach the South Gate of Namba Yasaka Shrine. It's about a 7-minute walk. ●By Car Just west of the "Motomachi 3-chome Kita" intersection on Route 26. Parking is available on the right after entering the south gate torii. There are ample coin parking lots in the vicinity. Things to Do Near Namba Yasaka Shrine Namba Yasaka Shrine is located in the heart of Osaka, meaning it's close to pretty much every tourist attractions in the area. Below is a list of 3 nearby places you should consider checking out: Dotonbori Running east to west through the center of Osaka, this canal was completed in 1615. Soon after, theaters were set up on the south bank and the area became an entertainment district. Today there are not nearly as many theaters, and the area is known for its food culture. It has a myriad of places to eat and drink while exploring the area. It's a 15-minute walk from Namba Yasaka Shrine. Shinsekai Located 20 minutes southeast of Namba Yasaka Shrine, this is a retro area with many different eateries and attractions, such as target shooting and arcades. It's also home to the famous Tsutenkaku Tower. Nipponbashi Denden Town Nipponbashi Denden Town is the Akihabara of Osaka. The area features shops selling everything from anime goods and manga to second hand goods and electronics. There are also a number of themed cafes in the area, such as maid cafes. Being just a 15-minute walk from Namba Yasaka Shrine, it's definitely a cool place to throw on your list. This is just a few of the places you can find near Namba Yasaka Shrine, but there are many more that are relatively close, such as Osaka Castle and Sumiyoshi Taisha. Be sure to do your research before visiting! Summary of Namba Yasaka Shrine Namba Yasaka Shrine is located in Minami, Osaka and is easily accessible, attracting many domestic and international tourists. It's famous as a power spot for taking photos, and is also known for being visited by the members of Kanjani Eight (a Japanese idol group) on a TV program. The historic Namba Yasaka Shrine can be used for wedding ceremonies, as well as general shrine visits and special occasions such as Shichi-Go-San. Be sure to take your camera or have your smart phone handy to take some pictures with the shrine when you visit! ◆Namba Yasaka Shrine◆ 【Address】2-9-19, Motomachi, Naniwa-ku, Osaka-shi, Osaka 【Access】 By train: 6 minutes' walk from Namba Station of Osaka Midosuji Line and Yotsubashi Line / 7 minutes' walk from Daikokucho Station of Osaka Metro Midosuji Line and Yotsubashi Line / About 6 minutes' walk from Namba Station of Nankai Electric Railway 【Parking】Available 【TripAdvisor】Namba Yasaka Shrine

Hydrangea video introduction of “Yangtani-dera”, Yanagitani Kannon in Nagaokakyo City, Kyoto Prefecture, Japan. This video, titled "Hydrangea and Yanagidanikannon Youkoku-ji Temple"(【京都の紫陽花】柳谷観音（楊谷寺）：hydrangea and Yanagidanikannon Youkoku-ji Temple/花手水）) was uploaded by "Kawaii Kyoto." Located deep in the mountains, approximately 10 minutes from the city center of Nagaokakyo in Kyoto via car, sits Yanagidani Kannon (Yokokuji Temple), a temple with a variety of interesting sights throughout the year. A temizuya or chozuya is a basin at a temple or shrine where water is available for washing and purifying the hands and mouth before visiting the temple or shrine. It is often located alongside the approach to the temple/shrine. Yokokuji Temple is said to be the birthplace of hanachozu (花手水), which are chozuya filled with flowers. During hydrangea week, the temple grounds are filled with colorful hydrangeas. The color of hydrangeas, a cool light blue, is said to refresh the body and mind and relieve stress. Enjoy the beautiful images of Yokokuji Temple to the sound of birds chirping, along with the flower pots, the hydrangeas blooming on the temple grounds, and the lush greenery of the garden. Introduction to Yokokuji Temple, Kyoto, One of the Most Famous Ancient Temples in Japan Photo：Yanagidani Kannon (Yokokuji Temple), Kyoto Located in Nagaokakyo, Kyoto, Yokokuji Temple is an ancient temple that was opened in the early Heian Period (794 - 1185 AD). The principal deity is the eleven-faced, thousand-armed, thousand-eyed Kannon (Goddess of Mercy), who is said to cure people of eye diseases. The temple is open to the public on the 17th of every month, so be sure to remember that if you're planning on stopping by for a visit. The temple is also home to a spring water called "Okouzui," which is believed to be a holy water for healing eye diseases, and attracts many visitors. The Seasonal Faces of the Flower Pots at Yokokuji Temple Photo：Hanachozu at Yanagidani Kannon (Yokokuji Temple), Kyoto Yokokuji Temple, rich in natural beauty, offers different views in each season. These include Hydrangea Week from early June to early July, when the hydrangeas are at their best, and Momiji Week from mid-November to mid-December, when the autumn leaves are at their best. The hanachozu (the water basins filled with flowers) are highly popular on Japanese social media. In addition to the hydrangeas, there are cherry blossoms in spring, sunflowers and dahlias in summer, and colorful autumn leaves in the fall, all of which can be seen decorating the flower pots in their respective season. Be sure to check out the official Instagram page for Yokokuji Temple (@yanagidanikannon) to see the seasonal flowers floating in the flower basins. In the summer of 2022, the temple grounds were also decorated with pinwheels and wind chimes. Hydrangea Week at Yokokuji Temple Photo：Hydrangeas at Yanagidani Kannon (Yokokuji Temple), Kyoto Hydrangea Week at Yokokuji Temple is usually held around early June to early July, the best time to view the hydrangeas. The official website confirms that the hydrangeas will be in full bloom on June 23 in 2023. There are approximately 5,000 hydrangeas at Yokokuji Temple, making it the largest hydrangea temple in Kyoto. If you're thinking about visiting during the full bloom period, be sure to check the official website or Instagram to see the blooming conditions before you visit. Moreover, crowds can be expected during the Hydrangea Festival and Momiji Week. There are several parking lots available, but please note that the parking lots in front of the gate fill up quickly during the high season. Hands-on Classes at Yokokuji Temple Yanagidani Kannon/Yokokuji Temple also offers a variety of hands-on classes. In addition to seal making using pressed flowers, which is held on the 17th of every month, bead bracelet making and other classes are held occasionally as well. If you're interested, be sure to follow their social media accounts to find out when these classes are held. They also have a variety of regular classes as well. Colorful Autumn Leaves at Yokokuji Temple Photo：Autumn leaves in a hanachozu at Yanagidani Kannon (Yokokuji Temple), Kyoto In autumn, Yokokuji Temple is actually a great spot for viewing the autumn foliage. The entire mountain is beautifully colored and you can enjoy the autumn leaves from the temple precincts. The best time to view the autumn leaves is from November to mid-December. In 2022, the best time to view the leaves was in late November, so you can expect the same in 2023. It's a lesser-known tourist attraction, so it's possible to avoid the crowds here to a degree in a relaxed and quiet atmosphere. The inner shrine approach and Ganriki Inari (眼力稲荷) shrine area of the precincts of the temple, as well as Kamishoin (上書院) and Meisho Garden (名勝庭園, Meisho Teien), which is open to the public only on the 17th of each month, are also highlights of the autumn foliage season. During Momiji Week, the garden is illuminated brilliantly at night, creating a wonderful atmosphere. Why not capture the beautiful scenery with your camera at Yokokuji Temple, where there are many scenic spots to view the autumn leaves? How to Get to Yanagidani Kannon (Yokokuji Temple) Unfortunately, Yokokuji Temple is not the most accessible attraction. The easiest way to get to the temple if you don't have your own vehicle is by taxi from Nagaokakyo Station, Nagaoka-Tenjin Station, or Nishiyama-Tennozan Station (Approximately 10 mins.). Even by bus, from the nearest bus stop it's a 40-minute walk to the temple. If you like hiking or just want to explore a lesser-known tourist attraction in Japan, we definitely recommend making the hike. Other Temples to Visit in Kyoto Being the ancient capital of Japan, Kyoto is home to an estimated 3,000 temples. Below are 3 temples you should visit when traveling to Kyoto: Kiyomizudera A UNESCO World Heritage Site famous for its elevated stage with beautiful seasonal views. The temple is also home to a 3-story pagoda overlooking the city of Kyoto. Kinkakuji Also known as the golden pavilion, the temple, covered in golden leaf, was built in the 14th century and is located inside of a beautiful Japanese garden. It is also a registered UNESCO World Heritage Site. Ryoanji Temple A Zen temple in northwest Kyoto that was founded during the Onin War (1467 - 1477 AD). On top of being a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the temple features a lovely dry rock garden. Summary of Yanagidani Kannon (Yokokuji Temple) Kyoto's Yanagidani Kannon, aka Yokokuji Temple, is a healing spot where you can have a wonderful time throughout the year. The flowers in the flower pots remind visitors of the changing seasons in Japan. When you visit Kyoto on a trip, be sure to stop by Yokokuji Temple! [TripAdvisor] Yokokuji Temple

Video introduction to Mimuroto-dera Temple, a hydrangea temple in Uji City, Kyoto Prefecture This video, titled "【4k】Hydrangea of Mimurodo temple: Kyoto)" (【4k】三室戸寺・あじさい園-Hydrangea of Mimurodo temple：Kyoto), was uploaded by "Anna Film Production." Mimurotoji Temple (三室戸寺, Mimurotoji, also read as Mimurodoji), located in Uji, Kyoto is a famous location for its beautiful hydrangeas. This video released in 2018 shows the beauty of the hydrangea garden while lit up at night. [Video] 0:36 - Illuminated Hydrangeas at Mimurotoji Temple The History of Mimurotoji Temple and Its Connection to the Tale of Genji Photo：Mimurotoji Temple, Kyoto Mimurotoji Temple, an important temple in Western Japan, dates back to the Nara period (710-794 AD). According to temple legends, it was founded by a high-ranking Buddhist monk at the request of Emperor Konin in 770 A.D., approximately 1,200 years ago. Mimurotoji Temple was written "御室戸寺" (Mimurotoji) in Chinese characters when it was built, but after it was used as a detached palace for Emperor Konin, Emperor Kazan, and Emperor Shirakawa, it was renamed as "三室戸寺" (Mimurotoji) by replacing the first character "御" (an honorific character) with "三" (three), to signify the three emperors. After many ups and downs, the current main hall was rebuilt in 1814 in the late Edo Period, thanks to efforts by the monk Honyo. The temple is considered to be the model for the mountain temple depicted in Uji Jujo (The Ten Chapters of Uji), one of the final sections in The Tale of Genji. The name "Ukifune," which is a name of a part of the chapters, is engraved on a bell in the temple cast around 350 years ago, and the name "Ukifune" is also engraved on the ancient monument next to the bell. These facts suggest that the temple has been associated with the Tale of Genji since at least the early Edo period (circa 1603 to 1700 A.D.). Mimuroto-ji Temple, one of the best hydrangea garden in Kyoto, will be open from early June in 2024. What are the hours of illumination and admission fees? Photo：Hydrangeas at Mimurotoji Temple, Kyoto Visitors to the temple can enjoy the sight of 20,000 hydrangeas of 50 different varieties. The best time to visit is from early June to early July. The official Mimurotoji Temple Instagram reports the flowering status from time to time. In 2022, they were at around 30% bloom in early June, reaching peak bloom around June 20. We recommend that visitors to Mimuroto to see the 2024 hydrangeas check Instagram in advance. Along with the illuminated hydrangeas, another popular thing to see at the temple is the heart-shaped hydrangeas. They're a favorite of visitors since being promoted by Iwai Seika (a teahouse in the precincts of the temple). Be sure to keep an eye out for them when perusing the lovely hydrangeas at the temple. [Video] 0:29 - A Heart-Shaped Hydrangea Heart-shaped amulets and Ema (絵馬, votive plaques) are also available. In addition, there are 4 types of regular shuin (御朱印), and seasonal shuin stamps, so those who them should check these out as well. ●Hydrangea Garden (daytime) June 1 - July 7, 2024 Time: 8:30 - 15:40 (dismount by 16:30) ●Ajisai Garden (light-up) Saturdays and Sundays only, June 8 - 23, 2024 Hours: 19:00 - 21:00 (registration closes at 20:30) Day and night are switched. Admission is 1,000 yen for adults and 500 yen for children for both the daytime and nighttime sessions, respectively. The Guardian Creatures of Mimurotoji Temple: Rabbits, Snakes, and Oxen Photo：Ugashin, the guardian snake of Mimurotoji Temple, Kyoto Unlike other temples with komainu (guardian lion-dogs), Mimurotoji Temple has stone statues of guardian rabbits and guardian oxen near the main hall, as well as guardian snakes near the stone steps. Ugashin is a statue with a human head and snake body. It impresses visitors with its shape which is said to being good fortune when stroked. The guardian rabbit statue is 1.5 meters tall (~5 ft.) and holds a large ball. It's said that your wish will come true when the egg-shaped stone in the ball stands up. Petting the guardian oxen is said to bring good luck as well. Unfortunately, the guardian creatures cannot be seen during the evening lighting-up, so be sure to visit them during the day to receive their blessings. Seasonal Highlights of Mimurotoji Temple: 20,000 Azaleas and Weeping Plums in The Garden! Photo：Azaleas at Mimurotoji Temple, Kyoto The temple sits on a 4-acre plot of land and also has an azalea garden and a weeping plum garden. The Shidare Ume Garden is home to 250 weeping plum trees in red, white, and pink. The garden is open from mid-February to the end of March every year from 8:30 a.m. to 3:10 p.m. In 2024, the garden was open from February 8 to March 31. The azalea garden features approximately 20,000 azalea plants. The best time to see the azaleas is usually around GW. This year, the garden will be open from April 20 to May 12, 2024, from 8:30 to 15:40. In front of the main hall is a lotus garden with 250 pots of lotus flowers. This year, the garden is scheduled to open from late June to early August 2024. The scene is reminiscent of a paradise. In July, when the lotus flowers are at their best, the park also hosts a "lotus wine drinking party," in which visitors pour sake into lotus leaves and drink from the stems. It is believed to be good for health and longevity, so why not give it a try? Admission to the azalea garden, weeping plum garden, and lotus garden is 1,000 yen for adults and 500 yen for children. There are steep slopes and steep stairs, so please allow plenty of time for your visit. Things to do Near Mimurotoji Temple Here are a few places you should consider checking out if you're planning on visiting Mimurotoji Temple: Tale of Genji Museum The Tale of Genji Museum, which opened in 1998, introduces the world of the Tale of Genji with various models and videos. The museum hosts lectures regularly to teach visitors more about the Tale of Genji and Heian period Japan, and also features a collection of more than 3,000 books that visitors can enjoy reading. Approximately 15 minutes walking from Mimurotoji Temple. Hours: 9:00 am - 5:00 pm (last entry 4:30 pm) Admission Fee: Adults 500 yen, Children 250 yen. ※Discounts available for groups of 30 or more. Daikichiyama Observation Deck An observation deck where visitors can enjoy the nature of Uji, Kyoto. From the Tale of Genji Museum, it's about a 2-minute walk to the base of the mountain where the observatory is located. From there, it's an approximately 15-minute climb to the observatory. The path leading up to the observatory is a long, windy road, but this allows it to be a gentle incline that isn't too difficult to climb. Hours: Open 24 hours Admission Fee: Free Byodoin Temple Byodoin Temple is one of the most famous temples in Japan. Built in the Heian Period, the temple has a long history, and an incredibly stunning architectural style. The Phoenix Hall is particularly photogenic. Visitors to the temple can enjoy perusing the various murals found inside the temple, a walk through the temple garden, and a cup of tea at the temple tea house. Approximately 20 minutes walking from Mimurotoji Temple. Hours: Garden: 8:30 am - 5:30 pm (last entry 5:15 pm), Phoenix Hall: 9:30 am - 4:10 pm (Max 50 entrants/20 mins), Temple Museum: 9:00 am - 5:00 pm (last entry 4:45 pm), Museum Shop: 9:00 am - 5:00 pm, Tea Room "Sabo Toka": 10:00 am - 4:30 pm (last order 4:00). Admission Fee: Byodoin Temple Garden and Museum: Adults: 600 yen, Junior high and high school students: 400 yen, Elementary school students: 300 yen. ※Discounts available for groups of 25 or more. The Tale of Genji Museum and Daikichiyama Observation Deck are located between Mimurotoji Temple and Byodoin Temple, so we recommend the following course: Mimurotoji Temple→Tale of Genji Museum→Daikichiyama Observation Deck→Byodoin Temple You could also start at Byodoin Temple and work your way towards Mimurotoji Temple as well. A Brief Introduction to Uji, Kyoto Located south of Kyoto, Uji is a city in Japan known for its delicious tea and ties to the Tale of Genji. The city is home to a number of historical attractions, such as Byodoin Temple, an architectural masterpiece, and Ujigami Shrine, thought to be the oldest Shinto shrine in existence. Both of these are registered UNESCO World Heritage Sites. If you're looking to explore the ancient culture, history, and traditions of Japan, then Uji definitely worth a visit, and we highly recommend adding it to your Japan travel itinerary. Summary of Mimurotoji Temple in Uji, Kyoto Mimurotoji Temple, an ancient temple in Uji, Kyoto, is famous for its hydrangea garden. It's also known as a power spot. Its guardian rabbit greets visitors with its smiling face as they climb the stairs. Stroke its big ears to receive good fortune. Mimurotoji Temple also has a beautiful weeping plum garden and azalea garden. Be sure to visit when they're in bloom to see another beautiful aspect of the temple. [TripAdvisor] Mimurotoji Temple

Giant Panda's at Adventure World – Check It Out in the Video! This video, titled "[Yuihin] Introducing a Panda at Adventure World (Saihin's Sister)" (【結浜（ゆいひん）】アドベンチャーワールドのパンダを紹介（彩浜のお姉さん）), was uploaded by "Orange Animal Channel" (オレンジ動物チャンネル). It introduces Yuihin, a giant panda at Adventure World in Wakayama Prefecture, as well as her eating habits and more. The giant panda is popular among visitors to the theme park for its cute appearance. In Japan, they can only be seen at Ueno Zoo in Tokyo, Adventure World, and Kobe Oji Zoo in Kobe. When the babies are exhibited for the first time to the public, many people gather to see the cute and cuddly not-yet-giant pandas. Photo：A giant panda Featured in the video is Yuihin, a giant panda at Adventure World. Yuihin is a female giant panda born at Adventure World on September 18, 2016, and her name (結浜: 結 (Yui), meaning "connect") reflects her wish to "connect" the past and future, and to create a future that "connects" the various values of people around the world. Hin (浜 (also read as "hama"), meaning "shores"/"beach"), on the other hand, is taken from Shirahama, where Adventure World is located, and all giant pandas born at Adventure World have "浜" (hin) in their names. Yuihin's mother is "Rauhin" (良浜) and her father is "Eimei" (永明). In the video, it's explained that there are 8 brothers and sisters with the same parents (9 total if you include Yuihin), but after the video was made in 2019, "Fuhin" (楓浜) was born on November 22, 2020, so there are now a total of 10 siblings. Of the siblings, the four twins and Yuhin (優浜) (not to be mistaken for Yuihin (結浜)) have returned to China, so the females currently living at Adventure World are Ouhin (桜浜), Tohin (桃浜), Saihin (彩浜), Fuhin (楓浜), and Yuihin (結浜). The distinctive characteristic of Yuihin is the cowlick on top of her head, which is one of the things that makes her so cute. She is also very curious and tomboyish. You can see the introduction of Yuihin from 0:23 in the video. Eating Habits of the Giant Panda Shown in the Video Photo：A bamboo forest Giant pandas are known to eat mainly bamboo and bamboo grass. Although they are thought to be herbivorous animals, they are actually "omnivores" in the Carnivora order and Ursidae family. However, even in the wild, they eat very little meat, if any, primarily consuming bamboo and bamboo leaves from bamboo forests. The length of the giant panda's intestines is not as long as those of herbivores, and is closer to that of carnivorous animals. The reason they eat so little meat is thought to be due to the living environment of the giant panda. It is believed that giant pandas, whose habitat is deep in the mountains of China to avoid competition from outside forces, have come to eat bamboo and bamboo grass, which can be obtained stably even in winter, regardless of weather conditions. For that reason, they do not hibernate in winter as they have food available. Giant pandas, also known as simply "pandas," have a head and body length of 120-150 centimeters, with males weighing 100 kilograms and females 90 kilograms. Standing, the giant panda is approximately 170 centimeters tall. Giant pandas eat an average of 15 kg of bamboo and bamboo grass per day, so it costs a lot of money to secure a stable supply of food. In addition, since they are on loan from China, there are also rental fees, making it very expensive to raise them. Giant Pandas Facing Becoming an Endangered Species Photo：Giant pandas The giant panda is a mammal that is facing possible endangerment. Although the Washington Convention and the Chinese government are working to protect them, the population of giant pandas in the wild is estimated to be only about 1,600 worldwide. Adventure World is conducting breeding research using a "breeding loan program" to breed giant pandas, which are on the brink of becoming an endangered species. Currently, there are seven pandas living at Adventure World, making it the zoo with the largest number of pandas in Japan. Summary of Giant Panda's at Adventure World Photo：Adventure World, Wakayama Prefecture In this article, we introduced the giant panda, an animal popular for its large head and cute appearance. The video captures Yuihin eating her tasty bamboo grass. We hope you enjoy the video of the very cute giant panda Yuihin at Adventure World. 【Official Website】Adventure World https://www.aws-s.com/en/ 【TripAdvisor】Adventure World https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g1121351-d1013894-Reviews-Adventure_World-Shirahama_cho_Nishimuro_gun_Wakayama_Prefecture_Kinki.html