Hon-Yabakei, Oita. One of Japan's Most Beautiful Sightseeing Destinations The video “Drone Trip 本耶馬渓（大分県 中津市）,” was created by “大分県中津市” (Nakatsu City, Oita Prefecture) as a promotional video to introduce recommended sightseeing spots at the popular sightseeing destination Hon-Yabakei. Hon-Yabakei, with its unique landscape due to lava flow, as well as its collection of historical landmarks, is an immensely popular sightseeing destination. Yabakei is located in Kyushu’s Oita Prefecture, Nakatsu City, Kusu Town (大分県中津市・玖珠町, Oita-ken Nakatsu-shi Kusu-machi). The vast scenic area of historical and cultural importance was even designated as a Heritage Sight of Japan in the year 2017. Besides Yabakei, other famous sightseeing spots, such as Aonodomon Tunnel (青の洞門, Aonodomon), Fururakan (古羅漢, Fururakan), and Kyoshuho Cliff (競秀峰, Kyoshuho), all come together to make up Nakatsu, Oita’s Hon-Yabakei. In this video, drone recordings and time-lapses are used to introduce Oita’s Hon-Yabakei. The video is chock-full of impressive aerial views. Information About Hon-Yabakei, Oita’s Foremost Sightseeing Location Photo：Aonodomon Tunnel Shown at 0:06 in the video, as the camera moves along the Yamakuni River (山国川, Yamakuni-gawa), what comes into view on the right-hand side is the Aonodomon Tunnel, which is especially popular in the fall. The Aonodomon Tunnel is one of Hon-Yabakei's representative sightseeing spots. It was constructed during the Edo period (1603 – 1868) to enable monks to safely cross the treacherous cliffs along the river. Though dug by hand by stonemasons using only chisels and hammers, the tunnel was completed in a mere 30 years. After completion, tolls were collected for passage, making this tunnel Japan’s very first toll road. Next is Yabakei Bridge (耶馬渓橋, Yabakei-bashi), characterized by its 8 arches. This bridge is also known as the Holland Bridge (オランダ橋, Oranda-bashi), and is one of the "Top 100 Famous Bridges in Japan." The Yabakei Bridge is also Japan’s longest stone-masonry bridge. This is introduced at 0:23 in the video. Hon-Yabakei, Oita’s Popular Sightseeing Spot: Fururakan Photo：Rakan-ji Temple At the top of the mountain lies the Fururakan View (古羅漢の景, Fururakan no kei). After viewing the Rakan statues, you can pass through Tenjin Bridge (天人橋, Tenjin-bashi) and the stone mountain gate of Fururakan. Tenjin Bridge is the main entrance to Rakan-ji Temple (羅漢寺, Rakan-ji), a mysterious area where man and nature coexist. Here, you can worship with peace of mind. From 0:35 in the video, you can see the Fururakan towering over the mountains and expanse of nature. Next is the Running Dog View (犬走りの景, Inu-hashiri no Kei), a low-water crossing named for its river stones which are shaped like dogs. On bicycle, you can proceed to the entrance of the Kyoshuho Cliff Exploration Path (競秀峰探勝道, Kyoshuho tansho-do). Go through the mountain path full of greenery and proceed to an area where ancient statues of Buddha and other deities remain. Then, travel down the chain to reach the steep cliff "The Rock of Jin" (陣の岩, Jin no iwa). The Rock of Jin at Kyoshuho Cliff offers a 360-degree panoramic view that'll definitely look great on Instagram. This is a popular spot not only for people in Japan, but also people from overseas as well as mountain climbers. The Kyoshudo Cliff Exploration Path also has a beginner’s course that takes only about 70 minutes. It's a rock exploration course where you can experience Mother Nature. Summary of Hon-Yabakei, Oita Photo：Kyoshuho Cliff Hon-Yabakei is located in Nakatsu, Oita in the Kyushu region of Japan. It's 1.5 hours from Fukuoka Airport by limited express train (特急列車, Tokkyu-ressha), and 45 minutes away from Oita Station, similarly by limited express train. As seen in the video, this is an incredibly scenic area full of mysterious mountains. However, as it is not yet particularly well-known in Japan, it can be said to be a hidden sightseeing area. The sight of autumn leaves clinging to the steep cliffs is especially popular, with many tourists visiting in the fall. Furthermore, in recent years, Nemophila​ flowers (ネモフィラ, Nemofira) have been blooming in the fields in front of the Kyoshuho Cliff (Aonodomon Tunnel). The Nemophila Festival, to celebrate these refreshing blue flowers, is held from mid-April to Golden Week, and it has become a new sightseeing attraction. You can feel the majesty and beauty of this scenic area in the video. We hope that were were able to convey the charm of Hon-Yabakei through this article and video. Experience the mysteries of nature in the lava plateau of Hon-Yabakei! 【Official Website】Oita Prefecture, Nakatsu City Municipal Office Homepage https://www.city-nakatsu.jp/ 【Tripadvisor】Hon-Yabakei https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g1023431-d1424981-Reviews-Honyaba_Valley-Nakatsu_Oita_Prefecture_Kyushu.html

Fukuoka: Where sightseeing, Japanese culture, the outdoors, and Japanese cuisine all come together The video “Hyperlapse Fukuoka City, Japan 4k (Ultra HD) - 福岡 Full ver.” is a promotional video created by the city of Fukuoka. It introduces sightseeing locations, Japanese cuisine such as street food, Japanese culture though festivals, and more, all in one of Japan’s most popular sightseeing destinations- Fukuoka, in Japan's Kyushu region. Fukuoka is said to be a gateway to Asia, as it's a popular sightseeing destination welcoming many visitors to Japan. This video introduces more than 20 famous sightseeing areas and places of cultural interest in Fukuoka. 5 impressive minutes of breathtaking views shown through time lapses and aerial shots taken by drones. We guarantee you'll find a spot you want to visit. Sightseeing in Fukuoka- Recommendations and information about commercial facilities Photo：Fukuoka Yafuoku! Dome and hotel From 0:05 in the video, the symbol of Fukuoka, the Fukuoka Yafuoku! Dome (福岡ヤフオク！ドーム, Fukuoka yafuoku domu) is shown. This is Japan’s first stadium built with a retractable roof, making it usable no matter the weather. This is also the home stadium of the Fukuoka Softbank Hawks. At 3:23, we can hear the crowd cheering from inside the stadium. Fukuoka Tower (福岡タワー, Fukuoka tawa) is an exquisite 234-meter-tall tower equipped with 8000 pieces of half mirrors reflecting the sky and the city. From the viewing platform, you can enjoy a 360-degree view of Fukuoka, which was chosen as one of Japan’s “Top 100 night views”. The ACROS Fukuoka, reminiscent of a park, as well as the Canal City Hakata, built around a meandering canal to create a unique space, are entertainment complexes. These famous structures of Fukuoka Prefecture can be seen at 0:19 in the video. Access to Fukuoka’s recommended sightseeing areas Hakata Station (博多駅, Hakata-eki) is conveniently located about 5 minutes away from Fukuoka Airport (福岡空港, Fukuoka kuko) by subway. outside of that, Kyushu (九州, Kyushu), Kagoshima (鹿児島, Kagoshima), and Honshu (本州, Honshu), are accessible through the JR bullet train (JR新幹線, JR shinkansen). Besides public transportation such as the trains or buses from Hakata Station, renting a car and driving through the city’s highways is also a convenient way to travel in the city. Sightseeing in Fukuoka- history, culture, nature, and our recommendations Photo：The five-story pagoda at Tochoji Temple From 1:11 of the video, Ohori Park (大濠公園, Ohori koen) is introduced. This is a healing location right in the center of Fukuoka City and home to the five-story pagoda of Tochoji Temple (東長寺, Tochoji) as well as the Buddha of Fukuoka, so it's definitely worth seeing. The Fukuoka Buddha is 16.1 meters (52.8 ft) tall, making it the largest wooden Buddha in all of Japan. Next, the Fukuoka City Museum (福岡市博物館, Fukuoka-shi hakubutsukan) located in Momochihama (百道浜, Momochihama) is a cultural facility that introduces the lifestyle of Fukuokans as well as the history of Fukuoka itself. The well-known National Treasure, the “King of Na gold seal” (金印, Kin-in) is also on permanent display. In addition, the Jotenji Temple (承天寺, Jotenji) near Hakata Station boasts an exquisite stone garden. Umi-no-Nakamichi (海の中道, Umi no nakamichi) and Nokonoshima Island (能古島, Nokonoshima) are also brimming with nature. These can be seen from 1:26 in the video. From 2:10 in the video, craftsmen can be seen producing Hakata-ori textiles (博多織, Hakata-ori) and Hakata dolls (博多人形, Hakata-ningyo). The Hakozaki Shrine (筥崎宮, Hakozakigu), with a main worship hall recognized as an Important Cultural Property of Japan is shown, as well as two of the three main festivals of Kyushu. The first is the Tamaseseri Festival (玉取祭・玉せせり, Tamatori・Tamaseseri), where participants compete to get their hands on a lucky ball. Also shown is the Hakata Gion Yamakasa festival (博多祇園山笠, Hakata gion yamakasa), which is recognized by UNESCO as an intangible cultural heritage. Fukuokan cuisine Around Tenjin Station (天神駅, Tenjin-eki) and Nakasu (中洲, Nakasu) are more than 100 food stands where you can enjoy a great variety of Japanese cuisine such as Hakata ramen (博多ラーメン, Hakata ramen). Fresh sushi and motsunabe (もつ鍋, Motsunabe) are also popular. These popular Fukuokan foods are introduced at 3:03 in the video. A trip isn't complete without tasting food made from the very best local ingredients! Traveling in Fukuoka - Summary Photo：Fukuokan street food As shown in the video, Fukuoka is an area where you can thoroughly enjoy Japan’s culture, sightseeing, and cuisine. There are many more charming areas in the video that we couldn't get around to in this article, so if you haven't checked it out yet, we recommend giving it a look. You're sure to be charmed by what Fukuoka has to offer! 【Official Website】Fukuoka Prefecture, Fukuoka City Municipal Office Homepage https://www.city.fukuoka.lg.jp/english/index.html

Nagasaki Kunchi, an Autumn Festival of Suwa Shrine: Video Introduction Photo：A float at Nagasaki Kunchi, Nagasaki City, Nagasaki Prefecture This video, titled "【8K UHD】Nagasaki-Kunchi Festival 8K (2018)" (【8K UHD】Nagasaki-Kunci Festival 8K / 長崎くんち（2018）), was uploaded by "8K Video Album." Nagasaki Kunchi, an autumn festival of Suwa Shrine in Nagasaki City, Nagasaki Prefecture, located in Japan's Kyushu Region, is a traditional event that has been held for more than 380 years since the Edo period (1603-1868). For three days from October 7 every year, the town of Nagasaki is full of festivities! A number of unique dances are performed, gathering large audiences. Be sure to check out the video to see the dances at Nagasaki Kunchi and tourist attractions in the area, which attract crowds of people to Nagasaki each year. The History of Nagasaki Kunchi and Dances During the Festival Photo：A dragon dance at Nagasaki Kunchi, Nagasaki City, Nagasaki Prefecture Nagasaki Kunchi is an autumn festival of Suwa Shrine in Nagasaki City, Nagasaki Prefecture, held for three days from October 7 to October 9 each year. It's said that the festival began in 1634 when two women dedicated song and dance to the god of Suwa Shrine. For more than 380 years since then, these dances have been handed down by shrine parishioners of Nagasaki, and has been designated an Important Intangible Folk Cultural Property by the government of Japan. The 58 towns in Nagasaki are divided into 7 groups, with each group dedicating a dance once every 7 years, and each town having their own unique performance. The festival features many attractions, including Japanese dance to the accompaniment of nagauta (traditional Japanese music played on the shamisen), dragon dances to the sound of exotic musical instruments, and powerful floats and bearers! The festival becomes even more exciting as the audience cheers in response to the various performances. Where to See the 2023 Nagasaki Kunchi Dance Performances Photo：A dragon dance at Nagasaki Kunchi, Nagasaki City, Nagasaki Prefecture The 2023 Nagasaki Kunchi event will be held in Nagasaki City, Nagasaki Prefecture, for three days from October 7 to 9, 2023. The dances and portable shrine procession were canceled for three years starting in 2020 due to the global pandemic, but the festival is finally back in 2023 and is expected to be even more exciting than usual! In 2023, just like previous years, there will be a number of dances and performances. For these, paid spectator seats will be set up at Suwa Shrine, Yasaka Shrine, the Otabisho, and the Central Park Kunchi viewing area. The performances can also be seen at the Niwasaki Mawari (dances performed for homes, businesses etc. to share good fortune) in the town center. Around the end of September, a map/schedule with the schedule of the Niwasaki Mawari will be distributed at various locations in the city. "Kokkodesho," a Highlight of Nagasaki Kunchi Photo：Kokkodesho at Nagasaki Kunchi, Nagasaki City, Nagasaki Prefecture Nagasaki Kunchi, an Important Intangible Folk Cultural Property designated as such by the government of Japan, features a number of performances, including "Kokkodesho." The following is an introduction to the performance. ●Kokkodesho "Kokkodesho" is a dynamic performance in which 36 performers carry a 1-ton palanquin, which 4 drummers ride on, vigorously throwing it into the air and catch it with one arm each. [Video] 5:32 - Kokkodesho ●Kujira no Shiofuki "Kujira no Shiofuki" is a performances based on whaling that occurred in the past. The whale-shaped float spews water 4 to 5 meters into the air and wildly rampages around. On the 9th, a whale (fake) caught in a net will be shown. ●Oranda Manzai "Oranda Manzai" is a votive dance in which performers dressed as Dutch men, and other performers with drums and dressed in yellow, dance to the accompaniment of "Minshingaku" (Ming and Qing period music popularized in Japan). ●Goshuinsen "Goshuinsen" is a votive dance based on the theme of the wedding of Araki Sotaro, a Nagasaki merchant, and a Vietnamese princess. The audience is mesmerized by the float atop which noh musicians ride. ●Hon Odori "Hon Odori" is short for "Honcho no Odori" meaning "The dance of our country," and refers to a traditional Japanese dance. The dance is performed on various themes to the accompaniment of nagauta. [Video] 3:27 - Hon Odori ●Ryu Odori "Ryu Odori" (lit "Dragon Dance") is a typical Nagasaki Kunchi votive dance performed by four towns. The dragon dancers manipulate the dragon as if it were alive and dance to the unique music played on gongs, drums, trumpets, and other musical instruments. The dynamic floats and carriers, which can only be seen once every seven years, fascinate people every year. Food During Nagasaki Kunchi Photo：An okonomiyaki stall In the past, Nagasaki Kunchi had a unique type of cuisine called "Kunchi Ryori" (Kunchi Cuisine). Kunchi Ryori includes "azuki gohan" (red bean rice), "zakuro namasu" (a vegetable dish with pomegranate seeds), amazake (sweet sake), and other traditional dishes. During the festival period, many people make these dishes at home to celebrate the festival. While you're unlikely to find them at the festival, you can still enjoy a variety of Japanese festival foods. Like most Japanese festivals, there will be a number of food stalls open where festivalgoers can purchase snacks like okonomiyaki, yakitori, candied applies, parfaits, and more. Be sure to pick up some delicious snacks when you visit! How to Get There Photo：Suwa Shrine, Nagasaki Prefecture There are several venues where Nagasaki Kunchi will take place. Below, we'll introduce how to get to each location. Suwa Shrine From Nagasaki Station, take the streetcar to Suwa Shrine (~10 mins), or walk from Nagasaki Station (~20 mins). Yasaka Shrine Take the streetcar bound for Sofukuji Temple and get off at Sofukuji Temple (~7 mins). From there, it's a short walk to Yasaka Shrine. Otabisho Take the streetcar bound for Sofukuji Temple and get off at Ohato Station (~7 mins), or walk from Nagasaki Station (~12 mins). Central Park Take the streetcar bound for Sofukuji Temple and get off at Meganebashi Bridge (~6 mins), or walk to Central Park from Nagasaki Station (~15 mins). Summary of Nagasaki Kunchi Photo：A dragon dance at Nagasaki Kunchi, Nagasaki City, Nagasaki Prefecture Nagasaki Kunchi, an autumn festival held at Suwa Shrine, begins on June 1. Caretakers and performers of the various towns involved pray for the safe completion of their major roles by undergoing purification before the deities of Suwa Shrine and Yasaka Shrine, and begin rehearsals for their performances. In 2023, the festival will be held for the first time in four years. There will be many locals as well as tourists from all over Japan and abroad looking forward to the event! If you have the chance to visit Nagasaki during the event, be sure to join in the festivities! 【Official Website】Nagasaki Kunchi｜Nagasaki Traditional Performing Arts Promotion Association 【TripAdvisor】Nagasaki Kunchi