Video introduction of “Kamogawa Noryo-doko” in Nakagyo-ku, Kyoto City This video, titled "Kamogawa Nouryou-Yuka & Ponto-cho｜Summer in Kyoto" (鴨川納涼床と先斗町　京都の夏), was uploaded by "K Japan Traveler." Summer in Kyoto brings with it the Kamogawa Nouryou-Yuka, a relaxing riverside dining experience. For a limited time, visitors can enjoy traditional Kyoto cuisine on the riverbank in the quaint Ponto-cho area, where if you're lucky, you can also encounter maiko. In the video, you can see Kamogawa Nouryou-Yuka from Shijo Ohashi Bridge in the evening and at night, as well as the stores in Ponto-cho. Be sure to check it out. The History of the Terraces of Kyoto's Kamo River Photo：Kamo River terraces, Kyoto Kamogawa Nouryou-Yuka is one of the most popular summer traditions in Kyoto. While the terraces in Kibune are called "kawadoko," the terraces on the Kamo River are called "nouryou-yuka." The wooden platforms (eating and drinking spaces) on the right bank of the Kamo River between Nijo Ohashi Bridge and Gojo Ohashi Bridge are called "kamogawa nouryou-yuka," and each establishment offers special courses for a limited time. The history of kamogawa nouryou-yuka dates back to the reign of Toyotomi Hideyoshi after a war. The Kamo River was improved by replacing Sanjo Ohashi and Gojo Ohashi Bridge, and the area became crowded with peddlers. Later, in the Edo period (1603-1868 A.D.), many teahouses were built along the Kamo River. It is said that the first teahouses were built along the Kamo River, where wealthy merchants laid out benches with tables to entertain their guests who came from distant places so that they could enjoy the cool of the evening. When is Kyoto Kamogawa Noryokoyoko 2024? Photo：Kamo River terraces, Kyoto Kamogawa Noryokoko is associated with summer, but it is held every year from May. The 2024 event will be held from May 1 to September 30, 2024. [Kamogawa Nouryou-Yuka] On the below websites, stores are introduced by area, such as the upper Kiyamachi Street area (Nijo Dori - Sanjo Dori), lower Kiyamachi Street area (Shijo Dori - Gojo Dori), Ponto-cho area, and Nishi-Ishigaki area, and you can check each store's opening hours, prices, and whether reservations are required by clicking the store you are interested in. Reservations required for dinner at Noryokoro? We introduce 4 recommended restaurants including hamo (Japanese conger eel), Kyoto cuisine, and Japanese beef! Photo：Ryokan Tsuruse Kamogawa Nouryou-Yuka is a limited-time-only event that is very popular among both local Kyotoites and tourists. Advance reservations are recommended when visiting the river terraces. When making a reservation, be sure to let them know that you would like a terrace "yuka" seat. Below, we'll introduce some recommended restaurants when visiting the river terraces. ●Chimoto Chimoto is a long-established restaurant boasting fine Kyoto cuisine that has been loved by many writers and artists since its inception. This restaurant is recommended for those looking to enjoy the river terraces with a little luxury. Evening courses start at ¥19030 (~$140 USD). ●Robin Renovated from two 150-year-old teahouses, the restaurant's interior is like a maze. You can enjoy authentic Kyoto-style kaiseki cuisine and seasonal ingredients, such as conger eel. The Kawadoko Courses start at ¥7,000 (~$51 USD). ●Tsuruse This ryokan, with its majestic karahafu entrance evokes a sense of history. The nouryou-yuka (river terrace) can accommodate up to 200 people. The kawadoko course, which includes conger eel hot pot called "suzumi-ryori," starts at ¥8,500 (~$62 USD). ●Kyoto Yakiniku Shin Ponto-cho This is the perfect place for those who want to enjoy Wagyu beef on the Noryokoko. Why not enjoy Omi beef or black Wagyu beef while viewing the night scenery? The most popular course is the Kamo Course for ¥8,800(~$56USD). A Casual Way to Enjoy Kyoto's Cool River Terraces! 3 Recommended Cafes and Italian Restaurants For those who want to enjoy Kamogawa Nouryou-Yuka a bit more casually and without breaking the bank, here are some cafes and Italian restaurants you can enjoy. ●Ushi no Hone A popular restaurant serving original Japanese cuisine and beef stew. The Nouryou-Yuka courses start at ¥6,000 (~$44 USD). ●Ikariya Shokudo A riverside bistro where you can enjoy confit a regional dish of southwestern France and handmade pasta. The kawadoko lunch course served on the Kamogawa Nouryou-Yuka is ¥2,800 (~$21 USD). ●BABBI GELATERIA KYOTO How about some Italian gelato while cooling off on the river? Gelato is made daily using ingredients imported straight from Italy. There's tons of photogenic gelato for any instagrammers out there as well! ●Salon de Royal Kyoto Chocolate bonbons are the main attraction at this café, but macaroons, petit gâteau, and a variety of other desserts are also available. Access to Kyoto's Cool River Terraces Photo：A road sign The nearest station to Kamogawa Nouryou-Yuka is Kawaramachi via the Hankyu Line. From the station, it is only a few minutes' walk to the entrance of Shijo Ponto-cho. From Kyoto Station, transfer at Shijo station on the subway Karasuma Line and get off at Kyoto-Kawaramachi Station on the Hankyu Line. If using a city bus, the nearest stops are "Kawaramachi-Gojo," "Shijo-Kawaramachi," and "Kyoto Shiyakusho-mae." Be sure to check the location of the restaurant and get off at the nearest stop. Summary of Kamogawa Nouryou-Yuka, a Summer Tradition of Cool River Terraces in Kyoto You can find couples sitting along the banks of the Kamo River as seen from the Shijo Ohashi Bridge, regardless of the season. The summer nights along the Kamo River are lit up by the lights of the river terraces, creating a fantastic scene. [Video] 2:02 - Terraces on the Kamo River at Night The view from the river terraces is simply wonderful and has its own unique charm. In the hot summer of Kyoto, you can enjoy traditional Kyoto cuisine while enjoying the breeze and the gentle murmur of the Kamo River. It is a very relaxing and even romantic experience. Consider dropping by Kamogawa Nouryou-Yuka when visiting Kyoto in the summer. 【Official Website】Kyoto Kamogawa Nouryou-Yuka https://yuka-kyoto.com/ 【TripAdvisor】Kamogawa https://www.tripadvisor.com/Tourism-g1021271-Kamogawa_Chiba_Prefecture_Kanto-Vacations.html

The Breathtaking Cherry Blossoms of Mt. Yoshino This video, titled "Yoshino Cherry Blossoms 吉野山の桜 [8K]," was uploaded by "Japan Explorers." Enjoy the beautiful cherry blossoms of Mt. Yoshino in high-quality 8K video, that truly captures the scenery of Japan. Mt. Yoshino, introduced in the video, is a generic name for the ridge of mountains leading from the south bank of the Yoshino River to the Omine Mountain Range in the town of Yoshino in Yoshino County, Nara Prefecture, located in Japan's Kansai region. There is also a theory that it is the name of a wide area dotted with temples and shrines, centering on Kinpusenji Temple. The area around Mt. Yoshino is said to be a famous place for flowers, not just their famous cherry blossoms, and there are even records that tell of Toyotomi Hideyoshi visiting for cherry blossom viewing. From 1:29 in the video, you can see the beautiful cherry blossoms in full bloom in front of the main hall of Kinpusenji Temple (Zao Hall), a World Heritage Site. Yoshinoyama is usually at its best from early to mid-April; in 2023, the cherry blossoms were in full bloom from March 30 to April 3, earlier than usual. Why not check the blooming status and visit this spring? When is the best time to view the cherry blossoms at Yoshinoyama? Why is it called the best cherry blossom viewing spot in Japan? Photo：The Senbonzakura of Mt. Yoshino, Yoshino, Nara There are many famous places for cherry blossom viewing in Japan, and all of them have splendid views of cherry blossoms worthy of a title, but there's a good reason why the cherry blossoms of Mt. Yoshino are said to be "the best in Japan." The vocaloid masterpiece "Senbonzakura" (千本桜, lit. One Thousand Cherry Blossoms) is said to have been inspired by the thousand cherry blossoms of Mt. Yoshino. Moreover, from the beginning to the end of April, the cherry blossoms bloom up the mountain in ascending order starting with the thousand at the foot of the mountain, followed by the thousand of the middle section, the thousand at the peak of the mountain, and finally the thousand in the deeper reaches of the mountain. In other words, it can be said that Mt. Yoshino is worthy of the title "No. 1 in Japan" simply because it allows for cherry blossom viewing for an entire month. Yoshino-Kumano National Park, which includes Mt. Yoshino, is designated as a National Place of Scenic Beauty and a historic site, and Mt. Yoshino is also included in the "Sacred Sites and Pilgrimage Routes in the Kii Mountain Range," a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Naturally, it has also been selected as one of the " Top 100 Places to View Cherry Blossoms in Japan." The History of Mt. Yoshino, the Most Famous Place to View Cherry Blossoms in Japan Photo：The Yoshino Ropeway, Yoshino, Nara The history of cherry blossoms on Mt. Yoshino dates back more than a thousand years with documents mentioning the cherry blossoms of Mt. Yoshino as far back as the Heian period (794-1185). Since the Yoshino Cherry, which bears the name "Yoshino," is an ornamental cherry tree that was refined during the Edo period (1603-1868 A.D.), there are many more varieties planted on Mt. Yoshino, and it is said that there are approximately 30,000 of them covering the entirety of the mountain. The reason why Mt. Yoshino became a famous place for cherry blossoms is that cherry blossoms were considered to be the sacred tree of Zao Gongen, a mountain deity of Shugendo, an ancient religion in Japan. It is said that En no Ozuno, considered the founder of Shugendo, practiced asceticism on Mt. Kinpu and attained enlightenment through the manifestation of the bodhisattva Zao Gongen. At that time, they carved a statue of the bodhisattva Zao Gongen out of a cherry tree and worshipped it, and it became a custom for mountain ascetics in the past to carve a statue of Zao Gongen out of a cherry tree on Mt. Yoshino. As a result, cherry trees were planted all over the mountain, and it became a popular topic of conversation among commoners as a place where they could view thousands of splendid cherry blossoms in one location, making it the most famous cherry blossom viewing location in Japan. Furthermore, the Yoshino Ropeway, the oldest ropeway in Japan, is another must-see location for cherry blossom viewing. It was founded in 1929 and has a history of more than 90 years. The pillars, built in 1928 when the ropeway opened, are in use even now, showcasing the high-level Japanese architectural technology, even at that time. The Recommended Route for Cherry Blossom Viewing on Mt. Yoshino Photo：Senbonzakura seen from the Hanayagura Observatory, Yoshino, Nara Mt. Yoshino is a place for leisurely enjoyment that can be enjoyed throughout all of Japan's four seasons. You can enjoy not only the cherry blossom season, but also autumn leaves, early summer hydrangeas, snowy winter scenery, the hot springs of Yoshino, temples and shrines, and even quiet places to go for a walk through the forests of Yoshino. In particular, the recommended route for viewing the cherry blossoms is from Yoshino Station to Saigyoan. On the way you'll see: ・Kumoi-no-Sakura (雲井の桜) ・Takizakura (滝桜) ・Nunobiki-no-Sakura (布引の桜) ・Tennin-no-Sakura (天人桜) ・Yumemizakura (夢見桜) ・Goshozakura (御所桜) ・Arashiyama-no-Sakura (嵐山の桜) ・Sekiyazakura (関屋桜) ・Yonhonzakura (四本桜) ・Senbonzakura (千本桜) ・Hanazonosan-no-Sakura (花園山の桜) These are the famous places you can stop by where many wild cherry trees can be seen in full bloom. In addition, the views from Hanayagura Observatory and Shimosenbon Observatory at an elevation of about 600m, showcase a panoramic view of 30,000 cherry blossoms of around 200 different species! When they're in full bloom, they're lit up and you can enjoy spectacular views of cherry blossoms at night. Since Mt. Yoshino covers a large area, it's also recommended as a driving course for private vehicles, rental cars, and buses. Summary of Mt. Yoshino, the Most Famous Place to View Cherry Blossoms in Japan In this article, we introduced some of the history and highlights of Mt. Yoshino alongside the video showcasing the cherry blossoms in full bloom. We hope you enjoyed it! There are many other attractions around Mt. Yoshino, such as Zao Hall, and Yoshimizu Shrine, both World Heritage Sites. Also, since it was originally a sacred place for Shugendo, there are plenty of accommodation facilities, such as Sakuramotobou (桜本坊) that were originally for mountain ascetics. Please check the official website of the Mt. Yoshino Tourism Association for directions to Mt. Yoshino, parking information, bloom forecasts, and more. The mascot character "Pinkle" chan will guide you! 【Official Website】Mt. Yoshino Tourist Association, Nara Prefecture http://www.yoshinoyama-sakura.jp/english/ 【TripAdvisor】Mt. Yoshino https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g1121327-d1384139-Reviews-Mt_Yoshino-Yoshino_cho_Yoshino_gun_Nara_Prefecture_Kinki.html

Katsuoji Temple, Minoh, Osaka: Video Introduction Photo：Hydrangeas at Katsuoji Temple, Minoh, Osaka This video, titled "Katsuoji Temple, a beautiful temple of Kachi Daruma in Minoh, Osaka, Japan" (勝ちダルマの勝尾寺｜大阪箕面市の美しいお寺 - Katsuo-ji Temple（Osaka、 Japan）), was uploaded by "BURARI JAPAN." This 5-minute video shows Okiyome Bridge which leads to the temple gate of Katsuoji Temple, along with fog, the beautiful contrast of green trees and red-colored architecture on the temple grounds, and the many Daruma dolls placed throughout the temple. Be sure to check out the video, which was shot during hydrangea season on the temple grounds, to see the temple in Osaka, Japan known for luck in victory. Katsuoji Temple – The History & Name of the Temple and Its Unique Kachi Daruma Dolls Photo：Spring at Katsuoji Temple, Minoh, Osaka Katsuoji Temple, which is known for its kachi daruma ('kachi' meaning victory, and 'daruma' being dolls modeled after Bodhidharma that are symbols of good luck), dates back to the Nara Period (710-794 A.D.) in Japan. The temple was founded in 775 under the name Mirokuji Temple. The sixth head priest, Gyojun, used the power of Buddhism to cure Emperor Seiwa, who was ill, through prayer. For this reason, the temple was given the name "Katsuoji Temple" (勝王寺) meaning "the temple that defeated the king" (勝: Win, 王: King, 寺: Temple) (referring to the temple having better healers than the imperial palace). However, out of a sense of humility, Gyojun changed the "王" (King) to "尾" (Tail) and called the temple "Katsuoji Temple" without changing the pronunciation. However, despite this, the temple still gradually came to be known for blessings of luck in victory. The "Katsu" (勝: Win) in "Katsuoji" has the meaning of "facing oneself" and "defeating oneself," which is consistent with Bodhidharma's idea of zazen Buddhism. Therefore, it is said that the temple adopted the kachi daruma, a daruma doll with the character "勝" (kachi 'victory') on its belly. Many people visit Katsuoji Temple to pray for success in entrance examinations, employment, and prosperous business. The Meaning of Daruma, How Much they Cost, and How to Use Them Photo：Daruma dolls at Katsuoji Temple, Minoh, Osaka Kachi daruma have the meaning of "victory over oneself" and "to fall down 7 times, but get back up 8." It represents a pledge to fulfill the wish written on the daruma doll within one year from the date the wish is written on it. Kachi daruma dolls range in price from 2,000 to 200,000 yen ($15-$150). After receiving the daruma and writing your goal(s) for the year on the back and your life goals on the bottom, light incense sticks filled with your thoughts and let the smoke seep into the daruma. Make a vow to make every effort to achieve your goals, and draw an eye in the daruma doll's right eye. After taking it home, place it in a place where you can see it. Then, either when you achieve your goal or one year later, dedicate it to Katsuoji Temple. If you are successful, draw in the left eye, and if not, leave it blank and go to the main hall to report your progress and express your gratitude. [Video] 2:02 - Dedicating a Daruma Katsuoji Temple – Beautiful Autumn Leaves and Nighttime Illuminations Photo：Benten Hall and autumn leaves at the pond, Katsuoji Temple, Minoh, Osaka Every year in early November, visitors can enjoy the autumn leaves at Katsuoji Temple. The temple grounds, which extend from the temple gate, beautiful shades of red and yellow, and are enhanced by the greenery of the surrounding mountains. The temple is also illuminated at night, and the views looking up at the pagoda are simply breathtaking. Other spots to check out at Katsuoji Temple are as follows: ●Sanmon Gate - Okiyome Bridge - Benten Hall - The Two-Story Pagoda From Okiyome Bridge, after passing through the temple gate, you'll find the two-story pagoda and Benten Hall. The autumn leaves and buildings reflected on the surface of the water together with the mist around Okiyome Bridge create a magical atmosphere. [Video] 0:05 - Sanmon Gate, Okiyome Bridge, and Benten Hall ●The Approach to the Main Hall and Nikaido (the fifth sacred site of Honen, the founder of Pure Land Buddhism) The approach to the main hall and Nikaido is like a tunnel of autumn leaves. It's a special space that can be seen only during a limited period of time. [Video] 2:56 - The Main Hall of Katsuoji Temple ●The View From Nikaido Nikaido is located on a hill and offers a panoramic view of the entire temple grounds. The view from Nikaido is different from looking up at the autumn leaves, and is unique to Katsuoji Temple. How to Get to Katsuoji Temple Photo：Near Osaka Station Here is how you can get to Katsuoji Temple from various locations in Osaka. Katsuoji Temple From Osaka Station: 40-50 mins Take the subway from JR Osaka Station to Senri-Chuo Station (~20 mins), and from there, take a bus (~30 mins) or taxi (~20 mins) to Katsuoji Temple. Alternatively, you can the train from Osaka Station to Ishibashi Handai-mae Station (~16 mins), then take a train to Minoo Station (~6 mins), and from Mino Station take a bus (~30 mins) or taxi (~20 mins) to Katsuoji Temple. Katsuoji Temple From Osaka International Airport: 30-60 mins To get to Katsuoji Temple from Osaka International Airport, take the monorail (~3mins) or bus (~20 mins) to Hotarugaike Station, and from there take the monorail, take the monorail to Senri-Chuo Station (~9 mins). From there take a bus (~33 mins) or taxi (~20 mins) to Katsuoji Temple. Other Things to Do Near Katsuoji Temple Photo：Autumn colors at Minoh Falls, Minoh, Osaka Since Katsuoji Temple is located a ways from the city, there isn't a ton of stuff to do in the immediate area. That being said, it is located somewhat close to Minoh Falls. Minoh Falls Minoh Park has two entrances: one on the back side of the park, and the other close to the city of Osaka. From either entrance, it's an approximately 45-minute walk to the waterfall, meaning you can either hike to Minoh Falls from the city and then hike to Katsuoji Temple afterwards, or visit Katsuoji Temple first, hike to Minoh Falls, and then hike back to the entrance near Minoo Station. Minoh Park is especially beautiful during autumn when the leaves have changed color, so if you're visiting during this time, we highly recommend checking it out. Hours: Open 24 hours Admission Fee: Free Summary of Katsuoji Temple and Its Kachi Daruma Dolls Photo：Daruma dolls at Katsuoji Temple, Minoh, Osaka Did you watch the video of Minoh, Osaka's Katsuoji Temple? The temple is full of things to see and do, from its rich natural scenery and quaint atmosphere to the overflowing daruma dolls on the kachi daruma dedication racks. Katsuoji Temple also sells daruma dolls with omikuji (fortunes) inside, so be sure to purchase one and display it on a shelf at home! During the special nighttime illumination period in the fall, when the autumn leaves are in season, the temple is visited by people from all over Japan, and the approach to the main hall and the Nikaido Hall attracts many visitors every year to see the tunnel of autumn leaves. Although there is a parking lot at Katsuoji Temple, you should consider taking a taxi from Minoo Station, as it will inevitably be crowded when the autumn leaves are in season. There's a ton of things to do at Katsuoji Temple, and it's a recommended spot where you can enjoy the beautiful scenery of Japan. Why not visit spring and early summer at the shrine are also great times to visit, so be sure to consider it! 【Official Website】Katsuoji Temple 【TripAdvisor】Katsuoji Temple

Harukas 300 – The Abeno Harukas Observatory: Video Introduction Photo：Abeno Harukas and an 'OSAKA' sign This video, titled "Night View from Harukas 300, the Abeno Harukas Observatory, Osaka, Japan) (あべのハルカス展望台 ハルカス300からの大阪夜景), was uploaded by "Night Movie Channel of Osaka Japan." At 300 meters (984 ft.) tall, Abeno Harukas, which opened in March 2014, is the tallest skyscraper in Japan. The skyscraper is located in the Abeno Ward of Osaka City. The Abeno Harukas observation deck, named Harukas 300, is located on floor 58-60 of Abeno Harukas. The night view from Harukas 300 is known as a spectacular spot from which to view the entire city of Osaka. Be sure to check it on in the video as you read on! 　[Video] 0:07 - Abeno Harukas 　[Video] 0:58 - Night View of Osaka From the Observatory Gallery at Harukas 300 　[Video] 4:50 - Harukas 300's Sky Garden More About Harukas 300, the Abeno Harukas Observatory Photo：People enjoying the view from Harukas 300, the observation deck of Abeno Harukas Abeno Harukas is a 60-story skyscraper completed in 2014 in the Abeno Ward of Osaka City. The name Abeno Harukas is derived from the name of the Abeno district where it is located, and the ancient word harukasu, meaning "to clear the skies." Because of its diverse facilities, such as department stores, restaurants, museums, offices, hotels, and observation decks, all housed in one city-like area, Abeno Harukas has become a popular tourist attraction in Osaka. Abeno Harukas' observatory, Harukas 300, is Japan's tallest tower at 300 meters (984 ft.) and consists of three levels on the 58th, 59th, and 60th floors. Many tourists visit the observatory every day to catch a glimpse of the breathtaking view. The observatory gallery, located on the top floor of Harukas 300, is made completely of glass, giving visitors the unique sensation that they're walking on air. From the corridor, visitors can enjoy a panoramic view of central Osaka, Osaka Bay, and Mt. Ikoma. In addition, if the weather permits it, you can even see Mt. Rokko, Kyoto, Akashi Kaikyo Bridge, Awaji Island, Mt. Ikoma, and Kansai International Airport. In addition to the observatory gallery, there is an outdoor area called Sky Garden which is surrounded by plants, making it a great place to relax. Various events are held here as well. There are also cafés, restaurants, and stores inside the observatory, where you can enjoy a meal or a drink along with the view. Harukas 300 Tickets, Discounts, and Free Gardens Photo：Abeno Harukas Admission to Harukas 300 is 1,500 yen for adults, 1,200 yen for junior high and high school students, 700 yen for elementary school students, 500 yen for young children, and free for children under 3 years of age. Visitors with disabilities and groups can enter at a discounted rate. Same-day tickets can be purchased at the ticket counter on the 16th floor of Abeno Harukas on a first-come, first-served basis. If you are traveling from far away, you can purchase advance vouchers or e-tickets to shorten your wait time. Advance vouchers can be purchased at Kintetsu Station sales offices, and e-tickets can be purchased online in advance. Both are valid for 30 days from the date of purchase. Harukas 300 1-day tickets, which allow re-entry into the facility, are 1,950 yen for adults, 1,650 yen for junior high and high school students, 950 yen for elementary school students, 750 yen for young children, and free for children under 3 years of age. In addition, Harukas Wing Garden, located on the 10th floor rooftop of Abeno Harukas' Wing Building, is an area with free admission and benches to sit and rest. Events and other events are held in the space, and in winter there are also illuminations. Enjoy the Night View at Harukas 300 With the Heliport Tour! Photo：The night view from Harukas 300, the observation deck of Abeno Harukas Abeno Harukas also has a heliport on its rooftop. Here you can enjoy the Harukas 300 Heliport Tour. The attraction of this tour is that you can monopolize the spectacular view from 300 meters above the ground, the highest point in Japan, while feeling the wind on your skin. Heliport tours are conducted 15 times a day, but we particularly recommend the nighttime tour. The nighttime heliport tours allow you to enjoy a beautiful night view of Osaka in a romantic atmosphere. A Dinner Date With a View – Restaurants at Abeno Harukas Photo：The night view from Harukas 300, the observation deck of Abeno Harukas There are a number of restaurants at Abeno Harukas with beautiful night views that are great for a date. Here are three restaurants at Abeno Harukas that we recommend for dinner. ●Restaurant ZK in Osaka Marriott Miyako Hotel - 57th Floor Osaka Marriott Miyako Hotel is located on the upper floors of Abeno Harukas. Restaurant ZK is located on the 57th floor, the top floor, and promises a beautiful view of the city of Osaka. The menu is characterized by its fusion of Japanese and Western ingredients. ●BAR PLUS in Osaka Marriott Miyako Hotel - 19th Floor An open bar located on the 19th floor front lobby of the Osaka Marriott Miyako Hotel. It offers a variety of light meals and alcoholic beverages, making it an elegant place to enjoy a night out. ●Aloha Table Abeno Harukas Dining - 14th Floor Aloha Table is an open-plan restaurant divided into a café/dining area and a bar space. The carefully selected interior and Hawaiian music create a relaxing space that will make you feel as though you've taken a trip to Hawaii. Unlike the bright scenery during the day, you can enjoy the beautiful night view of Osaka in the calm lighting at night. Enjoy the beautiful night view as well as the gastronomic delights at the various restaurants at Abeno Harukas. We recommend making reservations in advance if you're interested in a window seat. Things to Do at Abeno Harukas Photo：The view from the glass floor of Harukas 300, the Abeno Harukas observation deck Abeno Harukas houses numerous tourist attractions and hosts a wide variety of events. For example, EDGE THE HARUKAS is a newly built attraction at the top of the building, 300 meters above the ground. Visitors can enjoy walking along the edge of the building with a lifeline attached to them. The Abeno Harukas Art Museum, conveniently located within Abeno Harukas, has a high ceiling and 880 square meters of exhibition space. The museum hosts a variety of temporary exhibits, including both Asian and Western art and a wide range of art events are held here. The museum is popular among locals and tourists alike. Things to Do Near Abeno Harukas Photo：Shitennoji Temple in Osaka Below is a list of tourist attractions we recommend checking out near Abeno Harukas. Shitennoji Temple Founded in 593, Shitennoji Temple is one of, if not the, oldest temple in Japan. It was founded by Prince Shotoku, a legendary figure in Japanese history. The temple is home to a 5-story pagoda, a lovely garden where you can enjoy cherry blossoms in spring, and the temple hosts a variety of events throughout the year. Hours: Temple/Central Temple/Garden: 8:30 am - 4:30 pm (April - September), 8:30 am - 4:00 pm (October - March) ※Besides the areas listed above, the gate for Shitennoji Temple is open 24 hours. Tsutenkaku Tower One of the most famous landmarks in Osaka, the original Tsutenkaku Tower was built in 1912, although it was destroyed by a fire in 1943 and rebuilt in 1956. The Tower Slider, a 60-meter-long slide, is a new attraction that visitors can enjoy at the tower. Hours: 10:00 am - 8:00 pm (7:30 pm last admission) Admission Fee: Adults: 900 yen, Children (ages 5 to junior high school students): 400 yen. ※Discounts are available for groups of 10 or more. Tennoji Zoo Tennoji Zoo opened in 1915 and is home to a variety of animals, including polar bears, penguins, giraffes, lions, etc. Hours: 9:30 am - 5:00 pm Admission Fee: Adults: 500 yen, Junior high and elementary school students: 200 yen, Preschoolers and younger: Free How to Get to Abeno Harukas Photo：Tennoji Station, Osaka There are a number of ways to get to Abeno Harukas depending on where you're coming from; below we'll introduce a few of them. Osaka International Airport to Abeno Harukas If you're traveling to Japan and will be landing in Osaka, or will be leaving Japan via Osaka International Airport, this is far and away the simplest way to get to Abeno Harukas. There is a scheduled limousine bus to Abeno Harukas that departs every 30 minutes from Osaka International Airport. The bus will take you to Osaka Abenobashi Station and from there it's a 5-minute walk to Abeno Harukas. That same limousine bus departs from Abeno Harukas for Osaka International airport every 30 minutes as well. The bus ride is 30 minutes each way and costs 650 yen per person. Kansai International Airport to Abeno Harukas From Kansai International Airport, you can take the Haruka 34 limited express train to Tennoji Station and from there it's a 2-minute walk to Abeno Harukas. Just like the limousine bus from Osaka International Airport, this train is scheduled every 30 minutes, but the fare is 2,370 yen per person. Kyoto to Abeno Harukas To get to Abeno Harukas from Kyoto, it's a 45-minute train ride via the Haruka 37 limited express train which will take you from Kyoto Station to Tennoji Station. The fare is 2,680 yen per person. From anywhere else in Japan, the easiest way to get to Abeno Harukas is to head towards Tennoji Station, the nearest station, and from there walk to Abeno Harukas. Summary of Abeno Harukas Photo：The view from the observatory of Abeno Harukas The observation deck Harukas 300 is located on the top floor of Abeno Harukas, the tallest skyscraper in Japan. The view from 300 meters (984 ft.) above the ground is breathtaking, offering a panoramic view of Osaka City and the surrounding landscape. From couples to family trips, Abeno Harukas can be enjoyed in all kinds of ways. Be it a date or other special occasion, why not enjoy a meal at Harukas 300 while viewing a beautiful night view of Osaka? 【Official Website】Abeno Harukas　 【TripAdvisor】Abeno Harukas

Video Introduction of “Alley Aquarium” in Ponto-cho, Kyoto City, Kyoto Prefecture, Japan This video, titled "The Back Alley Aquarium of Pontocho" (先斗町　路地裏水族館), was uploaded by "KETO room." The most famous aquarium in Kyoto is Kyoto Aquarium located in Umekoji Park in Shimogyo, Kyoto, but did you know that there's actually an aquarium tucked away in Pontocho, one of Kyoto's famous geisha districts? The name of the aquarium is Roji Suizokukan (路地水族館, lit. Alley Aquarium). In this article, we'll introduce the unique aquarium, a popular tourist attraction in Kyoto, along with the streets of Pontocho. Pontocho, a Geisha District of Kyoto and Home to the Back-Alley Aquarium Photo：Pontocho, Kyoto Pontocho is an entertainment district located in Nakagyo, Kyoto, famous as a historic "hanamachi" (a district where geisha live and work) that has existed since Japan's Edo period (1603-1868 A.D.) Along its 550-meter-long street, there are many long-established traditional Japanese restaurants, establishments where geisha offer entertainment to guests, and a wide variety of other restaurants. The name Pontocho (先斗町) is actually said to originate from the Portuguese word "ponto," meaning "bridge," and the Japanese word "cho," meaning "town." Despite "cho" meaning "town" in Japanese, Pontocho is not a town at all, but rather a long, narrow street along Kyoto's Kamo River. Pontocho is a 5-minute walk from Kawaramachi Station on the Hankyu Line, or a 3-minute walk from Gion-Shijo Station on the Keihan Line. If you take the Tozai Subway Line and get off at Keihan Sanjo Station, you can reach Pontocho in 5 minutes on foot. Highlights of the Alley Aquarium in Pontocho, Kyoto Photo：Oryzias The entrance to Pontocho is to your right, just after crossing Shijo Ohashi Bridge and passing a police box, but it's a narrow street, so it's easy to miss if you're not careful. In a corner of an alleyway in Pontocho is the Alley Aquarium, a unique spot in Kyoto where you can see goldfish, oryzias, and koi swimming leisurely in tanks and bowls of various sizes along an alleyway less than one meter wide. Because it's located in an alley, the aquarium can be viewed in the morning or at night without having to worry about business hours, which is another attraction of the back-alley aquarium. When the sun begins to set, the aquarium is lit up and becomes a photogenic space. The fantastic atmosphere is great for taking Instagram photos. Another great point is that admission is free. A donation box to help pay for food, which has an illustration of the aquarium's director, Rakko san (Mr. Sea Otter), is located at the entrance of the Alley Aquarium, so if you want to help out, feel free to drop him a donation. The Alley Aquarium grew in popularity after being posted on Japanese social media, and since then it has become a unique thing to do in Kyoto. The director's cute signboard can be seen in various spots throughout the Alley Aquarium. [Video] 0:53 - Donation Box [Video] 1:04 - Sea Otter Director's Cute Sign Pyon Pyoko Pyon – A Cute Trinket Shop in Pontocho For Souvenirs Photo：Goldfish The couple behind the alley aquarium is the owner and operator of Usagi no Atorie Pyon Pyoko Pyon. Pyon Pyoko Pyon is a store in an alley in Pontocho that sells rabbit-themed goods, and the store is filled with rabbit tableware, chopstick rests, and other trinkets. The mascots of the store are Usakichi and Chibikichi, two Shigaraki-ware bunnies dressed in seasonal costumes, which help visitors feel relaxed and at home. You can also check the store's information on Instagram @pontocho.usagiya. After enjoying the old-fashioned atmosphere and ambience of Pontocho and relaxing with the colorful fish swimming in the alley aquarium, be sure to stop by Pyon Pyoko Pyon to get some souvenirs of your travels to Kyoto. [Video] 0:58 - Goldfish Swimming in an Aquarium [Video] 2:32 - The Elegant Atmosphere of Pontocho The Best Restaurants in Pontocho Photo：Kamogawa Noryodoko, Kyoto Kamogawa Noryodoko, a row of kawadoko (elevated platforms that sit above a reiver) along the Kamogawa River, is a summer tradition in Kyoto. Although many of the kawadoko that line Kyoto's Kamogawa River are expensive, there are actually a number of restaurants where you can enjoy the kawadoko for a reasonable price. One such place is "mag," a relaxing café tucked away in an alley, that's popular for its cute latte art. It's the perfect place to take a breather. After savoring a delicious cup of coffee at "mag," located inside an alley between Kiyamachi and Pontocho, you can enjoy a casual kawadoko experience at Ponto-cho Robin. Although a more casual experience, the restaurant is reasonably priced and is a great way to experience the Kyoto summer tradition. While the number of terrace-type restaurants has been increasing in recent years, the traditional kawadoko style at Pontocho Robin, where you can relax and stretch your legs, has great reviews. The kawadoko lunch at Pontocho Robin is available until the end of September. [Video] 2:46 - Kamogawa River Kawadoko, a Summer Tradition in Kyoto Appearing at the end of the video is the popular Kyoto Sanjo Ohashi Starbucks Coffee, which also offers kawadoko seating. You can enjoy the starry skies from Kyoto and the sound of the river while relaxing at night here. [Video] 3:03 - Kyoto Sanjo Ohashi Starbucks Other popular restaurants in Pontocho are the izakaya Pontocho Sakaba, and the Michelin Guide restaurant Pontocho Masuda, but there are many more places to grab a bite to eat, so don't be afraid to look around. In 2023, Kyoto's kawadoko are scheduled to be set up from May to September. Be sure to check them out if you're visiting Kyoto! Things to Do Near Pontocho There are a number exciting things to do near Pontocho, but our personal recommendation is the stretch between Pontocho and Maruyama Park, as the area has many things to do, making it an efficient way to spend your time. Maruyama Park Maruyama Park is located 10-15 minutes from Pontocho and is home to the beautiful Yasaka Shrine, as well as Chionin Temple and Shorenin Temple, two temples with breathtaking gardens. The park is famous for its cherry blossoms during the spring, so if you're visiting when they're in bloom, definitely check them out. Additionally, the walk to Maruyama Park will take you across the famous Shijo Ohashi Bridge, and along Shijo Dori, a street full of restaurants, souvenir shops, and tons of other interesting places. Here, you'll also find Hanamikoji Street, another popular geisha district in Kyoto with historic buildings and an atmosphere that seems to have been frozen in time. Minamiza Kakubi Theatre Minamiza Kakubi Theatre, located just across Shijo Ohashi Bridge, between Pontocho and Maruyama Park, is the last of 7 kabuki theatres that once existed in Kyoto. The theatre dates back 400 years, and kabuki performances are still held at the theatre regularly. If you're interested in Japanese performing arts, or just want to see what a Japanese play is like, definitely check it out. The theatre does have English headsets available for non-Japanese audiences, but not for all performances, so be sure to check the official website for more information. Summary of the Alley Aquarium in Kyoto's Pontocho Located in Pontocho, the Alley Aquarium is a unique tourist attraction in Kyoto, tucked away in the elegant streets of the town. You can see a variety of colorful fish swimming in aquariums and pots of all sizes, and at night the aquarium is lit up, giving it a fantastic atmosphere. The couple behind the alley aquarium is the same couple who run the trinket shop Pyon Pyoko Pyon, and their cute rabbit-themed goods make great souvenirs. There are also a number of restaurants in Pontocho where you can enjoy kawadoko along the Kamo River. If you're traveling in Kyoto and looking for things to do, consider checking out the Alley Aquarium in Pontocho. It's also great for dates! For the latest information, be sure to check out the Alley Aquarium on Instagram @rakko_aqua_pontocho. 【TripAdvisor】Pontocho

■Table of Contents Osaka Tourist Attractions: Video Introduction The 28 Best Things to Do in Osaka - Dotonbori - Universal Studios Japan - Osaka Castle - Osaka Castle Park - Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan - Shinsaibashisuji Shopping Street - Sumiyoshi Taisha Shrine - Shitennoji Temple - Kuromon Market - Tempozan Ferris Wheel - Osaka Museum of History - Tenjinbashi-suji Shopping Street - Osaka Museum of Housing and Living - Kamigata Ukiyoe Museum - Umeda Sky Building - Osaka Cupnoodles Museum - Spa World - Tsutenkaku & Shinsekai - Abeno Harukas - Osaka Station City - Namba Yasaka Shrine - Osaka Expo Park - Ohatsu Tenjin Shrine - Minoh Falls and Minoh Park - National Bunraku Theatre - Osaka Science Museum - Tenjin Matsuri (Tenjin Festival) - Den Den Town 5 Unique Experiences to Try in Osaka - Samurai and Ninja Experience - Ceramic Art Experience - Street Go-Kart Experience - Noh Experience - Tea Ceremony Experience The Minami Area of Osaka Summary of Things to Do in Osaka Osaka Tourist Attractions: Video Introduction This video, titled "[Osaka Travel Vlog] Osaka Travel - Popular Spots? & Delicious Food? #Day1" (【大阪 観光Vlog】大阪 旅行 人気スポット・グルメ?を満喫? #Day1), was uploaded by "Shindy Life." Osaka is one of Japan's largest cities, on par even with Tokyo. Osaka is also known as a town of warm-hearted people who cherish laughter and value the bonds they form with others. The video introduces some of the most popular spots in Osaka, including Sennichimae Shopping Street, Namba Grand Kagetsu, and Shinsekai, where the famous landmark, Tsutenkaku Tower, is located. Osaka is also known as the food capital of Japan, and is famous for its delicious cuisine. You can find tasty dishes at places like "JAPANESE TAVERN NAGAHAMA" (大衆酒場 ながはま) and "Yamazaki Gyoza" (餃子の山﨑) which also appear in the video. Before reading further, experience what it's like to travel to Osaka via the video. You're sure to want to visit Osaka after watching it! The 28 Best Things to Do in Osaka There are so many tourist attractions in Osaka that it's easy to be overwhelmed and not know where to go. Below, we've compiled a list of the 27 best things to do when touring Osaka. You're sure to find a place that's to your liking! We hope this list can help you enjoy your trip to Osaka! Photo：Dotonbori, Osaka Dotonbori Osaka is THE place to be if you're looking to experience the rich food culture of Japan. One of the most famous culinary spots in Osaka is Dotonbori. This street is line with famous restaurants such as "Kani Doraku," a restaurant known for its delicious seafood and the large crab that adorns the main entrance. Takohachi (たこ八) and Takoyaki Doraku Wanaka (たこ焼きたこ焼き道楽和　わなか) are two famous takoyaki restaurants offering "takosen," a popular snack made of takoyaki sandwiched between shrimp-flavored rice crackers! You can also enjoy pork buns from "551 Horai," a restaurant in Japan famous for its unique commercials. If you visit Dotonbori, don't forget to take a photo in front of the large Glico sign seen from Ebisu Bridge while enjoying the food. It's the most iconic photo spot in Osaka! Universal Studios Japan Universal Studios Japan is the most popular theme park in Japan's Kansai region. It features both Harry Potter- and Spiderman-themed areas, and visitors can enjoy rides based on Hollywood movies. The park is full of attractions with characters from popular movies and shows that both children and adults alike can enjoy. Tickets can be purchased from the official website, but some travel agencies also offer package plans that include tickets and a one-day pass to Hotel Universal Port, the official hotel of Universal Studios Japan. A Video Article Related to Universal Studios Japan Video article 1:03 The Beauty of Universal Studio Japan's Christmas Tree, Officially Recognized in the Guinness Book of World Records, Will Take Your Breath Away YouTube Osaka Castle Osaka Castle is a symbol of Osaka and attracts many tourists each year. It is also loved by the local people, and is known for having been built by Toyotomi Hideyoshi, a famous Japanese warlord. The castle tower has a heroic presence, and was reconstructed in 1931 with donations from the citizens of Osaka. Since its reconstruction, the castle has been used as a history museum, displaying a wealth of cultural assets related to the Sengoku Period (1467-1615 AD) and Toyotomi Hideyoshi. The observatory also offers a view of Osaka's modern skyscrapers. An admission fee of 600 yen is charged to visit the Osaka Castle Keep, which serves as a history museum. A Video Article Related to Osaka Castle Video article 3:35 Osaka Castle - Built by Toyotomi Hideyoshi, the Second Great Unifier of Japan, in Osaka! Learn About the History of the Warring States Period Through Famous Swords and Armor! YouTube Osaka Castle Park Osaka Castle Park is an urban park with Osaka Castle at its center. With a view of the historical Osaka Castle Keep, Osaka Castle Park is a popular place for tourists and citizens of Osaka to relax and enjoy the flowers of Japan's four seasons. In the spring, visitors can enjoy the plum grove with 1,270 plum trees of some 100 varieties, the cherry blossoms of Nishinomaru Garden with approximately 300 cherry trees, and the colorful autumn leaves of the ginkgo trees in the fall. Other events, such as music concerts, are held at Osaka Castle Band Shell and Osaka-Jo Hall. A Video Article Related to Osaka Castle Video article 3:17 The Best Spots and Times to View the Plum Blossoms at Osaka Castle Park! Discover the Symbol of Osaka, Japan in Spring! YouTube Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan is a must-see tourist attraction for families sightseeing in Osaka. One of the world's largest aquariums, Kaiyukan reproduces the natural environment of the Pacific Ocean, with 30,000 plants and animals of 620 varieties on display. Of particular note is the giant tank, which is 9 meters deep and 34 meters long, reproducing the environment of the Pacific Ocean, where large stingrays, migratory fish, and the symbol of Kaiyukan, the whale shark, can be seen swimming at their leisure. Whale sharks can be seen only in four places in Japan, one of which is Kaiyukan. Shinsaibashisuji Shopping Street Shinsaibashisuji Shopping Street stretches 580 meters from north to south and is a leading attraction in Osaka's Minami district. It's lined with approximately 180 stores, including Daimaru, a Japanese department store chain, as well as clothing stores, and restaurants. The historic shopping street, which has existed since the Edo Period (1603-1868), is now a highly popular tourist attraction among both locals and foreign tourists alike. It's also a recommended spot for those looking to enjoy Osaka's rich food culture, including Osaka's famous takoyaki (fried balls of octopus), okonomiyaki (savory Japanese-style pancakes), and kushikatsu (deep-fried skewered pork cutlets). To get there, simply get off at Shinsaibashi Station from the subway. It's an arcade shopping street, so it's the perfect place to go even when the weather is bad. Sumiyoshi Taisha Shrine Photo：Sumiyoshi Taisha Shrine, Osaka Sumiyoshi Taisha is so popular that it's said to be synonymous with Hatsumode (the first temple or shrine visit of the New Year) in Osaka. The historical Sumiyoshi Taisha Shrine, which dates back to 211 AD, is full of interesting sights. Historically intriguing spots await you, such as Sorihashi Bridge, which is approximately 20m long, 3.6m tall, and 5.5m wide, the unusual torii gate with square pillars, and the four main shrines, which are designated as National Treasures. Shitennoji Temple Photo：Shitennoji Temple, Osaka Shitennoji Temple was built as the first state-sponsored temple of Japanese Buddhism. It's a popular spot because it was built by the famous Prince Shotoku. Lining the temple grounds are a number of beautiful vermilion-lacquered buildings reminiscent of the Asuka Period (circa 592-710 AD). Niomon Gate, the five-storied pagoda, Kondo Hall (the main temple hall), and Kodo Hall (the lecture hall) are stunningly beautiful. Many of them are designated as Important Cultural Properties or National Treasures, so they are recommended spots for history buffs as well. It's also said to bring good luck in academics, good health, and children rearing, so be sure to pay a visit! Kuromon Market Photo：Kuromon Market, Osaka The market is called Kuromon Market (黒門市場, lit. "Black Gate Market") because the gate of Enmyouji Temple–located near the market–was black. The 580-meter-long shopping street is lined with approximately 150 stores, and is a place where one can experience firsthand the lively atmosphere of Osaka. In addition to takoyaki and okonomiyaki, there is a wide variety of delicious food to be enjoyed, including seafood skewers, tuna croquettes and other snacks, as well as fresh juices, matcha ice cream, and other delicacies. If you want to enjoy Osaka, the street food capital of Japan, to the fullest, Kuromon Market is a must! Tempozan Ferris Wheel The Tempozan Giant Ferris Wheel, one of the world's largest Ferris wheels, is located in the Tempozan Harbor Village amusement complex, a 5-minute walk from Osakako Station on the Chuo Subway Line. The view from the Ferris wheel, which is 100 meters in diameter, is nothing short of spectacular. The 15-minute ride around the wheel offers an extraordinary view of not only the city of Osaka, but also Akashi Kaikyo Bridge. The Giant Ferris Wheel is illuminated at night and has been recognized as a Night View Heritage of Japan. Osaka Museum of History Photo：Osaka Museum of History, Osaka Located adjacent to Osaka Castle Park and Naniwa no Miya Palace Ruins, the Osaka Museum of History exhibits Osaka's 1,400-year history with full-scale reconstructed buildings and miniatures. Its distinguishing feature is its hands-on experiences by actually touching and experiencing the exhibits with your own hands. The museum offers a daily changing menu of hands-on activities, such as experiences that let participants wear clothes that a Nara period (710-794 AD) official would have worn, or experiencing the work of a money changer from the Edo Period. This is a recommended tourist attraction for visitors with children and those interested in learning about Osaka's history. Tenjinbashi-suji Shopping Street Did you know that Osaka has the longest shopping street in Japan? Tenjinbashi-suji Shopping Street stretches 2.6 kilometers from north to south and is lined with some 800 stores. It has become popular as a sightseeing spot where you can discover the daily lives and warmth of the people of Osaka. Nearby are Osaka Tenmangu Shrine and the headquarters of Kansai Television, and if you're lucky, you can even meet famous entertainers filming on location in the shopping arcade! If you walk slowly, Tenjinbashi-suji Shopping Street can take 3 to 4 hours to explore, making it a good choice for those who want to experience the essence of Osaka. Osaka Museum of Housing and Living Osaka Museum of Housing and Living, which recreates the streets of Osaka in the Edo period (1603-1868), is a place where visitors can feel as if they have stepped back in time to Edo Period Japan. It's the first museum in Japan to specialize in housing, history, and culture, and is a popular spot for tourists as it offers various cultural experiences, such as a matcha (powdered green tea) and kimono. The museum is also conveniently accessible as it is connected to the exit of the subway. Come and experience Osaka in the Edo period at the Osaka Museum of Housing and Living. Kamigata Ukiyoe Museum Kamigata Ukiyo-e depicts pictures of actors in kabuki plays that were performed in Dotonbori. This is the only museum in the world that permanently exhibits Kamigata Ukiyo-e. Kamigata Ukiyo-e is characterized by its depiction of people themselves, without glorifying them as in Edo Ukiyo-e. Perhaps the best part of Kamigata Ukiyo-e is that you can feel the friendly atmosphere of Osaka. Umeda Sky Building Photo：Umeda Sky Building, Osaka The Umeda Sky Building was described as a thrilling skyscraper in the U.K. and was selected as one of the Top 20 Architectural Buildings in the World. The two connected buildings are an ingeniously beautiful sight. The Umeda Sky Building houses restaurants, a movie theater, and an art museum, while the main feature is the Kuchu Teien Observatory, which is located 173 meters above ground and can be accessed from outside. The view from the top 40th floor is nothing short of spectacular. There is free access up to the 39th floor, where there is also a restaurant and bar lounge. It's well known for its beautiful views, especially at night. Osaka Cupnoodles Museum The Cupnoodles Museum is located in Ikeda, the birthplace of instant ramen. In addition to learning about the history of instant ramen and Momofuku Ando, the founder of Nissin Foods, visitors can make their own original chicken ramen and cup noodle, making the museum popular among families and ramen fans alike. The My CUPNOODLES Factory, where you can make your very own cup noodle, is especially popular. When sightseeing in Osaka, be sure to make a trip over to Ikeda. Spa World Spa World: The World's Greatest Hot Springs, is a hot spring theme park with hot spring bathhouses from around the world with different characteristics, as well as swimming pools and ganban'yoku (hot stone spas). It's a popular tourist attraction in Osaka. There are 17 types of baths from 12 countries and 6 types of bedrock baths with different effects, so you can enjoy the feeling like you're traveling to more countries than just Japan. The amusement pool, with its exciting slides, can be enjoyed all year round and is very popular with families. Tsutenkaku & Shinsekai If you want to experience the authentic atmosphere of Osaka, Shinsekai is the place to go. With its gaudy billboards, neon signs, and stores with retro appearances, it's a hugely popular spot among both domestic and international tourists. In addition to popular Osaka restaurants such as Daruma, the birthplace of kushikatsu (deep-fried skewered pork cutlets), you can also play target practice and games in the retro shopping alley Janjan Yokocho. The symbol of Osaka, Tsutenkaku Tower, is also home to Billiken, a charm doll that is said to bring happiness, so be sure to go see him! A Video Article Related to Tsutenkaku Tower and Shinsekai Video article 4:26 Be Enchanted by the Glittering Neon Lights of Osaka and the Night View of Tsutenkaku Lighting up the City of Osaka! Introducing Recommended Spots Around Tsutenkaku Tower, the Symbol of Osaka! YouTube Abeno Harukas Abeno Harukas is the tallest building in Japan at 300 meters above ground. The highlight of the building is the Harukas 300 observation deck on the 60th floor, which offers a panoramic view of the city of Osaka from 300 meters above ground. The view of Osaka from the glass-walled indoor corridor is like looking at a diorama. The view is so spectacular that you'll feel as if you're walking in the sky. For an even more thrilling experience, we recommend EDGE THE HARUKAS, where visitors can cross a glass deck at the top of the building with a safety harness. Osaka Station City Photo：Osaka Station, Osaka Osaka Station City, a commercial complex and station building located in Osaka Station, the gateway to Osaka, is another tourist attraction we recommend checking out. The complex is home to a variety of stores, with the latest fashions to delicious foods and entertainment. The shops offer everything from high quality brands to local food and souvenirs, making it a popular destination for foreign tourists. There is a wide variety of restaurants, including Japanese, Chinese, Italian, and French. In addition, there are eight plazas whose designs were supervised by renowned Japanese industrial designer Eiji Mitooka, that offer visitors a chance to take a break and relax. The outdoor Kaze-no-hiroba Plaza (Plaza of Wind), where visitors can enjoy the tasteful greenery, is another popular spot. Namba Yasaka Shrine Namba Yasaka Shrine is famous for its stage which is a temple inside the mouth of a giant lion. The stage was built as a symbol of the shrine with the idea that it should be something that would surprise the people of Osaka. The giant lion's head, standing 12m tall, 11m wide, and 10m deep, leaves a strong impression on those who see it. People come from all over Japan and abroad to see the lion's head. The shrine is believed to bring blessings for academic achievement, and is popular among athletes as it's said to bring luck in victory. A Video Article Related to Namba Yasaka Shrine Video article 2:05 A Wedding at Namba Yasaka Shrine, the Iconic Shrine Shaped Like a Lion's Head! Experience a Traditional Japanese Wedding in the Heart of Osaka, Japan! YouTube Osaka Expo Park Osaka Expo Park, located in Suita, was created to commemorate the success of Japan World Exposition, Osaka, 1970, or simply "Expo '70." The park is rich in nature and loved by many people, and includes a Japanese garden and a nature and culture garden. The 70-meter-tall Tower of the Sun, designed by artist Taro Okamoto, is a powerful sight when seen up close! The La-La-Port Expocity commercial complex, which is very popular among children, is also located here, making it a great place for families to visit on a sightseeing trip. A Video Article Related to the Tower of the Sun Video article 2:13 The "Tower of the Sun," Created by Japanese Artist Taro Okamoto at Expo '70, Is Open to the Public for the First Time in 48 Years! Feel the Vibrancy of This Restored Masterpiece! YouTube Ohatsu Tenjin Shrine Ohatsu Tenjin Shrine is located on Ohatsu Tenjin Dori Shopping Street, a 5-minute walk from Osaka Station, where nearly 100 restaurants line the street. Its official name is Tsuyu-no-Tenjinja, and it is also known as the birthplace of Sonezaki Shinju (The Love Suicides at Sonezaki), a joruri play written by Chikamatsu Monzaemon. Ohatsu Tenjin Shrine became famous as a shrine for matchmaking because of an actual love suicide incident that served as the model for The Love Suicides at Sonezaki. Heart-shaped ema (votive plaques) and shuin (temple/shrine seals) depicting Ohatsu and Tokubei, the two main characters in the play, are very popular. Minoh Falls and Minoh Park Photo：Minoh Falls at Minoh Park, Osaka Minoh Park, a quasi-national park located around Mt. Minoh, is home to numerous attractions. In addition to the Minoh Park Insectarium, the promenade leading to Minoh Great Falls is perfect for a stroll. The most popular of all is Minoh Falls, which has been selected as one of the Top 100 Waterfalls in Japan. The name Minoh Falls (箕 Mi, meaning "winnowing basket" and 面 noh, meaning "surface") comes from the fact that the water falling from the 33-meter drop resembles the shape of a winnowing basket. During autumn, when the leaves change color, Minoh Falls can be seen through the bright red maple trees, attracting many visitors. National Bunraku Theatre The National Bunraku Theatre, where you can watch Bunraku plays—a uniquely Japanese traditional performing art—is a 1-minute walk from Nihombashi Station. Bunraku, which is both highly artistic and popular, originated in Osaka. Famous bunraku plays include The Battles of Coxinga, created by Chikamatsu Monzaemon, and many more. Designated as a UNESCO World Intangible Cultural Heritage in 2008, visitors can enjoy Bunraku with an earphone device that allows them to listen to what's being said on stage and commentary on the story. If you've never experienced Bunraku before, this is the perfect opportunity to do so! A Video Article Related to Bunraku Video article 1:47 Meet the Craftsman That Has Been Crafting Intricate Bunraku Puppet Heads for 40 Years! This Interview With an Awa Deko Ningyo Puppet Maker Will Make You Fall in Love With Ningyo Joruri! YouTube Osaka Science Museum The theme of the Osaka Science Museum is space and energy, and with exhibits that focus on hands-on learning, children and adults alike can enjoy learning about science. In February 2022, the museum's planetarium was be renovated. It's a popular tourist spot where visitors can observe a starry sky as close to the real thing as possible on one of the world's largest domed screens. Tenjin Matsuri (Tenjin Festival) Photo：Fireworks at Tenjin Matsuri, Osaka Osaka's Tenjin Festival, held over a period of about a month from late June to July 25 each year, is known as one of the three major festivals in Japan. Particularly famous is the fireworks display held on July 25. Every year, as many as 1.2 to 1.3 million people come to the festival to enjoy the approximately 5,000 fireworks that are shot into the night sky. In 2022, because of the global pandemic, only a Shinto ritual was held, but in 2023, the restrictions on activities, put in place because of the coronavirus pandemic, will be relaxed and the festival will be held as usual. Den Den Town If you're looking for anime and manga goods, video games, and just electronics in general, the look no further than Nipponbashi Den Den Town! Den Den Town has been dubbed the "Akihabara of Osaka," and for good reason. You can find everything from maid cafes to retro games and anime figures in Den Den Town, and many people say that it's actually better than Akihabara. There's even a cosplay festival called Street Festa that takes place in Den Den Town every year in March! If you can't make it to Tokyo, or just want to experience Osaka's answer to Akihabara, definitely stop by! 5 Unique Experiences to Try in Osaka Up to this point, we have introduced some of the best sightseeing spots in Osaka. From here, we would like to introduce five unique experiences that you should consider checking out when traveling in Osaka. Samurai and Ninja Experience (Japan Tatedo Association) The "Samurai/Ninja Experience" allows visitors to experience sword fighting used in historical dramas. There are two courses available, a quick course and a regular course, and the staff will instruct you how to use a sword and how to stand in a fight, based on samurai culture. During the final event there are even sound effects, making you feel as if you were the hero of a movie! You can also have your video taken, so you can leave with a unique memory of your visit to Osaka. A Video Article Related to Ninja Video article 1:06 The World of Iga and Koka Ninja! What Is It About Ninja That Fascinates People Around the World? Enjoy Realistic Ninja Experiences in Mie and Shiga Prefectures, the Homes of Ninja! YouTube Ceramic Art Experience (Maishima Pottery Museum) The Maishima Pottery Museum offers a variety of handmade craft experiences. The pottery-making experience is particularly popular. The most popular experience is the "Electric Potter's Wheel Workshop," where you can make teacups and bowls for daily use. You can make as many pieces as you like within the allotted time! The hand-molding experience, in which you can make your own original pottery using a hand-cranked potter's wheel, is great for beginners and children. Adding a pottery-making experience onto your Osaka travel itinerary is a great way to add some flavor to your trip! Street Go-Kart Experience (Akiba Kart Osaka) Wearing a costume of your favorite character, you can tour the sights of Osaka in a go-kart. Overseas travelers will need a passport and an international driver's license. The view of Osaka from the go-carts is said to be exceptional! The attraction of this experience is that since you are dressed conspicuously, you will feel a bit like a celebrity as you are called out to and waved at by people. Noh Experience (Yamamoto Noh Theater) Yamamoto Noh Theater, located in Osaka's Chuo Ward, is a place where visitors can experience the history and traditions of Noh, which was registered as a UNESCO World Intangible Cultural Heritage in 2008. The tour begins with a lecture on Noh by a Kanze-school Noh performer, followed by an opportunity to try on the costumes used in Noh plays, and ends with a chance to put on a Noh mask and learn how to chant and perform Noh songs and gestures. Wearing authentic costumes of Noh, a traditional Japanese performing art, is sure to be an unforgettable experience! A Tea Ceremony Experience at MAIKOYA Photo：Tea ceremony MAIKOYA offers an opportunity to experience the tea ceremony perfected by Sen no Rikyu, a tea master from Sakai, Osaka. MAIKOYA is popular among beginners as they can enjoy tea ceremony in a more relaxed atmosphere, as they are taught about tea ceremony and its manners. You will be served matcha green tea and Japanese sweets in a real tea room while wearing a kimono. This experience of Japanese hospitality is very popular among both Japanese and foreign tourists alike. For those who are not comfortable with a full-fledged tea ceremony, this is a great way to experience a more relaxed tea ceremony and make it a memorable part of your trip. The Minami Area of Osaka Minami is one of two major downtown areas in Osaka (the second being Kita, around Osaka and Umeda Stations) and refers to Namba, Dotonbori, where the famous Glico billboard is located, and Sennichimae home to the giant crab sign of Kani Doraku. It's known for its abundance of street food, restaurants, and places like Amerika-mura where you can go shopping. If you're looking to explore the food culture of Osaka, some foods we recommend trying are Takoyaki, okonomiyaki, kushikatsu, yakitori, and ramen. Summary of Things to Do in Osaka Osaka is one of the five largest cities in Japan, and is full of warm-hearted people. It's a city overflowing with attractions, with not only sightseeing spots and delicious food, but also a variety of facilities offering hands-on activities. Additionally, Osaka is only a short distance from popular tourist destinations like Kyoto and Kobe. You can visit places, like Nankinmachi, the famous Kobe Chinatown, or see the historic tourist attractions of Kyoto in just a 30-minute train ride. 15 minutes if you take the shinkansen! We hope this travel guide will be a useful reference for you during your travels in Osaka. The interactions you have with the wonderful people of Osaka are sure to become a memorable chapter of your trip to Japan. 【TripAdvisor】Osaka

Saikyo-ji Temple – A Heritage Site of Otsu, Shiga Founded in Japan's Asuka Period! This video, titled "[4K] Japanese Garden SAIKYO-JI / SHIGA" ([4K] 日本庭園　西教寺 / 滋賀　Japanese Garden SAIKYO-JI / SHIGA), was uploaded by "Yurara Sarara," a channel that introduces temples, Japanese gardens, and sightseeing/travel destinations in Kyoto to promote Japanese culture to people are the world. The video introduces Saikyo-ji, a temple in Otsu, Shiga. Saikyo-ji Temple, located in Otsu, Shiga, is the head temple of the Tendai Shinsei sect of Buddhism, and is one of the temples in Otsu, Shiga, founded by Prince Shotoku in the Asuka Period (around 592-710 AD). The temple has a long history and is said to have been established as a temple associated with Mt. Hiei in the Heian and Kamakura periods. The the main hall, which is made entirely of zelkova, was donated by the Kishu Tokugawa family, and has gorgeous decorations from the early Edo period (~1603 to ~1700 AD). The main hall of Saikyo-ji Temple has also been designated as an Important Cultural Property. A Closer Look at the Breathtaking Precincts of Saikyo-ji Temple! Photo：Saikyo-ji Temple, Otsu, Shiga Saikyo-ji Temple was burned down by the famous warlord Oda Nobunaga in 1571, but was rebuilt by Akechi Mitsuhide. The present precincts of Saikyo-ji Temple consist of six branch temples on either side of the approach to the temple. After passing through the gate in front of the temple, historically used by imperial envoys, you'll see the hall of the founder of the sect on the left, and the main hall at the back of the precincts. The main hall and the guest hall are located in the center of the temple. The temple can be seen in detail from 1:00in the video. Feel the Healing Power of the Japanese Gardens at Saikyo-ji Temple Photo：Saikyo-ji Temple, Otsu, Shiga The gardens at Saikyo-ji Temple were designed by Kobori Enshu. There are four gardens at Saikyo-ji Temple: one located on the south side of the kuri (the kitchen of the temple), one on the west side of the Kyakuden (reception hall), one on the south side of the Shoin (study), and one on the north side of the Shoin. The Karesansui (dry landscape garden) in "Daihonbo Garden" on the south side of the kuri retains the atmosphere of a traditional tea garden. Also, on the west side of the Kyakuden, is Kyakuden Garden. The pond and fountain in Kyakuden Garden represent Lake Biwa. Furthermore, the natural slope created by the mountain behind Saikyo-ji Temple is well utilized to create a three-dimensional view. There are also azalea and satsuki azalea trimmings there, which give an indescribable three-dimensional feeling. To the north and south of the Shoin are Shoin Garden and Ura-shoin Garden. Shoin Garden, which can be seen at 3:23, was created during the Meiji Period (1868-1912 A.D.) by a group of stonemasons called "Ano-ushu. For this reason, it is also known as the Ano-ushu Garden. In addition, the Ura-shoin Garden provides a beautiful landscape where visitors can feel the ancient history of Japan. Saikyo-ji Temple - Area Information, Events, and Seasonal Attractions Photo：Wind chimes at Saikyoj-ji Temple, Otsu, Shiga In the summer, Saikyo-ji Temple holds an event with more than 700 glass wind chimes on display, creating beautiful sounds with the summer breeze. The purpose of wind chimes is to ward off evil spirits and ward off the heat by making noise. In the Edo period (1603-1868), these wind chimes were called "Kaze-taku," but they came to be called "Fu-rin" to make them more familiar with the common people. The appearance of the temple changes with the seasons, and in autumn, visitors can enjoy the illuminated autumn leaves. Recently, many tourists come to Saikyo-ji Temple for its three types of shuin stamps. In addition, Saikyo-ji Temple has a special shuin stamp to commemorate the broadcast of NHK's historical drama "Kirin ga Kuru" in 2020. The temple also has a special shuin stamp book finished in a simple yet beautiful indigo color, for just 1,250 yen. Furthermore, there is a youth hostel attached to the precincts of Saikyo-ji Temple, where visitors can also experience the vegetarian cuisine eaten by the monks in the dining room. Saikyo-ji Temple - Access and Information for Visitors to the Temple in Otsu, Shiga Saikyo-ji Temple is a roughly 25-minute walk from Sakamoto-hieizanguchi Station. If you take the bus, it takes about 4 minutes to get there. By car, it takes about 10 minutes from the Shimosakamoto Interchange. Although it's a bit of a walk to the main hall, there's free parking available. The entrance fee is a reasonable 500 yen. Summary of Saikyo-ji Temple in Otsu, Shiga Photo：Saikyoj-ji Temple, Otsu, Shiga Being burned down by Oda Nobunaga, rebuilt by Akechi Mitsuhide, and having four beautiful gardens built on the temple grounds by Kobori Enshu, Saikyo-ji Temple has a long history. Enjoy the beauty of the divine Saikyo-ji Temple and its four sophisticated gardens in this 4.5-minute video. 【Official Website】Saikyo-ji Temple http://saikyoji.org/publics/index/19/ 【Tripadvisor】Saikyo-ji Temple https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g298202-d1424442-Reviews-Saikyoji_Temple-Otsu_Shiga_Prefecture_Kinki.html

Autumn Foliage Video Introduction of “Kinzo-ji Temple” in Kyoto City, Kyoto Prefecture This video, titled "[4K] Concept of OKU, KONZO-JI Temple of Kyoto" ([4K] Concept of OKU, KONZO-JI Temple of Kyoto　 ”奥” 金蔵寺 京都の寺), was uploaded by "Yurara Sarara," a channel that introduces Japanese culture through video. It introduces Konzoji Temple located in Oshioyama, Kyoto. Kyoto's Konzoji Temple, shown in the video, was built during Japan's Nara period (710-794 AD) as a temple of the Tendai sect of Buddhism. Later, it was destroyed by fire during the Onin War, but was rebuilt by Keishoin, the mother of the 5th Tokugawa shogun, Tokugawa Tsunayoshi, during the Edo period (1603-1868 AD). Enjoy the beautiful appearance of the temple in this short, 4K video. Konzoji – A Mountain Temple Full of Beauty Photo：Beautiful greenery at Konzoji Temple, Kyoto Konzoji Temple is located in the Rakusai area of Kyoto, on the hillside of Mt. Oshio, a mountain with an elevation of 642m. During the Heian period (794-1185 AD), it was called "Iwakura of the West" and is said to have been revered by people. One of the best places to visit in Konzoji Temple is the 12-meter-tall "San no Taki" (産の滝), a waterfall that can be seen at 1:13 in the video. The name "San no Taki" (産の滝: lit. "waterfall of birth") comes from the fact that Mukojin, the deity of Muko Shrine, was born near this waterfall. The next thing to see at Konzoji Temple is the many halls on the temple grounds. The main hall of Konzoji Temple was reconstructed during the Edo period (1603-1868) by Keishoin and houses the eleven-faced thousand-armed Kannon statue, the principal deity of the temple. The Kaizando Hall is a magnificent hall made of all-cypress and enshrines successive generations of priests including Zen Master Takatoyo, the founder of Konzoji Temple. Behind the main hall of Konzoji Temple, there's the Atago Gongen Hall, which enshrines Atago Gongen, and houses a statue of the Jogun Jizo (勝軍地蔵), a jizo said to be able to defeat an army. The statue of the Jogun Jizo is enshrined in this hall, which is open only during the Buddhist memorial service held on April 23 every year. Furthermore, Konzoji Temple has an observatory, and if you head east from Shimonogawa Benzaiten (下の川弁財天, a small shrine), you can enjoy an observatory with a panoramic view of Kyoto City. We recommend checking out the view when visiting the temple. Konzoji Temple - A Hidden Gem for Enjoying Autumn Leaves! Photo：Autumn leaves at Konzoji Temple, Kyoto Konzoji Temple is rarely visited by people, and the people you do see there are usually those who enjoy hiking. However, in early summer, there is a lot of greenery and it is a very pleasant spot to take a leisurely tour of the temple grounds. Konzoji is also known for the beauty of the green maple leaves, and it is the perfect place to experience the nature of Japan. Konzoji Temple also takes on a new appearance during the autumn months. The beautiful autumn colors that can be seen here have turned the temple into a hidden gem for viewing the breathtaking foliage of the season. Because it's located on the mountainside, the temperature varies greatly between morning and evening, and it's a great place to enjoy the spectacular autumn leaves. In particular, the path from Nio-mon Gate to the main hall is surrounded by autumn leaves creating a sort of tunnel of foliage, and is famous locally for its eye-catching beauty. Konzoji Temple is a tourist spot where you can enjoy beautiful greenery in the summer and orange and red autumn leaves in the fall. There is a parking lot you can use when accessing Konzoji Temple via car, but please note that there are some steep roads. When coming by bus, it's about an hour on foot as the nearest bus stop is quite far. That being said, if you're looking to get some hiking or exercise in, or just want to explore something new, this is definitely a place to check out. Summary of Kyoto's Beautiful Konzoji Temple As introduced in this article, Konzoji Temple is a place where you can enjoy the beautiful nature of Japan. In addition, many Shigaraki ware tanuki (raccoon dogs) figures can be found in the area, and the figure of a tanuki enjoying sake is becoming popular as an Instagram icon. The quaint appearance of the halls standing amongst the green maples expresses the beauty of Japan. In autumn, these trees turn breathtaking shades of red and orange, and visitors can enjoy the natural beauty created by the autumn leaves. Consider visiting Konzoji Temple, a place where you can enjoy the beauty of Japan in each of the four seasons! 【Tripadvisor】Konzoji Temple https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g298564-d1386185-Reviews-Konzoji_Temple-Kyoto_Kyoto_Prefecture_Kinki.html

Wakayama Castle - One of the Top 100 Japanese Castles This video, titled "[Wakayama - Japan's Top 100 Castles] Residence of the Kishu Tokugawa Family" (【和歌山／日本100名城】紀州和歌山城／紀州徳川家五十五万石の居城 - Wakayama Castle in WAKAYAMA, JAPAN -), was uploaded by "Channel WASABI," a channel that introduces beautiful scenery and famous travel destinations. The video introduces Wakayama Castle, located in Wakayama City, Wakayama Prefecture, in Japan's Kansai Region. The history of Wakayama Castle dates back to 1619 when Tokugawa Yorinobu, the tenth son of Tokugawa Ieyasu, entered Wakayama Castle and established the Kishu Tokugawa family. The castle later became the residence of the Kishu Tokugawa family of the Kishu domain (present day Wakayama and southern Mie), one of the three Tokugawa families. In this video, you can enjoy the charm of Wakayama Castle and its long history. The Charm of the Wakayama Castle's Keep Structure! Photo：Wakayama Castle, Wakayama Prefecture Wakayama Castle is one of the rare castles in Japan that has what is called a "coalition type" castle tower that features a main keep, a smaller, secondary keep, and turrets lining its walls. In addition to Wakayama Castle, Himeji Castle and Matsuyama Castle are the only other surviving castle towers built in this style. You can see the castle tower at 2:37 in the video. Wakayama Castle was used for a long time as the residence of the Kishu Tokugawa family of former Kishu domain, but the castle tower and other buildings were destroyed by fire during the Wakayama Air Raid in 1945. After the war, the castle was rebuilt with a series of towers and other structures, and is now selected as one of the Top 100 Castles in Japan. Furthermore, from the Wakayama Castle tower on top of Mt. Torafusu, you can enjoy a 360-degree view of Wakayama City. The powerful earthen mounds and stone walls, and the majestic castle tower are a must-see. Nishinomaru Garden and Okaguchi Gate - Scenic Spots and Important Cultural Properties! Photo：Nishinomaru Garden, Wakayama Castle, Wakayama Prefecture Wakayama Castle's Nishinomaru Garden was created as a place for the feudal lords to enjoy the elegance of the past. In Nishinomaru Garden, you can see the historical scenery and feel the history of Wakayama Castle. The Nishinomaru site is also a large open space where you can enjoy cherry blossom viewing in spring. There is also an Important Cultural Property called Okaguchi Gate at Wakayama Castle. Originally, the large and small keeps were designated as Important Cultural Properties, but they were destroyed by fire in the 1945 Wakayama Air Raid. Today, only Okaguchi Gate remains as an Important Cultural Property. Relaxing in Wakayama Castle's Tea Room In Wakayama, the castle keep is called "Otenshu" or "Otensu." There are Otenshu teahouses around Wakayama Castle, where staff dressed as lords and princesses or as samurai offer hospitality to visitors. Enjoy an Exciting Time at Wakayama Castle! Photo：Wakayama Castle, Wakayama Prefecture It's one thing to immerse yourself in the historical sites and enjoy the atmosphere at Wakayama Castle. However, Wakayama Castle offers a variety of entertainment for all types of people to enjoy. From around late March to early April, the castle tower is lit up and many people come to see the beautifully illuminated Wakayama Castle. Then, there's "Omotenashi Ninja," another popular event. The Omotenashi Ninja lurk inside Wakayama Castle Park and guide tourists around and even take pictures for them. Visitors can also enjoy a costume experience by dressing up in historical clothing. Wakayama Castle - Entrance Fees and Access Photo：Wakayama Castle, Wakayama Prefecture The admission fee to the Wakayama Castle tower is 410 yen for adults and 200 yen for children (elementary and junior high school students), making it a great place for families to visit. Wakayama Castle is a 10-minute walk from Nankai Wakayama Station. It also about 15 minutes from the Wakayama Interchange on the Hanwa Expressway by car. There are many parking lots in the area, so you can enjoy Wakayama Castle in a relaxed atmosphere. Furthermore, there is space around the area to enjoy lunch or have a picnic in the park, making it an all-day destination. Furthermore, there is space around the area to enjoy lunch or have a picnic in the park, making it an all-day destination. The guidebook introducing the Kii area includes a map of the area, as well as the Kii Mirokuji San Castle Ruins, Ohashi Roka, and the Wakayama History Museum. In addition, there's Wakayama Castle Park Zoo and Wakayama Castle Hall, which are designed to keep even small children entertained. Summary of Wakayama Castle, One of Japan's Top 100 Castles Wakayama Castle is the symbol of Wakayama City in Wakayama Prefecture. Wakayama Castle has grown bigger and bigger since 1619 when Tokugawa Yorinobu became the lord of the castle. It has also become one of the most famous castles in Japan due to its rare "coalition type" castle tower. Experience the history of Wakayama and the grandeur of Wakayama Castle in this 6-minute video! 【TripAdvisor】Wakayama Castle https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g298204-d1385117-Reviews-Wakayama_Castle-Wakayama_Wakayama_Prefecture_Kinki.html

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

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

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

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

Introducing Some of the Best Cherry Blossom View Locations in Kyoto! This video, titled "4K JAPAN, Cherry Blossoms in Kyoto, Kyoto, Sightseeing, Travel, Hanami, Full Bloom, Sewaritei, Kiyomizudera, Arashiyama, Gion Shirakawa, Kyoto Botanical Gardens, Heian Jingu Shrine, Okazaki Canal, Byodoin, Kamogawa, Sakura" (4K JAPAN 京都の桜 Cherry blossoms Kyoto 京都 観光 旅行花見 満開 背割堤 清水寺 嵐山 祇園白川 京都植物園 平安神宮 岡崎疏水 平等院 鴨川 sakura), was uploaded by "Discover Nippon." It condenses the beautiful scenery of Kyoto into one video. As you can see from the video, there are many cherry blossom viewing spots in Kyoto, so get out there and see them for yourself! Explore Some of Kyoto’s Most Popular Cherry Blossom Locations! One of the most popular cherry blossom viewing spots in Kyoto is Kiyomizudera, a temple and World Heritage Site known for the "Stage of Kiyomizu," its three-story pagoda, and Hojo Pond. The temple grounds can be seen from 7:33 in the video. At Kiyomizu-ji Temple, "Night Special Visits" are held three times a year.Spring, when cherry blossoms are at their best, is from March 23rd to March 31st, 2024.The opening time of the gate has been extended until 21:30, so please enjoy the collaboration between fantastic cherry blossoms and historical buildings. Photo：Cherry blossoms and Tatsumi Bridge in Gion Shirakawa, Kyoto The Gion Shirakawa Sakura Light-up is held at Gion Tatsumi Bridge in the Instagrammable Gion Shirakawa area, there are about 43 weeping cherry trees in "Gion Tsubashi.""Gion Shirakawa Sakura Light Up" will be held at the best time to see the cherry blossoms.2024 will be lit up from March 22nd to 31st from 18:00 to 22:00, so please enjoy the fantastic night cherry blossoms that emerge in Kyoto's tasteful streets. If you want to enjoy an unusual experience during the cherry blossom season, go to the gagaku performance of the Heian Jingu Shrine's Kanzakura Tea Ceremony and the Red Shidare Concert, which you can see from the video 6:15. "Heian Shrine" where you can enjoy cherry blossoms while enjoying matcha." The Kanzakura Tea Ceremony will be held from March 31st to April 11th, 2024.The Red Shidare Concert, which will be held in the illuminated cherry blossoms, will be held from April 3rd to the 7th, 2024. 4:46 is a popular cherry blossom viewing spot where you can also see Okazaki Sosu and Lake Biwa Sosu on Instagram. Photo：Cherry blossoms along the bank of the Kamo River, Kyoto Also consider checking out the "Flower Corridor" on the Kamo Riverbank between Shichijo Bridge (七条大橋) and Sanjo Bridge (三条大橋), as well as Kamo River Park in Kamogawa, and Nakaragi no Michi between Kitayama Bridge (北山大橋) and Kitaoji Bridge (北大路橋). The Kyoto Botanical Garden located near Nakaragi no Michi features beautiful red tulips and is a must-see. On the other side of the Iwashimizu Hachimangu Shrine, there is a tunnel of cherry blossom trees along the Yodogawa River Park's Sewaritei Bank. This is shown at 2:53 in the video. At the Sewaritei Cherry Blossom Festival, you can enjoy cherry blossom viewing under roughly 1,500 cherry trees of various types, including Someiyoshino and Yamazakura. Be sure not to miss the Sakura-deai Visitor Center and the observation tower that were built on the bank in 2017. Photo：Cherry blossoms at Togetsukyo Bridge, Kyoto In the cherry blossom forests of Hirano Shrine and Haradani-en Garden, you can see rare varieties of cherry blossoms, including some with yellow or green petals. You can also see the cherry blossoms at Nakanoshima Park and Togetsukyo Bridge in Arashiyama along the Oigawa River, which can be seen at 9:37 in the video. There are also many other places in Kyoto that are perfect for walking around cherry blossoms and cherry blossom viewing, including Daigoji Temple, Byodoin's Phoenix Hall, and Hieizan Enryakuji Temple. Summary of Cherry Blossoms in Kyoto There are many cherry blossom viewing spots in Kyoto, from well-known landmarks to hidden gems. Be sure to check the cherry blossom forecast before your trip to Kyoto to see the cherry blossoms when they're in full bloom.

Video introduction of sightseeing in Otsu City, Shiga Prefecture This video shows a man traveling from Otsu, Shiga to Kyoto, while touring historic temples, enjoying natural scenery, and interacting with locals on an atmospheric shopping street. Otsu is home to Lake Biwa, the largest freshwater lake in Japan, and Biwako Valley, a resort complex that offers panoramic views of Lake Biwa from 1,100-meters in the air. It's a treasure trove of tourist attractions, with everything from nature to photogenic townscapes that capture the long history of the area, and can be enjoyed by children and adults alike. Enryakuji and Other Famous Temples Around Otsu, Shiga Photo：Enryakuji Temple, Mt. Hiei, Shiga Prefecture Besides Enryakuji Temple on Mt. Hiei (Mt. Hiezan), the Lake Biwa area is dotted with many famous and historic temples. In addition to Enryakuji Temple, we recommend visiting Omi Shrine (近江神宮, Omi Jingu), Hiyoshi Taisha Shrine, and other power spots as well. [Video] 0:14 - Walking the Nyoi Kodo to Miidera Temple ●Enryakuji Temple Enryakuji Temple is the head temple of the Tendai sect of Buddhism with a history dating back more than 1,200 years. It's said that monks and warrior monks have been coming here to study since ancient times, and the temple has produced famous monks, including as Honen and Shinran. It's a recommended power spot where visitors can experience a moment of clarity and confidence. ●Miidera Temple One of the most famous of Shiga Prefecture's ancient temples. It's also known for its beautiful cherry blossoms in spring. Climbing the stone steps, there's an observatory from which you can view the majestic Lake Biwa. The spacious temple grounds are home to many national treasures and stone walls using a unique type of masonry. Many of Japan's most notable cultural assets can be found here. ●Saikyoji Temple The head temple of the Tendai Shinmori Sect of Buddhism, which has more than 450 branch temples throughout Japan. It's said to have been founded by Prince Shotoku. The main hall of the temple is sublime, and the Kyakuden (reception hall), which was built from the remains of Fushimi Castle, has many attractions, including fusuma paintings of by the Kano school, a famous school of painting prominent in 15th century Japan. Akechi Mitsuhide, who contributed to the restoration of Saikyoji Temple after it suffered damage during the Siege of Mt. Hiei in 1571, is enshrined at Saikyoji Temple, along with the tombs of his relatives. Photo：Omi Shrine, Shiga Prefecture ●Omi Shrine Omi Shrine is dedicated to Emperor Tenchi, who is said to be the founder of the Hyakunin Isshu Karuta, an ancient card game involving classical Japanese poetry, and attracts many visitors each year. The shrine is said to bring prosperity to business, ward off bad luck, ensure safe childbirth, bring academic success, protect one's family, cure illnesses, and protect against traffic accidents, among other blessings. Surrounded by greenery, the main approach to the shrine is a soothing space. ●Hiyoshi Taisha Shrine Located at the foot of Mt. Hiei, this is the head shrine of the Hiyoshi, Hie, and Sanno shrines, of which more than 3,800 exist in Japan. Since the shrine was located in an unlucky direction from the capital during the Heian period (794-1185), it's known for its blessings to ward off bad luck and evil spirits. A monkey named Masaru is said to be a messenger of the gods at the shrine, and symbolizes protection against evil, and charms and amulets with Masaru are also sold at the shrine. Immerse Yourself in the Ancient History and Culture of Otsu After touring famous ancient temples, you can experience the culture passed down to the common people of Otsu. Otsu-e, an art form popular among commoners during the Edo period (1603-1867), has a unique design that many visitors find attractive. You can also try your hand at painting clay bells resembling oni (Japanese ogre demons). Also, be sure to visit the Otsu Festival Float Exhibition Center, an exhibition hall themed on the Otsu Festival, one of the three major festivals in the area. In Otsu Hyakucho, visitors can enjoy a tour of traditional shops where they can buy a wide variety of souvenirs. Along the way, you can find the famous Miidera Chikara Mochi rice cakes. A map of Otsu Hyakucho is also available, so you can enjoy exploring the town without a guide. That being said, you can also take advantage of the guided tours of Otsu Hyakucho. It is a unique opportunity to experience the unique culture of Otsu. [Video] 0:48 - Sightseeing Around Otsu Hyakucho A Model Course for Sightseeing in Otsu Photo：Miidera Temple, Shiga Prefecture If you want to enjoy Otsu to the fullest, we recommend taking a tour of the temples and shrines to experience the history of Otsu. You can also visit Miidera Temple, which appears in the video. [Video] 0:38 - Miidera Temple There's also a course specifically for female photographers, which includes Saikyoji Temple, where participants can stroll around photogenic temples, and more. [Video] 2:04 - Saikyoji Temple If you're looking to enjoy the beautiful scenery in the area, check out Mt. Hiei and enjoy a sanctuary in the sky where the entire mountain is considered part of the temple. Shuttle buses are available to take visitors around the mountain. Travelers can also collect shuin stamps from the different temples, up to a dozen of them. There are also courses related to famous historical figures, such as Akechi Mitsuhide. Be sure to check them out! Sushi, Confectioneries, and More – Experience the Cuisine of Otsu! Photo：Funa-zushi, a specialty of Shiga Prefecture Funa-zushi is one of the most popular dishes in Otsu. Sakamoto-ya is a long-established shop that sells funa-zushi, and is designated as a Tangible Cultural Property of Japan. Sakamotoya's funa-zushi is made with a rare species of wild carp from Lake Biwa, and local Omi rice. We hope you will enjoy this traditional Japanese food made with a time-tested family recipe. [Video] 0:53 - Ganso Sakamotoya In Otsu, there's also Yaoyo, a shop that sells pickled vegetables under the Imperial Household Agency's warrant. This store was established in 1850 and has been around since the Edo period. In addition to its pickled vegetables, the shop also sells its specialty Nagarazuke, which are Omi turnips pickled in sake lees, for just a few hundred yen per bunch. You can also buy in bulk for souvenirs. [Video] 1:03 - Yaoyo If you're a fan of traditional Japanese sweets, consider dropping by Kano Shojuan Sunai no Sato (叶匠寿庵 寿長生の郷). On the expansive garden-like grounds, there is an atmospheric traditional Japanese-style teahouse, a restaurant, and a confectionery shop as well. Enjoy the delicate sweets made from carefully selected ingredients and the greenery outside the window. Experience the seasons and indulge your senses in a relaxing environment. [Video] 1:34 - Kano Shojuan Sunai no Sato Hirasansou offers Yamanobe Ryori, a type of cuisine that uses seasonal ingredients foraged from the nearby mountains of Otsu. Visitors can enjoy wild vegetables in spring, sweetfish in summer, matsutake mushrooms in autumn, and wild boar and bear in winter. The restaurant utilizes a wide variety of delicious ingredients nurtured in Japan's Shiga region. [Video] 1:46 - Hirasansou Hotel Koo Otsu Hyakucho – A Traditional Japanese Townhouse Turned Hotel While you're in Otsu, use this opportunity to stay at a hotel with a different kind of atmosphere. Hotel Koo Otsu Hyakucho is located inside of a shopping arcade. This is an accommodation facility with a new concept that opened in August 2018. Guest rooms are scattered along the shopping street and the Old Tokaido Road, with a total of 13 rooms consisting of 5 suite-type rooms and 8 hotel-type guest rooms. The townhouses, which are more than 100 years old, have been fully renovated. All rooms are equipped with bathrooms and toilets, famous designer furniture, and top-quality bedding, allowing guests to experience a luxury space that cannot be found in ordinary hotels or ryokan. [Video] 1:18 - Hotel Koo Otsu Hyakucho Summary of Sightseeing in Otsu, Shiga Photo：The view of Otsu from Miidera Temple, Shiga Prefecture In addition to Lake Biwa, Otsu, Shiga is a hidden treasure trove of wonderful sightseeing spots that have yet to be fully recognized. Otsu is a town where time seems to have stood still, as it still retains the atmosphere of a Japan from a bygone era. There are plenty of natural recreational activities for children as well as adults, as well as photogenic tours for women, and even stylish date plans. We hope you get the chance to experience Otsu, a place with unique history and traditions, unlike the neighboring city of Kyoto. 【TripAdvisor】Otsu, Shiga https://www.tripadvisor.com/Tourism-g298202-Otsu_Shiga_Prefecture_Kinki-Vacations.html

Video introduction of snowy scenery at “Ohara Sanzenin” in Kyoto City, Kyoto Prefecture, Japan This video, titled "[4K] Snowing Sanzenin Temple, Ohara, Kyoto | The Garden of Kyoto Japan" ([4K] 三千院・雪 京都大原 京都の庭園 Sanzenin Temple in Snow [4K] The Garden of Kyoto Japan), was uploaded by "Yurara Sarara." Ohara, hidden in the mountains of Kyoto, is the birthplace of Oharame (大原女, lit. "Woman of Ohara"), women from the town of Ohara who peddled firewood hundreds of years ago in Japan. Once known as a place to spend a secluded life, it's home to many ancient temples. This is where Ohara Sanzenin Temple resides. In the summer, people can enjoy the fresh greenery of the moss and Japanese maple leaves. But in winter, it changes completely. Everything is covered with snow, and it becomes incredibly quiet and peaceful. Historical buildings like the Kyakuden (客殿, reception hall), Shinden, and Ojo Gokurakuin (Amida Hall) give visitors a glimpse into Japan's wabi-sabi culture. Be sure to check out Ohara Sanzenin Temple during winter in the video! Senzenin Temple – Religion, Characteristics, and More Photo：Sanzenin Temple, Sakyo, Kyoto Sanzenin Temple is located in Ohara, Kyoto, in Japan's Kansai region. It is a Tendai sect temple started by the Japanese Buddhist monk Dengyo Daishi Saicho. The principal image of the temple is Yakushi Nyorai (Bhaisajyaguru, the Healing Buddha). It's said that the origin of Sanzenin Temple is Enyu-bo Temple, built on Mt. Hiei around the 8th century. After many transfers, it finally moved to Ohara in 1871. People began calling it "Sanzenin" after it came to Ohara, but originally it was called "Enyu-in" (Enyu-bo) or "Entoku-in." In the late Heian period (794 - 1185 AD), the imperial family began to live in the temple. Because of this, a member of Japan's imperial family has even been a chief priest of the temple. There are three temples of the Tendai sect (Sanmon school) whose chief priest belonged to Japan's imperial family: Shorenin, Myohoin, and Sanzenin. Sanzenin is the oldest of the three. As an ancient temple which has more than 1,200 years of history, it's a famous spot for travelers. Must-See Attractions at Sanzenin Temple on the Outskirts of Kyoto Photo：Jizo statues at Sanzenin Temple, Kyoto Highlights of Ohara Sanzenin Temple include the beautiful gardens, Shuheki-en and Yusei-en. Visitors can enjoy the relaxing views while drinking matcha in the Shoin (study). Through the trees, visitors can spot Ojo Gokurakuin Temple, an Important Cultural Property of Japan. The statue enshrined at Oujo Gokurakuin Temple is the National Treasure, Amida Sanzon. The image depicts the Amitabha Buddha and others coming to welcome believers from the Pure Land of Ultimate Bliss at their time of death. In addition, the ceiling is decorated with extremely vivid paintings to represent Sukhavati, the Pure Land of Ultimate Bliss in Buddhism. Warabe Jizo statues, which can be encountered around the temple grounds, is also popular among visitors. In the video you can see a Warabe Jizo standing in the snow at Ohara Sanzenin Temple. [Video] 1:34 - "Warabe Jizo" Covered with Snow At Konjiki Fudo-do, you can receive a shuin stamp of Konjiki Fudo-do (the Hall of the Golden Acala), written with gold paint (limited to every 28th of the month or when the door of Konjiki Fudo-son is opened). The principal image of Ohara Sanzenin Temple is Yakushi Nyorai (Bhaisajyaguru, the Healing Buddha), and so the temple is said to protect against diseases. You can go there to pray for someone you care about. Autumn Leaves and Hydrangeas… The Seasonal Charms of Sanzenin Temple Photo：Autumn leaves at Sanzenin Temple, Kyoto At Ohara Sanzenin Temple, visitors can enjoy both snowy landscapes and beautiful scenery in each of Japan's four seasons. Starting in the middle of June, Ajisai-en, the hydrangea garden, is very popular due to the approximately 1,000 beautifully blooming hydrangeas. Especially popular are the star-shaped "shichidanka" hydrangeas, which are also referred to as "phantom hydrangeas" and are well worth seeing. In the summer, carpets of green moss and blue maple trees adds color to the surrounding area. In autumn, Ohara Sanzenin Temple is enveloped in beautiful autumn colors, creating a truly photogenic space. The colorful autumn foliage of Ohara Sanzenin Temple has even become famous in Japan. Even now, the temple is crowded with many tourists in autumn. Admission for all seasons is 700 yen for adults, and an additional 500 yen for those looking to participate in the tea ceremony. It takes about one hour to see everything that Ohara Sanzenin Temple has to offer. Take a leisurely stroll through the temple grounds and enjoy the seasons, and relax with a cup of green tea and traditional Japanese sweets while admiring the beautiful garden. Summary of Sanzenin Temple, Ohara, Kyoto Ohara Sanzenin Temple offers both scenic views and a pleasant silence as the snow falls steadily in the crisp winter air. Ohara Sanzenin Temple was also featured in a song by Duke Aces, a Japanese vocal quartet from 50s Japan, which led to the temple gaining in popularity. The nearby area is also full of historical sites for visitors to explore. Having 1200 years of history, Ohara Sanzenin Temple has seen many events throughout the years. Winter is a mysterious time of year that brings both beauty and a sense of loneliness to people's hearts. Traveling through the bitter cold of winter while reminiscing can lead to wonderful experiences. After a leisurely walk through Sanzenin Temple, consider having lunch outside the temple at one of the restaurants offering seasonal foods such as yuba and yudofu (Japanese tofu dishes). Just don't forget to pick up some souvenirs as well! ◆Tendai Sect Sanzenin Temple, Ohara, Kyoto◆ 【Address】540 Ohara-raikoincho, Kyoto Sakyo-ku, Kyoto, Japan 601-1242 【Telephone】075-744-2531 【Hours】9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. (8:30 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. in November, 9:00 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. from December to February） 【Admission Fee】Adults: ¥700, junior high and high school students: ¥400, elementary school students: ¥150 【Closures】None 【Access】 By car: At Mano interchange, head towards Tochu. From Tochu, head to Ohara. By bus: Kyoto Bus Route 17, 19 Get off at Ohara, and walk 10 minutes 【Parking】None ※Please use nearby parking 【Official Website】Tendai Sect Kyoto Ohara Sanzenin Temple 【TripAdvisor】Sanzenin Temple

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

Kinosaki Onsen Soto-yu Tour: Video Introduction This video, titled "Kinosaki Onsen Soto-yu Tour - Experience the Bathhouses With a Stroll" (城崎温泉外湯巡り~散策しながら外湯を堪能しました～), was created by "fukuchiyama." The video introduces seven soto-yu (a type of public bathhouse which is not part of the facilities of a hotel or inn), while going into detail on the origins of each, as well as introducing the ryokan (a Japanese style hotel) the video creator stayed in. We especially recommend this video if you happen to be planning a trip to Kinosaki Onsen. Check it out above! Kinosaki Onsen – A Tourist Destination and Hot Spring Town With 1300 Years of History! Origins, Characteristics and Recommended Cuisine Photo：Kinosaki Onsen Located in the northern part of Hyogo on the coast of the Sea of Japan, Kinosaki Onsen, located in the city of Toyooka, is one of the many hot spring towns dotting Japan's Kansai region. This hot spring resort has a long history too, dating back to the Nara period (710–794 AD). Used as a healing hot spring in the past, the resort is also known for the list of famous authors and poets known to have visited it. In 2020 a host of special events were held to commemorate the 1300th anniversary of Kinosaki Onsen's opening. Kinosaki Onsen's popularity isn't limited to domestic tourists either; the Michelin Green Guide gives it two stars, stating "If you're in the area, you should make a detour to visit." This hugely popular tourist spot goes by the slogan "The whole town is an onsen ryokan." Kinosaki Onsen Station (城崎温泉駅, kinosakionsen-eki) is the front door; the streets its corridors. Imagining each individual inn to be a guest room and the soto-yu as the "daiyokujo" (the large communal bathing area found in most onsen ryokan), the residents of the area band together to entertain visitors whilst protecting the traditions of old, giving the resort a lively feel. And then there's the cuisine. Kinosaki Onsen's famed "kani" (crab) is a winter delight. Snow crabs caught at the nearby Tsuiyama Fishing Harbor (津居山漁港, Tsuiyama gyoko) are known as Tsuiyama-gani (津居山ガニ, lit. "Tsuiyama crab"), and are said to be amongst the best quality snow crabs you can eat. Crab season comes in the colder months, and tourists descend upon the town to get a taste of fresh crab, as well as enjoy the hot springs. We're sure plenty of you will be checking lists of crab restaurants in search of the best crab dishes out there. Kinosaki Onsen Soto-yu Tour – Opening Hours, Origins, and Characteristics of the Seven Bathhouses + Recommendations Photo：Kinosaki Onsen's Yanagi yu Kinosaki Onsen is famous for its "soto-yu" bathhouses. "Soto-yu" (外湯, lit. "outside bath") refers to a communal bathing space that is "outside" the facilities of an inn or hotel. In Kinosaki, there are seven soto-yu within walking distance, each with its own unique charm. The waters contain sodium and calcium, and are supposedly effective against nerve pain, muscular pain, bruising and digestive problems. If you're planning to spend the day at the hot springs, you can save money with the soto-yu tour pass, "Yumepa"! For 1,300 yen (650 yen for minors), you can use the soto-yu as many times as you like for as long as you want for one day. In Kinosaki Onsen, where yukata (a casual summer kimono) and geta (traditional Japanese wooden sandals) blend seamlessly into the scenery, why not don a kimono yourself, grab a map, and take a stroll through the ancient townscape whilst immersing yourself in the onsen mood? Next, we'll walk you through the characteristics and origins of each of the seven soto-yu, following the order in which they appear in the video. ● Jizo yu (地蔵湯) Upon leaving Kinosaki Onsen station, head straight down the main road in front of the station to find "Jizo yu." This soto-yu has been a popular spot of the locals since the Edo period (CE 1603-1868). It gets its name from tales that Jizo (the Buddhist guardian deity of children) once appeared from its waters. The building has the most modern Japanese appearance of all the soto-yu, with hexagonal windows that echo the shape of Japanese lanterns and the nearby Genbu Cave (玄武洞, genbu-do). 【Hours】7:00 a.m. - 11:00 p.m. 【Closures】Fridays [Video] 1:35 - A large stone lantern marks "Jizo yu" public bathhouse ● Sato no yu (さとの湯), a Hot Spring Inside a Station Located right next to Kinosaki Onsen station, Sato no yu is also known affectionately as "Station Onsen" (駅舎温泉, ekisha onsen). Of the seven soto-yu, Sato no yu's facilities were built the most recently, and the hot spring offers the latest equipment, giving the onsen a spa-like vibe. As well as the open air bath from which you can gaze upon the Maruyama River (円山川, maruyama-gawa), there is a full complement of saunas of various types. There's even a footbath at the entrance that's free to use. Best of all, its proximity to the station makes it ideal for a quick dip while you're waiting for your train. 【Hours】1:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m. 【Closures】Mondays [Video] 2:12 - Sato no yu, Right by Kinosaki Onsen Station ● Yanagi yu (柳湯) Running through the heart of Kinosaki Onsen is the Otani River (大溪川, otani-gawa). The sight of the willow trees ("yanagi" in Japanese) that line the river are a defining image of Kinosaki Onsen, and holds a beauty that the famous Japanese writer Naoya Shiga is said to have held close to his heart. The name "Yanagi yu" comes from the onsen's source, bubbling up from beneath the roots of a willow tree transplanted from China's renowned Xi Lake. Although this is the smallest of the soto-yu, the minimalistic wood-construction bath has an atmosphere all its own. Here, too, there are free footbaths - both out front and in the back - which can be enjoyed as part of a leisurely stroll. 【Hours】3:00 p.m. - 11:00 p.m. 【Closures】Thursdays [Video] 3:20 - Yanagi yu as Seen From the Bank of the Otani River Photo：Kinosaki Onsen's Soto-yu tour, Ichi no Yu ● Ichi no yu (一の湯) Ichi no yu stands close to the center of Kinosaki, in front of Obashi Bridge (王橋, lit. "King's Bridge"), as it crosses the Otani River. In the mid-Edo Period, Ichi no yu was known as "Ara yu" (新湯). However, in renowned doctor Shutoku Kagawa's book, "Ippondo Yakusen," the onsen is described as "tenka ichi," meaning "the best under the heavens." Thanks to this, Ara yu's name was changed to "Ichi no yu" (一の湯, lit. "best hot spring") taking the "ichi" from "tenka ichi." With its striking facade resembling a Kabuki Theatre, its stand-out feature is the cave-like bath, hewn from natural bedrock. 【Hours】7:00 a.m. - 11:00 p.m. 【Closures】Wednesdays [Video] 4:24 - Ichi no yu With its Kabuki Theatre-esque Building ● Mandara yu (まんだら湯) Mandara yu is where Kinosaki Onsen began. Just off the main road, it is situated at one end of the peaceful Kiyamachi Street. The story goes that when, in the year 717, Dochi Shonin, the founder of Kinosaki's Onsenji Temple (温泉寺) chanted the Hachimandara sutra (八曼荼羅経, hachimandarakyo) for one-thousand days, his prayer was answered and an onsen burst forth from the ground, marking the beginning of Kinosaki Onsen. This is a relatively compact soto-yu, but with its location in the foothills of a mountain it's definitely an atmospheric place, and you can enjoy the view of the mountain whilst taking a dip in the open-air bath. 【Hours】3:00 p.m. - 11:00 p.m. 【Closures】Wednesdays [Video] 5:43 - Mandara yu, With Its Impressive Vivid Emerald Green Roof and Karahafu (Curved Gable) Entrance ● Gosho no yu (御所の湯) This soto-yu takes its name, Gosho no yu, from a text in the Nanbokucho period (CE 1337–1392) historical tale "Masukagami," stating that Emperor Go-Horikawa's elder sister, "Anka Monin" bathed there in 1267. Its imposing style - which imitates that of the Imperial Palace in Kyoto - makes it stand out, even when compared to the other soto-yu. Reopening in 2020 following renovation work, it has been reinvented as a spacious, fully open-air bath. Also known as "Bijin no Yu" (美人の湯, lit. Beauty Spring), the facility is fully equipped with an onsen mist sauna with skin beautifying properties. This soto-yu has found favor particularly amongst female visitors. 【Hours】7:00 a.m. - 11:00 p.m. 【Closures】Thursdays [Video] 6:48 - Goshono yu, With Its Architecture Reminiscent of Kyoto's Imperial Palace」 ● Ko no yu (鴻の湯) Although not featured in the video, Ko no yu is also one of the seven soto-yu. Its open-air bath surrounded by nature is its stand-out feature. a href="https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g1022822-d2364311-Reviews-Ko_no_Yu-Toyooka_Hyogo_Prefecture_Kinki.html" target="_blank" class="textlink">Ko no yu gets its name from a story that long ago, a wounded stork (コウノトリ, "konotori" in Japanese) went there to soothe its wounds. Upon inspection, an onsen was found to be welling up from the place it had been standing. 【Hours】7:00 a.m. - 11:00 p.m. 【Closures】Tuesdays Must Bring Items and Need to Know Manners for Visiting the Soto-yu Photo：A woman touring the hot springs at Kinosaki Onsen If you're planning to spend the day touring the soto-yu at Kinosaki Onsen, you're probably wondering what you'll need to take with you. And it goes without saying that proper use of manners from each visitor is an important aspect of enjoying the soto-yu. Allow us to guide you through the most important items to bring and necessary manners for your soto-yu tour. ・Towels The soto-yu do not have free bath towels or face towels available to use, so it's a good idea to bring your own with you. You can also pay to rent bath towels and purchase face towels at the reception at any of the soto-yu. ・Valuables When staying over, you can leave your valuables at your hotel or inn, but this solution isn't useful if you're only visiting for the day. Fortunately, Kinosaki Onsen Station has coin-operated lockers which can be used even for larger luggage, so we recommend depositing your valuables in one of them. ・Yukata If you want to tour the soto-yu in a yukata, we'd recommend visiting a yukata rental store where you can borrow geta and other accessories together as a package. ・Amenities Each soto-yu provides shampoo, conditioner and body soap. Like any regular public bathhouse hairdryers are also available, but don't forget to bring your own skincare products. ・Bathing Etiquette Onsen are public places. In addition to using the shower area and baths in a hygienic manner, behavior such as soaking towels in the bath and placing personal objects somewhere in an attempt to reserve a shower space should be avoided. The opening times and days vary between the soto-yu. To avoid wasting your time and turning up at a soto-yu only to find it closed, be sure to check the opening times and plan out your route in advance. Recommended Cuisine and Accommodation in Kinosaki Onsen Photo：Tajima Beef Whilst crab is the first thing to come to mind when talking about Kinosaki, Tajima beef is also popular. Brand name "wagyu" (high quality Japanese beef) such as Matsuzaka beef, Kobe beef, Omi beef and others trace their roots back to Tajimi beef. Sampling such quality ingredients as crab and Tajima beef in one place is something you can only do in Kinosaki. Make sure you get a bite to eat as you explore the onsen district from one of the shops in the area. Crab sticks from the tempura specialist "Hokyuan" (汸臼庵) or Tajima beef "menchikatsu" (a fried cake of minced meat) from "Gyusho Ueda" (牛匠 上田) are also good choices. If you want to enjoy Kinosaki Onsen at your own pace, why not stay at one of the historical ryokan in the town? ● Yutoya (ゆとうや) Founded in 1688, and situated in the center of Kinosaki's hot spring district, Yutoya's premises include a gorgeous Japanese garden spanning more than 1.5 acres, which is visible from all of the guest rooms. The Japanese style architecture has been designated as a Tangible Cultural Heritage by the government of Japan. Eikitei (one of Yutoya's guest rooms), with its curved gabled roof similar to those used on shrines, once played host to Emperor Showa and (his wife) Empress Kojun. [Video] 4:58 - Historical ryokan "Yutoya," with its imposing facade ● Tsukimotoya Ryokan (月本屋旅館) Founded in 1869, Tsukimotoya Ryokan sits in the heart of Kinosaki Onsen, a convenient location for those planning to tour the soto-yu. It underwent a renovation in October 2021, and the interior has been re-imagined in modern Japanese style. Heading into the coming season, you can get a full course crab dinner included in certain price plans at this extremely popular inn. Kinosaki Onsen Soto-yu Tour: Roundup Loved by some of Japan's literary greats, Kinosaki is not only a hot spring resort, but also a place with a deep connection to the literary arts, dotted with monuments related to literature. Take a trip to see the monuments and lose yourself in the world of classic Japanese literature. A healing atmosphere, delicious cuisine, unique literature; Kinosaki Onsen has them all amongst its history-steeped streets. Whether it be a girls' trip to the top Instagrammable spots, a relaxing ryokan stay with family or close friends, or a crab tasting tour, why not plan a trip to this atmospheric and enchanting hot spring resort for your winter vacation? [TripAdvisor] Kinosaki Onsen

Isonokami Shrine – The Oldest Shrine in Japan: Video Introduction This video, titled "[Nara / National Treasure] Rainy Scenery at Isonokami Shrine in NARA, JAPAN -" (【奈良／国宝】石上神宮 - Rainy scenery of the Isonokami Jingu Shrine in NARA, JAPAN -), was uploaded by "channel WASABI." This video, shot during autumn, shows both the beauty of nature and the divinity of the area. Be sure to check out the video before reading along. Isonokami Shrine – A Brief History of the Shrine Photo：Isonokami Shrine, Tenri, Nara Isonokami Shrine is located in Tenri, Nara, in Japan's Kansai Region, at the western foot of Mt. Ryuo. The haiden (拝殿, hall of worship) is the oldest existing hall of worship in Japan and is designated as a National Treasure. Isonokami Shrine has been worshipped as the ancestral deity of the Mononobe Clan, a powerful clan in the Asuka Period (circa 592-710 A.D.). The shrine is also known for its blessings of health and longevity, its power to heal illnesses, protect from disaster, and fulfill wishes, and is designated as the 19th site on the Shinbutsu Reijo Junpai no Michi, a pilgrimage route to sacred Shinto shrines and Buddhist temples. The pilgrimage route is made up of 152 sacred sites in Japan's Kinki region, including Ise Jingu Shrine. The Gods Worshipped at Isonokami Shrine Isonokami Shrine worships three main deities. Here we'll introduce them briefly. Futsunomitama no Okami – A sword that appears in Japanese mythology. The deity is said to have been inspired by the sword held by Takemikazuchi no Kami, a god of thunder. Furunomitama no Okami – Said to refer to one of the sacred treasures given to Nigihayahi no Mikoto (a god and ancestor of the Mononobe Clan) by Amatsukami Mioya, as well as its mysterious powers. Futsushimitama no Okami – A divine sword used by Susanoo no Mikoto when he defeated Yamata no Orochi, a legendary 8-headed dragon serpent, and the spiritual power of the sword itself. Chickens: Messengers of the Gods at Isonokami Shrine Photo：The sacred chickens of Isonokami Shrine, Tenri, Nara The 30 to 40 chickens at Isonokami Shrine are called goshinkei (御神鶏, lit "sacred chickens") and are designated as a protected species by the Japanese government. They are free-range chickens at Isonokami Shrine and welcome visitors to the shrine. Chickens, which appear in the Kojiki (Records of Ancient Matters) and the Nihon Shoki (Chronicles of Japan), are believed to be messengers of the gods, and their crowing is thought to ward off evil. On the temple grounds, Goshinkei Mikuji (御神鶏みくじ, sacred chicken mikuji), which come in containers shaped like chickens, and ema (wooden prayer plaques) depicting a chicken crowing at dawn, are also popular. [Video] 2:05 - Chickens at Isonokami Shrine Highlights of Isonokami Shrine Photo：Izumo Takeo Shrine at Isonokami Shrine, Tenri, Nara The tower gate, designated as an Important Cultural Property, was built in 1318 in the late Kamakura Period (1185-1333), and in the past, a bell was hung on the upper level of the gate. The space behind the hall of worship, which is the oldest in Japan and is designated as a National Treasure, is a consecrated ground, and serves as a sacred space where the shrine's deities reside. The worship hall of Izumo Takeo Shrine, an auxiliary shrine to Isonokami Shrine, has also been designated as a National Treasure. The historic and solemn atmosphere of the shrine as well as its divine appearance can be seen in the video. [Video] 3:25 - Izumo Takeo Shrine's Worship Hall Seven-Branched Swords, Divine Amulets & More Photo：Isonokami Shrine, Tenri, Nara The seven-branched sword of Isonokami Shrine is an ancient relic that has been handed down within the treasury of Isonokami Shrine. It's assumed to be the same as a sword which was presented by the Baekje people (an ancient Korean kingdom) many years ago. The uniquely shaped sword, measuring 74.8 cm in length, is made of iron and has three "branch" swords on each side. The amulet called Go-shinken Mamori, which represents this seven-branched sword, is said to be a lucky charm with the power to rescue someone on the brink of death. The shrine's shuin stamp also depicts a seven-branched sword. Summary of Isonokami Shrine Isonokami Shrine is known as a power spot and is visited by many people seeking blessings. In addition to Isonokami Shrine, there are many other interesting historical sightseeing spots in Nara Prefecture. If you're planning a visit to Nara, consider visiting Isonokami Shrine as well! 【Official Website】Isonokami Shrine Official Website｜Tenri, Nara 【TripAdvisor】Isonokami Shrine

Video introduction of “Mikane Shrine” in Kyoto, Kyoto, Japan This video, titled "Mikane Shrine, Kyoto｜Kyoto Japan 4K Video FDR-AX100" (京都・御金神社 Kyoto Japan 4K 動画 FDR-AX100), was uploaded by "Kyoto 4K Videos｜KYOTO VIDEOS" (京都4K動画KYOTO VIDEOS). If you venture away from the office district of Karasuma-Oike Street (烏丸御池通り, Karasuma-Oike-dori) in Nakagyo, Kyoto, you'll come across a golden torii gate. This is Mikane Shrine, a hidden gem and famous power spot for receiving blessings of wealth in Kyoto. The shrine is illuminated at night, creating a fantastic atmosphere that stands out from the rest of the city. The ginko-shaped ema plaques on the shrine grounds are filled with prayers asking for a winning lottery ticket. Check out the fantastic atmosphere of Mikane Shrine illuminated in the darkness in the video below. More About Mikane Shrine Photo：Mikane Shrine, Kyoto Mikane Shrine is written "御金神社" in Japanese. Mikane Shrine worships three deities: Kanayamahiko no Mikoto (a god of gold mines), Amaterasu, and Tsukiyomi no Mikoto. Originally a private shrine belonging to a residence, Mikane Shrine attracted many worshippers, and with the support of the neighborhood, the present shrine building was erected. The shrine was located near a street with many metal working craftsmen, and just like in Tokyo, ginza and kinza (gold and silver mint) were established by Tokugawa Ieyasu. Because of this, the shrine is believed to protect currency, such as gold, silver, and copper, as well as metals, jewelry, and minerals, and is said to bring various benefits related to money, such as economic fortune and success in business. The sacred ginkgo tree represents "prosperity and development" because it does not wither in any environment, and the leaves of the ginkgo tree represent "endless growth" because of their shape that spreads out in all directions. Furthermore, although it takes time for one gingko to bear fruit, once it does, it bears many fruits, so it is believed that this is true for the wishes the shrine grants as well. In addition, the leaves of the sacred gingko tree are distributed by the shrine to worshipers because of their golden color. Since the sacred tree is loved by many worshippers and is thought to bring them good luck, the shrine's ema plaques and amulets are also shaped like ginkgo leaves. Many visitors wash their money in the hand-washing basins at Mikane Shrine, but this is not a formal way of worship, rather a unique practice by visitors to the shrine. Therefore, it's important to keep in mind that the temizuya (chozuya) are originally for washing hands and mouths when visiting a shrine. Lucky Wallets and Golden-Leafed Seals at Mikane Shrine Photo：Mikane Shrine's ema plaques At Mikane Shrine, many people come to pray for economic prosperity, and there are a large number of money-related items available as souvenirs. Among them, the fuku-tsutsumi mamori (福包み守り, lit. "Lucky wrap charm"), commonly known as a "lucky wallet" is one of the most popular. It's made of yellow cloth, a good color for economic fortune, and each one is hand-stamped with gold leaf. Because they're made of cloth, they're less suited for everyday use, and better for storing important items such as bankbooks and lottery tickets. Since they are handmade in limited numbers, it's said to be good luck if you manage to get your hands on one. In addition to lucky wallets, shuin stamps are also popular at Mikane Shrine. The standard shuin stamps are also unique, featuring the kanji 金 (kin, "gold") in gold. However, the limited-quantity gold leaf shuin stamp features a ginkgo tree stamped in gold leaf, and those who are lucky enough to receive are said to be exceptionally lucky. The shuin stamps come as they are, and cannot be written in a special collection book. Praying for That New Year's Lottery Win? Check Out Mikane Shrine Photo：Japan's Jumbo Lottery Because Mikane Shrine is popular among locals as well as tourists, long lines form during the year-end and New Year's holidays. Especially during the New Year's holiday, it's likely to be at least an hour-long wait. We recommend visiting the shrine early in the morning or at night when there are fewer people. Mikane Shrine is illuminated and open all day long, but there are many private homes in the vicinity of the shrine. Please be sure to visit the shrine in a way that does not disturb the residents of the neighborhood. To get to Mikane Shrine, it's an approximately 5-minute walk from Karasuma-Oike Station on the Kyoto Municipal Subway Line. As with other shrines, it's common practice to bow before the torii gate, wash your hands, and rinse out your mouth at the chozuya. The bell at Mikane Shrine is set up in such a way that it does not disturb the nearby residents. Even if the bell doesn't ring, do not forcefully try to make it do so. After the standard two bows and two claps to greet the deities of the shrine, make your wish and give a final bow. This way you can respect both the gods of the shrine and the nearby residents. Summary of Mikane Shrine, Kyoto Mikane Shrine has become famous as a spiritual power spot as well as a place to pray for wealth and fortune. The shrine, which has long been loved by locals and was built with their help, has now become a tourist attraction loved by both tourists and people from all over Japan. It's said that just by using the golden torii gate of Mikane Shrine as your lock screen image, it can bring economic fortune, and many people can be seen taking pictures in front of the golden torii gate. The golden torii gate is also popular on Instagram due to its flashy, photogenic appearance. If you visit Kyoto as a tourist, consider stopping by Mikane Shrine to pray for wealth! A quiet visit to the shrine may bring you good luck. Just remember to be considerate of the local residents. The gods may be moved by your prayers and make your wishes come true... ◆Mikane Shrine◆ 【Address】614 Oshinishitoincho, Nakagyo Ward, Kyoto, 604-0042 【Shrine Office Hours】10:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. 【Parking】None 【Access】 Subway: A 5-minute walk from Exit 2 of Karasuma-Oike Station on the Karasuma Subway Line, or Exit 2 of Nijojo-mae Station on the Tozai Subway Line City Bus: A 5-minute walk from the Nijojo-mae (二条城前), Horikawa-Oike (堀川御池), and Shinmachi Oike (新町御池) bus stops 【TripAdvisor】Mikane Shrine

A Look at Kyoto and Its History This video, titled “The Night Scene of Kyoto (SONY a7S2 4K Pilotfly H2 Gimbal)” (京都の夜動画 - The Night Scene of Kyoto (SONY a7S2 4K Pilotfly H2 ジンバル)), was released by “video channel.” It showcases the scenery of Kyoto at night in 4K ultra-HD resolution. What does Kyoto, one of Japan's most popular tourist destinations, look like at night? Kyoto originally prospered as the capital of Japan from the Heian Period (794-1185 A.D.), with many shrines and temples, such as Fushimi Inari Shrine, Kiyomizudera Temple, and Kodaiji Temple, and Mt. Inari was a symbol of mountain worship. Kyoto is a city for adults where you can experience the flow of time differently from other big cities. Gion – A Beautiful Nightscape in Kyoto Photo：Gion, Kyoto There are many tourist attractions in Kyoto, but Gion is the place to be to see Kyoto at night. Gion is the name of the area in front of Yasaka Shrine, and it has developed into a historic red-light district. It is also famous as a nightlife district for adults, where tourists and business tycoons from Kyoto and abroad come to have fun at night. You can see geiko walking around the area at 1:14 in the video. Kyoto's Gion area alone is full of popular tourist attractions, but the slope that appears throughout the video is Nineizaka, the approach to Kiyomizudera Temple. There is a dangerous legend that if you fall on Nineizaka, you'll die within two years, so please be very careful when sightseeing! Another famous approach to Kiyomizudera Temple is Sanneizaka. The slope is lined with many stores, cafes, and restaurants, making it a great spot for eating, dates, and even going for a drive. Hanamikoji Street in Southern Gion, Kyoto Photo：Gion's Hanamikoji Street, Kyoto The main nighttime sightseeing spot in the Gion area where you're most likely to see geiko and maiko is the 1km-long Hanamikoji Street, located on the south side of Gion. Hanamikoji Street stretches from Sanjo Street to Kenninji Temple, centering on Shijo Street, which is bordered by Yasaka Shrine's Nishiromon Gate. Also along this street is the site of the annual "Miyako Odori," a dance festival where maiko and geiko compete in artistic competitions, and Tsudaro, a long-established restaurant with a reputation for its Kyoto-style cuisine. Fushimi Inari Shrine's Omokaruishi (Heavy or light stone): Will Your Wish Come True? Photo：The thousand torii gates of Fushimi Inari Shrine, Kyoto A tourist spot in Kyoto that is rapidly gaining popularity among foreigners is Fushimi Inari Shrine, famous for its shrine approach lined with vermilion torii gates. At the inner shrine, there is a stone called "Omokaruishi," and legend has it that if you lift it and it feels lighter than you expected, your wish will come true, but if it feels heavier than you expected, your wish is not yet ready to be fulfilled. Fushimi Inari is the head shrine of all the Inari shrines in Japan, and the shrine is dedicated to foxes as opposed to the usual komainu (guardian dogs). Shinbashi Street - The Best Place To Enjoy the Old-Fashioned District of Gion Photo：Gion's Shinbashi Street, Kyoto Shinbashi Street (Shinbashi-dori) is an area where old fashioned streets and lanterns still remain. This is the area that retains the strongest traces of Gion, which flourished as a red-light district during the Edo Period (1603-1868 A.D.), and is known as a good place for night sightseeing in Kyoto. This street is also known as a famous location for viewing cherry blossoms and attracts many tourists in the spring. Nothing can beat taking a midnight stroll through Kyoto under the illuminated cherry blossoms during the cherry blossom season. Summary of Kyoto’s Popular Sightseeing Locations Photo：Yasaka-no-To and Kyoto Tower, Kyoto In addition to the Gion area, there are many other tourist attractions in Kyoto. There's the famous Yasaka-no-To, a three-storied pagoda which is the symbol of Kyoto, Kyoto Tower, which offers a panoramic view of Kyoto from its observation deck, and Shogunzuka's Seiryuden Hall, a new landmark built in 2014 at the top of Higashiyama. One of the most popular power spots for finding love, especially among women, is "Ryu no Atago" (龍の愛宕池, Dragon Pond) located at Arashiyama Station off the Keifuku Dentetsu Arashiyama Line. To get here, you must pass through Kimono Forest, where 600 Kyo Yuzen pillars line the street. Kyoto is a beautiful tourist destination, and in order to protect the scenery of the city, there are rules and regulations that prohibit littering, eating, drinking, and smoking outside of designated areas, so please be sure to follow these rules and enjoy your time sightseeing in Kyoto at night! 【Tripadvisor】Kyoto’s Gion District https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g298564-d321451-Reviews-Gion-Kyoto_Kyoto_Prefecture_Kinki.html

Video introduction of Hatsumode at “Kitano Tenmangu Shrine” in Kyoto City, Kyoto Prefecture, Japan This video, titled "Kitano Tenmangu Shrine, Kyoto - The Head Shrine of the 12,000 Tenmangu Shrines in Japan, Dedicated to Sugawara No Michizane, the God of Learning [No. 055]' (京都 初詣 北野天満宮 〜 学問の神様菅原道真公をお祀りする全国12000ある天満宮の総本社、楼門に掲げられた巨大絵馬でご開運を！[No.055]), was uploaded by "QUICK GLANCE KYOTO." Kitano Tenmangu Shrine is located in Kamigyo, Kyoto, in Japan's Kansai Region, and is known as the god of learning. Several statues of oxen, which are known to serve as messengers of the god, are located within the shrine precincts. The shrine is also known as one of the most crowded shrines in Kyoto for Hatsumode (the first shrine visit of the New Year). The huge ema (wooden prayer plaque) displayed at the gate is very popular, and some visitors come to the shrine for Hatsumode just to see it. Other highlights of Kitano Tenmangu Shrine include Sankomon Gate, the shrine repository, and the main shrine, which is designated as a National Treasure. Be sure to check out the video of Hatsumode at Kitano Tenmangu Shrine before reading along. Background Information for Kitano Tenmangu Shrine Photo：An ox statue at Kitano Tenmangu Shrine Tenmangu shrines are located throughout Japan and are known as gods of learning to which students pray for success in entrance examinations. The head shrine, Kitano Tenmangu Shrine, was built in the Heian period (794-1185 A.D.) and is dedicated to Sugawara no Michizane. The beautiful main shrine building was donated to the shrine by Toyotomi Hideyori and is designated as a National Treasure. Ishi no Ma, one of the halls at the shrine, and the statues of the fierce gods can be seen during special public viewing periods. The most distinctive feature of Kitano Tenmangu Shrine is the 10 plus statues of oxen that can be seen throughout the shrine. They are believed to be messengers of the god Sugawara no Michizane, who was born on the year of the Ox. It's said that touching the oxen and patting their heads will make you smarter, and petting their bodies will cure illnesses and injuries. Kitano Tenmangu Shrine is also said to bring blessings for the arts and culture and ward off bad luck among other things. At Fudehajime-sai, an event held in the precincts of the shrine, visitors write a kanji on a large sheet of paper with a brush to pray for success in their entrance exams. The shrine also sells shuin stamps bearing plums (the shrine crest), and good luck charms popular among students preparing for entrance exams can be obtained at the shrine office. Also, on the 25th of every month, there's a fair called Tenjin Ichi where shops selling antiques and household goods, as well as food stalls, line the temple grounds, attracting both local Kyoto residents and tourists. Hatsumode at Kitano Tenmangu Shrine – Information on Crowding and Parking! Photo：Kitano Tenmangu Shrine, Kyoto ※Photo taken in 2019 Kitano Tenmangu Shrine is also known as a popular shrine for Hatsumode. On the three days of the Japanese New Year, before the coronavirus pandemic, approximately 500,000 people would visit the shrine, making it the third most visited shrine in Kyoto after Fushimi Inari Grand Shrine and Yasaka Shrine. Therefore, New Year's is expected to be very crowded. During the first three days of the new year, New Year's Day in particular attracts a large number of visitors, so be sure to keep this in mind when visiting. Visiting hours are from New Year's Eve to 9:30 p.m. on New Year's Day, from 5:30 a.m. to 8:30 p.m. on the 2nd, and from 5:30 a.m. to 7:30 p.m. on the 3rd. Please refer to this information if you're planning to visit Kitano Tenmangu Shrine for Hatsumode. There are long lines everywhere in the precincts of the shrine, but if there's one thing we recommend seeing when visiting the shrine, it's the giant ema plaque. The giant ema with the year's zodiac sign written on it hangs at Romon Gate. It's a popular photo spot on New Year's, so be sure to take a picture to commemorate your visit. Parking is available at the shrine, but since it can be quite crowded during Hatsumode and there will be traffic restrictions in the area, it's recommended that visitors use public transportation. Kitano Tenmangu Shrine – Plum Blossoms, Autumn Leaves, and Other Seasonal Attractions! Photo：Autumn leaves at Kitano Tenmangu Shrine, Kyoto Kitano Tenmangu Shrine is also a sightseeing spot where beautiful plum blossoms and autumn leaves can be seen in different seasons. As Sugawara Michizane loved plums, Kitano Tenmangu Shrine is also famous for its plum garden. The Hana no Niwa plum garden on the grounds of the shrine is home to 1,500 plum trees of different varieties and is associated with Sugawara Michizane. Admission is 1,000 yen for adults and 500 yen for children, and tea cakes are available in the garden. The best time to view the plum blossoms is from mid-January to mid-March, so be sure to stop if you're visiting Kyoto in the spring. In the fall, visitors can enjoy a beautiful view of the main shrine, a National Treasure, and its 350 colored maple trees from the maple garden in the Odoi (an earthen fortification built by the famous warlord Toyotomi Hideyoshi). The entrance fee is the same as that for the plum garden, and the beautiful scenery is popular amongst photographers and instagrammers. Kitano Tenmangu Shrine is a shrine full of attractions: Hatsumode, plum blossoms in early spring, fresh greenery in summer, and autumn leaves in fall, and more. You can come to the shrine to pray for academic success as well as to visit it as a sightseeing spot in Kyoto! Summary of Kitano Tenmangu Shrine, Kyoto Kitano Tenmangu Shrine is very crowded during Hatsumode, and visits may take more than two hours. Be sure to take into consideration the time of year and your schedule before visiting the shrine. When visiting Kitano Tenmangu Shrine, we recommend that you stop by the Kitano Tenmangu Shrine teahouse for some tasty Chogoro mochi rice cakes as well. The refined Chogoro mochi, which was served at the Kitano Grand Tea Ceremony held by Toyotomi Hideyoshi, is an elegant Japanese confectionary with a thin rice cake skin and red bean paste. Definitely give it a try. It is expected to be very crowded, but why don't you go to Kitano Tenmangu Shrine at the beginning of this year and have a wonderful year with the benefit of Sugako? ◆Kitano Tenmangu Shrine◆ 【Address】Bakurocho, Kamigyo Ward, Kyoto, 602-8386 【Telephone】075-461-0005 【Parking】Available (For shrine visitors only) ※Parking is prohibited on the 25th of each month due to an event. 【Access】 Public Transportation: A short walk from the Kitano Tenmangu-mae bus stop on routes 50 and 101 of the city bus from JR Kyoto Station. A 5-minute walk from Kitano Hakubai-cho Station on the Keifuku Line. ※For other directions, please see the official website. 【Official Website】Kitano Tenmangu Shrine 【TripAdvisor】Kitano Tenmangu Shrine

Kinosaki Onsen's Winter Event, 'Crab Kingdom': Video Introduction This video, titled "'Crab Kingdom' at Kinosaki Onsen in Winter" (冬の城崎温泉「かに王国」), was uploaded by "kinosakiTV." The video begins with beautiful scenes of Kinosaki in winter. Be sure to check it out. [Video] 0:13 - A Sea of Clouds at Mt. Kuruhi [Video] 0:20 - Morning Mist on the Maruyama River [Video] 3:00 - Kinosaki Literature Museum The town of Kinosaki, located in Toyooka, Hyogo in Japan's Kansai region, is known for its hot springs. At 1,300 years old, Kinosaki Onsen is a large hot spring resort town, and its streets retain a historical atmosphere from a bygone era. In February of 2013, Kinosaki Onsen was awarded two stars in the third edition of the Michelin Green Guide Japan, and was also ranked first in the Hot Springs General Election of 2016, in the Inbound category, sponsored by the Japan Tourism Agency and the Ministry of the Environment. Kinosaki Onsen is popular among both domestic and international travelers. Kinosaki Onsen's Crab Kingdom (かに王国, Kani Oukoku) will open in conjunction with the arrival of the snow crab season in the winter. At Crab Kingdom, visitors can feast on delicious snow crab, which is only available during the winter months, and also participate in some unique events. In this article, we'll introduce Kinosaki Onsen's Crab Kingdom that takes place during winter! Crab Season at Kinosaki Onsen Photo：Snow crab Winter is all about crab in Japan, and snow crabs caught in the Sea of Japan in the San'in region, where Kinosaki Onsen is located, are said to be the most delicious in Japan. Snow crab is officially called "Zuwai-gani" (ズワイガニ) in Japanese, but the name for snow crab is different depending on what region you visit, with those caught in the San'in region being called "Matsuba-gani" (松葉ガニ). Because snow crab in Kinosaki grows in a plankton-rich environment, it's highly regarded for its superior meat and kani miso. The crab is ranked and sorted by professionals, and depending on the rank, it can cost anywhere from several thousand yen to several tens of thousands of yen. Freshness is the most important factor for snow crab caught in Kinosaki. Furthermore there is also Beni-zuwai-gani, which is the same as regular snow crab , but has slightly less meat, but a sweeter taste. The season for snow crab, which is hard to find outside of season, opens on November 6 and runs until March 20. Be sure to try Matsuba-gani, a luxury food only available in Kinosaki Onsen, if you visit during winter! [Video] 0:29 - The Opening of the Matsuba-gani Crab Season Christmas and Other Winter Events at Crab Kingdom Source :YouTube screenshot During the crab season at Kinosaki Onsen, the area is referred to as 'Crab Kingdom.' One of the highlights of Crab Kingdom is its unique winter events. The Crab Kingdom Shouting Contest is held to celebrate the opening of the Crab Kingdom with the arrival of the snow crab season. Wearing a crab hat and happi, visitors shout "Kani-san, Arigato!" (カニさんありがとう！, Thank you, crabs!), followed by a message they wish to share, and compete to see who can yell it the loudest. This shouting contest is unique to Kinosaki and has become a winter tradition. The winners of the contest receive prizes, including things like free snow crab. [Video] 1:15 - The Crab Kingdom Shouting Contest On Christmas Eve on December 24th, the Crab Santa Christmas Event will be held in front of JR Kinosaki Onsen Station.Limited to the first 200 people!A numbered ticket will be distributed in advance.It is a lottery to win Matsuba crab and Tajima beef.There is a lot of excitement around the big roulette! Please join us! [Video] 1:59 - The Crab Santa Christmas Event Day Trips and Overnight Stays to Feast on Crab in Kinosaki! Photo：Steamed crab in an earthenware pot, Kinosaki Onsen ※Image is for reference only For those interested in visiting Kinosaki in winter, nothing beats hitting the relaxing hot springs and filling your belly with tasty snow crab. Here are some recommended hotels and plans that allow you to do just that! If you're looking to taste the famous snow crab of Kinosaki Onsen, we recommend Yamashiroya (山しろや). At this Japanese-style inn, you can enjoy fresh snow crab from November to March. The most popular plan is the "Manpuku Kani-suki Plan" (満腹かにすきプラン), which includes crab sukiyaki, grilled crab, sashimi made from locally caught fish, zosui rice with kani miso (crab brain), and fruit, allowing you to enjoy a full meal of seasonal snow crab. The soup stock used for the crab sukiyaki is a secret recipe made by simmering 13 different ingredients for 9 hours. If you just want to get your fill of crab, and aren't worried about the smaller details of the trip, Kawaguchiya Kinosaki Riverside Hotel is a popular hotel that offers an all-you-can-eat crab dinner at an affordable price, and is just an 8-minute walk from Kinosaki Onsen Station via the JR San'in Line. For those with limited time, we recommend the Full Course Day-trip Crab Lunch Plan at Kawaguchiya Honkan. Located in the center of Kinosaki Onsen, Kawaguchiya Honkan is popular for its traditional Japanese-style atmosphere, ideal for touring the outside hot springs, and its private open-air baths with a lovely atmosphere. At this inn, you can also enjoy day-trip crab lunches of sukiyaki and grilled crab at a restaurant with a sunken kotatsu to keep you warm. Enjoy an amazing time at Kinosaki Onsen with relaxing hot springs and delicious snow crab! Summary of Kinosaki Onsen's 'Crab Kingdom' Kinosaki Onsen is famous for its seven outdoor hot springs, which visitors can tour while wearing traditional Japanese yukata. In addition, Kinosaki Onsen is famous for its snow crab which can be enjoyed in the winter months. Also, if you take part in the unique shouting contest, you can have some fun while also relieving some stress! This winter, plan a trip to Kinosaki Onsen's Crab Kingdom for scrumptious crab dishes and relaxing hot springs. [Video] 4:29 - Outdoor Hot Spring Tour 【TripAdvisor】Kinosaki Onsen

Video introduction of snowy scenery of “Kyoto Imperial Palace” in Kyoto City, Kyoto Prefecture This video, "Kyoto・A Snow-Covered Kyoto Imperial Palace｜Kyoto Japan 4K Video｜Snow FDR-AX100" (京都・雪の京都御所 Kyoto Japan 4K 動画 Snow FDR-AX100), released by "Kyoto 4K Videos Kyoto Videos" (京都4K動画KYOTO VIDEOS), is a valuable video introducing the Kyoto Imperial Palace, which had record snowfall in 2015, in beautiful 4K resolution. The Kyoto Imperial Palace was once the residence of the emperor. Currently, the Kyoto Gyoen National Garden situated around the Kyoto Imperial Palace is open to the public as a park. Many people, including tourists, visit throughout the year as you can enjoy cherry blossoms, plum blossoms, and autumn leaves around the enormous site. In this article, we'll be introducing the history, highlights, and tourist information of the Kyoto Imperial Palace. The video was shot early in the morning on a winter day with heavy snowfall. It showcases the glittering snowscape of the Kyoto Imperial Palace, shining under the morning sun. It's rare to have snow pile up so high in Kyoto, so definitely use this opportunity to take in the rare sight. Tourist Information and the History of the Kyoto Imperial Palace Photo：Kyoto Imperial Palace, Kenreimon Gate The Kyoto Imperial Palace is a facility managed by the Imperial Household Agency's Kyoto Office in Kamigyo Ward, Kyoto City, Kyoto Prefecture in Japan's Kansai region. The Kyoto Imperial Palace is located almost directly in the center of Kyoto Gyoen National Garden, and was the residence of the emperor when the national capital was changed to Kyoto in 794 during the Heian Period, until the Meiji Restoration (around 1853-1867). The current building that we see today was built in 1855. You can see the post-Heian period architectural styles of the Shishinden Hall and Seiryoden Hall, which retain the form of the ancient imperial palace. Also, Oikeniwa garden is very popular due to its beautiful Japanese strolling garden, and in the inner garden, there is a tea room where you can see an earthen bridge and a stone bridge. Access to the Kyoto Imperial Palace is a 5-minute walk from Imadegawa Station on the Karasuma Subway Line, or a 5-minute walk from Karasuma Imadegawa stop on the city bus. You can also enter the Kyoto Gyoen National Park from Marutamachi Station off the Karasuma Subway Line. Parking is also available. The Kyoto Imperial Palace is open to the public, no reservations are required, and admission is free. The time in which you can tour the facility differs by season, and it's recommended that you check the Imperial Household Agency website for information regarding holidays, etc. You can visit freely or participate in the Kyoto Imperial Palace Tour which is held in English, Japanese, and Chinese. There is also an audio guide app so we recommend using this as well. In addition, Kyoto Gyoen National Garden is open as a park and can be entered 24 hours a day. There's the Nakadachiuri and Tominokoji Rest Stations at Kyoto Gyoen National Garden and the Nakadachiuri Rest Station, which opened in 2019, has restaurants and souvenir shops where you can relax and grab a cup of coffee or a bite to eat. The Snowscape of the Kyoto Imperial Palace Source :YouTube screenshot From 0:04, the video begins with a scene of Karasuma Dori that runs west of Kyoto Gyoen National Garden. The Kyoto Imperial Palace is surrounded by a wall and has 6 gates. The south gate, called Kenrei-mon Gate, is the main gate of the Kyoto Imperial palace and clockwise from there is Gishu-mon Gate, Seisho-mon Gate, and Kogo-mon Gate the west side. Sakuhei-mon Gate sits at the north and at the southeast is Kenshun-mon Gate. There are also 12 other entrances with no roofs. You can see the snowscape of Kenrei-mon Gate from 0:45 and 1:50 in the video. Summary of the Snowscape of the Kyoto Imperial Palace This video, "Kyoto・A Snow-Covered Kyoto Imperial Palace｜Kyoto Japan 4K Video｜Snow FDR-AX100," introduces the snowscape of the Kyoto Imperial Palace in beautiful 4K resolution. Enjoy the wondrous snowscape of Kyoto Imperial Palace as snow falls from the trees. 【Official Website】Kyoto Imperial Palace https://sankan.kunaicho.go.jp/english/index.html 【Tripadvisor】Kyoto Imperial Palace https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g298564-d321088-Reviews-Kyoto_Imperial_Palace-Kyoto_Kyoto_Prefecture_Kinki.html