Nanao Castle" in Nanao City, Ishikawa Prefecture, one of the 100 best castles in Japan, video introduction This video, titled "Nanao Castle in ISHIKAWA, JAPAN / #34 of the Top 100 Castles of Japan｜4K" (【石川／日本100名城】七尾城／難攻不落の天宮 4K - Nanao castle in ISHIKAWA, JAPAN / The Top 100 Castles in Japan No.34 -), was uploaded by "channel WASABI." Introduces the ruins of Nanao Castle, a mountain castle in Nanao, Ishikawa, in Japan's Koshinetsu region, in beautiful 4K quality! Nanao Castle, one of the Top 100 Castles of Japan and a Nationally Designated Historic Site, is located at an elevation of 300m, overlooking Nanao Bay and the Noto Peninsula from the honmaru (inner citadel). Nanao Castle was considered an impregnable fortress during its prime, and you can still see the stone walls where the major parts of the castle were previously located. In this article, we'll introduce tourist information and travel tips for anyone planning to visit Nanao Castle. The video introduces the breathtaking scenery of Nanao Castle, a vast area located on a mountain ridge in the forests of Japan. For those who have studied or are interested in Japanese history, it paints a good picture of what the Sengoku Period (Japan's warring states period; around 1467 - 1615 AD) was like. Exploring the History of Nanao Castle Photo：Nanao Castle inner bailey ruins, Nanao, Ishikawa Nanao Castle is a mountain castle with a "kuruwa" (castle wall) on each of the seven ridges: Matsuo, Takeo, Umeo, Kikuo, Kameo, Torao, Tatsuo. There are still references that show it was also referred to as "Matsuo Castle," written both "松尾城" and "末尾城" (same pronunciation different kanji/spelling). Nanao Castle was built in the first half of the 16th century as the residence of the Hatakeyama Clan, a Japanese samurai clan who governed the province of Noto. It is a fortified castle that is said to be one of the Five Great Mountain Castles of Japan, and it fell after a roughly year-long battle with Uesugi Kenshin's forces. After that, Oda Nobunaga appointed Maeda Toshiie as Lord of Noto giving him the castle, however, after Toshiie moved to Kanazawa Castle, Nanao Castle was abandoned. Nanao Castle - Highlights and Tourist Information Photo：The view from Nanao Castle, Nanao, Ishikawa Nanao Castle is a large mountain castle. Highlights of Nanao Castle include the many stone walls that remain in nearly the same condition they were in hundreds of years ago, as well as the scenery of Nanao Bay and the Noto Peninsula which can be seen from the top of the mountain. The climbing route to reach Nanao Castle is covered with wood chips, but we recommended wearing shoes that are easy to walk in. If you want to climb from the foot of the mountain, you can use the Nanao Castle Trailhead Parking Lot (七尾城登山口駐車場), or you can park your car in the parking lot of the Nanao Castle History Museum and purchase a Nanao Castle Seal Stamp or a memorial stamp of the Top 100 Castles of Japan before starting your hike. At the Nanao Castle History Museum, visitors can explore exhibits such as excavated items related to Nanao Castle and reconstructions of Nanao Castle via computer generated architecture. In addition, the Nationally Registered Cultural Property "Kaikokan" (the former Iida family residence), which is adjacent to the museum, is another tourist attraction worth checking out. The time required to climb the mountain is about ~40 minutes from the parking lot of the Nanao Castle History Museum, following the formerly used road to the honmaru (inner citadel) ruins. There is also a 150-minute course for those looking to really explore and conquer the vast grounds of Nanao Castle. Photo：Nanao Station If you visit Nanao Castle via public transportation, you can reach the Nanao Castle History Museum from "Nanao Station" on the JR Nanao Line by taking the city circuit bus "Marin-go" (まりん号) and getting off at "Joyama no Sato" (城山の里). From there it's about a 60-minute walk. The stone wall of the Sakurababa Bailey Ruins above Chodo-maru (a former weapon's warehouse) is shown at 0:40 in the video, and the stone wall of the Honmaru Ruins at 2:42 are some of the highlights of Nanao Castle. There's also a shrine in the honmaru, and the scenery you can see from the Nanao Joyama Observatory, which is known to have been praised by Uesugi Kenshin, is shown at 3:52 in the video. Summary of the Nanao Castle Ruins This video, titled "Nanao Castle in ISHIKAWA, JAPAN / #34 of the Top 100 Castles of Japan｜4K," introduces Nanao Castle, a formerly impregnable mountain castle in Ishikawa Prefecture, in beautiful 4K. Be sure to refer to this article and visit Nanao Castle if you're planning on traveling in Noto! 【TripAdvisor】Nanao Castle Ruins https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g1021236-d1424256-Reviews-Nanao_Castle_Ruins-Nanao_Ishikawa_Prefecture_Hokuriku_Chubu.html

Zuiryuji Temple - An Exciting Tourist Destination in Takaoka This video, titled "JG☆☆☆☆8K HDR Toyama Zuiryuji Temple (National Treasure) - A Reflection of the Wealth and Advanced Architectural Techniques of the Kaga Domain - Enhanced Hi Technology" (JG☆☆☆☆8K HDR 富山 瑞龍寺(国宝) 加賀藩の栄華を反映した高度な建築技術 Toyama,Zuiryuji(National Treasure) Enhanced Hi Technology), was created by "JAPAN GEOGRAPHIC." Since the opening of the Hokuriku Shinkansen line, it has become much easier to travel to Toyama prefecture from Tokyo. In this article we'll go over a sightseeing spot we recommend those visiting Toyama prefecture check out! Without further ado, let's take a look at "Zuiryuji Temple." Zuiryuji Temple is a popular sightseeing destination in the city of Takaoka, Toyama Prefecture (previously known as the Kaga Domain), that has been designated a national treasure. The buildings, hallways and gardens are so beautifully crafted calling them works of art wouldn't be inaccurate. We hope you enjoy watching this video and experiencing what it feels like to walk the grounds of Zuiryuji Temple. The History of Zuiryuji Temple Photo：Sanmon gate at Zuiryuji Temple, Toyama Prefecture Zuiryuji Temple was built during the Kamakura period (1185 AD - 1333 AD) by the second generation Kaga domain feudal lord Toshinaga Maeda (前田利長). The temple was later named "Zuiryuin" (瑞龍院) by the third generation Kaga domain feudal lord Toshitsune Maeda (前田利常). The three main buildings of the temple: Sanmon Gate (山門), Butsuden (仏殿) and Hodo (法堂)), are built in a straight line (each one behind the other) in a beautiful symmetrical design. The current Sanmon Gate, seen at 0:28 in the video, was once destroyed by fire and rebuilt in the Edo period (1603 AD - 1868 AD). Major repairs were made during the Showa (昭和) and Heisei periods (平成) and Zuiryuji temple was officially registered as a national treasure in 1997. The burial ground of Toshinaga Maeda is also located within the temple grounds. Zuiryuji Temple - An Important Cultural Property of Japan Photo：The main gate of Zuiryuji Temple, Toyama Prefecture Zuiryuji Temple is home to many historical objects of great value, such as the statue of the Gautama Buddha (釈迦如来) in the temple's main hall. Seven of the temple's buildings have been designated Important Cultural Assets, including Somon Gate (総門), Zendo Hall (禅堂), Osado Hall (大茶堂), Takaroka (高廊下), the northern cloister (北回廊), the southeastern cloister (南東回廊) and the southwestern cloister (南西回廊). The wooden statue of Vidyaraja (the wisdom king in Buddhism) is registered as a Tangible Cultural Property of Japan. During the Edo period, the statue was placed in the bathroom and was said to have the power to bring cleanliness to dirty areas. From 1:12 in the video, you can see the beautiful garden leading towards the main temple building, truly one of the highlights of the video. Summary of Zuiryuji Temple Photo：The main hall at Zuiryu-ji Temple, Toyama Prefecture Zuiryuji Temple is one of the top sightseeing spots in the area and a great place to learn more about the history of the Kaga domain. There is a large car park situated nearby with 100 parking spaces making it easily accessible for those traveling by car. At Zuiryuji Temple, you can also purchase copies of sutras as well as take part in a Zazen (zen meditation) experience. There are many hotels and Japanese ryokan situated near the closest station (JR Takaoka station (JR高岡駅)), so consider spending the night and taking your time traveling around the Hokuriku (北陸) region of Japan. We hope that the next time you're in Japan's Hokuriku region, you'll consider visiting Zuiryuji Temple. The trip is sure to bring peace to both your mind and soul! 【Tripadvisor】Zuiryuji Temple https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g311426-d1308244-Reviews-Zuiryuji_Temple-Takaoka_Toyama_Prefecture_Hokuriku_Chubu.html 【Official Website】National Treasure – Zuiryuji Temple – Sightseeing Spot – Tourist Information in Toyama https://foreign.info-toyama.com/en/

Video introduction of "Tsurugi Shrine" in Niu-gun, Fukui Prefecture This video, titled "[Echizen] Tsurugi Shrine: the birthplace of the Oda family - Tsurugi Shrine, Fukui, JAPAN-" (【越前国二宮】劔神社／織田家発祥の地 -TsurugiI Jinja Shrine in Fukui, JAPAN–), was released by "channel WASABI." Tsurugi Shrine, also known as "Oda Myojin," is located in Echizen, Nyu District, Fukui Prefecture. The area is known as the birthplace of the Oda family, including the famous warlord Oda Nobunaga, and the shrine is highly revered as an "Ujigami.” The History of Tsurugi Shrine Source :YouTube screenshot The origin of Tsurugi Shrine, with a history dating back 1,800 years, goes back to when the god Susanoo was enshrined on the peak of Kuragatake and called "Tsurugidaijin" (劔大神, The Great God of Tsurugi). During the Nara Period (710-794 A.D.), when the shrine was known as a sacred site, Tsurugi Temple (劔神宮寺) was already built. It is also said that the shrine, which enshrines Susanoo-no-Mikoto (素盞嗚大神) and Kehi (氣比大神), was handed over to Prince Oshikuma, the son of Emperor Chuai, during the reign of Empress Jingu. After the Warring States Period (1467-1615 AD~), Tsurugi Shrine was protected and worshipped by the Shiba, Asakura, and Oda clans. The sacred crest of Tsurugi Shrine, which is closely connected to Oda Nobunaga, is the same as the family crest of the Oda family: the Oda Mokko (Flowering quince). Highlights of Tsurugi Shrine Source :YouTube screenshot The temple bell, a national treasure, is the third oldest bell in Japan and is said to have been made in the Nara Period. It is also home to many other temple treasures, including the important cultural property "The Eight Stages of Nirvana on Silk." In the video, you can see the large torii gate, Shinyoko (旧神前院摩堂, a storehouse for portable shrines), the Chozusha (a ritual water station for purifying oneself), and the Hall of Worship (拝殿, haiden) starting at 0:58, as well as the Omokaru Stone (おもかる石, a sacred wishing stone. It is said that if it’s lighter than you expect then your wish will come true. If it is heavier, it will be harder for your wish to come true.) at Komatsutate Isaoshi Shrine (小松建勲神社) and Yakushi Shrine (薬師神社) starting at 3:05 in the video. On the premises of Tsurugi Shrine, we recommend paying attention to the approach to the shrine, as well as checking the monument to the birthplace of the Oda clan, and more. Another attraction of Tsurugi Shrine is that you can enjoy the seasonal scenery, such as the Asian fawnlily that grow in clusters on the shrine grounds. During Hatsumode (the first shrine visit of the New Year) at Tsurugi Shrine, the shrine is also crowded with visitors. Summary of Tsurugi Shrine Source :YouTube screenshot Tsurugi Shrine is a famous power spot with 1,800 years of history and offers breathtaking views, as shown in the video. If you're looking to enjoy a wonderful time at a shrine with a rich history to cleanse both your body and mind, consider adding Tsurugi Shrine to your Itinerary. We recommend bringing your own shuin stamp book when you visit Tsurugi Shrine. Be sure to get a good luck charm as well! ◆Tsurugi Shrine Overview◆ 【Address】113-1 Ota, Echizen, Nyu District, Fukui 916-0215 【Access】Take a bus from JR Takefu Station and get off at the Myojin-mae bus stop, or 30 minutes by car from the Takefu I.C. or Sabae I.C. 【Hours】8:00 – 17:00 【Parking】Available 【Telephone】0778-36-0404 【Tripadvisor】Tsurugi Shrine https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g1023595-d10556800-Reviews-Tsurugi_Shrine-Miyoshi_Tokushima_Prefecture_Shikoku.html

Ueda Castle" in Ueda City, Nagano Prefecture, the subject of a popular historical drama Video Introduction This video, titled "[Aerial Footage] A Travelogue of Ueda Castle [Drone]" (【空撮】空撮上田城紀行　【ドローン】), was produced by "HEXaMedia." Ueda Castle, introduced in the video, is a castle that was built by Sanada Masayuki, the father of the famous warlord Sanada Yukimura. Currently, it is a proud historical tourist destination in Ueda city, Nagano prefecture, and is included in "Japan's Top 100 Castles" and is also a "Night View Heritage of Japan." The castle was constructed during the Tensho period (1573-1592) in the Warring States period (1467-1615). Ueda Castle is also famous for being an impregnable castle, having survived 2 fierce attacks by the Tokugawa Family. The depiction of the Tokugawa Family attacking the castle at the battle of Ueda Castle has been used for many TV dramas and movies. In recent years, it has become widely talked about as the stage of the first of the Ueda Battles in the NHK TV Taiga Drama "Sanadamaru." This time, we introduce a video showing beautiful aerial views of the Ueda Castle ruins, shot via drone. Present-Day Ueda Castle Photo：Nagano prefecture, Ueda Castle The present-day Ueda Castle ruins are a restoration that was done in 1994. It consists of a pillar stone on the right side of the inner citadel which was made by Sanada Masayuki, and a tower gate that was demolished in the Meiji era (1868-1912). It was also called Amagabuchi Castle due to the fact that it was located on the north side of the Ueda Basin and adjacent to Amagabuchi, a distributary of the Chikuma River. Surrounded by the Chikuma River in the south, the Amagabuchi distributary in the north, the Yadezawa River to the west, and the Hiruzawa River in the east; the Ueda Castle was a natural fortress that survived the fierce attacks of the Tokugawa army twice. However, during the reign of the 7th castle lord, Matsudaira Tadachika, the stone walls that were damaged by the flood of Kyoho were restored. As you can see from 1:59 in the video, the present-day ruins of the inner citadel of Ueda Castle have become Sanada Shrine and the old well that is there is called the Sanada well, which is said to have been a secret passage that led to the Taro Mountain Foothills located north of the castle. The History of Ueda Castle Photo：Nagano prefecture, Ueda Castle Ueda Castle, which was said to have been impregnable, was used by many castle lords even after the Sanada clan was placed under house arrest (a punishment of being confined in one room). After the Battle of Sekigahara, Sengoku Tadamasa became the lord of the castle. Originally, Ueda Castle was located in the province of Shinano, sandwiched between the eastern and western armies, and was designed and built to specialize in defense rather than as a base for attack. Traditionally, it was standard practice to build a castle tower on the roof of the inner citadel, but no such records of a castle tower at Ueda Castle exist. Ueda Castle reigned in the Shinano Province for approximately 300 years from the year it was built to the era of Tadafusa Matsudaira, the last lord of the castle, and the Ueda Castle Town is said to have prospered as a key transportation hub. Highlights of Ueda Castle Source :YouTube screenshot At present, Ueda Castle is without an inner citadel or castle tower; however, there are still a lot of places to see due to its unique structure. These include the Southern watchtower, Northern watchtower, and the Higashi Koguchi Watchtower Gate (0:24 in the video). In the spring, there's the Senbon Zakura Festival (Festival of a Thousand Cherry Blossoms) and in the fall, Ueda Castle Keyaki Tree Autumnal Color Festival is held. The Sanada Festival is held every year at the Ueda Castle castle-town. During this time, you can enjoy the illuminated Ueda Castle ruins. Also, at the Higashi Koguchi main gates, there's the Sanada stone, which is said to be a remnant of the Sanada Family. The West watchtower (0:34- of the video) was built by Sengoku Tadamasa in the Warring States period and it is the only historical building still around from the Edo period (1603-1868). ・Ishidoi This is a stone canal that leads from Ninomaru in Ueda City, Nagano Prefecture to the track and field stadium at the site of the Hyakenbori Ruins. ・Sumiotoshi The unique shape of the sumiotoshi in the inner citadel was created by cutting off a corner of the earthen mound to ward off evil spirits with feng shui. ・Ueda City Museum A museum located in the Ueda Castle Ruins Park. Summary of Ueda Castle Photo：Ema of Ueda Castle Ruins Park Ueda Castle Site Park, the centerpiece of Ueda City's tourism, offers a variety of hospitality in addition to events to welcome visitors. The red seal of Sanada Shrine and the castle seal of Ueda Castle are great ways to remember your visit. For more information on parking, transportation, and event guides to the castle, please visit the Ueda Castle official website. Ueda Castle was once an unbeatable castle that not even the famous Tokugawa Ieyasu or Toyotomi Hideyoshi could conquer. Visit Ueda Castle and learn about the fierce warriors, such as Sanada Juyushi led by Yukimura, and the warrior Sanada Nobushige that was said to be the strongest in Japan! 【Tripadvisor】Ueda Castle https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g1021326-d1412214-Reviews-Ueda_Castle-Ueda_Nagano_Prefecture_Koshinetsu_Chubu.html

21st Century Museum of Contemporary Art, Kanazawa" Kanazawa, Ishikawa, Japan Video Introduction This video is titled "A Trip to 21st Century Museum of Contemporary Art, Kanazawa♪ Check Out the Famous Swimming Pool Artwork!" (金沢21世紀美術館でアートな旅♪有名なプールの作品を見に行こう！). The video is about of 2 minutes long and introduces various photogenic spots in Kanawaza, Ishikawa prefecture, with a focus on the 21st Century Museum of Contemporary Art, Kanazawa. The Kanazawa 21st Century Museum of Contemporary Art, located in Kanazawa, Ishikawa in the Hokuriku region, is also called "Marubie" and "21 Beauty." Enjoy a variety of contemporary pieces at 21st Century Museum of Contemporary Art, Kanazawa, called "the mecca of contemporary art." The Top Works at 21st Century Museum of Contemporary Art, Kanazawa Source :YouTube screenshot Introduced at 0:09 in the video is "Color Activity House," an art piece of glass in the three primary colors that swirls and changes color depending on where it is viewed from. Other works of art include "Wrapping," a children's favorite at 0:45 in the video, "Maru," a spherical piece at 0:57, as well as "Crankfelt Number 3 for the Arena," a piece of art that changes colors as you look at it. The artwork introduced at 1:07 in the video is "Swimming Pool," a particularly popular piece of art at 21st Century Museum of Contemporary Art, Kanazawa. There's actually a space inside the pool where visitors can go in and out, making it feel like you're underwater. For more information on other works, please see the official website. The collection policy of the collections at the Kanazawa 21st Century Museum of Contemporary Art, is as follows from the catalog. ・ Works of art created after 1900 that serve as historical reference points. ・ Works produced after the 1980s that propose new values. ・ New and creative works by artists associated with Kanazawa Highlights of 21st Century Museum of Contemporary Art, Kanazawa Photo：21st Century Museum of Contemporary Art, Kanazawa 21st Century Museum of Contemporary Art, Kanazawa has a free exhibition space, an exchange and exhibition zone, a café and restaurant where visitors can enjoy lunch and sweets, and a museum shop where Japanese souvenirs can be purchased. The see-through elevator is also one of the works of the museum. You can also take a break with art works such as cute rabbit-shaped chairs and long chairs that can be seen at 1:38 in the video. Many of the artworks on display are only available for a limited time. The ones created by TeamLab are especially popular, drawing crowds day after day. There are also long-term exhibitions that can be viewed for free. The museum also has a library and a children's studio, both of which have art on display that will keep you entertained all day long. One of the Museum is that you can enjoy the free area alone. Summary of 21st Century Museum of Contemporary Art, Kanazawa Photo：21st Century Museum of Contemporary Art, Kanazawa Summary of 21st Century Museum of Contemporary Art, Kanazawa, in Ishikawa Prefecture, introduced in the video, is a great art spot for family trips and dates. Since the opening of the Hokuriku Shinkansen, the number of Japanese and foreign tourists visiting sightseeing trips to Kanazawa City, Ishikawa Prefecture has increased. Please visit the 21st Century Museum of Contemporary Art, Kanazawa, in Ishikawa Prefecture, along with other nearby sightseeing spots. ◆21st Century Museum of Contemporary Art, Kanazawa◆ 【Address】1 Chome-2-1 Hirosaka, Kanazawa, Ishikawa 920-8509 【Access】10 minutes by bus from JR Kanazawa Station, a short walk from the Hirosaka bus stop, and a 5 minute walk from the Korinbo bus stop. 【Hours】Exhibition zone 10: 00-18: 00 (Friday and Saturday until 20:00), Exchange zone 9: 00-22: 00 【Stay time】1-2 hours 【Telephone No】076-220-2800 【Parking】Available (30 minutes free, 150 yen every 30 minutes thereafter, 1000 yen/night maximum) 【Admission fee】Varies by exhibition (free areas available) (advance tickets available) 【Director】Atsuhiko Shima 【Official Website】Kanazawa 21st Century Museum of Contemporary Art. https://www.kanazawa21.jp/en/ 【Tripadvisor】21st Century Museum of Contemporary Art, Kanazawa https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g298115-d1439759-Reviews-21st_Century_Museum_of_Contemporary_Art-Kanazawa_Ishikawa_Prefecture_Hokuriku_Chu.html

Togakushi Shrine" in Nagano City, Nagano Prefecture Video Introduction This video, titled "Togakushi Jinja - Oku Sha" (戸隠神社・奥社 Togakushi Jinja - Oku Sha), was created by "sirousaghi." Togakushi Shrine (戸隠神社, Togakushi Jinja), located in Nagano City, Nagano Prefecture, has an upper shrine and a middle shrine at the foot of Mt. Togakushi (戸隠山,Togakushiyama), which is said to have taken its present form from "Amano-Iwato," when the gods still walked the earth. At the end of the 270 stone steps is a shrine with a history of more than 2000 years, made up of five shrines, including Hoko-sha, Kuzuryu-sha, Hinomiko-sha, and more. In the days of Shinbutsu-shugo, a mixture of Shinto and Buddhism, it was called Togakushiyama Kenkoji and was a sacred site for Shugendo, and was widely worshipped until the separation of Shinto and Buddhist beliefs. The upper shrine is dedicated to Ame-no-Tajikarao, who opened Amano-Iwato with his divine power. As the head shrine of Togakushi Shrine, the upper shrine is said to have the power to bring good luck, fulfill wishes, bring bountiful harvest, and bring victory in sports. The video starts from the Ikkan Ryuoshi, which can be seen at 0:43, and Zuishinmon Gate can be seen in the middle of the 2km long approach. This is followed by a line of around 150 Japanese cedar trees on the right and 130 on the left. Beyond that, there is Iizuna Shrine (飯縄社, Iizuna Jinja), which is shown from 1:39 in the video. In front of the upper shrine, there is Kuzuryu Shrine dedicated to Kuzuryu. The exact date is unknown, but it has been dedicated and worshipped as a Jinushigami since before Ame-no-Tajikarao was enshrined. The History of Togakushi Shrine Photo：Togakushi upper shrine shrine approach, Nagano Prefecture Togakushi Shrine is made up of five shrines around Mt. Togakushi, in northwestern Nagano. It is registered as a "Kokuhei Shosha" (a Shinto shrine that receives money from the national government or prefectural governments). There are many theories about the origin of the shrine, and one of them is that current upper shrine was built in 210 B.C., but Kuzuryu Shrine is said to be even older than the upper shrine. There is also a legend that Ame-no-Tajikarao was welcomed by Kuzuryu, the Jinushigami of the area. The name of Mt. Togakushi, which is also an object of worship of Togakushi Shrine, comes from the legend that Amaterasu-Ookami was angry with her brother Susano-o-Mikoto, who was hiding in Amano-Iwato, so, Ame-no-Tajikarao threw it with all his might, and a part of it flew away and became a mountain. There are two important cultural properties stored at Togakushi Shrine: the incomplete remains of "Hokekyo" volume 4 by Fujiwara no Sadanobu and |"Geshaku" which is one of the five ivory shaku existing in Japan. Access to Togakushi Shrine Photo：Togakushi upper shrine, Nagano Prefecture Access to Togakushi Shrine is as follows. 【Access via car】 If you're going via highway, get off at the Nagano Interchange or the Shinanomachi Interchange. We recommend getting off at the Shinanomachi Interchange. There is little traffic this way and getting to the shrine is easy. Take Route 18 towards downtown Nagano, turn right at the "Issa Memorial Museum Entrance" (一茶記念館入口) intersection, and pass through the foot of Mt. Kurohime (about 30 minutes). It's possible to drive to Togakushi Shrine, but you'll have to walk to the upper shrine, so please be aware that the parking lot can get quite crowded. 【Access via walking】 if you're coming on foot, you can take the train, bus, taxi, or use a car rental service. There is a local bus from JR Nagano Station to Togakushi Shrine, which takes about 70 minutes (Bus stop No.7 at Nagano Station). Sightseeing Information for Togakushi Shrine Photo：Zaru Soba There are a lot of sightseeing destinations around Togakushi Shrine: ・Togakushi Forest Botanical Garden ・Togakushi Folk Museum ・Togakushi Ninja Museum ・Ninja Trick Mansion ・Kagami Ike Pond ・Togakushi Campground ・Chibikko Ninja Village These are just a few famous sightseeing sites in Nagano. You can also enjoy specialties of Nagano, such as soba. Summary of Togakushi Shrine Photo：A row of cedar trees at upper Togakushi shrine, Nagano Prefecture While you can of course enjoy the history of Togakushi Shrine, it's also popular sightseeing spot for couples because of the two Japanese cedar trees, which are believed to bring good fortunate to couples. There's also "Togakushi Shrine Daidai Kagura," an Intangible Folk Cultural Property of Nagano. Togakushi Shrine is also one of the most famous power spots in Nagano. You can visit to collect shuin or buy good luck charms as well. There are many other amazing sightseeing locations, so be sure to explore the area during your visit to Nagano! 【Tripadvisor】Togakushi Shrine https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g298565-d1371708-Reviews-Togakushi_Shrine_Okusha-Nagano_Nagano_Prefecture_Koshinetsu_Chubu.html

日本一の渓谷・山梨県の「昇仙峡」紹介動画について こちらの動画は「FUJISAN DRONE BASE - 富士山ドローンベース」が公開した「絶景 空撮 昇仙峡 金櫻神社 | Kanazakura-jinja Shrine, Shosenkyo Gorge, Kofu, Yanamashi」です。 こちらの動画は日本の桜の名所・昇仙峡の金櫻神社を空撮した映像です。 2分ほどでご覧になれる映像なので、 ・日本の桜の人気スポットを知りたい ・日本の寺院や鳥居と一緒に桜を観たい という方にオススメです。 日本が誇る観光名所、昇仙峡の金櫻神社の魅力について紹介していきます。 昇仙峡とは？日本一の渓谷周辺の豊かな自然を紹介 昇仙峡は山梨県甲府市にある渓谷です。 渓谷とは谷間や山に挟まれた川のある場所のこと。 国の特別名勝に指定されています。 昇仙峡は「全国観光地百選」渓谷の部では第1位、平成百景では第2位と日本でも有数の観光地です。 新緑に色づく山々と澄んだ水のコントラストは筆舌に尽くしがたい美しさ。 動画では上空からドローン撮影した金櫻神社や昇仙峡を囲む自然の美しさを体感できます。 パワースポットとしても有名な金櫻神社 寺院の魅力に迫る 昇仙峡の上に鎮座するパワースポット「金櫻神社」。 2000年前に建立されたとされる由緒ある寺院です。 金峰山の頂点に位置しています。 本殿や元の昇り龍・降り龍は残念ながら焼失してしまいましたが、現在では復元されたものを拝むことができます。 御神宝はこの地で発掘された水晶「火の玉・水の玉」。 動画でご覧になれるような桜と本殿をどちらも眺めることができるのは春のわずかな時期。 金櫻神社の周辺のおすすめは？ 日本屈指の美しい桜の開花を眺めることができる金櫻神社。 近くには夫婦木神社や水晶峠のヒカリゴケ洞穴などの観光スポットも。 夫婦木神社で神木に夫婦仲円満を祈るのもおすすめです。 御朱印帳の受付もしています。 動画ではドローンによる撮影のため、普段なかなかご覧になることの出来ない絶景を見ることができます。 穴場の観光スポット昇仙峡 金櫻神社へのアクセス方法 昇仙峡は山梨県甲府市にあります。 甲府駅からバスで30分の「昇仙峡口」で下車。 成田駅からは特急を利用して3時間ほど。 金櫻神社の美しい桜が観られる！日本一の渓谷昇仙峡紹介まとめ 日本一の渓谷と呼ばれる昇仙峡の金櫻神社。 参拝国の特別名勝としても知られ、お花見の季節には多くの観光客が訪れます。 「まずはどんな観光スポットか知りたい！」という方は、こちらの動画で桜の季節の金櫻神社のお花見を楽しんでみてはいかがでしょうか。

Yamanashi Minamitsuru-gun "Mt. Fuji World Heritage Center" Video Introduction This video, titled "Mt. Fuji World Heritage Centre Promotional Video" (富士山世界遺産センター紹介ムービー - Fujisan World Heritage Center Promotion Movie), was produced by the "Mt. Fuji World Heritage Centre" (富士山世界遺産センター). The video conveys the value of Mt. Fuji as a World Heritage Site. The Mt. Fuji World Heritage Centre is also a base for Mt. Fuji's conservation activities and research, and the center also contributes to tourism promotion. The museum is a new facility that makes full use of the latest technology, and you're sure to want to experience it yourself after watching the video. In this article, we'll introduce the charm of the Mt. Fuji World Heritage Centre alongside the video. About the Mt. Fuji World Heritage Centre Source :YouTube screenshot The Mt. Fuji World Heritage Centre, located in Fujikawaguchiko, Yamanashi Prefecture in Japan's Kanto region, is a facility that conveys the value of Mt. Fuji as a World Heritage Site to future generations. As a guidance facility for the Yamanashi Prefecture side of Mt. Fuji, they opened the new South Building in 2016, next to the Yamanashi Prefectural Fuji Visitor Center. It's a place where visitors can experience the beautiful scenery of Mt. Fuji, create relationships with people, and share the value of Mt. Fuji. It also incorporates the latest technology, and as you can see from 0:34 in the video, you can download a smartphone app to enjoy the exhibition even more. Shuzo Matsuoka is in charge of the Japanese audio guide for the app. Highlights of the Mt. Fuji World Heritage Centre Source :YouTube screenshot The Mt. Fuji World Heritage Centre has many attractions. You can watch the beautiful scenery at "Fugaku 360," with its beautiful lighting effects and powerful soundscape overlapping Mt. Fuji, designed with Japanese paper, at 0:50 in the video. It's a popular facility that allows you to see Mt. Fuji from all angles. Next, from 1:07 in the video, you can see the "Lava Tree Molds Vision," which is an area that introduces the relationship between nature and people and the legend of the goddess of Mt. Fuji. The app is also equipped with an AR function that provides various information. You can enjoy an original animation by scanning the model inside the Mt. Fuji World Heritage Centre with your smartphone. This can be seen at 1:29 in the video. Outdoors, you can use it as a guide to find nearby sightseeing spots. It also has a function called "Mt. Fuji Sengen" that allows you to post your efforts to preserve Mt. Fuji. We also recommend trying the mountain climbing experience, which can be seen at 1:44 in the video. It feels just like climbing Mt. Fuji! The "Fuji Northern Foothills Pilgrimage Mandala" by contemporary artist Akira Yamaguchi "Fuji Hokuroku Sankei Mandala" is also on display and is a must-see for any art fans. Mt. Fuji World Heritage Centre Facility Overview and General Information Source :YouTube screenshot The new South Wing was designed by the Tatsumi First Class Architects Office. It's a wooden Japanese-style facility with an exterior surrounded by trees, reminiscent of Aokigahara Forest. The exhibition room in the north building includes a nature corner, a world heritage guidance corner, an event space, and a high-definition screen. Also, don't miss the Ochudo corridor on the 2nd floor of the south building, the food and cafes in the north building, and the restaurants and shops where you can eat delicious food and buy souvenirs. The Mt. Fuji World Heritage Centre is a 1 minute walk from Kawaguchiko Station by free bus. By car, it's 300 meters from the Kawaguchiko Interchange on the Chuo Expressway. Parking and admission are free. Summary of the Mt. Fuji World Heritage Centre "Mt. Fuji World Heritage Centre Promotional Video," produced by "Mt. Fuji World Heritage Centre" is a video introducing the attractions of Mt. Fuji, a World Heritage Site. There are many impressive pieces, including large works of Mt. Fuji and beautiful paintings, and it is a facility that everyone from children to adults can enjoy. If you're interested, be sure to stop by, as admission the to the Mt. Fuji World Heritage Centre is free. ◆ Fuji World Heritage Center Facility Overview ◆ 【Address】 6663-1 Funatsu, Fujikawaguchiko Town, Minamitsuru District, Yamanashi Prefecture, 401-0301 【Access】8 minutes by bus from Kawaguchiko Station on the Fujikyujo Line, or 300 meters from Kawaguchiko Interchange on the Chuo Expressway. 【Admission fee】Free 【Hours】9:00 to 17:00 (July to September 8:30 to 18:00, December to February 9:00 to 16:00) 【Closures】Open all year round 【Parking】Available. Bus: 29 spots, cars: 78 spots 【Phone number】0555-72-0259 【Official Website】Shizuoka Prefecture Mt. Fuji World Heritage Centre https://mtfuji-whc.jp/en/ 【Tripadvisor】Mt. Fuji World Heritage Centre https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g780857-d13327517-Reviews-Mt_Fuji_World_Heritage_Centre_Shizuoka-Fujinomiya_Shizuoka_Prefecture_Tokai_Chub.html

Kanazawa Castle" in Kanazawa City, Ishikawa Prefecture, Japan Video Introduction This video, titled "Ishikawa Kanazawa Castle - 金沢城 - 4K Ultra HD" introduces information about Kanazawa castle in Ishikawa Prefecture. The video was published by "TokyoStreetView - Japan The Beautiful." Kanazawa castle is one of the most popular tourist spots in the Hokuriku Region. At Kanazawa castle, you can learn about the history of Ishikawa, Kanazawa, a place known as a prosperous castle town in Kaga Hyakumangoku. Kaga Hyakumangoku refers to the measure of wealth the Kaga region attained during the early rule of the Maeda clan and the artisan culture they promoted over the following three centuries. The video shows the beautiful Kanazawa castle, a national historical site. In the article, we'll talk about Kanazawa castle alongside the video. Try to keep up! What is Kanazawa Castle? Photo：Kanazawa Castle Park in Kanazawa, Ishikawa Prefecture Kanazawa castle is located in Marunouchi, Kanazawa, in Ishikawa prefecture (Formerly Kaga province, Ishikawa-gun, Kaganokuni). It was built on the Kodatsuno Plateau between the Saigawa River and the Asano River, which flows through the Kanazawa plains. During Edo period (1603-1868), Kanazawa castle prospered as a castle town of Kaga Hyakumangoku and was used as a residence of the Maeda clan, the head of the Kaga domain. Today, the area around the castle, including the ruins of Kanazawa Castle, a national historic site, has been developed into Kanazawa Castle Park, and is one of Kanazawa's most popular tourist attractions. Kanazawa castle was constructed from the Warring States period (1467-1615) to the Edo period and is classified as a hilltop castle with a teikakushiki layout. It has a distinctive exterior with white walls made of white mortar and flat lead tiles. The beautiful white roof tiles of Kanazawa Castle can be seen at 0:04 in the video. Hashizume mon (gate) is the highlight of Kanazawa castle. Although it was burned down in 1881, it was restored to its former glory in 2015. Be sure to check out the interesting shapes of the rocks used in the stone walls at different gates. There so many interesting spots in Kanazawa park! The castle tower was destroyed by lightning three years after Toshiie Maeda became lord of the castle after the Battle of Shizugatake. There was a plan to restore the castle tower, but due to a lack of resources, it was difficult to do so. Tour Information for Kanazawa Castle Photo：Kanazawa Castle Park in Kanazawa, Ishikawa Prefecture Kanazawa castle is open year round. Between March 1st and October 15th it's open from 7 am to 6 pm and from October 16th to the end of February it's open from 8 am to 5 pm. Admission to Kanazawa Castle is free, but there are charges to enter Hishigaya Turret, Gojukken Nagaya Warehouse, Hashizume-mon, and the Tsuzuki Yagura Turret. The admission fees for these places are 320 yen for adults and 100 yen for children. Access is about 10 minutes by taxi from Kanazawa Station. By car, it takes about 30 minutes from the Kanazawa West IC (金沢西IC) on the Hokuriku Expressway. There are 3 different parking areas near Kanazawa castle. The illumination of Kanazawa Castle and Kenrokuen is a popular seasonal event. During this time, Kenrokuen will be open to the public free of charge at night and is lit up for a limited time. The autumn foliage and the fantastic scenery of lights are must-sees. Summary of Kanazawa castle. Photo：Kanazawa Castle Park in Kanazawa, Ishikawa Prefecture The video in this article introduces the beautiful scenery of Kanazawa castle. There is so much to see at Kanazawa Castle Park. Kenrokuen is known as one of the three greatest gardens of Japan, and is a place where you can enjoy the view of a traditional Japanese garden. You can also collect a stamp from Kanazawa castle if you have a stamp book. It's a great place for history buffs as well! 【Official Website】Kanazawa castle and Kenrokuen - Ishikawa http://www.pref.ishikawa.jp/siro-niwa/english/top.html 【Tripadvisor】Kanazawa castle https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g298115-d324909-Reviews-Kanazawa_Castle-Kanazawa_Ishikawa_Prefecture_Hokuriku_Chubu.html

This video, titled "[4K] A Festival Float With a Dynamic Ceiling Painting by Katsushika Hokusai｜Obuse, Nagano｜The Hokusai Museum｜nippon.com" (【4K】葛飾北斎の天井絵が躍動する祭屋台：長野・小布施「北斎館」| nippon.com), was released by "nippon.com." Obuse, a popular tourist town in Nagano Prefecture, houses the Hokusai Museum, which exhibits paintings by Katsushika Hokusai. Katsushika Hokusai was an ukiyo-e artist from the Edo Period, and at the age of 83, he visited Obuse in Shinshu to work on a painting. At the Hokusai Museum in Obuse, a work called the "Matsuri Yatai" (festival float) is on display, which is said to be the only three-dimensional object created by Hokusai. The dynamic dragons and phoenixes on the festival float are a sight to behold. Be sure to visit the Hokusai Museum in Obuse to see the dynamic painting by Katsushika Hokusai.

Chureito - The Five-story Pagoda at Arakurayama Sengen Park in Fujiyoshida, Yamanashi This video, titled "The Cherry Blossoms of Chureito Pagoda - Yamanashi - Chureito - 4K Ultra HD" (The Cherry Blossoms of Chureito Pagoda - Yamanashi - 忠霊塔 - 4K Ultra HD), was released by "Tokyo Street View --Japan The Beautiful." Mt. Fuji, cherry blossoms, and shrines and temples are just some of the things that come to mind when one imagines Japan. This video, shot in 4K Ultra HD, is brimming with the beauty of Japan! The atmosphere and beauty will have you feeling like you're visiting Arakurayama Sengen Park's Chureito Pagoda to go see Mt. Fuji and the surrounding cherry blossoms yourself! Not only is it beautiful, but the Yoshino cherries and Chureito Pagoda also have a melancholy history, and we'll explain that as well... The video starts with a breathtaking view of Chureito, the five-storied pagoda with a beautiful vermilion coating, but what lies here is a cenotaph that honors and enshrines the remains of those who perished in previous wars. There are approximately 650 yoshino cherries planted around Chureito Pagoda in Arakurayama Sengen Park. The cherry blossom is a beautiful flower that symbolizes not only Japan, but also war. In other words, the Chureito Pagoda and the yoshino cherries are meant to be memorials and flowers for the spirits of the dead. The official name of Chureito Pagoda is "Fujiyoshida Cenotaph Monument," which means that it is not a general shrine or temple, but a memorial Pagoda owned by the city. (Chureito Pagoda is, however, erected on the premises of Arakura Fuji Sengen Shrine) A Sightseeing Spot Representing Yamanashi Prefecture Photo：Arakurayama Sengen Park Chureito in Arakurayama Sengen Park, located in Fujiyoshida City, Yamanashi Prefecture, is a tourist destination that represents Yamanashi Prefecture and is visited by many tourists every year. Just by watching the video, it isn't hard to understand why. It's a culmination of the beautiful scenery that symbolizes Japan, condensed into one location. Also, when climbing the 398 steps leading to the observation deck of Arakurayama Sengen Park, you'll find "the place where Mt. Fuji looks most beautiful." Selected as one of the "One Hundred Views of Mount Fuji" and featured on the cover of the 4th edition of "Michelin Green Guide Japan," it is one of the most famous places to see beautiful scenery, both in Japan and overseas. It has become explosively popular in the last few years, especially with visitors from Thailand. It has been worshiped as a sacred place, and many Thai people have come to Japan to see this scenery with their own eyes. On the grounds of Arakurayama Sengen Park and on the grounds of Arakura Fuji Sengen Shrine, there are promenades surrounded by tree, including cherry blossoms, pine trees, cypresses, and zelkovas, as well as hiking trails with small pavilions. Many tourists come to enjoy the autumn leaves here in the fall. During the cherry blossom festival, events are held on stages, there are booths featuring delicious local cuisine, and the Arakurayama Sengen Park area is shrouded in a gorgeous atmosphere. In order to enjoy the night views of the cherry blossoms and Chureito Pagoda, live cameras are installed in the area so guests visiting via the internet can enjoy them as well. Also, winter is expected to be quite crowded with worshippers coming to celebrate hatsuhinode, the first sunrise of the year, so it's best to check visiting information online before heading out to the shrine. Summary of Arakurayama Sengen Park Photo：Arakurayama Sengen Park Shimizu Port in Shizuoka Prefecture is also famous for its view of Mt. Fuji, but the best place to enjoy the traditional Japanese beauty of cherry blossoms and a vermillion-colored pagoda along with Mt. Fuji is, without a doubt, Arakurayama Sengen Park and Chureito Pagoda. Information on transportation access to Arakurayama Sengen Park and free parking (up to 96 standard vehicles) can be found on the official Fujiyoshida City Tourism Guide website. The road to the free parking lot may be closed, especially during winter, so be sure to check the information on the website before visiting. 【Official Website】Arakurayama Sengen Park・Chureito Pagoda – Fujiyoshida City Tourism Guide https://fujiyoshida.net/en/see-and-do/12 【TripAdvisor】Chureito Pagoda https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g739128-d15113628-Reviews-Churei_Tower-Gotemba_Shizuoka_Prefecture_Tokai_Chubu.html

The Takaoka Copper Casting of Takaoka City, Toyama Prefecture – A Traditional Japanese Craft This video, titled "手技TEWAZA「高岡銅器」Takaoka Copper Casting," was produced by "Japan Traditional Crafts Aoyama Square." It introduces Takaoka Copper Casting, a traditional craft in Takaoka City, Toyama. Takaoka Copper Casting in Takaoka City, Toyama originates from a factory opened in the Edo period (1603 – 1868 AD) by Maeda Toshinaga in the Kaga Maeda Clan with the seven metal casters from Tamba, Kyoto, said to be the birthplace of metal casting. Most of the Takaoka Copper Casting products are related to Buddhist tools such as vases and a large part of the production process involves the attentive handiwork of artisans. The traditional Japanese craftsmanship is appreciated even outside of Japan. The Takaoka Great Buddha at Daibutsuji Temple (大佛寺, Daibutsu-ji) is said to be one of the most impressive pieces made by the Takaoka Copper Casting artisans. This is a rare video that introduces the production process of Takaoka Copper Casting. Please enjoy watching the craftsmanship of the Takaoka copper casting artisans. Takaoka Copper Casting: One of the Greatest Treasures in Japanese Culture- How It's Done Source :YouTube screenshot Takaoka Copper Casting is essentially produced with a metal casting technique where a piece of metal is melted at high temperature and poured into a mold to form the desired shape. Japanese metal casting techniques are highly recognized worldwide, and the metal casting of Takaoka City, Toyama is especially famous. Now, let's take a look at how Takaoka Copper Casting products are made. 1. Making the original model (0:18) Based on the blueprint, a prototype is created using wood, plaster, clay and resin. This prototype becomes the grand image of the final product. 2. Making the mold (0:29) A fire-resistant material is used for the original model, and a casting is made to pour the copper into. This is said to be the most important step. The mold made from casting sand is an example of exquisite craftsmanship. 3. Refining and melting (0:44) Refining refers to the process of removing impurities and increasing the purity of the metal. The refined metal is melted and liquefied at high temperatures.. The molten copper alloy reaches 1200 degrees Celsius in this process. 4. Casting (1:00) The refined molten copper is poured into the casting. 5. Removing the mold (1:23) The cooled and hardened copper is removed from the casting and the finishing process begins. 6. Polishing (1:48) The product is beautifully polished. 7. Coloring (2:05) After coloring and inlays are added, the work is complete! At 1:31 in the video, one of the Takaoka Copper Casting artisans explains “We hope that our Buddhist statues and monuments will convey what the customer had in mind, and will be loved.” The Art Pieces of Takaoka Copper Casting Gained Worldwide Popularity at the World Expo in Paris Source :YouTube screenshot A number of art pieces such as Buddhist statues and vases made using Takaoka Copper Casting were exhibited at the World Expo in Paris, and the name has come to be known around the world. These reason these artifacts are so beautifully shaped is because they were developed through producing bronze casting products adorned with carvings. In Takaoka City, Toyama, the descendants of the master craftsmen of the past have inherited the traditional crafting techniques and skills and have created many works of art. They continue to do so even today. Summary of Takaoka Copper Casting Source :YouTube screenshot The entire process of Takaoka Copper Casting has been done with the careful handiwork of artisans for more than 400 years. "We want to pass down the 400-year-old technique to the next generation," says one of the Takaoka Copper Casting artisans at 2:26 in the video. To inherit this valuable Japanese culture, Takaoka City has held workshops of Takaoka Copper Casting to train potential artisans. Miyuki-cho in Takaoka City has the Takaoka Copper Casting Museum where you can see and purchase products. Some large bronze statues are valued at millions of yen (tens of thousands of dollars). Takaoka Copper Casting products are also available at online marketplaces such as Rakuten and Amazon, and include ochoko (small sake cups), ornaments, paperweights, and more. The most popular ones are made by Takenaka Bronze Works Co.,Ltd. The company donated a 1/100 scale bronze casting model to Zuiryuji Temple (瑞龍寺, Zuiryuji), a temple designated as a National Treasure, in Takaoka City. The temple is one of the most popular tourist spots in Takaoka City renowned for its spring event of lighting up the temple, where the bones of Oda Nobunaga and his son are buried. Tourists can visit the grave of Maeda Toshinaga, who was deeply involved in the history of Takaoka Copper Castings, by way of a path called Hocchodo, lined with stone lanterns. In recent years, nine companies that are members of the Takaoka Copper Industry Cooperative Society have made original "Takaoka Wind Chimes" and sold them at the Takaoka Regional Industry Center, Takaoka Mikurumayama Museum, and shops where crafts are sold. 【Official website】Japan Traditional Crafts Aoyama Square https://kougeihin.jp/en/

What kind of spot is Minobu-san, a sightseeing spot in Minamikoma-gun, Yamanashi Prefecture? This video, titled "身延山宿坊「覚林坊」PR動画　Minobusan temple lodging Kakurinbo PR video," was released by "Shunsuke Higuchi" (樋口舜亮). It introduces Kakurinbo, a shukubo (temple lodging) on Mt. Minobu. Mt. Minobu is a mountain that straddles the towns Minobu and Hayakawa in Yamanashi Prefecture, in Japan's Kanto Region. From the sightseeing observatory on the summit of Mt. Minobu, you can observe the scenic beauty of Mt. Fuji, Suruga Bay, the Izu Peninsula, and Japan's Southern Alps. There are many temples and shrines in the area, including Kuonji Temple, the head temple of the Nichiren sect of Buddhism, and it has a long history of worship. Before getting too far in your journey into Minobu, stop by Kuonji Temple in Minobu, a place visited by many worshipers, and collect a shuin stamp to commemorate your visit to the temple. Experience Traditional Japanese Culture at Shukubo Kakurinbo Source :YouTube screenshot At Mt. Minobu, a popular tourist attraction in Yamanashi prefecture, you can experience what it's like to spend the night at a temple. The shukubo was originally temple lodging intended for monks and traveling worshipers, but more and more people have come to use them for sightseeing purposes. There are many shukubo like Kakurinbo on Mt. Minobu. At the shukubo, you can spend a relaxing time while enjoying a magnificent view of the Japanese garden from the Japanese-style rooms and immerse yourself in a completely Japanese atmosphere. Enjoy Gourmet Food and Hot Springs at Shukubo Kakurinbo Source :YouTube screenshot One of unique things of a shukubo is that you can enjoy local cuisine. In this case it's the famous Yuba cuisine shown at 1:29 in the video. The hospitality of the proprietress and priests at Kakurinbo, will surely make the memories of your trip last a lifetime. One of the attractions of Kakurinbo is the large public bath where you can relax. The wine bath, named after the famous wine of Yamanashi Prefecture, is also very relaxing. Drop By Kakurinbo for Lunch Source :YouTube screenshot Kakurinbo's Yuba cuisine can be easily enjoyed not only by guests but also by tourists looking to enjoy a delicious lunch, so definitely consider stopping by even if you don't have much time. In 2018, Kakurinbo opened the outdoor cafe terrace "Sakura Terrace," which can be seen at 2:23 in the video. On this open terrace, you can enjoy lunch or coffee while admiring the magnificent natural scenery of Mt. Minobu. Weeping cherry blossoms are lit up in spring as well, creating a fantastical atmosphere. Summary of Kakurinbo on Mt. Minobu Source :YouTube screenshot At Gyogakuin Kakurinbo, you can fully experience Japanese culture as it's introduced in the video. Enjoy a wonderful sightseeing trip while staying in temple lodging accompanied by delicious gourmet food and hot springs. 【Official Website】Gyogakuin Kakurinbo｜Temple Lodging on Mt. Minobu https://kakurinbo.jp/english 【Tripadvisor】Gyogakuin Kakurinbo https://www.tripadvisor.com/Hotel_Review-g1121179-d6923066-Reviews-Kakurinbo_Temple_Lodging_Ryokan-Minobu_cho_Minamikoma_gun_Yamanashi_Prefecture_Koshin.html

Video introduction of "Kitaguchi Hongu Fuji Sengen Shrine" in Fujiyoshida City, Yamanashi Prefecture This is an aerial video of Kitaguchi Hongu Fuji Sengen Shrine in Yamanashi prefecture, Japan, created by 「crescendo L DESIGN」. Kitaguchi Hongu Fuji Sengen Shrine is located at Yoshidaguchi, one of the starting points of the climbing trail for Mt. Fuji. In this article, we're going to explore the charms of the world cultural heritage site Kitaguchi Hongu Fuji Sengen Shrine. The video will introduce must-see places inside the shrine as well as give an aerial view of the facility. Be sure to follow along as you read the article. The History of Kitaguchi Hongu Fuji Sengen Shrine ©ShozzaTrip Modifying Mt. Fuji is a World Cultural Heritage site, and Kitaguchi Hongu Fuji Sengen Shrine, which has a history of over 1900 years, has been designated as a National Important Cultural Property. Throughout history, Mt. Fuji has erupted several times. In the past, people believed the eruptions indicated the anger of the gods. Because of this, they built many Sengen shrines around Mt. Fuji and revered them as the gods of the volcano. The deity of beauty, Princess Konohanasakuya (木花咲耶姫, Konohanasakuya hime), is the primary god of the Kitaguchi Hongu Fuji Sengen Shrine. It is said that the shrine brings success in love, relationships, and business. Kitaguchi Hongu Fuji Sengen Shrine, located at the foot of the revered Mt. Fuji, attracts attention as a power spot where you can feel the energy of nature. Kitaguchi Hongu Fuji Sengen Shrine Precinct Touring Route As you walk through the huge gate toward the shrine precinct, there is a grand Zuishin Gate (随神門, Zuishin mon) (a gate that prevents evil spirits from entering the shrine) welcoming visitors. Many stone lanterns guide you to the shrine. After purifying yourself at the Chozuya (a place for ritual cleansing of hands and mouth with water when visiting shrines), go on to Haiden (the hall of worship) where the large Tengu (Long-nosed goblin) masks are enshrined. After visiting the sacred trees Fujitarosugi (Japanese cedar) and FufuHinoki (Japanese cypress), pray at the main hall in the back. Don't forget to visit Suwa shrine (諏訪神社, Suwa jinja) as well. When you're done praying, we recommend visiting Otsuka Yama (大塚丘, Otsuka Yama), the birthplace of Kitaguchi Hongu Fuji Sengen Shrine, and also where Yamato Takeru no Mikoto (日本武尊, Yamatotakerunomikoto) and Asama no Okami (浅野大神, AsamanoOkami) are enshrined. The view from the huge main gate through the main hall is introduced in the video at 0:47. Sightseeing at Kitaguchi Hongu Fuji Sengen Shrine Photo：Kitaguchi Hongu Fuji Sengen Shrine There are two types of seals visitors to Kitaguchi Hongu Fuji Sengen Shrine can receive. We recommend getting both! The fortunes that come with the charms and Netsuke (miniature sculptures) you can get at the shrine are also popular. The Yoshida Fire Festival is held at the shrine annually on the 26th and 27th in August. This festival is known as one of the "three most unique festivals in Japan." This fantastical fire festival is a must-see. Recap of Kitaguchi Honfu Fuji Sengen Shrine Mt. Fuji has long been revered as the god of volcanos in Japan. In the Edo period (1603-1868), numerous artists took up Mt. Fuji in their Ukiyo-e paintings, showing that Mt. Fuji has long been an object of worship. When you have a chance to take a trip to Mt. Fuji, it's worth visiting Kitaguchi Hongu Fuji Sengen Shrine, known as a sacred historical spot where the light filters through the trees beautifully. Yoshida Udon is a famous local food in Yoshida City, Fuji, Yamanashi, where Kitaguchi Hongu Fuji Sengen Shrine is located. Be sure to try this delicious treat on your return from the shrine. Watching the video showing the powerful Kitaguchi Hongu Fuji Sengen Shrine will give you the great power of Mt. Fuji! ◆Kitaguchi Hongu Fuji Sengen Shrine◆ 【Address】5558 Kamiyoshida Fujiyoshida-shi Yamanashi-ken 403-0005, JAPAN 【Access】20 minutes on foot or by bus from Fujikyukousen Fujiyama Station, or 20 minutes on foot from Fujikyu Highland by bus (Fujikko-go) 【Hours】Reception Hours : 9:00 to 16:30 【Closures】Open everyday 【Parking】Available 【Phone Number】0555-22-0221 【Official Website】KitaguchiHongu Fuji Sengen Shrine https://sengenjinja.jp/english/index.html

Cherry Blossoms at Takada Castle Site Park: Video Introduction This video, titled "Cherry Blossoms at Takada Castle Site Park｜One of the Top 3 Nighttime Cherry Blossoms Spots in Japan｜Breathtaking Cherry Blossom Blizzards and Nighttime Cherry Blossom Viewing" (【日本三大夜桜 高田城址公園の桜 圧巻の桜吹雪と夜桜 - Takada Castle Cherry Blossoms 2022 in full bloom - (BMPCC6K)), was uploaded by "AQUA Geo Graphic." Takada Castle Site Park is located in Joetsu, Niigata, in Japan's Koshin'etsu Region. This video was taken on April 12th, 2022, when the cherry blossoms were blooming beautifully. The flowers had fully bloomed just two days before the shooting! The contrast between the blue sky and pink and white flowers is simply magical. The cherry blossom blizzard is a view that will definitely catch your eye! The illuminated cherry blossoms here are so beautiful that it they have been chosen as one of the Top 3 Nighttime Cherry Blossom Spots in Japan. Sit back, relax, and enjoy the lovely cherry blossoms of Takada Castle Site Park! What Is Takada Castle Site Park Like? Photo：Takada Castle Site Park, Joetsu, Niigata Takada Castle was built in 1614 by Matsudaira Tadateru, the sixth son of Tokugawa Ieyasu. The castle was built with a moat that utilized the river surrounding it. The castle was built in the Edo Period over the span of four months by order of the shogunate. In 1871, the castle was abandoned and converted into an army garrison. In 1908, the earthen mounds of the Ninomaru and Sanomaru (2nd and 3rd baileys) were removed and part of the moat was filled in. The moat and the restored three-story turret of Takada Castle are reminders of the castle's former glory. Today, the ruins of Takada Castle are maintained as Takada Castle Site Park, and the entire area is designated as a historic site by Niigata Prefecture. Takada Castle Site Park has many facilities, including the Takada Library, a history museum, athletic fields, and even a baseball field. Many citizens visit here because they can use both cultural and sports facilities. With a grass plaza and a promenade around the outer moat, visitors who take a stroll can enjoy the scenery of Japan's four seasons here. Festivals, Cherry Blossom Illuminations, and More! Everything to See at the Takada Castle Site Park Cherry Blossom Viewing Party Photo：Takada Castle Site Park illuminated, Joetsu, Niigata The Takada Castle Site Park Cherry Blossom Viewing Party is one of the biggest events of spring in Joetsu, Niigata. During the festival, the cherry blossoms are at their peak! Trees will be lit up from dusk till 9:00 P.M. In the year 1090 AD, approximately 2,200 cherry trees were planted here by local military personnel. In 1917, citizens were allowed to visit the area for leisure, and in 1926, the event was advertised nationwide and the first cherry blossom viewing party was held. Today, around 4,000 cherry trees bloom around Takada Castle Site Park. Most of them are Someiyoshino cherries, and from the beginning of the video, you can see a beautiful cherry blossom blizzard like a scene from a movie. The reflection of the blue skies and snow-covered Mt. Myoko on the surface of the moat is truly incredible. [Video] 0:59 - Cherry Blossoms and a Snow-covered Mt. Myoko As we mentioned, Takada Castle Site Park is so famous for its nighttime cherry blossoms that it was chosen as one of the Top 3 Nighttime Cherry Blossom Spots in Japan. The three-story turret of Takada Castle is illuminated, and the illuminated cherry blossoms reflected on the dark surface of the moat creates a mystical scene. [Video] 3:00 - The Illuminated Turret and Cherry Blossoms at Takada Castle If you visit Sakura Road, you can pass through a tunnel of cherry blossoms. Sakura Road is illuminated at night, allowing visitors to take impressive photos, both during the day, and at night. When do Cherry Blossoms Bloom at Takada Castle Site Park? Photo：The Takada Castle Site Park Cherry Blossom Viewing Party, Joetsu, Niigata The cherry blossoms are usually at their best at the beginning of April each year. On April 10, 2022, two days before the video was filmed, the cherry blossoms in Takada Castle Ruins Park were in full bloom, and a beautiful cherry blossom blizzard was observed during the shooting.However, in 2023, cherry blossoms were in full bloom at the end of March, which is earlier than usual. [Video] 0:00 - A Cherry Blossom Blizzard and the Three-story Turret of Takada Castle The Takada Castle Ruins Park Kanzakura-kai, which will be held in accordance with the cherry blossom season, is scheduled from March 29th to April 14th, 2024.The contents of the event during the period will be announced as soon as it is decided, so please check the website of the Joetsu Tourist Convention Association before going out. Summer at Takada Castle Site Park – Beautiful Lotuses In summer, the outer moat of Takada Castle Site Park will be filled with lotuses. At the beginning of the Meiji Period (1868-1912 AD), people grew lotus roots to rebuilt the economy of the Takada Domain. This eventually led to the lovely views of lotuses we see today. The outer moat of Takada Castle was built using the nearby Sekikawa River (関川, Sekikawa). Although the eastern side has been filled in, it is still as large as approximately four Tokyo Domes. Every year, from the end of July to the middle of August, green leaves fill all the surface of this moat, while pink flowers bloom atop them. The scale and beauty of the blooms is said to be the best in the East. Lotus flowers tend to open at dawn or early morning and close around noon. To see the lotus flowers in full bloom, we recommend visiting early in the morning. A Brief Introduction to Niigata, Japan Niigata Prefecture is the fifth largest prefecture in Japan and is divided into three regions: Joetsu, Chuetsu, and Kaetsu (Upper, Middle, and Lower Niigata). With a population of nearly 2.2 million, it's the 15th most populated city in Japan. Niigata is known for its beautiful rice fields which yield delicious rice and make for great sake. Situated along the coast of the Sea of Japan, it also has delicious seafood. Additionally, Niigata is one of the snowiest regions of Japan, which make it a great place to enjoy skiing and snowboarding, but it's also known for its summer festivals, such as the Niigata Festival, which features dancing, parades, portable shrines, fireworks, and more. Summary of Takada Castle Site Park's Cherry Blossoms Photo：Cherry blossoms illuminated in Takada Castle Site Park, Joetsu, Niigata A collaboration of approximately 4,000 cherry trees, historical sites, stunning views of cherry blossoms and Mt. Myoko, and a beautiful tunnel of cherry blossoms at night. The cherry blossoms at Takada Castle Site Park are nothing short of spectacular. Most of the cherry trees at Takada Castle Site Park are Someiyoshino cherries, but the large weeping cherry tree at the end of Sakura Road is a must-see. During the Takada Castle Site Park Cherry Blossom Viewing Party, many stalls and vendors are set up around the area and the park can become quite crowded. This is a major event at a famous sightseeing spot, but there are some restrictions in place to prevent the spread of infectious disease. Be sure to research them before you go. ◆Takada Castle Site Park◆ [Address] 44-1, Motoshiro-cho, Joetsu-shi, Niigata [Access] Train: Approximately 15 minutes on foot from Takada Station on the Echigo Tokimeki Railway's Myoko Haneuma Line Bus: Approximately 1 minute on foot from Takada Joshi Koen Iriguchi (高田城址公園入口) by Kubikino Bus [Closures] None [Admission Fee] Free [Parking] Available (Prices vary by parking lot) 【Official Website】Takada Castle Site Park 【TripAdvisor】Takada Castle Site Park

Video introduction of Harunire Terrace "Karuizawa Umbrella Sky" in Kitasaku-gun, Nagano Prefecture, Japan. This video, titled "Hoshino area of Karuizawa | Karuizawa Umbrella Sky 2019"(軽井沢星野エリア｜軽井沢アンブレラスカイ2019), was uploaded by "Hoshino Resorts." This video shows the 2019 Karuizawa Umbrella Sky event, held every year during Japan's rainy season at Harunire Terrace in the Hoshino area of Karuizawa. The view of colorful umbrellas floating above the wooden deck connecting the different buildings in the area makes it a popular spot for Japanese Instagrammers. From June to early July, you can see many photos of the event on Instagram. This article provides easy-to-understand information about popular events. Be sure to check out the photogenic event in the video. What is Karuizawa Umbrella Sky? Photo：Karuizawa Umbrella Sky, Harunire Terrace Karuizawa Umbrella Sky is an event held in the Hoshino area of Karuizawa, operated by Hoshino Resorts in Karuizawa, Nagano, in Japan's Koshin'etsu region. 2023 will mark the 8th year the event is held. Here, we'll take a look at some things to see during the event. ●Umbrella Arcade The main attraction of the event is the "Umbrella Arcade" which features more than 100 colorful umbrellas floating above the deck of Harunire Terrace. Soap bubbles can be seen floating through the air three times a day, creating an exciting atmosphere for people of all ages. "Rainy Art," a pattern that appears on the wooden deck only on rainy days, and the reflection of umbrellas on the wet wooden deck are two more must-see attractions. [Video] 0:38 - Umbrellas Reflected on the Rainy Wooden Deck ●Bubbles and Umbrella Making Workshops (Held on Weekends) At the plaza next to "Hoshino Onsen Tombo no Yu" (Hoshino Onsen), bubble blowing workshops and umbrella making workshops are held for children to have fun with their parents. ●Exclusive Seasonal Beverages to Go With Japan's Rainy Season Drinks inspired by the colorful Karuizawa Umbrella Sky are also sold during the event. The Rainbow-colored Lemonade, a limited-quantity drink from Café Hungry Spot, is filled with colorful jelly and is the perfect drink for the event. Consider purchasing one and snapping some photos of the colorful drink with the lush greenery in the surrounding area. Karuizawa Umbrella Sky 2023: Event Schedule & Hours The 2023 Karuizawa Umbrella Sky event schedule is as follows: Event Period: June 2 - July 9 Hours: 8:00 pm - 10:00 pm Illumination Hours: 6:00 pm - 10:00 pm Bubbles: 10:00 am, 4:00 pm, 8:00 pm The event will be held at Harunire Terrace, a facility with a variety of restaurants and lifestyle stores in the Hoshino area of Karuizawa. The event is a great way to beat the blues brought on by Japan's rainy season, so definitely consider checking it out. Things to Do at Harunire Terrace at Karuizawa Hoshino Resorts Photo：Karuizawa Umbrella Sky at night Harunire Terrace was named after the more than 100 Harunire (Japanese elm) trees that used to grow in the area. There are restaurants, cafes, sweets, and lifestyle & relaxation stores, all connected via a wooden deck. You can see a video of Harunire Terrace after the sun sets in the video. [Video] 0:47 - Harunire Terrace at Night You can enjoy shopping or even just window shopping at the various shops in the area, all the while enjoying Karuizawa Umbrella Sky, or just relax and enjoy a meal or tea time at a café. Pets are welcome on the terrace as well, so it's not uncommon to see people with their dogs. Before visiting Harunire Terrace, we recommend checking to see if there are any events being held in the area when you're planning on visiting. Harunire Terrace hosts the Umbrella Sky during the rainy season in Japan (early June to mid-July), illuminations around Christmas, and Halloween-related events in autumn. In addition, there are many trendy shops and specialty stores to browse, so you might consider making a list of the shops you want to take a look at before visiting if you have limited time. Restaurants, Cafes, and Souvenir Shops at Harunire Terrace Photo：Chairs at Harunire Terrace, Karuizawa Harunire Terrace features 16 restaurants, cafes, and other eateries, as well as furniture and even souvenir shops. Sawamura is a bakery/restaurant that is popular on Japanese social media. They offer takeout, but many people sit in for lunch. The pasta lunch comes with delicious bread, and the juicy hamburgers are to die for! After grabbing some lunch, you can relax on the terrace and enjoy a delicious cup of coffee from Maruyama Coffee. There's also a bookstore attached to the restaurant, so you can relax while reading. Kawakamian is known for its delicious soba noodles as well as shrimp tempura, etc. If you visit the restaurant in the evening, consider indulging in some delicious sake with various dishes, such as grilled duck and their tasty pork tatsuta-age (a marinated, fried pork dish). MORIASOBI is a shop that sells furniture and sundries, but it also serves meals and is open for tea time. We recommend trying the hot chocolate here, a popular drink on Japanese Instagram, which is made with foamed milk and melted chocolate. Izumiya (和泉屋) is a great shop for souvenirs and is popular for its delicious Japanese- and Western-style confections. The cheesecake, called "Hanjuku Cake," has an irresistible soufflé-like texture. The shop also offers a lineup of cute products for sale. Other Things to Do in Karuizawa Here are a few places to check out in the Karuizawa area: Karuizawa Shiraito Falls From Nakakaruizawa Station, the closest station to Harunire Terrace, you can take a train to Karuizawa Station. From there, there are regularly schedules buses that will take you to the Shiraito no Taki Bus Stop (白糸の滝). It's an approximately 25-minute bus ride to the base of the trail, and then a 5-10-minute hike to the waterfall itself. Hours: Open 24 hours. ※Shops at the base of the trail: 9:00 am - 4:00 pm (Some shops may be closed in the case of inclement weather) Admission Fee: Free Karuizawa Prince Shopping Plaza An outlet mall at Karuizawa Station with a number of shops, cafes, and restaurants selling everything from brand-name goods like Prada to snowboarding gear, such as Burton. The plaza features a large pond at its center making it feel like a Japanese strolling pond garden. Hours: 10:00 am - 7:00 pm Admission Fee: 720 yen (bus fee) Tombo no Yu Located just up the road from Harunire Terrace, Tombo no Yu (Tonbo no Yu) is a hot spring that opened in 1915. It's a great place to relax after a long day of sightseeing. Be aware that there can be long lines to enter during holidays, such as Golden Week. Hours: 10:00 am - 10:00 pm Admission Fee: Adults: 1,350 yen, Children (Ages 3 - Elementary school students): 800 yen Additionally, if you're looking to get some exercise and enjoy the weather on a sunny day, you can rent a bike from a bike rental shop and ride around the Karuizawa area exploring the scenery, visiting shops, etc. The bike rental shops in the area have guidebooks with biking routes of various lengths to help you navigate the area according to your schedule as well. Keep in mind that the bikes can be fully rented out during holiday seasons, so it's a good idea to make a reservation in advance. A Brief Introduction to Karuizawa Karuizawa, located in the mountains of south-eastern Nagano, inside Joshin'etsu Kogen National Park, sits at an elevation of 850 to 1,000 meters above sea level and is a popular summer resort in Japan. Karuizawa has long been popular as a vacation home for many famous and wealthy people because of its easy accessibility (approximately 1 hour from central Tokyo). Summary of Karuizawa Harunire Terrace, Umbrella Sky The Hoshino area of Karuizawa also offers accommodations and hot springs, so you can enjoy the upscale Karuizawa lifestyle in a relaxing setting surrounded by nature. Japan's rainy season has a tendency to make people feel gloomy, but Karuizawa's Harunire Terrace will welcome you with colorful umbrellas, lush greenery, and flowers. If you're feeling down this rainy season, consider visiting Harunire Terrace to cheer yourself up. You're sure to feel refreshed! [Official website] Harunire Terrace - The Hoshino Area of Karuizawa [TripAdvisor] Harunire Terrace

Video introduction of "Heisenji Hakusan Shrine" in Katsuyama City, Fukui Prefecture This video, titled "【Fukui/Famous Tourist Attractions】Heisenji Hakusan Shrine - A Temple Covered in Moss - Heisenji Hakusan Shrine in FUKUI, JAPAN -" (【福井／観光名所】平泉寺白山神社／青苔が広がる苔の宮 - Heisenji Hakusan Jinja in FUKUI, JAPAN -), was uploaded by "channel WASABI." This video shows you the charms and history of Heisenji Hakusan Shrine with a video tour through its moss-covered cobblestone paths. Please enjoy the 7-minute video showing the solemn atmosphere of Heisenji Hakusan Shrine. Heisenji Hakusan Shrine: The History of the Shrine & the Deities Worshipped There Photo：Heisenji Hakusan Shrine, Katsuyama, Fukui Heisenji Hakusan Shrine is located in Katsuyama, Fukui, in Japan's Koshinetsu region. Its history dates back to 717 AD, during the Nara Period (710-794 AD). The shrine is the predecessor of Heisenji Temple and was founded by the monk Taicho Taishi. Later, it became a branch temple of Enryakuji Temple on Mt. Hieizan, and as the base of mountain worship in the Echizen Province, it boasted such prosperity that it had 48 shrines, 36 halls, and 6,000 monasteries. However, it was burned down during a civil rebellion in the Sengoku Period (1467-1615 AD). Moreover, Heisenji was banned during the Meiji Period as part of an order to separate Shintoism and Buddhism. Later, Hakusan Shrine was built on the site and became the current "Heisenji Hakusan Shrine." Located within the specially designated Hakusan National Park area, the site is a well-known tourist attraction in Fukui Prefecture, and is designated as a National Historic Site under "Former Precincts of Hakusan Heisenji Temple." Heisenji Hakusan Shrine is dedicated to the oldest goddess of well-being for couples, Izanami no Mikoto. In Japanese mythology, she is the creator of the Japanese continent and other gods in Japan and is considered the greatest god among them. It is believed that she blesses the well-being of couples, families, and future generations. In this vast area, many ruins have been discovered, though only a few have been studied. As researchers dig deeper, they discover more and more artifacts, such as cobbles and items from the schools of monks from medieval Japan. It's believed that there are still many more hidden treasures beneath the ground. The Best Seasons to Visit to See the Beautiful Mossy Temple Photo：Heisenji Hakusan Shrine, Katsuyama, Fukui Heisenji Hakusan Shrine is famous as a moss temple. From the cedar grove, to the boundary stones along the approach to the shrine, to the stone pavement leading to the hall of worship, the spacious shrine grounds are covered in beautiful green moss. The best time to view the approximately 100 varieties of moss is during Japan's rainy season from June to July. During this season, when the mosses are even more beautiful, it can feel as if you've wandered into another world. Spring brings fresh greenery, while in early summer the heavenly water-laden mosses shine even brighter. Autumn brings colorful foliage, and winter brings snowy landscapes. The contrast of the four seasons at Heisenji Hakusan Shrine is so incredible that it's hard to believe such beauty was created by nature. Heisenji Hakusan Shrine is the northern center of worship for Mt. Hakusan and is a popular power spot. If someone is available at the shrine office, have a goshuin stamp put directly into your stamp book if you're collecting them. Beautiful Echizen washi (Japanese paper) is used for the goshuin stamps. Attractions at Heisenji Hakusan Shrine Photo：Heisenji Hakusan Shrine, Katsuyama, Fukui There is much more to see at Heisenji Hakusan Shrine than just moss, and while the time required for a visit varies depending on how you choose to tour the grounds, it generally takes between 30 minutes and 2 hours. You can request a guide up to 7 days in advance, so you can plan your visit in accordance with your travel itinerary. Here are some of the highlights of the shrine. The Cobblestone Paths Leading to the Garden The cobblestone paths at Heisenji Hakusan Shrine are included in the list of Top 100 Roads in Japan. It's said that about 1,000 years ago, ascetic monks carried stones from the Kuzuryu River to make them. [Video] 0:30 - The Cobblestone Path Leading to the First Torii Gate The Second Torii Gate The second torii gate of Heisenji Hakusan Shrine has quietly watched years of history unfold before its eyes, with visitors such as Minamoto no Yoshinaka praying for victory in battle, or Minamoto no Yoshitsune and Benkei passing through the gates. The second torii gate also has an unusual shape with a roof over it. Mitarashi Pond This spring was discovered by the great Buddhist monk Taicho Daishi on his way to Mt. Hakusan. Legend says that a goddess appeared before him and instructed him to ascend to Mt Hakusan. [Video] 1:48 - Mitarashi Pond Surrounded by Dense Greenery The Giant Cedar of Wakamiya Hachiman Near Wakamiya Hachiman is a massive, majestic 450-year-old cedar tree. It is one of the seven cedars that survived the burning of Heisenji Hakusan Shrine during the Sengoku Period. The Main Shrine Pavilion of Heisenji Hakusan Shrine In 1795 AD during the Edo Period (1603-1868), Shigetomi Matsudaira, the samurai in charge of the Echizen province (today known as northern Fukui Prefecture), rebuilt the main pavilion of Heisenji Hakusan Shrine. The door of this shrine opens only once every 33 years, and the next time the door is scheduled to open is in 2025. On the door, there are spectacular sculptures of mythical creatures, including Kirin and Dragons. The best way to get to Heisenji Hakusan Shrine is by car. It has a parking lot that can accommodate 30 standard vehicles and it costs 300 yen to park, in order to fund maintenance of the historical landmark. Things to Do Near Heisenji Hakusan Shrine Heisenji Hakusan Shrine is located a short distance from the city of Katsuyama, where there are a number of things to see and do. Below we'll introduce a few of them. Echizen Daibutsu A 17-meter-tall Buddha statue. Taller than the Great Buddha of Nara at Todaiji Temple, it features 2 smaller Buddhist statues on each side of it, and Seidaiji Temple, where the Echizen Daibutsu is located, houses 1,281 Buddha statues. The temple is also home to a 5-story pagoda. Hours: 8:00 am - 5:00 pm (9:00 am - 4:00 pm during winter) Admission Fee: Adults: 500 yen, Elementary, middle, and high school students: 300 yen. Discounts are available for groups of 15 or more. Katsuyama Castle Museum Katsuyama Castle was built during the Warring States Period (1467-1615 AD) in present-day Katsuyama, Fukui. During the Edo period (1603-1867), it was used as the headquarters of the Katsuyama Clan. The castle museum features swords, guns, armor, etc., with hundreds of years of history to explore. Hours: 9:30 am - 4:30 pm (Admission until 4:00 pm). Closed on Wednesdays Admission Fee: Adults: 700 yen, Children (Elementary, middle, and high school students): 280 yen. Discounts available for groups of 20 or more. Yume Ole Katsuyama Textile Factory Memorial Hall Once a textile factory, the building was repurposed into a museum and now acts as a place where visitors can learn about spinning and weaving machines and techniques used in the past. There are also hands-on experiences available where visitors can make their own coasters, etc. from silkworm cocoons. Hours: 9 :00 am - 5:00 pm. Closed on Wednesdays (If Wednesday is a holiday, closed the following day). Admission Fee: General admission: Free. Hand weaving coaster experience: 600 yen. Hand-woven hemp yarn coaster experience: 800 yen. Mayu dama (cocoon ball) craft experience: 600 yen. High loom weaving experience: 1,500 yen Fukui Prefectural Dinosaur Museum As one of the leading dinosaur museums in the world, the Fukui Prefectural Dinosaur Museum is filled with a variety of dinosaur skeletons and fossils of plants and animals, and also features animatronic robots showing how the dinosaurs would have moved. Hours: 9:00 am - 5:00 pm (Admission until 4:30 pm) Admission Fee: Adults: 730 yen, High school and college students: 420 yen, Elementary school and middle school students: 260 yen, Young children and seniors: Free. Discounts are available for groups of 30 or more. Summary of Heisenji Hakusan Shrine The dense trees, carpets of moss, and cobblestone approaches steeped in history make Heisenji Hakusan Shrine a one-of-a-kind tourist attraction. Enjoy a trip to the mystical shrine and experience the slow flow of time. There are many nearby tourist attractions in the surrounding area to check out as well. Stay at a hotel and enjoy the charms of Fukui to your heart's content! 【TripAdvisor】Heisenji Hakusan Shrine

Video introduction of spectacular views of the gassho-zukuri villages of Shirakawa-go in Gifu Prefecture and Gokayama in Toyama Prefecture. This promotional video, produced by “Discover Nippon,” shows the snowy landscapes of Shirakawa-go (Gifu Prefecture) and Gokayama (Toyama Prefecture). Shirakawa-go and Gokayama are two popular tourist destinations in Japan known for their Gassho-zukuri farmhouses with a unique sloped roof supported by A-frame crossbeams and thatched with the straw of crops. The beauty of these farmhouses, with snow capped, thatched roofs, can be seen in the video. This article will supplement the video by giving information about must-visit places in Shirakawa-go and Gokayama, where you can enjoy ancient Japanese landscapes. Sightseeing Locations at Shirakawa-go During the Winter ©Koichi_Hayakawa Modifying Declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1995, Shirakawa-go is a famous place in northern Gifu Prefecture (known as the Hida Region), home to the thatched-roof Gassho-zukuri farmhouses. The structure of the steeply sloped roofs can withstand the heavy winter snowfall. Wada-ke house, a well preserved house located in Ogimachi (the largest village in Shirakawa-go), is designated as an Important Cultural Property of Japan and is now open to the public as a museum. There are many other recommended locations, hidden gems, and “instagrammable” places, such as Shiroyama Viewpoint, Ogimachi Castle Observation Deck, Tohyama-ke House Museum and Myo-zenji Temple and House. Although Shirakawa-go has charms in every season, it's best seen covered in snow. The illumination during winter makes the village snowscape even more amazing. This can be seen at 3:33 in the video. The pure white landscape, lit up beautifully, is a sight to behold even on video. Recommended Tourist Locations in Gokayama Photo：World Heritage Site Gokayama Ainokura Village Gokayama is a part of Nanto City in Toyama, an area consisting of nostalgic villages featuring Gassho-zukuri farmhouses. Ainokura village and Suganuma village are the main attractions of Gokayama, and are both registered as UNESCO World Heritage Sites together with Shirakawa-go. The Iwase-ke House and Murakami-ke House are two buildings of high cultural value, with both being designated Important Cultural Properties of Japan. The best time to visit Gokayama is either in winter, when the village is covered in snow, or during the Ainokura Gokayama Music Festival in June. If you like Tofu, be sure to try the Gokayama Tofu. It's a local specialty made using pure mountain water and locally grown soybeans. Access to Shirakawa-Go and Gokayama Many people visit Shirakawa-go and Gokayama by bus tour or car, as there are no railway lines running through the area. If you're planning on staying overnight, the hotels around Hirase Onsen in Shirakawa-go or Gokasansou in Gokayama are the best options. Some of the Gassho-zukuri farmhouses now function as an inn. It's a great way to experience a traditional Japanese home that has tatami mat floors and an “Irori” (Sunken Hearth), used for both cooking and heating. The video shows the inside of a Gassho-zukuri farmhouse from 6:53. Staying in a traditional Japanese home guarantees a unique experience. Summary of Shirakawa-go and Gokayama ©Koichi_Hayakawa Modifying Shirakawa Village in Gifu Prefecture and Nanto City in Toyama Prefecture have released live informational cameras that allow you to check out Shirakawa-go and Gokayama at all times. Consider checking them out before you head out for sightseeing. Enjoy seeing the nostalgic Japanese villages snow capped by snow. It's a scene you won't come across often. Shirakawa-go Tourist Office http://ml.shirakawa-go.org/en/