A Look at Ueda Castle 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

Nagoya Castle - A Popular Tourist Destination in Aichi Prefecture This video, titled "Nagoya Castle Main Tower Keep Promotional Video," was released by "2010Network." Nagoya Castle is a huge castle built in Aichi District (愛知郡), Owari (尾張国), formerly known as "Owari no Kuni," during the Warring States Period (1467-1615 AD). There are many castles in Japan, but the magnificent Nagoya Castle is by far one of the most popular among tourists. Nagoya Castle is a famous landmark housing many national treasures, including the superb castle tower. In 2018, the number of visitors to the castle exceeded 2.2 million. The History of Nagoya Castle Since the Warring States Period Photo：Nagoya Castle, Aichi Prefecture Nagoya Castle was built by Tokugawa Ieyasu, who emerged victorious from the decisive Battle of Sekigahara, and was built in nearby the ruins of Nagoya Castle (那古野城, Nagoya-Jo), said to be the birthplace of Oda Nobunaga. Tension was increasing with the forces of Toyotomi Hideyoshi during this period, and Ieyasu built Nagoya Castle as a key military location. Nagoya Castle served as the residence of the lords of the Owari domain for generations during the Edo period (1603-1868 A.D.) after Yoshinao Tokugawa, the founder of the Owari Tokugawa family. It became the Nagoya Detached Imperial Palace for the use of the imperial family after the Meiji period (1868-1912 A.D.). In the Showa period (1926-1989 A.D.), it was designated as Japan's first National Treasure as a castle building. Since then, it has continued to be open to the public as a highly popular tourist attraction. The Must-See Features of Nagoya Castle Photo：Nagoya Castle, Aichi Prefecture Nagoya Castle is also known as "Kinshachi Castle" (金 "kin" meaning gold) after the golden Shachihoko that decorate the castle tower, which has become a symbol of Nagoya. Besides the main tower keep, the magnificent honmaru (inner citadel) and Shoin Hall are must-see features. The outstanding Stone Walls of Nagoya Castle were built via stonewall construction in various areas, including the Mikawa Bay (三河湾, Mikawa-Wan) area. Kiyomasa Kato played an active role in the construction of the stone walls, and the huge stone said to be the largest stonewall in Nagoya Castle is called "Kiyomasa Stone." Enshu Kobori and Masakiyo Nakai were in charge of the construction of the castle tower. This is detailed at 1:10 in the video. When you visit the Sarumenbogaku Tea House, Yuin Tea House, and shops, you may also want to visit the Oribe-Do, which was built to honor Oribe Furuta. Nagoya Castle's Castle Tower Under Reconstruction! Photo：Nagoya Castle, Aichi Prefecture Since May 2018, the demolition and renovation of Nagoya Castle's castle tower has been carried out as the "War Damaged Wood Restoration Project" (戦災木造復元プロジェクト). The restoration of the wooden castle tower is scheduled to last until December 2022. Everyone is looking forward to seeing the restored castle tower once the restoration is finished. Summary of the Historical Nagoya Castle Photo：Nagoya Castle, Aichi Prefecture As shown in the video, Nagoya Castle is a building of great historical value built during Japan's Warring States Period. The castle is large, but you can enjoy exploring it as there are elevators available and many historical materials are on display. ◆Nagoya Castle Facility Information◆ 【Address】1-1 Honmaru, Naka Ward, Nagoya City, Aichi 460-0031 【Access】Train: 5-minute walk from the "Shiyakusho (City Hall)" Station of the Meijo Line. Bus: 1-minute walk from the "Nagoyajo Seimon-Mae" stop 【Admission fee】500 Yen for adults, Free for junior high school students and younger 【Parking】Payed Parking Lot available 【Official Website】Nagoya Castle Official Website https://www.nagoyajo.city.nagoya.jp/en/ 【Tripadvisor】Nagoya Castle https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g14127381-d320128-Reviews-Nagoya_Castle-Naka_Nagoya_Aichi_Prefecture_Tokai_Chubu.html

Makomanai Takino Cemetery’s "Hill of the Buddha" in Sapporo, Hokkaido "Introduction to the Hill of the Buddha" (頭大仏の紹介), is a video about the Hill of the Buddha, a symbol of Makomanai Takino Cemetery where you can see the head of the Great Buddha. At Makomanai Takino Cemetery, you can also see a vast landscape of lavender hills with more than 15 thousand lavenders. This dramatic Hill of the Buddha, standing at the top of a dome-shaped slope, was designed by Ando Tadao, a famous architect, in 2016 to celebrate the 30th anniversary of Makomanai Takino Cemetery. It is made up of 57 parts, which were selected and processed from 4,000 tons of unpolished stones. It is 13.5 meters high and weighs 1,500 tons. Initially, it was called “Mitama Kuyo Daibutsu.” You can see the Great Buddha in its entirety from 0:08 in the video. The construction of the Hill of the Buddha began in October 2013 and finished in 2016. As you can see from 0:56 in the video, the hardest part of this project was growing the 15 thousand lavenders. With the advice of lavender farmers and the help of volunteers, they succeeded in growing the lavenders from seed. It took about three years to build the Hill of the Buddha, and the construction process can be seen from 1:31 in the video. Makomanai Takino Cemetery's Hill of the Buddha Source :YouTube screenshot The Hill of the Buddha at Makomanai Takino Cemetery, Sapporo, Hokkaido, features the Great Buddha poking his head out from the lavender hill. According to the architect Ando Tadao, the purpose of this is to emphasize the gratitude of the Great Buddha as “that which you cannot see stimulates the imagination.” As you can see from 4:07 in the video, there is an approach with lavenders when entering Makomanai Takino Cemetery. There is also a water garden, which is a bypass of the pathway behind the approach. The water is a boundary to purify mind and to awaken the extraordinary. After going through the water garden, there is a tunnel that goes through the hill, which is shown at 4:25 in the video. The tunnel represents the womb and is lined with concrete folds. You can see the Great Buddha as you pass through the tunnel, and the panoramic view of the Buddha, which you can see along the 135-meter walk, is even more impressive. The light from the sky lights up the Buddha and surrounds you with artistic scenery. Learn About the Construction Process at the Gallery and Café Source :YouTube screenshot Next to the water-basin, there is a gallery where you can see the construction process of the Hill of the Buddha. Here, you can find out what the famous architect Ando Tadao had in mind when he designed the project. Across the gallery, lays the “Rotunda Café and Store.” You can enjoy snacks and tea and buy original merchandise and souvenirs here. It was opened in 2018 as a rest station, due to the increase of foreign tourists. Also, there are replicas of Easter Island’s Moai statues, which carry the meaning of “living into the future,” as well as a replica of Stonehenge. Information About Makomanai Takino Cemetery Photo：The Great Buddha Access to Makomanai Takino Cemetery in Sapporo City, Hokkaido is 20-30 minutes from Makomanai Station by bus from the Namboku Subway Line. Times may vary by season, so check out the homepage for more details. If you are driving, you can use the free parking areas in the south and north. The lots have a capacity of 245 cars, so be sure to check the map if you're planning on driving. There is a 300 yen (~$3 USD) "lavender maintenance fee" you must pay if you want to see the Hill of the Buddha. It is open from 7 am to 7 pm during summer, and 7 am to 6 pm during winter. Enjoy Art at Sapporo's Newest Spiritual Site! Source :YouTube screenshot Are you interested in visiting the Hill of the Buddha? The Hill of the Buddha is a new sightseeing spot in Sapporo, Hokkaido, not only for its powerful atmosphere, but also for its refreshing and beautiful scenery. If you're thinking about visiting Hokkaido, be sure to stop by! ◆Information◆ 【Address】2-3 Takino, Minami, Sapporo, Hokkaido 005-0862 【Access】20 to 30 minutes by bus from Metro Namboku Line, Makomanai Station 【Admission Fee】~300 yen lavender maintenance fee 【Hours】 7 am to 7 pm during summer. 7 am to 6 pm during winter 【Parking】Available 【Phone number】 011-592-1223 【Official Website】Makomanai Takino Cemetery https://www.takinoreien.com/ 【Tripadvisor】Makomanai Takino Cemetery https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g298560-d12597229-Reviews-Makomanai_Takino_Cemetery-Sapporo_Hokkaido.html

Risshaku-ji Temple in Yamagata Prefecture This video, titled "Risshaku-ji Temple Temple 4K - Risshaku-ji in Yamagata" (宝珠山立石寺 4K - Risshaku-ji in Yamagata), was uploaded by "channel WASABI." It explores Risshaku-ji Temple, a National Site of Scenic Beauty in Yamagata Prefecture, Tohoku, Japan. Risshaku-ji Temple in Yamagata City, Yamagata Prefecture is an ancient temple opened by a monk in 860 A.D. It is one of the most famous temples in Japan's Tohoku region. It is most famous as the temple that Matsuo Basho made a haiku poem about, in his poetry book "Oku no Hosomichi." The poem goes like this- Deep silence the shrill of cicadas seeps into the rocks The temple suffered damage from fire several times between the Kamakura Period (1185～1333) and Muromachi Period (1336～1573). In the Edo Period (1603～1868), the temple was given a territory of 1,420 koku by the government and rebuilt the temple buildings. The temple currently owns a land of 330,000 tsubo where around 30 various sized buildings are built. It is one of the most famous tourist attractions in Yamagata Prefecture. Built on top of the tall steep stone cliff, Risshaku-ji Temple lays within the beautiful natural landscape of Zao Quasi-National Park. Here you can enjoy the beautiful seasonal views and elegance of nature. Yamagata Prefecture proudly boasts the temple as a National Site of Scenic Beauty in Japan. The video captures the beautiful Risshaku-ji Temple in stunning 4K quality. The sound of the piano adds to the beauty of Risshaku-ji Temple. The "Four Temple Pilgrimage" of Yamagata Prefecture Photo：Spring scenery at Risshaku-ji Temple Risshaku-ji Temple is spiritually associated with Hiraizumi Chuson Temple (平泉中尊寺 Hiraizumi Chusonji), Moutsu Temple (毛越寺 Moutsuji), and Matsushima Zuigan Temple (松島瑞巌寺 Matsushima Zuiganji), and the pilgrimage route to visit the four temples has become a popular tourist activity in Yamagata. There are many spots along the route that are great for taking Instagram pictures as well. Your trip isn't complete until you've collected a shuin stamp from all four temples! Making a trip to all four temples is sure to be an unforgettable experience. The Pilgrimage Route for Risshaku-ji Temple Photo：Yamadera (Yamagata Prefecture) The recommended route to visit Risshaku-ji Templeis shown below. 1. Start of the trail：Start here. The pilgrimage to Risshaku-ji Temple is more like climbing a mountain. (0:48 in the video) ↓ 2. Konpon Chudo Hall (根本中堂 Konponchudo) ↓ 3. Basho Mound (芭蕉塚 Bashozuka) ↓ 4. Treasure House (宝物殿 Takaramonoden) ↓ 5. Mountain Gate (山門 Sanmon) ↓ 6. Cicada Mound (せみ塚 Semizuka) ↓ 7. Nio Gate (仁王門 Niomon) ↓ 8. Inner Sanctuary (奥の院 Okunoin) (1:22 in the video) ↓ 9. Three-storied Pagoda (三重の小塔 Mieno kotou) ↓ 10. Kaizan Hall (開山堂 Kaizando), Nokei Hall (納経堂 Nokeido) (1:31 in the video) ↓ 11. Godai Hall (五大堂 Godaido) The route takes around 1.5 hours to complete, and you have to climb up 1,050 stone steps! From the start of the trail to the peak, you'll only walk up the steps. You won’t need special attire, just normal clothes and shoes are fine. You can complete a pilgrimage and get some light mountain climbing in at the same time! Take your time enjoying the history and culture of Risshaku-ji Temple. Other halls include Shoso Hall (性相院, Shosoin), Kinjo Hall (金乗院, Kinjoin), Chusei Hall (中性院, Chuseiin), and Kazo Hall (華蔵院, Kazoin). You can check the official website to see the map showing the exact locations of each hall. Tourist Attractions and Dining at Risshaku-ji Temple Photo：konjac at Risshaku-ji Temple The most famous dishes at the ancient Risshaku-ji Temple area are wild vegetable dishes and Japanese Soba - buckwheat noodle. The temple is well-known for being a mountain temple surrounded by the steep cliffs and magnificent mountain views. You can taste delicious Japanese dishes using wild vegetables grown on the mountain. Access to Risshaku-ji Temple in Yamagata prefecture Train：30 minutes by bus or taxi from JR Yamagata Station Car：15 minutes from the Yamagata Expressway Air：30 minutes from Yamagata Airport Risshaku-ji Temple is on top of a very steep cliff. There is a free car park for visitors. However, it is very small, so we recommend that you use public transport when possible. Hotels Around Risshaku-ji Temple If you're visiting Risshaku-ji Temple for a pilgrimage or sightseeing, we recommend staying at a hotel near JR Yamagata Station or JR Yamadera Station on the JR Senzan Line. Summary of the Serene Risshaku-ji Temple in Yamagata Prefecture Photo：Jizo statue Risshaku-ji Temple in Yamagata City, Yamagata Prefecture has been connected with Hie Shrine (日枝神社 Hie Jinja) by Shinbutsu-shugo. It is now completely merged with Risshaku-ji Temple, and In May every year, they have an event called the Sanno Festival. The Harsh climate of Yamagata brings the seasonal beauty of nature- cherry blossoms and plum trees in spring, fresh greenery in summer, beautiful autumnal foliage in fall, and snowy scenery in winter. It's a place where you can enjoy the natural landscape of Japan and majestic views year round. The views from Risshaku-ji Temple are shown at 1:57 in the video. With an elevation difference of approximately 160m, the view from Risshaku-ji Temple on top of the steep cliffs is something special. The video also shows the solemn atmosphere of the mountain temple and the beautiful changes that each season brings. Be sure to check it out if you haven't yet! ◆Risshaku-ji Temple◆ 【Address】4456-1 Yamadera, Yamagata, 999-3301 【Access】30 minutes from Yamagata by car 【Parking】Available. 10 free spaces 【Telephone No.】023-695-2843 【Official website】Risshaku-ji Temple https://www.rissyakuji.jp/

Check Out the Video of the Cardboard Artist Fuyuki Shimazu! The video we introduce this time is "Peeping in 2.0 From Trash to Treasure. The Cardboard Artist Traveling Around the World, Fuyuki Shimizu." When most people hear the word “cardboard”, they probably think of some useless boxes left over from moving. Fuyuki Shimazu however, creates various cardboard items with original ideas based on the concept “From trash to treasure”. This time, we'll introduce the activities of the cardboard artist Fuyuki Shimazu in detail. Fuyuki Shimazu, the Cardboard Artist Introduced in the Video Source :YouTube screenshot What made Fuyuki Shimazu interested in cardboard was something that happened when he was a student at Tama Art University. Since his wallet was ragged and he had no money to buy a new one, he made a cardboard wallet by using some cardboard he found. Since then, Fuyuki Shimazu has started making card cases, coin purses, clutch bags and so on, using unneeded cardboard as materials. You can see these products made from cardboard at 0:17 in the video. Fuyuki Shimazu, a cardboard artist, introduces his works on his Instagram and online sites, and widely introduces the appeal of cardboard art at workshops. The Charm of Cardboard Art Source :YouTube screenshot From 1:13 in the video, Fuyuki Shimazu talks about the charm of cardboard. Fuyuki Shimazu made cardboard art while traveling around the world, and he says he was often fascinated by cardboard design and applications overseas. He says, speaking about the fun of cardboard art, “From the moment I start selecting unwanted cardboard pieces for my work, the cardboard looks like a treasure”. In 2018, a documentary film introducing the activities of Fuyuki Shimazu, titled “Travelling Cardboard” (English title “From All Corners”) was released and it became a hot topic. Also in January 2019, he was introduced as a cardboard artist on the TV program “ Arashi-ni-shiyagare” that the popular pop idol group “Arashi” appears on. In the TV program, Satoshi Ono, one of the group members of Arashi, had a go at making a cardboard wallet. Fuyuki Shimazu is drawing attention from a wide range of people as a cardboard artist. Summary of Cardboard Artist Fuyuki Shimazu Source :YouTube screenshot Fuyuki Shimazu, the cardboard artist featured in the video, sells his work on his own website called "Carton." Prices start at 15,000 JPY (as of February 2020). There is also information about the workshop where you can learn how to make cardboard art. In Amazon and other sites, you can buy his book “How to make Shimazu Fuyuki's cardboard wallets” which comes with a cardboard wallet pattern. If this article or video has you interested in the activities of the cardboard artist, or you want to buy one of his works, be sure to check out his website.

A Closer Look at Kyoto's Kifune Shrine This video, titled "Kifune Shrine in Early Summer / Kifune Jinja / KyotoiitokoVideo" (初夏の貴船神社 / Kifune Jinja / 京都いいとこ動画) was created by "KyotoiitokoVideo." It's an introductory video featuring Kifune Shrine, located in Kyoto city, Kyoto prefecture (京都府京都市). Many people visit Kifune Shrine in search of luck in marriage and it is also known as a famous power spot. In this article we'll introduce, alongside the video, one of the top sightseeing spots in Kyoto: Kifune Shrine. The History and Origin of Kifune Shrine Photo：The main shrine of Kifune Shrine, Kyoto Kifune shrine in Kyoto, a shrine dedicated to the god Takaokami (高霞神), is the head shrine of all of the Kifune shrines in Japan, of which there are approximately 450 in total. It is listed in the Engi Shiki and is considered one of the top 22 most important Shinto shrines in Japan. Kifune shrine is an ancient shrine featured in the oldest records of Japan, such as the Kojiki (古事記, "Records of Ancient Matters") and the Nihon-shoki (日本書紀, "The Chronicles of Japan"). Things to Do at Kifune Shrine Photo：Water divination at Kifune Shrine Beyond the stone staircase that climbs from Kibune River lies the main building of Kifune shrine as well as other smaller buildings where you can purchase goshuin seal stamps or good luck charms called "o-mamori." Here you can try drawing one of the popular water divination slips known as "mizuuranai-mikuji" (水占みくじ). Two horse statues can be found on the grounds of Kifune shrine and it is thought that this was the birth place of the Ema plaques (絵馬). 700 meters upstream of Omoi River (思ひ川) you'll find the rear shrine, and if you make it here you'll have completed "sanshameguri" (三社巡り), which means that you've visited all three areas of the shrine. It is said that a sacred dragon's cave lies within the rear shrine. You can see the rear shrine from 1:03 in the video. Several events are held at Kifune shrine each year, such as the Kifune festival (貴船まつり), Nagoshi no Oharae (夏越の大祓式), Kifune water festival (貴船の水まつり) and the Tanabata festival "Sasa no Sekku" (笹の節供) which is famous for its beautiful bamboo grass decorations. On top of Kifune Shrine's beautiful summer scenery, you can also enjoy the amazing cherry blossom viewing spots in spring and stunning natural scenery in fall in the surrounding area. The area is often lit up in the evening, attracting lots of visitors! A special prayer is held on the first "day of the ox" of every month. Sightseeing and Restaurants in the Surrounding Area Photo：Kawadoko in Kibune, Kyoto Make sure to stop by a Kawadoko (川床) on your trip to Kibune! Kawadoko means "streambed" in Japanese, but it refers to the raised platforms that are constructed over the streambeds in summer to keep visitors cool. Stopping at Kawadoko for lunch is guaranteed to make for an unforgettable experience! We highly recommend the following restaurants which are located in the surrounding area: Kuramadera (鞍馬寺), Hyoue café(兵衛カフェ), Ryouri Ryokan Kibune's Ugenta (右源太) and Sagenta (左源太), Kifune Kurabu (貴船倶楽部) and Toriyachaya (鳥屋茶屋). Kifune Shrine Introductory Video Summary Photo：Kifune Shrine, Kyoto The Kibune area, which boasts a cooler temperature than Kyoto basin (京都盆地), is the perfect place to beat the summer heat! Let the running water of the Kifune river, the source of both the Yodo River (淀川) and Kamo River (鴨川), reinvigorate your body on a hot summer's day! Make sure to take lots of photos of the stunning natural scenery at Kifune Shrine so you can share them on SNS later! ◆Kifune Shrine Facility Information◆ 【Address】180 Kuramakibunecho, Sakyo Ward, Kyoto, 601-1112 (〒601-1112 京都府京都市左京区鞍馬貴船町180) 【Access】From Eizan Electric Railway Kibuneguchi Station, take the Kyoto Bus and get off at Kibune Station. From there it's 5 minutes on foot. 【Admission Fee】Entry is free of charge, Mizuuranai-mikuji: 200 yen for 1 fortune, sacred shrine water: 500 yen for 1 container 【Hours】6:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m. 【Closures】Open year-round 【Parking】Available (25 spaces, 500 yen for 2 hours) 【Phone】075-741-2016 【Tripadvisor】Kifune Shrine https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g298564-d1386169-Reviews-Kifune_Shrine-Kyoto_Kyoto_Prefecture_Kinki.html

The Matsuyama "Dansemble"! Introducing Matsuyama Castle Through an Entertaining Dance Performance! This video, titled "(Matsuyama City Official PR Video) Matsuyama Castle 'Dansemble'" (【松山市公式PR動画】 松山城 「段サンブル」) was created by "Matsuyama City Official Sightseeing PR Channel - matsuyama-sightseeing" (【松山市公式】観光PRチャンネル - matsuyama-sightseeing). The video opens with Matsuyama Castle's mascot "Yoshiaki-kun" (よしあきくん) and then proceeds to introduce the castle itself starting with the castle keep from 0:03. From 0:09 in the video you can see the ropeway that takes visitors to the mountaintop station "Chojaganaru" (長者ヶ平). Other spots around the castle are also introduced, including the Japanese armor experience corner, the gates Tonashimon (戸無門), Kakuremon (隠門), Taikomon (太鼓門), and Ichinomon (一ノ門), as well as Kotenshu (小天守) and Honmaru Hiroba (本丸広場). Matsuyama Castle staff and visitors give a tour of each area whilst performing a comical and entertaining dance. More About the History and Highlights of Matsuyama Castle Photo：Matsuyama Castle, Ehime Prefecture Matsuyama Castle is located in Matsuyama City (松山市, matsuyamashi), Ehime Prefecture and also goes by the names Kinki-jo (金亀城) and Katsuyama-jo (勝山城). The name Iyo Matsuyama Castle (伊予松山城, iyomatsuyamajou) is also used to distinguish Matsuyama Castle in Ehime Prefecture from the Matsuyama Castle of a different area. Matsuyama Castle was built by Yoshiaki Kato (加藤嘉明) in 1602 after the Battle of Sekigahara (関ヶ原の戦い, sekigaharanotatakai) and Gamo Tadatomo (蒲生忠知) later became the first feudal lord of the Matsuyama Domain in Iyo Province. Matsuyama Castle's mascot "Yoshiaki-kun" was named after Yoshiaki Kato. The large castle tower, which is one of twelve castle towers built before the Edo Period (1603 AD - 1868 AD), has been designated an Important Cultural Property of Japan. The castle buildings are spread across several areas of the mountain: the Honmaru (本丸, inner bailey) is situated on top of the mountain, Ninomaru (二の丸, outer bailey) and Sannomaru (三の丸, third bailey) at the southwest foot of the mountain, Kitakuruwa (北曲輪) to the north at the foot of the mountain, and Higashikuruwa (東曲輪) to the east, also at the foot of the mountain. From the top of the main tower you can get a spectacular view of the Matsuyama plains (松山平野, matsuyamaheiya) as well as the Seto Inland Sea (瀬戸内海, setonaikai). The stone wall or "Noboriishigaki" (登り石垣), which surrounds the Ninomaru and Honmaru castle buildings was designed to protect the castle, and the entire Shiroyama Park area (城山公園, shiroyamakouen), which includes Horinouchi (堀之内) is an important Japanese historic site. Highlights of Matsuyama Castle Photo：Matsuyama Castle light up, Ehime Prefecture Matsuyama Castle came in second on Trip Advisor's list of top Japanese Castles in 2014. It has also been voted as one of the top three hilltop castles in Japan, one of Japan's 100 most famous castles, one of the top 100 cherry blossom viewing spots in Japan, one of the top 100 historic spots of Japan, and also one of the top 100 historic parks of Japan (in 2006). Matsuyama Castle can be enjoyed during the day but also looks spectacular lit up at night. The beautiful historical garden "Shisekiteien" (史跡庭園) and Horinouchi Park (堀之内公園, horinouchikouen) are fantastic places to enjoy nature and many people visit each year for cherry blossom viewing and birdwatching. Summary of Matsuyama Castle Photo：Cherry blossoms & Matsuyama Castle, Ehime Prefecture If you decide to visit Matsuyama Castle, you're likely to be greeted by some of the friendly staff featured in this PR video. If you enjoyed watching the video, consider planning a trip to Matsuyama for some sightseeing! There are many tourist spots in the area surrounding the castle, such as the famous hot spring "Dogo Onsen" (道後温泉). Ichiroku Tart (一六タルト) and mandarin oranges ("mikan" in Japanese) make great souvenirs from this area! ◆Matsuyama Castle｜General Information◆ 【Address】Matsuyama Castle General Office (総合事務所, sougoujimusho), Ehime Prefecture, Matsuyama City, Okaido (大街道, ookaidou) 3-2-46 【Access】5 minute walk from Iyotetsu Jonan Line (伊予鉄道城南線, iyotetsudoujounansen) Okaido station. 【Admission Fee】Adults – 520 yen, Children – 160 yen 【Average Time Spent Here】60-90 minutes 【Parking】Available (fee required) 【Telephone】Matsuyama Castle General Office 089-921-4873 【Tripadvisor】Matsuyama Castle https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g298230-d320876-Reviews-Matsuyama_Castle-Matsuyama_Ehime_Prefecture_Shikoku.html

Introducing the Treasures of Gifu: Higashi Mino's Mountain Castle Ruins The video titled "The Treasures of Gifu: “Higashi Mino's Mountain Castle ruins"（岐阜の宝もの「ひがしみのの山城」) was created by "G-Men, Gifu's Handsome Civil Servants." This video introduces the history of different mountain castle ruins in the Gifu area. Gifu prefecture in Japan's Tokai region, officially deemed some of its attractions, that are appreciated all over Japan, the "Treasures of Gifu." In 2017, the Iwamura Castle Ruins and Iwamura Castle Town, as well as the Naegi Castle Ruins, Mino Kaneyama Castle Ruins, and Higashi Mino Castle Ruins, were added to the list of the "Treasures of Gifu." This video and article will take a close look at these castle ruins. If you watch the video very carefully, you'll feel like you're actually visiting these castle ruins and can learn more about the history of Japan. A Look at the Iwamura Castle Ruins Source of photo :YouTube screenshot The places you see in the video from 0:32 are the Iwamura Castle Ruins and Iwamura Castle Town, located in Ena City. Lady Otsuya (おつやの方,Otsuya no Kata), Nobunaga's aunt, was the castellan of Iwamura castle. Iwamura castle was built in the Kamakura period and it has been selected as one of the Top 100 castles in Japan, as well as one of Japan's Top 3 Mountain Castles. What's amazing about these castle ruins is that the castle itself has 17 original wells, six-layered walls, and a fabulous view of the Taiko Yagura (Drum tower). Iwamura castle town has 400 years of history involving merchants and old houses. Also stop by the Iwamura History museum, the Katsukawa House, and Toyasa if you are in the area. You can check out the CG (Computer Graphic) of Iwamura castle at 1:25. The Naegi Castle Ruins Source of photo :YouTube screenshot From 1:54 in the video, Nakatsugawa's Naegi Castle ruins is introduced. Being on top of a 432 meter hill and across from the Kiso-gawa river by mountain castle bridge, Naegi castle has one of the best views in Gifu. You can see the 360 degree panoramic view of Kiso-gawa river and other natural views from the observatory. This castle was constructed in 1526, when Toyama governed the Naegi area from the Warring States Period through the Edo Period. Naegi castle is also one of Top 100 castles in Japan and has a deep history. It has many attractive features, such as a stone wall made of natural gigantic rocks, a castle tower, as well as a large watchtower. You can see stone walls piled up and it looks as though the walls are holding the rocks up. If you're interested in the history of Nakatsugawa or the legend of Naegi castle, be sure to stop by the Naegi Toyama Historical Museum. You can also check out the CG video of Naegi castle at 2:43 in the video. The Mino Kaneyama Castle Ruins Source of photo :YouTube screenshot The Mino Kaneyama castle ruins are introduced in the video at 3:14. The ruins have interesting features, such as cornerstones and broken stone walls. Kaneyama castle is located on top of Mt. Kojo. It's 276 meters (~905 ft.) tall with the best view of Kaneyama in Kani. It was also selected as one of the top 100 castles in Japan and was constructed in 1537. You can also see the remaining cornerstones used for the building. Something interesting to note about Mino Kaneyama Castle is its battering ram. Destroying a castle was the condition of an armistice during Sengoku period. One of the most famous warriors, Mori Ranmaru, grew up in Kaneyama and became the lord of the castle when he was 18. Unfortunately, only two months after becoming lord of the castle, he perished with Oda Nobunaga during the Honnoji Incident. As Kaneyama is Ranmaru Mori’s hometown, there is a place called "Ranmaru Furusato no Mori" where you can see the beautiful view of a canyon. As Kani City, Gifu is the birthplace of Mitsuhide Akechi, there are several fun events related to Japanese history, such as a stamp collecting event and a Sengoku Period treasure hunting event that take place there. The Treasures of Gifu: Mino Higashi's Mountain Castle Ruins Source of photo :YouTube screenshot In the video "The Treasures of Gifu: Mino Higashi's Mountain Castle ruins], viewers are introduced to several popular castle ruins deemed the "Treasures of Gifu." As Japan's Tokai region was one of the most important areas in Japanese history, there are several important castles and castle ruins. Most of the castle ruins are located on top of hills and surrounded by nature, making them the perfect spots for Instagrammers. If you are interested in Japanese history, please come visit Japan and see these popular castles. 【Official Website】Gifu Prefecture Official Website https://www.pref.gifu.lg.jp/foreign-languages/English/

Odawara Castle, a Fortress Feared for Its Impenetrability This is a promotional video for Odawara castle, titled "Odawara Castle PR Video 2013," brought to you by Cityodawara. Odawara castle is a popular tourist destination in Odawara city, Kanagawa prefecture (神奈川県, Kanagawaken), located in the Kanto region of Japan. It's popular with both locals and foreigner visitors alike. Odawara castle was the Odawara clan's stronghold from the Sengoku period until the Edo period and was known and feared for being impenetrable. It would become the domain's administrative headquarters for the Odawara clan. During the reign of the third generation feudal lord Hojo Ujiyasu, the castle underwent substantial military strengthening and became famous as an impenetrable castle after withstanding fierce attacks from both Uesugi Kenshin and Takeda Shingen. At the time of the Battle of Odawara, Hojo Ujimasa set up camp at the castle, and for 5 generations, up until the reign of Hojo Ujinao, his family remained in and protected the castle, and the area flourished as a political center in the southern Kanto region. During this short video we would like to introduce our most recommended sightseeing spots around Odawara castle. Looking at these images will make you feel truly as if you've traveled back in time and will give you a taste of life back in the Warring States period. Sightseeing Spots Around Odawara Castle, Home to the Hojo Clan Photo：Odawara Castle Maidashi Gate After the restoration (from July 2015 to April 2016), Odawara castle became a symbol of Odawara city and one of the city's most popular tourist attractions. Starting with the Castle Tower (天守閣, Tenshukaku), there are also many other places of historic significance, such as the Castle Park (小田原城跡公園, Odawarajouseki kouen), Castle Gate (常盤木門, Tokiwagimon), Copper Gate (銅門, Doumon), Maidashi Gate (馬出門, Umadashimon) and Ninomaru areas. The castle is also famous as a cherry blossom viewing spot in the spring. Throughout this video you can take a look inside the historic castle's grounds. The shot of the cherry blossom in full bloom and the Castle Tower at 1:20 is absolutely breathtaking. By far the most instagrammable spot in the area! In recent years, an increasing number of tourists visit the castle to collect a stamp of the Shogun's seal, called Go-shuin. There are also various museums and events to take part in, such as an armor wearing experience, the Tokiwagimon Samurai Museum (常盤木門SAMURAI館, Tokiwagimon Samurai kan), Odawara Castle History Museum (小田原城歴史見聞館, Odawarajou rekishi kenbunkan), as well as a children's playground to keep the kids entertained. For more detailed information on the facilities, please ask a staff member at the Ninomaru tourist office inside the castle grounds. You can also see the natural beauty of the changing seasons at Odawara castle throughout the video. From 1:37 in the video, you can take a look at the superb view from the Castle Tower overlooking the city, with the ocean in the backdrop. Popular Tourist Attractions in Kanagawa Prefecture: Odawara Castle Area Restaurant Guide Boiled fish paste products, such as kamaboko, are a speciality of the Odawara area. Honmaru tea house (本丸茶屋, Honmaru chaya) and shop, located inside the castle grounds, are popular lunch destinations among visitors, and a great spot to try the local cuisine. Here you can enjoy your lunch, surrounded by the beautiful scenery of the castle. In the vicinity of the castle you can also find many cafes, restaurants, and izakaya (Japanese bar/restaurant). We recommend taking a walk around the castle area and trying some of the local delicacies! Popular Tourist Attractions in Kanagawa Prefecture: Odawara Castle Area Restaurant Guide The following are a list of events which took place at Odawara Castle in 2019: Family History Tour (夏休み親子歴史教室, Natsuyasumi oyako rekishi kyoushitsu)(held during summer vacation), Fuma Ninja Class (風魔忍者教室, Fuuma ninja kyoushitsu), Projection Mapping World Tournament (プロジェクションマッピング世界大会, purojekushon mappingu sekaitaikai), Sengoku Gonbei Original Art Exhibition (センゴク権兵原画展, Sengokugonbei gengaten) and the Odawara Lantern Summer Festival (小田原ちょうちん夏祭り, Odawara chouchin natsumatsuri). For more details, please check the official Odawara Castle home page. Popular Tourist Attractions in Kanagawa Prefecture: Odawara Castle Introduction Summary Photo：Cherry Blossoms at Odawara Castle Odawara Castle can be accessed by a 10-minute walk from Odawara Castle Train Station (小田原城駅, Odawarajou eki). If you are travelling by car, you can reach Odawara castle from Ogikubo Interchange (荻窪IC, Ogikubo IC), Odawara Atsugi Road (小田原厚木道路, Odawara atsugidouro) in around 10 minutes. Please note that that there is no parking lot at Odawara Castle Park. Odawara castle is a tourist spot in Kanagawa prefecture that has grown equal in popularity to destinations such as Yokohama, Shonan, and Kamakura. Why not take a trip to Odawara Castle and experience some of Japan's rich cultural history? Be sure to enjoy the video, it may give you a taste of what it felt like to be a samurai warrior during the Warring States period! ◆Odawara Castle◆ 【Address】 Odawara Castle, Odawara City, Kanagawa Prefecture 250-0014 【Access】10-minute walk from Odawara station (小田原駅, Odawaraeki)(JR Eastern Japan) 【Hours】9:00～17:00 【Parking】No car park on site 【Telephone】0465-23-1373 【Official Website】Odawara Castle https://odawaracastle.com/ 【Tripadvisor】Odawara Castle https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g1021278-d1311266-Reviews-Odawara_Castle-Odawara_Kanagawa_Prefecture_Kanto.html

The Autumn Foliage at Chuson-ji Temple, Hiraizumi This video, titled "JG☆☆☆☆☆8K HDR 岩手 平泉中尊寺の紅葉(国宝,世界遺産) Iwate, Hiraizumi Chusonji Temple in Autumn (World Heritage)" is a PR video for the colorful autumn foliage of Hiraizumi's Chuson-ji Temple in Iwate. Chuson-ji Temple in Hiraizumi, associated with the Northern Fujiwara clan for three generations, is known as a treasury of Heian art, and Konjikido, which can be seen at 4:47 in the video, is a national treasure. Chuson-ji Temple , where Yakushi Nyorai is enshrined, is said to be good for curing illness, prolonging one's life, and curing eye diseases. We recommend that you bring your red seal book to collect your shuin, and buy a health charm as a souvenir of your visit. What Kind of Temple Chuson-ji? Photo：Autumn Leaves at Chuson-ji Temple Chuson-ji Temple was reportedly built in 850 by Jikaku Daishi Ennin, an eminent monk who studied under Saichō at Enryaku-ji Temple on Mount Hiei. However, this is unclear, and it is said that the origin of Chuson-ji Temple dates back to the Tahōtō pagodas built by Fujiwara no Kiyohira around the 12th century. The history of Chuson-ji Temple is described in the "Rakkei Kuyo Ganmon," a work designated an Important Cultural Property. The mummies of Kiyohira and three of his descendants are enshrined in the National Treasure Konjikido, built by Fujiwara no Kiyohira as his own mausoleum. It is also famous as one of the best places to view the autumn foliage in Iwate Prefecture. The Beautiful Autumn Foliage of Chuson-Ji Temple Source :YouTube screenshot If you're visiting Chuson-ji Temple, you'll want to take your time to see the National Treasure Konjikido and the grounds of the Special Historic Site. We also recommend a tour of the main hall at the end of Tsukimizaka (see video at 3:02), and the sutra repository, an important cultural property. You should also take a look at the East observation platform, Benkei Hall, Jizo Hall, Yakushido Hall, and Amida Hall, which can be seen at 1:07 in the video. The Fujiwara Festival in spring, Takigi no Noh in summer, the Fujiwara Festival in autumn, the Chrysanthemum Festival (shown at 2:46 in the video), hatsumode, and the Setsubun celebration in February, are also notable events held throughout the year. Chuson-ji Temple also offers purification ceremonies as well as Buddhist wedding ceremonies. Chuson-ji Temple is also part of the "Four Temples Pilgrimage" pilgrimage route in the Tohoku region, so you can visit it along with other famous temples such as Motsu-ji Temple. You can also enjoy the colorful autumn foliage all over the temple grounds during the fall season, as seen in the video. You can see the approach to the temple dyed in red and yellow at 0:14 in the video, the maple leaves surrounding the Benzaiten at 0:38, and the bright red foliage behind the yellow, white and purple chrysanthemum festival site at 4:36 in the video. Summary of Autumn Foliage at Chuson-Ji Temple Photo：Chuson-ji Temple・Bishamon Hall The video shows the beautiful autumn foliage of Chuson-ji Temple in Iwate Prefecture. There are many places on the temple ground that are great for taking pictures. Be sure to post them on your Instagram! The area around Chuson-ji Temple is dotted with accommodations and lunch spots, making it convenient for sightseeing. If you're planning on visiting Chuson-ji, try to go when the weather is nice so you can get a great view of the beautiful autumn leaves. If you want to visit Chuson-ji Temple, we recommend using the "Hiraizumi Chuson-ji-go" bus that departs from Sendai. ◆Chuson-ji Temple in Hiraizumi◆ 【Address】Koromonoseki-202 Hiraizumi, Nishiiwai District, Iwate 029-4102 【Access】5 minutes by bus from JR Hiraizumi Station 【Telephone】0191-46-2211 【Hours】March 1st to November 3rd : 8:30 to 17:00, November 4th to the end of February : 8:30 to 16:30 【Admission fee】Adults : 800 yen, High school students : 500 yen, Junior High school students : 300 yen, Elementary school students : 200 yen (As of March , 2020) 【Parking 】Available (~400 yen) 【Official Website】Kanzan Chuson-ji Temple［Head Temple in Tohoku of Tendai-shu in Hiraizumi, Iwate］ https://www.chusonji.or.jp/language_en/index.html

Introducing Iga Ueno Castle! This is a video introducing Iga Ueno castle in Mie, which was selected as one of Japan’s Top 100 Castles. The title of the video is "Japan’s Top 100 Castles, Iga Ueno Castle, Mie Prefecture" (日本100名城　伊賀上野城　三重県　Iga Ueno Castle), published by “castle shrine.” Iga, Mie prefecture is known as the origin of Ninjas. As shown at the beginning of the video, the nearest station to the castle, Ueno-shi station, is also called Ninja-shi station ("shi" means city in Japanese). Iga Ueno castle is famous for its massive stone walls. In the video at 3:32, you can see the majestic castle as it sits atop the towering stone walls. These tall stone walls are the second largest stone walls in Japan after Osaka castle. Many tourists gather here for cherry blossom viewing and to see the autumn leaves at this scenic castle. We hope you'll enjoy the video showing the castle in all its grandeur. A Look at Iga Ueno Castle Photo：Iga Ueno Castle in spring Iga Ueno castle was built on Ueno Plateau in the Iga area. The castle was classified as a hirayama style castle (built on a hill in a plain) and also called Hakuho castle. It was known as a defensive castle as there are two rivers near it. These rivers were a great advantage in protecting the castle when attacked. Before Iga Ueno castle was built, there were different buildings, such as a temple and a small castle, at the site of Iga Ueno castle. In the Warring States period (1467-1615), construction of Iga Ueno castle began under the authority of military commander, Katsutoshi Takigawa. After that, Tsutsui Sadatsugu reconstructed the castle by referring to the manuscript "Isui Unko," written by Nyogen Kikuoka. Finally, the castle was expanded by Takatora Toda who received it from Hideyoshi Toyotomi. Shortly thereafter, Takatora became the lord of the castle. The current Iga Ueno castle is a castle keep, also called "Iga Cultural Property." Different calligraphic works are embedded in the coffers of the top floor as well. These calligraphic works are outstanding and the castle is now designated as a cultural property of Iga. Sightseeing at Iga Ueno Castle and the Castle Town Photo：Iga Ueno castle, Scenery from the castle tower Ueno park is located around Iga Ueno Castle. This park is popular for literary fans as there are different historical buildings related to Matsuo Basho, a famous poet who was from Ueno. There are also Ninja museums and different Ninja attractions, so it is a perfect place to have fun and learn about Ninja culture. Stop by restaurants and gift stores in the castle town to enjoy the local specialties. Summary of Iga Ueno Castle Photo：Iga Ueno Castle , castle tower Iga Ueno castle is a great place to visit and see the castle tower, Hakuho gate, and cultural properties on display inside the castle. You can also collect a seal of the castle if you have a castle stamp book. Check out the video and see the wonderful view from the top of the castle tower. Matsuzaka castle is also located in Mie, so if you can, we recommend visiting both. ◆Information of Iga Ueno Castle◆ 【Address】106 Ueno-marunouchi, Iga, Mie 【Access】An 8 minute walk from Iga railway Ueno-shi station 【Admission fee】600 yen for an adult, 300 yen for a child 【Hours】9:00 - 17:00 【Parking】Paid Parking Available 【Telephone No】0595-21-3148 【Official Website】Iga Ueno Castle http://igaueno-castle.jp/?page_id=196 【Tripadvisor】Iga Ueno Castle https://www.tripadvisor.com/ShowUserReviews-g1015945-d1810041-r645274595-Iga_Ueno_Castle-Iga_Mie_Prefecture_Tokai_Chubu.html

Himeji Castle's Colorful 3D Projection Mapping This video was created by “beaphoto1” and introduces Himeji Castle's 3D projection mapping event- "HAKUA." This event was held in May 2015. The national treasure Himeji castle, located in Honmachi, Himeji, Hyogo Prefecture, was designated as Japan's first World Cultural Heritage Site in December 1993, along with Horyu-ji Temple in Nara. Nicknamed "Shirasagi Castle" (白鷺城, lit "White Heron Castle") for its graceful appearance that resembles a white heron spreading its wings, it has been selected as one of the 100 most famous castles in Japan. Photo：Himeji Castle post-restoration In October 2009, the restoration and repair of the castle's main tower began, which included repainting the plaster and replacing damaged tiles. Himeji castle regained its brilliance and re-opened in March 2015. The light show, "HAKUA," was held to celebrate the reopening of Himeji Castle as the part of the 66th Himeji Castle Festival. In the 11 minute video, you can watch the entire projection mapping show from beginning to end. Enjoy the beautiful 3D projection mapping that lights up the famous white castle. It's amazing how different the castle looks with all of the colorful lighting. The 3D Projection Mapping of Himeji Castle Source :YouTube screenshot The projection mapping event at Himeji castle actually has a story to go with it. Prologue. (0:51) The title and the outline of the story beautifully appears on the white castle. Chapter 1. Prologue -Birth- (1:59) The highlight of this chapter is the construction of Himeji Castle. You can see the construction at 3:10, where the castle is being built as the cherry blossoms and autumn leaves grow around it gradually. As more levels are added to Himeji castle, you can feel the flow of time through the cherry blossoms, red leaves, and snow that signify the changing of the seasons. Chapter 2. Tradition -Legend- (4:56) This chapter shows the birth of Kanbei Kuroda, who later became the lord of Himeji Castle. He aimed to rule the world. Chapter 3. Brilliance -From Tradition to Modernity- (6:15) This chapter shows the pictures of Himeji Castle drawn by 731 elementary school students in Himeji City. 100 of them have been selected and animated. Chapter 4. Conclusion -Finish- (8:11) White herons dance gracefully on Himeji Castle and a grand fireworks display brings the story to a close. This article is only a brief overview of the castle. Be sure to watch the video and enjoy the 3D projection mapping! It's so beautiful watching time pass in the blink of an eye. The history of this projection mapping is surprisingly old, and it is said to have been started in the 1960s. It became more well-know when they had a projection mapping show at the Marunouchi side of Tokyo Station in 2012. Tourist Spots at Himeji Castle Photo：Himeji Castle Cherry Blossoms Himeji Castle, which is registered as a World Heritage Site, is also popular for cherry blossom viewing. Lots of people visit Himeji park to see the cherry blossoms in the spring. When all the cherry blossoms are in full bloom surrounding and contrasting the white Himeji castle, it's an absolutely amazing scene. Be sure to bring you camera and get some Instagram pictures! The World Heritage Himeji Castle Marathon is held every February and is also a popular event. There are several cafes and restaurants near Himeji castle as well. Check out the reviews on yelp and look for a restaurant you want to visit. There are also many parking spots around Himeji castle if you'd rather drive. Access is about a 16-minute walk from Himeji Station off the JR Kishin Line, JR Bantan Line, and JR Sanyo Main Line. The admission fee is 1,050 yen (~$10 USD) for adults and 360 yen children (as of October 2019). Please be aware that Himeji castle may be very crowded depending on the season and time. Summary of Himeji Castle's 3D Projection Mapping What'd you think of the Himeji Castle 3D projection mapping video? It's not possible to fully convey the beauty of the actual event through words, so be sure to check out the video if you still haven't yet! Himeji castle’s 3D projection mapping event in 2015 was a one-time event, but another projection mapping event, "The 25th Anniversary of the World Heritage Registration of Himeji Castle "CASTLE OF LIGHT - Garden of Light at" was held here and was also very popular. Of course, there is more to see at Himeji castle besides the events. Lately, goshuin (the honorable red seal)has become popular among young people in recent years, and some castles have a similar "Goshouin" (castle seal) to commemorate your visit to the castle. If the video of the heron spreading its wings over Himeji Castle has intrigued you, be sure to put it on your itinerary! You might even get to meet the official character “Shiromaru Hime.” ◆Infomation about Himeji Castle Facility◆ 【Address】68 Honmachi Himeji, Hyogo 670-0012 【Access】16 minutes walk from “Himeji Station” on JR Kishin Line, JR Bantan Line, and JR Sanyo Main Line. 【Entrance fee】1,050 yen for an adult, 360 yen for a child (As of November 2019) 【Hours】9 am to 4 pm 【Closures】December 29th to 30th 【Parking】Available 【Telephone No.】079-285-1146

The Paper Cutout “Octopus”: Amazing Art Made With a Single Sheet of Paper! Before we begin, take a look at the video "([Kirie] Fast forwarding from the beginning to the completion of "Octopus" / Octopus Production Video)!" (（【切り絵】早送りで切り始めから完成まで『海蛸子』制作動画／Octopus Production Video）)! This artwork “Octopus” looks just like the real thing, but actually, it was created through the Japanese paper cutting technique “Kirie (切り絵).” The title of this artwork is “Octopus.” Paper cutting artists never use multiple sheets of paper; They only use one sheet of paper to cut out their designs. In this article, we'll explore the secrets of kirie techniques, and the handiwork of its artisans to find out how these delicate and artistic works of art are created. This video fast-forwards through the process of making kirie in just under 4 minutes. Not a single second of the amazing craftsmanship in the video is to be missed! What Is Kirie? How Was That Octopus Made? Source :YouTube screenshot It was KIRIKEN (Masayo Fukuda), a Japanese Kirie artist, who released the artwork “Octopus” in 2018. The main characteristic of her artwork is that she can create a beautiful see-through designs of animals, as well as dynamic movement and even shading using only one sheet of paper. It takes about two months to create artistic paper cutouts like "Octopus." Drawing a detailed design of an octopus and continuously cutting paper is a daunting task. You can see KIRIKEN working on some paper cutting at 0:30 in this video. Once a wide variety of her paper cutouts were introduced on social media, including “Octopus,” she received a multitude of comments from people amazed at the quality of her paper cutting, describing her work as “Beautiful,” with compliments like “I'm at a loss for words.” This paper cutout is so realistic, it's as if the octopus could start moving at any moment. Even it's eyes at 1:18 and suckers from 2:21 are amazing. Let’s Give Paper Cutting a Try! Photo：A Kirie Cutout Some people might think that paper cutting is difficult, but it's actually quite a simple concept. Beginners can try it out very easily. Once you get a sheet of origami paper, scissors, and a paper knife, start by drawing your design on the paper and cut that out. The trick to making good paper cutouts is to cut the design very slowly and carefully. If you want to know how to make paper cutouts in more detail, you can also look into trial classes. Overview: The Deep World of Paper Cutting Paper cutting has a long history; In China, people have created paper cutouts since the Period of the North and South Dynasties. Paper cutting is an easy art at its core; All one has to do is cut one shape out of paper. But as you can see from this video of the octopus paper cutout, the world of paper cutting is very deep. Can you believe that this artwork is made from just one sheet of paper? If you haven't watched the video yet, be sure to check it out. You'll be amazed. It's easy to get started because all you need is paper and a knife. These days, paper cutting has been getting more and more popular as a new kind of hobby. Please check out how to make paper cutouts and enjoy the world of paper cutting! Kirie is a world-class technique for contemporary art and modern Japanese craftsmanship. 【Official Website】KIRIKEN Masayo: Japanese Paper Cutting Artist https://kiriken.thebecos.com/en/

Sekiguchi Catholic Church, St. Mary's Cathedral Tokyo The aerial video, "St. Mary's Cathedral Tokyo" (空撮 東京カテドラル聖マリア大聖堂), was created by "FUJISAN DRONE BASE - (富士山ドローンベース)," using mainly a drone to gather amazing footage of St. Mary’s Cathedral Tokyo. St. Mary's Cathedral is a Catholic church in Tokyo designed by Kenzo Tange, one of the masters of modern Japanese architecture, also known as the "World's Tange." In this article, we'll introduce St. Mary's Cathedral Tokyo. In the video we see an awesome aerial view of St. Mary's Cathedral Tokyo, which is normally on seen from ground level. You'll be impressed by the beautiful reflection of the church in the evening and at night. What is St. Mary’s Cathedral Tokyo? Photo：St. Mary's Cathedral Tokyo St. Mary’s Cathedral Tokyo is a church located in the Bunkyo-ku area of Tokyo, a 15-minute walk from Edogawabashi Station on the Tokyo Metro Yurakucho Line, across from the Chinzan-sō” building. It has the largest number of adherents in Japan in the Catholic Church's bishopric, which covers Tokyo and Chiba Prefecture. It is also accessible by bus from Mejiro Station on the JR Yamanote Line. It was originally built in a wooden Gothic style in 1899 as an auxiliary temple of "Maikai Juku" (玫瑰塾) but the building was destroyed by fire during the air raids of World War II in Tokyo. The present building being constructed in 1963. Outside the building is Lourdes Grotto, where you can see a magnificent statue of the Virgin Mary. You can see Lourdes Grotto at 2:09 in the video. Source :YouTube screenshot There is also a bust of St. Francis Xavier and a replica of Michelangelo's Pieta found in the Basilica of St. Peter in the Vatican. Michelangelo's Pieta can be seen at 2:58 in the video. English Masses and lectures by a priest are also held at St. Mary’s Cathedral Tokyo and you don't need to be a follower to attend. Other events, such as a pipe organ concert, which can be seen at 3:16 in the video, are also held, and weddings and ceremonies can be held there as well. You can also tour the facility during public hours. Also in 2019, the Pope attended "World Youth Day" at St. Mary's Cathedral Tokyo. St. Mary’s Cathedral Tokyo - Modern Japanese Architecture Source :YouTube screenshot St. Mary's Cathedral Tokyo is a very popular building designed by Kenzo Tange. The building has a thin, curved, hyperbolic-parabolic shell structure, and the exterior walls are made of stainless steel. As you can see from 4:30, when viewed from the sky it's shaped like a cross. There are no pillars in the bare concrete interior, which gives it a solemn and sacred atmosphere. The inside of the building is shown at 2:27 in the video. The building was designed without the use of CG and 3D techniques, and was entirely hand drawn. Summary of St. Mary’s Cathedral Tokyo Source :YouTube screenshot This video "St. Mary's Cathedral Tokyo" introduces the beautiful catholic church in Tokyo, through aerial footage. In 1978, singer Doji Morita (森田童子) performed live at the Cathedral and the CD "St. Mary's Cathedral Tokyo Recording" was released, allowing listeners to feel the atmosphere of the cathedral. Enjoy the video showing St. Mary's Cathedral Tokyo glistening in the sunshine and its amazing structure in the nightscape of Tokyo. 【Tripadvisor】St. Mary's Cathedral Tokyo https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g1066442-d1373757-Reviews-St_Mary_s_Cathedral_Tokyo-Bunkyo_Tokyo_Tokyo_Prefecture_Kanto.html

Video on prestigious Kashima Shrine in Ibaraki If you're looking to receive the divine blessings of a historical shrine or just want to go sightseeing to discover the history of Japan, then this is the video for you! This video, titled "Superb Views in Ibaraki - Kashima Jingu Shrine | VISIT IBARAKI, JAPAN" (【絶景茨城】鹿島神宮 | VIST IBARAKI,JAPAN), made by Ibakira TV, shows Kashima Shrine which is dedicated to the God of martial arts. You won't be able to look away after witnessing the solemn atmosphere and beauty of this historical shrine. The video also explains the history of the shrine. It's a must-see for anyone interested in Japanese culture or history! In this article, we'll talk about the history and allure of Kashima Shrine. Be sure to follow along with the video! A Look at Kashima Shrine Source :YouTube screenshot Kashima Shrine is a very popular tourist attraction in Japan. It's dedicated to the Great God of martial arts, Takemikazuchi. Within Kashima Shrine, there are many articles that have been designated National Important Cultural Properties. These articles have been donated by various family members from the Tokugawa Shogunate family line over the years. The current shrine building was built by Tokugawa Hidetada, while the rear shrine building was built by Tokugawa Ieyasu, and the tower gates by Tokugawa Yorifusa, the first Mito feudal lord. If you're a history buff definitely check it out! As you proceed along the rear approach to the shrine, you can see Mitarai Pond and "Kaname Ishi," said to calm earthquakes. Kaname Ishi is shown at 1:32. You can feel the mystical atmosphere from the video. Other tourist attractions that you shouldn’t miss out on when visiting Kashima Shrine are the Deer Park and Rear Shrine. While you enjoy the views of beautiful Kashima Shrine, you can also learn the history through the video! Information on Kashima Shrine and the Surrounding Area Photo：Mitarashi Pond Here we give you information about the grounds of the popular Kashima Shrine and its surrounding area! The Kashima Shrine grounds are approximately 70 hectares (~173 acres) in size. The area is dotted with viewpoints for enjoying the beautiful scenery and famous historical locations. You'll come across Torii gates near the car par park of Kashima Shrine. The gates are followed by the tower gate and the main shrine building. As you proceed along the rear approach, you'll see the Deer Park, the Rear Shrine, and Mitarashi Pond. There is a shop selling good luck charms, votive pictures, and red seals, so if you're looking for souvenirs of Kashima Jingu Shrine or just want to get some power from the shrine, definitely check it out. You should also visit Ichi no Torii Gate, a famous water gate near Kashima Shrine. It can be seen at 0:07 in the video. Be sure to drop by if you're visiting the shrine. Summary of Kashima Shrine, a Famous Tourist Attraction in Japan "Superb Views in Ibaraki - Kashima Jingu Shrine | VISIT IBARAKI, JAPAN," made by Ibakira TV, is a fascinating video in which you can learn about the history of Kashima shrine. If you're into Japanese history, this is a video you've got to see! We recommend Kashima Shrine as a tourist attraction in Japan. It's perfect for those who want to learn more history and those looking to see traditional Japanese scenery! Be sure to check out the video before your visit! ◆Kashima Shrine◆ 【Address】2306-1 Oaza-kyuchu, Kashima City, Ibaraki 314-0031 Japan 【Access】10 minutes from Kashima Shrine Station on Kashima Line 【Hours】24 hours 【Parking】Yes 【Telephone No.】0299-82-1209 【Tripadviser】Kashima Shrine https://www.tripadvisor.jp/Attraction_Review-g1021215-d1407488-Reviews-Kashima_Jingu-Kashima_Ibaraki_Prefecture_Kanto.html

The 500 Arhats This video in this article will introduce “Takashi Murakami’s The 500 Arhats”. The special footage is produced by the official Mori Art Museum. The 500 Arhats exhibition was an event gallery held at the Roppongi Hills Mori Art Museum between 2015 and 2016. Let’s explore the magnetism of The 500 Arhats exhibition, a modern art exhibition which received the Minister of Education Award for Fine Arts. Who is Takashi Murakami? Source :村上隆 | Kaikai Kiki Gallery Takashi Murakami, is a contemporary artist who has made many pop art pieces. Along with his accomplishments as a pop artist, he is also the CEO of Kaikai Kiki Co. Ltd., and acts as a curator, and collector, as well as a film director. He is also the chairman of the contemporary art fair “Geisai”. In recent years, having had a cameo in the movie “Star Wars” also created a small buzz. His younger brother, Yuji Murakami, has also produced works as a pop artist. Takashi Murakami's Representative Works Source :Kaikai Kiki Co., Ltd. Takashi Murakami’s famous artwork is “Flower”, known for its cute smile. The flower motif has been turned into products such as pillows (the flower pillow), key-chains, posters, and sticker packs and sold in shops. Also, his collaboration with the world-famous brand Louis Vuitton is another hot topic of discussion. His widely known work, the life-sized figurine “My Lonesome Cowboy” was auctioned abroad for 1.6 billion yen. Takashi Murakami is also largely influencing the anime subculture, also referred to as "Otaku" culture. Over the recent years, he has been doing exhibitions, such as the Doraemon poster exhibitions, and also creating works as a “Superflat” artist influenced by manga, anime, and media that is representative of modern culture. What Is the 500 Arhats Exhibit Source :YouTube screenshot In the above footage you can see the large-scale exhibition of Takashi Murakami that was held at the Roppongi Hills Mori Art Museum. What we can see around 1:23 and 2:02 in the video is a massive one-hundred-meter-long painting. It is a powerful piece that revived rakanzu, by Nagasawa Rosetsu and Kano Kazunobu, artists from the Edo period (1603-1868), as modern art. Summary of Takashi Murakami’s “The 500 Arhats” Source :YouTube screenshot Takashi Murakami’s exhibitions have been held in Tokyo and Kyoto as well as cities such as New York and Qatar. If this article has made you interested in Takashi Murakami, we recommend checking out his Instagram or visiting one of his exhibitions yourself. If you haven't watched it yet, don't forget to check out the video introducing The 500 Arhats exhibition as well! 【Official Website】Takashi Murakami - Kaikai Kiki Co., Ltd. https://www.kaikaikiki.co.jp/artist/murakami/

Introducing Okazaki Castle, the Birthplace of the Gods The video this time is titled "[Touken World] 'Okazaki Castle'｜Swords and Armor｜Sword and Armor Displays in the Castle｜YouTube Video" (【刀剣ワールド】「岡崎城」刀剣・甲冑に会える城｜刀剣・甲冑展示の城郭 YouTube動画), released by "Virtual Sword Museum 'Touken World'." It introduces Okazaki Castle at Okazaki Park in Okazaki City, Aichi Prefecture, in Japan's Tokai region. Okazaki Castle is known as the birthplace of Tokugawa Ieyasu, and is famous for being the base of operations for Tokugawa Ieyasu, who returned to Mikawa (present-day Aichi Prefecture) after the Battle of Okehazama and used it as his base for unifying the country. This Okazaki Castle was deified as "the birthplace of the gods," and the Daimyo who became the lords of Okazaki Castle were proud to serve as its ruler. As you can see from 1:33 in the video, there are various exhibits of swords and armor related to Okazaki Castle. One of the most famous swords from the Muromachi period (1336-1573), "Kanemoto," with its impressive temper, resembling majestic mountains, can be seen at 1:51 in the video. At the The Ieyasu And Mikawa Bushi Museum in Okazaki Park, which can be seen at 2:09 in the video, visitors can learn about the history of the Matsudaira family, the ancestors of the Tokugawa family, from their beginnings to the unification of the Tokugawa family. A Kindami Gusoku (type of body armor), made of gold leaf, is also on display. A Look at Okazaki Castle Photo：Okazaki Castle Okazaki Castle is a Japanese castle located in the Mikawa Kuni Okazaki Domain (present-day Kosei Town, Okazaki City, Aichi Prefecture). Also known as "Ryujo," it was owned by the Matsudaira family during the Warring States period (1467-1615 AD) until the Azuchi-Momoyama period (1573-1598 AD). Okazaki Castle is said to have been built by Saigo Tsuguyori, a descendant of the Niki clan in Mikawa Province, and his son Yoritsugu Saigo At that time, it was called "Ryuzu Castle." Tokugawa Ieyasu was born inside the castle in 1542. Therefore, it is called the birthplace of Tokugawa Ieyasu. In the Edo period (1603 to 1868), it was written as "岡竒城" as oppsed to the current kanji "岡崎城" (same pronunciation). After the Meiji Restoration (1853-1867 AD), most of the castle wall at Okazaki Castle was demolished, but in 1959 the castle tower was restored to a three-layer, five-story building, and in 2006 it was listed as one of "Japan's Top 100 Castles." You can get to Okazaki Castle by foot from Meitetsu Higashi Okazaki Station or Okazaki Koen Station, or by local bus from Okazaki Koenmae Bus Stop. Vista Line Connecting Okazaki Castle and Taiju Temple Photo：Tokugawa Ieyasu・Daiju-ji Daiju-ji, a temple located around Okazaki Castle, is where Tokugawa Ieyasu, who, broken from his defeat in the Battle of Okehazama, attempted to commit ritual suicide, but was dissuaded by the chief priest. This 3-kilometer-long line that connects Okazaki Castle and Daiju-ji is known as the Vista Line, and it has been preserved for 370 years as a historical spot and a historical view. In modern times, the Vista Line has been drawn using laser light, and an event called the "Vista Line of Light" has also been held. Facilities Around Okazaki Castle Photo：Cherry blossoms at Okazaki Castle Okazaki Park, where Okazaki Castle is located, is famous for its cherry blossoms, and has been selected as one of the top 100 cherry blossom sites in Japan. A famous place in Okazaki Park is the Yachiyo Honten, where you can eat dengaku cuisine using Hatcho miso. Yachiyo Honten is a long-established Japanese restaurant that has been in business for more than 120 years. The Kinome Dengaku, grilled with the traditional technique of Yachiyo Honten, is an exquisite local specialty that can only be found at this restaurant. Also, in the castle town, there is an area called Hatcho Village, and there are traditional shops such as Hatcho Miso and Kakukyu Hatcho Miso, so please enjoy gourmet food and lunch. There are also temples and shrines, such as Rokusho Shrine, Takisan Toshogu Shrine, and Ise Hachimangu Shrine in the surrounding area, so we recommend visiting these to anyone collecting red seal stamps, after visiting Okazaki Castle. Summary of Okazaki Castle Photo：Okazaki Castle In the video you can learn more about Okazaki Castle, the birthplace of Tokugawa Ieyasu. Okazaki Castle is a historical spot that we highly recommend visiting, as it is associated with Tokugawa Ieyasu, a famous warlord from the Warring States period. If you're interested, be sure to stop by Okazaki City, Aichi Prefecture. ◆Okazaki Castle Facility Overview◆ 【Address】561-1 Koseicho, Okazaki City, Aichi Prefecture, 444-0052 【Access】15 minutes walk from Meitetsu Higashi Okazaki Station 【Hours】 9:00-17:00 【Closures】End of the year (December 29-December 31) 【Admission fee】200 yen for adults 【Parking】Paid parking available 【Telephone No】0564-22-2122 【Official Website】Okazaki Castle Home Page | Okazaki Castle (Main Tower) | Special Features | Okazaki Park | Okazaki Outing Navigation-Okazaki City Tourist Association Official Site https://okazaki-kanko.jp/en 【Tripadvisor】Okazaki Castle https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g788304-d1309910-Reviews-Okazaki_Castle-Okazaki_Aichi_Prefecture_Tokai_Chubu.html

Introducing Hikone Castle! This video, titled "[Touken World] 'Hikone Castle' A Castle of Swords and Armor｜Sword and Armor Exhibits｜YouTube Video" (【刀剣ワールド】「彦根城」刀剣・甲冑に会える城｜刀剣・甲冑展示の城郭 YouTube動画), produced by "Virtual Sword Museum [Touken World]," is a video introducing Hikone Castle, which is designated as an important cultural asset of Japan. Hikone Castle stands on Mt. Konki with a view of Lake Biwa and is a special historical site and a Class 1 Special Area of Lake Biwa National Park representing Hikone, Shiga Prefecture. The castle is a must-see for history buffs, as you can see swords, armor and other valuable instruments used by Daimyo (Japan's feudal lords). In this article, we'll introduce Hikone Castle, which has been designated a national treasure, alongside the video. What Is Hikone Castle? Photo：Shiga Prefecture・Hikone Castle Hikone Castle is a castle located in Hikone, Shiga Prefecture, which was once a prosperous castle town. It features one of Japan's 12 existing castle towers (five national treasures and seven important cultural properties) and is a popular tourist spot in Shiga Prefecture. It was built by Ii Naomasa and Ii Naotsugu who were ordered by Tokugawa Ieyasu to build the castle after the Battle of Sekigahara. The castle was completed in 1622, 20 years after construction began. You can see the entirety of Hikone Castle at 0:31 in the video. Currently, there are 12 castles built up to the Edo period (1603-1868), that still remain today with existing castle towers. Five castles, including Hikone Castle, have been selected as national treasures. Besides Hikone Castle, Inuyama Castle in Aichi prefecture, Matsumoto Castle in Nagano prefecture, Himeji Castle in Hyogo prefecture, and Matsue Castle in Shimane prefecture, are also designated as national treasures. Hikone Castle is a magnificent castle that has passed the beauty, age, and historical standards to be designated as a national treasure. As you can see from 0:59 in the video, a stone statue engraved with the words "The 8 views of Lake Biwa, Hikone Castle," has been erected in the moat of Hikone Castle. Highlights of Hikone Castle Source :YouTube screenshot The appeal of Hikone Castle is that its beautiful and dignified appearance survived the order to abandon castles and the fires from the war in the Meiji period (1868-1912). The construction of the castle is characterized by its use of stone walls and lumber from neighboring castles. The Tenshu (castle tower), Tsuke-yagura (attached towers), the Sawaguchi Tamon watchtower, and the three-storied western citadel watchtower, which were built before the Edo era, are designated as national treasures, and are one of the attractions of Hikone Castle. You can also see the Taikomon watchtower and Tenbin watchtowers in a very similar state as they were back then. The Hikone Castle Museum, located near the castle, is a must-visit spot for any history buffs out there. There are swords and helmets that were passed down to the the Ii Family, the Hikone clan leaders, that are exhibited there and you can also see valuable cultural assets. Beautiful Japanese swords that have been handed down from generation to generation in the Ii family are also on display. The exhibits of the Hikone Castle Museum can be seen at 2:12 in the video. Hikone Castle: General Information Photo：Hikonyan The admission fees for Hikone Castle is as follows: General admission ¥600 (high school students and above), ¥200 for elementary and junior high school students. Admission fees for the Hikone Castle Museum are: General admission ¥500, and ¥250 for elementary and junior high school students. They can also be bought in sets, and there's a ¥100 discount for general admission. Hikone Castle is open mostly all year round from 8:30-17:00. The average time spent at the castle is about an hour and a half. Access to the castle is a 15-minute walk from JR Hikone Station. There are several parking lots around Hikone Castle. The popular local mascot "Hikonyan" can be found in front of the castle tower of Hikone Castle and at the entrance to Hikone Castle Museum (free admission area) 3 times a month. Summary of Hikone Castle Photo：Hikone Castle "[Touken World] 'Hikone Castle' A Castle of Swords and Armor｜Sword and Armor Exhibits｜YouTube Video," produced by "Virtual Sword Museum [Touken World]," is a video that introduces Hikone Castle, a castle designated as a national important cultural asset. You can learn about the history of Hikone Castle as well as see swords and armor on display at Hikone Castle Museum. It's a must-see video for anyone interested in history! Also, in the spring, the cherry blossoms bloom beautifully, and you can enjoy the lit-up cherry blossoms at night. We also recommend riding on the sightseeing boat around the moat of Hikone Castle, sightseeing by rickshaw, and getting the seal stamp/castle stamp. There are also delicious restaurants at Hikone Castle's castle town where you can enjoy lunch. Hikone Castle- One of just 5 castles designated as national treasures, truly a beautiful and impressive structure. In you're in the area or interested in visiting the castle, don't forget to add it to your itinerary! 【Official Website】Hikone Castle - Hikone Tourism Guide : Public Interest Incorporated Association Hikone Castle Tourism Association https://visit.hikoneshi.com/en/ 【Tripadvisor】Hikone Castle https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g1023563-d1236815-Reviews- Hikone_Castle-Hikone_Shiga_Prefecture_Kinki.html

Introducing the Kyoto Imperial Palace! This is a video titled "20180407 Kyoto Imperial Palace Special Opening kyoto imperial palace Special Day（20180407 京都御所 特別公開 kyoto imperial palace Special Day）," produced by "osaka life impact," that shows the special opening of the Kyoto Imperial Palace. The Kyoto Imperial Palace, introduced in this video, is a valuable building that brings together traditional Japanese culture and the ancient architecture of the Japanese Imperial Court. It was used as the residence of the Emperor until the Meiji Restoration in 1869. Today, it is used as the Imperial Palace. The "Kyoto Imperial Palace Special Opening" is the perfect place to get an in-depth look at the fascinating buildings that give you a sense of Japan's deep history. Enjoy taking a walk through the Kyoto Imperial Palace by watching the video. What Kind of Place Is the Kyoto Imperial Palace? Source :YouTube screenshot The Kyoto Imperial Palace is a facility related to the Imperial family, located in Kamigyo ward, Kyoto city, Kyoto Prefecture, and is currently managed by the Kyoto Office of the Imperial Household Agency. It is a building derived from Todo-in Temple, and has been regarded as an Imperial Palace since Emperor Godaigo left Kyoto in 1331 and Emperor Kogon was crowned. The Imperial Palace was used for 550 years, through the reigns of Oda Nobunaga and Toyotomi Hideyoshi, all the way up to the relocation of the capital to Tokyo by the Emperor Meiji. Tours and Highlights of the Kyoto Imperial Palace Photo：Kyoto Imperial Palace, Shishinden One of the things you don't want to miss when visiting the Imperial Palace is the gates scattered around the area. The gates, such as Kenrei Gate, Shuhei Gate, Gishu Gate, Seisho Gate, Kougou Gate, and Empress Gate are all amazing architectural masterpieces. Be sure to check out buildings such as the Shishinden and the Imperial Throne, as well as places like,Seiryoden, Oninoma, Morotayu, Geisyun, Kogosho, Ongakumonsho, Empress Gojogo, Osannoma, Goryoko. Also, check out Saruga Tsuji, the demon gate. In addition to the Kemari garden, the courtyard garden, the pond garden, and the inner court gardens which can be seen at 4:51, you can enjoy the cherry blossoms in full bloom at and around Shin-Mikurumayose shown at 0:40 in the video. Don't forget to take pictures! There's some amazing places that will look great on your Instagram! Sightseeing Around the Kyoto Imperial Palace! Photo：Autumn leaves at Arashiyama Kyoto, dating back to the relocation of the Heian capital, is a popular spot visited by many tourists from both Japan and overseas. After visiting the Kyoto Imperial Palace, stop by the Munakata Shrine and Itsukushima Shrine in Gyoen and ask for your red seal! If you have time, we definitely recommend visiting the Arashiyama area, Gojo area, Nijo Castle, the Kyoto National Museum, and more. If you want to enjoy lunch at a cafe or buy souvenirs, we recommend visiting the Kawaramachi area. There's so many popular sightseeing spots in Kyoto that you probably won't be able to see everything in one day (unless you're running maybe). That being said, we recommend booking a hotel and staying overnight. There's plenty to see so you definitely won't regret it. Kyoto Video Tour Summary Photo：Kyoto Imperial Palace You can see the majesty of the Kyoto Imperial Palace, and all of its charms throughout the video, so take your time perusing the sights. The Kyoto Imperial Palace is normally closed to the public, but by filling out a visitors application you can reserve a visit. There are also public events during spring and autumn, so we recommend visiting Kyoto at this time. No reservation is required for the general public and no admission fee is required. A tour around the famous places in Kyoto will be held simultaneously with the opening of the Kyoto Imperial Palace, so think about participating if you're interested. ◆Introduction of Kyoto Imperial Palace facility◆ 【Address】3 Kyoto Gyoen, Kamigyo-ku, Kyoto-shi, Kyoto 602-0881 【Access】Immediately from Marutamachi Station or Imadegawa Station on the Karasuma Subway Line 【Entrance fee】None 【Hours】9:00 to 16:30 (* Please see the official website for details as times may vary by season) 【Closures】Mondays 【Parking】Available (charged) 【Official Website】Visiting the Imperial Household Agency: Facility Information: 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

What is Kyu-Iwasaki-tei Gardens? This video, titled "Kyu-Iwasaki-tei Gardens – Area Information｜Video Website｜Machi Log," introduces Kyu-Iwasaki-tei Gardens, a wooden, European-style building that was built more than 120 years ago in 1896 (year 29 of Meiji), for the founder of Mitsubishi, Hisaya Iwasaki. Due to the dissolution of the zaibatsu, as directed by SCAP after the war, the Iwasaki Family residence was requisitioned and they lost much of the buildings and garden; however it was later returned to the Japanese government. Presently, there are 3 buildings left, the Western-style building (main building), the billiard room, and the Japanese-style building. They are designated as important cultural properties. The building itself was designed by the Englishman, Josiah Conder. An authentic, wooden, Western-style 2 story building with a basement was very rare at the time and it is said to have eventually had a large influence on modern day Japanese housing. All of the Kyu-Iwasaki-tei Gardens is open to the public as a metropolitan garden, and there is also a café there so it's teeming with people during lunchtime or seasons in which you can see the cherry blossoms and autumn foliage. The elegant Western-style building is also used for filming many TV dramas and movies thanks to its beautiful appearance. The Highlights of Kyu-Iwasaki-tei Gardens Source :YouTube screenshot There are so many points of interest at Kyu-Iwasaki-tei Gardens that we couldn't possibly cover them in one go. The architecture of the semi-Western mansion representing the wealthy of the Meiji era (1868-1912) immediately after the opening of the country, is considered to be a very modern style even by present-day standards. When you enter the house, the decorations, including vines wrapping around the wooden columns, catch one's eyes immediately. This particular design is called Jacobian-style architecture and was very popular in 19th century England. This can be seen from 1:10 in the video. The wooden billiards room is designed in the style of a Swiss mountain hut, which was rare in Japan at that time. The Japanese-style building, which was used by Hisaya Iwasaki, was decorated with screen paintings by the great Japanese artist, Masakuni Hashimoto. The billiards room can be seen at 1:58, and the Japanese-style building can be seen at 2:33 in the video. Finally, the greatest highlight of Kyu-Iwasaki-tei Gardens is the rose garden that colors the entire lawn. In autumn, the Autumn Festival is held, and the scent of its roses fill the entire Kyu-Iwasaki-tei Gardens, captivating the many visitors. On the other hand, the serene Japanese-style garden has the look of a traditional Japanese garden, with garden stones, lanterns, and artificial miniature hills. At tea ceremonies, you can enjoy tea and Japanese confectioneries while enjoying the scenic nature of the seasons at the beautiful Kyu-Iwasaki-tei Gardens. The Tumultuous History of Kyu-Iwasaki-tei Gardens Source :YouTube screenshot Kyu-Iwasaki-tei Gardens is located at Ikenohata 1-chome, Taito-ku, Tokyo, where the residence of the Takada Domain was located in the Edo period (1603-1868). After the Meiji Restoration, due to the abolition of feudal domains and the establishment of prefectures in 1871, the Takada Domain was dissolved and it became the property of the former Maizuru clan governor, Sukeshige Makino. However, it was bought by Yataro Iwasaki who was part of a zaibatsu, and the 3rd generation head of that family, Hisaya Iwasaki, built Kyu-Iwasaki-tei. After the war, the zaibatsu were dissolved by SCAP, the building became government controlled, and was managed by the Tokyo Metropolitan Government. It is indeed a monument that has survived a tumultuous history to the present day. Summary of Kyu-Iwasaki-tei Gardens Photo：Kyu-Iwasaki-tei Gardens Kyu-Iwasaki-tei Gardens, the foundation of Japan's modern architecture, is currently undergoing restoration work on the lawn and is partly off-limits as of April 2020. Tours are still taking place; however, so why not visit Kyu-Iwasaki-tei Gardens and get a taste of Japanese history? Kyu-Iwasaki-tei Garden, a pillar of Japanese architectural history, is where Japan's modern architectural culture began. ◆Kyu-Iwasaki-tei Gardens|Facility Overview ◆ 【Address】1-3-45 Ikenohata, Taito Ward, Tokyo 110-0008 【Access】A 3-minute walk from Yushima Station on the Tokyo Metro Chiyoda Line (~10-minute walk from Shinobazu lake) walk from Shinobazu Pond） 【Admission Fee】General ¥400, Seniors over 65 ¥200, free for elementary school students and below and junior high school students who reside or attend school in Tokyo, and various discount rates such as group discounts 【Hours】9:00～16:30 【Closures】End of the Year, New Year’s Holiday 【Parking】Not available 【Telephone Number】03-3823-8340 【Official Website】Kyu-Iwasaki-tei Gardens｜Let’s go to the park！ https://www.tokyo-park.or.jp/park/format/index035.html 【Tripadvisor】Kyu-Iwasaki-tei Gardens https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g1066461-d321036-Reviews-Kyu_Iwasakitei_Teien-Taito_Tokyo_Tokyo_Prefecture_Kanto.html

Udo Shrine in Nichinan, Miyazaki Prefecture This video, titled "4K 鵜戸神宮 宮崎県 Udo Shrine Miyazaki, Kyushu JAPAN," was released by "Shiso Productions." Udo Shrine is a shrine located in Nichinan, Miyazaki Prefecture, in Japan's Kyushu region and was previously classified as a Kanpei Taisha (imperial shrine); however, in the present it is designated as a Beppyo Jinja (a shrine designated and tracked by the Jinja Honcho (Association of Shinto Shrines). As you can see from 7:04 in the video, the main shrine is enshrined in a rock cave (sea cave) on the cliffside facing the Hyuga-nada Sea (日向灘). In order to worship at the shrine, you need to go down the stone steps along the cliff, making it a rather rare shrine, as most shrines require you to walk up to them. In this article, we'll introduce Udo Shrine in Nichinan, Miyazaki Prefecture. A Look at Udo Shrine in Nichinan, Miyazaki Prefecture? The History of the Shrine Photo：Udo Shrine in Nichinan, Miyazaki Prefecture Udo Shrine is famous as a sacred place for worshipping the sea, and the rock cave where Udo Shrine is enshrined is said to be the place where Princess Toyotama built a birth hut to deliver the deity, Ugayafukiaezu. From that relation, the 6 pillar gods were enshrined here during the reign of Emperor Sujin under the name of "Rokusho Gongen" (roughly "the six manifestations of Buddha") and during the reign of Emperor Suiko, it is said that a shrine was built in the rock cave and named Udo Shrine. Sightseeing at Udo Shrine in Nichinan, Miyazaki Prefecture Photo：The petting rabbit at Udo Shrine, Miyazaki Prefecture ① Lucky Shimenawa (福注連縄) The shimenawa rope at the entrance of Udo Shrine is used to purify the body and remove any impurities. ② Petting Rabbit (撫でウサギ) It is said that by petting the rabbit associated with Udo Shrine, wishes for recovery from illness, good luck, and success will come true. ③ Shuinchō Seen at 10:48 in the video, this is the red stamp book that shows the characteristics of the shrine. We recommend getting one along with an omikuji to commemorate your trip. Sightseeing Around Udo Shrine in Nichinan, Miyazaki Prefecture Photo：Kameishi, a sacred stone at Udo Shrine, Miyazaki Prefecture The main shrine of Udo Shrine is built in a natural cave. Its charm lies also in the surrounding scenery. The magnificent view of the natural scenery, such as the blue sky and the azure sea combined with the vivid, scarlet-painted shrine gate and tower gate is, in a word, splendid. In addition, there's "Ochichi-Iwa," which looks like a woman's breast and is famous for praying for safe childbirth, and the so-called milk water dripping from it. There's also a sacred stone shaped like a turtle with an indent on its back, and it's said that if you're a man you throw an "undama" (lucky ball) with your left hand and if you're a woman, you throw it with your right hand, and if you manage to throw it into the indent perfectly it's said to make your wishes come true. There's also Haccho-zaka, an 800-meter long stone staircase that leads from the port of Fukigei to the gate of the shrine. It's the oldest stone stairway approach to a shrine and has strange rocks such as "Futahashira-iwa" and "Mifune-iwa." "Udo Senjojikikigan" on the south side of Udo, where Udo Shrine is enshrined, is another spot we highly recommend. It is a stratum (Neogene Miyazaki Formation) that was deposited from 1,000 years ago to 1 million years ago and is characterized by the repeated accumulation of hard sandstone layers and soft mudstone layers. Over the years, it has been exposed to the harsh waves and winds and rain of the Hyuga-nada Sea and has been eroded to its present appearance. The wavy rocks created in this way are also known as the "Devil's Washing Rock" or "Devil's Washboard" and have been designated a cultural property by Miyazaki Prefecture. The Values and Customs of Udo Shrine in Nichinan, Miyazaki Prefecture Photo：Ochichi-Iwa at Udo Shrine, Miyazaki Prefecture Udo Shrine also has two legendary boulders called "Ochichi-Iwa" and "Hikikiri-Iwa" and are said to have aided Princess Toyotama when she was breastfeeding her children. Both are places of worship for people who wish for safe childbirth and child rearing. At Udo Shrine, there is an event called Shanshan-Uma, which is a tradition of Miyazaki that was held from the middle of the Edo Period (1603-1868 AD) to the end of the Meiji period. On a steep and difficult road called Nanaura Nana Touge, the bride rides upon a horse with the groom taking the reins and heads for Udo Shrine. This custom has disappeared, but it is held as a sightseeing event to reproduce what it may have looked like at the time. Summary of Udo Shrine in Nichinan, Miyazaki Prefecture Photo：Udo Shrine in Nichinan, Miyazaki Prefecture In 2017, the Udozaki area became a nationally designated scenic spot called "Udo," and the locals refer to Udo Shrine as "Udo-san." Aside from being a beautiful scenic spot, it is also a popular power spot and Instagrammable tourist destination. You can enjoy various famous sightseeing spots, such as Udoyama Magaibutsu, Udoyama Haccho-zaka, Udoyama Magaibutsu and the Nichinan Coast just by strolling around the area. Shanshan Umadou Chu-uta Taikai is a singing event in which visitors compete in singing a traditional Japanese folk song. The event is held in March every year, so if you are thinking of sightseeing at Udo Shrine consider visiting during the event. 【Tripadvisor】Udo Shrine https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g1023424-d1238711-Reviews-Udo_Shrine-Nichinan_Miyazaki_Prefecture_Kyushu.html

Churenji Temple, Yamagata Prefecture – A Michelin-Starred Temple This is a video titled "Michelin Churenji" produced by yamagatakoho to promote Churenji Temple. Michelin Green Guide is a guidebook which introduces various tourist spots in Japan. Michelin is also well-known for its "star ranking" system. Source :YouTube screenshot This article introduces Churenji Temple in Yamagata, Japan. The old temple was built by Kukai. The premises are filled with many attractive spots and the temple serves as a popular tourist destination. Having a two-star rating on Michelin Green Guide, Churenji Temple is a must-visit spot if you're taking a trip to Yamagata. Enjoy the video showcasing the attractions of Churenji Temple recommended by Michelin. Instagrammable Spots at Churenji Temple, Yamagata Source :YouTube screenshot Churenji Temple in Yamagata was founded by Kukai in 825 AD and his apprentice Shinzen constructed Gongendo in 835 AD. The surrounding area has a lot of shrines and temples such as Dainichibou, Enryuji Temple (円立寺, Enryuji), and Kaikouji Temple (海向寺, Kaijouji), and there are many instagrammable places on the premises, such as the Shimekake Cherry Blossoms, and Waniguchi, Japan's largest metal Buddhist altar. Check out the video at 0:27 to see some of these locations. The elegant Mt. Yudono is filled with a rich natural landscape throughout all seasons and is the tourist spot that represents Yamagata. Many people gather here to collect the sacred red stamps and pray. Attractions at Churenji Temple in Yamagata – Sokushinbutsu Source :YouTube screenshot Churenji Temple in Mt. Yudono has many attractions. Rated two stars in the Michelin Green Guide, Sokushinbutsu is a must-see. Sokushinbutsu (living buddhas) refers to Buddhist priests mummified alive after 3,000 days of fasting. Churenji Temple is dedicated to Tetsumonkai Shonin who was mummified at the age of 62. In addition, six immortalized Buddha statues of former Shurenji priests are enshrined in Yamagata Prefecture, including Tetsuryukai Shonin in Nangakuji Temple (南岳寺, Nangakuji). This is one of the highest numbers in Japan, and the amulets that contain the blessings of the sokushinbutsu are very popular due to being blessed with spiritual power. Sokushinbutsu in Churenji Temple appears in the video at 1:38. Recommended Attractions at Churenji Temple, Yamagata – The Painted Ceiling Source :YouTube screenshot The ceiling of the main temple at Churenji is covered with paintings by notable artists, old and new, famous and unknown. The most renowned ones include "Hiten No Zu" (a drawing of heavenly beings in the skies) painted by Sekisai Murai, "Tenku No Tobira" (Heaven's Gate) and a drawing of dragons by an unknown artist. This is shown in the video at 0:39, and the paintings spread all over the ceiling are a masterpiece. You can see the impressive painting of dragons at 1:25. Summary of Churenji Temple in Yamagata The ancient Japanese temple has another face as the temple where the story of Gassan, a novel written by an Akutagawa-Prize winner Atsushi Mori, takes places. The novel was made into a film and awarded the grand prix at the Salerno International Film Festival. Thanks to the achievement, Churenji Temple and the Mt. Yudono area garnered international attention as tourist spots. You can see a huge rock with “Gassan” carved on it in the video at 0:18. This article introduces the amazing Churenji Temple which represents Japan and is also recognized by Michelin. You can also see the attractions mentioned in the article in the video. Please enjoy the attractive locations, full of Japanese history. Mt. Yudono Churenji Temple Information 【Address】92-1, Ooaminakadai, Tsuruoka City, Yamagata 997-0531 【Public transportation】45 minutes from Uetsu Main Line Tsuruoka Station by bus 【Entrance fee】Adult: 500 yen, under age 15: 400 yen, under age 12: 300 yen (*as of December 2019) 【Opening hour】May-October: 9 a.m.-5 p.m. November-April: 9 a.m.-4 p.m. 【Regular holiday】Open throughout the year 【Parking】Available 【Phone number】(+81) 0235-54-6536 【Tripadvisor】Churenji Temple https://www.tripadvisor.com/ShowUserReviews-g1023682-d1397255-r205050717-Churenji_Temple-Tsuruoka_Yamagata_Prefecture_Tohoku.html

Tokyo's popular sightseeing spot: Meiji Jingu This 4-minute long video, titled "Meiji-Jingu – Tokyo - 4K Ultra HD," was released by "Tokyo Street View – Japan The Beautiful." It is an introductory video of Meiji Jingu and introduces the highlights of the magnificent shrine. Meiji Jingu (Meiji Shrine) is a shrine located in the Yoyogi area of Tokyo's Shibuya ward (渋谷区代々木), which attracts many tourists from both inside and outside of Japan and is a spot you should definitely add to your itinerary when traveling in Tokyo. It is the most popular shrine in Japan for "hatsumode" (初詣, the first shrine visit of the year), with more visitors each year than any other shrine in Japan. It is also a popular spot for weddings and other celebrations, such as "Shichi-Go-San" (七五三). In the opening of the video, you can see the giant torii gate made from a 1,500 year old Japanese cypress tree. If you take a look at the view from beyond the torii gate, you'll see why this shrine was selected as one of the top 20 sightseeing spots in Japan by the Michelin Guide. Passing Through Meiji Jingu's Torii Gate Photo：Meiji Jingu, Tokyo The giant torii gate found at Meiji Jingu is the largest of its kind in Japan. Beyond the gate there is a small bridge and on the left hand side you can see many decorative sake barrels. Different brands have been gathered from all over Japan, and it makes for a very impressive display. Emperor Meiji was also known to enjoy drinking wine, and interestingly, many French wine barrels can also be found at the entrance to the shrine. Be sure to stay on the lookout for them when you visit. They can be seen at 0:33 in the video. After passing through the south gate (Minami Shinmon (南神門)) the main shrine will come into sight. From 2:21 in the video, you can see the famous tree known as Meoto Kusu (夫婦楠) which is believed to bring good luck in marriage, as well as many Ema boards. If you look at the wall, you will see many beautiful "kakizome" (書初め, the first calligraphy of the year). A Cafe in a Power Spot?! The History of Meiji Jingu's Inner Garden and Recommended Spots Photo：Irises in the Garden Meiji Jingu consists of the inner garden in Shibuya, which has a shrine and the shrine's grounds, and the outer garden in Shinjuku Ward, which has sports and cultural facilities. Meiji Jingu, was built on November 1st, 1920 in honor of the 122nd emperor of Japan, Emperor Meiji (明治天皇) and his wife Empress Shoken (昭憲皇太后). With a surface area equivalent to 15 Tokyo Domes, Inori no Mori (祈りの社) has been donated 100,000 trees from all over the country in an effort to increase the beautiful natural surroundings of the area. The area is scattered with spots you'll want to snap a picture of to post and share on social media! Another highlight of Meiji Jingu is its Imperial Garden (明治神宮御苑) which in June is covered with blossoming Japanese Irises. "Kiyomasa's Well" (清正の井戸) is a famous power spot inside the garden, and in recent years an increasing number of people are using the image as a wallpaper on their phones in the hope that it will bring them good luck. Other famous spots around Meiji Jingu include the turtle-shaped rock "Kameishi" (亀石) and the martial arts building "Shiseikan" (至誠館). If you're interested in learning more about the history of Meiji Jingu, we highly recommend visiting the adjacent Meiji Shrine Museum (明治神宮ミュージアム). For lunch, we recommend the delicious sandwiches served at Cafe Mori no Terrace (CAFÉ 杜のテラス). Meiji Jingu is open from sunrise to sunset, therefore the opening times vary depending on the time of year. Please check the official website for more information regarding hours. You can also find information on shrine etiquette and "Go-shuin" (御朱印) on the same website. Gingko Trees in Fall - Meiji Jingu's Outer Garden Photo：Jingu Gaien Ginkgo Avenue Meiji Jingu's outer garden features a variety of sports facilities, including a driving range, tennis court, and baseball field. Access to the area is great, and there's also a hotel parking lot in the vicinity. Many baseball competitions are held at Meiji Jingu Baseball Stadium, which is home to the Yakult Swallows, as well as the annual Jingu Gaien Fireworks Festival (神宮外苑花火大会). A spot we highly recommend in the outer garden area is the row of Gingko trees leading up to the Meiji Memorial Picture Gallery (聖徳記念絵画館). In November, just as the leaves are turning red, the whole area is lit up making it a great place to take a photo. Every year, more than 1.8 million people take part in the Jingu Gaien Ginkgo Festival (神宮外苑 いちょう祭り). Meiji Jingu Summary Photo：Meiji Jingu We hope you enjoyed this introductory video featuring the highlights of Meiji Jingu's inner and outer gardens. At 3:00 in the video, you can hear the sound of people visiting the shrine. Enjoy the sights, sounds, spiritual atmosphere of Meiji Jingu! 【Official Website】Meiji Jingu https://www.meijijingu.or.jp/en/ 【Tripadvisor】Meiji Jingu https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g1066456-d1373780-Reviews-Meiji_Jingu_Shrine-Shibuya_Tokyo_Tokyo_Prefecture_Kanto.html

Akasaka Palace This video, titled "Akasaka Palace: 108 Years After Its Foundation - A Walk Through the Main Building" (迎賓館赤坂離宮: 今年で創建108年 本館内を歩く), was produced by the Mainichi Shimbun in 2017. It shows footage of the interior of Akasaka Palace's main building, and the summit meetings of major countries that have been held at it. Akasaka Palace is a breathtaking, modern, western-style building, designated as a national treasure and a facility of the Cabinet Office. This article will introduce the facilities of Akasaka Palace, an official guest house of the Japanese government. The video shows the unique architecture of Akasaka Palace, which is a mixture of Western palace architecture and Japanese architecture. When you will see the real thing in a beautiful and solemn atmosphere, you'll be amazed. About Akasaka Palace Source :YouTube screenshot Akasaka Palace is Japan's only neo-baroque palace building, built in 1909 as the Crown Prince's Palace. It was built to promote civilization and national prestige during the Meiji period. After the war, it underwent major renovations and reopened as a state guesthouse in 1974. Akasaka Palace is located in Akasaka, Minato, Tokyo, and is a 7-minute walk from Yotsuya Station on the JR Chuo Line and Tokyo Metro Marunouchi Line. There is a paid parking lot in the vicinity. Akasaka Palace's Main Building is open to the public and can be visited without reservation (admission fee charged). You can also enjoy "afternoon tea" at the garden café in the front garden of Akasaka Palace, which consists of a three-tiered tray of sandwiches, scones, sweets, and tea. Those wishing to have afternoon tea, lunch, or tea at the garden café will need to pay a separate fee to visit the garden. Akasaka Palace's Main Building Source :YouTube screenshot At the beginning of the video, you can see the main building of Akasaka Palace. At 0:13 in the video, we enter the building from the front entrance and go up the central stairs. The main hall on the second floor is a gorgeous, gilded arched ceiling decorated with gold leaf and chandeliers. At 0:55 in the video, we see "Hagoromo no Ma," a room with a large mural on the ceiling depicting a passage from the Noh play "Hagoromo" (Robe of Heaven). The last general meeting of the 12th Summit of Developed Nations (Tokyo Summit) in 1986, was held in Hagoromo. This is shown at 1:19 in the video. Source :YouTube screenshot In 1993, Russian President Boris Yeltsin and former Prime Minister Morihiro Hosokawa held a summit meeting in "Sairan no Ma," which can be seen at 1:31 in the video, with its impressive reliefs of Japanese elements, including traditional armored warriors painted with gold leaf. In "Hanatori no Ma," there are cloisonne frames depicting flowers and birds. There's also "Higashi no Ma," "Nishi no Ma, "Asahi no Ma" as well; all of which are worth checking out. You will be amazed by the splendor of the museum, which is decorated with national treasures, including artifacts and paintings that will take your breath away. It takes about an hour to tour the main building, the main garden, and the front garden. Special exhibitions are occasionally held at the Akasaka Palace's gardens as well. Since the secretariat of the organizing committee for the 1964 Tokyo Olympics was established at Akasaka Palace, the Akasaka Palace Special Exhibition (History and Photographs) was also held at Akasaka Palace. Summary of Akasaka Palace Photo：Akasaka Palace "Akasaka Palace: 108 Years After Its Foundation - A Walk Through the Main Building," introduces the beautiful halls of Akasaka Palace. In addition to the main building of Akasaka Palace, there's also a Japanese style annex which requires an advance reservation to visit. For opening days and admission fees, please visit the official website. If you want to experience the glamorous stage of Japanese diplomacy, where kings and presidents from all over the world are welcomed, be sure to check out the video! Taking wedding photos in front of the Akasaka Palace is also quite popular. Some travel agencies offer tours to Akasaka Palace's gardens, so consider joining one if you're interested! ◆Guesthouse Akasaka Imperial Villa Facility Overview◆ 【Address】2-1-1 Moto-Akasaka, Minato-ku, Tokyo 107-0051, Japan 【Access】A 7-minute walk from the Akasaka exit of Yotsuya Station on the Chuo and Sobu Lines 【Admission fee】Adults 1,500 yen, junior and senior high school students 700 yen (as of April 2020) 【Hours】10：00～17：00 【Closures】Wednesdays 【Parking】There is a paid parking lot in the vicinity 【Phone number】03-3478-1111 【Official Website】Guest House Akasaka Palace | Cabinet Office https://www.geihinkan.go.jp/en/akasaka/