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Video article 6:12
Kendo - The Japanese Sport That Uses Bamboo Swords. Witness the Legacy of Japan's Samurai With This Traditional Martial Art!
Sports Traditional Culture History- 473 plays
- YouTube
The Traditional Japanese Martial Art “Kendo” This video is "Best of Kendo~Awesome~" produced by "NAGASHI." Kendo is one of Japan's traditional martial arts. Many Japanese people know about the style of Kendo. What's so fascinating about this sport though? Kendo is a one-on-one competition where players wear a kendo uniform, armor, and use bamboo swords called "shinai." Kendo and other traditional Japanese martial arts are about valuing respect. Swords are of course weapons, but it is the human mind that controls them. Winning a match, according to the rules, means winning with the swordsmanship you've refined. The swordsman stay focused until after the match, when they've bowed to one another. This is standard Kendo etiquette. Kendo is said to be a martial art that begins and ends with a bow. The beauty of this Japanese culture may be one of the attractions of Kendo. In the video, you can see this etiquette from 0:05 and 5:57 in the second half. I hope that these videos will show the excellence of Kendo and the spirit, and harmony among Kendo fighters through their matches and practice, and at the same time, convey the beauty of Japanese martial arts as a whole. The History of Kendo Photo:Kendo Nowadays, the sport has federations all over the world, and not only schoolchildren's tournaments, inter-scholastic athletics competitions, and national championships, but matches are held all over the world. With the increase in the number of competitors, kendo's technical population has grown to about 1.7 million, but it was originally created to practice swordsmanship. It is a traditional martial art that inherited the soul of the samurai, which is said to have already existed in the Heian period (794-1185 AD). Kendo, as a competitive sport, had its own set of dan rankings and rules and instruction manuals from the Edo period (1603- 1868 AD). Gradually, the style came closer and closer to the style we have today. However, even now, having gone from martial arts to competition, it's practitioners still train their mind, body, and they still maintain proper etiquette. The Gear Required for Kendo Photo:Kendo "Men" The traditional Japanese martial art kendo requires a few pieces of gear. ・防具 Armor ・剣道着 Kendo uniform ・竹刀 Bamboo sword (sometimes wooden swords are used for training) ・小手 Kote(padded gloves to protect the wrists and forearms) ・面 Men(a face mask) ・垂れ Tare(waist protector) ・袴 Hakama(pleated and divided skirt made in fine stripes) You can purchase this gear at kendo specialty stores and kendo shops. For a moment, at 0:14 in the video, you can see the image of the camera attached inside a face mask. You can feel what Kendo is like in this scene. Japanese traditional martial art kendo rules Photo:Referee Kendo is a sport that trains the mind and body. The format of the matches are one-on-one individual matches, but there is also a team competition where 1 winner is crowned. A match in Kendo is between two players until two points are scored, or the time runs out. (One game = Three match) There are 3 valid targets to strike in order to score a point ・Men (the face mask) ・Kote(the padded gloves to protect the wrists and forearms) ・Do (the breastplate) Also, when it comes to matches for college students or older, two-sword style is also possible. It is rare in Japan, but is often seen in overseas kendo matches. Miyamoto Musashi, one of the most popular, and said to be the most powerful swordsmen in the world, was also a master of the two swords. From 0:25, the video introduces a number of matches. Not only do bamboo swords clash, but sometimes competitors are violently struck, propelling them into the air. This is not unexpected however, as it is a combat sport. Summary of the Fascinating, Traditional Japanese Martial Art, Kendo The appeal of kendo, the traditional Japanese martial art, lies in the intensity of the matches. The dignified movements of these swordsmen are the result of daily rigorous training. There are rankings called "dan" in Kendo, but in order to receive a ranking, you must go through a rigorous certification test to obtain the title. The dojo where swordsmen practice everyday is packed with the lives of the swordsmen. Kendo is also said to be a lifelong sport. Please enjoy the video of the Kendo matches, that transcend both age and gender. 【Official Website】All Japan Kendo Federation https://www.kendo.or.jp/en/ -
Video article 1:56
17 Years Since Ichiro! Shohei Otani Talks About the Joy of Receiving the Major League Baseball Rookie of the Year Award!
Sports- 65 plays
- YouTube
Shohei Otani - MLB Rookie of the Year! This article will introduce Shohei Otani of the Los Angeles Angels, the 4th Japanese person to win the MLB Newcomer of the Year award. The video is an interview video titled "Shohei Otani I MOVE ME- Newcomer of the Year" (大谷翔平選手 I MOVE ME~新人賞受賞~). This video was made by popular sportswear maker ASICS. Shohei Ohtani is famous for his ability to be both a pitcher and a fielder at the same time. This is something that Shohei Ohtani has been doing since his days as a member of the Hokkaido Nippon-Ham Fighters. However, Shohei Ohtani's style of play wasn't the only thing that caught the attention of big league scouts. Already as a professional baseball player in Japan, he stood out as a pitcher, throwing the fastest pitch speed in Japan at 165 km/h and became the first NPB (Nippon Professional Baseball) player to win both the Best Nine Award and Best DH Award Shohei Ohtani won one of the top awards in 2018, the Rookie of the Year award, and it's a wonder he didn't win the Rookie of the Year award during his time in the NPB. Profile of Rookie of the Year - Shohei Ohtani Source :YouTube screenshot Let's take a look at the profile of Shohei Ohtani, a player with a well-proportioned body and facial features popular among women. ・ Height: 193 cm ・ Weight: ~95.3kg ・ Date of birth: July 5, 1994 (25 years old) ・ Blood type: B ・ Throws right/Hits left ・ Schooling: Hanamaki Higashi High School, Iwate Prefecture ・ History since high school baseball: Played as a cleanup hitter since his first year of high school. Since fall, he began to double as a pitcher and is called "Michinoku's Darvish." He pitches with a mighty 151 km/h (93 mph) fastball. He was discovered by the scout of a professional baseball team. Participated in a high school baseball tournament with select teams only, during his third (senior) year of high school. Hit a home run off rival pitcher Shintaro Fujinami. ・In 2013, he was drafted by the Hokkaido Nippon-Ham Fighters as the first overall pick. He made his professional debut in earnest. (He was not selected for the Rookie of the Year award that year because he was hit in the face by a ball and had to miss a game. ・In 2016, he became the first player in the NPB to win 10 games, hit 100 hits and hit 20 home runs, but fell short of the required number of innings pitched and missed out on his second consecutive best defensive rating. ・In 2017, he joined the MLB, signed with the Los Angeles Angels. ・In 2018, he became the fourth Japanese baseball player to win the Rookie of the Year award, joining the likes of Hideo Nomo, Kazuhiro Sasaki, and Ichiro. ・He is now a member of Instagram, although his profile is not public. He has more than 10,000 followers. MLB Rookie of the Year Award Source :YouTube screenshot In the major leagues, the Rookie of the Year Award is an award that attracts a lot of attention every year because it's an honor that can only be received once when the player is still a rookie. To win the award, players must have rookie status, which is defined as follows: ・If you're a pitcher, you must have thrown no more than 50 innings of baseball in the previous year's majors, and if you're a fielder, you must have had no more than 130 at-bats. ・The player who receives the highest number of votes from journalists belonging to the Baseball Writers' Association of America will be selected as the winner of the award. Therefore, the award is not limited to baseball players in their first year with the organization. Shohei Ohtani shares his thoughts about winning the award at 0:20 in the video. At 1:30, he mentions how the support of fans and those around him helped push him. Summary of Rookie of the Year, Shohei Otani Source :YouTube screenshot In 2019, Ohtani missed games due to injury and his yearly salary dropped to $700,000, but due to his hard work strength training paid off and he made a great comeback and was greeted with an "Ohtani Saan!" from the fans at the ballpark. The response from non-Japanese fans was also very positive, with many saying his recovery and dedication was admirable. However, he has never been one to let his popularity get in the way of his success, and he has been writing a "Goal Achievement Sheet" since his high school baseball days to complete a rigorous training program. It's expected that he will continue to excel well into the future. -
Video article 6:18
Fly Freely Through the Air With the Water Pressure of a Jet Ski! the "Flyboard" Is the Latest Marine Leisure Activity That Is All the Rage!
Sports- 105 plays
- YouTube
PR Video for Japan's Flyboard Championship! This is the promotion video called “Japan Flyboard Championship 2018(フライボード選手権2018 & フライボードガール~Flyboard Japan Championship~)” . As you can see from the video (0:07) , a new device called a "fly-board", that soars through the air using water pressure, is attracting a lot of attention as a new marine sport. Surprisingly, there's also a Flyboard World Championship. Flying through the air with all that freedom looks like a blast! You won't be able to keep your eyes off this new marine sport! What a Flyboard Looks Like Photo:Flyboard Flyboarding is a marine sport where a person flies from the surface of the water by using a hover-boardthat connects between a water-jet and a hose on the rider's feet. When water bursts forth from the exhaust of the personal watercraft, jets are sprayed from under the board through a hose, allowing the wearer to fly. The maximum flying height is about 9 meters (30 ft.). But it's possible to do a variety of flips and tricks with practice. You can see a lot of different tricks such as the back-flips in this video (0:23). The Japan Flyboard Championship! Source :YouTube screenshot The 2018 Japan Flyboard Championship was held at the Hachikenyahama (八軒家浜: Hachikenyahama) in Tenma, Osaka City Osaka in May, 2018. Entrants competed with each other to perform the most impressive tricks in a set time limit. As you can see in the video at 1:40, the performances of female competitors, called “Flyboard Girls”, also became famous in this championship. Besides the Japan Flyboard Championship, there's also the Flyboard World Championship as well. People from all over the world enjoy flyboarding. As you may know, flyboards are used for many shows such as the ones at Tokyo Disney Sea. Wanna Give It a Shot? Source :YouTube screenshot Recently, trial lessons have become available seaside or at lakes such as Lake Yamana ( 山中湖:Yamanakako) or Lake Kawaguchi (河口湖:Kawaguchiko). There is another activity similar to flyboarding where you can fly using a jet pack. This can be seen at 3:13 in the video. "Do I need to buy something in order to try it out?" Don’t worry about that, necessary items such as a wet suits or life jackets are available for rent. Don't worry about being a beginner either. Instructors give great guidance so there's nothing to worry about. The average lesson fee is about 6000 yen (~$55 USD). It's definitely worth trying at least once! Summary of the Japan Flyboard Championship Source :YouTube screenshot Flyboarding is not a major marine sport yet, but it has been attracting a lot of attention due to the nature of the sport's aerial freedom. If this article has you interested in flyboarding, be sure to give it a shot! -
Video article 5:16
The Powerful Training of Sumo! What Training Do the Wrestlers of the “Takadagawa Stable” Usually Do? Check out the Tradition of the National Sport That Has Been Handed Down Through Japan Since Ancient Times!
Sports- 123 plays
- YouTube
Sumo Wrestling at the Takadagawa Stable! This video titled “SUMO- A DAY in the Life at Takadagawa Stable” is a Sumo stable coverage video, created by “nippon.com”. Sumo, a Japanese national sport, is a sport that attracts attention not only in Japan, but also overseas. However, it is usually not known what kind of training the Sumo wrestlers do. Check out the video for a detailed introduction on the rigorous Sumo wrestling exercises. What Is Sumo Wrestling? a Look Into Its History and How It Is Performed Photo:Sumo Wrestlers Battling Sumo is a "Bushido" (Martial art) that originates in the ancient Shinto rituals of Japan, and the wrestlers battle while the “Gyoji” judges their play. "Honbasho" (an official professional sumo tournament) is an important performance where the Sumo wrestlers are ranked. There are also regional tours that are held in various areas such as Fukuoka (福岡, Fukuoka) and Nagoya (名古屋, Nagoya). Many Sumo fans come to the venue to get a glimpse of the powerful Sumo wrestling, that wrestlers from each Sumo stable, such as Yokozuna and Ozeki wrestlers, participate in. The Training of Takadagawa Stable Source :YouTube screenshot The stable covered in this video is Takadagawa Stable in Kiyosumi Shirakawa (清澄白河, Kiyosumi Shirakawa), Tokyo (東京, Tokyo), and it is known as the stable that Ryūden Gōshi belongs to. As shown at 0:15 in the video, the Sumo wrestlers begin their morning exercise with a warm-up at 7:00 O'clock. The first step is to get their bodies warm using movements such as “Shiko” (Sumo-style leg stomps), “Suriashi”, and “Teppo”. The “Oyakata” (master of the room) seen at 0:44 in the video, enters the training room together with Katsumi Takadagawa at 8:30. The wrestlers’ head-to-head exercises, introduced from 1:13 in the video, is the training of wrestlers from the lower ranks. As you see from 1:45 in the video, Katsumi Takadagawa, the master, also wears Sumo wear and coaches enthusiastically. Finally, “Makuuchi Rikishi” Sumo wrestlers rise to the ring and perform their head-to-head defensive exercises. Taishi Kagayaki, introduced at 1:49 in the video, is also one of the wrestlers in the Makuuchi division. Source :YouTube screenshot After the exercise finishes at 11:00, Lunch starts at 11:30. The meal is “Chanko Nabe” (a type of hot pot) introduced from 2:54 in the video. It is a traditional custom that the master (Oyakata) and “Sekitori” start eating first. The wrestlers don’t eat before the exercise introduced above, so their first meal is lunch. At 12:30 after the meal, Tokoyama (a hairdresser for Sumo wrestler) ties the Sekitori wrestler’s hair in a private room. Wrestlers other than Sekitori, who have finished cleaning after meal then have their free time. In addition to Tokoyama, which is featured in the video, Okami is also an important person who supports the Sumo Room. Summary of Exercises at Takadagawa Stable Source :YouTube screenshot The impressive and powerful performances seen at the main Sumo wrestling venues and local tours are the result of constant daily training. Depending on the Sumo stable, they may open the training to the public so you can visit, so be sure to check their official websites if you want to attend. If you want to support Japanese Sumo wrestling, think about joining a Sumo stable! -
Video article 3:54
Introducing the "Snowscoot," a Fusion of a Bike and Snowboard! This New Winter Sport Allows Even Beginners to Nimbly Glide Across the Snow!
Sports- 315 plays
- YouTube
The New Winter Sport Snowscoot This video, titled "スノースクート最高!/ Snowscoot Is Freaking Cool! #2," produced by "Kezuhomuzu," introduces the popular winter sport "Snowscoot." Snowscoot is a new and popular winter sport that is gaining attention as a snow sport and snow activity. Dubbed a "snow bike/bicycle sled," it's a BMX-bike frame mounted on 2 boards that are independent of one another, which allows for steering. The Popularity of the Snowscoot Source :YouTube screenshot One of the reasons the snowscoot is so popular is because anyone can enjoy it; from beginners, to pros, children and adults, it doesn't matter, just get on and go! Unlike a snowboard, you can easily balance thanks to the handlebars. It's also very easy to control, so even those who are new to it, can enjoy the snowscoot with peace of mind. Currently, over 80% of domestic ski resorts have them for rent. The fact that you can begin snowscooting without any gear on hand is also what makes this sport great. Also, you can customize the frame, board, and handle with parts that fit your preference and the idea of being able to make a snowscoot that is tailored to each individual has won the hearts of many riders. In 0:07 of the footage, you can see them performing maintenance and making adjustments to a snowscoot, and from 0:24, you can see them glide down the pure white slopes at tremendous speed. The History of the Snowscoot Photo:Snow slopes The snowscoot was made in the early 1990’s in France and it was commercialized as a new winter sport following skis and snowboards. Franck Petoud, a French BMX rider, designed the frame to be similar to that of a bicycle and then attached 2 boards to the front and back of it. Attempting to fly down the slopes with this, it became the prototype of the snowscoot, and the bicycle manufacturer SUNN announced it as an official product. Afterwards, the snowscoot underwent its own development, with France being at the center of it all, and it was imported to Japan around 1994. Due to its novel appearance and high level of safety, we have been able to use them at many ski resorts in Japan. Because the origins of this sport lay in BMX, you can enjoy acrobatic tricks, such as aerials that use jumps and carving turns like the ones in snowboarding. Snowmotos, which have a similar shape, were made in America. These have a seat boom (a seat that you can put between your legs), and there is a slight difference in how you ride it. Get Your Own Snowscoot! You can buy the Snow Scoot at sporting goods stores as well as online. Prices vary by product, but entry-level snowscoots, such as the ONE-D, are priced at around 109,000 yen (~$1,000 USD) before tax. If you are concerned about the price, you can also buy used. Clothes, boots and shoes are basically the same as for skiing and snowboarding, and it doesn't require any special equipment Summary of the New, Popular Winter Sport, "Snowscoot" Source :YouTube screenshot As introduced in this article, snowscoot is a easy winter sport that allows you to glide down the mountain with the familiar feeling of riding a bicycle. You can use the snowscoot at many ski resorts, such as the Aizu Kogen Takatsue Ski Area and the Shiga Kogen Sun Valley Ski Resort, so definitely try one out! 【Official Website】SNOWSCOOT® [Snowscoot] Official|JykK Japan Inc. https://snowscoot.co.jp/ -
Video article 3:34
Kusarigamajutsu - Learn About the Japanese Martial Art Used by Ninja and Samurai!
Sports Traditional Culture History- 428 plays
- YouTube
The Ancient Japanese Martial Art - Nito Shinkage Ryu Kusarigama Jutsu This video, titled "Nito Shinkage Ryu Kusarigama Jutsu," was created by "bushinjuku." It's an introductory video of "Nito Shinkage Ryu Kusarigama Jutsu," a traditional Japanese martial art that involves wielding dual "kusarigama," a chain and sickle weapon with a metal weight attached to the end of the chain. The footage of the techniques, which require a combination of spirit, skill, and strong physique, is truly captivating. In this article, we'll introduce the origins and history behind the ancient Japanese martial art Nito Shinkage Ryu Kusarigama Jutsu. About Nito Shinkage Ryu Kusarigama Jutsu Source :YouTube screenshot Nito Shinkage Ryu Kusarigama Jutsu was developed as a way for peasants to protect themselves using a sickle and chain as they could not carry swords. Nowadays, you can learn how the sickle and chain would have been used as a weapon by watching demonstrations performed by Nito Shinkage Ryu Kusarigama Jutsu practitioners. You can watch a typical demonstration in this video from 0:13. The martial art is gaining huge popularity worldwide. Nito Shinkage Ryu Kusarigama Jutsu is a martial art in which the practitioner utilizes a dual sickle-and-chain to take down an opponent. A heavy weight is attached to the end of the chain which aids in attacking and defending against an enemy. You can see how this is used from 0:58 in the video. The weight at the end of the chain can also be used to disarm an opponent. You can see how this is done at 1:46 in the video. From 3:10, you can also watch footage of the weight being used to smash plant pots from a distance, something that requires great skill and technique. Nito Shinkage Ryu Kusarigama Jutsu is steadily gaining popularity, and as well as demonstrations like the one in the video, there are also Nito Shinkage Ryu Kusarigama Jutsu competitions and mixed style competitions with Kendo practitioners being held. The Origin and History of Nito Shinkage Ryu Kusarigama Jutsu Source :YouTube screenshot Nito Shinkage Ryu Kusarigama Jutsu started as a form of self-defense, after that Ju-jitsu developed as a form of unarmed combat and following that, Kendo (a form of fencing with Japanese swords). Near the end of the Edo Period (1853-1868 AD) it was still a well-kept clan secret, with varying schools or styles (such as Otomeryu) only being passed down to other clan members. The Shinmen Nito Shinkage Ryu school (opened by Shinmen Bensuke) derived from a two-sword fighting style called Niten Ichi Ryu passed down by Miyamoto Musashi. By the time the third generation master Matsumura Yoshitaka appeared, the "Shinmen" part of the name had ceased to be used. Currently the fifth generation master Shimamura Shu passes down the ancient practice of Nito Shinkage Ryu Kusarigama Jutsu through his training. He is based in the city of Kochi, in Kochi Prefecture . Summary of Nito Shinkage Ryu Kusarigama Jutsu, a Traditional Japanese Martial Art The video "Nito Shinkage Ryu Kusarigama Jutsu," created by "bushinjuku," shows masters of the ancient martial art demonstrating a variety of techniques. The popularity of Japanese ninja and samurai has brought about a rise in the number of people overseas undertaking Japanese martial arts training such as Ju-jitsu, Kendo, and Karate to name just a few. There has also been an increase in the number of foreigners making visits to Japan to receive further training in the homeland of their martial art. The techniques performed in this video, which require a high level of skill and are the result of many years of training, are nothing short of impressive. This video is a must-watch for all Japanese martial arts fans! 【Official Website】Nihonkobudoukoukai, Nito Shinkage Ryu Kusarigama Jutsu http://www.nihonkobudokyoukai.org/martialarts/077/ -
Video article 3:35
Skateboarding Expected to Be in the 2020 Tokyo Olympics! Witness the Skills of Some of the World's Top Young Riders Contracted With Murasaki Sports!
Sports- 84 plays
- YouTube
Skateboarding in the 2020 Tokyo Olympics! This video is a session of TEAM RIDER, which consists of five street skaters, Yoshiaki Toeda, Ryuhei Kitazume, Yuto Hori, Daisuke Ikeda, and Sorayoshi Shirai. Skateboarding has become a hotly anticipated event as it becomes a part of the Tokyo 2020 Olympic Games. For some of you, skateboarding is what "kids do for fun." However, skateboarding is one of the most popular international extreme sports, along with surfing, snowboarding, bodyboarding, and BMX, which are all part of the Olympic Games. Check out the video to see some awesome tricks and learn just how fun skateboarding can be! The 2020 Tokyo Olympics' Skateboarding Competition Photo:Skateboarding Although the history of skateboarding varies, it is most likely that it was born around 1940 on the west coast of the United States. Until around 1990, it was enjoyed for fun, but it later took established itself as a sport and joined the Olympic games. There are two types of skateboarding: street and vert. Street skating is exactly what it sounds like- skating around streets and using the natural environment as your skatepark. At the Olympics, it's essentially a small course intended to mimic that natural environment, with staircases, handrails, and more setup for the competitors to do tricks with. Competitors are judged on the number of tricks the can do in the allotted time period, as well as on the complexity of their tricks. Photo:Skatepark On the other hand, vert skating, also known as park skating uses large half-pipes, quarter-pipes, and bowls that you would see at a skatepark. These allow the competitor to gain speed that allows them to grind for long distances, or to gain incredible height and do aerial tricks. It might not look that hard, but being so high in the air can actually be quite nerve wracking, and they don't always land their tricks either. Street skating might not be as fast paced, but the freestyle performances are just as impressive as their vert counterparts. The video shows a video of a street skateboard competition starting at 0:17. Skateboarders and Other World-Class Riders! Murasaki Sports Supporting the Youth! Source :YouTube screenshot Many athletes who have won numerous awards in world contests, including the designated players for the Tokyo Olympics, belong to Murasaki Sports. The skateboard team "TEAM RIDER," that can be seen in the video, includes Yoshiaki Toeda (0:15), Ryuhei Kitazume (1:14), Yuto Horiyume (2:21), Daisuke Ikeda (0:39), and Sorayoshi Shirai (1:42). Check out some of their awesome tricks in the video. There's also surfing, snowboarding, bodyboarding, and other athletes besides the five skaters mentioned above. The athletes are committed to improving their skills while practicing for competition on a daily basis. The Murasaki Sports website also features blog posts on the athletes' competitions as well as their private lives, so you can stay up to date with their daily activities. You too can support the players of Murasaki Sports! Summary of Murasaki Sports' Skateboarders Photo:Skateboarding We hope you were able to see some of the charms of skateboarding through this article. Be sure to look out for skateboarding at the 2020 Tokyo Olympics! The population and public interest in skateboarding isn't that high, but the community is great and they love helping beginner get into the sport! If you're into skateboarding, be sure to watch the video and check out some of their awesome tricks! 【Official Website】Skateboard - Murasaki Sports https://www.murasaki.co.jp/brand/ridelifemag-murasaki-sports/shop/honatsugi/354a9bd2-09ad-4aea-a98f-e4249637a13b -
Video article 11:32
Sumo Wrestling: A Martial Art and the Traditional National Sport of Japan Associated With Shinto. A Thrilling, World-Class Sport, Whose Spectacular Matches Fascinate Spectators!
Sports- 233 plays
- YouTube
A Look at Japan's Sumo Wrestling "Sumo Match - Tokyo - 相撲" is a video produced by TokyoStreetView – Japan The Beautiful, featuring Japan’s national sport! Sumo is a traditional martial art loved by the masses since old times in Japan. As the matches are held internationally, the sport has many overseas fans and is capturing the world’s attention. Matches between top wrestlers in the sumo rankings such as Yokozuna or Ozeki, are very spectacular and spectators can fully enjoy the thrilling matches. The video features footage of a match between sekitori (a sumo ranking) during the New Year’s tournament held in January 2017. Check out Japan’s spectacular sport - sumo wrestling! About Sumo – Japan’s National Sport Photo:Sumo Wrestling The first written record of sumo in Japan is said to be found in a Shinto document called Kojiki. Sumo matches used to be held as rituals and festivals dedicated to the deities and was mostly loved by nobles. After gaining popularity among the masses during the Edo period (1603 – 1868 AD), sumo has been enjoyed as a form of entertainment and sport in Japan. Today, matches are held both nationwide and internationally and many Japanese and foreigners enjoy it. The manners and conventions rooted in the rituals are passed down and given special importance even in modern sumo wrestling. The Excitement of Sumo Source :YouTube screenshot As the national sport of Japan, sumo wrestling starts from matches between low-ranking wrestlers, and matches between makuuchi (senior-grade wrestlers) are held in the evening. Honbasho refers to the official tournaments that decide the rankings and rewards of the wrestlers and six tournaments are organized throughout the year: the first tournament in January (Tokyo), the spring tournament in March (Osaka), the summer tournament in May (Tokyo), the Nagoya tournament in July, the autumn tournament in September (Tokyo), and finally, the Kyushu tournament in November (Fukuoka). Many Japanese people have probably watched the official tournaments aired on NHK (the national broadcaster in Japan). Some may have a stiff image of the national sport, but that's not true at all. Spectators can enter the venue at any time and watch the match in a relaxed manner while eating and drinking. Matches between senior-grade wrestlers are a must-watch and you'll surely get excited watching the spectacular matches between well-built wrestlers. Spectators get excited during matches, especially when a maegashira (the lowest grade of the highest ranking sumo class) wins against a yokozuna (the highest ranking sumo class) champion, as well as in deciding matches. Tickets and information of those exciting sumo wrestling matches are available on the official website of Nihon Sumo Kyokai. The Flow of a Sumo Match Source :YouTube screenshot As you can see at 0:22 in the video, wrestlers step into the ring with their colorful ornamental aprons before a match. As businesses can offer rewards to support wrestlers, the “reward banners” with the names of those businesses go around the ring as you can see at 3:14 in the video. With the company names printed on the program of the matches and publicly announced, those businesses play a similar role to sponsors in other sports. Before a match, a ritual called "chirichouzu" is held. You can see this at 3:08 and 7:52 in the video. This is a declaration "to fight fair and square without any weapons." Source :YouTube screenshot Next, the wrestler creates distance from the opponent, bends forward, and places his hands on the ground. This is called "shikiri" (仕切り). Then, with the signal of the referee, the wrestlers push each other. This is called "tachiai" (立合い). This series of events can be seen in the video. There are different means of attacking, such as thrusts, slapping, and body strikes. Kimarite (決まり手, winning move) refers to the move that the opponent is defeated by. Punching and grabbing the opponent's hair are prohibited moves in sumo. Summary of Japan’s National Sport Photo:Sumo "Sumo Match - Tokyo - 相撲," produced by TokyoStreetView – Japan The Beautiful, features conventions before matches and match footage of Japan’s national sport. From the cultural aspect of sumo that originates from Japanese Shinto to the spectacular matches, the video shows the sport at its best. Sumo is a fascinating martial art that a wide range of people including those who are interested in Japanese culture and martial arts lovers can enjoy! 【Official Website】Nihon Sumo Kyokai Official Website http://www.sumo.or.jp/En/ -
Video article 2:10
This Robot Is Sinking Shots Left and Right! Its Smooth, Light Movement Is Just Like That of a Professional Basketball Player!
Sports- 36 plays
- YouTube
The Basketball Robot, CUE4, in Action! This video, titled "CUE4, a Basketball Robot Powered by Cutting Edge AI Technology, Takes on the World's First 3-Point Contest! B.LEAGUE ALL-STAR 2020 IN HOKKAIDO" (最先端の AI テクノロジーを結集したバスケットボールロボットCUE4が世界初3ポイントコンテストに挑戦! B.LEAGUE ALL-STAR 2020 IN HOKKAIDO), released by "B.LEAGUE," introduces the latest basketball robot. The first thing you see when you play the video is the amazing sight of an AI basketball robot making a spectacular shot. Let's take a look at this basketball robot, which moves with the dexterity of a professional basketball player! The Basketball Robot, "CUE4" Source :YouTube screenshot CUE4, the basketball robot sinking shots left and right, was created by a group of Toyota volunteers, and is an AI technology robot filled with the wisdom of its development team. CUE4 is the fourth robot in the CUE series, and joined Alvark Tokyo, a professional basketball team in the B1 professional basketball league, in 2018 as a professional basketball player. CUE4 made a whopping 12 successful shots in the few minutes shown in the video. What Kind of Activities Is CUE4 Used For Source :YouTube screenshot This video shows footage from the B-League All-Star game held at the Hokkaido Prefectural Sports Center. CUE4, a basketball robot wearing a team uniform, makes a spectacular shot at the half-time show, as shown in the video. It uses an avant-garde system in which sensors determine the location of the hoop and artificial intelligence takes a series of shots. In the video, the robot grabs the balls lined up next to it and makes free throws with impressive form. You can also see it smoothly glide across the court at 0:39 in the video, exciting the fans! His fluid movements are like those of a real professional basketball player! CUE4, the first robot to play professional basketball, made headlines when he was loaned to the Levanga Hokkaido in 2020. CUE4's uniform number is "94". CUE4 Certified in the Guinness Book of World Records! Photo:Guinness CUE4 was registered in the Guinness Book of World Records under the category "most consecutive free throws made by a humanoid robot." The previous record was held by his predecessor, CUE3. In the future, the team aims to improve the power, speed and accuracy of CUE4 so that it may take on the 3-point contest. Summary of the Basketball Robot, CUE 4 Source :YouTube screenshot CUE4, featured in the video, is a professional basketball robot developed by a team at Toyota. The video, which is only about 2 minutes long, has been played over 1 million times in the months since its release. Check out the amazing skills of CUE4 as he sinks shots left and right! 【Official website】B.LEAGUE https://translation2.j-server.com/LUCBLEAGUE/ns/tl.cgi/https://www.bleague.jp/?SLANG=ja&TLANG=en&XMODE=0&XJSID=0 -
Video article 3:04
“Sitting Volleyball” Is Volleyball That Both Those With Disabilities, and Those Without, Can Enjoy Together! A Look at the Hot Sport to Be an Official Event at the Tokyo 2020 Paralympics!
Sports- 135 plays
- YouTube
Introducing Sitting Volleyball! An Official Event at the 2020 Tokyo Paralympics! This is an introductory video to women’s sitting volleyball (シッティングバレーボール, Sitting Volleyball). In sitting volleyball, athletes with disabilities, such as paralysis in their hands and/or legs, play volleyball while sitting on the floor. Sitting volleyball, which is an authorized event of the IPC (International Paralympic Committee), is an official event at the Tokyo 2020 Paralympics. A Look at Sitting Volleyball! Source :YouTube screenshot As seen from 0:06 in the video, Taito City's "Taito Riverside Sports Center," a tournament venue in Taito Ward that aims to promote sitting volleyball, hosted the international tournament "WORLD SUPER 6" in 2019. Japan, sitting at 10th place in the world rankings, managed to place 3rd, taking home the bronze medal. Yoshihisa Mano, the sitting volleyball women's national team coach in Japan, is shown at 1:00 in the video. In his video he talks about the amazing efforts of the athletes. Sitting Volleyball- An Introduction to Its History and Rules! Source :YouTube screenshot Sitting volleyball is a sport played while, you guessed it, sitting. It was established in the Netherlands, in 1956. In 1967, an international sitting volleyball match was started by the International Sports Organization for the Disabled (ISOD). In Japan, the Japan Sitting Volleyball Association was established in 1992, and since then, the numbers of players has only increased. Currently, there are active sitting volleyball teams in areas such as Chiba and Osaka. The Charm of Sitting Volleyball Source :YouTube screenshot The charm of sitting volleyball is that it's a sport that both those with and without disabilities can enjoy. The rules and equipment used are similar to that of six-player indoor volleyball, with players battling with serves, volleys, and spikes. However, the size of courts and the height of nets are different from that of regular volleyball, and the use of kicking is prohibited, so attack and defense are slightly different from that of regular volleyball. Summary of Sitting Volleyball Photo:Japan National Stadium At the Tokyo 2020 Paralympics, you can see many exciting events, such as men’s & women’s sitting volleyball, and other events like wheel chair basketball. Unfortunately, the Olympics has been postponed to 2021, but that's all the more time to learn about new sports, their top athletes, and highlights. Are you looking forward to the Tokyo 2020 Paralympics? 【Official Website】Sitting Volleyball – JPVA Japan Para-Volleyball Association http://www.jsva.info/contents/spoting_events/sitting.html -
Video article 3:28
The Blind Soccer World Grand Prix in Japan! A Glimpse at the Popular Sport That's Been Chosen as an Official Sport of the 2020 Paralympic Games in Tokyo!
Sports- 64 plays
- YouTube
The Blind Soccer World Grand Prix "[Highlights] Colombia vs Japan – IBSA Blind Football World Grand Prix 2019," created by "Blind Football," introduces the World Grand Prix of blind soccer, held in Japan in 2019. Blind soccer, known as "soccer without sight," is a sport where players wear blindfolds and strive to score a goal with a ball that makes sounds, as well as their own voices to communicate. It's a bit different than regular soccer, but just as interesting. In this article, we’ll introduce the appeal of blind soccer alongside the video. Blind Soccer - History and Rules Photo:Soccer Blind soccer is a 5 member soccer match designed for visually impaired athletes. During the matches players wear blindfolds and head gear to protect their faces. The sport was established in the early 1980s. Blind soccer is played in accordance with a modified version of the futsal rules set by FIFA. The sport is managed by the Japan Blind Football Association (JBFA). Blind soccer is generally played by players with visual impairment at the level of complete loss of sight. They play by discerning where the ball is through a bell that rings inside the ball as it moves, and through voice communication. There is a caller (guide) behind the goals who gives the distance and the angle to the goal. The only exception to the blind players is the keeper who has full sight. Each game consists of 20-minute halves. When charging for the ball to defend or going to the sideline for a ball, players shout "Voy!" to prevent collisions. The Blind Soccer World Grand Prix in Japan Source :YouTube screenshot The Blind Soccer World Grand Prix 2019 was an official, international blind soccer competition held in Japan. The International Blind Sports Federation hosted the event and the venue was Shinagawa City Tennozu Park (品川区立天王洲公園, Shinagawakuritsu Tennozukoen), Tokyo Metropolis (東京都, Tokyoto). Blind soccer has been selected as an official sport of the 2020 Tokyo Paralympics Games. The World Grand Prix 2019, shown in the video, featured representatives from eight countries around the world. The Japan National Blind Soccer Team fought hard, beat out Colombia and finishing in 4th place. In the qualifying round, Japan managed to beat the world No. 4 ranked team, Spain, the winner of the tournament, and other strong teams. In the game against Colombia in the video, Japan conceded the first goal of the match at 0:48, but managed to tie it up at 1:14, and turn the tables just before the end of the game at 2:48. Summary of the Blind Soccer World Grand Prix Source :YouTube screenshot ‘"[Highlights] Colombia vs Japan – IBSA Blind Football World Grand Prix 2019," created by "Blind Football," is a video that shows footage of the Blind Soccer World Grand Prix. You can watch the heated match between Japan and Colombia in the video. The video is a fascinating look at blind soccer and its fierce athletes, so be sure to check it out! 【Official Website】Japan Blind Football Association|Blind Soccer http://www.en-wgp-blindsoccer.com/ -
Video article 6:27
Fans From All Over Japan Are Glued to the Beautiful Performance of Yuzuru Hanyu! Be Amazed by the Outstanding Performance of the Young Pro Figure Skater Who Received the People’s Honour Award!
Sports- 233 plays
- YouTube
Introducing Yuzuru Hanyu! This time, we will introduce a video titled "All Japan Figure Skating Championship 2019 <Men's Short 1st place, Yuzuru Hanyu / Performance + Interview>"(全日本フィギュアスケート選手権2019<男子ショート第1位・羽生結弦/演技+インタビュー>)" by Fuji TV's official sports channel. The 2019 All Japan Figure Skating Championship featured in this video was held at the National Yoyogi Stadium No. 1 Gymnasium in Shibuya ward, Tokyo in the Kanto region for four days from December 19 to 23, in 2019. This tournament was the final round of the World Championship in 2020, and attracted the attention of many figure skating fans. Featured in the video is the popular figure skater Yuzuru Hanyu. His brilliant performance has attracted many fans. In the video, you can watch the boys' short performance from 0:39. What Kind of Competition Is the Figure Skating Introduced in the Video? Photo:Figure skating In figure skating, skaters competes not for speed but based on the beauty of their performance. The techniques include jumps, spins, step sequences, and spirals, including triple-axels and quad-rotation jumps. Points are determined according to the difficulty of the moves. The results of the boy's shorts of the 2019 All Japan Figure Skating Championship featured in the video, were 1st place / 110.72 points Yuzuru Hanyu, 2nd place / 105.71 points Shoma Uno. What Kind of Person Is Yuzuru Hanyu? Source :YouTube screenshot Yuzuru Hanyu is a popular figure skater from Miyagi and is affiliated with the Japanese airline ANA. His nickname is "Yuzu". Born in 1994, he is 172 cm tall (5.6 ft.) and currently enrolled at Waseda University as of January 2020. He has won two consecutive gold medals in the Sochi and Pyeongchang Olympics (Winter Olympics). He was awarded for his high scoring performance every time, and in 2018 he was the youngest national laureate at the age of 23. When Yuzuru Hanyu, dresses in a gorgeous design costume and appears in the skating rink, loud cheers ring out through the stadium, and after the performance, it's common that he will receive a lot of Winnie the Pooh stuffed animals that he loves. At the 2019 All Japan Figure Skating Championship, throwing of presents after the competition was prohibited, and it was a topic of hot debate at the time. In the video, you can see a Winnie the Pooh stuffed animal with the coach before the performance. You can also watch the interview after the end of the performance with the audience's cheering and loud applause from 4:28. He talks about his enthusiasm for free performance two days later. The History of Japanese Figure Skating and Famous Skaters! Photo:Figure skating The history of the figure skating world in Japan has been supported by skaters who perform well, such as Midori Ito and Shizuka Arakawa, as well as Miki Ando, Mao Asada, Daisuke Takahashi and Nobunari Oda. Currently, skaters such as Hanyu Yuzuru, Uno Shoma and Sato Shun are still active. If you go to the skating rink to watch the figure skating tournament, you can see various performances such as single skating, pair skating and ice dancing. Summary of the Performance and Interview Video of Yuzuru Hanyu Source :YouTube screenshot In the men's Free Competition that took place after the short, which you can see in this video, Shoma Uno who was in first place, managed to widen the gap between himself and Yuzuru Hanyu, and Yuzuru managed to place second. Yuzuru Hanyu's performance is very supple and beautiful. It's hard to take your eyes off of it. Be sure to take a closer look at the video to enjoy the charm of figure skating. -
Video article 3:45
The Smiles of the People Who Touched the Torch Are Radiant! the Flame That Will Illuminate the 2020 Tokyo Olympics Will Pass Through the Hands of Many People and Light a Bright Path Towards Recovery From the 2011 Earthquake!
Sports- 22 plays
- YouTube
Tokyo Olympic Torch Relay 2020 The 2020 Tokyo Olympics is to be held soon! The biggest highlight of the Olympics opening ceremony is the torch relay —but do you know when and how the torch is going to reach the New National Stadium, where the Olympics will be held? The torch relay carries the hopes and dreams of not only the torchbearers, but of all the people around the globe. The video we'll introduce this time is “Tokyo Olympic Torch Relay 2020 Concept Movie(東京2020オリンピック聖火リレー コンセプト映像)” created by “Tokyo 2020”. This article will introduce the history, route, schedule and meaning behind the Relay Torch alongside the video. The Route and Schedule of the Tokyo Olympic Torch Relay 2020 Source :YouTube screenshot The torch of the Tokyo Olympic Torch Relay 2020 will be passed on by 10,000 torchbearers chosen from applicants all across Japan and handed to the final torchbearer at the Olympic Opening Ceremony held at the Olympic Stadium (National Stadium) on Friday, July 24th, 2020. Then, the Olympic Cauldron will be lit at the Lighting Ceremony. After that, the torch will be passed on from the Olympics to the Paralympics. The 2020 Tokyo Olympic “Flame of Recovery” Exhibition will be held in March 2020 in the order of Iwate Prefecture (岩手県, Iwateken), Fukushima Prefecture (福島県, Fukushimaken), and then lastly Ibaraki Prefecture (茨城県, Ibarakiken). Please check the Olympic Torch Relay Schedule Official Website for more details on the schedule and map of the relay. What is the Torch Relay? What are the Flame Lighting and Torch Handover ceremonies? Photo:Torch Relay The Torch Relay begins with the Flame Lighting Ceremony, where the rays of the sun are collected to kindle the flame at Olympia, the birthplace of the Ancient Olympic Games. After that, the Torch Handover Ceremony will be held in Athens, the heart of Greece, and will be passed on to this year’s host, Japan. The flame will go on a Torch Relay across Greece, then be sent by airmail to a Self Defense Force base in Miyagi Prefecture (宮城県, Miyagiken). From there, the flame will first pass through the Tohoku Region (東北地方, Tohokuchiho) and then all across Japan, to finally arrive at Tokyo after passing through Saitama Prefecture (埼玉県, Saitamaken) and Kanagawa Prefecture (神奈川県, Kanagawaken). “Hope Lights Our Way” Source :YouTube screenshot You can observe the reactions of the people who held the torch that will actually be used in the relay from 0:49 in the video. You can see the joyful expressions of people all across Japan! Some ask “Is this real?”, some exclaim “Wow!”, and others pretend to run the Torch Relay holding the torch. Many Celebrities and Comedians Will Take Part in the Tokyo Olympic Torch Relay 2020 Source :YouTube screenshot As you can see in the video, in order to make the Tokyo Olympic Torch Relay 2020 as exciting as possible, Olympic Judo Gold Medalist Tadahiro Nomura (1:10 in the video), Paralympian Aki Taguchi (3:06 in the video), popular actress Satomi Ishihara (3:15 in the video), and comedian Sandwich Man (2:45 in the video) are the official ambassadors and will participate in events held by the Tokyo Organizing Committee of the Olympic and Paralympic Games to get everyone in the Olympic spirit. Although it isn’t mentioned in the video, in addition, actress Haruka Ayase and actor Masaki Suda are to participate in the Torch Relay as torchbearers. Summary of the Tokyo Olympic Torch Relay 2020 The video is edited in a way where the smiles of the people who touched the torch that will be used in the Tokyo Olympic Torch Relay 2020 are passed on like a relay. It's funny how the official ambassadors sometimes appear among ordinary people in the video. The flame of the Tokyo Olympic Torch Relay 2020, as the Flame of Recovery, will illuminate the Olympics, Paralympics, and all countries that participate. 【Official Website】Tokyo Olympic Torch Relay 2020 – Tokyo 2020 https://tokyo2020.org/en/ 【Official Website】JAPAN SPORTS COUNCIL https://www.jpnsport.go.jp/corp/english/tabid/382/Default.aspx -
Video article 1:39
A Clash of Wheelchairs! The Excitement of Wheelchair Rugby and Japan's Dominating Performances in the Popular Paralympic Sport!
Sports- 81 plays
- YouTube
Wheelchair Rugby: Video Introduction to the Paralympic Sport The video “Wheelchair Rugby ‘PR MOVIE’(Wheelchair Rugby ウィルチェアーラグビー "PR MOVIE")” created by “The Nippon Foundation Paralympic Support Center” introduces the Paralympic game: wheelchair rugby. Wheelchair rugby is the only game where wheelchairs are allowed to crash against each other, leading to fast paced, dynamic matches, which makes it an indispensable addition to the Paralympics. This article will explain the thrill of wheelchair rugby, with the help of the video. Wheelchair Rugby: A Paralympic Sport Photo:wheelchair rugby Wheelchair rugby, is a chance for those with impaired movement to enjoy the popular sport. It was created in Canada in 1977 for paraplegic athletes, and is a popular sport in Europe. Since it is for impaired athletes, and because of the clashes between wheelchairs, it is sometimes referred to as “quad rugby” or “murder ball". One of the most distinctive features of wheelchair rugby, is the rule that allows for tackling between wheelchairs. This leads to violent bodily contact just like in the original game. You can see many plays like this from 0:31 in the video. Big crashing sounds ring out through the venue. It was chosen as an official Paralympic game in the 2020 Sydney Paralympics, and has continued to gain recognition throughout the world. As seen in the video, the ball used in wheelchair rugby is round; different from the oval ball used in normal rugby. It was developed based on a size 5 volleyball. During the game, players advance up the field with the ball on their laps. Those without legs use a wheelchair called a Rug car which has a special ball rest installed on it. Japan's National Wheelchair Rugby Team Source :YouTube screenshot Japan's national wheelchair rugby team took home bronze at the 2016 Rio Paralympics, and at the World Championship in 2018, they won gold, placing them at No. 1 in the world. During the 2019 Rugby World cup in Japan, the “World Wheelchair Rugby Challenge 2019” was held among the 8 strongest countries for 5 days at the Tokyo Metropolitan Gymnasium. As predicted by the IWRF (International Wheelchair Rugby Federation) world rankings, the games were fierce and Japan managed to place 3rd. By the 2015 Asia-Oceania Championship, Japan had won medals at 7 out of the 8 games, cementing their place as Asia's representative team. The Japan national wheelchair rugby team achieved great things during their international matches, and placed 3rd in the overall world rankings. They have been doing a great job! Two popular players are Kurahashi Kae, and Sugano Motoki. Wheelchair Rugby - The Rules Source :YouTube screenshot A wheelchair rugby game is 4 on 4 and uses specially designed wheelchairs. Players advance by dribbling or passing the ball. Crossing over the opponents try line at the ends of the field will score points. Like wheelchair basketball, there is a rule for choosing players. Each team has a certain amount of points. The points are based on each individual player's level of disability. The total points need to be within the allotted amount. For the field, a basketball court is used, and offense and defense is fast paced and thrilling to watch. Wheelchair Rugby: A Paralympic Sport Photo:wheelchair rugby The video “Wheelchair Rugby ‘PR MOVIE’” by “The Nippon Foundation Paralympic Support Center” introduces the fire of wheelchair rugby, a sport for disabled. If you're familiar with, and enjoy watching rugby, we recommend giving wheelchair rugby a watch! It is an official Paralympic game that will be held in the Tokyo Paralympics as well, so please check it out. -
Video article 1:32
The Tokyo Marathon Is a Fierce Competition! A Look at the Highlights of This Global Event, Which Takes Runners Through a Number of Popular Tourist Attractions!
Sports Festivals & Events- 47 plays
- YouTube
The Tokyo Marathon and Japan's Men's Olympic Team! This time we'll look at the video, "[Fuji T.V. Official] Tokyo Marathon 2020 Live From 9:00 A.M. on Sunday, March 1, 2020!!" (【フジテレビ公式】東京マラソン2020<コース紹介>2020年3月1日(日)午前9時00分から生中継!!), which introduces the course of the Tokyo Marathon held in 2020. The Tokyo Marathon is a competition first held in 2007. In 2013, it was designated as a World Marathon Majors competition. It is one of the 6 major marathons in the world, along with Boston, London, Berlin, Chicago, and New York. Photo:Marathon The Tokyo Marathon is more than just an invitational sports event for invited runners and the general public; it is also an important event that serves as a qualifying event for major international sporting events, such as the Olympics and the World Athletics Championships. In Japan, the Fukuoka International Marathon and the Lake Biwa Mainichi Marathon also serve as selection events to select athletes that will compete in international competitions. However, in 2020, having been designated as a World Athletics Platinum Label Road Race, it became Asia’s highest level marathon event, and in 2019, 38,000 runners participated in the event. The Tokyo Marathon was awarded Gold Label certification by the IAAF's rating system in 2010, making it one of the largest civic engagement races, on par with New York City. The 2020 men's marathon was touted as a one-on-one race between Suguru Osako and Yuta Shitara. However, in the end, Suguru Osako finished 4th, making him the highest placing Japanese runner and confirming his participation in the Tokyo 2020 Olympics. The Tokyo Marathon Course Source :YouTube screenshot The course of the Tokyo Marathon has been drastically changed since its predecessor, the Tokyo International Marathon. The main feature of the course is that it is a flat, high-speed course with few ups and downs, with runners running on public roads in the center of the city. This video gives an overview of the course and we'll go over it below. ・[Video 0:23] A five meter stretch starting from the front of the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building in Shinjuku with an elevation difference of 35 meters. ・[Video 0:33] A section along Sotobori-dori and Chuo-dori to reach the 10km point in Nihonbashi. ・[Video 0:40] Running through Edo-dori, runners will pass the 15km mark of Asakusa/Kaminarimon ・[Video 0:48] The 20 km mark of Monnakacho- the first turnaround point. ・[Video 0:59] The decisive moment is the 30 km mark in Ginza. At this point, the pacemaker will drop out of the race and the wheeling and the tactics begin. ・[Video 1:10] The 35 km mark at Takanawa is the last turnaround point, and the strongest runners will use their last bits of energy for bursts of speed. Every year, it's an incredibly close competition. ・[Video 1:21] The finish line of the course is in front of Tokyo station. The front runner will break through the finish line tape while being greeted by a large crowd and volunteer staff. The Tokyo Marathon is popular among international runners because, with the exception of the starting point, it is a flat course that allows for record breaking, and also takes in the sights of Tokyo from start to finish. For this reason, the number of applicants has been increasing every year, and for the 13th marathon, the general runners’ odds of being selected to run in the race was less than a 1 in 12 chance thus making it very difficult to enter. There are three race categories: the Men's and Women's Marathon, the Wheelchair Marathon, and the Junior and Youth Marathon, with the wheelchair marathon starting five minutes before the other events. Summary of the Tokyo Marathon Course Photo:Marathon Due to the outbreak of the novel coronavirus, the Tokyo Marathon Foundation considered cancelling the 2020 marathon, but decided to hold only it with only elite athletes being considered for selection, with participation by the general public cancelled. The 2020 Tokyo Marathon was controversial, because although an entry fee is paid prior to the race, the terms state that no refunds would be given in the event of cancellation. Because the Tokyo Marathon is a race with traffic restrictions on public roads, there are fears that the date of the race could affect the capital's logistics infrastructure. However, because it is a top-level marathon race even by world standards, it has a positive economic effect, and the event continues to grow yearly. We're looking forward to Tokyo Marathons of the future! 【Official Website】Home Page|Tokyo Marathon 2020 https://www.marathon.tokyo/en/ 【Tripadvisor】Tokyo Marathon https://www.tripadvisor.com/ShowUserReviews-g14133673-d8820386-r441644983-Tokyo_Marathon-Nishishinjuku_Shinjuku_Tokyo_Tokyo_Prefecture_Kanto.html -
Video article 2:06
Thrilling Downhill Bike Racing at a Historical Sacred Shrine! Don't Miss the Heart Thumping, High-Speed Race!
Sports- 57 plays
- YouTube
Downhill Mountain Bike Racing This video is called [Downhill Mountain Bike Racing at a shrine in Kyoto](【ダウンヒル】大迫力!京都の神社でマウンテンバイク(MTB)のダウンヒルレース), and it was made by Gadgetwear. Watch and enjoy the thrilling white-knuckle race down the Shrine stairs. In this article, we'll introduce a video that shows the marvel of Downhill Mountain Bike Racing. This Downhill Mountain Bike Race Runs Down the Stairs at Intense Speed! Source :YouTube screenshot Downhill Mountain Bike Racing is bike racing competition where riders go down steep mountains. The Redbull Holly Ride competition was held at a historical sacred shrine in 2014. The competition was held at Iwashimizu Hachimangu Shrine in Yawata city, Kyoto. Bikers raced down the shrine stairs on downhill mountain bikes. You can see the racing style from 0:06 in the video. As you can see in the video, a crowd has gathered at the finish to watch this thrilling race on the road of Iwashimizu Hachimangu Shrine. Downhill Mountain Bike Racing Source :YouTube screenshot The total length of the race at Iwashimizu Hachimangu Shrine is about 800m and the height difference is about 100m from top to bottom. The maximum decline is about 22 degrees and the stairs have 396 steps in total. As you can see at 0:50 and 1:17 in the video, it shows how the course makes use of the landscape, aside from jumps. A qualification match will be held with a time trial and those who win can move on to the final tournament. The final tournament will be held in 4 cross-style which means 4 riders race at the same time. A downhill race is not at all like a climbing course in concept, It is a bike race that goes down through the mountains and wilderness from high places. Advanced riders can reach a speed of about 60 km per hour. This takes a lot of skill (and courage). Wearing a full face helmet and protector is mandatory for riders since there are some spots on the trail ways where it is easy to lose balance and crash. There is a scene where two bikers go off the course before the curve at 1:30 in the video. Racing Bikes Photo:Mountain Bike Dedicated mountain bikes are used in intense races such as downhill races or cross-country. A mountain bike has specialized parts such as tires, a frame and brakes to go fast, climb, ride on rough roads, and withstand high jumps. An all-mountain is a bike that works for uphill and downhill so it is good even for a ride on rocky mountains. Manufacturers such as Trek and Giant sell various kinds of models that are great for mountain bike racing. Tire sizes for mountain bikes are usually 27.5 inches, and the suspension and brake technology has greatly improved over the years. Of course, there are other more affordable models that are good for beginners and daily use as well. Downhill Mountain Bike Racing Summary Source :YouTube screenshot This video clip, made by Gadgetwear, shows a form of bike racing called Downhill Mountain Bike Racing at a shrine in Kyoto. It is truly impressive to see these riders fly down these stairs. You can see gut wrenching thrills in every minute of the video. After watching this video, you'll surely be hooked on Downhill Racing. Just be sure to wear a helmet! 【Official Website】Red Bull Holy Ride 2017 https://www.redbull.com/jp-ja/events/red-bull-holy-ride-2017 -
Video article 4:30
Turn up the Heat With the Professional Men’s Basketball’s B.LEAGUE! Play After Exceptional Play, This Opening Game Is Sure to Captivate!
Sports- 38 plays
- YouTube
The Opening Game of the Professional Men’s Basketball's “B. League” This video, “B.LEAGUE STARTING GAME Official After MOVIE”, summarizes the B.LEAGUE's opening game. The B.LEAGUE is a top professional men’s basketball league managed by the Japan Professional Basketball League (JPBL). It was preceded by the BJ League and the National Basketball League, and was formed in September 2016. The league’s three major events are the B.LEAGUE regular season (B.LEAGUE Championship), B.LEAGUE EARLY CUP, and the All-Japan Basketball Championship. The B.LEAGUE's Opening Game Source :YouTube screenshot In the 2016-17 B.LEAGUE opening game, the theme song was “Take-A-Shot! feat.PKCZ”, newly released by the two-member dance and vocal duo ShuuKaRen. The song was performed on the court, with the entire floor covered in LED lights. This can be seen from 1:01 in the video. As seen in the video, the opening game attracted a huge number of fans, showing the popularity of professional men’s basketball. In the video, you can see crazy plays such as pro players dunking the ball. The fans of professional men’s basketball are known as “Boosters”, and play an important role in increasing the energy and hype of the game. In the video, you can see "Boosters" crowding the stands. What Is the B.LEAGUE? Source :YouTube screenshot The B.LEAGUE is a professional men’s basketball league, under the "Japan Basketball League Institute", comprised of the B1 Division, B2 Division, and B3 Division. B1 and B2 are comprised of 18 teams, while B3 is comprised of 12 teams, combining to form a total of 48 club teams. Including Sapporo, Tokyo, Kyoto, and more – the club teams are located all over Japan. The B1 and B2 teams are further divided into three conferences of six clubs each and take part in the regular season. The top eight teams qualify for the play-offs. The team that wins this tournament-style championship is crowned the B.LEAGUE champion. Teams in each league are constantly fighting for their spots, keeping you glued to the action. Source :YouTube screenshot Furthermore, once a year, the “All-Star Game” is held, where 24 specially chosen players are separated into teams and matches are held. Players that aren't contracted with any team are known as free agents, and their names are released on the free agent roster. The B.LEAGUE also has a wide variety of goods for sale. Putting on some limited-edition goods is sure to bring the hype and help you root for your favorite team! An online shop is also available, so do make sure to check it out as well. The B.LEAGUE's Elite Source :YouTube screenshot How much do the B.LEAGUE’s top players make? The players’ yearly income is not released to the public. However, annual salary and per-game earnings change according to player performance and stats. The highest yearly income of a Japanese player is said to be around 50 million yen. Therefore, there is still a ways to go before the B.LEAGUE can reach its goal of sending a 1-billion-yen player to the Tokyo Olympics. B.LEAGUE: The Professional Men’s Basketball League Turning up the Heat Source :YouTube screenshot So are you interested yet? If so, the latest B.LEAGUE schedule, information about ticket sales, and more can be found on the official website! The B.LEAGUE will bring about a new era of professional men’s basketball. Take a seat and experience history being written through these action packed games, or even better, cheer for your favorite team in the stands of the arena! 【Official Website】B.LEAGUE Official Site https://www.bleague.jp/ -
Video article 6:13
You Won't Be Able to Take Your Eyes off These Amazing Plays From J League's Top Athletes! Check Out This "Best Goal" Compilation That Will Have You on the Edge of Your Seat!
Sports- 20 plays
- YouTube
Introducing the Top Goals of 2019; As Chosen by Fans! This video "Top Goals of 2019; As Chosen by Fans!" was created by the J.LEAGUE.jp editorial department and contains a compilation of the top ten goals of 2019, according to fans. The "Top Goals of 2019 Ranking" was voted for by soccer fans via online questionnaire on Youtube. In this article, it's our pleasure to introduce to you, that video! Check Out the J League's Top Ten Goals of 2019! Source :YouTube screenshot Ranking number 10 of the top ten goals of 2019 is the over-head kick by Leandro Damian of Kawasaki Frontale! At number 9, from 0:29 in the video, you can see Yuta Koike of the Kashima Antlers. Coming in 8th, 7th and 6th place are Koji Miyoshi, Erik Lima and Keita Endo of the Yokohama F. Marinos. Number 5 is the goal scored in extra time by Miki Yamane of the Shonan Bellmare. From 2:59 in the video, you can see the number 4 goal by Douglas, of the Shimizu S-Pulse. and at 3rd place the shot from David Villa of the Vissel Kobe. Coming in at number 2 is the shot from Junya Tanaka of the Vissel Kobe after a nice pass from teammate Andrés Iniesta. Finally, in 1st place is the beautiful goal from Teruhito Nakagawa of Yokohama F. Marinos as he rips past the defense. You can check this goal out at 4:57 in the video. The History of J League and the Soccer Players Featured in This Video Photo:Soccer stadium J League is the name of Japan's professional soccer league. It is sponsored by the Japan Football Association (JFA), and the Japan Professional Football League. J League began in 1993 with only 10 clubs, but has grown to include 56 clubs split into 3 separate leagues: the J1 League, the J2 League and the J3 League. The top players in the J League are chosen to represent Japan in the World Cup and other important soccer competitions around the world. Players chosen in the past to represent Japan include Kazuyoshi Miura, Keisuki Honda, Hideotoshi Nakata , and Masashi Nakayama. They attracted many fans with their amazing performances. J League fans can check dates of upcoming matches, club ranks, and transfer information online and support their favorite team. Recently, you can purchase J League and Gundam collaboration goods, which are proving to be quite popular overseas as well as in Japan. J League Top Goals of 2019 Compilation Summary Source :YouTube screenshot The J League 2020 season has unfortunately been postponed. However, many fans look forward to cheering on their favorite teams again whether it be on TV or at the stadium once this year's season commences. We look forward to watching many of the amazing shots to come! If you found yourself fascinated by the goals in this video, we highly recommend checking the upcoming game schedule, purchasing tickets and going to watch a game live! -
Video article 3:34
Have you heard about the long skateboards that are all over the place? Step on the board and try your hand at a fun sport!
Sports- 19 plays
- YouTube
This video, titled "New! 2018 Golden Kiwi 46" [Longboard]" (New! 2018 Golden Kiwi 46" [ロンスケ ロングボード ]), was released by "Pinky Parl." In the video, you can see the introduction of the new 2018 model of the "Golden Kiwi" by DWELL. Longboards are popular because they are longer and more stable than regular skateboards and allow you to cruise through the streets smoothly. This 2018 model is lighter in weight and makes longboard dancing feel great. The graphics on the grip tape have a variety of designs in addition to the cloud pattern, including a Japanese style pattern, so if you're curious, check out the video and their website to see what it's like! -
Video article 4:52
Hoping That Karate Remains an Official Olympic Sport! A Message From Hokkaido's Karate Kids to the World!
Sports- 18 plays
- YouTube
This video, titled "KARATE OLYMPICS FOREVER in Hokkaido 20170219 Making オリンピックPR in 北海道 [PV]," was released by "KARATE WORLD TV - produced by JKFan." Japan's traditional art of karate, which has enthusiasts all over the world, has been designated as an official event at the 2020 Tokyo Olympics. The video was shot in Hokkaido in the extreme cold of winter, and shows children hoping that karate will continue to be an official sport of the Olympics. In the mountain where snow is still falling, children dressed in karate uniforms practice punches over and over again! After the exercise is completed, each child holds up a piece of paper saying "KARATE OLYMPICS FOREVER" and together, the children and adults chant it with all their heart. This video was also broadcast at World Karate Day in Germany in 2017. -
Video article 2:47
You'll Be Amazed at How Fast This Swordsman Draws His Katana! You'll Have Been Cut Down Before You Even See His Hands Move! Check out the Overwhelming Speed of Battojutsu in This Video!
Traditional Culture Sports- 326 plays
- YouTube
What is Battojutsu? This video, titled "Kazaana/Battojutsu version," was uploaded by "Takayuki Kanayama." If you're a fan of manga or anime, you've probably seen or heard of battojutsu, a martial art using a Japanese sword. Yes, battojutsu is the sword art used by Kenshin Himura (Battousai the Manslayer), the main character in the popular anime/manga, "Rurouni Kenshin." If you want to know more about battojutsu, this is a video you don’t want to miss! Battojutsu, as the name implies (抜刀術: 抜/ba - Draw, 刀/tou - Sword, 術/jutsu - Technique), is the art of cutting down an opponent with a single blow by drawing a sword from its scabbard when attacked by an enemy. It's a one-hit kill sword technique, but in the unlikely event that you're attacked again, you can make sure that you kill your would-be-assailant by dodging his sword and hitting him with a second strike. You can see the two opposing swordsmen dueling at 0:40, 1:01, 1:52 and 2:12 in the video, and see just how effective battojutsu is. The History of Battojutsu Photo:Japanese sword・Battojutsu Battojutsu has a long history and is said to have been systematized approximately 400 years ago during the Muromachi (1336-1573 AD) and Edo (1603-1868 AD) periods. It's a traditional Japanese martial art and was considered to be an essential sword technique for samurai. There are a number of schools, the most famous of which are Tenshin Shoden Katori Shinto-ryu and Tatsumi-ryu. At the end of the Muromachi Period, the Hayashizaki style emerged, including schools such as Muso Jikiden Eishin-ryu, which was derived from the school established by Hayashizaki Shigenobu (Jinsuke), who specialized in battojutsu. Even today, there are dojos all over Japan where you can learn battojutsu, so if you're interested, consider trying it out! The equipment needed for practicing battojutsu is a dojo uniform, a practice sword, and a kaku obi. The Differences Between Battojutsu and Iaijutsu Photo:A Japanese sword・Battojutsu One of the most famous martial arts that uses Japanese swords is iaijutsu. In fact, iaijutsu is also a form of battojutsu. In the Edo Period, drawing a sword from a seated position was called iai, and drawing a sword from a standing position was called tachiai. Battojutsu is also known as iai (居合), iaijutsu (居合術), nukiai (抜合), iai (居相), saya no uchi (鞘の内), bakken (抜剣), etc. depending on the region or school. It is said that kendo developed from tachiai as a practice martial art, without the use of serious weapons and with protective gear. Battojutsu techniques include koiguchi wo kiru, putting one's hand on the hilt of the sword, drawing the sword, brandishing the sword, downwards slashes, zanshin, chiburi (flicking blood off one's sword), and returning the sword to its scabbard. Koikuchi wo kiri (鯉口を切る) is a technique before drawing the sword, in which you push the katana out of its saya (scabbard) by its tsuba. This action can be seen at the start of sword fighting scenes in historical dramas. In iaijutsu, this technique indicates that you are in a "fighting stance." Summary of Battojutsu, a Sword Fighting Technique of Japan's Samurai Photo:A Japanese sword・Battojutsu In Japanese martial arts, techniques that do not use weapons are called taijutsu (体術), while those that use bladed weapons, such as katana and naginata, are called kenjutsu (剣術). Battojutsu is a type of kenjutsu that does not use as much power as taijutsu, but it is said to be one of the most advanced forms of kenjutsu because it requires intense concentration. Matches are decided in the instant the sword is drawn, leaving audiences on the edge of their seats! -
Video article 4:40
Take a Trip to Hokkaido's Northern Region, One of Japan's Most Popular Tourist Spots! The Area Around Asahikawa City in Hokkaido Is Full Of Activities, Including Skiing, Curling, and the Fantastical Sounkyo Onsen Ice Fall Festival!
Things to Do Sports- 34 plays
- YouTube
Let's watch a sightseeing video of Northern Hokkaido! This time, we'll be taking a look at the video "'Welcome to DOHOKU Winter,' a PR Video for Northern Hokkaido" (道北地域プロモーション動画「Welcome to DOHOKU Winter」), released by "Asahikawa City Hall." Asahikawa, Nayoro, Shibetsu, and other parts of north central Hokkaido are areas where temperatures can drop to minus 20 degrees Celsius in winter. Despite this, many people visit the northern area of Hokkaido to enjoy sightseeing unique to the harsh winter season. Asahikawa and the Northern Hokkaido Region Photo:Wolves at Asahiyama Zoo, Hokkaido, Japan Asahikawa, Hokkaido is a core city that boasts the second largest population in Hokkaido after Sapporo City. The city is characterized by a large difference in temperature, with an annual difference of more than 50 degrees Celsius. In addition to Asahikawa's popular Asahiyama Zoo, there are spots such as Ueno Farm and the Arashiyama Observatory in the Northern Hokkaido region. Be sure to check out the Nayoro Observatory Kitasubaru, Kamui Kotan, and the Ayako Miura Memorial Literature Museum. For shopping, we recommend the convenient "AEON MALL Asahikawa Ekimae," which is directly connected to the glass-faced station building. There is also an entertainment district called "Sanroku-gai" in Northern Hokkaido. Activities To Enjoy in Northern Hokkaido Photo:Curling As you can see from 0:36 in the video, there are not only ski resorts where you can going skiing and snowboarding, but also places where you can experience curling in Northern Hokkaido. In the snowy mountains where you can enjoy the scenery of nature, you can see owls and the Japanese serow, as shown from 2:40. At Hyobaku Shrine in the Sounkyo Visitor Center area of Daisetsuzan National Park, the "Sounkyo Onsen Hyobaku Festival" is held in winter and is usually bustling with visitors. In Furano, you can enjoy a walk through the flower fields and a paraglider sky walk tour in the summer. Enjoy the Delicious Food of Northern Hokkaido, Shown in the Video Photo:Asahikawa Ramen, Hokkaido In the northern Hokkaido area, you will want to enjoy the delicious local delicacies from the sea and the mountains. Enjoy Jingisukan (a Japanese grilled mutton dish) that can be eaten at "Yagitsukai-no-Ie," Asahikawa Ramen at "Asahikawa Ramen-Mura," and coffee at "Coffee Mori-no-Tokei". you can also enjoy exquisite sake at the Otokoyama Sake Brewing Museum. Summary of the Northern Area of Hokkaido Photo:Snowboarding This time, we introduced the charming Northern Hokkaido area. Because Hokkaido is very large, we recommend using Asahikawa Airport for transportation to northern Hokkaido, including places like Asahikawa. There are many hotels and hot spring inns in the Northern Hokkaido area, including Hoshino Resorts, where you can enjoy a luxurious stay, so we recommend making reservation before your trip! -
Video article 23:00
Check out the Gnarly Techniques of Shino Matsuda, a Professional Surfer With High Expectations for the Tokyo Olympic Games! The Young Hopeful Is Not Just a Surfing Star, but Also a Beautiful Model!
Celebrities Sports- 100 plays
- YouTube
Shino Matsuda Shreddin' the Gnar This video introduces Shino Matsuda, a professional surfer. It was shown on TV Osaka’s program called [BREAKTHROUGH~ Athletes who test their limits~](「BREAKTHROUGH(ブレイクスルー)~ 限界突破に挑むアスリートたち~」 プロサーファー 松田詩野). As seen from 0:42 in the video, Shino Matsuda has been chosen as a SHIBUYA109 Season Visual Model. She is an ordinary high school student who loves Instagram and Twitter. However, once she hits the waves, she transforms into an awesome surfer that magically manipulates her surfboard. This article will introduce Shino Matsuda and some of her accomplishments. Who Is Shino Matsuda? What's Her Story? Source :YouTube screenshot Professional surfer Shino Matsuda is from the center of surfing, Chigasaki City, Kanagawa Prefecture. She is 158 cm tall. She was 6 years old when she started surfing and at the time she fully immersed herself in it, surfing from sunrise to sunset. Shino Matsuda’s family talks about it from 5:14 in the video. She turned professional at 14 and the way she rides waves is said to be like how a bird elegantly glides through the air. With her distinct flexible carving, she's nothing short of successful on the world stage. You can check out her carving from 6:20 in the video. Her sponsor is Unilever which is globally famous for its shampoo commercial. As a professional surfer she is in the spotlight nationally and internationally. Her beautiful body attracts even more interests. What Is Shino Matsuda’s Competition Record? Source :YouTube screenshot Professional surfer Shino Matsuda has been successful at many international competitions and events along with Mahina Maeda who is shown from 4:18 in the video. She's one of the famous young surfers leading the world of professional surfing. Right after starting high school, she won the Ichinomiya Chiba Open. She became the WSL Asia Junior Champion in 2017, and in 2018, she won ISA World Junior Individual Silver medal and Group Gold medal. As seen from 7:31, she has been greatly successful at White Buffalo Hyuga Pro and CT (Championship Tour) events held at Avoca Beach in Australia, one of the most famous surfing spots in the world. You can watch the world competition with the top 110 surfers competing against each other from 16:39 in the video. She finished at a disappointing 17th, however, you can still enjoy her spectacular performance. Surfing in the Tokyo Olympic Games! Photo:Surfing Surfing is one of the new sports chosen to be in the Tokyo Olympic games. Tsurigasaki Shore in Chiba has been chosen as the Olympics games venue. As of February 2020, professional surfer Shino Matsuda has been given the right to participate in the Tokyo Olympic games under the condition that she trains under coach Kaisa Kawamura as a Tokyo Olympics games candidate. At the Tokyo Olympic games, you might be able to see her awesome technique, ‘off the lip’, where she turns the board 180 degrees at the top of the wave. This is shown from 6:46 in the video. Summary of the Video on Professional Surfer Shino Matsuda Today we introduced you to the 23 minute long video featuring professional surfer Shino Matsuda. The video fully shows her happily riding the waves. You should be able to see many successful professional surfers at the Tokyo Olympic games. We hope you're looking forward to it! 【Official Website】Shino Matsuda Official Website http://shino.surf/ -
Video article 2:23
150 Years Since the Start of Modern Horse Racing in Japan! So Many Fans Are Fascinated by the Tradition and Spirit of the Competitive Sport!
History Sports- 36 plays
- YouTube
A Look Into Modern Horse Racing This video, titled "Modern Horse Racing 150th Anniversary Promotional Video" (近代競馬150周年プロモーションビデオ), was created by the "National Association of Racing Channel [Official]" (地方競馬チャンネル【公式】) and it introduces the history of modern horse racing in Japan. It contains fascinating content such as the generation change of Jockeys, and the transition of race-tracks. This article is not only for horse racing fans but also those who do not know much about horse racing. It will talk about the history and how exciting horse racing is throughout the video. Japan's Modern Horse Racing Which Manages to Entertain So Many People Source :YouTube screenshot Modern horse racing attracts the attention of many fans. Based on set rules, horses race on a race-track. The origin of Japanese horse racing is recognizably European format that was organized by a group of British residents who were settled in Yokohama. Throughout the long history of modern horse racing, "Fukuyama Race Track," former "Kogane Race Track," and "Kawasaki Race Track," were made and brought many memories of unforgettable races for fans. The video shows these race tracks at 1:04. "Deep Impact" is one of the most famous horses which possessed an undefeated record. Unfortunately, he passed away in 2019. "Duramente" completed the first two wins at Japan Derby. These two horses are the most famous horses in Japan. Tickets for the memorial for Deep Impact were quickly sold out. This video is based on the 150 year-long history of horse racing, in which the passion towards it has been passed on from one generation to the next. Check the video at 0:45 to meet jockeys, the mother horse “S1spector,” and her child “S1prince.” The History of Modern Horse Racing Photo:Horse racing It is said that modern horse racing started in England, and the foundation for horse racing was built there. The official rules of modern horse racing were implemented in England in 16th century, and by the 17th century, modern horse racing had spread to France and Ireland, and as far as Germany and Italy by the 19th century. Modern horse racing has entertained citizens in various countries throughout its long history. Several different ways to enjoy horse racing, including simply watching the race, are, betting money and rooting for your favorite jockeys. In japan, Yutaka Take, Yuichi Fukunaga, Norihiro Yokoyama, and Nanako Fujita are the most popular jockeys. There is a lot of drama in modern horse racing and you will be thrilled to watch the races. Enjoying Modern Horse Racing Photo:Ban'ei Horse racing The common race type in Japan is a jockey riding the horse on a leveled flat surface. This is called "Flat racing." However, there are some unique types in different countries. For example, "Harness racing" is a style in which jockeys ride chariots and horses pull the vehicle. This style is not implemented in Japan, but it is quite popular in some countries. "Ban'ei horse racing" is from Obihiro, Hokkaido. It's a style in which horses pull heavy iron sleds. Enjoy a thrilling race, as the iron sleds weigh a max of 1 ton. Check out the video at 2:08 to see how fascinating Ban'ei horse racing is. "Hurdle horse racing" is also a popular modern horse racing style. "G1 Races," the highest grade of horse racing in Japan, includes "Yasuda Kinen," "Takarazuka Kinen," "Kikuka sho," "Tenno sho," and "Arima kinen." Seeing each horse's dedication to making it to the finish line causes the audience to waver between hope, despair, and cheering. Summary of Modern Horse Racing Photo:Horse racing The video "Modern Horse Racing 150th Anniversary Promotional Video" was created by "National Association of Racing Channel [Official]" and it introduces the history of modern horse racing. It shows the transition of race tracks and thrilling horse racing. It is a must-see video for those who loves horse racing. This video concludes by saying, "There are things that are passed down from generation to generation, never changing. This is why horse racing continues." 【Official Website】National Horse Racing Information Website https://www.goracing.jp/english/