About the Video on LED Lanterns and Other Camping Equipment! This video, titled “5 LED Lanterns Recommended for Solo Camping. Brightness Tests Included [Camping Gear]” (ソロキャンプにおすすめLEDランタン5選、明るさ実験してみました【キャンプギア】) was released by “CAMP HACK.” It introduces 5 different LED lanterns, an indispensable piece of equipment for any camper, along with brightness comparisons and their various uses. The video introduces various sizes of products such as Goal Zero, Beszing LED Lantern, GENTOS LED Lantern, FIELDOOR LED Lantern, and the WAQ LED Lantern. LED lanterns can be used not only for camping but also in emergency situations, so it is a good idea to keep one at home. A Closer Look at the LED Camping Lanterns Shown in the Video! Photo：An LED lantern LED (light-emitting diode) lanterns do not use gas and can have their batteries replaced easily, so there is no need to worry about knocking them over and starting a fire. In addition to the standard models, the video also introduces antique style and small, high-spec, ultra-lightweight LED lanterns. The one introduced at 4:52 in the video is the Beszing LED lantern, a product highly rated on Amazon. The Brightness of the Various LED Camping Lanterns Introduced in the Video Photo：An LED light The key to choosing an LED lantern is to look at the lumens, which represent the amount of light, and choose one based on its brightness. High-lumen types with around 1000 lumens are easy to use. If you’re walking at night, you’ll want an LED lantern with more than 100 lumens, preferably in the 150 to 300 lumen range. If you feel the camping light is too dark, you can use a Sierra cup as a reflector to illuminate the light. Choosing a Camping LED Lantern as Shown in the Video Photo：Camping at night If your LED lantern lasts for at least 7 hours of continuous lighting then that should be plenty. It's also important to check the weight, the amount of hanging light produced, the amount of horizontal light produced, whether the lantern will attract insects, and whether the lantern is dustproof and waterproof. There are LED lanterns that provide bright light via bulb colors, warm colors that are perfect for relaxing with pulsating lighting, as well as cozy and stylish ones. Choose one that suits the situation you want to use it in, whether it be well-designed or inexpensive. Summary of the LED Camping Lanterns If you're going camping, it's essential to have an LED lantern that can be used for extended periods of time and that is safe to use at night. The LED lanterns shown in the video are perfect for main or sub lanterns. Don't forget to prepare rechargeable batteries and mobile chargers, and be fully prepared when venturing outdoors!

Introducing the Benefits of Natto, a Japanese Staple This video, titled "The Mysterious World of Bacillus Natto: Natto: The Power of Life. How Bacillus Natto and Lactic Acid Bacteria Help Eachother!" (【納豆】納豆菌の不思議な世界「なっとう　いのちの力」 納豆菌と乳酸菌は助け合っていた!?), was uploaded by "Natto Channel" (納豆ちゃんねる). It introduces the benefits and mysteries of natto. Natto, a fermented food made from soybeans, is a commonly eaten food in Japan. It has a unique consistency and aroma, and is one of the most popular items on the Japanese breakfast menu, known for its high nutritional value and health benefits. This video explains in detail the relationship between natto and lactic acid bacteria, while showing images of the entire growth process of bacillus natto. This article introduces the relationship between natto and lactic acid bacteria alongside the video. The Health Benefits of Natto Photo：Wara natto (straw natto) Natto is made by soaking soybeans, a crop deeply rooted in Japanese food culture, in water, steaming them, spraying them with bacillus natto, and fermenting and maturing them. Bacillus natto, an essential ingredient of natto, is a bacterium called hay bacillus. Bacillus natto is a sub-type of hay bacillus that lives abundantly in rice straw, and a single straw of Japanese rice contains almost 10 million bacillus natto bacteria. The sticky, thread-like substance of natto is the shell of bacillus natto, called a spore. Bacillus natto is a strong bacterium that can withstand temperatures between -100°C and 100°C and can survive even stomach acid and make it to the intestines. Natto is rich in nutrients and also contains vitamins B2 and K2. The benefits of these vitamins include: skin beautification, stimulating growth in children, fatigue relief, improved liver function and immunity, bone strengthening, and the combating of bad bacteria. Nattokinase, an amino acid, is also an enzyme that helps dissolve blood clots in the blood and promotes blood thinning. Nattokinase is heat-sensitive, and its activity decreases rapidly at temperatures above 50°C (122°F) when there is a lot of water in the body. However, it is also considered one of the strongest bacterium because the temperature at which it is completely killed or sterilized is 120°C (248°F). Bacillus natto germinates and grows from spores when placed in a suitable environment. Growing in lines, bacillus natto produces mysterious patterns as well. The mysterious patterns can be seen via microscope at 2:15 in the video. The Relationship Between Bacillus Natto and Lactic Acid Bacteria Photo：Lactic acid bacteria A variety of bacteria coexist in the intestines. For example, there are E. coli bacteria, which are often harmful to the human body and also multiply at a rapid rate. When bacillus natto and E. coli are placed in the same humidity and temperature environment, the speed of growth of bacillus natto is much faster than that of E. coli, as shown at 4:54 in the video. Lactic acid bacteria are less active in the presence of hydrogen peroxide. This is because lactic acid bacteria do not have the catalase enzyme to decompose hydrogen peroxide. Bacillus natto on the other hand, has this catalase enzyme. Therefore, when natto extract is added to lactic acid bacteria, the lactic acid bacteria are activated and cultivated intensely, thereby enhancing the regulatory effect on the intestinal environment. A clip showing the relationship between lactic acid bacteria, which are also good bacteria, and bacillus natto is shown at 6:18 in the video. Summary of Bacillus Natto, the Super Bacteria Promoting Health in the Japanese People The above video, "The Mysterious World of Bacillus Natto: Natto: The Power of Life. How Bacillus Natto and Lactic Acid Bacteria Help Eachother!", introduces the mysterious bacillus natto that plays an important role in the health of the Japanese people. It also shows the amazing power of bacillus natto. A variety of natto products are available for sale in Japan and can be easily purchased at convenience stores and supermarkets. If you've never tried natto, consider giving this healthy food a try!

Kimono/Yukata Folding: Video Introduction This video, titled "[Kazumi Style] How to Fold a Kimono (Men's and Women's)" (Kazumi流きもの/浴衣の畳み方（男女）How to fold Kimono/Yukata), was uploaded by "kazumiryu." This is a very clear and detailed explanation of how to fold kimono and yukata, which many people have trouble with. We hope it can be of use! A Surprisingly Simple Method for Folding Kimono/Yukata! Photo：Kimono Maybe you've worn a kimono/yukata before, or perhaps you even own one but aren't sure how to properly fold it. It can seem difficult at first, but once you get the hang of it, it is surprisingly easy to do. Folding a kimono properly not only makes it compact, but also prevents wrinkles. Also, when washing a yukata at home after it has been worn, folding it and putting it in a net before washing will help prevent wrinkles. The video shows how easy it is to fold a yukata, even in a small space where you've only got about a bed's worth of space. How to Properly Fold a Kimono + Correct Folding Order Photo：A folded kimono and folding paper Let's take a look at how to fold a kimono/yukata, even in a small space. The method for folding kimono and yukata is the same for men and women too, so don't worry about that! [Folding a Kimono/Yukata] ●Folding the Bottom Half of the Kimono ・Sit in front of the kimono and place the collar on the left side ・Hold the right half (wakisen, 脇線) with both hands and fold up along the seam ・Fold the okumisen (衽線) towards your body ・Fold the left side of the kimono over the right side that you folded towards your body ・Using both hands, fold the left half completely over the right half ・Check that the seam at the center back of the kimono is straight ・Fold up the bottom part of the kimono twice ●Folding the Top Half of the Kimono ・Bring the top half of the kimono to the front ・Place the left side over the right side as you did before ・Make sure the center of the back is straight ・Fold the collar inwards a few centimeters in a triangle shape ・Fold the left sleeve over the kimono and the right under the kimono Be sure to check out the video to see a detailed, easy-to-understand video demonstration on how this is done. [Video] 0:07 - How to Fold a Kimono Kimono and yukata can be stored with care if they are properly stored. Depending on how they are stored and other factors, they may be folded two or three times. In the two-fold method, the lower half of the kimono is raised to the top to make it half the length. For a three-fold, the hem is folded once around the bottom of the sleeve to prevent wrinkles in the sleeve, and then folded in half again to make a three-fold. If you fold a kimono in the way shown in the video, you can fold it compactly even in a small space such as on a bed or table. No Floor Space? Learn Sode-Datami, a Method for Folding Kimono While Standing Up! If you've gone somewhere and you're unable to lay your kimono on the floor to be folded, there's a method called sode-datami that allows you to temporarily fold your kimono. If you learn to do this, you can temporarily fold your kimono even without a table, which is very convenient. [Sode-datami Folding Method] ・Put the kimono on backwards, with the back facing forward ・Align the sleeves by putting your arms through the cuffs ・Pull your arms out one side at a time so as not to shift the cuffs ・Hold the corner of the sleeves with one hand and the body of the kimono with the other hand from the top ・Fold the sleeves over the front of the body of the kimono ・Hold the kimono with both hands and adjust the kimono so that it is straight ・Hold the top and bottom of the kimono so that it does not fall apart, and fold the top part of the kimono towards the bottom half ・Fold it in half once more to complete the sode-datami folding method Sode-datami is a method of folding yukata and kimono for temporary storage. For example, when you are out and have little time. However, when you return home, you should fold the kimono properly before storing it. [Different Methods for Folding Kimono] There are several methods for folding kimono: ・Hon-datami ・Sode-datami ・Yogi-datami ・Juban-datami ・Haori-datami Summary of How to Fold Kimono/Yukata Photo：A woman wearing a yukata In addition to wearing yukata to fireworks displays and summer festivals in Japan people also wear kimono for occasions like Miyamairi (a shrine visit for newborns), Shichi-Go-San, Coming-of-Age Day, graduation ceremonies, and even weddings. Although you might have the chance to wear a kimono, you might not have the chance to fold one. Especially in the case of rental items, stores generally take care of the cleanup afterwards, so there are even many Japanese people who have never seen how to fold kimono. Kimono and yukata have an image of being somewhat difficult to fold, so start by practicing sode-datami. From there you can learn to fold a kimono properly with the help of a video or something. Once you get the hang of it, it is surprisingly easy to fold a kimono! The kimono folding method introduced here can also be applied to furisode and nagajuban. If you ever find yourself trying to fold a kimono, be sure to use this article/video as a guide!

An Introduction to Marie Kondo, the Organizing Consultant! This time, we'll introduce the video “Marie Kondo: The Life-Changing Magic of Tidying Up / アメリカでもベストセラー！「人生がときめく片づけの魔法」こんまり人気に迫る！” This is the video featuring Marie Kondo , an organizing consultant. Her book “The Life-Changing Magic of Tidying Up” sold as many as 5 million copies across 41 countries. Some people have even called it the "Cleaning Bible". What Is Marie Kondo Like? Source :YouTube screenshot Marie Kondo is a small lady, at just 147 cm tall. She lives in America with her husband and their children. Her blog and Instagram explain how to organize rooms. Many fans pay attention to her Social Networking Service. Marie Kondo also runs an online shop selling kitchen and bath goods. Her picture book “Kiki & Jax The Life-Changing Magic of Friendship” published in 2019 also became a hot topic for a while. In 2015, she garnered a lot of attention after being featured on the TV program “Jounetsutairik." The original Netflix series “KonMari The Life-Changing Magic of Tidying Up” where American families are visited and receive help tidying up is also very popular. How Great Marie Kondo's “The Life-Changing Magic of Tidying up” Is! Source :YouTube screenshot Her book “The Life-Changing Magic of Tidying Up,” published in 2010, sold over a million copies and was made into a drama in Japan. Moreover, the English version dominated the top of the charts on Amazon's Best Sellers list. It also came in first and second together with her new book “Spark Joy” in the New York Times' "How-To" list. Marie Kondo was also chosen as one of “the 100 most influential people in the world”. This is introduced at 0:20 in the video. What Is Marie Kondo's Organization Method? Source :YouTube screenshot Marie Kondo’s nickname “Kon Mari” is used as a verb to mean organizing, like “I’m konmari-ing.” in the English speaking world. Nowadays, as a hashtag of organizing, “Kon Mari” is used in Social Networking System. The public interview of Marie Kondo about “The Kon Mari Method” well noticed in New York in Amerika is shown from 1:19 in the video. The secret to Marie Kondo’s organization is “To clean up and keep what is important and what sparks joy” and “to appreciate” one's belongings. According to the journalist (from 2:54 in the video), Marie Kondo told American who love shopping and tend to accumulate things that removing some of them and simplifying, will lead to happiness. The KonMari Method has reached the hearts of many people. Summary of the Video of Marie Kondo, the Organizing Consultant Source :YouTube screenshot Marie Kondo’s way of organizing is getting a lot of attention not only in Japan but also in other countries as well. For those who have endless worries about organizing, and are interested in the Japanese culture of organizing, please refer to Marie Kondo. You can expect more secrets to achieve an organized life by checking out some of the books by “Yamashita Hideko” who proposed “Danshari” (detachment from possessions).

Video Introduction This video, titled "[Kazumi Style] How to Put on a Yukata for Men" (Kazumi流男ゆかたの着かた How to put on Yukata for men), was uploaded by "kazumiryu." There are few chances to wear yukata in Japan, summer festivals, fireworks displays, and other summer events, are a few such occasions. You might also get the chance when staying at a ryokan (traditional Japanese inn) or hotel during a vacation. However, since there are so few opportunities to wear yukata, even in Japan, when it comes time to put one on it can be quite the challenge. Being able to wear a yukata cool and comfortably will make you look nice and stylish! If you're looking to learn how to put on a men's yukata, then you came to the right place! Be sure to check out the video as you follow along! How to Properly Put on a Yukata. Right? Left? Which Side Goes on the Outside? Photo：A man and woman wearing yukata at a hot spring inn Yukata are always provided when staying at a hot spring resort in Japan. Many people do not know how to properly wear one, so they just throw it on and call it good. Some may say, "Well, no one's watching so, who cares?", but there is one point you need to be aware of. While it might be okay to throw it on without caring about how well it's shaped, you should at least know which side goes in and which side goes out. As long as you remember right hand in, left hand out, you shouldn't have too many problems. It may be easy to make a mistake when wearing a yukata or kimono if you're not used to the undergarments, etc. In the case of yukata, kimono, and other Japanese-style clothing, it's said to be bad luck to wear the left side in and the right side out. This is because this is how the deceased would be dressed in burial clothes. Be careful not to make this mistake! Wearing a yukata at a ryokan is fairly easy, but it's important to first select a yukata that is appropriate for your height. Since the length of the yukata is can't be adjusted like women's yukata, choose a size that sits above your ankles when worn. 1. Wear the robe so that it is evenly distributed on both sides. 2. Wrap the right side of the robe around the left hip while holding both sides of the yukata. While doing this, hold the left side firmly so your other hand is taut. 3. Wrap the left side of the yukata around the right hip, and tie the obi (sash) in a bow above the hip bone or below the belly button. 4. If you are a man and want to wear the yukata in a cool way, turn the knot clockwise and shift it to either the left or right side of the back. Be careful not to turn the obi around to the opposite side, as this will cause the yukata to become loose. Everything You Need for Wearing a Men's Yukata! Photo：Yukata at a hot spring inn Next, we'll go over how to make a yukata look more dignified. we'll explain, how to look cool while wearing a men's yukata. First, here's what you'll need in order to put on a yukata: ・Yukata ・Hadagi (undergarments) ※If you don't have hadagi, a v-neck shirt will do ・Koshi-himo (waist cord) It's recommended that you wear undergarments that fit to prevent the yukata from clinging to your body due to perspiration. A koshi-himo (waist cord) will keep the yukata firmly in place and keep the yukata looking great without falling out of place. In recent years, there are elastic waist cords whose length can be adjusted as well. Tips for Putting on a Yukata for Men Photo：A man wearing a yukata There are several points to keep in mind when wearing a yukata as a man. Let's look at them together. ・Right Side In As mentioned above, the yukata should be worn with the right on the inside. Be careful not to get this backwards. ・Wear a Yukata Appropriate for Your Height For men, it's especially important to choose a yukata that is appropriate for their height. This is because men's yukata are not adjustable like women's yukata. ・Be Careful Where You Tie the Waist Cord The waist cord should be tied above the hip bone or below the belly button. If you tie it too high, it will look childish. How to Put on a Yukata for Men + Pointers Photo：Putting on a yukata Now that you have everything you need to wear a yukata and you're familiar with some of the do's and don'ts, it's time to put it on. Below we will tell you how to put it on, along with some tips. In particular, a beautiful V-line around the neck will make you look cool in a yukata. 1. Put on the undergarments. 2. Put on the yukata and keep the waist cord over your right shoulder. 3. To wrap the yukata tightly around the hips, grasp the collars firmly with both hands and pull them forward. At this time, make sure the left side seam is hanging straight down. 4. Check the position of the yukata in your left hand, as this will be the side that goes on the outside. Once the yukata is in place, return your hands to their original positions while making sure that the height does not change. 5. Pull the yukata held in your right hand diagonally down to the left, and hold it around your left waist with the side held in your left hand on top, as if to cover the yukata. 6. Place the koshi-himo (waist cord) in front of the stomach, slightly above the hip, and wrap it around your waist on both sides. Cross it behind your back and tighten it once. When tightening, pull in your stomach and tighten it really tight so that it knocks a little bit of air out of you, and then bring the waist cord to the front. 7. Tie the waist cord in one knot on either side, avoiding the middle. The end of the cord should be tucked inside. 8. Finally, place your right hand inside the bosom of the yukata and lightly tap it downwards to adjust the shape of the yukata. A tight collar is recommended for beginners. Summary of How to Put on a Yukata for Men This video ends with only the dressing of the kimono, but on kazumiryu's channel, they explain and obi knot called "kai no kuchi." This knot is often used for men's yukata, be sure to check it out with us! If you want to wear a yukata to a festival, Bon Odori, fireworks display, or other traditional Japanese event, but don't have one, you can always use a kimono rental store. When you wear a yukata, you'll naturally look more graceful. Women tend to be noticed for their gorgeous yukata, but as a man, if you know how to wear a yukata properly, you'll stand out just as much. One of the most important parts is getting that defined v-line to make the yukata look even better. If you go out to one of Japan's summer festivals dressed in yukata while wearing geta shoes, you're sure to have a memorable experience!

Plant Hunter Seijun Nishihata If you're curious about what kind of unusual jobs exist around the world, especially in Japan, then this video is just right for you. Many people enjoy learning about unusual professions because of our interest in the unknown. We often find it inspiring to hear about people in unusual professions that are far removed from our norm. This video introduces plant hunting, an occupation that you may not have heard about before. This article will also talk about the famous plant hunter, Seijun Nishihata, and the beauty of plant hunting. Be sure to follow along with the video! Plant Hunting - Searching for Plants Across the Globe Source :YouTube screenshot Plant hunting is an unusual job that involves exploring and collecting valuable plants from around the world. In 18th century England, many products were made from plants, and they played an important role in the country's economy. This led adventurers and explorers that traveled the world in search of precious plants. The people who sought these plants, including ornamental plants and other rare plants requested by aristocrats and royalty, were known as "plant hunters." Although an unfamiliar occupation in Japan, it has quite a long history. Japanese Plant Hunter, Seijun Nishihata Seijun Nishihata is one of the most famous and accomplished plant hunters in Japan. Seijun is also the CEO of the Japanese horticultural studio, Sora Botanical Garden, where you can purchase garden plants. In the video, you can see Seijun answering questions in an interview about plant hunting and talking about his passion towards plants. Seijun hopes to bring a smile to everyone's faces through plants. Throughout his career, he has hunted a variety of plants and has brought smiles to the faces of many. He especially made many people smile at a Christmas event in Kobe. In particular, his project to bring the world's largest Christmas tree to Kobe drew a lot of attention. Be sure to check out the video to see what kind of person he is. What Plant Hunting Is All About Source :YouTube screenshot The beauty of plant hunting comes from the adventurous spirit to seek rare plants even though the environment can sometimes be very tough. In the video, you can see the passion of Seijun when he seeks plants. The appeal of plant hunting lies in the adventurous spirit of searching for rare plants, such as insectivorous plants and other rare plants, in a harsh environment that sometimes can prove to be quite a difficult task. You can feel the passion of Seijun through the video. Summary of Japanese Plant Hunter, Seijun Nishihata This video, created by "SUPER CEO," introduces Seijun Nishihata, the CEO of Sora Botanical Garden, and an honest man passionate about his job. If you are interested in learning more about Seijun after reading this article, be sure to check out the video! 【Official Website】Sora Botanical Garden https://from-sora.com/en/

Kumamoto's "Utase Fishing" and "Utase Ships." Generations Old Traditions This video, titled "[Tomorrow's Heritage Kyushu] Kumamoto's Utase Ships" ([明日の遺産 九州] 熊本「うたせ船」), was uploaded by "N.a." It's an introductory video of "Utase Ships," the traditional fishing boats handed down in Ashikita (芦北町, Ashikita cho), Kumamoto, in Japan's Kyushu region. In addition to the Kumamoto Ashikita area, "Utase Ships" are used in traditional fishing practices in areas such as Hachirogata, Akita, located in Japan's Tohoku region. The Yatsushiro Sea (八代海, Yatsushiro kai) in Kumamoto is also known as the Shiranui Sea (不知火海, Shiranui kai), and is a famous place to enjoy delicious seafood thanks to its high-quality waters. In the Shiranui Sea, the traditional Japanese fishing method of using the power of the sea breeze to pull up seafood from the ocean floor is still practiced today. This video introduces Utase Ships and traditional fishing with beautiful images. Please enjoy the video showcasing ancient techniques in the modern era. Features of the Utase Ship Source :YouTube screenshot Kumamoto's specialty is a traditional fishing method in which bottom trawling nets are set up on an Utase sailboat and dragged along by the sea breeze. The ship goes to the fishing grounds by engine, but after the net is dropped, fishing is performed using only the power of nature. Sea hulls such as prawns, crabs, and giant clams can be harvested using this bottom trawling method. The good thing about this method is that it allows you to catch only the amount of fish you need, and it also allows you to clean the ocean by pulling up debris from the sea floor. Utase fishing is a traditional fishing method that the Japanese have been using since ancient times to live in harmony with nature. The fishing is introduced from 1:41 in the video. It is also explained in the video that "only the necessary blessings are separated from the sea." Take a Ride on a Beautiful Utase Ship Source :YouTube screenshot The appearance of the beautiful boats with white sails going through the scenic open sea is exciting and gorgeous at the same time. Kumamoto's Utase Ships are so beautiful that they're called the "white-dressed ladies of the sea" (白いドレスをまとった海の貴婦人). This is introduced at 1:27 in the video. The beautiful atmosphere in the video helps you understand why it's called this. Kumamoto’s specialty Utase Ship is operated as a sightseeing pleasure boat during the off-season of fishing. While sightseeing on the Utase Ships and Ashikita fishing boats, you can also try marlin fishing! Be sure to look at the beautiful colors of these fish and eat plenty of delicious seafood! If you want to experience the magnificent views of Kumamoto's gorgeous waters or try your hand at fishing, look into the Utase tours in Kumamoto. Summary of Kumamoto's Utase Ships The Utase Ships that sail the open seas of Kumamoto, remind us of the ancient Japanese fishing methods in harmony with nature. The area around Ashikita, where you can taste delicious seafood and other gourmet dishes, is a somewhat secret spot for traveling to Kyushu. The video also introduces the dazzling white sails of an Utase Ship as it moves forward with the wind. It is a Japanese tradition we recommend checking out. If you're interested in Kumamoto's Utase Ships presented this video, be sure to plan a sightseeing trip to Kumamoto!

Video introduction of a reproduction of the Jomon people's daily life" produced by the "Idojiri Archaeological Museum" in Suwa-gun, Nagano Prefecture. Many tourists come to Japan to enjoy the beautiful shrines, picturesque scenery, delicious food and other uniquely Japanese characteristics. Even Japanese people love to travel to places like Kyoto and Nara where they can enjoy sightseeing at historical buildings and eating delicious food. However, in this article, we'd like to take a break from the standard approach to enjoying Japan and recommend a few lesser-known spots where you can learn about the life of the Jomon people nearly 3,000 years ago. In this article, we'll introduce the Idojiri Archaeological Museum, where you can learn about the life of the Jomon. Be sure to follow along with the video as you read on! Who Were the Jomon People? What Were Their Lives Like? Source :YouTube screenshot The Jomon people lived all over Japan, from Hokkaido to Okinawa, during the Jomon period approximately 16,000 to 3,000 years ago. In world history, this period corresponds to the Mesolithic and Neolithic ages. The Jomon were a people who devised many different ways to survive. They invented tools and objects that were passed down through the Yayoi period and into the modern day to make life easier. For example, it was in the Jomon period that bows were made, making it possible to hunt from a distance. They also invented stone tools and earthenware, which made it possible to cook and store food. It was also during this period that people began to build pit houses and settle in one place, and villages were established. In this way, the Jomon were able to use their wisdom to improve their lives. The Idojiri Archaeological Museum Source :YouTube screenshot The Idojiri Archeological Museum, which can be viewed from 0:27 in the video, is a facility where you can learn about the life and culture of the Jomon people. There are a number of exhibits on display that tell the story of life in the Jomon period, including pottery and other artifacts from the Jomon period. The earthenware and stone tools are arranged according to the age of the Jomon period, and there are also descriptions on the use of each item. There is also a section where you can see what it would have been like to live in a Jomon period dwelling, as well as a reproduction of their diet and clothing. There is also a place where you can learn about the religion and myths of the time, deciphered from the patterns of the earthenware and stone tools. It's a must-see for history buffs! Many stone hoes have been found at the Idojiri ruins as well. They can be seen at 0:38 in the video. About 4,500 years ago, these stone hoes were utilized by the Jomon people. They were a strong agricultural tribe, and used them to plow their fields. In the spring they sowed millet, and in the summer they sowed buckwheat. You can see a reenactment of their agricultural activities at 1:02 in the video. There are also weeding tools on display at the Idojiri Archaeological Museum. Source :YouTube screenshot In the fall, they used stone knives to harvest their grain (2:10). Threshed grains were transferred to a stone mill to remove the shells. The threshed grains would be hulled in a stone mortar and then cooked into porridge using earthenware, and then the whole family would eat together in the pit dwelling. In addition to porridge, the Jomon also ate river fish, wild vegetables, walnuts, and dumplings. You can check out how the tools they used when cooking were made at 4:59 in the video. Jomon pottery was entirely hand made. First, the clay is kneaded and mixed with sand to make a dough, then the dough is piled to create a pattern without any gaps. Each piece was dried for 2-4 weeks before being baked over an open fire. So how were Jomon period tools made? You can see this process at 6:23 in the video. They used oval shaped stones to hit a smaller, flat stone to break of thin pieces that will be used to make the hoes. The hoe and other stone tools of the time are shaped the same way as modern hoes. Women's necklaces and other items were also excavated from various ruins. You can also see how people would have hunted with bows during the Jomon period. The Idojiri Archaeological Museum is an interesting spot to learn about the roots of Japanese people and the lifestyle of the Jomon people. Summary of the Jomon Civilization Source :YouTube screenshot This video was created by "IDOJIRIKOKUKOKAN." We recommend it to anyone interested in learning about Japanese history! By implementing reenacted clips in the video, it's easy to understand the lifestyle of the Jomon people and how they made and used tools. Famous Jomon period ruins include Sannai Maruyama (Aomori), Kamegaoka (Aomori), Omori Kaizuka, (Tokyo), Kasori Shellmounds (Chiba), and Nabatake (Saga). If you're interested in the Jomon period, be sure to stop by!

Koi Carp: Loved by the Japanese Since Long Ago This video is called ‘Koi Carp 〜Swimming Art〜 (錦鯉 〜泳ぐ芸術〜)’ and made by JVT Channel (JVTチャンネル). The video shows you colorful koi swimming elegantly. Koi are aquarium fish with a long history. Historical records show koi being used as the inspiration for painting patterns of items exhibited at expos during the Taisho Period (1912～1926). They are actually an invasive species to Japan. The specially bred fish have been bred into many different varieties. Koi are kept as aquarium fish in aquariums and ponds within Japanese gardens. Their characteristics are their beautiful patterns and striking colors. The average size of these fish is between 30 and 60 cm and their life span is around 30 years. Let’s take a look at why these fish are so attractive. The video shows you a koi farm and a competition that you don’t get an opportunity to see often. Be sure to check it out while reading this article. What Are Koi? Photo：Koi Koi were originally called "irogoi" (色鯉, colored carp), hanagoi (花鯉, flower carp), and "moyougoi" (模様鯉, patterned carp) in Japanese. They started to be called Nishikigoi (錦鯉, brocade carp) because of their luxurious designs reminiscent of a brocade. The Japanese brocade shown at 0:14 in the documentary video is a Japanese traditional silk fabric made by weaving variously colored threads. Koi were originally eaten as a food, then, one day, a unique fish with beautiful patterns appeared. There are many kinds of koi, such as red and white and tri-colored koi with red, white, and black. In addition to the Taisho Sanshoku (tri-color) and the Showa Sanshoku, there are some unusually colored ones, such as light yellow, autumn Green, tortoise shell patterned koi, reflective koi, five Colored koi, and gold and Peacock koi as well. How Are Koi Looked After? Source :YouTube screenshot It takes a lot of work to raise beautiful Nishikigoi. The Dainichi Koi Farm in Niigata Prefecture in Japan's Koshinetsu region, farms koi. At the farm, they strictly control water temperature and quality, as well as feeding schedules. They put great care into raising beautiful koi. They are also very particular about the feed given to their koi. This can be seen from 1:13 in the video. From 1:37, you can see many baby koi as well. Hiroshi Mano from Dainichi Koi Farm says in the interview, "The most important things are maintaining proper water temperature and quality. Beautiful koi are strong, healthy koi. From 3:27 in the video, you can see the annual National Koi Competition. Koi from the Dainichi Koi Farm were the winners of this competition. How to Get Your Very Own Japanese Koi There are many kinds of koi. In Japan, many people love koi. Koi with patterns or beautiful colors are sold at auctions for sometimes astronomically high prices. Furthermore, you can buy specially bred varieties of koi at online shops and Yahoo Japan Auctions, but they usually go for quite a bit of money. Some orders for Japanese koi come from overseas. The number of koi exported overseas is increasing year by year. Popular koi have been used as a motifs in traditional Japanese crafts as well. We recommend buying plates and chopstick holders with koi pattern designs. Summary of Japan's "Swimming Jewels" Photo：Koi In Japan, there are many kinds of aquarium fish, such as goldfish and Japanese rice fish. Among them, koi are loved by many people for their jewel-like beauty. Koi are born around Niigata Prefecture area. You can learn the history and the characteristics of koi at Nishikigoi no Sato in Niigata, the birthplace of koi, and at Fukuoka Koinosato Park in Fukuoka-machi, Toyama Prefecture in Japan's Hokuriku region, which is one of Japan’s most famous koi production towns. If you have a large landscape garden or a large aquarium and would like some koi of your own, try searching online or try out some auction sites to see if they have what you're looking for. You can see many koi with beautiful patterns in the video. Be sure to check out the video to enjoy the beauty of Japan's "swimming jewels."

Edo Period Recipes: Video Introduction Source :YouTube screenshot This video, titled "[2] Edo Period Food: Making it Just Like the Original Recipe" (【2】江戸時代のご飯 原典(レシピ)通り作ってみた), was uploaded by "Gens Bookshelf Cafeteria." This video introduces Edo Period food recreated based on recipes from three cookbooks published during the Edo Period: Ryori Monogatari, Tofu Hyakuchin, and Meihan Burui. The Edo Period (1603-1868 A.D.) was a period of 260 years where Japan was under the rule of the Tokugawa Shogunate. The recipes are intriguing as they introduce meals that are similar to many found in present-day Japanese cooking, while reflecting the food culture of the time. Be sure to check out what the dishes were like in the video. How Many Meals a Day in Edo Period Japan? Shogun vs. Commoner Food Culture Photo：An oil lantern During the Edo Period, people generally ate two meals a day, one in the morning and one in the evening. However, midway through the Edo Period, it's said that three meals a day became the norm. This was due to the improvement of lanterns, which allowed people move about at night. Basic meals of the common people consisted of one soup and one vegetable dish. Side dishes consisted mostly of simmered vegetables and pickled vegetables, and fish was eaten only once every two weeks or so. The tenements where the common people of Edo lived were small and cramped housing complexes. Because of the cramped kitchens, rice was cooked only once a day to ensure efficient cooking. Farmers paid a large portion of their taxes as rice, so they had little rice to eat themselves. They often ate katemeshi, rice cooked with various grains, or mochi (rice cakes) made from various grains. The diet of a samurai varied according to rank. Low-ranking samurai had the same diet as common people, while high-ranking samurai ate a wider variety of food items and ingredients. Daimyo (feudal lords) and shogun enjoyed an even wider variety of side dishes, and some lords even enjoyed fish at every meal. Depending on their social status, they may also have enjoyed sake. Another characteristic of Edo Period food was that many people began to eat out. Food stalls selling tempura and soba (buckwheat noodles) slowly began to pop up and became common among the general populace. Other popular foods were kabayaki (grilled eel covered in a sweet soy sauce) and sushi. Together with soba and tempura, these are considered the four major foods of the Edo. 3 Edo Period Cookbooks – Cook Like They Did in the Age of the Samurai Source :YouTube screenshot Here are the three books on food in the Edo Period that were featured in the video. ●Ryori Monogatari (Tales of Cooking) Ryori Monogatari is a cookbook published in 1643, in the early Edo Period. It's considered to be the oldest cookbook in Japan that provides specific cooking methods. Dishes and ingredients are listed by category, such as "sea fish" and "river fish," and cooking methods are divided into "broths," "vinegared foods," etc. This method of compiling recipes influenced later cookbooks as well. ●Tofu Hyakuchin Tofu Hyakuchin is a cookbook published in 1782, in the mid-Edo Period. It lists 100 recipes for tofu. The book introduces dishes divided into six classes, including "common" and "exquisite," and describes the cooking processes in detail. The book also includes a note that a sequel was published the following year, which suggests that tofu was a popular ingredient among the people of the Edo Period. ●Meihan Burui Meihan Burui was published in 1802, in the late Edo Period. It's a cookbook specializing in recipes involving rice, and introduces more than 140 recipes for porridge, sushi, etc. It also includes columns on the characteristics of rice by production area, showing the high level of interest in cooking with rice during the Edo Period. Fish? Meat? Vegetables? What Did People in the Edo Period Eat the Most Of? Photo：Rice bran The basic diet during the Edo Period consisted of rice, miso soup, and one side dish. From the mid-Edo Period onward, as rice production increased and rice-polishing technology improved, diets shifted from brown rice to white rice. This had an impact on food culture as well, such as the spread of pickled vegetables made from the bran produced in the rice polishing process. Side dishes for the common people consisted mainly of beans and vegetables cooked in a stew. Natto (fermented soybeans) and tofu were also commonly eaten as a source of protein. Vegetables such as daikon, komatsuna (Japanese mustard spinach), and leeks were common, and these are eaten even today. Soy sauce, an essential ingredient for flavoring meals in the Edo Period, also spread to the common people in the mid-Edo Period. Many of the dishes in the book are also flavored simply with soy sauce or miso. ●Nebuka-jiru Nebuka-jiru is a miso soup with green onions. Make broth with kombu and dried sardines, and add leeks. Once cooked, miso is added and the soup is complete. [Video] 2:14 - Nebuka-jiru ●Ozasa Tofu Tofu is cooked on a skewer, then cooked in a pot with broth, soy sauce, and mirin. Beaten egg is then poured over the tofu and simmered, and then sprinkled with sansho (Japanese pepper). [Video] 3:00 - Ozasa Tofu ●Tofu Noodles Tofu crumbles and komatsuna are stir-fried, then mixed with boiled somen noodles. Season with soy sauce and serve. [Video] 4:11 - Tofu Noodles In the Edo Period diet, common people ate fish dishes only a few times a month. The common people ate inexpensive and easily obtainable fish, such as sardines and tuna. Shoguns or daimyo on the other hand, ate high-end fish such as sea bream (which were said to bring good luck), sillago, and flounder. Although eating meat was prohibited for many years, it was sometimes consumed for medicinal purposes. Summary of Food Culture in Edo Period Japan Source :YouTube screenshot In this article. we introduced a video recreating Edo Period food. By learning about meals during Edo Period Japan, you can better understand how people lived, the food culture, and the social dynamics of the time. Food is one of the many perspectives from which to understand the history of any given era. If you're curious about Japanese cooking, maybe try making some of the recipes yourself! We hope you can use this article as a reference to create some delicious dishes!

Video introduction of “Red Soybean Natto” made by a natto craftsman in Kyoto, Japan This video, titled "How to make a Delicious Japanese "Kyo-Natto" Amazing "Natto" Master in Kyoto Japan![ASMR][DELI BALI]," was uploaded by "DELI BALI." This series features Kyo-natto, a popular product in Japan's Kansai region, made by Fujiwara Foods, near Kuramaguchi Station in Kyoto. Check out the video below to see how the delicious Kyo-Natto is made. Red Soybeans - One of the Many Varieties of Soybeans! Photo：3 types of soybeans Did you know that there are many varieties of soybeans? When you hear the word "soybeans," the first thing that comes to mind is probably the common yellow soybean. However, there are actually other varieties of soybeans, including red soybeans, green soybeans, and even black soybeans. Among the many varieties, red soybeans are a rare variety with few farmers growing them. Their nutritional value and flavor are superior to those of other varieties, and they are highly sought after. Different Ways to Eat Red Soybeans One problem many people have with natto is that the soybean skin remains in their mouth even after they've finished eating. The skin of red soybeans is so thin that it easily passes through the teeth, and the texture is pleasant, so the skin does not remain in the mouth. Also, because of its strong umami flavor, many recipes have been published for people who want to taste the full flavor of the bean, such as nimame (boiled soybeans). In addition to the sweet nimame, there are many other ways to enjoy soybeans, such as boiled in salted water, served with rice, or with spinach and tofu dressing. There are many different recipes to try out. In this video, red soybean natto is used as an ingredient. Kyo-Natto - The Creme de la Creme of Natto Source :YouTube screenshot The video introduces Fujiwara Foods, a leading natto manufacturer in Kyoto. In addition to natto made from common soybeans, the company also produces red soybean natto and green soybean natto. Several types of natto, including "Kyo-Natto Otsubu" (京納豆大粒, Large Bean Kyo-Natto) and "Kamogawa Natto" (鴨川納豆, Kamo River Natto), which won an excellence award for five consecutive years at the Japan Natto Competition, are loved by many natto fans. The process of making red soybean natto begins with the artisan's hand washing of the beans. The beans are gently washed by hand and soaked in water until they are about twice their original size. From there, the red soybeans are cooked in a pressure cooker. In the video, you can see the pressure cooker, which is full of Fujiwara Foods' commitment and history. After the beans are cooked, natto bacillus is immediately sprayed on the beans. Before the beans cool down, the natto is packed and left in the fermentation room for another 20 hours before the red soybean natto is finally ready. President Fujiwara says he never liked natto and did not want to take over his family's business. However, he is now known as a natto maker with fans not only in Kyoto but all across Japan. Summary of Kyo-Natto, a Natto Made With Red Soybeans Natto is a food for all genders and ages because of its high quality protein, so much so that it's called "Hatake no Niku" (畑の肉, 'the meat of the fields') in Japan. Furthermore, in recent years, soybeans have been attracting attention from people interested in dieting as a low-sugar food. Natto is made from fermented soybeans, which makes it even more nutritious. However, as the president of Fujiwara Foods disliked natto, it is a food that Japanese people are quite divided about. For those who dislike the smell, using spices such as wasabi, garlic, or curry seems to make it easier to eat. Be sure to give it a try if you dislike natto yourself. Even some natto lovers probably didn't know that there's red soybean natto and green soybean natto, or they may have known about them but have never eaten them. You'd be surprised at how different the different types of soybeans are. Red soybean natto is on a whole different level from regular natto. Be sure to give it a try!

Highly Specialized Shogi Pieces and Human Shogi in Tendo, Yamagata! This video, titled "Shogi Culture in Tendo - The Thoughts of Craftsmen and Human Shogi" (天童市の将棋駒文化～生産者の想いと人間将棋～), was uploaded by "The City of Tendo" (天童市). It's a PR video that was released by the Public Relations Department of Tendo, Yamagata, located in Japan's Tohoku region. Tendo is a small town in Yamagata Prefecture that produces more than 95% of Japan's shogi pieces. It has a long history, with roots dating back to around 1830. The origins date back to the end of the Edo period (1603-1868), when shogi itself was considered to be connected to bushido and the samurai way of life, and shogi pieces began to be made as an in-house occupation for many warriors. Tendo's passion for shogi is so strong that various shogi events are held as part of the city's urban development. As seen at 0:38 in the video, there are symbols of Shogi pieces on mail boxes, taxis, and bridges, and even shogi puzzles on the sidewalks of the streets. Urban Development and Shogi in Tendo, Yamagata. The Unique Charm of Tendo, a Town Full of Shogi! Photo：Human shogi, Tendo, Yamagata Tendo, Yamagata famous for shogi, hosts an event called the Tendo Cherry Blossom Festival: Human Shogi. This is one of the urban development events held just around the time the cherry blossoms are in full bloom in April, surrounded by approximately 2,000 cherry trees at the top of Mt. Maizuru. Human shogi, which can be seen from 1:12 in the video, is loved by people of all ages and genders. The basic rules are the same as for regular shogi. This unique shogi tournament, in which people play as shogi pieces, shows the smiling faces of Tendo residents and their passion for Shogi. Tendo is a town full of attractions and shogi alike. In addition to visiting the Shogi Museum and other famous attractions, we also recommend taking a stroll around the town of shogi, looking at souvenirs as you walk, and enjoying a tour of the shogi pieces that decorate the sidewalks. Shogi Culture and the Shogi Craftsmen of Tendo, Yamagata Producing 95% Of Japan's Shogi Pieces Tendo, which has supported the production of shogi pieces since the end of the Edo period, employs a method unique to Tendo that has been handed down from one generation to the next. Kijizukuri, the process of shaping logs into shogi pieces, is one of the fundamental operations in Shogi piece production. It's a high-quality crafting technique that can only be realized by Tendo's shogi craftsmen, who care deeply for the people that will be holding the pieces they craft. You can see how shogi pieces are made at 1:52 in the video. The calligraphy on crafted shogi pieces is done with lacquer. Unlike the ink used in calligraphy, lacquer cannot be used to write smoothly. Using lacquer to write characters such as "Osho" (王将, King), "Hisha" (飛車, Rook), and "Kaku" (角, Bishop) on small shogi pieces brings the shogi pieces to life. Furthermore, carving pieces using a seal-engraving knife is another well-known method. In Tendo, Yamagata, shogi piece craftsmen carve the characters by hand. This gives the pieces a texture and smoothness that machines cannot replicate. In this way, Tendo supports Japan's important, traditional shogi culture. The Different Pieces of Tendo, Yamagata Used in Titled Matches and Matches Between Shogi Meijin Photo：Shogi pieces Hori-koma (彫埋駒, engraved pieces) and Moriage-koma (盛上駒, pieces with raised characters painted with a special brush) used in matches between shogi meijin and in titled tournaments, are made by shogi piece craftsmen in Tendo, Yamagata. The shogi meijin system has a history of more than 400 years and is supported by the superb pieces made by the shogi craftsmen of Tendo. Hohoemi no Yado Takinoyu, a long-established ryokan in Tendo, where shogi culture is deeply rooted, is widely known to shogi fans as the site of the Ryuo Tournament. The Ryuo Room at Hohoemi no Yado Takinoyu has been passed down through the generations as the site of one of shogi's most historically famous games, in which Yoshiharu Habu, a shogi meijin (master) and chess FIDE Master, won the Ryuo title in 1994, with a 4-2 victory. The long-established ryokan Hohoemi no Yado Takinoyu can be reserved by the general public, and can be used as lodging when sightseeing in Tendo City. Sightseeing and Specialty Products of Tendo, Yamagata, a Town of Shogi We recommend using a sightseeing volunteer guide or using the "Tendo WARABE KOMA GUIDE" to explore the sights of Tendo, Yamagata. Various pieces are on display at the Shogi Museum as well. In addition, for residents of Japan, Tendo also focuses on Furusato Nozei tax payments, and returns include Yamagata Prefecture's specialty products, such as La France (French pears) and cherries, as well as shogi piece straps (key holders, etc.), decorative pieces, and sets of shogi pieces and shogi boards. Summary of Tendo, a Place of Shogi Culture in Yamagata Prefecture Photo：A shogi art installment at Tendo Park, Tendo, Yamagata Shogi piece culture has been handed down since the end of the Edo period in Tendo. In Tendo, Yamagata, shogi piece craftsmen have long supported traditional Japanese culture. The passion of Shogi piece craftsmen and Tendo's urban development events to preserve traditional culture... Enjoy the charm of Tendo's shogi culture in this 6-minute video. 【Trip Advisor】Tendo, a Town of Shogi https://www.tripadvisor.com/Tourism-g1023678-Tendo_Yamagata_Prefecture_Tohoku-Vacations.html

Suruga Bamboo Sen-suji-zaiku, a Traditional Craft, Video Introduction of Craftsmanship in Shizuoka City, Shizuoka Prefecture This is a promotional video for Suruga Take Sensuji Zaiku (Suruga Bamboo Ware), created by Aoyama Square, a shop specializing in traditional Japanese crafts. Suruga Bamboo Ware is a traditional craft made from bamboo stems. Created using professional techniques whereby the craftsman creates flower vases, bug cages, and handbags by assembling thin strips cut from bamboo stems. In recent years, it has become popular with more modern items, such as bags and wind chimes. Today, we'll introduce in detail the highly valued traditional Japanese craft, Suruga Bamboo Ware. Be sure to follow along with the video! The History of Suruga Bamboo Ware ©SUN Modifying Due to rich bamboo resources, bamboo crafts were commonly used in daily life from olden times in the Suruga area, in Shizuoka prefecture. The origin of the craft is rooted in ancient history. Bamboo products like baskets and cages have been excavated from Toro ruins in this area, major ruins of the Yayoi period. In the Edo period, bamboo crafts established a position as side jobs for samurai. After retiring from the shogunate, Tokugawa Ieyasu lived in Sunpu Castle, and a local culture of bamboo craftsmen was established in the Suruga area. Suruga Bamboo Ware was recognized as national traditional craft by the Ministry of International Trade and Industry in 1976. How Suruga Bamboo Ware Is Made Source :YouTube screenshot The production process of Suruga Bamboo Ware is divided into 4 parts: Measuring and cutting bamboo, Bending, Weaving, and Assembly. Japanese timber bamboo (Madake) or Moso bamboo (Mosochiku) are used as materials, and strips are cut from their stalks. Flat strips are used for bamboo crafts in other areas, but Suruga Bamboo Ware uses round cut strips. They are made using a unique technique that involves bending the strips into round shapes and connecting them through weaving. The distinctive feature of Suruga Bamboo Ware is that all processes, from the cutting and measuring of bamboo to the finishing touches, are done by a single craftsman. A more detailed process is shown in the video at 0:25. Please enjoy the techniques of Suruga Bamboo Ware craftsman, Takahide Sugiyama. Suruga Bamboo Ware Products Source :YouTube screenshot There are many different Suruga Bamboo Ware products; snack trays, which are great for hosting guests, flower vases, tea cup saucers, small pouches, lightings such as lanterns and lamps, wind chimes/desktop wind bells, bug cages, and more. Beautiful Japanese style handbags are also popular. These products can be purchased on amazon and Japan’s major online retailer, Rakuten. Prices range from several thousands to several tens of thousands of Japanese yen (tens to hundreds of dollars), depending on the product. Summary of Suruga Bamboo Ware As introduced in the video, Suruga Bamboo Ware is traditional Japanese craft handmade by a single artisan. If you're looking to take in some Japanese culture in your daily life, we recommend purchasing some Suruga Bamboo Ware products. They make great souvenirs and gifts as well. 【Official website】Suruga Bamboo Ware "Shizuoka Bamboo-crafts Cooperative" http://www.takesensuji.jp/?mode=f8 【Official website】Japan Traditional Crafts Aoyama Square https://kougeihin.jp/en/

Video introduction of “Nagashi Hina” at Shimogamo-jinja Shrine in Kyoto City, Kyoto Prefecture This video, titled "[Past Video] Kyoto Nagashibina at Shimogamo Shrine (Filmed in Sakyo, Kyoto, March 3, 2017)" (【過去動画】下鴨神社「京の流しびな」（2017年3月3日撮影　京都市左京区）), was uploaded by "Kyoto Shimbun" (京都新聞). About Hinamatsuri & Shimogamo Shrine Hinamatsuri, also known as Girl's Day, is an annual event in Japan to pray for the healthy growth of girls. It's a seasonal festival/event in which special dolls called "hina" are decorated with cherry blossoms, oranges, peach blossoms, and other decorations. The History of Hinamatsuri dates back approximately 1,000 years to Japan's Heian Period, and references to hina dolls can even be found in famous Japanese texts, such as the Tale of Genji. In the past mainly paper dolls would have been used, and while they are still used for some ceremonies, eventually the more luxurious dolls we see today became the norm for celebrations. Kyoto is home to an endless number of historical shrines and temples and Shimogamo Shrine is no exception. Shimogamo Shrine is a famous shrine and UNESCO World Heritage Site and is one of the oldest shrines in Japan. It's a must-visit tourist attraction in Kyoto and there are many different restaurants and cafes serving traditional sweets in the area around it. Nagashibina (Floating Hina Doll Festival), is a Hinamatsuri Festival that's held every year on March 3 at Shimogamo Shrine in Kyoto. In early spring, when the weather is still cold, the tranquil air above the Mitarashi River and the buds on the plum trees remind us of the arrival of spring. This Hinamatsuri festival features hina dolls dressed in Junihitoe, a unique twelve-layered kimono worn during the Heian period by noble women, and a variety of other dolls wearing kimono and crowns. There are even town mascots participating in the event. Check out the video of the Hinamatsuri Festival at Shimogamo Shrine to see the unique Nagashibina event where hina dolls made of Japanese paper are placed on woven straw vessels and sent floating down the Mitarashi River. The History of Nagashibina, the Roots of Hinamatsuri Photo： Nagashibina at Shimogamo Shrine (Kamo Mioya Shrine), Kyoto Shimogamo Shrine is A World Heritage Site in Kyoto, Japan and is formally known as Kamo Mioya Shrine. The Nagashibina Hinamatsuri festival, held every March, is a traditional event that is said to be the origin of Hinamatsuri. According to the history of the festival, it originated from "Joshi no Sekku," one of the five seasonal festivals of Japan, which was introduced from China. March 3 falls on the second of the five festivals, "Joshi no Sekku." On this day, there was a Chinese custom of purifying the body by the waterside and holding a banquet to drive away misfortune. It's believed that these ancient Chinese Sekku events mixed with the Japanese beliefs of misogiharai (purification via water ablutions) and the custom of praying for good health by floating purified dolls (hitogata) down the river, resulting in the modern Nagashibina Hinamatsuri festival we have today. The "hitogata" are also said to be the origins of modern Hina Dolls. The story of purifying the human form and putting it on a boat and floating it into the sea in Suma is mentioned in "The Tale of Genji" an epic written in the mid-Heian period (794-1185 A.D.) that's widely considered the first novel ever written. When to See the Hinamatsuri Event at Shimogamo Shrine Photo：A Nagashibina doll at Shimogamo Shrine (Kamo Mioya Shrine), Kyoto Here we'll introduce the Nagashibina Hinamatsuri Festival held at Shimogamo Shrine. The hina dolls dressed in Heian period costumes, are chosen by couples from the general public who are planning to get married. [Video] 0:25 - Hina Dolls Being Chosen by the Public The event is usually held on March 3rd, but please check the official website for details. The Nagashibina Hinamatsuri festival takes place along the Mitarashi River, which flows in front of the Mitarashi Shrine (御手洗社, Mitarashi-sha) and Inoue Shrine (井上社, Inoue-sha), which are located at the end of the shrine's precincts. Hina dolls made of Japanese paper are placed in straw vessels and floated down the river to pray for the health and safety of the children. The highlight of the festival is the junihitoe, a 12-layered kimono worn during the Heian period, as well as seeing the hina dolls portrayed in human form. Seeing the festival being held will give you a sense of the historical atmosphere typical of the ancient capital of Kyoto. The festival is free of charge, and the Nagashibina dolls used for the Hinamatsuri festival are available for a fee (small: 500 yen, large: 1,000 yen). [Video] 1:02 - Hina Dolls Floating Down the River On the day of the Hinamatsuri event, amazake (a sweet, low-alcohol or non-alcohol type of sake) will be served, which is a welcome treat during the colder months of the year. Other Nagashibina Hinamatsuri Events Across Japan Photo：Nagashibina Hinamatsuri In addition to Shimogamo Shrine in Kyoto, there are many Nagashibina Hinamatsuri festivals and events held throughout Japan. Below is a list of some of them: ●Hina Nagashi at Awashima Shrine, Wakayama Prefecture The Hinamatsuri event at Awashima Shrine is known as Hina Nagashi, and features three small white wooden boats that are used to carry the dolls, with wishes written on them, out to sea after a purification ceremony by a shrine priest. The festival is usually held on March 3. ●Edo Nagashibina, Tokyo Edo Nagashibina is held to pass on traditional events to children and to wish for their bright futures. Please check the official website for more details. ●Yose Nagashibina, Yose, Tottori The Yose Nagashibina Hinamatsuri event is held on March 3 of the lunar calendar to pray for good health and safety, and was designated as an Intangible Folk Cultural Property of Tottori Prefecture in 1985. ●Hina Nagashi at Akama Shrine, Shimonoseki, Yamaguchi The Hina Nagashi event at Akama Shrine is held every March to comfort the spirits of Emperor Antoku and the Heike clansmen who died in the Battle of Dan-no-Ura at an early age. Summary of Hinamatsuri at Shimogamo Shrine, Kyoto Regardless of the time period or region, Nagashibina is always a time to wish for good health and a bright future for children. The dolls are modeled after purification dolls from various parts of Japan to purify themselves by allowing their impurities to be washed away in the water. This event is held in March, when the aroma of the Japanese plum blossoms is in the air. The Shinto rituals and customs in each region have changed little by little, but the concept behind them has remained unchanged since ancient times. Experience Hinamatsuri and Japanese culture while enjoying tourism and spring in Kyoto! 【Official Website】Shimogamo Shrine｜Kamo Mioya Shrine 【TripAdvisor】Shimogamo Shrine

Video Introduction of "Yanmar Tokyo" in Chuo-ku, Tokyo This video, titled "'Yanmar Tokyo' Opens in Yaesu, Tokyo – A Complex Directly Connected to the Station (January 12, 2023)" (「ヤンマー・トーキョー」東京・八重洲に開業　駅直結の複合施設（2023年1月12日）), was uploaded by "TV TOKYO BIZ" (テレ東BIZ). Yanmar, known as a major agricultural equipment manufacturer, has opened "Yanmar Tokyo," a complex of facilities in Tokyo with the theme of "rice." Yanmar Tokyo is a new type of facility that promotes rice and agriculture in the heart of the city near JR Tokyo Station. It features an interactive gallery by creative director Kashiwa Sato and a restaurant where visitors can enjoy delicious dishes made with rice. Be sure to check out the video introducing Yanmar Tokyo before reading on. What Is Yanmar Tokyo? A Look at the New Complex That Opened in January 2023 + Location Information and More Photo：Yanmar Tokyo Yanmar Tokyo is a new building complex which opened in January 2023 after the demolition and renovation of the previous Yanmar Tokyo Building that was built in 1977. Located in Yaesu, Tokyo, Yanmar Tokyo is a 14-story building with three basement levels and stands 69.88 meters tall. The total floor space is 22,000 m2, and includes commercial areas, restaurants, and gallery spaces on the basement, first, and second floors. The third to 14th floors house the Yanmar Group and other office tenants. A distinctive feature of the building is its focus on "rice" and "agriculture" as part of Yanmar's "HANASAKA" value initiative. In the heart of Tokyo's Yaesu district, the facility also plays a role as a base for supporting new farmers and disseminating information on food production. In addition, Yanmar Tokyo serves as a place where visitors can learn about rice and agriculture, including restaurants where they can enjoy rice and a hands-on gallery where they can learn about rice. Yanmar Kome Gallery – Fun for Kids and Adults Alike! Photo：Inside Yanmar Tokyo The Yanmar Kome Gallery (Yanmar Rice Gallery), a hands-on exhibit in Yanmar Tokyo, offers a variety of contents to enjoy. Visitors can discover the beauty of rice through various challenges. For example, the the "Rice Personality Test," in which participants answer "yes" or "no" to a set of questions and are told which variety of rice fits their personality, and the "Wisdom of Rice Cultivation," in which visitors learn how to solve problems that arise during rice cultivation through a game using dice. The direction of the gallery was overseen by creative director Kashiwa Sato. In addition to the aforementioned content, the gallery is also decorated with rice straw. The atrium, which features artwork composed of multiple layers of cherry blossom petals, is popular for its dynamic, photogenic sights. The rice sculpture, the symbol of the Yanmar Rice Gallery, and the tractors are also popular spots! Be sure to take some photos with your kids if you're visiting as a family. Italian Cuisine, Seaweed Bentos and More! Check Out the Tasty Restaurants at Yanmar Tokyo! Yanmar Tokyo offers more than just information on rice and agriculture; it also offers a wide variety of delicious foods that allow visitors to enjoy the delicious taste of rice. The restaurant on the second floor is ASTERISCO, an Italian restaurant supervised by Kundo Koyama, a broadcast writer and producer, and produced by Yoshiyuki Okuno, the chef of La Brianza in Roppongi. At ASTERISCO, with "rice" being the core of the menu, diners can enjoy small dishes prepared in the "Yum cha" style, using special ingredients from each of the four seasons in different regions. This is a new type of restaurant where a cart moves around the seating area, providing information about the ingredients while simultaneously serving food to guests, allowing them to enjoy their meal in an interactive format. The restaurant is open for lunch from 11:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. and for dinner from 5:30 p.m. to 10:30 p.m. Next is Yaehachi, a take-out restaurant on the basement floor that specializes in nori bento (bento boxes utilizing dried seaweed). The restaurant uses rice cooked in a rice cooker and a special typed of seaweed made from a combination of two types of seaweed from Mikawa Bay in Aichi Prefecture. The nori bento, which is served with side dishes using koji (malted rice), is a must-try. The restaurant is open from 11:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. From Carefully Grown Rice to Sake Ice Cream! Explore the Exciting Shops at Yanmar Tokyo Photo：Ice cream One of the tenants on the first floor of Yanmar Tokyo is KOME-SHIN, a store inspired by the concept of "enjoying rice like wine." Here, rice retailers offer a wide selection of different varieties of rice grown from all over Japan, allowing customers to buy the rice that suits their palate. The rice is bottled, so customers can purchase it as if they were selecting a bottle of wine, all while enjoying the fashionable atmosphere of the store. Alongside KOME-SHIN is SAKEICE Tokyo Shop, where patrons can enjoy sake ice cream. The ice cream sold at this store is mixed with sake, giving it a high alcohol content. Because of this, minors and patrons coming by car are advised to keep this in mind. Of course, non-alcoholic versions are also available. The store has developed products in collaboration with sake breweries from all over Japan, allowing visitors to experience Japan's rich sake culture through a treat that everyone is familiar with. Yanmar Tokyo's HANASAKA Campaign Is Underway! HANASAKA Ohanami Weekend (Hanasaka Cherry Blossom Viewing Weekend) was held for 3 days from January 13, the opening day of Yanmar Tokyo (Tokyo), at a special venue on the 8th floor where a real cherry tree with cherry blossoms was set up along with a photo spot for taking pictures. The event was very popular and visitors could take pictures at the photo spot and post them on social networking sites with a special hashtag to receive a vacuum-packed packet of rice. Currently, Yanmar is holding a campaign in which participants who follow Yanmar's official Twitter account and retweet campaign posts will be entered into a drawing to win a NIPLUX NECK RELAX, a neck stiffness relief product. Up to 10 people will win prizes. The campaign is currently underway, so be sure to join in! Yanmar Tokyo Summary Photo：Yanmar Tokyo Yanmar Tokyo is a hub where Yanmar, which has been involved in agriculture for many years through its efforts to reduce environmental impact and create an appealing food culture, communicates the joy of continuing to take on new challenges. Today, when a sustainable society is becoming more and more important, the Yanmar Tokyo Building can serve as an important base for promoting a sustainable society to a wider audience. The building is directly connected to Tokyo Station making it easy to access. Enjoy learning about Japan's food culture and the environment!