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Video article 3:23
Shiga Otsu City Sightseeing! Full of installations with a sense of Japanese tradition! Video introduction to the nature and cityscape of ancient times!
Travel Nature Things to Do- 46 plays
- YouTube
Video introduction of sightseeing in Otsu City, Shiga Prefecture This video shows a man traveling from Otsu, Shiga to Kyoto, while touring historic temples, enjoying natural scenery, and interacting with locals on an atmospheric shopping street. Otsu is home to Lake Biwa, the largest freshwater lake in Japan, and Biwako Valley, a resort complex that offers panoramic views of Lake Biwa from 1,100-meters in the air. It's a treasure trove of tourist attractions, with everything from nature to photogenic townscapes that capture the long history of the area, and can be enjoyed by children and adults alike. Enryakuji and Other Famous Temples Around Otsu, Shiga Photo:Enryakuji Temple, Mt. Hiei, Shiga Prefecture Besides Enryakuji Temple on Mt. Hiei (Mt. Hiezan), the Lake Biwa area is dotted with many famous and historic temples. In addition to Enryakuji Temple, we recommend visiting Omi Shrine (近江神宮, Omi Jingu), Hiyoshi Taisha Shrine, and other power spots as well. [Video] 0:14 - Walking the Nyoi Kodo to Miidera Temple ●Enryakuji Temple Enryakuji Temple is the head temple of the Tendai sect of Buddhism with a history dating back more than 1,200 years. It's said that monks and warrior monks have been coming here to study since ancient times, and the temple has produced famous monks, including as Honen and Shinran. It's a recommended power spot where visitors can experience a moment of clarity and confidence. ●Miidera Temple One of the most famous of Shiga Prefecture's ancient temples. It's also known for its beautiful cherry blossoms in spring. Climbing the stone steps, there's an observatory from which you can view the majestic Lake Biwa. The spacious temple grounds are home to many national treasures and stone walls using a unique type of masonry. Many of Japan's most notable cultural assets can be found here. ●Saikyoji Temple The head temple of the Tendai Shinmori Sect of Buddhism, which has more than 450 branch temples throughout Japan. It's said to have been founded by Prince Shotoku. The main hall of the temple is sublime, and the Kyakuden (reception hall), which was built from the remains of Fushimi Castle, has many attractions, including fusuma paintings of by the Kano school, a famous school of painting prominent in 15th century Japan. Akechi Mitsuhide, who contributed to the restoration of Saikyoji Temple after it suffered damage during the Siege of Mt. Hiei in 1571, is enshrined at Saikyoji Temple, along with the tombs of his relatives. Photo:Omi Shrine, Shiga Prefecture ●Omi Shrine Omi Shrine is dedicated to Emperor Tenchi, who is said to be the founder of the Hyakunin Isshu Karuta, an ancient card game involving classical Japanese poetry, and attracts many visitors each year. The shrine is said to bring prosperity to business, ward off bad luck, ensure safe childbirth, bring academic success, protect one's family, cure illnesses, and protect against traffic accidents, among other blessings. Surrounded by greenery, the main approach to the shrine is a soothing space. ●Hiyoshi Taisha Shrine Located at the foot of Mt. Hiei, this is the head shrine of the Hiyoshi, Hie, and Sanno shrines, of which more than 3,800 exist in Japan. Since the shrine was located in an unlucky direction from the capital during the Heian period (794-1185), it's known for its blessings to ward off bad luck and evil spirits. A monkey named Masaru is said to be a messenger of the gods at the shrine, and symbolizes protection against evil, and charms and amulets with Masaru are also sold at the shrine. Immerse Yourself in the Ancient History and Culture of Otsu After touring famous ancient temples, you can experience the culture passed down to the common people of Otsu. Otsu-e, an art form popular among commoners during the Edo period (1603-1867), has a unique design that many visitors find attractive. You can also try your hand at painting clay bells resembling oni (Japanese ogre demons). Also, be sure to visit the Otsu Festival Float Exhibition Center, an exhibition hall themed on the Otsu Festival, one of the three major festivals in the area. In Otsu Hyakucho, visitors can enjoy a tour of traditional shops where they can buy a wide variety of souvenirs. Along the way, you can find the famous Miidera Chikara Mochi rice cakes. A map of Otsu Hyakucho is also available, so you can enjoy exploring the town without a guide. That being said, you can also take advantage of the guided tours of Otsu Hyakucho. It is a unique opportunity to experience the unique culture of Otsu. [Video] 0:48 - Sightseeing Around Otsu Hyakucho A Model Course for Sightseeing in Otsu Photo:Miidera Temple, Shiga Prefecture If you want to enjoy Otsu to the fullest, we recommend taking a tour of the temples and shrines to experience the history of Otsu. You can also visit Miidera Temple, which appears in the video. [Video] 0:38 - Miidera Temple There's also a course specifically for female photographers, which includes Saikyoji Temple, where participants can stroll around photogenic temples, and more. [Video] 2:04 - Saikyoji Temple If you're looking to enjoy the beautiful scenery in the area, check out Mt. Hiei and enjoy a sanctuary in the sky where the entire mountain is considered part of the temple. Shuttle buses are available to take visitors around the mountain. Travelers can also collect shuin stamps from the different temples, up to a dozen of them. There are also courses related to famous historical figures, such as Akechi Mitsuhide. Be sure to check them out! Sushi, Confectioneries, and More – Experience the Cuisine of Otsu! Photo:Funa-zushi, a specialty of Shiga Prefecture Funa-zushi is one of the most popular dishes in Otsu. Sakamoto-ya is a long-established shop that sells funa-zushi, and is designated as a Tangible Cultural Property of Japan. Sakamotoya's funa-zushi is made with a rare species of wild carp from Lake Biwa, and local Omi rice. We hope you will enjoy this traditional Japanese food made with a time-tested family recipe. [Video] 0:53 - Ganso Sakamotoya In Otsu, there's also Yaoyo, a shop that sells pickled vegetables under the Imperial Household Agency's warrant. This store was established in 1850 and has been around since the Edo period. In addition to its pickled vegetables, the shop also sells its specialty Nagarazuke, which are Omi turnips pickled in sake lees, for just a few hundred yen per bunch. You can also buy in bulk for souvenirs. [Video] 1:03 - Yaoyo If you're a fan of traditional Japanese sweets, consider dropping by Kano Shojuan Sunai no Sato (叶匠寿庵 寿長生の郷). On the expansive garden-like grounds, there is an atmospheric traditional Japanese-style teahouse, a restaurant, and a confectionery shop as well. Enjoy the delicate sweets made from carefully selected ingredients and the greenery outside the window. Experience the seasons and indulge your senses in a relaxing environment. [Video] 1:34 - Kano Shojuan Sunai no Sato Hirasansou offers Yamanobe Ryori, a type of cuisine that uses seasonal ingredients foraged from the nearby mountains of Otsu. Visitors can enjoy wild vegetables in spring, sweetfish in summer, matsutake mushrooms in autumn, and wild boar and bear in winter. The restaurant utilizes a wide variety of delicious ingredients nurtured in Japan's Shiga region. [Video] 1:46 - Hirasansou Hotel Koo Otsu Hyakucho – A Traditional Japanese Townhouse Turned Hotel While you're in Otsu, use this opportunity to stay at a hotel with a different kind of atmosphere. Hotel Koo Otsu Hyakucho is located inside of a shopping arcade. This is an accommodation facility with a new concept that opened in August 2018. Guest rooms are scattered along the shopping street and the Old Tokaido Road, with a total of 13 rooms consisting of 5 suite-type rooms and 8 hotel-type guest rooms. The townhouses, which are more than 100 years old, have been fully renovated. All rooms are equipped with bathrooms and toilets, famous designer furniture, and top-quality bedding, allowing guests to experience a luxury space that cannot be found in ordinary hotels or ryokan. [Video] 1:18 - Hotel Koo Otsu Hyakucho Summary of Sightseeing in Otsu, Shiga Photo:The view of Otsu from Miidera Temple, Shiga Prefecture In addition to Lake Biwa, Otsu, Shiga is a hidden treasure trove of wonderful sightseeing spots that have yet to be fully recognized. Otsu is a town where time seems to have stood still, as it still retains the atmosphere of a Japan from a bygone era. There are plenty of natural recreational activities for children as well as adults, as well as photogenic tours for women, and even stylish date plans. We hope you get the chance to experience Otsu, a place with unique history and traditions, unlike the neighboring city of Kyoto. 【TripAdvisor】Otsu, Shiga https://www.tripadvisor.com/Tourism-g298202-Otsu_Shiga_Prefecture_Kinki-Vacations.html -
Video article 3:59
A powerful image of the cliff "Itsuura Coast" in Kitaibaraki City, Ibaraki Prefecture! Don't miss the dynamic sight from aerial photography that you can't usually see!
Travel Nature- 54 plays
- YouTube
Video introduction of "Itsuura Beach" in Kitaibaraki City, Ibaraki Prefecture, Japan This video, titled "[4K] Superb Aerial Views of the Izura Coast in Kita-Ibaraki, Chiba" ([4K] 絶景空撮:五浦海岸(茨城県北茨城市)の海岸絶景 Superb view of the coast at Izura Coast), was uploaded by "AQUA Geo Graphic." The video introduces the Izura Coast of Ibaraki Prefecture. As its name suggests, the Izura Coast (五浦, Izura, lit. "Five Inlets") in Ibaraki Prefecture consists of five inlets: Koizura, Daiizura, Tsubaki-iso, Naka-iso, and Hata-iso. Its address puts it in Kita-Ibaraki, but it is located on the border with Fukushima Prefecture. The Izura Coast belongs to Hanazono-Hananuki Prefectural Natural Park, and has been selected as one of the Top 100 Beaches of Japan, 100 Soundscapes of Japan, Top 100 Views of Ibaraki, Top 100 White Sand and Green Pine Beaches of Japan, and Top 100 Geological Sites of Japan. It is also called "Kanto no Matsushima" because of its black pine trees and is a scenic spot with plenty to see and do. It is also said that the large carbonate concretion reefs along the Izura Coast are most likely derived from natural gas gushing from oil and gas fields that existed on the surrounding seafloor. In this video, you can enjoy rare images taken from the Pacific Ocean side. The Izura Coast, Deeply Associated With Okakura Kakuzo Photo:Rokkakudo, Izura Coast , Chiba Prefecture The Izura Coast is closely associated with Okakura Kakuzo (Okakura Tenshin), an artist and thinker of Japan's Meiji Period (1868-1912 AD). Okakura Kakuzo's former residence with its magnificent garden and Rokkakudo, which can be seen from 0:40 in the video, still stand on the beach and are well known as tourist attractions on the Izura Coast. Rokkakudo was designed by Okakura Kakuzo himself as a place of thought. It was damaged by the Great East Japan Earthquake in 2011, and what can be seen today was rebuilt in 2012. Beautiful Views of Cape Otsu Photo:Cape Otsu on the Izura Coast, Chiba Prefecture The spectacular Cape Otsu can be seen from 3:24 in the video. The cliffs eroded by the rough waves of the Izura Coast are nine-sided and layered, and the video provides a dynamic image of them. The overlapping oddly shaped rocks of the Goura Coast, which is said to be the art of nature, will fascinate the viewer with its mystical power. Ibaraki's Izura Coast as a Tourist Destination Photo:Rokkakudo and the Izura Onsen hotel Ibaraki Prefecture's Izura Coast is a popular tourist destination, and with so many attractions, it's a place that can easily be enjoyed over a few days by staying at a hotel or other such accommodation. Ibaraki Prefecture's Izura Coast is a popular tourist destination, and with so many attractions, it's a place that can easily be enjoyed over a few days by staying at a hotel or other such accommodation. It's said to be a sacred place for modern Japanese painting, and visitors can enjoy an art museum, the Okakura Tenshin Memorial Park, the Okakura Tenshin Location Set used for filming a movie in 2013, and the fishery history museum "Yo Soro." Other attractions include playing on the seashore, swimming, and fishing in the vicinity, making it a fun place to visit even if you're not a history buff. In addition, there's Izura Onsen (hot springs) and other hot springs, which attract many tourists. Regarding local cuisine, the area is famous for monkfish, which can be enjoyed at certain restaurants even for lunch. Summary of Ibaraki Prefecture's Izura Coast This video introducing the Izura Coast, where you can feel the rich nature and history of Japan, can be enjoyed in beautiful 4K quality. This scenic spot is popular among both Japanese people as well as foreign tourists. The Izura Coast is an easy trip from Tokyo, and there is a parking lot at Cape Izura Park, where a memorial tower is located. If you're looking for a spectacular view in Kita-Ibaraki, we highly recommend checking out the Izura Coast! 【TripAdvisor】Izura Coast https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g780842-d3735046-Reviews-Izura_Beach-Kitaibaraki_Ibaraki_Prefecture_Kanto.html -
Video article 15:26
A Sea of Azaleas on Mt. Tsurumi in Beppu, Oita! From the Summit of the Mountain to the Pilgrimage of the Seven Lucky Gods, There's Plenty to See and Do Here!
Travel Nature- 55 plays
- YouTube
Introducing the Miyamikirishima of Mt. Tsurumi in Oita Beppu This video, titled "JG☆☆☆8K HDR Oita, Beppu Mt. Tsurumi Miyamakirishima Flower Season" (JG☆☆☆8K HDR 大分 別府 鶴見岳のミヤマキリシ Oita, Beppu Mt. Tsurumi Miyamakirishima Flower Season), was uploaded by "JAPAN GEOGRAPHIC." The video introduces the ride up the Beppu Ropeway on Mt. Tsurumi, along with the beautiful flowers blooming atop the mountain and the breathtaking views that await you! The Flowers Blooming on Mt. Tsurumi Photo:Kyushu Azaleas of Mt. Tsurumi The flowers blooming atop Mt. Tsurumi are Kyushu azaleas. They are a semi-deciduous shrub of the azalea family and stand 0.3 to 1 meters tall. They produce purple-red flowers as well as peach-red and light-red flowers, and are at their best from late May to mid-June in Japan. A unique plant found only in the high mountains of Japan's Kyushu Region, it's distributed on Mt. Kirishima, Mt. Aso, Mt. Kokonoe, Mt. Unzen, etc. On Mt. Tsurumi in Beppu, Oita, in Japan's Kyushu region, approximately 5,000 Kyushu azaleas bloom all at once every spring. [Video] 0:45 - Kyushu Azaleas The contrast between the pink carpet of azaleas, the mountains in the distance, and the blue skies makes this a truly photogenic spot! You can see the birds chirping and butterflies fluttering about in the video as well. [Video] 10:49 - Azaleas and the Mountains of Kyushu The Seasonal Views of Mt. Tsurumi: Autumn Leaves, Rime, and More Photo:Frost-covered plants on Mt. Tsurumi Mt. Tsurumi is 1,375 meters above sea level, located in the east of Aso-Kuju National Park, and is designated as one of the Top 300 Mountains of Japan. In early summer, the azaleas are at their best, as shown in the video, but autumn is also a popular time of year as visitors can enjoy the lovely autumn foliage. From the top of the mountain, you can see Mt. Yufudake and Mt. Kuju. The best time to view the autumn leaves is from late October to mid-November. Furthermore, Mt. Tsurumi is famous for its rime in winter. Rime is a phenomenon that occurs when the temperature drops below freezing, covering the trees and other flora with frost. When this happens, the entire mountain is transformed into a silvery white world. Mt. Tsurumi is a mountain rich in nature where you can enjoy completely different views in each season. Mt. Tsurumi, a Popular Mountain for Climbing and Hiking Photo:Mt. Tsurumi and the Beppu Ropeway, Beppu, Oita Mt. Tsurumi is a popular mountain amongst hikers and climbers. It's said to be a relatively easy mountain to climb, even for beginners, due to its gentle gradient. Since it is a popular mountain, it's likely that there are many other climbers on the mountain. For safety reasons, beginners should always climb with another person. The summit of Mt. Tsurumi can also be reached via the Beppu Ropeway. The ropeway runs from Beppu Kogen Station, located halfway up the mountain at an elevation of 500 meters, to Tsurumi Sanjo Station at an elevation of 1,300 meters. [Video] 0:10 - Ascending Mt. Tsurumi via the Beppu Ropeway If you take the Beppu ropeway up to the summit station, it takes only 10 minutes to reach the top of the mountain. Some people ascend and descend the mountain without using the ropeway, but you can also hike up and take the ropeway down on the way back. Temples, Souvenirs, and Other Things to Do on Mt. Tsurumi Photo:A shrine on Mt. Tsurumi, Beppu, Oita Not far from Tsurumi Sanjo Station, there is an observatory from which you can enjoy a spectacular view of Beppu Bay. There are also walking paths that lead to several observation points. In addition to the scenery, Tsurumi Sanjo Gongen Shrine is located in front of the station, and you can see the shrine's red torii gate in the video. Furthermore, there are many attractions on Mt. Tsurumi, such as the Pilgrimage of the Seven Lucky Gods and other places of worship. [Video] 0:42 - Tsurumi Sanjo Gongen Shrine The summit of Mt. Tsurumi also has a variety of souvenir shops. In addition to the station store, there is also the Kyushu Shochu-kan (州焼酎館) in front of the main parking lot, which sells a variety of souvenirs, from wine and other alcoholic beverages to handicrafts. Staying Safe on Mt. Tsurumi Mt. Tsurumi is a popular mountain for hiking and climbing, but it is also an active volcano. In the case of an eruption, there are disaster prevention maps and a disaster prevention guidebook for climbers which are available online. It's recommended that you download them in advance to ensure safe climbing. Disaster prevention maps and guidebooks can be downloaded in PDF format from the Oita Prefecture official website. You can also view live disaster prevention cameras installed by the Japan Meteorological Agency. Things to Do Near the Beppu Ropeway Mt. Tsurumi and the Beppu Ropeway are located a ways from the city, but if you head back to Beppu, there are a number of things to see and do. Below is a short list of things to check out when visiting the area: Jigoku Meguri - A Tour of the Hells of Beppu The Jigoku Meguri tour takes you on a tour of eight of the most famous hot springs in Beppu. It's a tradition that is said to date back to the Edo Period, and takes about 2 hours to complete. All of the hot springs have something about them that is unique, so it makes for an exciting tour. Hours: 8:00 am - 5:00 pm Admission Fee: Adults (High school students and older): 2,200 yen, Children: 1,000 yen. ※Discounts available for groups of 30 or more Beppu Park Located in the center of Beppu, Beppu Park is a large park with many flower gardens. The park also has a variety of athletic facilities, and during the spring, cherry blossoms bloom beautifully throughout the park. Hours: Open 24 hours. (Parking available from 8:00 am to 9:00 pm) Admission Fee: Free (Parking is 100 yen/hr.) Rakutenchi Rakutenchi is an amusement park for children with a number of rides. Additionally, there are a variety of animals inside the park and even petting zoos where children can interact with them. It's a great place to check out if you're traveling with kids. Hours: 9:30 am - 5:00 pm Closures: Closed on most Tuesdays. Please check the official website for more information Admission Fee: Adults (Middle school students and older): 1,300 yen, Children (Ages 3 to elementary school): 600 yen, Infants (Ages 2 and under): Free Weather on Mt. Tsurumi and What to Wear During May and June, when the azaleas on Mt. Tsurumi are at their best, the weather is quite warm. As Japan is nearing the end of spring and transitioning to summer at this point, the average temperatures for May and June are 19° C (66° F) and 23° C (73° F) respectively. Because of this, it's recommended that you dress light, with t-shirts and shorts. If you're planning on hiking up the mountains, we also recommend wearing hiking shoes or at the very least, some good walking shoes. Summary of Mt. Tsurumi in Beppu, Oita Photo:Beppu Onsen, Oita That concludes our introduction to azaleas on Mt. Tsurumi. At the foot of the eastern side of Mt. Tsurumi is Beppu Onsen, one of the most famous hot spring resorts in Japan. You can relax after a hike up Mt. Tsurumi at Beppu Onsen and enjoy a delicious meal there as well! You can also enjoy a lovely view of the city of Beppu, so don't forget to bring a camera! ◆Beppu Ropeway◆ Address: 10-7 Aza-Kanbara, Oaza-Minami-Tateishi, Beppu-city, Oita, Japan 874-0000 Hours: Summer (March 15 - November 14): 9:00 am - 5:30 pm (Last ascent 5:00 pm, last descent 5:30 pm), Winter (November 15 - March 14): 9:00 am - 5:00 pm (Last ascent 4:30 pm, last descent 5:00 pm). ※For nighttime hours please contact the Beppu Ropeway directly. Telephone: 0977-22-2278 Ropeway fees (round trip): Adults: 1,800 yen, Children (Ages 4 to elementary school): 900 yen. ※Discounts available for groups. Access: ・By train (bus): Take a bus from the West Exit of JR Beppu Station and get off at Beppu Ropeway ・By car: A 5-minute drive on Prefectural Road 11 from the Beppu IC of the Higashi-Kyushu Expressway toward Yufuin (parking available) 【Official Website】Beppu Ropeway 【TripAdvisor】Beppu Ropeway -
Video article 3:43
Ome City, TokyoOme City, TokyoOme City, Tokyo, one hour from the center of Tokyo, surrounded by great nature, experience Ome's sightseeing spots in this video! Full of activities, gourmet food and attractions! Experience the sightseeing spots in Ome, surrounded by great nature, in this video! Full of activities, gourmet food, and attractions!
Travel Nature Food & Drink- 50 plays
- YouTube
Ome City, Tokyo "Ome Sightseeing" Video Introduction This video, titled "Ome, Tokyo|Tourism PR "Another World Just an Hour the Heart of Tokyo|Long ver." (東京青梅 観光PR「都心から約1時間の別世界」長編 Ome City Tokyo Long ver.), was uploaded by "Ome Blue|Ome, Tokyo Sightseeing Video Channel" (Ome Blue 東京青梅 観光動画チャンネル). The city of Ome, located just an hour from Tokyo, is an otherworldly place surrounded by nature. Check out the video to learn about the joy of sightseeing in Ome, including traditional indigo dyeing experiences, delicious gourmet food, and activities that you can enjoy in the surrounding nature of Ome. Ome – Just 1 Hour From the Heart of Tokyo Photo:Mt. Mitake, Ome, Tokyo Ome, Tokyo, located in Japan's Kanto region, is located in the northwestern part of the Tama area, just one train ride from Shinjuku. Despite being within day-trip distance from central Tokyo, the city boasts spectacular natural beauty. There are many sightseeing spots in Ome, including Mt. Mitake, where visitors can enjoy hiking, Okutama, a place with breathtaking seasonal scenery, and Mitake Gorge, where visitors can enjoy a variety of aquatic activities. Ome is also home to many culinary delights, featuring dishes made using local vegetables and sake made from the famous water of Okutama, which will satisfy both your stomach and your spirit. With the Aizome Experience (indigo dyeing experience), visitors can try their hand at making Omejima, a traditional textile of Ome that has been produced since Edo-period Japan. You can also see the indigo-dyeing experience in the video via the below timestamp. [Video] 2:33 - Indigo-Dyeing Experience Ome is a great place for sightseeing, as visitors can enjoy nature, recreational activities, gourmet food, culture, and more. Highlights and Sightseeing Spots in Okutama, a Place Surrounded by Mountains Photo:Autumn leaves at Lake Okutama, Tokyo Okutama is a must-visit place if you're sightseeing in Ome, Tokyo. In the Okutama area, visitors can enjoy exciting activities in a scenic natural setting. Lake Okutama, with its beautiful rural scenery, is popular for hiking, as it offers different scenery in each of Japan's four seasons. SUP (stand-up paddleboarding) is another activity that can be enjoyed at Lake Okutama, and allows visitors to ride a board on the quiet surface of the lake. You can also rent a bicycle and enjoy trekking through the mountains of Okutama. Hybrid electric bikes are also available for rent, so even those who are not confident in their stamina can enjoy trekking in Okutama comfortably. [Video] 2:20 - Activities in Okutama Leaving Lake Okutama and moving to the Nippara area, you'll find the Nippara Limestone Caves, a sightseeing spot created by Mother Nature. The Nippara Limestone Caves are the largest limestone caves in Japan's Kanto region, and there are many attractions to see within the caves, including Buddhist statues and giant frog-shaped rocks. The temperature inside the cave is around 11°C year-round, making it cool in summer and comparatively warm in winter, making it a pleasant place to walk around. The Tama River, Mt. Mitake, and Other Highlights – Explore the Beautiful Views of the Mitake Gorge Photo:Gyokudo Art Museum The Mitake Gorge hiking course, which starts at JR Ikusabata Station and takes you along the Mitake Gorge Trail to visit tourist spots, can be completed in about an hour and a half on foot. You can also take a break from hiking and stop by the Ozawa Sake Brewery for a sake tasting. [Video] 0:48 - Ozawa Sake Brewery Sake Tasting Mitake Gorge is also known for its beautiful autumn foliage, and in the fall, visitors can stroll along the clear streams enjoying while admiring the changing of the leaves. Mitake Gorge also offers a variety of water-based activities, such as canoeing and rafting. Whether canoeing down the river in the great outdoors or enjoying a thrilling rafting session, you're sure to experience the beauty of the Mitake Gorge. [Video] 2:12 - Canoeing and SUP in Mitake Gorge Musashi Mitake Shrine, a Power Spot at the Top of Mt. Mitake Photo:Musashi Mitake Shrine at the summit of Mt. Mitake Mt. Mitake has long been worshipped as a sacred mountain, and Musashi Mitake Shrine, said to be a power spot, is located at the summit of Mt. Mitake. The guardian deity of the shrine is the Japanese wolf Oguchimagami, also known as O-Inu-sama. The eyes of O-Inu-sama, which are depicted on a talisman with the power to ward off fire and protect against theft, are in the shape of a crescent moon. [Video] 1:36 - Musashi Mitake Shrine Along the mountain path leading to Musashi Mitake Shrine, there is also an ancient zelkova tree, which legend has it was planted by Yamato Takeru during his expeditions to the east. Check out the video for a close-up of the zelkova tree. [Video] 1:18 - The Jindai Keyaki Zelkova To get to Mt. Mitake, first take the Nishi-Tokyo Bus from Mitake Station on the JR Ome Line to Takimoto Station on the Mitake Tozan Railway. Walking from Takimoto Station to Mt. Mitake takes about 60 minutes, so we recommended taking the cable car to Mt. Mitake. Be sure to check out the scenery from the cable car as well. [Video] 1:09 - The Takimoto Station Cable Car Mt. Mitake also offers easy hiking courses that can be enjoyed by both children and the elderly. Please check the Mitake Tozan Railway website for information on various courses. Summary of Ome, Tokyo Sightseeing If you still haven't watched the video yet, be sure to check it out, as it's filled with all the charms of Ome. Ome is a place rich in natural beauty, but it is also a place where you can enjoy old-fashioned Showa-retro atmospheres. The Showa Retro Goods Museum exhibits candy shop packages and posters from Japan's Showa period, and is sure to be a memorable experience. It's a great place for Instagrammers and photographers as well. The museum also serves delicious food, which is a must when sightseeing in Ome. Mayugura, which has a gallery attached to it, serves nutritious and well-balanced meals centering on seasonal vegetables. The plum manju (steamed buns) at Kobaien, a plum confectionery, are perfect as souvenirs. You can also enjoy them inside the restaurant, which also has a tatami room. [Video] 2:48 - Plum Manju and the Showa Retro Goods Museum A trip to Ome, Tokyo, will leave you feeling like you're in a different world. We hope you enjoy a satisfying sightseeing trip to Ome that will stimulate all 5 senses! 【Official Website】Ome City Website https://www.city.ome.tokyo.jp/ 【TripAdvisor】Ome, Tokyo https://www.tripadvisor.com/Tourism-g1060902-Ome_Tokyo_Prefecture_Kanto-Vacations.html -
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Tohoku in COOL JAPAN VIDEOS Photo Contests: Hot Springs, Festivals, Snowscapes, and More – 10 Beautiful Photos of Japan's Tohoku Region!
Travel Nature Festivals & Events- 203 views
COOL JAPAN VIDEOS is always holding photo contests. This time, we have selected photos that convey the beauty of Japan's Tohoku region from among those submitted to our past photo contests. From popular tourist attractions to picturesque shots of natural phenomena, we've got an amazing list of photos lined up for you to enjoy! COOL JAPAN VIDEOS is a social, video curation site that introduces the charms of Japan to people around the world who are interested in Japan. Our photo contests allow you to participate and even win with photos taken via your smartphone! Stick around to learn more! ■Table of Contents - Tohoku in Past Photo Contests Ginzan Onsen (Yamagata Prefecture) Risshakuji Temple (Yamagata Prefecture) Fudosawa Bridge (Fukushima Prefecture) Goshikinuma Ponds (Fukushima Prefecture) Zao Fox Village (Miyagi Prefecture) Okama Crater (Miyagi Prefecture) An igloo (Yokote, Akita Prefecture) Ashino Park (Goshogawara, Aomori Prefecture) Tsutanuma Pond (Towada, Aomori Prefecture) A white rainbow at Hachimantai (Hachimantai, Iwate Prefecture) - Features of COOL JAPAN VIDEOS Photo Contests - Current Photo Contest - Summary of Tohoku in COOL JAPAN VIDEOS Photo Contests Tohoku in Past Photo Contests We have picked out some amazing photos of Japan's Tohoku region from among the many wonderful entries that convey the charms of Japan. We'll also introduce some popular photo spots as well! Enjoy! COOLJAPANVIDEOS Photographer: もつ Location: Ginzan Onsen (Yamagata Prefecture) Highlights of Ginzan Onsen, a Popular Tourist Attraction Lined with wooden, multi-story Western-style inns, Ginzan Onsen has a retro-modern townscape reminiscent of Japan's Taisho period (1912-1926). The best time to visit Ginzan Onsen, which attracts photographers from all over the world, is during the snowy winter season (January to February). The landscape illuminated by the orange glow of gas lamps, essential for a nostalgic atmosphere, makes for a tasteful and chic photo. Onsen ryokan (hot spring inns) with open-air baths where visitors can bathe while viewing the snowy scenery are very popular. Enjoy the fantastic Ginzan Onsen covered with snow. A Video Article About Snowscapes in Japan Video article 7:26 Japan's Most Beautiful Snow-Covered Scenery and Popular Tourist Spots That'll Look Great on Your Instagram! The Country, Dyed in a Beautiful White, Shows a Different Face Than Most Are Used To YouTube COOLJAPANVIDEOS Photographer: Yuta Aihara Location: Risshakuji Temple (Yamagata Prefecture) Highlights of Risshakuji Temple, a Popular Tourist Attraction Hoshuzan Risshakuji Temple is the setting for the famous haiku poem Such stillness Sinking into the rocks The shrill of the cicadas by the master haiku poet Matsuo Basho in his travelogue The Narrow Road to the Deep North. The temple is also known as a 'yamadera' (mountain temple) and belongs to the Tendai Sect of Buddhism in Yamagata City, Yamagata Prefecture. Climb the narrow stairs to reach the top of the temple. The platform, which juts out from the cliff, offers a breathtakingly beautiful view and is a popular photo spot for visitors. A Video Article About Risshakuji Temple in Yamagata Prefecture Video article 3:32 1,015 Steps to the Top of Risshaku-ji Temple in Yamagata, Yamagata Prefecture. A National Site of Scenic Beauty, With a View That Moved Even the Famous Poet Matsuo Basho! YouTube COOLJAPANVIDEOS Photographer: 山川 さおり Location: Fudosawa Bridge (Fukushima Prefecture) Highlights of Tsubakuro Valley, a Popular Tourist Attraction Fudosawa Bridge spans the scenic Tsubakuro Valley along the Bandai-Azuma Skyline. In autumn, it's a spectacular spot to photograph the autumn leaves, and if the sky over Fukushima City is overcast, there is a good chance to see a sea of clouds. If the live camera on Route 115 shows clear views of Fudosawa and Jododaira, consider driving to the top of the clouds. We guarantee you'll take photos that will make you think you're in heaven. A Video Article About the Aizu-Tadami Koyo-go Steam Locomotive Video article 2:06 Aizu-Tadami Koyo-go - A Steam Locomotive Running Through Beautiful Autumn Foliage! Selected As One of the "Top Ten Railway Lines With Beautiful Autumn Foliage," This Train Still Runs As a Classic Steam Locomotive! YouTube COOLJAPANVIDEOS Photographer: めんま Location: Goshikinuma Ponds (Fukushima Prefecture) Highlights of Goshikinuma Pond, a Popular Tourist Attraction Goshikinuma is a group of lakes and swamps created by the eruption of Mount Bandai in Aizu. The water of the lakes come in a variety of colors, such as emerald green and cobalt blue, fascinating visitors and leading to the nickname the 'Lakes of Mystery." From mid-October to early November, the best season for viewing the autumn foliage, visitors are mesmerized by the colorful autumn leaves and the beautiful ponds. Aonuma, which has a more mysterious atmosphere than the other lakes, is especially recommended. The contrast with the autumn leaves is exceptional. A Video Article About Goshikinuma Video article 4:05 This Place Screams Instagram! The Cobalt Blue Waters of Fukushima's "Goshikinuma" Are Out of This World! YouTube COOLJAPANVIDEOS Photographer: だいだい@名前のつかない写真展 Location: Zao Fox Village (Miyagi Prefecture) Highlights of Zao Fox Village, a Popular Tourist Attraction Located in Shiroishi, Miyagi, Zao Fox Village is Japan's only zoo for foxes. The zoo has more than 100 foxes of various species that are raised free range, and visitors can see them from up close. The best time to visit is from spring to early summer, as holding a newborn fox cub is a popular activity. Visitors can capture the cute foxes in their natural habitat during a 2-3 hour stay. A Video Article About Zao Fox Village in Miyagi Prefecture Video article 4:58 Play With Adorable Foxes at Zao Fox Village in Miyagi Prefecture. This Facility, Where Approximately 100 Foxes Run Free, Is Sure to Make for a Memorable Experience! YouTube COOLJAPANVIDEOS Photographer: Syohei photography Location: Okama Crater (Miyagi Prefecture) Highlights of Zao's Okama Crater, a Popular Tourist Attraction One of the 100 Famous Japanese Mountains in Japan, Mt. Zao is located on the border between Miyagi and Yamagata prefectures. Okama Crater, a popular tourist attraction there, is a crater lake surrounded by three mountains and is a symbol of Zao, along with the famous ice monsters (ice-covered trees). Visitors can enjoy Okama Crater from late April to early November. Be sure to bring a jacket, as temperatures are low even during the summer months. According to locals, the recommended time to visit is in the morning, even on clear days. You may be able to see the stunning emerald green surface of the water. Please note that the dedicated road to the crater is closed during the winter. A Video Article About Zao in Yamagata Prefecture Video article 2:13 Zao - Where Fantastic Ice Trees Stretch as Far as the Eye Can See. Referred to as "Ice Monsters" This Destination in Yamagata Prefecture Is Very Popular Among Foreign Tourists YouTube COOLJAPANVIDEOS Photographer: 小西直昭 Location: An igloo (Yokote, Akita Prefecture) Highlights of the Yokote Snow Festival, a Popular Tourist Attraction The Yokote Snow Festival is said to have a history of approximately 450 years as a festival where people can enjoy igloos at a small New Year's event, and the Brahma dedicated to Asahi Okayama Shrine. Held annually on February 15 and 16, children serve amazake (sweet sake) and mochi (rice cakes) inside the approximately 80 igloos built in the city, while welcoming guests into the igloos. The candles lit in the igloos create a spectacular atmosphere. A Video Article About the Yokote Snow Festival of Akita Prefecture Video article 5:52 Enjoy the Pure White Snowy Landscape at the Traditional "Yokote Snow Festival" in Yokote, Akita Prefecture! Experience Warm Rice Cakes in a Giant Igloo and a Fantastical Silver World! YouTube COOLJAPANVIDEOS Photographer: Lily0321 Location: Ashino Park (Goshogawara, Aomori Prefecture) Highlights of Ashino Park, a Popular Tourist Attraction in Aomori Prefecture Ashino Park is said to be one of the best places on the Tsugaru Peninsula to enjoy the cherry blossoms. The best time to view the cherry blossoms is usually from late April to early May, when more than 1,500 cherry trees of all sorts of varieties can be seen in full bloom. The cherry blossoms blooming along the lakeside are so beautiful that they overwhelm onlookers. The scenery of Tsugaru Railway's an old-fashioned train 'Run Melos-go, named after a popular children's story, passing through the tunnel of cherry blossoms in full bloom creates a popular photo spot for those looking take pictures of the cherry blossoms. A Video Article About Popular Tourist Attractions in Aomori Prefecture Video article 2:59 After a Harsh Winter, the Beauty of Aomori's Spring, From the Mountains All the Way to the Sea, Shows Its Colors! Enjoy the Cherry Blossoms and Fresh Greenery of Aomori's Popular Sightseeing Destinations! YouTube COOLJAPANVIDEOS Photographer: こーさ | Kousa Kobayashi Location: Tsutanuma Pond (Towada, Aomori Prefecture) Highlights of Tsutanuma, a Popular Tourist Attraction Tsutanuma is a popular tourist attraction in Towada, Aomori, with its fiery red autumn leaves. On a day when the wind is calm, the reflection of the trees on the surface of the lake is truly breathtaking. To reduce traffic and protect the environment, advance reservations and a "cooperation fee" of 4,000 yen per car (including one driver) plus 2,000 yen per passenger are required to visit Tsutanuma when the autumn leaves are in season (October 20 - October 31, 2022, from 5 AM to 7:30 AM). A Video Article About Autumn Leaves at Tsutanuma in Hakkoda, Aomori Video article 3:13 Autumn Leaves in Hakkoda, Aomori - The Reflection of This Beautiful Red Foliage Is Poetic YouTube COOLJAPANVIDEOS Photographer: 山川 さおり Location: A white rainbow at Hachimantai (Hachimantai, Iwate Prefecture)) A White Rainbow A rainbow is a phenomenon that appears when sunlight is reflected and refracted by moisture in the air. The conditions for the appearance of a white rainbow are clear skies and fog, but they are rarely caught on camera. If you come across one of these rare white rainbows, be sure to take a photo. A Video Article About Towada Hachimantai National Park in Japan's Tohoku Region Video article 2:46 Superb Seasonal Views and Hot Springs! With Red Autumn Leaves in the Fall and Pure White Snow in the Winter, the Many Different Faces of Akita Prefecture's Towada Hachimantai National Park Make It One of Japan's Most Scenic Places to Visit! YouTube Features of COOL JAPAN VIDEOS Photo Contests COOL JAPAN VIDEOS is a social, video curation site that showcases the charms of Japan to people around the world who are interested in Japan. Click here for more information about COOLJAPANVIDEOS Anyone can enter COOL JAPAN VIDEOS' photo contests! Below are some of the features of our contests. ・On top of single-lens reflex cameras and digital cameras, photos taken with smartphones and other devices can also be submitted. ・Each person can submit as many photos as they like during the contest period. ・Editing of images, such as cropping and color changes, is also allowed! Here you can find all of the past photo contest winners in one place. You can also see the prizes for each contest, as well as the locations where the photos were taken and the judges' critiques. Click here to see past photo contest winners Text only Photo Contest Results - COOL JAPAN VIDEOS Winning Photos - Discover the Charms of Japan! Current Photo Contest The following is information about the current photo contest. [Ongoing From March2024] The 22th COOL JAPAN VIDEOS Photo Contest Theme: Spring in Japan Submission period: March 1, 2024 12:00 AM – April 30, 2024 11:59 PM (JST) Prizes: ■Grand Prize: 30,000 yen Amazon gift card (1 Winner) ■Honorable Mentions: 10,000 yen Amazon gift card (5 Winners) Spring in Japan Photo Contest Landscape Photography Summary Did you enjoy these landscape photos from past photo contest entries? Some of these landscapes can only be seen in specific conditions. Japan is full of rich nature, historical locations, and seasonal events! Share your photos with the world and help showcase the beauty of Japan through COOL JAPAN VIDEOS! Related Articles Text only Children of COOL JAPAN VIDEOS Photo Contests: 10 Heartwarming Photos That Will Put a Smile on Your Face! Text only Autumn in COOL JAPAN VIDEOS Photo Contests: 10 Beautiful Photos of Autumn in Japan Text only Mt. Fuji in COOL JAPAN VIDEOS Photo Contests: 10 Photos Showcasing the Different Views of Mt. Fuji Text only Hokkaido in COOL JAPAN VIDEOS Photo Contests: From Popular Sightseeing Spots to Exotic Animals, Discover the Beauty of Japan's Northernmost Prefecture! Text only Tohoku in COOL JAPAN VIDEOS Photo Contests: Hot Springs, Festivals, Snowscapes, and More – 10 Beautiful Photos of Japan's Tohoku Region! Text only Kyoto in COOL JAPAN VIDEOS Photo Contests: 10 Beautiful Photos of Kyoto, the Ancient Capital of Japan, and Its Most Popular Tourist Attractions! Text only Tokyo in COOL JAPAN VIDEOS Photo Contests: 10 Photos Featuring the Charms of Tokyo, the Capital of Japan + Popular Tourist Attractions! Text only Winter in COOL JAPAN VIDEOS Photo Contests: 10 Photos Capturing the Beauty of Winter in Japan. Snowy Landscapes, Glittering Illuminations + More! Text only Kansai in COOL JAPAN VIDEOS Photo Contests: 10 Spectacular Views of Japan's Kansai Region. From Night Views to Traditional Events, Discover the Best Photo Spots in Kansai! Text only Cherry Blossoms in COOL JAPAN VIDEOS Photo Contests: 10 Amazing Views of Cherry Blossoms, from Castles and Temples to Rows of Cherry Blossom! .separation_line { border-width: 0 0 8px; border-style: solid; border-image: url('data:image/svg+xml,') 0 0 100% repeat; width: 216px; margin:auto; margin-bottom: 50px; } -
Video article 9:30
10 Camping Manners to Be Careful of When Camping in Japan! Time, Sound, Shared Spaces, Etc. Avoid Trouble When Camping!
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Are Camping Manners Universal? Photo:A family enjoying camping Japan is often praised in foreign media and news for its manners. It shows Japanese people's unique attentiveness to others. Today, camping is becoming popular all across Japan due to the novel coronavirus. But are camping manners in Japan and camping manners in other parts of the world the same? Let's take a look at some camping manners to be careful of when camping in Japan. Video Introduction: Basic Camping Manners for Beginners Photo:A campground's cooking area This video, titled "10 Camping Manners Camping Beginners Should Know" (キャンプ初心者の方が知っておきたいキャンプマナー10選), was uploaded by "Taro Camp" (たろーキャンプ). It features camping gear and shows what camping is like in Japan. In Japan, many people are getting into nature and outdoor activities! Camping gear and items for beginner-level campers are now available as well, making it easier to start enjoy camping. However, although camping is done in nature, campgrounds are still public places and there are rules and manners to follow. Below, we'll introduce an easy-to-understand explanation of rules regarding time and use of public spaces when camping in Japan. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced camper, be sure to check out this article to avoid any misunderstandings and learn proper etiquette for camping in Japan. Rules and Manners Regarding Time Photo:A campground ・Be Quiet Late at Night It's good manners to be quiet after 10:00 p.m. Many campgrounds are often quiet, and even normal conversation can echo into other campsites. Thus, it's important to be careful about the volume of your voice and music, especially at night. Furthermore, some campgrounds have their own set times for lights-out hours, etc. Be sure to follow the etiquette of the campground you're using. ・Lights-Out Means Lights-Out As we just mentioned, lights-out hours are often set by the campground. In campgrounds where there are no streetlights or residential lights, lanterns and other lights can be intrusive. If you still want to stay awake when the lights go out, consider using a smaller light inside your tent. ・Check-in and Check-Out Hours Of particular importance are check-out times. Check-out times vary from campground to campground, but most campgrounds in Japan set their check-out time to be 10:00 a.m. It's important to respect check-out times for the sake of other campers using the campground. Use of Common Space and Garbage Photo:Campground manners ・Keeping Shared Spaces Clean Cooking areas, toilets, and shower rooms are shared spaces. It's a fact that some people pour leftover food, such as vegetable scraps and leftovers, into cooking areas. However, if the sinks become clogged, it causes problems not only for other campers but also for the campground. Furthermore, when using shower rooms and other facilities, keep in mind that other campers want to use them as well. Shared spaces are used by other campers, and it's imperative that they be used properly as to keep them clean. [Video] 2:37 - Manners in Shared Spaces ・Proper Clean-Up of Garbage Beginner-level campers should be especially cautious of this. Leave your campsite cleaner than it was when you got there. Clean up when you've finished using a site. It's very important for each and every one of us to be aware of this so that we can enjoy the refreshing air of the outdoors and camp in a pleasant environment. Be sure to take care of any charcoal and garbage you've used. Furthermore, be careful to properly separate garbage. Things like plastic bottles and food scraps should not be disposed of together. Please note that some campgrounds require campers to take their garbage home with them. Greetings and Respect for Other Campers Photo:Lake Tanuki Camp Ground ・Be Considerate of Other Campers A good campsite means being considerate of other campers at the campground. It is more enjoyable to camp in a pleasant atmosphere of mutual respect rather than hostility. Of course, don't forget to greet the campers next to you! Especially if there are small children, pets, or animals, it is a good idea to greet any fellow campers. ・Set Up Your Camp at a Reasonable Distance From Other Campers If other people have already set up their tents, keep a certain distance from them. As a rule of thumb, set up your tent at least 3 meters away from other campers. Of course, it is possible to be closer than this, depending on how crowded the site is, but you should keep this 3-meter rule in mind when camping in Japan. ・Be Mindful of Other People's Scenery If your campsite is a scenic campground, make sure that you're not obstructing other people's views. Remember that other campers go camping to enjoy the scenery too. ・Keep Music at a Volume That Does Not Disturb Others When camping, it's normal to want to listen to music, but try to play it at a volume that does not disturb other campers. There are various types of campers, some who want to enjoy the sounds of nature or listen to their music while enjoying nature. It's proper camp etiquette to enjoy music at a volume that does not disturb those around you. Nature Goes Hand in Hand With Camping ・Preserve the Natural Environment Avoid breaking tree branches, digging up plants, etc. Enjoying nature is what makes camping camping. If we destroy it then the next people to camp in the area won't be able to enjoy it. Also, if you want to use tree branches as kindling, be sure to check with the campground before doing so. Also, we recommend that you check with the campground beforehand if you plan to make an open fire directly on the ground, as many campgrounds prohibit this. Precautions to Avoid Trouble When Camping in Japan! Photo:A woman enjoying solo camping It's important to follow the rules carefully to avoid getting into trouble at the campground. Things such as leaving trash behind or playing loud music can cause a lot of trouble not only for other campers, but for the campground as well. Also, if you're planning on bringing a pet, keep it on a leash! Not everyone is comfortable with animals. Violations of manners and rules can lead to quarrels and other problems that, if serious enough, can end up with the police getting involved. If this happens, your camping experience and the camping experience of others will be ruined. To avoid trouble, be sure to respect camp etiquette! Summary of Camping Manners in Japan A campsite is a place to enjoy nature in a space shared with others. Some people want to go to bed early to feel the refreshing morning air of the great outdoors, and others just want to enjoy a fun time with everyone. Everyone has their own way of enjoying themselves, which is exactly why it's important to be mindful of others. Even experienced campers have been warned by other campers that they are too noisy. Because it's a quieter environment than the city, you may need to be more careful than usual. Please be sure to follow the rules set by the campground as well as the camping manners we listed above so that all campers can have a pleasant time when camping. The video shows examples of poorly used cooking areas and a fire pit that wasn't properly cleaned after being used. Be sure to check it out whether you're a beginner or an experienced camper! -
Video article 1:50
[HANAZONO ZIPFLIGHT] Experience One of the Largest Ziplines in the World in Niseko.
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HANAZONO ZIPFLIGHT, Niseko, Hokkaido: Video Introduction Photo:Mt. Yotei from the summit of Niseko Annupuri, Niseko, Hokkaido This video, titled "Hanazono Zip World Experience - Climax! Japan's longest Mega-zipline, Zip3 Black Diamond Superfly Ver." (Hanazono Zip Worldを体験 ~クライマックス! 日本最長のメガジップライン、Zip3 Black Diamond Superfly編 ~), was uploaded by "Niseko Hanazono Resort" (Hanazono Niseko Resort ニセコ HANAZONOリゾート). At HANAZONO ZIPFLIGHT at the Niseko Hanazono Resort in Hokkaido, visitors can experience one of the longest ziplines in the world. Ziplining is an outdoor activity in which a belt or harness is attached to a cable that is suspended in the mountains, forests, or other natural areas, and a pulley is used to glide down the rope/cable. This video shows a thrilling zipline in Niseko, the 1,700-meter-long Black Diamond Superfly that runs from the heights of the mountain to the finish line on the ground with a top speed of 110 km/h. The zipline is one of the many exciting things to do in Niseko. While soaring through the skies, visitors can enjoy the spectacular views of Mt. Yotei. Summer & Winter at Niseko Hanazono Resort Photo:Snowshoes Located in the western part of central Hokkaido, approximately two hours by car from Sapporo and New Chitose Airport, Niseko is a resort area surrounded by Mt. Yotei, Niseko Annupuri, and other mountains. Known as a world-famous ski resort, it attracts many tourists and sports enthusiasts during ski season. Niseko Hanazono Resort boasts a wide range of winter activities that allow guests to enjoy the powdery snow of Niseko. ● Snow rafting tours ● Snowshoeing tours ● Horseback riding tours in the snow ● Tubing Park ● Indoor Kids Adventure Area - Galaxy of Kidz But winter season is not the only time to enjoy activities in Niseko. There are a variety of things to do at Niseko Hanazono Resort during the summer months. One of the most popular activities is HANAZONO ZIPFLIGHT, the popular Niseko Zipline. The following is an introduction to the features and attractions of the famous Niseko Zipline, HANAZONO ZIPFLIGHT. HANAZONO ZIPFLIGHT – Experience 3 Different Ziplines at the Largest Zipline in Japan Source :YouTube screenshot HANAZONO ZIPFLIGHT, widely known as the Niseko Zipline, is most notable for its length: HANAZONO ZIPFLIGHT is the longest zipline in Japan at 2,591 meters long. Not only is it the longest zipline in Japan, but it's also the longest zipline in Asia and one of the largest ziplines in the world. HANAZONO ZIPFLIGHT, widely known as the Niseko Zipline, has three ziplines: MACH1, MACH2, and MACH3, all of which have different a different level of intensity. It's recommended that you start with MACH1, which is less intense and has a gentle gradient, and then aim for MACH3, which is the most intense of the three. MACH1, the least intense, reaches speeds of 50 km/h, while MACH2 reaches speeds of about 70 km/h. MACH3, known as the "Black Diamond Superfly," reaches speeds of up to 110 km/h over a 1,700-meter-long course. Flying through the mountains and trees of Niseko, suspended 50 meters in the air, is a truly exciting experience. One of the things that makes the zipline so fun is that two ziplines are strung side by side, allowing visitors to experience it together with their family or friends. HANAZONO ZIPFLIGHT – Prices, Discounts, and Reservations Source :YouTube screenshot HANAZONO ZIPFLIGHT, also known as the Niseko Zipline, offers the following prices, reservation methods, and various discounts (current as of June 2023). Online reservations are given priority, and a 10% discount is also applied, so it's recommended that you book online in advance to apply for the zip line. Admission Fee: From June 10 - Adults: 15,000 yen, Children: 12,000 yen (Adults: Junior high school students and older / weighing 105 kg or less, Children: Elementary school students / weighing 30-105 kg) April 29 - May 28 - Adults and Children: 9,800 yen Reservations: Online reservations have priority Discounts: ● Web Discount - Online reservations receive 10% off the regular price ● Repeater Discount - 20% off on any of your following visits during summer 2023. ● HOKKAIDO LOVE! Discount: 2000 yen off on weekdays and 1000 yen off on holidays with Hokkaido Support Coupon (ほっかいどう応援クーポン). Niseko Ziplines – What to Wear Photo:A woman wearing a rain coat The Niseko Zipline can be enjoyed in comfortable, everyday clothing, but skirts are not permitted. We recommend wearing clothes that are easy to move in and that you do not mind getting dirty. Since you will be walking on unpaved terrain, heels and sandals are not permitted, and sneakers or other comfortable walking shoes are recommended. Helmets are required on the Niseko Zipline, so if you have long hair, tie it up with a hair band in advance. If you're thinking about riding the Niseko Zipline on a rainy day, we recommend wearing a waterproof windbreaker or rain jacket. This will protect you from rainwater and provide a comfortable aerial experience. That being said, in the event of inclement weather, some activities may not take place or the number of active ziplines may change. Please check the weather forecast in advance. A Luxury Hotel in Hanazono Photo:Sunrise from Mt. Yotei, Hokkaido After a day of physical activities in the comfortable nature of Hokkaido and enjoying the Niseko Zipline, a hotel with a spa is the perfect place to relax and unwind. Park Hyatt Niseko Hanazono, located within Niseko Hanazono Resort, offers a superb view of Mt. Yotei, as well as exquisite cuisine, and a spacious, luxurious environment to relax after a long day of travel. With outstanding reviews Park Hyatt Niseko Hanazono is a recommended hotel for those looking for a luxurious resort for adults. Other Things to Do in Niseko Photo:Oyunuma Pond, Niseko, Hokkaido Niseko is a popular destination in Hokkaido full of exciting outdoor activities to enjoy. Onsen Niseko is quite popular for its onsen (hot springs), and there are a number of locations in the Niseko area where you can enjoy relaxing in onsen all year round. Cycling Thanks to the beautiful scenery of Hokkaido, cycling is another popular activity in Niseko. The area boasts an endless number of breathtaking views with which to cycle to, and there are even cycling events, such as the Niseko Classic, held in the area each year. Camping Another exciting outdoor activity to enjoy in Niseko is camping. Again, making great use of the natural beauty of Hokkaido, there are a countless campgrounds available to choose from. You can choose a campground where you bring your own tent, or even one where the accommodations are provided. There are also free campsites as well, if you're looking to go camping on a budget. How to Get to Niseko Photo:Niseko Station, Hokkaido Access to Niseko will depend on where in Japan you're coming from. With that said, assuming you're already in Hokkaido, here are 3 ways to get to Niseko. Sapporo to Niseko From Sapporo Station, you can either take a bus to Otaru and then transfer to a bus which will take you to Niseko, or take a bus straight to Niseko (~3 hours). Hakodate to Niseko From Hakodate you can take a limited express train to Oshamambe Station, and from there transfer to a local line to Niseko Station (~4 hours). New Chitose Airport to Niseko From New Chitose Airport you can take the train to Sapporo Station, and from there to Otaru Station. From Otaru Station you can then take a bus to Niseko Station (~3.5 hours). Alternatively, you could take a bus from Sapporo Station to Niseko Station. Keep in mind that, if you're coming by car, you can significantly cut your travel time. Additionally, because the Niseko area is so vast, there are two main stations in the area: Niseko Station and Kutchan Station. Depending on where in Niseko you'll be sightseeing, the station you travel to can vary as well. Be sure to keep this in mind, as you can end up saving a lot of time by going to the station closest to your destination. Summary of HANAZONO ZIP WORLD, Home to the Largest Zipline in Japan Source :YouTube screenshot HANAZONO ZIPFLIGHT, one of the world's largest mega-ziplines, is a must-try activity when visiting Hokkaido. The thrill and excitement conveyed in the video, as well as the beautiful scenery, is sure to make for an unforgettable experience. We hope you get a chance to enjoy this aerial adventure in Niseko. 【Official Website】HANAZONO ZIPFLIGHT 【TripAdvisor】Niseko Hanazono Resort -
Video article 2:27
Iheya Island - A Tropical Travel Destination in Okinawa!
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This Introductory Video of Iheya Island, Okinawa, Shows the Incredibly Beautiful, Dreamlike Scenery of the Island This introductory video, "The Mystic 'Iheya Island'" (神秘の島「伊平屋島」) was produced by the Iheya Island Tourist Association using aerial drone footage. You'll see the incredibly beautiful scenery of the isolated Iheya Island, in Okinawa. Iheya Island is a remote island with breathtakingly clear, pristine waters and nature. It is even famous in Okinawa, one of Japan's most popular tourist resorts. In this article, you'll find recommendations for places to see and things to do around Iheya Island, Okinawa. The video shows aerial photos of the emerald green coral reefs and the natural mountains of Iheya Island in Okinawa. You'll be astonished watching the video and realizing that such beauty exists in Japan. All About Iheya Island, Okinawa Photo:Iheya Island's sandy beach and sea Iheya Island is located 117 km north of Naha on the main island of Okinawa, a part of Japan's southwestern archipelago. It is also north of the main island of Okinawa, 41.1 km from Nakijinson Kamiunten harbor, a ferry depot in the northernmost inhabited island of Okinawa. At southern end of Iheya Island, there is Izena Island. Iheya Island is a mysterious island where the original landscape of Okinawa has been preserved, and many legends and gods continue to live on. Iheya Island (Area: 20.66km2 Perimeter: 34.23km) is a long, thin island connected to Noho Island (Area: 1.06km2 Perimeter: 4.8km) by the Noho bridge and as of July, 2009, has a population of 1,405. To get to Iheya Island, you can take a bus or car from Naha Airport on the main island of Okinawa to Unten Port in Nakijin Village where the ferry dock is located. An 80-minute ride on the ferry takes you to Iheya Island. As there are only two ferry services a day, and a day trip is difficult, we recommend spending at least one night on Iheya Island. Local transportation is either rental cars, taxis, the island's community bus, or rental bicycles, as well as the ferry that takes you to Iheya Island. It's also possible to bring your own car onto the ferry as well. If the weather is good, we recommend renting a bicycle to see the island and enjoy the natural scenery. Touristic Information to Enjoy Iheya's Beautiful Emerald Green Sea Photo:Sea turtle The brilliant emerald-green sea shown in the video is so beautiful that you might feel like you're dreaming. The sea is transparent up to 50 meters and the view of a small boat casting its shadow on the seafloor is fantastic. You can see this amazing scenery from 1:12 in the video. The sea of Iheya Island is comparably beautiful to that of popular Yaeyama Island and Miyako Island. In these beautiful waters, you can enjoy coral reefs, marine life, snorkeling, diving, sea kayaking and other marine sports, as well as fishing to your heart's content. The beaches which are worth visiting on Iheya Island are ‘Kumaya beach’ for fishing, and ‘Suga-hama’ and ‘Yonesaki-kaigan’ for enjoying beautiful scenery. Because there are only two ferries a day and no large tourist facilities, there are very few tourists in Okinawa, so you can enjoy the sea to your heart's content, as it is a lesser-known beach in Okinawa. White sandy beaches with endless blue skies and seas await you. Enjoy the Sights and Sounds of Iheya Island Photo:Hiramatsu Starting at 1:31 in the video, the sights of Iheya Island, with its unspoiled nature and culture, are introduced. One of the must-see spots is “Kumaya Cave” which is said to be the southernmost place related to a legend about Amaterasu Omikami. Japan has a lot of places where the “Amano Iwato legend” allegedly took place. The natural light that floods the cave is so magical and Instagram-worthy. It's also a popular power spot not to be missed when visiting Iheya Island. At 1:46 in the video, “Nento hiramatsu” is also a popular touristic spot on Iheya Island and visitors will be overwhelmed when they see the branches of the “Ryukyu matsu” looming over them. We also recommend visiting the Iheya Lighthouse from which you can overlook the whole of Iheya Island. This can be seen in the video from 1:51. You can enjoy a spectacular view of nature with 200-meter-high mountains and blue waters. There are also plenty of other places with beautiful scenery as well. From 1:58 on the video, “Yahe Rock” is a historical place and said to be the ruins of an old castle that protected the island from the Nakijin army. The sunset seen through the rocky mountains quite the spectacle as well. If you're looking for something good to eat, be sure to try the fresh seafood dishes on Iheya Island. As it's surrounded by the sea, it has some of the freshest seafood you can get! After a day of fishing, a seaside BBQ with the fish you caught will make for an unforgettable experience. Mozuku seaweed and local sea salt from Iheya Island make for great souvenirs as well. Other Tourist Attractions at Iheya Island There are even more tourist destinations on Iheya Island that weren't shown in the video! “Kuba mountain at Tana”, “Tiger head Rock”, “Yagurabaka”, “Iheya History and Folklore Museum” and “Kami asagi” are also places we recommend visiting. If you prefer joining activities or events, "Iheya Village Trail," "Iheya Moonlight marathon," "Iheya Festival," "Iheya Scarecrow Festival," and “Iheya New Year Trim Marathon” are some things that might interest you. Of course, there are also hotels and inns on Iheya Island, so you can stay overnight for sightseeing. Wrap-Up Photo: Iheya Island from a plane The video, "The Mystic 'Iheya Island'" (神秘の島「伊平屋島」), introduces the beautiful, clear sea and the splendid natural scenery of Iheya Island, one of Japan’s remote islands. Sometimes the waves are so calm, and you can see the seafloor so clearly, that it's as if there's no water at all. Be sure to check this out in the video! In this article, we introduced you to Iheya Island's attractions, marine activities, and food, as well as how to access it. There are also agriculture and fishing experiences, as well as home-stay accommodations where you can interact with the islanders and experience Japan's original landscape and nature. Take a trip to the remote Iheya Island, forget about your troubles, and get away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. 【Tripadvisor】Iheya Island https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g1121620-d1373491-Reviews-Iheyajima_Island-Iheya_son_Shimajiri_gun_Okinawa_Prefecture.html -
Video article 3:45
Kushiro Marsh: A Second Amazon River! Enjoy an Amazing 360-Degree View Nature! Sightseeing, Nature, Delicious Food, and Relaxation in Hokkaido's Kushiro City! 110% Fun!
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Kushiro City, Hokkaido This video “KUSHIRO Hokkaido Japan in 8K HDR - 釧路 [summer ver.]" (KUSHIRO Hokkaido Japan in 8K HDR - 釧路 [summer ver.]), produced by “KUSHIRO Hokkaido Japan,” is a promotional video of Hokkaido's "Kushiro city," located in the eastern area of Hokkaido. You can see sightseeing destinations and specialties of Kushiro City in high, 8k quality footage. Kushiro city, a city facing the Pacific Ocean, is located on the eastern side of Hokkaido. Here, you can enjoy the abundant nature of Kushiro city, and the wildlife unique to the area. Access to Hokkaido Kushiro city is best done by plane, using the Kushiro Airport. There are flights from Haneda Airport (Tokyo International Airport) and Itami Airport (Osaka International Airport) to Kushiro Airport. This video captures the charm of Kushiro City, Hokkaido, in under 4 minutes. It looks like summer, with the large green expanse spreading out to the horizon. We hope you enjoy the video clip of Kushiro city, Hokkaido, the largest wetland in Japan. The Most Famous Sightseeing Spot in Kushiro- Kushiro Marsh Photo:Kushiro Marsh, red crowned cranes “Kushiro Marsh” is the largest marsh in Japan, spanning 4 cities and towns in Hokkaido, including Kushiro city. This marsh is designated as natural wildlife reserve, and wildlife, such as “red crowned cranes” and “white tailed sea eagles,” that can be found no where else, live here. Also, it has been registered under the Ramsar Convention since 1980, to protect the important marsh through international cooperation. “Kushiro Marsh Observatory” is a popular spot among Kushiro city’s many sightseeing spots. From this observatory you can see a 360 degree view of Kushiro Marsh's scenery.Experience a spectacular view reminiscent of the Amazon. Also, this is one of the best spots in Hokkaido perfect for taking beautiful Instagram photos. The observatory hall displays a replica of precious flora and fauna from “Kushiro Marsh.” There are also Kushiro Marsh satellite observatories along the loop trail, which is 100% barrier-free, so be sure to check it out! Hosooka Observatory, near the Kushiro Marsh Station on Senmo Line, which runs through Kushiro Marsh, is another place we recommend. Enjoy the Great Outdoors From Kushiro Marsh's Hiking Course Photo:Kushiro Marsh, Hiking To those who want to experience the untamed lands of Kushiro Marsh directly, we recommend Onnenai wooden walkway and Tsurui track course at the "Onnenai Visitor Center." The Onnenai wooden walkway is a roughly 2 km course at Kushiro Marsh, and it takes you along a hiking course where you can breathe in the refreshing air of the Kushiro wetlands. Quite different from sightseeing in the city. The hiking course also has a 100% barrier-free route, so it's great for those using wheelchairs, or families with strollers. The Panoramic View From Kushiro Marsh's "Norokko Train" Photo:Kushiro Marsh Norokko Train Train fans don't want to miss the Kushiro Marsh Norokko Train. Norokko Train is a train that runs between Kushiro and Toro, and it is quite popular among the many trains of Hokkaido. The 36-degree view of Kushiro Marsh from the window makes you feel as if you have come to another world. If you're lucky, you might be able to see some of the wildlife in Kushiro Marsh. Enjoy Canoeing Down the Great Kushiro River Photo:Kushiro Marsh If you're a fan of the outdoors and want to move your body, we recommend Kushiro River’s canoe tour. In this river tour, you slowly sail through the calm waters of Kushiro River by canoe, and enjoy the nature of Kushiro. You can enjoy another view of “Kushiro Marsh” from the river, which is a vastly different take from the view at the observatory. The canoe tour has many plans: the 90 minute tour, 1 day tour, and the secret location tour. Choose the one that best fits your schedule, or even schedule around which plan you want to enjoy. Sightseeing in Kushiro City, Hokkaido Kushiro Marsh and Kushiro River are not the only sightseeing spots near Hokkaido's Kushiro City. At the foot of Oakandake, there is Lake Akan (Akanko) where spherical moss live, as well as the Akanko Hotspring village. Challenging hiking the Meakandake near the Oakandake is also nice. The mysterious lake “Onneto” is one of the 3 major secret lakes in Hokkaido, and changes its color by time and the angle you view it from. This is introduced from 1:03 in the video. There are many sightseeing spots where you can enjoy beautiful, scenic views, for example, Shakubetsu Hill which is popular among train enthusiasts as the best location for the Nemuro Line as it runs through fields. There 's also the popular fishing spot Onbetsu Shore, the 24 hour operated international Kushiro Harbor, the European style Musamai Bridge that spans the Kushiro River, and the Musamai Rotary, as well as the Takimi Bridge which is a great place to view the beautiful autumn leaves, and the Ainu Kotan village where only about 120 people live. Dining in Kushiro, Hokkaido Photo:Seafood rice bowl This video introduces not only Kushiro's great nature and places of interest, but also many of the city's popular local delicacies. At Kushiro Washo Market, there are many kinds of seafood on display, and Katte Don (a type of seafood bowl in which you pick your own choice of seafood) is a very popular dish. We highly recommend this seafood market, for both delicious seafood and sightseeing, when visiting Kushiro. The fishing industry is quite popular in Kushiro City, with the largest amount of saury landings in Japan. This is seen at 2:02 in the video. There are many other attractive dishes to try in Kushiro, for example, Kushiro soba and Kushiro ramen, soba sushi, Ganpeki Robata located in Kushiro Fisherman’s Warf, MOO, and Kushiro Robata’s robatayaki. By the way, did you know that the soul food of Hokkaido, zangi, originated in Kushiro? You can see these popular Kushiro delicacies from 1:15 in the video. Summary of Kushiro, Hokkaido Please watch this video to learn more about the wonders of Kushiro, which this article can't even begin to describe. There's a lot more to see in the video, and we highly recommend you watch it to see the Ainu’s traditional historical event "Iomante’s Fire Festival," from 3:27. If this video has you interested in Kushiro city, consider booking a trip there the next time you come to Japan! Hokkaido is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Japan, and there is a good selection of buses, car rental services, and hotels, so you won't have any trouble getting around. You'll be amazed at the charm, spectacular scenery, beauty, culture and history of Kushiro city, Hokkaido. 【Official Website】Hokkaido Kushiro City’s City Hall Website (English site) https://www.city.kushiro.lg.jp/machi/foreign%20languages/page2001.html 【Official Website】Kushiro/Akanko Travel Guide Official Website, SUPER FANTASTIC Kushiro Lake Akan (English site) https://en.kushiro-lakeakan.com/ -
Video article 9:35
The Great Cherry Blossom Buddha at Tsubosakadera! Beautiful Drone Footage of the Cherry Blossoms the Famous Temple in Nara!
Travel Art & Architecture Nature- 121 plays
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Tsubosakadera Temple's 'Great Cherry Blossom Buddha': Video Introduction This video, titled "[Cherry Blossoms via Drone in 4K] The Great Cherry Blossom Buddha at Tsubosakadera Temple, Nara (Long Ver. )|Cherry Blossom Drone Project" ([桜ドローン撮影4K] 奈良県壺阪寺の大仏桜 Tsubosaka-dera Temple, Nara (Long Ver. )|桜ドローンプロジェクト). was uploaded by "DRONE ENTERTAINMENT - Sakura Drone Project." This video shows beautiful images of the cherry blossoms in full bloom and the Great Buddha at Tsubosakadera Temple taken from the sky during Japan's cherry blossom season. In the video you can see the cherry blossoms from the perspective of the Great Buddha, which can only be achieved with drone photography. The illuminated scenery of the temple grounds at night is different from that of the daytime, and it is a fantastic view. Take your time to watch the beautiful scenery in the video. Nara, Home to Some of the Most Famous Temples in Japan Nara, Japan is home to approximately 1,800 temples, some of which, such as Todaiji Temple, the largest temple in Nara, are the most famous in Japan. It's even home to the Nanto Shichi Daiji (Seven Great Temples of Nara), or the Seven Great Temples of the Southern Capital. The Seven Great Temples of Nara are: Daianji Temple, Gangoji Temple, Horyuji Temple, Kofukuji Temple, Saidaiji Temple, Todaiji Temple, and Yakushiji Temple. The vast number of temples and other tourist attractions, coupled with the long history of Nara, make it a destination in Japan that's definitely worth visiting. What is Tsubosakadera Temple? Photo:The Buddha at Tsubosakadera Temple, Nara Prefecture Tsubosakadera Temple, famous for the Great Cherry Blossom Buddha, is a Shingon sect temple located in Takatori, Nara, in Japan's Kansai Region. Although it's known by the names "Great Cherry Blossom Buddha" and "Tsubosakadera Temple," its official name is Minami Hokkeji Temple. The temple was founded in 703 by Benki Shonin, a Buddhist priest. The temple's name is said to have originated when Benki Shonin, a monk of Gankoji Temple who was undergoing ascetic training, enshrined the Goddess of Kannon in a crystal vase in a hermitage on a hill. The main deity of the temple is the eleven-faced, thousand-armed Kannon (Avalokitesvara), and since it is believed to be protect against eye diseases, visitors from all over Japan come to Tsubosakadera Temple to pray for protection. The temple is also famous for its hina dolls, which are arranged in the shape of a mandala, a sacred symbol in Buddhism. Approximately 3,000 dolls are displayed around the eleven-faced thousand-armed Kannon. In the inner sanctuary of Tsubosakadera Temple, there is also a stone structure called Go-Hyakku Rakan (Five Hundred Arhats) featuring many Buddhist statues. Some things that make the temple unique are its solar power generation system, which is not something you'd find at other temples in Japan, as well as several large Budda statues on the temple grounds that were carved in, and imported from, India. When do the Cherry Blossoms Bloom at Tsubosakadera Temple? Photo:The Great Cherry Blossom Buddha at Tsubosakadera Temple, Nara Prefecture Tsubosakadera Temple is one of the most famous cherry blossom viewing spots in Japan, and is known for its giant Buddha statue surrounded by cherry blossoms. Among the large stone Buddha statues, the most eye-catching is the Tsubosaka Daibutsu (Great Buddha of Tsubosakadera), located in the center of the temple. The statue stands a staggering 10 meters (~33 feet) tall atop a 5-meter-tall platform. During the cherry blossom season, many people come to visit the temple and take Instagram photos with the cherry blossoms and the Buddha. [Video] 1:36 - The Great Buddha Surrounded by Cherry Blossoms Cherry blossoms at Tsubosaka-ji usually bloom from late March to early April; in 2024, the expected bloom date in Nara Prefecture is around March 25 and the expected full bloom date is April 1, a little earlier than usual. According to the SNS of Tsubosaka-ji Temple, in 2023, the trees were almost in full bloom on March 25. Please check back around that time before heading out. Light-up viewing is scheduled from March 23 to April 3, 2024 (tentative), so you can enjoy the pagodas and the Great Buddha on the temple grounds, as well as the illuminated cherry blossoms. [Video] 3:35 - Tsubosakadera Temple Illuminated at Night Tourist Attractions Near Tsubosakadera Temple Photo:Nara Park, Nara Prefecture There are various tourist attractions and sightseeing spots near Tsubosakadera Temple. You can also visit places where you can learn about Japanese history, such as the ruins of Takatori Castle, which is designated as a National Historic site, and the Kitora Tomb (Kitora Burial Mound). For lunch, we recommend Hana Yamato (花大和), a tea house serving Yakuzen cuisine (medicinal, herbal cuisine based on traditional Chinese medicine), or Oku Asuka Sarara (奥明日香さらら), where you can enjoy local cuisine from Nara. Between sightseeing, you can also take a break at Nokonoko Café (のこのこカフェ). If you're looking to visit major tourist attractions in Nara Prefecture, such as Mt. Yoshino and Nara Park, from Tsubosakadera Temple, we recommend staying overnight and taking your time to enjoy Nara. Summary of the Great Cherry Blossom Buddha at Tsubosakadera Temple Did you enjoy the beautiful views of cherry blossoms at and the Great Buddha at Tsubosakadera Temple in spring? Known for its Great Cherry Blossom Buddha, Tsubosakadera Temple in Nara Prefecture attracts many tourists from all over Japan for hanami (cherry blossom viewing), as well as those who visit the temple on their pilgrimage to the 33 sacred sites in the western part of Japan. You can also pick up original souvenirs at the temple that you won't find anywhere else, such as the shuin stamp book embroidered with the Great Buddha and cherry blossoms. Tsubosakadera Temple is easily accessible from Nara City, and outside of special monthly events, requires no reservations, making it a great place to visit during any trip to Nara. If you're looking for things to do in Nara, be sure to check it out! ◆Tsubosakadera Temple◆ 【Address】3 Tsubosaka, Takatori-cho, Takaichi-gun, Nara 635-0102, Japan 【Access】 By Car: Drive southeast from the Katsuragi IC on Minami Hanna Road (approx. 30 min. by car) By train: From Kintetsu Osaka Abenobashi, get off at Tsubosaka-yama bound for Yoshino (about 40 minutes via express train), then take a bus or cab. 【Telephone】0744-52-2016 【Hours】8:30 a.m. - 3:00 pm 【Admission Fee】Adults (18 years and older) 600 yen, children 100 yen, young children (5 years and younger) free of charge (as of 2/2/2023). 300 yen for the disabled upon presentation of a disability certificate. 【Parking】Available (Please check the official website for details.) 【TripAdvisor】Tsubosakadera Temple -
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Kansai in COOL JAPAN VIDEOS Photo Contests: 10 Spectacular Views of Japan's Kansai Region. From Night Views to Traditional Events, Discover the Best Photo Spots in Kansai!
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COOL JAPAN VIDEOS is always holding photo contests. This time, we have selected works depicting Japan's Kansai region from among the many photos submitted to past COOL JAPAN VIDEOS Photo Contests, and will introduce some photography tips on timing, composition, etc. to help you take great photos with your smartphone! Be sure to try them out the next time you're sightseeing in Japan's Kansai region. COOL JAPAN VIDEOS is a social, video curation site that introduces the charms of Japan to people around the world who are interested in Japan. Our photo contests allow you to participate and even win with photos taken via your smartphone! Stick around to learn more! ■Table of Contents - Kansai in Past Photo Contests Shirahige Shrine at Sunset A Night View of Dotonbori in Minami, Osaka Mt. Wakakusa Yamayaki and Yakushiji Temple The Great Buddha Hall of Todaiji Temple Gozan Okuribi in Kyoto Sea Sparkles in Ine, Kyoto Himeji Castle and Cherry Blossoms The Takeda Castle Ruins Daimonzaka on the Kumano Kodo Hashigui-iwa Rocks - Features of COOL JAPAN VIDEOS Photo Contests - Current Photo Contest - Summary of Kansai in COOL JAPAN VIDEOS Photo Contests Kansai in Past Photo Contests Among the many works that convey the charms of Japan, we have carefully selected photos of sightseeing spots in Japan's Kansai region. We will also introduce some highlights of each area, photography tips, and related video articles to check out. COOLJAPANVIDEOS Photographer: たっかー Location: Shirahige Shrine (Takashima, Shiga) Highlights and Photography Tips for Shirahige Shrine, Lake Biwa Shirahige Shrine is a popular power spot in Japan and is the oldest shrine in Omi. There are many photogenic sights, including the main shrine, the shrine office, and other historical buildings, as well as Iwato Shrine located at the far end of the shrine grounds. But the best place for photos is the Great Torii Gate standing in Lake Biwa! You can capture various scenes of the torii as it stands against the rising sun and on the surface of the lake at sunset from the observatory on the shrine grounds. A Video Article About Shirahige Shrine, a Popular Tourist Attraction Video article 5:22 Shirahige Shrine - A Mysterious and Popular Location Where You Can Enjoy a Spectacular View of Lake Biwa! The Vermilion-Colored Torii Gate Is a Must-See! YouTube COOLJAPANVIDEOS Photographer: たっかー Location: Dotonbori (Osaka City, Osaka Prefecture) Highlights and Photography Tips for Dotonbori a downtown area in Osaka's Minami district Dotonbori is a well-known shopping district in Osaka's Minami district. Lined with theatres and restaurants, it has been crowded with people since Edo period Japan to the present day. Ebisu Bridge, which spans the Dotonbori River, is a great place to take photos. The huge billboard of "Glico" is proof that Osaka is a popular tourist attraction. The Kuidaore Taro doll and the giant three-dimensional billboards are photo spots that symbolize downtown Osaka. A Video Article About the Shinsekai and Tsutenkaku Areas of Osaka Video article 4:26 Be Enchanted by the Glittering Neon Lights of Osaka and the Night View of Tsutenkaku Lighting up the City of Osaka! Introducing Recommended Spots Around Tsutenkaku Tower, the Symbol of Osaka! YouTube COOLJAPANVIDEOS Photographer: Shunkai_k Location: Lake Oike (Nara City, Nara Prefecture) Highlights and Photography Tips for Wakakusa Yamayaki Wakakusa Yamayaki, an event held every year on the fourth Saturday in January in Japan, is a traditional event in Nara. The flames spread across 81 acres of grassland on Mt. Wakakusa in Nara Park. The foot of Mt. Wakakusa, where visitors can see Mt. Wakakusa up close as it burns, as well as Ukigumo Enchi and Kasugano Enchi, which offer panoramic views of Mt. Wakakusa, are all popular sightseeing spots. From Oike in Nishinokyo, visitors can take photos of Yakushiji Temple and the Mt. Wakakusa fireworks. A Video Article About Yakushiji Temple, a Power Spot in Nara Prefecture Video article 6:57 Yakushiji Temple in Nara Prefecture - Registered as a World Heritage Site Under "Historic Monuments of Ancient Nara," the Temple Is Also Known as a Power Spot To Pray for Good Health! YouTube COOLJAPANVIDEOS Photographer: Smartone Templeslope Location: The Great Buddha Hall of Todaiji Temple from Mt. Wakakusa (Nara City, Nara Prefecture) Highlights and Photography Tips for Nara Park, a Popular Tourist Attraction Nara Park is dotted with historical buildings such as Todaiji Temple, Shosoin Temple, Kofukuji Temple, and Kasuga Taisha Shrine in a rich natural setting. It is also a popular tourist attraction for cherry blossoms and autumn leaves. If you want to take pictures of autumn leaves and deer, we recommend Tobihino and Ukigumo Enchi in Nara Park. A Video Article About Tourist Attractions in Nara Prefecture Video article 3:45 Get a Taste of Japanese History in Nara Prefecture! Nara Prefecture Is Full of Places That You Don't Want to Miss When Traveling to the Kansai Region! YouTube COOLJAPANVIDEOS Photographer: tabokin Location: Hidari Daimonji seen from Mt. Yoshida (Sakyo, Kyoto) Photography Tips for Gozan no Okuribi, a Summer Event in Kyoto Gozan no Okuribi is a summer tradition in Kyoto. It's a Bon Festival event held every year on August 16 where fires are lit on five mountains surrounding the city of Kyoto. The characters "Daimonji" (大文字), "Myo/Ho" (妙・法), "Funagata" (船形), "Hidari Daimonji" (左大文字), and "Toriigata" (鳥居形) are lit in sequence from 8:00 p.m. onward. Mt. Yoshida, located on Mt. Okita and facing Daimonji, is lit by "Hidari Daimonji." 10 minutes up the mountain, there is a photo spot where you can get a full view of the Daimonji, which is highly recommended. A Video Article About Gozan no Okuribi, a Traditional Event in Kyoto Video article 1:01 Gozan no Okuribi – A Traditional Event to Send off the Spirits of the Deceased During the Obon Festival of Kyoto, Japan YouTube COOLJAPANVIDEOS Photographer: しんご @shingo_camera Location: Ine (Yosa, Kyoto) The Sea Sparkles of Ine, Kyoto Every year from April to the end of May, there are days when Ine Bay in Kyoto, Japan glows a brilliant blue. The cause of this is noctiluca scintillans, aka sea sparkles. Unlike sea fireflies, sea sparkles emit blue light in response to physical stimuli. Therefore, whenever they are stimulated by waves, large numbers of sea sparkles begin to glow. During the day, when there's a red tide in the bay and a strong southward wind blows, there's a high probability of seeing sea sparkles. A Video Article About the Funaya of Ine, Kyoto Video article 3:45 The First Floor of the House Is a Dock?! The Historic Port Town of Funaya, Ine in Kyoto Is a Fishing Village Lined With Mysterious Houses! You won't Find Scenery Like This Anywhere Else! YouTube COOLJAPANVIDEOS Photographer: st situation Location: Himeji Castle (Himeji, Hyogo) Highlights and Photography Tips for Cherry Blossoms at Himeji Castle Himeji Castle, selected as one of the Top 100 Cherry Blossom Viewing Spots in Japan, is home to approximately 1,600 cherry trees, including Someiyoshino cherry trees and weeping cherry trees, which can be seen in full bloom in the spring. Sannomaru Square (三の丸広場, San no Maru Hiroba), Senhime Botan Garden (千姫ぼたん園, Sen Hime Botan-en), and Nishi no Maru Garden (西の丸庭園, Nishi no Maru Teien) are popular spots for taking photos of Himeji Castle and the cherry blossoms. The atmospheric composition of Himeji Castle, cherry blossoms, and a Japanese sightseeing boat in the inner moat of Himeji Castle with the red Shiromi Bridge in the background creates an incredibly photogenic shot. A Video Article About Cherry Blossoms at Himeji Castle in Hyogo Prefecture Video article 3:29 Enjoy the Cherry Blossoms of Hyogo Prefecture at Himeji Castle, Japan's First World Cultural Heritage Site! The Contrast Between the White Himeji Castle and the Pink Cherry Blossoms Will Leave You Speechless! YouTube COOLJAPANVIDEOS Photographer: Nguyen Vu Location: The Takeda Castle Ruins from the Ritsuunkyo Observation Deck (Asago, Hyogo) Highlights and Photography Tips for the Takeda Castle Ruins The Takeda Castle Ruins, located on the summit of Mt. Kojo in Asago, Hyogo, are the site of a mountain castle whose stone walls are still almost completely intact, some 400 years after the castle was abandoned. On a clear autumn morning, the area around the castle is sometimes shrouded in thick fog, leaving the Takeda Castle Ruins at the top of the mountain. A good spot to photograph the Takeda Castle Ruins floating in a sea of clouds is the Ritsuunkyo Observation Deck (立雲峡, Ritsuunkyo), located halfway up Mt. Asago opposite the castle ruins. A Video Article About the Take Castle Ruins, the "Castle in the Sky" Video article 2:29 Behold the Mesmerizing Scenery of Takeda Castle, Hidden in a Sea of Clouds in Asago, Hyogo! Called the "Machu Picchu of Japan" and "Castle in the Sky," Takeda Castle Attracts Thousands of Tourists From All Over the World! YouTube COOLJAPANVIDEOS Photographer: 女子高校生 Location: The Kumano Kodo (Higashimuro, Wakayama) Highlights and Photography Tips for Daimonzaka on the Kumano Kodo Daimonzaka, located on the Kumano Kodo pilgrimage trail, is the entrance to Kumano Nachi Taisha Shrine and Nachi Falls, both of which were visited by people in ancient times. The "Meoto Sugi" (Lover Cedar Trees), estimated to be 800 years old, the stone pavement, the grove of centuries-old cedar trees, and the moss-covered stone steps are a must-see for photographers and travelers alike. Kumano Nachi Taisha Shrine, one of the Kumano Sanzan (three great temples of the Kumano region), and Nachi Falls, one of the Top 3 Waterfalls in Japan, are also popular spots. A Video Article About the Kumano Kodo, a World Heritage Site Video article 2:35 The Beautiful Landscape of Kumano Kodo, A World Heritage Site in Wakayama Prefecture. This Historic Power Spot Is Full of Stone Steps and Sacred Waterfalls, Perfect for Your Instagram! YouTube COOLJAPANVIDEOS Photographer: いくみ Location: Hashigui-iwa Rocks (Higashimuro, Wakayama) Highlights and Photography Tips for Hashigui-iwa Rocks, a Popular Tourist Attraction The Hashigui-iwa Rocks are a group of uniquely-shaped rocks in the town of Kushimoto on the southern tip of Wakayama. It consists of more than 40 rock pillars of all shapes and sizes that form a straight line extending roughly 850 meters into the sea. The scenery has been selected as one of the Top 100 Sunrise Spots in Japan, so be sure to take photos of it at sunrise! The best spot to photograph it is from the parking lot of Roadside Station Kushimoto Hashigui-iwa (道の駅くしもと橋杭岩, Michi no Eki Kushimoto Hashigui-iwa). With silhouettes of rock pillars, the sky and the sea, it's possible to capture various appearances with creative use of exposure, composition, and white balance. A Video Article About the Shirasaki Coast in Wakayama Prefecture Video article 3:35 Shirasaki Coast in Wakayama Prefecture, Called the "Aegean Sea of Japan," Is Just Like a Painting! Introducing the Charms and Activities of Shirasaki Coast! YouTube Features of COOL JAPAN VIDEOS Photo Contests COOL JAPAN VIDEOS is a social, video curation site that showcases the charms of Japan to people around the world who are interested in Japan. Click here for more information about COOLJAPANVIDEOS Anyone can enter COOL JAPAN VIDEOS' photo contests! Below are some of the features of our contests. ・On top of single-lens reflex cameras and digital cameras, photos taken with smartphones and other devices can also be submitted. ・Each person can submit as many photos as they like during the contest period. ・Editing of images, such as cropping and color changes, is also allowed! Here you can find all of the past photo contest winners in one place. You can also see the prizes for each contest, as well as the locations where the photos were taken and the judges' critiques. Click here to see past photo contest winners Text only Photo Contest Results - COOL JAPAN VIDEOS Winning Photos - Discover the Charms of Japan! Current Photo Contest The following is information about the current photo contest. [Ongoing From March2024] The 22th COOL JAPAN VIDEOS Photo Contest Theme: Spring in Japan Submission period: March 1, 2024 12:00 AM – April 30, 2024 11:59 PM (JST) Prizes: ■Grand Prize: 30,000 yen Amazon gift card (1 Winner) ■Honorable Mentions: 10,000 yen Amazon gift card (5 Winners) Spring in Japan Photo Contest Landscape Photography Summary Did you enjoy these landscape photos from past photo contest entries? Some of these landscapes can only be seen in specific conditions. Japan is full of rich nature, historical locations, and seasonal events! Share your photos with the world and help showcase the beauty of Japan through COOL JAPAN VIDEOS! Related Articles Text only Children of COOL JAPAN VIDEOS Photo Contests: 10 Heartwarming Photos That Will Put a Smile on Your Face! Text only Autumn in COOL JAPAN VIDEOS Photo Contests: 10 Beautiful Photos of Autumn in Japan Text only Mt. Fuji in COOL JAPAN VIDEOS Photo Contests: 10 Photos Showcasing the Different Views of Mt. Fuji Text only Hokkaido in COOL JAPAN VIDEOS Photo Contests: From Popular Sightseeing Spots to Exotic Animals, Discover the Beauty of Japan's Northernmost Prefecture! Text only Tohoku in COOL JAPAN VIDEOS Photo Contests: Hot Springs, Festivals, Snowscapes, and More – 10 Beautiful Photos of Japan's Tohoku Region! Text only Kyoto in COOL JAPAN VIDEOS Photo Contests: 10 Beautiful Photos of Kyoto, the Ancient Capital of Japan, and Its Most Popular Tourist Attractions! Text only Tokyo in COOL JAPAN VIDEOS Photo Contests: 10 Photos Featuring the Charms of Tokyo, the Capital of Japan + Popular Tourist Attractions! Text only Winter in COOL JAPAN VIDEOS Photo Contests: 10 Photos Capturing the Beauty of Winter in Japan. Snowy Landscapes, Glittering Illuminations + More! Text only Kansai in COOL JAPAN VIDEOS Photo Contests: 10 Spectacular Views of Japan's Kansai Region. From Night Views to Traditional Events, Discover the Best Photo Spots in Kansai! Text only Cherry Blossoms in COOL JAPAN VIDEOS Photo Contests: 10 Amazing Views of Cherry Blossoms, from Castles and Temples to Rows of Cherry Blossom! .separation_line { border-width: 0 0 8px; border-style: solid; border-image: url('data:image/svg+xml,') 0 0 100% repeat; width: 216px; margin:auto; margin-bottom: 50px; } -
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Photo Contest Results - COOL JAPAN VIDEOS Winning Photos - Discover the Charms of Japan!
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COOL JAPAN VIDEOS Photo Contest Winners! Bringing the charms of Japan to the world. Photos taken with smartphones and processed photos are also eligible for entry! COOL JAPAN VIDEOS is always holding photo contests with different themes, such as Japanese culture, nature, Japan's four seasons, and more. COOL JAPAN VIDEOS is a "social video curation site" that introduces the charms of Japan to all people around the world who are interested in Japan. We have been holding photo contests since 2020, and this year, 2024, will mark our 22th contest. This article will introduce some of the wonderful works that have won awards in the past. Also, with the "COOL JAPAN VIDEOS" photo contests, even photos taken via smartphone can be winners! Stay tuned for contest details, and feel free to enter our contests after learning what they're all about! ■Table of Contents - Introduction of Past Photo Contest Winners The 23th Photo Contest The 22th Photo Contest The 21th Photo Contest The 20th Photo Contest The 19th Photo Contest The 18th Photo Contest The 17th Photo Contest The 16th Photo Contest The 15th Photo Contest The 14th Photo Contest The 13th Photo Contest The 12th Photo Contest The 11th Photo Contest The 10th Photo Contest The 9th Photo Contest The 8th Photo Contest The 7th Photo Contest The 6th Photo Contest The 5th Photo Contest The 4th Photo Contest The 3rd Photo Contest The 2nd Photo Contest The 1st Photo Contest - What is COOL JAPAN VIDEOS? - Features of COOL JAPAN VIDEOS Photo Contests - About Past Entries - Photo Contest Summary Introduction of Past Photo Contest Winners We're pleased to introduce the grand prize winners of our past photo contests. We have chosen works, to the best of our ability, that convey the charms of Japan via photography and make those who see them want to visit Japan. Every last one of these photos is fantastic! We'll also introduce the places where the photos were taken. [May 2024 - Jun 2024] The 23th COOL JAPAN VIDEOS Photo Contest: Announcement of Results Theme: Japanese History Prizes: ●Grand Prize: 30,000 yen Amazon gift card ●Honorable Mentions: 10,000 yen Amazon gift card ■Grand Prize Photographer:轡田憲行 Location:Akita Prefecture COOLJAPANVIDEOS Judges' Comments: A photograph capturing a scene from the traditional kagura dance, passed down since the founding of Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine in Kamakura City, Kanagawa Prefecture. Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine, established by Minamoto no Yoritomo, is a historic shrine known as the guardian deity of the Minamoto clan. The kagura performed at this sacred site carries on the ancient traditions and still retains its form today. We have selected this photograph for the grand prize due to its beautiful contrast between the glow of the flames and the darkness, evoking the depth and mystery of history. The solemnity and mystique of the ritual are felt through this remarkable image. ■Honorable Mentions ・Hyogo Prefecture ・Wakayama Prefecture ・Yamaguchi Prefecture ・Shizuoka Prefecture ・Oita Prefecture Click here to see the honorable mention photos 【Held from March to April 2024】Announcement of the results of the 22nd COOL JAPAN VIDEOS Photo Contest Theme: Spring in Japan Prize: ● Grand Prize Amazon gift certificates worth 30,000 yen ●Good work Amazon gift worth 10,000 yen ■ Grand Prize Photographer:Takaaki suzuki Photo shooting location: Akita prefecture COOLJAPANVIDEOS Jury commentary : Morning Sun and Fog (Akita Prefecture) "Play Park Tose" has a pond that is lined for 700 meters with cherry blossom tries. The inversed cherry blossoms reflected on the water's surface, the piercing rays of the morning sun shining through the clouds, and the rising ice fog come together to form a beautiful scene reminiscent of a pastel painting. This work was chosen for the grand prize. ■Good work ·Cherry blossom blizzard ·Toyama Prefecture ·Spring Hachimanbori ·Kawazu Cherry Blossoms ·Hakuryu Lake Fireworks You can see photos of good works here [January 2024 - February 2024] 21th COOL JAPAN VIDEOS Photo Contest results announced Theme: Views of Japan to Preserve for the Future Prize: ● Grand Prize 30,000 yen worth of Amazon gift certificates ●Good work Amazon gift worth 10,000 yen ■ Grand Prize Photographer:レオン Photo shooting location: Aritagawa Town COOLJAPANVIDEOS Jury comment: It is located in Aritagawa Town, Wakayama Prefecture, which was selected as one of the "100 Best Terraced Rice Fields in Japan" It is the autumn scenery of "Aragi Island". These rice terraces show various expressions throughout the four seasons. We especially recommend the terraced rice fields in the water mirror before rice planting, and the patchwork-like terraced rice fields during the autumn harvest season. ■Good work ·Jigozen Dike ·Gunkanjima ·Soya Hills ·Ruins of Naegi Castle ·Ochiai Village You can view photos of your best work here [November-December 2023】20th COOL JAPAN VIDEOS Photo Contest results announced Theme: The Beauty of Japan Prize: ● Grand Prize 30,000 yen worth of Amazon gift certificates ●Good work Amazon gift worth 10,000 yen ■ Grand Prize Photographer:YMD Photo shooting location: Aikura Gasho-zukuri village COOLJAPANVIDEOS Jury comment: Yukiyama and Cherry Blossom Toyama Prefecture Aikura Gasshozukuri Village "Aikura Gasshozukuri Village" in Toyama Prefecture is a national designated historical site and is registered as a World Heritage Site.When I looked down from the mountain where snow remained in the distant view, I saw cherry trees.We have selected the works of original Japanese scenery that you can feel the transition from winter to spring as the grand prize. ■Good work ·Okinawa's soul food "Soki Soba" ·Nishi-Azuma Mountain tree ice field straddling Yamagata and Fukushima Prefectures ·Burning Autumn, Fukushima Prefecture Bandai Azuma Skyline ·Showa retro Hokkaido "Inari Koji" ·Miyajima's "Daihonzan Daishoin" wearing autumn fog You can view photos of your best work here [Sep 2023 - Oct 2023] The 19th COOL JAPAN VIDEOS Photo Contest: Announcement of Results Theme: Autumn in Japan Prizes: ●Grand Prize: 30,000 yen Amazon gift card ●Honorable Mentions: 10,000 yen Amazon gift card ■Grand Prize Photographer:かずみさKazMisa Location:Oga Sanzan and the Terraced Rice Paddies of Anzenji, Akita COOLJAPANVIDEOS Judges' Comments: Oga Sanzan and the Terraced Rice Paddies of Anzenji, Akita This photo seems to have been taken from Namahage Bridge located on the Namahage Line. This breathtaking landscape photo shows the terraced rice fields of various shapes and sizes, dyed in autumn colors against the backdrop of the Oga Sanzan, the three iconic mountains of the Oga Peninsula in Akita Prefecture. The river running through the middle and the soft sunlight create a striking photo. We have selected this beautiful, idyllic photo as the Grand Prize winner. ■Honorable Mentions ・Four Seasons Garden, Fantasy Road ・Akiyoshidai at Sunset in Autumn ・Three Million Spider Lilies on the Yakachi River Bank ・The Autumn Festival at Kameyama Shrine in Hiroshima ・Fallen Leaves and Hokkaido's Ezo Squirrels Click here to see the honorable mention photos [Jul 2023 - Aug 2023] The 18th COOL JAPAN VIDEOS Photo Contest: Announcement of Results Theme: Japanese Festivals Prizes: ●Grand Prize: 30,000 yen Amazon gift card ●Honorable Mentions: 10,000 yen Amazon gift card ■Grand Prize Photographer:すっこ Location:Bingo Kokufu Festival, Hiroshima Prefecture COOLJAPANVIDEOS Judges' Comments: Bingo Kokufu Festival, Hiroshima Prefecture A photo of the climactic moment a handheld firework is launched. We have selected this powerful photo, through which you can almost feel the sparks, the smoke, and the hot wind, as the grand prize winner. ■Honorable Mentions ・Fireworks at Inuyama Castle, Aichi Prefecture ・Nishimonai Bon Odori, Akita Prefecture ・Furutone River Lantern Festival, Saitama Prefecture ・Gion Festival, Kyoto ・Milk Rice Crackers at a Temple Festival Click here to see the honorable mention photos [May 2023 - Jun 2023] The 17th COOL JAPAN VIDEOS Photo Contest: Announcement of Results Theme: Hidden Gem Tourist Attractions in Japan Prizes: ●Grand Prize: 30,000 yen Amazon gift card ●Honorable Mentions: 10,000 yen Amazon gift card ■Grand Prize Photographer: イエローフィット Location: Senaga Island COOLJAPANVIDEOS Judges' Comments: The Night View From Umikaji Terrace on Senaga Island The beautiful terrace is like an oasis in the desert. It's hard to believe it's even in Japan... The atmosphere is like something out of Sinbad, and we couldn't help but admire it. After enjoying dinner while watching the sunset, you can go for an evening stroll while savoring the sea breeze. We have chosen this work as the Grand Prize winner because it reminds us of a beautiful evening out. ■Honorable Mentions ・The Hanasaki Line Running Through Bekanbeushi Marsh ・Radio Towers and the Moon at the Top of Mt. Inasayama ・Sunset on a Hydrangea-Lined Road ・The Torii in the Sea at Hasama Underwater Park ・Saba River Koinobori Click here to see the honorable mention photos [Mar 2023 - Apr 2023] The 16th COOL JAPAN VIDEOS Photo Contest: Announcement of Results Theme: Tourist Attractions in Japan to Visit in Spring Prizes: ●Grand Prize: 30,000 yen Amazon gift card ●Honorable Mentions: 10,000 yen Amazon gift card ■Grand Prize Photographer: fumika714 Location: Nagasaki COOLJAPANVIDEOS Judges' Comments: Kanoukaen, a Samurai Process Beneath the Cherry Blossoms The largest fire festival in Unzen, Nagasaki, Kanoukaen was held for the first time in four years. The ephemeral beauty of the cherry blossoms, which bloom for only a short time and then fade away, move the hearts of the people. A total of 200 warriors, torches in hand paraded through Tachibana Park with dignity. This photo has a powerful atmosphere to it and is like something you'd seen in a movie. We have selected this work as the Grand Prize winner. ■Honorable Mentions ・Strawberry Picking ・Mt. Haku ・Koiwai Farm ・Miyajima ・Yamanashi Click here to see the honorable mention photos [Jan 2023 - Feb 2023] The 15th COOL JAPAN VIDEOS Photo Contest: Announcement of Results Theme: Japan Travel Destinations You Recommend Visiting in 2023 Prizes: ●Grand Prize: 30,000 yen Amazon gift card ●Honorable Mentions: 10,000 yen Amazon gift card ■Grand Prize Photographer: 小西諒 Location: Tottori Sand Dunes Covered COOLJAPANVIDEOS Judges' Comments: The Tottori Sand Dunes Covered in Snow, a Spectacular Winter Scene The setting sun turns the earth brown, and the view on the left resembles a giant crater. This is a photo that leave you wondering if it is actually earth. The sight of a person walking along the snow-covered dunes, leaving footprints behind, is also dramatic. We have selected this work, where the snow, sand, and sea meet, as the Grand Prize winner whose vertical composition accentuates the depth and beauty of the scene. ■Honorable Mentions ・Atami Castle ・Mt. Haku ・Lake Shikotsu ・Kidogorobei Village ・Itsukushima Shrine Click here to see the honorable mention photos [Oct 2022 - Dec 2022] The 14th COOL JAPAN VIDEOS Photo Contest: Announcement of Results Theme: Japan's Picturesque Scenery Prizes: ●Grand Prize: 30,000 yen Amazon gift card ●Honorable Mentions: 10,000 yen Amazon gift card ■Grand Prize Photographer: 山口貴広 Location: Takabocchi Highlands COOLJAPANVIDEOS Judges' Comments: Mt. Fuji and a Sea of Clouds Over the Suwa Basin This spectacular view can only be seen before dawn, when the wind is light and the weather conditions are just right. The fantastic sea of clouds and shimmering night view enhance the divine nature of Mt. Fuji. This photo was taken from the Takabocchi Highlands at 1665 meters above sea level. We have selected this work as the grand prize winner as it communicates such emotion that it makes us forget the harsh cold of winter. ■Honorable Mentions ・Notsuke Bay ・The Dragon Palace at Hiyoriyama Coast ・Angel's Ladders From Mt. Rokko ・A Snowy Night View of Sapporo ・Hiruzen Kogen Click here to see the honorable mention photos [Aug 2022 - Oct 2022] The 13th COOL JAPAN VIDEOS Photo Contest: Announcement of Results Theme: Japan Travel Memories Prizes: ●Grand Prize: 30,000 yen Amazon gift card ●Honorable Mentions: 10,000 yen Amazon gift card ■Grand Prize Photographer: rikopapa Location: Tokyo Disneyland COOLJAPANVIDEOS Judges' Comments: A Young Girl Gazing at Cinderella Castle at Night, Tokyo Disneyland After counting down the days, her dream finally came true. One can only imagine how she felt while looking up at the magical Cinderella Castle, illuminated with colorful lights. We have chosen this dramatic photo as the grand prize winner, a scene of precious memories for both the photographer and the photographed. ■Honorable Mentions ・Kihoku Lantern Festival ・Sayonara From the Ogasawara Islands ・Akashi Kaikyo Bridge at Sunset ・Okama Crater on Mt. Zao ・Yamaga Lantern Dance Click here to see the honorable mention photos [Jul 2022 - Aug 2022] The 12th COOL JAPAN VIDEOS Photo Contest: Announcement of Results Theme: Summer in Japan Prizes: ●Grand Prize: 30,000 yen Amazon gift card ●Honorable Mentions: 10,000 yen Amazon gift card ■Grand Prize Photographer: あ や か Location: Hanshin Koshien Stadium (Osaka) CoolJapanVideos Judges' Comments: A Moment of Victory for Sendai Ikuei Gakuen at Summer Koshien 2022 Sendai Ikuei Gakuen won the 104th National High School Baseball Championship. A dynamic shot capturing players on the mound and dust flying into the air. The combination of the winners raising their hands to the sky while a member of the losing team watches creates a very dramatic scene, and we have selected it as this contest's Grand Prize winner. ■Honorable Mentions ・Hanshin Koshien Stadium (Osaka) ・Rural Scenery ・Fukagawa Hachiman Festival (Tokyo) ・Nokonoshima Island (Fukuoka) ・A Sunflower Field ・Utsukushigahara Farm (Nagano) Click here to see the honorable mention photos [May 2022 - June 2022] The 11th COOL JAPAN VIDEOS Photo Contest: Announcement of Results Theme: Japan's Outdoors Prizes: ●Grand Prize: 30,000 yen Amazon gift card ●Honorable Mentions: 10,000 yen Amazon gift card ■Grand Prize Photographer: HIROKI Location: Hoshi ni Te no Todoku Oka Campsite (Hokkaido) CoolJapanVideos Judges' Comments: Hoshi ni Te no Todoku Oka Campsite in Nakafurano, Hokkaido A contrast between the beautiful starry sky and warm camp lights. We have selected this photo as the Grand Prize winner for its clear skies and the captivating nature of Furano. ■Honorable Mentions ・Paddleboarding at sunset on Matsue Beach (Akashi, Hyogo) ・Canoeing and autumn leaves at Lake Chuzenji (Nikko, Tochigi) ・The swing of Heidi, Girl of the Alps, at Hakuba Iwatake Mountain Resort (Kitaazumi, Nagano) ・Fuji on New Year's Day from a campground (Fuji, Shizuoka) ・Scuba diving at the Aragusuku Islands (Yaeyama, Okinawa) Click here to see the honorable mention photos [March 2022 - April 2022] The 10th COOL JAPAN VIDEOS Photo Contest: Announcement of Results Theme: Nature in Japan Prizes: ●Grand Prize: 30,000 yen Amazon gift card ●Honorable Mentions: 10,000 yen Amazon gift card ■Grand Prize Photographer: st situation Location: A tea plantation (Kamikawa, Hyogo) CoolJapanVideos Judges' Comments: The scenery of a tea plantation reminds us of the mountains that symbolize Japan. You can practically smell the crisp green air. We have selected this photo as the Grand Prize for its depiction of nature, which has been an integral part of life for the Japanese as an agrarian people since ancient times. ■Honorable Mentions ・Diamond Fuji and swans at Lake Yamanaka (Yamanakako, Yamanashi) ・A sea of clouds at the Yakuno Highlands (Fukuchiyama, Kyoto) ・Cherry blossoms at Koiwai Farm (Iwate District, Iwate) ・A midwinter glow (Kikuchi, Kumamoto) ・An evening view of Komezuka in autumn (Aso, Kumamoto Prefecture) Click here to see the honorable mention photos [January 2022 - February 2022] The 9th COOL JAPAN VIDEOS Photo Contest: Announcement of Results Theme: Japanese Events Prizes: ●Grand Prize: 30,000 yen Amazon gift card ●Honorable Mentions: 10,000 yen Amazon gift card ■Grand Prize Photographer: 甚四郎 Location: The Shiozawa Seppu Snow Festival (Minamiuonuma, Niigata) CoolJapanVideos Judges' Comments: The Shiozawa Seppu Snow Festival is held every year on the third Saturday in February in Shiozawa, Minamiuonuma, Niigata. This fantastic festival in the snow is held in honor of Bokushi Suzuki, the author of "Hokuetsu Seppu" and a literary figure of the Edo period, and to pass on the culture of the snow country. We are pleased to present the grand prize to this photograph of a beautiful, traditional festival featuring magical flames burning in the snow. ■Honorable Mentions ・The Kawarayu Onsen Yukake Festival (Naganohara, Gunma) ・Ose Festival, Uchiura Fishing Port Festival (Numazu, Shizuoka) ・Menburyu (Kashima, Saga) ・Bean-throwing on Setsubun ・A traditional bridal procession Click here to see the honorable mention photos [November 2021 - December 2021] The 8th COOL JAPAN VIDEOS Photo Contest: Announcement of Results Theme: Winter in Japan Prizes: ●Grand Prize: 30,000 yen Amazon gift card ●Honorable Mentions: 10,000 yen Amazon gift card ■Grand Prize Photographer: yuzu rin Location: The Weeping Cherry of Gion in Maruyama Park during winter (Kyoto city, Kyoto) CoolJapanVideos Judges' Comments: The Weeping Cherry of Gion in Maruyama Park, one of the most famous cherry blossom viewing spots in Kyoto Prefecture, and not far from Shijo-Kawaramachi and Gion, Kyoto's downtown area. The cherry blossoms bloom in spring and are popular with many tourists, but this photo shows the beauty of the cherry trees in winter, and the weeping cherry bathing in the moonlight gives the viewer a sense of Japanese wabi-sabi. We would like to award the Grand Prize to this photo, which exudes an overwhelming presence. ■Honorable Mentions ・A group of students going to school in the snow (Tokyo) ・Foxes at Zao Fox Village (Shiroishi, Miyagi) ・A shinkansen traveling through the snow (Maibara, Shiga) ・Eel fishing at night (Tokushima City, Tokushima) ・Snowy scenery at Lake Nakamaki (Nagano City, Nagano) Click here to see the honorable mention photos [September 2021 - October 2021] The 7th COOL JAPAN VIDEOS Photo Contest: Announcement of Results Theme: Autumn in Japan Prizes: ●Grand Prize: 30,000 yen Amazon gift card ●Honorable Mentions: 10,000 yen Amazon gift card ■Grand Prize Photographer: st situation Location: Iwagami Shrine (Shiso, Hyogo) CoolJapanVideos Judges' Comments: Ginkgo trees at Iwagami Shrine in Hyogo Prefecture. The yellow carpet and the ginkgo leaves dancing in the wind create an amazing, autumnal atmosphere. The grand prize goes to this photo, which captures a rare and spectacular view that can only be seen during the autumn foliage season. ■Honorable Mentions ・A harvest moon and otsukimi decorations ・Shrine maidens dancing at Dazaifu Tenmangu Shrine (Dazaifu, Fukuoka) ・The "see no evil, hear no evil, speak no evil" Jizo statues at Daisho-in Temple (Hatsukaichi, Hiroshima) ・Silver grass on the Tonomine Highlands (Kanzaki, Hyogo) ・Rolls of straw after rice harvesting Click here to see the honorable mention photos [July 2021 - August 2021] The 6th COOL JAPAN VIDEOS Photo Contest: Announcement of Results Theme: Summer in Japan Prizes: ●Grand Prize: 30,000 yen Amazon gift card ●Honorable Mentions: 10,000 yen Amazon gift card ■Grand Prize Photographer: Lily0321 Location: The Fukagawa Festival (Koto, Tokyo) CoolJapanVideos Judges' Comments: The Fukagawa Festival is a festival held every year around August 15 at Tomioka Hachimangu Shrine in Koto, Tokyo. It is one of the Three Great Festivals of Edo and has a history of around 370 years. It is also known as the "Water Throwing Festival" because people splash water around to beat the heat. We were very impressed by the dynamism and the smiles of the participants splashing water on each other in the photo. We would like to award the Grand Prize to this photo that captures the spirit of traditional Japanese festivals. ■Honorable Mentions ・Blue skies and a red Mt. Fuji (Oshino, Yamanashi) ・Blue skies and a bicycle (Hyogo, Japan) ・Bug catching in the rice paddies ・The sea and terraced rice paddies (Hirado, Nagasaki) ・Children playing in a fountain (Toshima, Tokyo) Click here to see the honorable mention photos [May 2021 - June 2021] The 5th COOL JAPAN VIDEOS Photo Contest: Announcement of Results Theme: Places in Japan you want to visit After Corona Prizes: ●Grand Prize: 30,000 yen Amazon gift card ●Honorable Mentions: 10,000 yen Amazon gift card ■Grand Prize Photographer: Nguyen Vu Location: Umeda (Osaka City, Osaka) CoolJapanVideos Judges' Comments: This contest's grand prize winner is a scene of a Japanese city at night with neon lights. The lights in the downtown area, which we have always taken for granted, have become lonely due to Corona. We chose this work with the hope that the colorful neon lights and the smiling faces of the people will soon return. ■Honorable Mentions ・A couple wearing yukata at the Gion Festival (Kyoto City, Kyoto) ・A leopard at Asahiyama Zoo (Asahikawa, Hokkaido) ・Sunset at Chirihama Nagisa Driveway (Hakui, Ishikawa) ・Geiko in Higashiyama (Kyoto City, Kyoto) ・Fireworks in Noshiro (Noshiro, Akita) Click here to see the honorable mention photos [March 2021 - April 2021] The 4th COOL JAPAN VIDEOS Photo Contest: Announcement of Results Theme: Spring in Japan Prizes: ●Grand Prize: 30,000 yen Amazon gift card ●Honorable Mentions: 10,000 yen Amazon gift card ■Grand Prize Photographer: toru.s_ Location: Cherry blossoms and rape blossoms at Sakitama Kofun Park (Gyoda, Saitama) CoolJapanVideos Judges' Comments: Climbing up the hill you'll feel the breath of spring and discover beautiful scenery all around you. We would like to award the Grand Prize to the entry that expresses a path to hope, as if heading towards the exit of a Corona filled world. ■Honorable Mentions ・A horseback archery tournament (Towada, Aomori) ・A child walking along a path lined with cherry trees (Kaga, Ishikawa) ・Cherry blossoms and a sea of clouds at Omori Resort Village (Yokote, Akita) ・Snowy mountains and cherry blossoms at Oide Park (Hakuba, Nagano) ・An onagadori and plum blossoms Click here to see the honorable mention photos [January 2021 - February 2021] The 3rd COOL JAPAN VIDEOS Photo Contest: Announcement of Results Theme: Winter in Japan Prizes: ●Grand Prize: 30,000 yen Amazon gift card ●Honorable Mentions: 10,000 yen Amazon gift card ■Grand Prize Photographer: rikopapa Location: Unknown CoolJapanVideos Judges' Comments: One of the most popular New Year's activities is kite flying We're happy to see that this traditional game, which has been around since the Edo period, has been passed down to today's children. The cold winter air and the warmth of the sun's rays are so gentle that it almost feels as if they're watching over you. We'd like to award the Grand Prize to the photo that evokes said nostalgia. ■Honorable Mentions ・A snowy Atago Shrine (Beppu, Oita) ・The snowy landscape of the Kirigamine Highlands (Suwa, Nagano) ・The snowy townscape of Hida Takayama (Takayama, Gifu) ・Japanese macaques bathing in hot springs (Shimotakai, Nagano) ・Swans flying south for the winter (Azumino, Nagano) Click here to see the honorable mention photos [November 2020 - December 2020] The 2nd COOL JAPAN VIDEOS Photo Contest: Announcement of Results Theme: Japanese Gourmet Prizes: ●Grand Prize: 10,000 yen Amazon gift card ●Honorable Mentions: 5,000 yen Amazon gift card ■Grand Prize Photographer: しゅん Location: KUROMATSU Ramen (Takasaki, Gunma) CoolJapanVideos Judges' Comments: This is a photo that conveys the deliciousness of a popular ramen restaurant that's always attracting long lines of customers. The clear soup and neatly arranged noodles create a beautiful display. ■Honorable Mentions Here are the themes of the honorable mentions. ・Ozoni - Near Ishimizu Hachimangu Shrine (Kyoto City, Kyoto) ・Kaki-no-ha Sushi Yamanobe (Sakurai, Nara) ・Hana-bi Dango - Terakoya Honpo (Kyoto City, Kyoto) ・Shiruko - Toraya Kobo (Gotemba, Shizuoka) ・Fisherman's Pickled Seafood Bowl - Izu Kogen Brewery (Ito, Shizuoka) Click here to see the honorable mention photos [September 2020 - October 2020] The 1st COOL JAPAN VIDEOS Photo Contest: Announcement of Results Theme: The Beauty of Japan Prizes: ●Grand Prize: 200,000 yen Amazon gift card ●Honorable Mentions: 50,000 yen Amazon gift card ■Grand Prize Photographer: Yuto Yamada Location: Daigoji Temple (Kyoto City, Kyoto) CoolJapanVideos Judges' Comments: This work matches the theme "The Beauty of Japan" and is a perfect fit for the Grand Prize. The sentimentality of autumn, the wabi-sabi of Japan, and the modesty of Japan are all expressed in a single photograph. The colors of the leaves and the colors of the kimono and Japanese umbrellas worn by the people match perfectly, making it a very attractive picture. ■Honorable Mentions ・The torii in the sky at Takaya Shrine (Kanonji, Kagawa) ・Fresh greenery at Hase Temple (Sakurai, Nara) ・Mt. Fuji and Lake Ashi in winter (Kanagawa, Japan) ・Tea picking at Obuchi Sasaba with Mt. Fuji in the background (Fuji, Shizuoka) The grand prize for the memorable 1st COOL JAPAN VIDEOS Photo Contest was 200,000 yen, with honorable mentions awarded 50,000 yen each! We received many submissions that conveyed the beauty of Japan. Many of the works included famous sightseeing spots and traditional events in Japan, the beautiful scenery of spring, summer, fall, and winter, as well as Japanese culture and history. In addition to one grand prize winner and five honorable mentions, 50 entries were selected from the first contest. Click here to see the honorable mention photos and other submissions The winning photos and other entries were used in the promotional video for COOL JAPAN VIDEOS. The 1 minute and 40 second video shows one beautiful photo after another with each photographer's name, and is a collection of Japan's "wabi-sabi." Please take a look at it. What is COOL JAPAN VIDEOS? COOL JAPAN VIDEOS is a social video curation site that introduces the charms of Japan to people all over the world who are interested in Japan. ・We carefully select and present attractive videos of Japan from major video sites ・Users can communicate with people all over the world by posting photos and commenting on videos ・You can have your own "My Page," and registration is completely free! Click here for more information about COOLJAPANVIDEOS Features of COOL JAPAN VIDEOS Photo Contests 「COOL JAPAN VIDEOS photo contests are open to everyone! Below is a partial list of what can be entered. ・Photos taken not only with SLR cameras and digital cameras, but also with smartphones and other devices can be submitted. ・You can submit as many photos as you like during the contest period. ・Image editing, such as cropping and color changes, is also allowed! Detailed submission guidelines for COOL JAPAN VIDEOS Photo Contests can be found at the bottom of the ongoing photo contest page. About Past Entries We received many great photos in our past photo contests! Click the link below to view past photo contest entries! ※Click here to see photos submitted in past contests. Photo Contest Summary We are always holding COOL JAPAN VIDEOS Photo Contests! Not only professional photographers, but also beginner photographers are welcome to enter. Even just a casual shot taken via smartphone has a chance to be a winning photo! Help us introduce the beauty of Japan with the world. We're looking forward to receiving everyone's submissions! Related Articles Text only Photo Contest Landscape Photography - Introducing 10 Beautiful Japanese Landscapes Text only Children of COOL JAPAN VIDEOS Photo Contests: 10 Heartwarming Photos That Will Put a Smile on Your Face! Text only Autumn in COOL JAPAN VIDEOS Photo Contests: 10 Beautiful Photos of Autumn in Japan Text only Mt. Fuji in COOL JAPAN VIDEOS Photo Contests: 10 Photos Showcasing the Different Views of Mt. Fuji Text only Hokkaido in COOL JAPAN VIDEOS Photo Contests: From Popular Sightseeing Spots to Exotic Animals, Discover the Beauty of Japan's Northernmost Prefecture! Text only Tohoku in COOL JAPAN VIDEOS Photo Contests: Hot Springs, Festivals, Snowscapes, and More – 10 Beautiful Photos of Japan's Tohoku Region! 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Video article 44:30
Rishiri Island in Rishiri-gun, Hokkaido is a remote island rich in nature that can be reached directly by ferry from Wakkanai! Enjoy the summer on Rishiri Island by climbing Mt. Rishiri, cycling, and other activities, as well as enjoying fresh sea urchins, a specialty of Rishiri, and other local seafood!
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■Table of Contents What Kind of Place is Rishiri Island? Recommended Tourist Attractions in Rishirifuji Otatomari Marsh, the Most Popular Tourist Attraction on Rishiri Island Hime Marsh, a Tourist Attraction Famous for Its Reflection of the Upside-Down Rishiri Fuji Shiroi Koibito no Oka, the Package Design for a Famous Hokkaido Confection 3 Popular Cycling Courses on Rishiri Island Rishiri Saikuru Road Rishirifuji Green Line Rishiri Island Blue Line Rishiri Island Fureai Cycling Tour, a Popular Event on Rishiri Island Activities to Try On Rishiri Island Family Campsite Yuni – Enjoy Island Camping Under the Stars Rishirifuji Onsen – Relax and Rejuvenate After a Long Day of Traveling Water Sports on Rishiri Island Rishiri Yu-Yu Running, a Popular Marathon Around the Island Hiking on Mt. Rishiri – A Climbing Guide for Beginners and Advanced Climbers Climbing Season: June to September Mt. Rishiri Hiking Trails Oshidomari Hiking Trail (Beginner - Intermediate Hiking Trail) Kutsugata Hiking Trail (Advanced Hiking Trail) The Best Foods on Rishiri Island The Mouthwatering Sea Urchin of Rishiri Island Rishiri Island, a Treasure Trove of Seafood Delicacies Popular Souvenirs on Rishiri Island How to Get to Rishiri Island How to Get to Rishiri Island by Airplane How to Get to Rishiri Island by Ferry An Unforgettable Travel Experience Awaits You on Rishiri Island! What Kind of Place is Rishiri Island? This video, titled "Rishiri Island, Hokkaido - Cycling PR Video (Long Version) - Summer Edition" (北海道利尻島 サイクリングPR動画 ロングver ~夏編~), was uploaded by "Rishirifuji Town Hall." The video tells the story of one woman, tired from her daily life in the city, who travels to Rishiri Island in Hokkaido in the summer in search of escape. The vast skies and expansive landscape of Rishiri Island are not something that can be conveyed simply by glancing at a travel brochure. The footage shown in the video captures the excitement that one can experience by physically visiting Rishiri Island. Be sure to check out the video for a tour of Rishiri Island by rental bicycle, and experience the culture, gastronomy, and warm interactions with the local people of Rishiri Island. Photo:Mt. Rishiri (Rishiri Fuji), Rishiri Island, Hokkaido Rishiri Island is a small island with a circumference of 60 km, that can be toured via car in just 1.5 hours, and is full of delectable delicacies to indulge in! This article will provide information on tourist attractions on Rishiri Island during the tourist season from early summer to autumn. Enjoy the spectacular views of the upside-down Rishiri Fuji, Shiroi Koibito no Oka, as well as outdoor activities, such as camping, hiking, and cycling, and seafood delicacies made using freshly caught sea urchin from Rishiri Island. We'll also go over how to get to Rishiri Island, so if you're thinking about traveling to Rishiri Island, be sure to stay tuned for all of this useful information! Recommended Tourist Attractions in Rishirifuji Rishiri Island is located in the Sea of Japan in northern Hokkaido and has a population of around 2,200. The name "Rishiri" comes from the Ainu word "Riishiri," which means "Island with tall mountain(s)," a reference to Mt. Rishiri, located directly in the center of the island. Located approximately 52 kilometers west of the city of Wakkanai, the northernmost point of Japan, the island can be reached via ferry in roughly 1 hour and 40 minutes. During the summer months, June through August, when the island is busy as a tourist destination, the average temperature in Rishirifuji stays below 68°F. Because the temperature varies depending on the weather and time of day, it's recommended that you bring something you can easily throw on and take off, as it's cool and comfortable in the summer as well. Rishiri Island consists of two towns, Rishirifuji and Rishiri. This article will introduce selected tourist attractions and things to do in Rishirifuji. Otatomari Marsh, the Most Popular Tourist Attraction on Rishiri Island Photo:Otatomari Marsh, Rishiri Island, Hokkaido Located in the southeastern part of the island, Otatomari Marsh is the largest lake on Rishiri Island. You can see Otatomari Marsh, the most popular tourist attraction on Rishiri Island, starting at 21:54 in the video. Otatomari Marsh is located on the opposite side of the island from the port of Oshidomari, and can be reached via bus in approximately 35 minutes. If you visit Otatomari Marsh, we highly recommend a walk along the promenade. On the well-maintained 1-kilometer long, 30-minute walking trail, visitors can enjoy a spectacular view of Mt. Rishiri and the seasonal vegetation in the area. Moreover, if the weather and other conditions are right, you can even see Rishiri Fuji (Mt. Rishiri) reflected upside down on the surface of the lake. The beautiful blue surface of the lake, surrounded by a forest of Sakhalin spruces, is so beautiful that it's no wonder it's called the best tourist attraction on Rishiri Island. Rishiri Island is known as the area where cherry blossoms bloom the latest in Japan. On the Otatomari Marsh boardwalk, you can enjoy cherry blossom viewing in early June. In the video, you can see Otatomari Marsh in its entirety via aerial footage, and you'll be amazed at the natural beauty stretching as far as the eye can see. Photo:Minamihama Marsh, Rishiri Island, Hokkaido Around Otatomari Marsh is the largest marshland on Rishiri Island, Numaura Marsh, which has been designated as a Natural Monument by the town of Rishirifuji. The marshland is called "Mikazukinuma" (lit. "Crescent Moon Marsh"), and is said to be a phantom swamp because it can only be seen for a couple months during the winter when there is snow on the ground. At the rest house in the parking lot of Otatomari Marsh, visitors can purchase snacks made from freshly caught seafood from Rishiri, such as scallops baked in butter and grilled whelks, as well as souvenirs like Rishiri Kombu, the high-quality dried seaweed of Rishiri. Otatomari Marsh Information 【Address】Numaura Oniwaki, Rishirifuji, Rishiri District, Hokkaido 097-0211 【Telephone】0163-82-2201 (Tourist Information Center in Oshidomari Ferry Terminal) 【Parking】29 cars 【Access】Take the Soya Bus (宗谷バス) bound for Oniwaki (鬼脇) from Oshidomari Port and get off at Otatomari-numa (オタトマリ沼) (approx. 35 mins). Hime Marsh, a Tourist Attraction Famous for Its Reflection of the Upside-Down Rishiri Fuji Another popular tourist attraction on Rishiri Island is Hime Marsh (Himenuma Marsh), where visitors can enjoy a spectacular view of the natural scenery of the town of Rishirifuji. Hime Marsh can be seen from 18:00 in the video. Photo:Hime Marsh, Rishiri Island, Hokkaido Hime Marsh is a unique marsh surrounded by nature, located approximately 2 km (1.2 miles) southeast of Oshidomari Port, the gateway to Rishiri Island. A 100-meter walk along a well-maintained promenade from the nearby parking will take you to Hime Marsh. On the way to the promenade you'll find Memory Bridge (想い出橋) (video 18:17~), a suspension bridge spanning the Omobetsu River, which is surrounded by greenery and has a wonderful atmosphere. The murmur of the river below is therapeutic. The main attraction of Hime Marsh is the reflection of the upside-down Rishiri Fuji (another name for Mt. Rishiri) on the surface of the pond. From early- to mid-morning is the best time to see the upside-down Rishiri Fuji, as the surface is of the pond is still undisturbed by the sun and there are few waves caused by the wind. Hime Marsh is also a popular photo spot on Rishiri Island for capturing fantastic photos. Photo:Rishiri Fuji at Hime Marsh, Rishiri Island, Hokkaido Hime Marsh, with a circumference of approximately 800 meters (~2,600 ft) and a depth of 2 meters (6.5 ft), is said to be the remains of an explosion crater, and it looks as though the ground has been gouged out. The lakeside promenade, designated as Himenuma Park, is home to wild birds and plants that will make the 20-minute walk around it a memorable one. From the Himenuma Observatory, you can enjoy a panoramic view of Cape Peshi and Oshidomari Port, which are sure to be an unforgettable part of your trip! Hime Marsh is an artificial pond made of a small marsh and spring water, which was created about 100 years ago in 1917, and is full of trout that were released into it. Knowing facts and tidbits of information like this will make your trip to Rishiri Island even more enjoyable. There are restrooms in the parking lot and a store in front of Hime Marsh, making it a great place for cyclists to take a break during their trip to Rishiri Island. Hime Marsh Information 【Address】Wannai Oshidomari, Rishirifuji, Rishiri District, Hokkaido 097-0101 【Operation Period】May-October 【Telephone】0163-82-2201 (Tourist Information Center in Oshidomari Ferry Terminal) 【Parking】16 cars 【Access】Take the Soya Bus (宗谷バス) bound for Oniwaki (鬼脇) from Oshidomari Port, get off at Himenuma-guchi (姫沼口) (5 min.), and walk 30-40 minutes. Shiroi Koibito no Oka, the Package Design for a Famous Hokkaido Confection Photo:Shiroi Koibito no Oka, Rishiri Island, Hokkaido Shiroi Koibito no Oka (White Lover's Hill) (video 20:40) is a new tourist attraction in Rishirifuji that was created in 2014. It's a 35-minute bus ride from Oshidomari Port, a 15-minute walk from Otatomari Marsh, and is located on the coast across Route 108 from Otatomari Marsh. The official name of Shiroi Koibito no Oka is "Numaura Observatory." From the hill, you can see Mt. Rishiri over Otatomari Marsh, the Numaura Coast on the ocean side, and mainland of Hokkaido beyond the magnificent Sea of Japan, providing a spectacular panoramic view of the island. It's a must-see view when visiting Rishiri Island. Shiroi Koibito no Oka (White Lover's Hill) is depicted on the package of "Shiroi Koibito," a delicious cookie and popular souvenir from Hokkaido. The picture on the package of the cookies is a depiction of a snow-covered Mt. Rishiri seen from this area. Shiroi Koibito is a western-style confectionery made of chocolate sandwiched between crispy cookies and sold by Ishiya, a confectionery manufacturer in Sapporo, Hokkaido, and is one of the most popular souvenirs in Hokkaido, selling approximately 200 million pieces annually since 1976. If you propose on Shiroi Koibito no Oka and bring a photo taken there to the Rishirifuji Tourism Association office at Oshidomari Ferry Terminal, you'll receive a proposal certificate officially approved by Ishiya, the manufacturer of Shiroi Koibito. It will be a treasured memory of your travels in Hokkaido and a lifetime memory for you and your partner. Shiroi Koibito no Oka Information 【Address】Rishirifuji, Rishiri District, Hokkaido 097-0211 【Operation Period】May-October 【Telephone】0163-82-1114 (Rishirifuji Industry, Commerce, and Tourism Promotion Division) 【Parking】10 cars 【Access】Take the Soya Bus (宗谷バス) bound for Oniwaki (鬼脇) from Oshidomari Port, get off at Otatomari-numa (オタトマリ沼) (approx. 35 mins). 3 Popular Cycling Courses on Rishiri Island The video shows a woman on a trip to Rishiri Island who tours the island while cycling from one attraction to the next. Rishiri Island is known as one of the best cycling spots in Japan. Cycling on Rishiri Island through the beautiful natural scenery of Hokkaido while feeling the pleasant breeze of northern Japan is an experience that will make you oblivious to the passing of time and help wash away your fatigue. Cyclists gather from all over Japan to enjoy the spectacular natural scenery of Hokkaido. Photo:Image of cycling, Rishiri Island, Hokkaido The following is a list of recommended cycling courses on Rishiri Island: ・Rishiri Saikuru Road (利尻・彩くるロード) ・Rishiri Fuji Green Line (利尻富士グリーンライン) ・Rishiri Island Blue Line (利尻島絶景ブルーライン) Here are the characteristics of each course. Rishiri Saikuru Road The course is enjoyable for beginners as there are relatively few major ups and downs, but it is suitable for those who are confident in their physical strength as it circles the island's approximately 60-kilometer (~37.3 miles) circumference. A 24.9 km (15.5 miles) bicycle path is provided along the course, and you can rent a bicycle in Oshidomari to start your cycling tour. If you ride clockwise, you can ride along the west coast in the evening, and you may be able to see a beautiful sunset. The course will take about 7 hours if you ride at a speed of 8 km/h (5 mph) while slowly taking in the natural scenery, so it's recommended that you leave around 9:00 a.m. to return before the sun sets. During your cycling tour, you can visit the following tourist attractions on Rishiri Island. Photo:A beautiful sunset, Rishiri Island, Hokkaido Rishiri Saikuru Road Course Oshidomari Ferry Terminal → Rishirifuji Onsen → Wannai Ohashi Bridge (湾内大橋) → Hime Marsh → Oniwaki → Shiroi Koibito no Oka → Otatomari Marsh → Minamihama Marsh → Senhoshimisaki Park → Reiho Yusui (麗峰湧水) → Itsukushima Benten Shrine of the North (北のいつくしま弁天宮) → Neguma no Iwa/Jinmen Iwa (寝熊の岩・人面岩) → Kamui Kaigan Park → Rishiri Athletic Park (利尻町運動公園) → Rishiri Forest Park (利尻町森林公園) → Fujino Park (富士野園地) (video 7:13) → Yuhigaoka Observatory → Rishirifuji Onsen and Footbath (利尻富士温泉・足湯) → Oshidomari Ferry Terminal Photo:Rishiri Saikuru Road cycling map Rishirifuji Green Line A short course for families to enjoy the streets of Rishirifuji with a total distance of 6.5 km (4 miles) and taking approximately 1 to 2 hours to complete. You can stop at popular tourist spots in Rishirifuji in the northern part of Rishiri Island, such as the Yuhigaoka Observatory where you can see a beautiful sunset over the Sea of Japan and Rebun Island, Umi no Eki Oshidomari (video 4:45), and the Cape Peshi Observatory (Lighthouse of Love). Rishirifuji Green Line Course Oshidomari Ferry Terminal → Rishirifuji Onsen → Fujino Park (video 7:13~) → Izumi no Fukuroma → Oshidomari Ferry Terminal Photo:Rishiri Fuji Green Line cycling map Rishiri Island Blue Line A casual, easygoing cycling course that takes around 2 to 3 hours to complete and covers a total distance of 18 km (~11.2 miles), taking cyclists around popular tourist attractions in the town of Rishirifuji in the northern part of Rishiri Island. A bicycle path is maintained for bicycles only, so you can enjoy a safe cycling tour. Depending on the season, you can see people fishing from the shoreline, as well as kelp laid out in rows to dry with Rishiri Fuji in the backdrop, a view that is unique to this port town. From Wanai Ohashi Bridge (湾内大橋), you can enjoy a spectacular panoramic view of the blue sea and Mt. Rishiri. Photo:Cape Peshi, cycling course Photo:Kelp being laid out to dry Rishiri Island Blue Line Course Oshidomari Ferry Terminal → Nozuka Observatory → Hime Marsh → Wanai Ohashi Bridge → Rishirifuji Onsen → Oshidomari Ferry Terminal Photo:Rishiri Island Blue Line Course cycling map Rishiri Island Fureai Cycling Tour, a Popular Event on Rishiri Island In late August, the Rishiri Island Fureai Cycling Tour (利尻島一周ふれあいサイクリング) is held. Rishiri Island residents and cycling enthusiasts from all over Japan participate in this event because they can enjoy the beautiful views of Rishiri Island and experience the nature of the island firsthand. This is an event where you can ride a bicycle around the island with many other participants while experiencing the island's charms to the fullest. Photo:Rishiri Island Fureai Cycling Tour Before you start cycling, be sure to pick up a cycling map. The map is a detailed guide to the entire cycling course on Rishiri Island, so it will not only help you choose the right course, but also ensure that you don't get lost along the way. Please rest assured that you can have an enjoyable cycling tour, as there are bike stands, tools, and air tanks available at various locations on Rishiri Island. If you're looking to enjoy a casual cycling experience on Rishiri Island, we recommend using the rental bicycles. Some inns rent bicycles exclusively to guests, so be sure to check with them in advance if you wish to use one. Electric bicycles are also available for rent, so those lacking confidence in their physical strength or those who have never cycled for long periods of time need not worry. Prices for rental bicycles range from approximately 1,500 yen to 3,000 yen ($10 to $20 USD) per day. When cycling on Rishiri Island, please keep in mind that the course around Rishiri Island is quite long, taking about 7 hours to complete, so it's important to pay attention to your physical condition as well as your equipment. Also, as the island coexists with nature, be sure to act in a manner that respects the natural environment. Activities to Try On Rishiri Island When visiting Hokkaido, there's plenty of things to do that allow you to enjoy the natural wonders of the island. Family Campsite Yuni – Enjoy Island Camping Under the Stars Photo:A starry sky on Rishiri Island This remote location, far from the city, offers an unparalleled view of the starry night sky as far as the eye can see. It's a bucket list experience in Hokkaido, where you can fall asleep with a smile on your face. Because there is little light pollution on Rishiri Island, you can enjoy an extraordinary time seeing the Milky Way and watching shooting stars. There are five campgrounds on Rishiri Island, and this article will introduce Family Campsite Yuni (ファミリーキャンプ場ゆ~に), located in the town of Rishirifuji. Located in Rishirifuji Amenity Park (利尻富士町アメニティパーク), a 5-minute drive from Oshidomari Port, Family Campsite Yuni is across the street from Rishirifuji Onsen (Rishirifuji Spa), the northernmost natural hot spring in Japan. This campground is popular among campers who seek the to enjoy an open-air hot spring while camping. At Family Campsite Yuni, there are bungalows and cottages available, and there are plenty of rental items, including tents and sleeping bags. You can also purchase supplies such as charcoal and barbecue equipment, so you and your friends or family can visit empty handed. From the campground, you can see the summit of Mt. Rishiri, making it a popular place to stay before or after hiking the mountain. The campground is relatively new and clean, and reservations are not required for tent sites, making it a convenient place to enjoy the outdoors. Photo:Family Campsite Yuni, Rishiri Island, Hokkaido Family Campsite Yuni Information 【Address】Sakaemachi Oshidomari, Rishirifuji, Rishiri District, Hokkaido 097-0101 【Operation Period】May 1 - October 31 【Parking】29 cars 【Admission Fee】Adults: 520 yen, Elementary school students and younger: 310 yen ※As of June, 2023. Rishirifuji Onsen – Relax and Rejuvenate After a Long Day of Traveling Photo:Outdoor baths at Rishirifuji Onsen, Rishiri Island, Hokkaido Rishirifuji Onsen, located across the street from Family Campsite Yuni, is a famous hot spring on Rishiri Island that attracts some 60,000 visitors a year. If you're going to the nearby Family Campsite Yuni, we highly recommend checking it out, as it's a fun experience on Rishiri Island. The open-air bath with a view of Mt. Rishiri and the ocean is a special treat for tired bodies. The sunset over the Sea of Japan and the starry night sky make the open-air bath the ultimate experience. After enjoying the open-air baths, you can sample the famous "Kanro Sensui," a famous spring water from Rishirifuji. Relaxing in open-air baths while enjoying a view of Mt. Rishiri will help wash away the fatigue from your trip. Rishirifuji Onsen Information 【Address】Sakaemachi-227-7 Oshidomari, Rishirifuji, Rishiri District, Hokkaido 097-0101 【Telephone】0163-82-2388 【Hours】Noon - 9:00 pm Water Sports on Rishiri Island For those looking for even more things to do on Rishiri Island, we recommend trying out marine activities, such as sea kayaking tours and SUP (Stand up paddleboarding) (video 13:20~). Photo:Sea kayaking, Rishiri Island, Hokkaido Surrounded by the sea, Rishiri Island features many surfing spots that can be enjoyed by beginners and advanced surfers alike, making it a popular surfing spot in Japan. Photo:Surfing, Rishiri Island, Hokkaido Rishiri Yu-Yu Running, a Popular Marathon Around the Island Rishiri Yu-Yu Running is a 53.67-km (33.3 mile) round-the-island marathon that can be completed in less than 10 hours. It's a popular event with a course that allows participants to enjoy views of the sea and Mt. Rishiri during their run. Around June, when the event is held, the average temperature is a comfortable 13°C to 15°C (55°F to 59°F), making it a pleasant race. After working up a sweat while enjoying nature, you'll receive a hot spring ticket useable at Rishirifuji Onsen, and transportation will be provided so that you can relax in the hot springs after the marathon. Photo:Rishiri Yu-Yu Running marathon, Rishiri Island, Hokkaido Hiking on Mt. Rishiri – A Climbing Guide for Beginners and Advanced Climbers Photo:Rishiri Fuji (Mt. Rishiri), Rishiri Island, Hokkaido Mt. Rishiri, the northernmost of Japan's "100 Famous Japanese Mountains," stands at 1,721 meters (5,646 feet) above sea level in the center of Rishiri Island. Although its official name is Mt. Rishiri, it's often called Rishiri Fuji (not to be confused with the town Rishirifuji) for its beautifully conical silhouette reminiscent of Mt. Fuji. It's also known for its abundance of alpine flora, many of which are unique to this area. The Oshidomari Hiking Trail is a well-maintained trail, so beginners can hike up the mountain with relative ease. That being said, it's a 5-to-6-hour ascent and a 3-to-4-hour descent, making it an all-day affair, so it's recommended that those who are not confident in their stamina do not attempt the hike. The greatest attraction of this day-long climb up Mt. Rishiri is the view from the summit. Rishiri Island itself is a mountain, and the summit offers an amazing panoramic view of the island. The view can only be seen by those who reach the summit of Mt. Rishiri, but it's well worth the climb. Climbing Season: June to September Photo:Remaining snow on Rishiri Fuji (Mt. Rishiri) ・Early June The average temperature at the summit in early June is 6.4°C (43.5°F), and crampons may be required at the summit due to lingering snow ・Early July The average temperature at the summit in early July is 9°C to 12°C (48.2°F to 53.6°F); and crowds and congestion often occur during the peak of climbing tour season. ・Late August - Early September In late August and early September, the minimum temperature can drop below freezing, so be sure to bring cold weather gear. During the climbing season, it's warm with alpine plants in full bloom, and the carpet of flowers that spreads across the mountain has earned led to it being recognized as one of the best places to see mountain flowers in Japan. Mt. Rishiri Hiking Trails Mt. Rishiri is a popular climbing spot visited by about 10,000 climbers annually, and there are two hiking trails located on the mountain: the Oshidomari Hiking Trail and the Kutsugata Hiking Trail. It's recommended that you start with the Oshidomari Hiking Trail, which is appropriate for beginners and intermediate hikers. There was a third trail, the former Oniwaki Hiking Trail, but it has been closed due to hazards. Oshidomari Hiking Trail (Beginner - Intermediate Hiking Trail) The trailhead is about 60 minutes on foot from Oshidomari Port at Rishiri Hokuroku Campsite (利尻北麓野営場) where there is also a hiking trail for Mt. Pon (ポン山, Pon Yama). Since there are no buses running early in the morning, care must be taken when going to the trailhead. It's best to find a guest house that can provide transportation to the trailhead. At the 3rd station, you'll find Kanro Sensui (甘露泉水) (video 9:59), the only source of water on Mt. Rishiri, which has been selected as one of Japan's 100 Remarkable Waters. The water from Kanro Sensui, which is subsoil water from Mt. Rishiri, is characterized by its mild sweetness. It's an oasis for climbers of Mt. Rishiri to quench their thirst. From the 5th station, the trail continues gently uphill through the trees, but from the 6th station, the incline gradually increases. From the 9th station, the trail converges with the Kutsugata Hiking Trail, and the footholds on the way to the summit become worse, so ropes are placed at dangerous spots. Kutsugata Hiking Trail (Advanced Hiking Trail) The Kutsugata Hiking Trail is shorter than the Oshidomari Hiking Trail, but is more difficult due to its steeper incline and is therefore recommended for advanced climbers. The trailhead is located at the Mikaeridai Park, approximately 500 meters (1,640 ft) above sea level, and the trailhead is the 5th station. After the 8th station, the incline increases toward Mt. Sancho (三眺山), and the difficulty persists beyond this point. From the 9th station, the trail converges with the Oshidomari Hiking Trail. By having a veteran guide or a guide with expertise accompanying you, you can enjoy hiking with peace of mind while receiving advice on climbing etiquette and route selection, as well as an explanation of the alpine flora. Photo:Hikers on Rishiri Fuji (Mt. Rishiri) Because the weather on Mt. Rishiri can change abruptly, windproof and waterproof jackets, warm innerwear, and a hat/helmet to protect your head are a must. In addition, non-slip hiking shoes are recommended for a safe ascent. The huts on Mt. Rishiri were built as refuge huts and are not lodging facilities, so they cannot be used for overnight stays and can only be used for napping or in the case of an emergency. As the number of climbers increases year after year, the alpine flora has been damaged by ill-mannered climbers who walk outside of the designated trails, trampling the alpine flora and reducing the size of the colonies. Trails near the summit are so bare that they crumble at the touch of a finger. Because of this, rules have been established on Mt. Rishiri to ensure that each and every climber behaves in a manner that is respectful of the natural environment. Mt. Rishiri Climbing Rules 1. Use portable toilets 2. Use rubber tips on hiking poles (to prevent damage to vegetation) 3. Do not sit or step on the vegetation Please follow these rules and enjoy a safe and enjoyable climb up Mt. Rishiri. The Best Foods on Rishiri Island The Mouthwatering Sea Urchin of Rishiri Island Photo:Rishiri Island sea urchin, Hokkaido Rishiri Island is known not only for its tourist attractions and spectacular natural scenery, but also for its mouthwatering seafood. The smooth texture and unique flavor of the locally caught sea urchin is to die for! It's a treat for any foody traveling to Japan! Sea urchin caught locally in Rishirifuji is one of the most highly regarded gastronomic delicacies in all of Japan thanks to the depth of its flavor. Its sweet and rich flavor are truly unforgettable. After you've tried it, you'll be craving a second helping. What makes the sea urchin of Rishiri Island so exquisite you ask? The reason for this is that the waters around Rishiri Island are rich in nutrients caused by the collision of warm and cold currents. In addition, the sea urchins grow on high-grade Rishiri Kombu kelp, which is rich in nutrients from the undersea spring water flowing from Mt. Rishiri. Approximately 40% of all domestic sea urchins in Japan are caught in Hokkaido. Rishiri Island is home to two species of sea urchin, called "nona" and "ganze," and sea urchin fishing is regulated to maintain the population. Photo:Left: ganze sea urchin, Right: nona sea urchin The opening of the season for the sea urchins differs, with the opening of the season for ganze sea urchins being June 1 and the opening of the season for nona sea urchins being on June 10. Both are in season until the end of August and have a mellow flavor. Nona sea urchins have short spines on the outside and are dark orange inside. They are much rarer and more valuable than ganze sea urchins because of their rich and delicious flavor and sweetness. On the other hand, the ganze sea urchin has long, purplish spines, is larger than the nona sea urchin, and is characterized by its elegant sweetness. Photo:Ganze and nona sea urchin bowl In Rishirifuji, you can enjoy sea urchin bowls with either one of the two types of sea urchin, or a combined seafood bowl where you can compare their flavor. Sea urchin is made with the food additive "alum" (ミョウバン, "myouban" in Japanese) to keep it clean longer, but it causes bitterness and spoils the original taste of the sea urchin. Therefore, please try to find sea urchin that does not contain alum. From 26:51 in the video, you can see the woman traveling to Rishiri Island eating two kinds of fresh sea urchin. Photo:Rishirifuji Sea Urchin Festival, Rishiri Island, Hokkaido Rishirifuji also hosts an annual event in which the sea urchin plays a leading role. The Rishirifuji Sea Urchin Festival (うにうにフェスティバル) is held every year on August 11 at the Rishirifuji Community Center parking lot. Photo:Grilled nona sea urchin, Rishiri Island, Hokkaido At the food and beverage corner, you can find grilled sea urchin, sea urchin bowls, sea urchin soup, and fresh scallops and octopus caught in Rishiri. The Sea Urchin Cracking Contest (ウニむき大会) for elementary school students and the Sea Urchin Speed-eating Contest (ウニの早食い大会) are just a few of the local events that make for a day full of sea urchin fun. Kamui Kaigan Park also organizes a sea urchin fishing experience (video 24:30). You can crack open the sea urchin you've caught yourself and enjoy them as fresh as they come! For those residing in Japan, Rishiri Island's sea urchin is also a Furusato Nozei (Hometown Tax) tax return gift, so you can enjoy fresh sea urchin from Rishiri Island anywhere in Japan by utilizing this system. Rishiri Island, a Treasure Trove of Seafood Delicacies In addition to sea urchin, Rishiri Island also offers a variety of must-try seafood delicacies that you don't want to miss! If you're a seafood lover, be sure to try scallops, mackerel, Hokkai Shrimp, Rishiri Kombu kelp, and more. Photo:Butter baked scallops From 37:37 in the video, you can see some of the delicious seafood dishes at an izakaya. Popular Souvenirs on Rishiri Island If you're looking to commemorate your trip to Rishiri Island, there are a number of souvenirs you can purchase to do so. You can find various souvenirs made from Rishiri Kombu, a famous, dried kelp made locally on Rishiri Island. Here, we'll introduce some popular souvenirs made using Rishiri Kombu. Rishiri Kombu Soy Sauce This soy sauce is made using the famous Rishiri Kombu. It has a deep flavor and brings out the best in the ingredients it's paired with. Rishiri Kombu Ramen This popular ramen, which has even been featured on tv, has noodles kneaded with Rishiri Kombu and an exquisite, flavorful broth. In addition, there are many other souvenirs, such as cup soup, kombu sake, and authentic shochu (a distilled Japanese liquor) with which you can enjoy the delicious flavors of Rishiri. Souvenirs can be purchased at the stores in the ferry terminal of Oshidomari Port. Be sure to keep an eye out for them! Photo:Various souvenirs using Rishiri Kombu, Rishiri Island, Hokkaido How to Get to Rishiri Island Rishiri Island can be accessed by air or ferry. Here is how you can get to Rishiri Island. How to Get to Rishiri Island by Airplane There are two routes to Rishiri Island by plane. Both flights are once-a-day, round trip flights and are approximately 50 minutes long. ◎ New Chitose Airport → Rishiri Airport: Approximately 50 min. ◎ Sapporo Okadama Airport → Rishiri Airport: Approximately 50 min. Please note that flights from New Chitose Airport are only available during the summer season (June to September). Photo:Rishiri Airport, Rishiri Island, Hokkaido How to Get to Rishiri Island by Ferry To get to Rishiri Island via ferry, it's a 1 hour and 40-to-50-minute ride from Wakkanai (Wakkanai Ferry Terminal) to Oshidomari Ferry Terminal on Rishiri Island. Fares vary by seat when using the ferry. [2nd Class Cabin] 2,770 yen - Carpeted open space [1st Class Island View Seat] 5,400 yen - All windows have a view of the ocean and you can enjoy views of both Mt. Rishiri and Rebun Island. [Special Rooms] 20,000 yen - Small private rooms for families and groups. In addition, there are kids' rooms and a baby room collaborating with Pokémon, the first of its kind in the ferry industry, equipped with diaper changing sheets, so that passengers with small children can enjoy the cruise with peace of mind. ※Fees current as of June 2023. Since this is a ferry, cars, motorcycles, bicycles, etc. can be transported as well, so you can visit Rishiri Island and travel around as you please. Please check the Heart Land Ferry official website for information regarding fares, rates, timetables, etc. Inside Oshidomari Ferry Terminal, there is a tourist information center, souvenir shops, and restaurants open for lunch where you can enjoy the flavors of Rishiri Island, including fresh sea urchin bowls and Rishiri ramen, so be sure to drop in and grab a bite to eat here. Photo:Wakkanai Ferry Terminal - Oshidomari Ferry Terminal, Heartland Ferry An Unforgettable Travel Experience Awaits You on Rishiri Island! When traveling to Rishiri Island, a place full of attractions, we recommend a course that will take you around the entire island. In addition to renting a bicycle, you can also rent mopeds and cars, or utilize buses and taxis. Rishirifuji also offers a variety of lodging facilities, including hotels, minshuku (Japanese-style bed and breakfasts), and campgrounds, so you can choose the one that best fits your travel style and budget. Don't forget to utilize the hot springs to relax after a long day of traveling as well! A trip to Rishiri Island guarantees an unforgettable adventure with delicious seafood and beautiful natural scenery. At the end of the video at 43:19, we can see the words of the woman, and the captions read: I'll come visit you again... My favorite place... Rishiri Island A trip to Rishiri Island will no doubt leave you feeling the same. The spectacular natural scenery, fresh seafood, and the hospitality of the local people make each and every encounter on Rishiri Island a deep and irreplaceable experience. We invite you to leave behind the hustle and bustle of the city and travel to northern Japan for a chance to experience the wealth that is Rishiri Island. Photo:A ferry send off at Oshidomari Ferry Terminal We hope you enjoyed this Rishiri Island Travel guide! 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Video article 4:32
Ubara Beach in Katsuura City, Chiba Prefecture, with its white torii gate, is as clear as Okinawa! Drone footage of surfers is also available.
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Video introduction of "Ubara Beach" in Katsuura City, Chiba Prefecture This video, titled "Katsuura [Ubara Beach Surfing] Aerial Drone Footage in 4K" (勝浦「 鵜原海岸サーフィン」ドローン空撮 4K Drone Japan Surf), was uploaded by "7Sky Creative – Drone Boy" (ドローン男子 7sky creative). Ubara Beach is located in Katsuura, Chiba, in Japan's Kanto Region, and is part of Minami-Boso Quasi-National Park. The water at Ubara Beach is so clear that it has been called "the Okinawa of Kanto." With its rias coastline, Ubara Beach is a sightseeing spot where visitors can enjoy not only swimming in shallow waters, but also hiking courses and other outdoor activities. Be sure to check out the video showing aerial footage of Ubara Beach and surfing, taken via drone. Ubara Beach – A Slice of Okinawa in Chiba! Photo:Ubara Beach, Chiba Prefecture Ubara Beach in Katsuura, Chiba, is characterized by its clear waters and beautiful, pristine sandy beaches, and has been selected as one of the Top 100 Beaches in Japan. In summer, a beach is opened in the center of the sandy beach facing Ubara Bay, attracting many people. In addition to swimming and playing on the beach, the area is also known for marine activities, such as snorkeling and surfing. The Ubara Coast, which includes the Ubara Beach, is also known as a fishing spot, where you can catch fish, such as Japanese whiting, Japanese halibut, and Japanese black porgy. The beach is well equipped with beach houses, changing rooms, toilets, and other facilities, and is a popular destination for families in the summer. Please note that jellyfish are present during the Obon season (Aug. 13 - Aug. 15), so please be careful when swimming in the sea. The White Torii Gate of Ubara Beach – The Perfect Photo Spot Photo:The white torii gate at Ubara Beach, Chiba Prefecture The white torii gate that stands on the Ubara Beach belongs to Yasaka Shrine, and is a tourist attraction that attracts many visitors to the area. The reason for its popularity is that, unlike the vermillion torii gates at most shrines, this torii gate is pure white. The beautiful contrast between the blue seas and skies and the white torii gate attracts many instagrammers and photographers. Also on the Ubara Coast, the "Ubara Daimyo Gyoretsu" is held every year on the fourth Saturday in July. This is a spectacular procession of daimyo that is celebrated along with "Ohamaori," a festival in which a portable shrine leaving Yasaka Shrine makes its way to the white torii gate. The procession parades through the town of Ubara and along Ubara beach for several hours with loud chanting. You can see the white tower in the video. [Video] 2:56 - The White Torii Gate of Yasaka Shrine Other Popular Beaches in Katsuura, Chiba Photo:Moriya Beach, Chiba Prefecture In addition to Ubara Beach, there are other attractive beaches in Katsuura as well. Below are two such beaches. [Moriya Beach] Moriya Beach, like Ubara Beach, is located in Minami-Boso National Park, with beautiful scenery, including reefs and sandy beaches, and has also been selected as one of the Top 100 Beaches in Japan by the Ministry of the Environment. Watashima Island is a small island located 170 meters offshore, and is a distinctive feature of the beach. [Okitsu Beach] This beach faces Okitsu Port, and is known for its calm waves that allow for swimming. It has been selected as one of the "100 Best Beaches for Swimming" by the Ministry of the Environment, and is a popular beach for families. Summary of Ubara Beach, Chiba If you still haven't seen the video showing Ubara Beach be sure to check it out! It's a popular tourist spot for families as well as anglers, surfers, and people who enjoy marine sports. If you're planning on visiting, be sure to check the weather and wave reports in advance so you can enjoy swimming, surfing, and other marine sports to the fullest. Ubara Beach is just a 5-minute walk from Ubara Station via the JR Sotobo Line, and has a parking lot that can accommodate 300 cars. If you're planning to stay overnight during your sightseeing trip to Katsuura, Chiba, you can stay at a guest house or hotel near Ubara Beach, or if you want to enjoy some barbecue, you can use an auto-camping site. Bottle rockets are prohibited on the beach, but hand-held fireworks are allowed, so feel free to bring your own fireworks if you're staying overnight. Make some summer memories at Ubara Beach this summer in Chiba! 【TripAdvisor】Ubara Beach https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g1021249-d2241695-Reviews-Ubara_Beach-Katsuura_Chiba_Prefecture_Kanto.html -
Video article 3:13
110% Fun at Hirakata Park! Winter Illuminations, Summer Swimming Pools, and More! Discover All of the Seasonal Events and Attractions at This Amusement Park in Osaka!
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Hirakata Park, Osaka: Video introduction This video, titled "[Hirakata Park Official Video Clip] Fun Hirakata Park for Children and Adults All Year Round" (【ひらかたパーク公式】 子どもから大人まで一年中楽しいひらパー), was uploaded by "hirakatapark." The video is a brief three-minute intro to Hirakata Park in Osaka. It shows seasonal spots and attractions popular on social media as well, such as cherry blossoms, roses, and illuminations. Check out the video to see everything there is to do at Hirakata Park. Hirakata Park: An Introduction to the Oldest Amusement Park in Japan Photo:Hirakata Park, an amusement park in Hirakata, Osaka Hirakata Park is an amusement park located in Hirakata, Osaka. The park is approximately 40 acres, allowing guests to enjoy many attractions and plenty of facilities all year round, including swimming pools in the summer and an ice-skating rink in the winter. Unique events are held in every season, and people of all ages, from small children to adults, can enjoy their time here. Opened in 1910, the park has been open for more than 100 years: it has a longer history than any amusement parks in Japan and one of the representative theme parks in the Kansai area. Although Hanayashiki in Asukusa, Tokyo technically has a longer history, it was destroyed once in WWII, making Hirakata Park the oldest amusement park in Japan without interruption. Junichi Okada, a member of V6, a popular Japanese idol group, has been appointed as the poster child of Hirakata Park. The Japanese movie Hard Days, featuring Junichi Okada, commemorates the 10th anniversary since his appointment as such. More Than 40 Attractions at Hirakata Park! Photo:The Ferris wheel at Hirakata Park, Hirakata, Osaka Hirakata Park features a wide range of rides that both children and adults can enjoy, including thrill rides. It has many attractions that small children and their parents can enjoy together, such as the classic teacup-shaped Strawberry Cafe, Magical Jumping, and Dolphin Paradise. It also has attractions that adults can enjoy. Red Falcon, with a top speed of 70 km/h, is one ride that will satisfy even the most die-hard thrill seekers. ELF is a unique wooden roller coaster that is popular for its classic wooden roller coaster feel. People of any age taller than 3 ft 7 in tall can ride it. Those looking for an even more thrilling experience can try METEO, which drops from a height of around 165 feet! It also has indoor attractions and covered rides, so you can enjoy the park even on rainy days. Its one-day pass, Free Pass as they call, may be a good deal to ride various attractions. A "free pass" that includes admission to Hirakata Park and unlimited access to attractions costs 4,800 yen for adults, 4,000 yen for elementary school students, and 2,800 yen for children from 2 years old to preschool age. Purchase online or with Lawson Ticket for a discount. For details, please check the official website. Enjoy a Hot Summer Day at the Pools at Hirakata Park Photo:A child playing in a pool The Boon is its swimming pool where both children and adults can enjoy a huge lazy river pool and kids pool. The swimming pools are especially fun for children on their summer vacation who are full of energy. Kiddie Slider, Crying Tube, and Canyon Ride are fast and powerful tube slides. You can bring in a dome-shaped pop-up tent of 2m x 2m or less to the poolside, but it will be crowded during summer vacation, so you'll need to get a spot early in the morning. [Video] 0:46 - Nagisa Pool and the Lazy River Pool In the summer, you can leave the pool area in your swimsuit and ride other attractions as well. Please check the official website for pool fees. Autumn and Winter Events at Hirakata Park: Halloween, Illuminations, and More! Photo:An illumination at Hirakata Park, Hirakata, Osaka During autumn, Hirakata Park is dyed in Halloween colors with pumpkins and ghosts displayed throughout the park. Autumn roses are also in full bloom during this season, so be sure to stop by the Rose Garden. In the winter, Hirakata Park is home to an ice-skating rink called Winter Carnival. It has three areas, including the main rink, sub rink, and baby rink. you can choose the rink you want to skate at according to your age and ice-skating skills. Another winter event is the Amusement Park of Lights, an illumination event that transforms Hirakata Park into a magical world. Different illuminations and music are played in each area, and you can also enjoy night attractions. Be sure to take a photo in front of the Christmas tree to commemorate your trip to the park! [Video] 2:28 - Illuminations at Hirakata Park Other Things to Do at Hirakata Park – Petting Zoos, Athletic Parks, Barbecues & More! Photo:A prairie dog at Wonder Garden, Hirakata Park Hirakata Park has two animal areas. The outdoor Wonder Garden is a great place to stop by while having fun at the amusement park. At the indoor Wakuwaku Zoo, you can feed cute animals. You can feed popular red pandas for a limited time on certain days as well, so be sure to check the schedule in advance. [Video] 1:35 - Wonder Garden Active elementary school children can also enjoy the educational adventure "Athletic 'try-it,'" which has two courses, normal and challenging. Preschool children can also take part in the adventure, so long as they are accompanied by an adult! The self-service barbecue areas can be reserved online, making it easy to prepare and clean up. Consider trying it with your family during spring break or summer vacation. How to Get to Hirakata Park There are several ways to get to Hirakata Park depending on where you're coming from, but below we'll introduce how to get to Hirakata Park from Osaka Station and from Kyoto Station. Hirakata Park From Osaka Station (Total time: ~40 minutes) To get to Hirakata Pak from Osaka Station, first, take the Osaka Loop Line to Kyobashi Station (~7 mins). From Kyobashi Station, take the Keihan Main Line to Hirakata-Koen Station (~19 mins). From Hirakata-Koen Station it's an approximately 10-minute walk. Hirakata Park From Kyoto Station (Total time: ~45 minutes) To get to Hirakata Park from Kyoto Station, take the Kintetsu- Kyoto Line to Kintetsu Tambabashi Station (~11 mins), and then from Tambabashi Station, take the Keihan Main Line to Hirakata-Koen Station (~20 mins), and then walk to Hirakata Park (~10 mins). Summary of Hirakata Park Photo:The rose garden at Hirakata Park, Hirakata, Osaka At Hirakata Park, where many seasonal events are held, you can feel the spirit of the season from the flowers that decorate the park. If you ride the Red Falcon when the cherry blossoms are in bloom, you can ride through a row of cherry trees. The 300 cherry trees planted in the park are also well worth seeing. [Video] 0:10 - Red Falcon Riding Through Cherry Blossoms The park has 4,000 roses of 600 different varieties in its rose garden, which is beautiful from any angle. In the spring and autumn, visitors are delighted by the colorfully blooming roses. [Video] 0:28 - The Beautiful Rose Garden Hirakata Park is a theme park loved by people in the Kansai region, where everyone from children to adults can enjoy themselves. If you're visit Osaka on vacation, be sure to stop by Hirakata Park. Children on their spring or summer vacation are sure to have a blast! ◆Hirakata Park◆ 【Address】1-1 Hirakata Koenmachi, Hirakata, Osaka 【Hours】10:00 am -5:00 pm 【Admission Fee/Tickets】Adults (junior high school students and older): $11.15 USD, Children (Ages 2 through elementary school): $6.27 USD. Prices correct as of 6/27/2023. ※Please not that prices are subject to change, so please check the official website for up to date information. 【Nearest Station】Hirakata Park Station, Keihan Railway 【Official Website】Hirakata Park 【TripAdvisor】Hirakata Park -
Video article 3:05
The Omuroyama Yamayaki (burning of Mt. Omuro) in Ito City, Shizuoka Prefecture, is a traditional event that heralds the spring season!
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Video Introduction of "Omuroyama Yamayaki" in Ito City, Shizuoka Prefecture This video, titled "2018 4K Mt. Omuro Mountain Burning" (2018 4K大室山・山焼き), was uploaded by "ATELIER ROCKY KALEIDOSCOPES GALLERY." The Mt. Omuro Mountain Burning is an exciting event where an entire mountain is engulfed in flames. The Mt. Omuro Mountain Burning, the symbol of Ito, Shizuoka, is not only a popular tourist attraction, but also a traditional winter event that heralds the arrival of spring in Izu. Please take a look at the aerial footage of showing the magnificent Mt. Omuro Mountain Burning via drone. Mt. Omuro and the Popular Anime Movie 'Your Name' Photo:Mt. Omuro, Ito, Shizuoka Mt.Omuro is a dormant volcano sitting at an elevation of 580m in Ito, Shizuoka, in Japan's Tokai region. At the top of the mountain is a 300-meter-wide, mortar-shaped crater left over from an eruption 4,000 years ago. Because of its unique shape, the mountain attracted a lot of attention among fans of the move Your Name, who speculated that it might have been the model for the mountain in Itomori, where Taki and Mitsuba, the main characters in the movie, met. Mt. Omuro Sengen Shrine is located halfway up the crater and is dedicated to the god of easy childbirth and matchmaking, and enshrines the Five Dhyani Buddhas. The entirety of Mt. Omuro is known as a power spot. Mt. Omuro is a popular tourist spot for climbers. For environmental conservation, climbers use the Mt. Omuro lift to climb to the top of the mountain. There is also a popular tour where you can walk around the mortar-shaped mountaintop while enjoying the spectacular view. You can also enjoy archery and delicious food on the summit as well, and there are also steamed buns with cherry blossom leaves being sold there, as well as a variety of other local specialties and souvenirs. Mt. Omuro is not only famous for its mountain burning, but is also known for its cherry blossoms in spring and foliage in autumn, so you can enjoy the beauty of Japan's four seasons year-round. Why Is Mt. Omuro Burned? The History of the Fiery Tradition Photo:Mt. Omuro mountain burning, Ito, Shizuoka The origin of the Mt. Omuro Mountain Burning dates back approximately 700 years. Initially, it was done for the purpose of improving the growth of high-quality thatch, which was essential for people's lives, and for the purpose of pest control. There are 2 types of thatch: Kogaya and Tawaragaya. Kogaya was used for thatched roofs, as fertilizer for growing wheat, and as feed for cows and horses. It is said that Tawaragaya was used to make charcoal bales for packing charcoal, as charcoal production thrived on Mt. Omuro. The Mt. Omuro Mountain Burning has remained as a traditional event throughout its history, thanks to the efforts of the local people. In order to preserve the tradition of the mountain burning as a sightseeing event, as well as to pass on the skills of mountain burning, the local people formed the Mt. Omuro Mountain Burning Preservation Society, which has continued to protect the event to this day while paying close attention to safety. Mt. Omuro Mountain Burning Festival 2023 Schedule Photo:Mt. Omuro mountain burning, Ito, Shizuoka Mt. Omuro Mountain Burning will be held on Sunday, February 12, 2023. Mt. Omuro Mountain Burning is held on the second Sunday in February every year, and will be held with the same schedule this year. However, the Mt. Omuro Mountain Burning may be postponed due to weather conditions on the day of the event for safety and other concerns. For safety reasons, the event is postponed on windy days as well, so please check the official Ito Tourist Association website before visiting for sightseeing purposes. The 2022 festival was postponed until March 13. The fires on Mt. Omuro are lit from 9:30 a.m. at the bowl and from 12:00 p.m. for the rest of the mountain. Since it's expected to be crowded on the day of the event, it's recommended that you get there early. Also, if you want to participate in the lighting of the whole mountain burning with torches, participants are chosen on a first come, first served basis every year. However, no dates, numbers or prices have been announced at this time. If you would like to participate, please check the information in advance. The Best Spots to Watch the Mt. Omuro Mountain Burning! Photo:The Mt. Omuro lift, Ito, Shizuoka Mt. Omuro Mountain Burning is a grand-scale event in which the entire mountain is engulfed in fire, so you can pretty much watch it from anywhere in the area. If you want to experience the flames up close, we recommend going near the Mt. Omuro lift. This is also the place where torches are lit for the all-mountain burning, so you can directly feel the heat and hot air from the burning mountain, making it a powerful spot. If you want to enjoy a panoramic view of the Mt. Omuro Mountain Burning, we recommend Sakura no Sato. The parking lot is nearby, and it's only moderately crowded, so it's suitable for those who want to see the whole mountain. Also, if you have children with you, they may get bored while waiting for the mountain burning. In such a case, we recommend visiting Izu Shaboten Zoo. In the large park, you can enjoy not only the panoramic view of the mountain burning, but also 1,500 kinds of cacti, feeding animals, and petting capybaras. Your kids are sure to have a great time here! Summary of the Mt. Omuro Mountain Burning Mt. Omuro is a symbol of Izu, Ito, and Izu Kogen. From the top of the mountain, you can enjoy a superb view of Mt. Fuji that's great for taking photos. Mt. Omuro Mountain Burning is a spring tradition known as one of the 8 Views of Ito. Ito Onsen is also nearby, so consider stopping by after watching the Mt. Omuro Mountain Burning. We hope you enjoy this traditional event on the Izu Peninsula! 【Official Website】Mt. Omuro 【TripAdvisor】Mt. Omuro -
Video article 4:21
Matsumoto City, Nagano Prefecture Is an Amazing Tourist Destination Overflowing With Nature! Kamikochi and Matsumoto Castle Are Just Two of the Must-See Destinations! A Look at the Culture, History, and Cuisine of Matsumoto City!
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The Popular Tourist Destination, Matsumoto This video, titled “Matsumoto Area Sightseeing Excursion” (松本地域観光周遊プラン動画), is a promotional video for Matsumoto produced by the “Matsumoto Region Union” of Matsumoto City Office. The city of Matsumoto, the second largest city in Nagano Prefecture, in Japan's Koushin'etsu Region, is a former castle town surrounded by the Japanese Alps, with Japan's national treasure Matsumoto Castle at its center. Its population is 240,415 as of June, 2019. Since the city of Matsumoto was unaffected by the allied bombing in WW2, plenty of valuable landmarks and cultural properties still remain in and around the city today. Movies and TV shows are often set in the city; visiting Matsumoto is a must when traveling around Nagano Prefecture. There are quite a few famous tourist spots in Matsumoto that are also featured in the video. As well as the natural landscape, culture, history, cuisine, and so on. Which one caught your eye? Sightseeing and Instagrammable Locations Around Matsumoto Photo:Matsumoto Castle Matsumoto Castle, a national treasure, is undoubtedly the most instagrammable spot around Matsumoto. Matsumoto Castle's towers against a backdrop of nature are shown at 0:15 in the video. Of course, there's much more to see than just the castle; there are a myriad of hidden gems throughout the city where you can enjoy the seasonal scenery of Matsumoto as well. Places rich in nature such as Takabocchi Highlands, Sashikirikyo, and Lake Hijiri are famous for their beautiful scenery. For example, Kiritoshi, a road cut through the hilly terrain, leading to Zenko Temple. There's also the mountainous villages of Asahi, Yamagata, Omi, and Ikusaka that pass on the traditions of good old Japan. Kamikochi (0:29) is a popular resort in the Northern Japan Alps with two million visitors each year; it offers one of the most famous mountain views in the country. You can both go on a hike and try mountain climbing here as well. Kamikochi, a prominent mountain resort, has attracted many foreign visitors in recent years as hiking and mountain trails at the foot of Mt. Yakedake (burning mountain) have been well developed. Photo:Kappa Bridge The hiking trail through a virgin forest, starting from Kappa Bridge to Myojin Bridge around Myojin Pond, is another great way to see the natural scenery, and is very popular. The shiny emerald color of the rivers and ponds is incredibly beautiful. Walter Weston, an English missionary, introduced the Japanese Alps to the world for the first time in the early 1900’s. He is called the father of modern mountain climbing; Weston Monument, a relief to honor his memory, is situated on the gigantic rocks facing Mt. Kasumizawa and Mt. Roppyaku. The Weston Festival is held annually in June. In terms of lodging, there's Kamikochi Onsen Hotel, Kamikochi Imperial Hotel, and Kamikochi Taishoike Hotel. For reservations and pricing, please refer to the official website. These tourist hotspots are shown throughout the video, so be sure to check out what Matsumoto has to offer. The local horse race held in Takabocchi Higlands (1:10) is another popular event. Seeing the race horses running before your eyes is an exhilarating experience. If you go up north a bit, Chikuhoku Village (2:25) will welcome you with Shunara Buddha Stone Statues and Mount Kamurigi, also called Ubasuteyama after an old fable. There are many other tourist spots, such as Kiritoshi, in the area. You can also get a taste of art at the Matsumoto Museum of Art in downtown Matsumoto. The History of Matsumoto Photo:Narai-juku Matsumoto is now a part of central Nagano Prefecture, and one of the most famous places in the city is Kaichi School, the oldest elementary school in Japan. It's often featured in the media, and is registered as an important cultural and historical property. There are many other places to visit in Matsumoto, but if you're looking for a place to walk around, Narai-juku is the best place to visit. Narai, located in the middle of Nakasendo, flourished as a prominent post town. It was once referred to as "Narai of a Thousand Houses." It used be at the highest altitude among all the 11 towns of Kiso; the townscape is registered as an "Important Preservation District of Historic Buildings." Dining in Matsumoto Photo:A Watermill at Azumino Daio Wasabi Farm, Nagano Prefecture The area around Matsumoto is known for its deep mountainous villages and harsh weather, yet these very conditions make it possible for you to enjoy the rustic food of the mountains. The countless local products include Shiojiri Grand Wine, Azumino soba noodles, wasabi from Daio Wasabi Farm, Ikusakarat, premium branded grapes of Ikusaka village, and various highland vegetables which are grown utilizing the high altitude. In addittion, Karasawa Soba Village boasts seven soba restaurants on a single street. You should try Takana-meshi (rice), a leading local specialty of Nagano. Takana (mustard leaf) is very popular as a souvenir as well. Furthermore, the Shinshu Region, where Matsumoto is located, is the second largest apple producer in the country ranked second only after Aomori Prefecture. The smell of sweet apples fills the orchards of Misato in the fall. The video shows ripe apples at 1:48. There are 14 major streets in the downtown area around Matsumoto Station. Nakamachi and Nawate Street provide you with a plethora of cafes, sweets parlors, and ramen restaurants; you can pick any of them for lunch or enjoy several as you eat your way through the area. Summary of Matsumoto, Nagano There are numerous fun-filled sightseeing spots around the city where you can take in the magnificent scenery and sweeping views. We can’t cover all the attractions here, but the video, “Matsumoto Area Sightseeing Excursion,” shows everything you need to know about the beautiful city. Once you see the images yourself, you'll be packing your bags in no time! Come check out Matsumoto- It'll be an experience you won't soon forget! -
Video article 3:18
Outstanding Views of Flowers and Nature in Biei and Furano, Hokkaido. The Scenic View of Lavenders and Poppies, Together With the Natural Scenery of the Surrounding Area, Will Make Your Trip Unforgettable!
Local PR Travel Nature- 470 plays
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Biei and Furano, Hokkaido The video this time is a 4K video introducing the beautiful scenery of Biei and Furano in Hokkaido. Biei and Furano are one of the most popular tourist spots in Japan. Let’s take a look at the colorful flower fields in Biei and Furano! This article will talk about tourist information in the Hokkaido area. Please enjoy the video showcasing the natural scenery and colorful flower fields of Hokkaido! The Flower Field of Farm Tomita in Furano, Hokkaido Photo:Farm Tomita flower field “Farm Tomita” is one of the most popular flower fields in Japan with more than 100 years of history. At the farm, the beautiful rainbow colored flower fields with lavenders, poppies, soaproots, Sweet William Catchflys, and Californian poppys awaits you. The field will make you think that you've actually come to rainbow. Be sure to check it out in the first half of the video! Enjoy the Natural Scenery of Biei and Furano in Hokkaido We recommend visiting Saika no Sato if you're visiting Furano. In addition to the magnificent 15 acre lavender field, there are also colorful flower fields of lupine and sunflowers around the area, which offer impressive scenery. You can also pet some animals at the alpaca farm. Sightseeing in Biei and Furano in Hokkaido Photo:Shirogane Blue Pond After visiting the flower fields, make your way to the top of Furano Nishidake. Using the Furano gondola will take you to the top of the 4,400 ft. tall mountain. From here, you can enjoy a full 360° view of Furano and the natural scenery of the area. Shirogane Blue Pond is a spiritual spot in Biei. Shirogane Blue Pond was actually made by accident as a by-product of attempts to control mudslides. Aluminium that seeped into the water scatters the sunlight causing the pond to appear blue. As you can see in the video, the natural scenery surrounding Furano and Biei, with the glorious rivers and mountain paths, make it a popular location for nature loving travelers. Gourmet Food in Biei and Furano, Hokkaido Photo:Melon Souvenirs we recommend from Furano include Furano Melon (Honey dew), Furano curry, and ice cream that can be purchased from Furano Marche. Summary of Biei, Furano in Hokkaido One of the reasons Furano is such a popular tourist destination is because it's the perfect place to visit during summer when you're trying to avoid the extremely hot weather. Because Hokkaido is such a large island, we recommend planning ahead and using the available transportation wisely. Be sure to check out locations such as the flower fields and Shirogane Blue Pond introduced in the video. These spots are also great for taking Instagram photos! You won't forget the beautiful views and breathtaking natural scenery of Furano! 【Tripadvisor】Furano https://www.tripadvisor.com/Tourism-g674811-Furano_Hokkaido-Vacations.html -
Video article 2:08
The Thousands of Years Old Wilson Stump on Kagoshima Prefecture's Yakushima Island Is One of Japan's Most Famous Power Spots, and Also a World Natural Heritage Site! Journey Inside the Stump That Once Towered Over the Island!
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Yakushima, Kagoshima- A Popular Tourist Destination This video, titled "YAKUSHIMA WONDERLAND"(【HD】屋久島ワンダーランド _ YAKUSHIMA WONDERLAND), was created by “happydayztag,” and it introduces you to the beautiful scenery of Yakushima. The video shows you scenes of an ancient Jomon Cedar standing in a mystic forest, sea turtles, and other wildlife living in Yakushima. Enjoy the dynamic nature view of Yakushima! Yakushima is an island located at the southernmost tip of Kyushu island. The island contains more than 90% forest. Yakushima is designated as a National Natural Monument, Special Natural Monument, as well as the first place to become a designated UNESCO World Heritage site. In 2012, Yakushima park was registered as a national park. Yakushima is a subtropical forest that contains waterfalls, a clear ocean, a moss covered forest, local wildlife, ancient Jomon cedars, and more. It's a place that many Japanese and international visitors long to visit. Sightseeing at Yakushima, Kagoshima Photo:Wilson’s Stump Yakushima island has a lot of rain throughout the year. The video contains footage of mystic cedars in the fog, the blue ocean and water falls in Yakushima. If you'd like to enjoy the nature of Yakushima, we recommend hiking or trekking. Yakushima's trekking tour is quite popular. In the middle of the old railway line that connects the logging village to the coastal village, sits Wilson’s Stump, the remains of a giant cedar tree that toppled over roughly 400 years ago. If you look up inside Wilson’s Stump, you can see a heart shape, making it a very popular place for taking photos. You can also see the heart of Wilson's Stump at 0:57. Photo:Jomon Cedar The ancient Jomon Cedar is the the symbol of Yakushima. It is estimated to be around 2170 to 2700 years old and is the largest cedar in Yakushima. The trip to visit the Jomon cedar takes about 5 hours of hiking. Seeing the mystic cedar after the long hike is a truly rewarding experience. You can see the dynamic view of the Jomon cedar at 1:07 in the video. Trails are available and well maintained for hikers. Mt. Nagatadake and Mt. Miyanoura, the highest peak on Yakushima, are two more popular spots and are both made of granite. You can check out this beautiful view at 1:55. Other Tourist Spots in Yakushima, Kagoshima ©Kagoshima prefecture Modifying Another must-see sight in Yakushima is Shiratani Unsuikyo, a fantastic mossy forest filled with water that glistens and is said to have been the inspiration for the famous Japanese animated film, Princess Mononoke. The water overflowing from the mountains creates magnificent waterfalls, such as the Okonotaki and Senpiro Falls, which flow out to the sea. You can see this at 0:25 in the video. A short hike around Yakusugi Land is an ideal route as you can see the spectacular road into the interior of the island. Yaku Shrine is a masterpiece swallowed by nature. Yakushima lighthouse is located at the westernmost tip of Yakushima. "Hirauchi Onsen" is available only for 2 hours between high tide and low tide, but we definitely recommend checking it out if you have the chance. The Yakushima Environmental Culture Village Center is a museum you can visit to learn more about the history and nature of Yakushima. In early summer, sea turtles come to the beaches in Yakushima to lay eggs. You might be able to see local deer and monkeys on the Seibu Rindo Forest Path as well. The dense forests of Yakushima cover 95.5% of the island. There are wild Yakuzaru monkeys as well as Yakushika deer, and the chances of seeing them are high. You'll see these natural animals throughout the video too, so be sure to check it out! Summary of Yakushima, Kagoshima Photo:Fried flying fish There are 2 ways to access to Yakushima: either by a plane or by ship. Direct flights are available from Osaka (Itami), Fukuoka, and Kagoshima. There are many hotels, ryokan, onsen facilities, pensions, and guest houses are available. If you plan to visit the Jomon cedar, you'll need to stay at least one night at Yakushima. Try some fresh seafood dishes at Yakushima, such as deep fried flying fish and mackerels. As you can see in the video, there's a lot of natural scenery left in Kagoshima prefecture. Be sure to check out the video to see how fascinating Yakushima is! Are you packing your bags yet? 【Official Website】Yakushima, Kagoshima Town http://www.town.yakushima.kagoshima.jp/en/ 【Tripadvisor】Yakushima https://www.tripadvisor.com/Tourism-g3211144-Yakushima_Yakushima_cho_Kumage_gun_Kagoshima_Prefecture_Kyushu-Vacations.html -
Video article 3:55
Full of power! Full of thrills! Jigoku-nozoki (peering into hell) at "Mt. Sawtooth Mountain" in Awa-gun, Chiba Prefecture is absolutely thrilling! Recommended Hiking & Climbing Spots and Sightseeing around Mt.
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Video introduction of "Mt. Sawtooth" in Kyonan-cho, Awa-gun, Chiba Prefecture What is Mount Nokogiri (鋸山, Nokogiriyama)? The video is an introduction to Mt. Nokogiri entitled [“Breathtaking views at Nokogiri mountain known as saw-tooth mountain” Promotion movie【2017】], directed by Chiba Prefectural Government. Mount Nokogiri, sitting on the border between Kyonan Town (鋸南町, Kyonanmachi) and Futtsu City (富津市, Futtsushi) in Chiba Prefecture, gets its name from its saw-like spiky ridgelines. A breathtaking panorama opens itself up to you from the 329m-high peak. Photo: Mt. Sawtooth Mountain If you’re lucky with weather, you can enjoy Mt. Fuji (富士山, Fujisan), Mt. Amagi (天城山, Amagiyama) and Oshima (大島, Oshima) on the Pacific in a single sight. Especially, the nearby Three Great Mountains of Awa (安房三名山, Awasanmeizan), Mt. Fuji, Mt. Gotemba (御殿場山, Gotembasan), Mt. Iyo (伊予ヶ岳, Iyogatake), are a sight to behold. Immerse yourself in the pre-experience of hiking & mountaineering by watching the video! Enjoy the Beautiful Scenery of Mt. Nokogiri through Hiking & Mountaineering/h2> The main attraction of Mt. Nokogiri is hiking & mountaineering. Mt. Nokogiri Nihon Temple (鋸山日本寺, Nokogiriyamanihonji), located on Mt. Nokogiri, is the oldest imperial temple in Kanto, founded through an order given by the emperor about 1,300 years ago. Within its vast realm, one of its routes contains various tourist attractions such as the biggest stone-made Buddha in Japan, Sengohyaku Rakan, and the “View of Hell”. A low mountain of just 329m, you can casually enjoy hiking & mountaineering with a route that takes you to the peak within a couple of hours.Some routes are unpaved, and it is recommended that you climb with exercise clothes and suitable hiking shoes on. Mt. Nokogiri is a part of “Kanto Fureai-no-Michi”, a long natural hiking-course passing through the 7 Prefectures in Kanto. The course is 1,799km long in total, and lets you indulge in the beauty of nature around Kanto, connecting Mt. Takao (高尾山, Takaosan), Okutama, Chichibu, Mt. Tsukuba (筑波山, Tsukubasan), Kujukuri Beach (九十九里浜, Kujukurihama), Boso, Miura Peninsula (三浦半島, Miurahanto) and Tanzawa. Source :YouTube screenshot A spot you cannot miss in Mt. Nokogiri is Hyakushaku-Kannon (Buddha), the guardian of traffic safety. The Kannon, 30.3m high, was carved out of the stone over 6 years. You can watch this from 1:16 in the video. Sengohyaku Rakan is the most prominent sacred place dedicated to Rakan in the world, replete with Buddha sculptures carved by the most eminent sculptors of the Edo period. You can watch this from 0:56 in the video. No single pair of 1,500 sculptures share the same facial expression. In the Buddha plaza, sits the tallest Buddha in Japan towering at the height of 31.05m. He welcomes numerous visitors with his 6.5m face and 608 hair spirals. Photo: Sawasan Peak Observatory The main attraction of the course is the Peak Observatory. The observatory is on the outcropped rock sticking out of the cliff and is known as the “View of Hell”. Be brave enough to peek down from this thrilling observatory. The video introduces this from 1:52. The video alone gives you the impact. The mountain is also popular for watching sunsets and sunrises. Ropeway Route Makes Mt. Nokogiri Accessible for All! Ropeway provides a good alternative to cars to reach the peak. Why not enjoy a relaxing 4-minute voyage in a coach with amazing scenery? The video introduces the view from the ropeway from 0:18. Take home the beauty of a myriad of colorful autumn leaves with you. Summary of Mt. Nokogiri A series of work entitled ‘Fuji Sanjurokkei’ by Hiroshige Utagawa, a Ukiyoe artist developed during the Edo period, depicts the mountain lively with the title ‘Awa Nokogiriyama’. This suggests that Mt. Nokogiri was a sacred property of local belief from ancient times. Kyonan, Futtsu, and Fuppo area in which Mt. Nokogiri sits is known as a port city along the Tokyo Bay, and restaurants provide cuisines with fresh fish. Mt. Nokogiri not only is a site of beautiful landscape, it is an indispensable tourist attraction in Chiba where you can enjoy its history, art, local cuisine and hot spring. The video introduces many of the tourist attractions along the hiking course of Mt. Nokogiri including information on photogenic sights perfect for your Instagram. Enjoy! -
Video article 1:52
Hachijojima, Hachijo-cho, Tokyo, is an island with a spectacular view where you can enjoy a tropical mood! Enjoy the beautiful nature of the Izu Islands with morning market food, fishing and diving! Hachijo-jima Island was a sightseeing spot full of attractions!
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Hachijo-cho, Tokyo, Izu Islands, "Hachijojima" Video Introduction This video, titled "Hachijojima - The Other Side of Tokyo : 80Days Travel," is an introductory video on the scenery of Hachijo-jima (Hachijo Island), an island in the Izu Islands of Tokyo. The video was produced by “TokyoStreetView - Japan The Beautiful.” Most people think of Okinawa when it comes to tropical resorts in Japan, but there's a sightseeing destination in Tokyo where you can enjoy that same tropical resort atmosphere. In this article, we'll introduce Hachijo-jima, a resort near the city, as well as some sight seeing information about the area. The video shows some of the amazing scenery of Hachijo-jima, located in the Izu Islands. Can you believe this place is part of Tokyo? Hachijo-Jima: An Island Rich in Nature, Created by an Active Volcano Photo:Hachijo-jima The Izu Islands are located at the southern end of Tokyo and connected to the Pacific Ocean. They consist of about 100 different islands of all different sizes. Among the Izu islands, Hachijo-jima is especially popular as a sightseeing destination, thanks to its beautiful natural scenery and subtropical climate. Izu Islands' Hachijo-jima is the second largest inhabited island among the "Izu Seven." Hachijo-jima’s Nishiyama, also called “Hachijo Fuji,” is an active volcano but the volcanic activity has settled down since the Edo Period (1603-1868). The beautiful natural scenery that the volcano created is definitely worth checking out. Sightseeing on Hachijo-Jima! Source :YouTube screenshot There are many travelers who visit Hachijo-jima to enjoy swimming, fishing, and diving. At 0:24 in the video, scenes of sea turtles swimming elegantly in the beautifully clear sea are shown. Thanks to that subtropical climate we mentioned earlier, you can enjoy diving year round at Hachijo-jima. If you want to enjoy some marine activities, we recommend checking out the crystal clear waters of Sokodo Beach! The beautiful, natural scenery is popular among travelers for taking Instagram photos. Recommended Sightseeing Locations on Hachijo-Jima Source :YouTube screenshot Hachijo-jima's untouched tropical forests allow you to enjoy walking around sightseeing, while taking in the island's history. After hiking, it's time for a dip at some hidden hot springs! Miharashi no Yu and Ashiyu Kirameki, are two places you can relax and rid yourself of fatigue while taking in the ocean views. The footbath, Ashiyu Kirameki, can be seen at 1:07 in the video. When visiting Hachijo-jima, you've got to try the local specialty "Shima Sushi." The Hachijo Morning Market is held on the third Saturday every month. We recommend matching up your schedule with some of the events on the Island if possible. Summary of Izu Islands' Hachijo-Jima Hachijo-jima can be accessed by ferry or airplane. There is a regular ferry service from Tokyo that makes one round-trip per day, and the journey is approximately 11 hours long. If you use the airplane from Haneda airport to Hachijo-jima airport, you can get to Hachijo-jima in just 45 minutes. Hachijo-jima is a beautiful island where you can enjoy a wonderful time away from the hustle and bustle of the city, in the midst of nature. We hope we've piqued your interest in visiting Hachijo-jima! 【Tripadvisor】Hachijo-jima https://www.tripadvisor.com/Tourism-g1122052-Hachijo_jima_Hachijo_machi_Tokyo_Prefecture_Kanto-Vacations.html -
Video article 5:04
Seijun Nishihata - Professional Plant Hunter and CEO of the Sora Botanical Garden Project
Celebrities Life & Business Nature- 121 plays
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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/ -
Video article 2:12
Tokamachi City in Niigata Prefecture is a great sightseeing spot where you can experience the great outdoors in a natural setting! Which activity would you like to experience, skiing, SUP, rafting, etc.?
Local PR Things to Do Nature- 66 plays
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Outdoor Sightseeing Video Introduction of Tokamachi City, Niigata Prefecture This is a video to promote outdoor tourism in Tokamachi, a city located in the southern part of Niigata prefecture. Here, we will introduce you to some of the nature-rich sightseeing spots in the Shinanogawa area of Niigata Prefecture. The video introduces a variety of outdoor activities in various spots and seasons, including rivers, plateaus, and snowy mountains. There's sure to be something for everyone! Outdoor Locations in Tokamachi, Niigata Photo:glamping If you want to go camping in Tokamachi city, we recommend the beautiful Daigonji Kogen Camping Ground or the Fushikurojoseki Camping Ground. You can see the scenery at each campground at 0:29 in the video. Besides that, there are also facilities where you can enjoy the popular activity "glamping" around Tokamachi. There are various outdoor activities to enjoy in Tokamachi city, such as cycling along the Shinanogawa river, SUP (Stand Up Paddle Boarding) at the Shinanogawa river, canoeing, and rafting down the amazing Shinanogawa river. These can be seen at 0:39 in the footage. Known as one of the areas of Japan that has extremely heavy snowfall, there are many famous tourist spots where you can enjoy winter activities in Tokamachi city. It's been designated a special heavy snowfall area, so you know the snow will be great! You can also try cross-country skiing in the scenery of the great outdoors, or airboarding and snow biking at the Matsunoyama Onsen Ski Resort. These winter activities are shown from 1:24 in the video. Appealing Tourist Spots in Tokamachi City ©Koichi_Hayakawa Modifying In addition to Chotokuji Temple, which is famous for Senju Kannon (the thousand-armed Goddess of Mercy), the stone Buddha of Hachi, where approximately 200 stone Buddhas are enshrined, Suwa Shrine and Matsuo Shrine, Saieiji Temple, and Jinguji Temple, a nationally renowned sight and national monument, and Tashiro no Nanatsugama, are all must-see tourist spots that show the history of Tokamachi city. You can also visit the ruins of Oida Castle, which was home to a local wealthy family during the Kamakura period. At the Tokamachi Museum, you can see the flame-shaped earthenware that was found in the area. Kiyotsu Gorge, the Hoshitoge rice terrace fields, and the beech forest, given the name Bijinbayashi, are all secret tourist spots overflowing with natural beauty. The Art Festival of the Earth - Echigo-Tsumari Art Triennial, one of the world's largest art festivals, attracts many visitors as well. When you visit Tokamachi city of Niigata prefecture, be sure to try the local cuisine. The Kashiwazaki Tai Chazuke (sea bream rice with tea), Soba inari, and Hegi soba are famous local specialties. Traditions of Tokamachi City In Tokamachi, Shinbo Kodaiji Bushi, which is said to be the root of Japanese folk music, has been passed down since ancient times. Akakura Kagura, which has been passed down from one generation to the next in Akakura Village, is a Shinto ritual within which you can feel the traditions of Japan. Tokamachi Kouta, which was made for the commercial of the traditional "Akashi Chijimi," is performed at the Tokamachi Summer Festival. In the city, the Tokamachi Snow Festival is held in the winter season and it's always a lively event. There are places where you can experience making Tsumariyaki, a traditional craft of Tokamachi, using soil from the area. Tokamachi city is also the second largest producer of silk fabrics after Kyoto, and is even called “Kimono town” for having many kimono and fabric shops. Accommodations in and Around Tokamachi If you're traveling to Tokamachi, we recommend staying at Hikari no Yakata, a hotel built by James Turrell in the image of Junichiro Tanizaki’s book “In the Praise of Shadows.” There are also many appealing hot spring inns in the city, so choose the one that suits you best. Summary of Tokamachi, Niigata Source :YouTube screenshot In this article, we introduced the outdoor activities in Tokamachi, Niigata Prefecture as well as tourist attractions and traditional performing arts that are featured in the video. We hope you enjoyed reading about some of the attractions of Tokamachi, as it has a lot to offer. As you can see in the video, Tokamachi city, where the magnificent Shinanogawa river flows, is a great place to visit for those looking to actively experience nature. This video introduces many outdoor activities, such as skiing and SUP. Find anything you're interested in? It might be difficult deciding what to do when there's so many options! 【Official Website】Tokamachi, Niigata Prefecture Town Hall Website http://www.city.tokamachi.lg.jp/english/index.html -
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Reihoku, Kumamoto- Where Christianity Was Introduced to Japan More Than 450 Years Ago. Introducing Tourist Spots, Gourmet Food, and the Nature of Reihoku, Amakusa, Kumamoto!
Local PR Travel Nature- 65 plays
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Reihoku, Amakusa, Kyushu This video is a promotional video for Reihoku, Amakusa in Kumamoto, Kyushu titled "reihoku," created by "Reihoku Town Hall." The video introduces the many attractive places and magnificent nature of Reihoku, Amakusa, Kumamoto. Reihoku is the perfect place to visit if you like the ocean. Check out Tomioka castle and Tomioka visiter center if you're looking for a tasteful sightseeing tour. The video shows the many different tourist spots dotted around Reihoku. Let's take a look! Amakusa, Kumamoto - A UNESCO World Heritage Site Photo:Sakizu Church The Amakusa area in Kumamoto, Kyushu was registered as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2018. The World Heritage Site "Hidden Christian Sites in the Nagasaki Region" is where you can feel the history and culture of Japanese Christianity. It has been about 450 years since Christianity was introduced to Japan. Visit the different churches and experience Japan's culture of Christianity. At 1:39 in the video, you can see a statue of the Virgin Mary on a cliff. It's very beautiful even if you don't follow Christianity. Ocean Views in Reihoku, Kumamoto Photo:Yatsushiro Sea You can go on a cruise where you can see dolphins from Tomioka port. You'll be fascinated to see all the different beautiful ocean views that the cruise offers. There are other popular spots such as Tomioka beach, Shikizaki cape, and Oppai rock (Lit. "Breast Rock") in Amakusa ocean. We recommend the Reihoku steam ship for sightseeing. It's only a 45-minute ride between Amakusa and Nagasaki. Try the popular tour of Reihoku Thermal Power Plant that takes place on the day the power plant was opened. Check the video at 1:05 to see the rock cruising. There are so many photo locations for Instagram! Gourmet Food in Reihoku, Amakusa Photo:Nagasaki chanpon noodles Fresh sea food is a must in Reihoku, Amakusa. Try the freshly caught fish and oysters from Reihoku! Amakusa area is also famous for cabbage. At 2:42 in the video, all of the gourmet foods are introduced. Which one are you thinking about trying? Nagasaki chanpon noodles are another must-eat food since Amakusa is close to Nagasaki. Fill your belly with all the delicious Amakusa cuisine. The Cultivation of pearls is also famous in Amakusa. You can even purchase them as souvenirs! Summary of Reihoku, Amakusa, Kumamoto As you can see in the video, Reihoku is a small, yet beautiful town surrounded by beautiful nature. If you're planning to visit Amakusa, try to reserve a hotel next to the ocean. It'll be an unforgettable trip. 【Official Website】Reihoku town office in Amakusa, Kumamoto https://reihoku-kumamoto.jp/ 【Tripadvisor】Reihoku, Amakusa, Kumamoto Tourist https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attractions-g1121557-Activities-Reihoku_machi_Amakusa_gun_Kumamoto_Prefecture_Kyushu.html