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Video article 7:07
Cape Kiritappu - Enjoy a View of Cute Otters Playing in Hokkaido! Observe the Wildlife of Japan at This Popular Sightseeing Location!
Living Things- 1.92K plays
- YouTube
Video Introduction This video, titled "Cape Kiritappu, Hokkaido|Wild Sea Otters Floating in the Sea|2020" (北海道霧多布岬 ぷかぷか浮かぶ 野生のラッコ 2020), was uploaded by "Shinji kawamura." The video captures endangered sea otters playfully swimming and relaxing at Cape Kiritappu, a place where you can encounter otters, foxes, and other wildlife of Japan. It's a great place for taking Instagram photos as well, so be sure to check it out. Don't forget to follow along with the video! Sea Otters – An Endangered Species on the Decline in Japan Photo:A raft of sea otters The main habitat of wild sea otters is the area from the California coast through Alaska and the Aleutian Islands to the coast of the Kamchatka Peninsula. Overfishing has led to a decline in the wild population, and it's estimated that more than 3,000 sea otters perished when an oil tanker ran aground in Alaska. Although the number of sea otters in the wild temporarily declined to less than 2,000, active conservation efforts have helped the population recover to more than 100,000. On the other hand, the number of sea otters kept in aquariums in Japan has continued to decline from 122 in 1994, and by 2021 there will be only 4 in Japan. Sea otters, which are designated as an endangered species, are prohibited from being imported from outside of Japan. Currently, because of declining reproductive capabilities and aging populations, further breeding of sea otters kept in Japan becoming more and more difficult. Because of this, it's not unlikely that there will come a day when sea otters can no longer be seen in aquariums in Japan. Where to See Sea Otters in the Wild in Japan Photo:Cape Kiritappu, Hokkaido There was a time when wild sea otters were no longer seen in the waters around Japan due to overfishing, but since 1980, there has been a string of sightings along the eastern coast of Hokkaido. In recent years, wild sea otters have been seen in Japan mainly in three areas along the eastern coast of Hokkaido. One is Cape Kiritappu, which is introduced in the video, and the others are Cape Nosappu in Nemuro, which is located on the northeast side of the cape, and Moyururi Island, an uninhabited island off the Kombumori fishing port between Cape Kiritappu and Cape Nosappu. Breeding has been confirmed on both Cape Kiritappu and Moyururi Island. Of these three locations, the highest probability of observing wild sea otters from land is at Cape Kiritappu. The sight of wild sea otters, both parents and offspring, floating in the sea, is both funny and cute. [Video] 0:19 - Wild Sea Otters Swimming With Their Offspring in Their Arms Sea Otters at Cape Kiritappu - The Best Times and Where to See Them Photo:An otter Wild sea otters can be seen throughout the year around Cape Kiritappu. However, your chances are low during bad weather, such as fog or high waves. It's said that the chance of seeing sea otters on a clear day is only a 1 in 3 chance, so weather is also an important factor. The best place to see them is where the waves are most calm. The probability of seeing them is higher on the north side of the cape and around reefs. If you're lucky, you can see wild sea otters up close, but we recommend bringing a telescope or binoculars in order to clearly see their appearance, behavior, and facial expressions. You can check out the sea otters napping and eating in the video. [Video] 1:50 - Sea Otters Relaxing and Taking Naps [Video] 4:28 - Sea Otters Eating Shellfish off Their Stomachs Summary of Otters at Cape Kiritappu The number of sea otters kept in aquariums has drastically decreased due to difficulties in breeding in Japan. Wild sea otters, on the other hand, a species that once vanished due to overhunting, can now be seen in the waters around Japan. The eastern coast of Hokkaido, where sightings are particularly common, is now quite popular. Cape Kiritappu is a popular spot to see rare wild sea otters from land. If you happen to see them during a visit to the area, consider yourself lucky! 【TripAdvisor】Cape Kiritappu https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g1120924-d1553698-Reviews-Kiritappu_Cape-Hamanaka_cho_Akkeshi_gun_Hokkaido.html -
Video article 6:37
The Small, Cute Japanese Badger! A Look at Their Ecology and Habits!
Living Things- 2.73K plays
- YouTube
A Look at the Japanese Badger This video, titled "[Japan's Wildlife] the Ecology of Badgers|A Cute Animal That Looks Like a Bear but Isn't (Japanese Badger)" (【日本の動物】アナグマの生態〜クマのようで熊ではない可愛い動物〜(Japanese badger)), introduces the Japanese badger. Japanese badgers look like bears, but as you'll see in the video, they are actually quite different. Let's take a look at Japan's native badger species! About the Japanese Badger Photo:Japanese badgers Japanese badgers belong to the family Mustelidae and order Carnivora. The scientific name of the Japanese badger is "Meles anakuma." The Japanese badger is 40 to 60 centimeters in length and weighs about 12 kilograms. They're light brown in color, similar to that of bears. A characteristic of the Japanese badger is their sharp claws. Japanese badgers are nocturnal and omnivorous animals and live in units called "clans." When the temperature drops below 10 degrees Celsius, they enter hibernation. They inhabit forests in Honshu (本州), Shikoku (四国), and Kyushu (九州). The average lifespan for a wild Japanese badger is 10 years. In the video you can see two cute Japanese badgers playing, running around, and taking naps. Japanese Badgers - Viewed as Pests Photo:A badger walking on snow Japanese badgers have warm personalities and do not scare easily. Unfortunately, because they often feed on the crops of farmers, they are seen as pests. Some restaurants in Fukuoka, Kagoshima, and Kyoto actually serve badger meat as game dishes. The Diverse Wildlife Found in Japan Photo:Japanese weasel There are other animals similar to the Japanese badger, such as the raccoon dog (tanuki), masked palm civet, raccoon, and the Japanese weasel. There's a Japanese proverb that goes "Onaji ana no Mujina" (同じ穴の狢), which, translated to English, goes "Badgers of the same hole." It basically expresses that while seemingly unrelated, these animals are of the same type. It's similar to "birds of a feather" or "villains of the same stripe." Breeding Japanese Badgers? Source :YouTube screenshot Japanese badgers are quite friendly. Even when people come close to it, it sometimes moves closer to them, albeit with their tail between their legs like a cat. However, if they are provoked, they may threaten other animals with fierce warning calls. They are not prohibited from being kept as pets, but it's a bit difficult to actually keep them, as you won't be able to bring them to an ordinary vet if something happens. Summary of Japanese Badgers In this article we gave a quick overview of the Japanese badger. Recently, Japanese badgers have been featured on news broadcasts as they've been seen coming down to towns for food, due to increasing deforestation. We'll have to do our part to preserve the forests so that humans and animals can coexist. -
Video article 2:02
Capybaras Relaxing in Hot Springs at Saitama Children's Zoo
Living Things- 2.59K plays
- YouTube
Adorable Capybaras Enjoying the Hot Springs! Capybaras are the largest members of the rodent family, and the video 「みんなで入浴 カピバラ温泉~桶風呂~始めました! 2017.12.5(埼玉県こども動物自然公園 公式/SaitamaChildrensZoo official )capybara onsen』, created by 「埼玉県こども動物自然公園(SaitamaChildrensZoo)」compiles scenes of capybaras enjoying bathing in the hot springs. These scenes of six capybaras considerately entering the hot springs together will warm your heart. The video has also become popular, not only among the Japanese, but also with people from overseas. The Capybaras Introduced in the Video, and Why They’re in the Hot Springs Photo:Capybaras Capybaras are members of the rodent family, and can be found from Panama in South America, all the way to Northeast Argentina. With calm and gentle personalities, capybaras are also popular as pets, and are the largest members of the rodent family, growing up to 106 to 134 centimeters. Males weigh around 77 to 141 pounds, while females weigh around 81 to 145 kilograms. Being proficient swimmers, capybaras tend to escape to the water once they sense approaching danger. They can remain underwater for up to 5 minutes. Although the water is their shelter and haven, due to their warm natural habitat, capybaras are weak to the cold. As a countermeasure to combat cold winters, the “Capybara Hot Springs” was created. The Capybara Hot Springs and the Saitama Children's Zoo Source :YouTube screenshot The Saitama Children's Zoo holds a “Capybara Hot Springs” event every year. The event lasts from November through March, with the location being at the Capybara/Wallaby enclosure. Pools built to look like rock baths are filled with water warmed to a suitable temperature by the sun. Besides the unique springs such as the yuzu bath, a waterfall bath and tub bath are also prepared. The video begins with five capybaras heading towards the hot springs. Of the five, three enter the bath with floating yuzu, one makes for the smaller tub bath, and the last heads for the waterfall bath. Without any jostling or competition for space, the atmosphere is calm and peaceful. From 1:22 in the video, another capybara appears. The scene of this capybara unobtrusively lowering itself backside-first into the yuzu bath is extremely heartwarming. From 1:43 in the video, the capybara in the waterfall bath can be seen wiping its face, and from 1:53 is seen staring peacefully into space, contently settling into the water. The fact that these capybaras act just like little humans will bring a smile to your face. In the Saitama Children's Zoo, you can enjoy viewing the capybaras while warming your feet in the foot baths. Why not stop by and enjoy the relaxing hot springs together with the capybaras? Saitama Children's Zoo Photo:Saitama Children's Zoo Saitama Children's Zoo is a spacious park located in Saitama Prefecture, Higashi-Matsuyama City in Japan's Kanto region (関東地方・埼玉県東松山市, Kanto-chiho・Saitama-ken Higashi-matsuyama-shi). Besides the zoo, the park also boasts the "Children’s Castle" (こどもの城, Kodomo no jo) as well as a large playground (みんなの広場, Minna no hiroba) where children can run around and play. In the playground is the “Adventure Forest Athletics” area (冒険の森アスレチック, Bouken-no-mori asurechikku) as well as the “Shabu-shabu Pond” (じゃぶじゃぶ池, Shabu-shabu ike) with water activites. Here, children can enjoy playing and being active. In the animal area, pony-riding as well as animal-feeding activities are available. Also, from September of 2019, the “Small Animals Enclosure” (ecoハウチュー, eco hauchu) was opened. There, you can observe small animals such as hedgehogs. Where to Enjoy Japan's Capybara Hot Springs Photo:Capybara hot springs, Kobe Animal Kingdom Below is a list of some of the capybara hot spring areas throughout Japan. With so many facilities available, you're sure to be able to enjoy the capybara hot springs! Hokkaido ・Banya no Yu (番屋の湯) [Ishikari, Hokkaido] ・North Safari Sapporo (ノースサファリサッポロ) [Sapporo, Hokkaido] Tohoku/Kanto Regions ・Akita Omoriyama Zoo (秋田市大森山動物園) [Akita Prefecture] ・Nasu Animal Kingdom (那須どうぶつ王国) [Tochigi Prefecture] ・Kusatsu Tropical Wonderland (草津熱帯園) [Gunma Prefecture] ・Aloha Garden Tateyama (アロハガーデンたてやま) [Chiba Prefecture] ・Mother Farm (マザー牧場) [Chiba Prefecture] ・Yokosuka Soleil Hill (長井海の手公園ソレイユの丘) [Kanagawa Prefecture] Chubu Region ・Ishikawa Zoo (いしかわ動物園) [Ishikawa Prefecture] ・Asuwayama Amusement Park (足羽山公園遊園地) [Fukui Prefecture] ・Suzaka Zoo (須坂市動物園) [Nagano Prefecture] ・Izu Shaboten Zoo (伊豆シャボテン動物公園) [Shizuoka Prefecture] ・Toyohashi Zoo and Botanical Park (豊橋総合動植物公園 のんほいパーク) [Aichi Prefecture] Kansai/Chugoku Regions ・Kobe Animal Kingdom (神戸どうぶつ王国) [Hyogo Prefecture] ・Himeji Central Park (姫路セントラルパーク) [Hyogo Prefecture] ・Daisen Tom Sawyer Pasture (大山トム・ソーヤ牧場) [Tottori Prefecture] ・Ikeda Zoo (池田動物園) [Okayama Prefecture] Shikoku/Kyushu Region ・New Reoma World (レオマリゾート) [Kagawa Prefecture] ・Tobe Zoo (愛媛県立とべ動物園) [Ehime Prefecture] ・Nagasaki Bio Park (長崎バイオパーク) [Nagasaki Prefecture] ・Aso Farm Land (阿蘇ファームランド) [Kumamoto Prefecture] ・Hirakawa Zoo (平川動物公園) [Kagoshima Prefecture] Summary of the Capybara Hot Springs Video The video introduced in this article shows capybaras enjoying a nice soak in the hot springs of the Saitama Children's Zoo. Definitely take a second to relax by watching this video of capybaras relaxing in the hot springs. 【Tripadvisor】Saitama Children's Zoo https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g1021372-d1425140-Reviews-Saitama_Children_Zoo-Higashimatsuyama_Saitama_Prefecture_Kanto.html -
Video article 2:26
Cute Capybaras Enjoying Hot Springs With Fruit on Their Heads at Izu Shaboten Zoo!
Living Things Things to Do Travel- 3.05K plays
- YouTube
Introducing the Open-Air Capybara Bath of the Izu Shaboten Zoo This video, titled "Capybara with mandarin orange on head in the open-air bath☆みかんを頭にのせるカピバラ 伊豆シャボテン動物公園【元祖カピバラの露天風呂】," was released by "HIRO@sea." The video shows capybaras enjoying a relaxing soak in an open-air bath. The capybaras can be found at the Izu Shaboten Zoo, in Futo, Ito City, Shizuoka Prefecture in Japan's Tokai Region. Just like humans, the capybara enjoy a warm bath. The water is filled with yuzu, a type of citrus fruit. You can see the capybara with a yuzu on its head at 1:46 in the video! In this article, we'll introduce the Izu Shaboten Zoo and its open-air capybara bath. The Izu Shaboten Zoo Photo:Izu Shaboten Zoo The Izu Shaboten Zoo is a theme park in Futo, Ito City, Shizuoka. The Zoo is known for animals and cacti. The zoo was opened around 60 years ago, in October of 1959. The 200,000-square-meter park, which opened around 60 years ago in October 1959, has a greenhouse with cacti and succulents from all over the world. There's also kangaroos, capybaras, anteaters, squirrel monkeys, red pandas, chimpanzees, ponies, wild birds, the ever-popular motionless bobwhite stork, and a variety of other animals. The zoo is home to around 800 animals and birds, including flamingos, peacocks, and fennec foxes. The cacti are divided into five sections: the South American Pavilion, the African Pavilion, the Madagascar Pavilion, the Mexico Pavilion, and the Forest Cactus Pavilion. There are edible cacti available for tasting as well. In 2016, the official Japanese name of the zoo was changed from the former "Izu Shaboten Park" (伊豆シャボテン公園) to the current "Izu Shaboten Zoological Park" (伊豆シャボテン動物公園). A little to the east of Izu Shaboten Zoo, there's Izu Granpal Park, Izu Kogen Tabi no Eki Granpal Port, New York Lamp Museum & Flower Garden, and the Izu Oceanic Park Diving Center as part of the Izu Shaboten Zoological Park Group. Izu Shaboten Animal Park also has life-size replicas of a sculpture of ancient American civilization, and the entire Izu Shaboten Zoological Park Group has a wide range of attractions, from animals and plants to artifacts, park golf, the "Ship-shaped 3D Maze KAiZOKU," "Zip Line 風KAZE," "Water Balloons," and more. There's also "Wan Wan Park," a dog run where you can enjoy taking your dog, and the "Izu Kogen Grand Illumination," a hands-on style illumination. Nearby, the official hotels "Izu Shaboten Village" and "Izu Shaboten Village GLAMPING" can be found. You can fully enjoy your Izu Shaboten experience with an overnight stay at either one of these locations. The Open Air Capybara Bath Photo:Open-air capybara bath Firstly, what exactly are capybaras? Capybaras are members of the caviidae family of rodents, native to South America. They can be found from Panama to the northeast of Argentina. They are large (106-134 centimeters in length), have a gentle nature and are known to be very friendly towards humans. They tend to be found in groups of 10 to 20. A group of capybaras can be seen soaking in the bath together from 0:07 in the video. The open-air capybara bath shown in the video has been a tradition of the Izu Shaboten Zoo since 1982. At that time, the zookeepers were washing the exhibit with warm water when the capybaras began to soak in the puddles. Thereafter, the zookeepers came up with the idea of preparing warm baths for the capybaras. Now, the capybara bath has become a winter tradition. Nowadays, many zoos in Japan have introduced their own capybara baths, but the originator is none other than the Izu Shaboten Zoo. The zoo even has a capybara mascot known as "Capyba." Summary of the Izu Shaboten Zoo Source :【Official Website】Izu Shaboten Zoo Due to the coronavirus pandemic in 2020, to uphold social distancing rules, capybara and red panda plush toys are placed between seats at the zoo as well as the restaurant "Forest Animal Restaurant GIBBONTEI." The adorable image of the plush toys seated in the restaurant has generated buzz online, and has even been shown on the news. The plush toy and calendar can be purchased at the gift shop within the zoo. Many goods are also available on the official online shop "IZU SHABOTEN HONPO," so do take a look! Take a moment to relax and check out this heartwarming video. ◆Izu Shaboten Zoo Facilities Overview◆ 【Address】1317-13 Tomido, Itou City, Shizuoka Prefecture 【Access】From JR Atami Station, get off at JR Ito Station on the Ito Line, and take the Tokai Bus for Shaboten Zoo (~35 minutes). 【Admission Fee】Adults: 2,400 yen Elementary School Students: 1,200 yen Children (over the age of 4): 400 yen Discounts for groups, seniors, and persons with disabilities, as well as coupon deals, are also available. 【Hours】9:00-17:00 【Closures】None 【Avg. Time Spent Here】2+ Hours 【Parking】400 regular spaces, 500 yen|Buses: 18 spaces, 1,000 yen 【Official Website】Izu Shaboten Zoo https://izushaboten.com/lang/index.html 【Tripadvisor】Izu Shaboten Zoo https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g298123-d1196864-Reviews-Izu_Shaboten_Zoo-Ito_Shizuoka_Prefecture_Tokai_Chubu.html -
Video article 0:40
A Mysterious Giant Salamander Has Suddenly Appeared in Kyoto's Kamo River! Introducing the Living Fossil That Has Remained Unchanged Since Ancient Times and Is Designated as a Protected Species!
Living Things- 3.85K plays
- YouTube
The Giant Salamander of Kyoto's Kamo River! This is a video of the Giant Salamander, a protected species, that appeared in Kyoto's Kamo River. The giant salamander is the world’s largest amphibian. The characteristics of giant salamanders is their large body, which is approximately 150cm (~5 ft.) long. Giant salamanders have not changed in form since ancient times, and as such, they are referred to as "living fossils." What Are Giant Salamanders? Photo:Giant salamander Japanese Giant Salamanders belong to the animalia kingdom, chordata phylum, and amphibia class. They are also referred to as "Hanzaki" in Japanese. It is an endemic species living in the south western part of Japan. The mucus giant salamanders secrete on their skin smells like Japanese pepper (Sansho), so they are called "Sansho Uo" in Japanese. Chinese giant salamanders are very similar to Japanese giant salamanders. There's not much difference between Japanese giant salamanders and Chinese giant salamanders, and it is difficult to identify them based on appearance. In China, there is a theory that earthquakes occurs when giant salamanders appear. Are There Many Giant Salamanders Living in Kyoto's Kamo River? Photo:Kyoto As you can see in the video, giant salamanders are often seen in Kyoto's Kamo River basin. However, according to genetic research in the Kyoto area, the native species are extinct and the ones currently living in the city are likely to be non-native, hybrids, or a new species. In Kyoto, heavy rains and typhoons often cause the Kamo River to flood. After it rains, you can find salamanders that were washed downstream from Kumogahata village. The video begins with a giant salamander, over 1 meter in length, walking slowly along the path. It stops moving after 0:07, but you can see it slowly raising its head a couple of times. Giant Salamanders at the Kyoto Aquarium! Photo:Giant salamander At Kyoto Aquarium, there is a special display area of giant salamanders, and if you're lucky, you may even hear their low guttural call. You can also buy stuffed giant salamanders at the aquarium's souvenir shop. At the aquarium, more research is being done on giant salamanders. According to studies, the average life expectancy of a Giant Salamander is 80 years, but some live more than 200 years. Summary of the Giant Salamander at Kamo River Source :YouTube screenshot Many of you may have been surprised by the sheer size of the salamander in the video. There are many reports of salamander sightings along the Kamo River, so it's a good place to stop by when sightseeing in Kyoto. You can also visit the Kyoto Aquarium to learn more about the biology of the Japanese giant salamander. 【Official Website】Kyoto Aquarium- A short walk from Umekoji-Kyotonishi Station https://www.kyoto-aquarium.com/ -
Video article 4:58
Observe Kuroiwa's Ground Gecko - A Protected Species of Lizard on the Verge of Extinction in the Mountains of Okinawa, Japan...
Living Things- 598 plays
- YouTube
More About Kuroiwa's Ground Gecko- A Protected Species in Japan The video featured this time is called "It looks like a lizard but it's not?!" It was created by "Toranosuke's Creature Movies" and it shows a close up look at the Kuroiwa gecko, a protected species. Kuroiwa's ground gecko, also known as the Okinawan ground gecko, is a member of the Eublepharinae family (トカゲモドキ科, tokagemodokika) of geckos. These geckos belong to the order Squamata, suborder Sauria, infraorder Gekkota, family Eublepharinae and genus Goniurosaurus (爬虫類有鱗目トカゲ亜目ヤモリ下目トカゲモドキ科トカゲモドキ属, hachuurui yuurinmoku tokageamoku yamorikamoku tokagemodokika), as do the common leopard geckos (レオパードゲッコー, reopaadogekko) who are often kept as pets. The Eublepharinae family of geckos is a group of primitive geckos endemic to the island of Tokunoshima (徳之島) in Kagoshima prefecture (鹿児島県, kagoshimaken). They differ from other geckos in that they have eyelids, allowing them to close their eyes. Due to their underdeveloped feet, they cannot climb walls as well as other geckos. As with other geckos, if they lose their tail it can grow back again. An adult gecko is roughly 15-18cm in length, weighs roughly 7-17g and spawns in the warmer months from May to August. They usually lay 2 eggs at a time, in one month intervals. In this video, you will have the rare opportunity to observe Kuroiwa's ground geckos in the wild. Did you know such a cute creature inhabited Japan? Please take the time to enjoy our video! Japan's Effort to Protect This Endangered Species Photo:Kuroiwa ground gecko Kuroiwa's ground geckos live deep in the mountains and can’t be seen in Naha (那覇) or other big cities in Okinawa. Due to deforestation and loss of habitat, the number of Kuroiwa ground geckos has decreased in recent years. Kuroiwa's ground geckos are carnivorous, feeding on mainly insects and ground worms. Due to their nocturnal nature, you can't spot them during the daylight hours. They are often referred to as Jihab or Ashihab by Okinawan people, and in the past they were wrongly believed to be poisonous. The Kuroiwa ground geckos found in southern Okinawa (in the area surrounding Naha Airport) have a straight line pattern down their back, whereas the geckos found in northern Okinawa (in the mountainous regions) have slightly different markings. You can see this distinct straight line pattern clearly at 0:58 and 4:34 in the video. There are also subspecies of the Kuroiwa ground gecko found in Okinawa, each with their own unique and interesting markings. Due to their collectability as pets, in the past they were poached and sold at a high price by foreigners. In Japan they are designated as a protected species and therefore hunting and breeding of them is prohibited by law. Preventing the Overhunting of Japan's Protected Species According to the Washington Convention's rules regarding business transactions of wild animals, the illegal hunting of protected species is prohibited in Japan. Due to the rules of this treaty, endangered species in Japan are required to be actively protected. Since being designated as a protected species in Japan, two subspecies of Kuroiwa ground geckos: Goniurosaurus kuroiwae sengokui (ケラマトカゲモドキ, keramatokagemodoki) and Goniurosaurus kuroiwae toyamai (イヘヤトカゲモドキ, iheyatokagemodoki), have been added to the critically endangered list of reptiles by the Japanese Ministry for the Environment. However, that isn't the only problem threatening Kuroiwa ground geckos. Non-native species such as mongooses, dogs, cats and the American bullfrog are common predators of Kuroiwa's ground gecko and are contributing to their dwindling numbers. Summary of the Kuroiwa Ground Gecko Source :YouTube screenshot The protected species, Kuroiwa ground gecko, which is often amicably nicknamed the 'living dinosaur,' is a lizard rarely spotted in the wild in Okinawa but can be seen clearly in this video. At 1:48 in the video, you can see their movements in detail as one gecko moves slowly across the forest floor. Please enjoy watching the rare footage of this living fossil! -
Video article 2:43
The Precious Okinawa Rail – A Look at the Awkwardly Adorable Flightless Bird of Kunigami, Okinawa, Registered as a Protected Species!
Living Things- 553 plays
- YouTube
Introducing the Okinawa Rail - A Protected Species in Japan This video, titled “Wild Okinawa rail (Kunigami, Okinawa prefecture) May 11th-12th, 2019(野生の ヤンバルクイナ (沖縄県国頭村) 2019年5月11-12日) introduces the Okinawa rail, a protected species on the Red List of the Ministry of the Environment. The Okinawa rail is also a critically endangered species and a Specified National Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora. They are flightless birds and live only in Okinawa. This video was taken in 2019 on the street in Kunigami, Okinawa prefecture. The bird is an endemic species found only in northern Okinawa prefecture, Kunigami, Ogimison, and Higashison, and is referred to as "Yanbaru." It's a very rare bird, not only in Japan but also around the world. The forest area located in the northern part of Okinawa is called the Yanbaru Forest. Kunigami Village, where wild Okinawa rail (Yanbaru Kuina) appear frequently, is called the Forest of Kuina. There is an Okinawa Rail Ecology Center, and the Yanbaru Kuina observatory is located there. The Ecology of the Okinawa Rail Photo:Okinawa rail The wild Okinawa rail is characterized by the following morphology and characteristics: ・Birds, Order Gruiformes, Family Rallidae, scientific name: Gallirallus okinawae ・Size: approx. 35 cm in length with a weight of 230 gramst ・Wild distribution:The woodlands near Mt. Yonahatake ・Eating habits:Omnivorous ・Nesting:They build nests on the grounds of the forest, and lay about 4 eggs in breeding season. ・They have vestigial wings and are unable to fly, but parent birds have bright red bills and beautifully striped feathers. Chicks have a protective coloring of deep black feathers. ・Their calls are distinctive, and very loud. The Origins of the Name "Yanbaru Kuina," and the History the Okinawa Rail Photo:Okinawa rail The first discovery of the wild Okinawa rail by experts was in 1981, which is actually quite recent. There are various kinds of Rallidae (rails) around the world, but it gained a lot of attention as the first rail species to be discovered in the wild. In Okinawa Prefecture, they were called by different names such as Agachi, Agacha, and Yamadui, depending on the region, and it turned out that they are a species indigenous to the region with a long history. Therefore, they were named Yanbaru Kuina from Yamadui, which means bird of the mountains, using the Kanji "山原"as a phonetic equivalent (pronounced Yanbaru in Okinawa dialect). Other than Yanbaru Kuina, Yanbaru Fumiru and Okinawa Kuina were other possible names. Summary of Very Rare Okinawa Rail Photo:An Okinawa rail crossing sign The Okinawa rail is an endangered species of wild bird that can only be seen in Yanbaru Forest on the main island of Okinawa. Even in Okinawa Prefecture, you cannot see them on remote islands such as Miyako Island. They are a very rare endemic species. The reasons for the decline in the Okinawa rail's population are due to deaths from car accidents and attacks by alien predators such as mongooses, Yellow fever mosquitoes, and stray cats. At 0:10 in the video, an Okinawa rail is seen crossing the road at a brisk pace, raising concerns about traffic accidents. Japan is still an island country with 70% of its land surrounded by forests, and there are many rare wild indigenous species that are only found in Japan, so it is said to be very important for the protection of indigenous species that we do not pollute the natural environment through overexploitation, nor bring dangerous alien species into the country without care. Currently, the Ministry of the Environment is taking the lead in protecting the Okinawa rail, breeding mates, increasing their numbers, and returning them to the wild. However, it is important not only to protect them strictly, but also to make people widely aware of Okinawa rails. In this way there are goods such as stuffed animals sold at roadside stations and airport shops in Okinawa. These awareness raising activities are also part of the important protection policies. -
Video article 8:34
Lovely Wild Birds Help People Feel at Ease! A Video Featuring More Than 30 Species of Wild Birds, Native to Japan. How Many Do You Know?
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The Wild Birds of Japan! This 8 and half minute video titled "The Wild Birds of Japan- Video Compilation 2 (HD)" (日本の野鳥 動画集 2 (HD)), promotes the beautiful wild birds native to Japan. In this video you can see all different types of birds, from common species you might see around town, to rare species that you wouldn't normally get a chance to see. A Glimpse Into the Wild Bird of Japan Source :YouTube screenshot The wild birds shown in this video are as follows . The long-tailed bushtit [from 0:00 ], the great spotted woodpecker [from 0:18 ], the pygmy woodpecker [from 0:35 ], the varied tit [from 0:41 ], the little tern [from 1:01 ], the black-tailed gull [from 1:20 ], the coot [from 1:30 ], the whooper swan [from 1:45 ], the spot-billed duck [from 2:20 ], the Eurasian wigeon [from 2:32 ], the common pochard [from 2:51], the green pheasant [from 3:11], the black kite [from 3:31], the swallow [from 3:46], the little grebe [from 4:06], the white-bellied green pigeon [from 4:23], the Eurasian bullfinch [from 4:48], the reed bunting [from 4:54], the azure-winged magpie [from 5:13], the oriental greenfinch [from 5:24], the narcissus flycatcher [from 5:32], the Japanese white-eye [from 5:53], the great tit [from 6:14], the tree sparrow [from 6:29 ], the pale thrush [ from 7:06], the blue rock-thrush [from 7:12], the great cormorant [from 7:21], the grey heron [from 7:37], the common sandpiper [from 7:45], the large terek sandpiper [from 7:55], the far eastern curlew [from 8:04], and the black-winged stilt [from 8:14]. What Kinds of Wild Birds Are There? Source :YouTube screenshot The wild birds shown in this video are general species. Not just birds that live in the mountains of Japan, but waterfowl and sea birds also fit into this category. The wild birds living all across Japan are migratory birds. Birds that come to Japan in the spring and stay for the summer are called summer birds, and birds that come to Japan in autumn and stay for the winter are called winter birds. Wild birds which stray into Japan because of typhoons called "stray birds". And of course, the birds that stay in one place year round are referred to as non-migratory birds. Find the Wild Birds Shown in This Video! Photo:Dusky thrush Besides the wild birds shown in this video, there are many birds such as crows, chats, bull-headed shrike, and grey starling that inhabit Japan. You can enjoy a nice time bird watching and listening to their singing, or you can take some lovely photos of birds at feeding stations. When you go bird watching, we recommend wearing rain boots. Japan's Wild Birds Wrapped Up As you can see from this video, many wild birds live in Japan. You can find lovely birds not only in mountainous areas but also in towns. There is the "Wild Bird Society" that specifically observes Japan's wild birds. If you're interested in different species of birds or their ecology, you can participate in bird watching with the Wild Bird Society as well! -
Video article 2:24
The Cute Ezo Momonga - Discover the Flying Squirrels of Japan!
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Japan's Flying Squirrels This introductory video, titled "3 Flying Squirrels" (匹のモモンガ), was created by Shinji Kawamura. It captures footage of three flying squirrels. The Ezo momonga (Ezo flying squirrel), native to Hokkaido, Japan (known in Japanese as "Ezo Momonga," scientific name: Pteromys volans orii) are small mammals who are members of the order Rodentia, family Sciuridae, and subfamily Sciurinae and belong to the tribe Pteromyini. The characteristic feature of the flying squirrel is its gliding membrane which allows it to glide distances of 20 to 50 meters. They are nocturnal animals who are very active at night. They tend to live in small groups, and as you can see in this video, these three flying squirrels live in the same tree burrow. They reach about 15cm in length, small enough to fit in the palm of your hand. They are omnivorous animals, feeding on mainly tree leaf buds, flowers, leaves, bark and seeds. At 0:49 in the video, you can see how they grasp the twigs carefully in their tiny hands and nibble away at the buds. The sight of them grasping the branches with their nimble fingers is adorable! See for yourself! Differences Between the Wild Ezo Momonga and Popular Pet Sugar Glider Photo:Ezo flying squirrel Flying squirrels and Sugar Gliders are similar in appearance but they differ in their scientific classification. Flying Squirrels are members of the Rodentia order, and Sciuridae family, whereas Sugar Gliders are members of the Marsupialia order, and Petauridae family. In other words, flying squirrels are rodents similar to squirrels whereas sugar gliders are marsupials, similar to kangaroos and other animals with a pouch used to carry their young. The sugar gliders you find in most pet stores are friendly and used to being around humans, making them easier to care for than flying squirrels. The cost of buying a sugar glider varies depending on the color of its coat, although a typical brown sugar glider usually costs around 20,000 yen. The average life expectancy of a sugar glider is 5 to 7 years and they feed mostly on fruits, nuts and berries. They communicate through various calls; however, they are relatively quiet animals and easy to look after making them popular as pets in recent years. Differences Between Wild Flying Squirrels and the Japanese Giant Flying Squirrel Photo:Japanese giant flying squirrel Flying squirrels and the Japanese Giant flying squirrel are both members of the Rodentia order, and Sciurinae subfamily and belong to the Pteromyini tribe; however, the Japanese Giant flying squirrel also belongs to the Petaurista genus. In the past they were thought to be of the same species. The Japanese Giant flying squirrel has a larger body than a flying squirrel, roughly double the size. Thanks to its size, the Japanese Giant flying squirrel can also glide significantly further, up to a distance of 100 meters. The Flying Squirrels Native to Japan and the Southern Flying Squirrel The wild flying squirrels of Japan are under threat from the Southern flying squirrel. There is concern over the cross-breeding of Southern flying squirrels and wild Japanese flying squirrels. Southern flying squirrels are an invasive species and the importation of such species is prohibited in order to prevent any damage to the ecosystem of the Japanese flying squirrels. Summary of Japan's Flying Squirrels Source :YouTube screenshot How did you find the video? We hope it helps you understand the difference between the Ezo Momonga and other small, similar-looking mammals. This video gives you a great view of the white, fluffy-coated Ezo Momonga as it plays in the tree tops. I think the footage at 1:06 of them slipping into their tiny tree burrow will bring a smile to your face! Enjoy taking a close look at the wonderful Ezo Momonga, an animal that, because of its small size, is hard to catch a glimpse of in nature! -
Video article 3:16
The Yamane (Japanese Dormouse) – A Look at One of Japan's Cutest Protected Species Running Around and Playing!
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The Japanese Dormouse This video, titled "Chino Legacy - A Chino Legacy to Leave to the Future - #16 'Japanese Dormouse'" (茅野レガシー~未来に残したい茅野遺産~#16「ヤマネ」), introduces the cute Japanese dormouse, an endemic species of Japan designated a nationally protected species. The Japanese dormouse is a rodent found in Yatsugatake, which straddle Yamanashi and Nagano prefectures, as well as in low mountains and subalpine areas throughout Japan. During hibernation, the Japanese dormouse crawls into private warehouses and cottages to curl up and take shelter. so there is a possibility of encountering them unexpectedly. About the Japanese Dormouse Source :YouTube screenshot The Japanese dormouse is a small mammal that belongs to the order Rodentia along with squirrels and other rodents, and is of the family Gliridae, and Glirinae genus. As you can see from 0:10 in the video, it has a cute appearance with its round eyes and soft fur. Because it's designated as a nationally protected species, it is forbidden to catch them or keep them as pets. They are 6 to 8 centimeters long, with black vertical stripes along their backs and a bushy tail. They are omnivorous, feeding on insects and fruits. They are often found running around the forest in preparation for winter. As you can see from 1:19 in the video, they nest in tree trunks and cracks in rocks and can race up trees using their sharp claws. It is a very agile animal that can hang on thin branches and jump from branch to branch. They are nocturnal creatures that live in trees, so you won’t encounter them often; however, during winter, you may see them curled up on the ground hibernating. They are also called "Ball Mice" or "Ice Mice" based on their curled up appearance. A hibernating Japanese dormouse sleeps so peacefully that even if you rolled them around, they would not wake up. You can see a curled-up Japanese dormouse hibernating at 2:07 in the video. In spring, they return to their natural habitat in the mountains. The Japanese Dormouse - A "Living Fossil" Photo:Excavating fossils Fossils of Japanese dormice have been excavated from the strata of Europe and Japan from 50 million and 20 million years ago, respectively. In other words, it is believed that the Japanese dormouse has existed on Earth since about 50 million years ago, after the extinction of the dinosaurs. This would have been during the Cenozoic Era, a time when ammonites and marine reptiles became extinct, and mammals and birds prospered. This of course means that they existed long before humans came to be. Because the Japanese dormouse has not changed in ecology or form since these ancient times, it is referred to as a living fossil. After the advent of mankind, the Japanese dormouse was recorded as a delicacy eaten by noblemen in Roman times. They would put Japanese dormice in vases and fatten them up with nuts and then cook them. They were eaten on a daily basis as appetizers or desserts. The Japanese Dormouse as a Pet Photo:Japanese Dormouse Due to the Japanese dormouse being designated as a nationally protected species, it is not allowed to have them as pets in Japan. However, you will see types of dormice from Europe or Asia in pet shops. When keeping them as pets, having a nesting box, drinking water, bedding materials, and a running wheel should suffice. When they begin hibernation, they sleep for half of the year, earning them the name "Sleeping Mice"; be sure to arrange their living quarters so you can see them sleeping! When they wake up from hibernation, it's mating season and they attract females with high-pitched calls. If you keep them as a pair, be aware that breeding occurs during this period. Summary of the Living Fossil - The Japanese Dormouse Source :YouTube screenshot Did you enjoy learning about the cute Japanese dormouse? We hope you were able to learn more about the biology of the Japanese dormouse, a once semi-endangered species and protected species in Japan. If you haven't yet, be sure to check out the video to see footage of this cute critter! -
Video article 4:51
The Iriomote Cat - Spectacular Footage of the Okinawan Cat With a Population of Just 100! Its Incredible Ability to Adapt to Nature Keeps It Alive
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The Nationally Protected "Iriomote Cat" This video, "Iriomote cat," was created by "okinawastoryMediaLib," and features special footage of the rare and endangered species- the Iriomote cat. In this article, we bring you facts and information on the ecology of the Iriomote cat, a subspecies of the Leopard cat. From 00:24 in the video, you can see the carnivorous Iriomote cat search for and successfully find food amongst the fallen leaves. The Iriomote cat looks different from a domestic cat in several ways: it has round ears with a cloudy white mark on its back (a feature found in many wild cats), a thick, bushy tail, its fur has a spotted pattern, and the area surrounding the eyes is white in color. Take a look at the unique features of the Iriomote cat in this video! More About the Iriomote Cat, a Species Endemic to the Iriomote Island of Okinawa Photo:Iriomote cat The Iriomote cat, native to Iriomote Island, is often referred to as Yamapikarya or Yamamaya by the locals. The call of an Iriomote cat sounds similar to that of a domestic cat, however they rarely cry. Unfortunately, the number of Iriomote cats is decreasing and there are thought to be only around 100 cats remaining on Iriomote Island. In 1965, when the Iriomote cat was first discovered on Iriomote Island, it was thought to be a new species. However, research has categorized the Iriomote cat as a member of the genus Prionailurus, family Felidae. Other than the domesticated cat, the Iriomote cat of Iriomote Island and the leopard cat (scientific name: Prionailurus bengalensis euptilurus) of Nagasaki prefecture's Tsushima Island are the only two known cat species to inhabit Japan. Iriomote cats are nocturnal animals who live in the mountain forest. Outside of breeding season they tend to live a solitary life. The average weight of an Iriomote cat is 3-4kg, with an average height 50-60cm, and an average life span of 7-8 years in the wild. They have a varied diet that consists of small mammals, birds, reptiles, frogs and insects. The breeding season is from February to April during which time they stick to their territory avoiding potential rivals (other members of the same sex). Unfortunately, the survival of the Iriomote cat is under threat from the continued development destroying their habitat, traffic accidents, and contagious diseases. There are no zoos or facilities that breed or raise Iriomote cats. However, the Iriomote Wildlife Conservation Center strives to protect the Iriomote cat and at the facility you can learn about the rare cat through various materials, documents, and even stuffed animals. You can also purchase cute Iriomote cat plush toys, T-shirts, and other Iriomote cat related goods at the Iriomote Island Tourist Center. Summary of the Iriomote Cat Source :YouTube screenshot Please take a look at the beautiful Iriomote cat in this video as it's incredibly rare to catch a glimpse of this endangered species in the wild. From 3:51 in the video, you can even see some rare footage of the Iriomote cat climbing a tree. We hope you enjoyed watching this precious footage of the Iriomote cat! 【Official Website】Iriomote Wildlife Conservation Center, Iriomote cat https://iwcc.jp/iriomotecat/cat/ -
Video article 1:51
Danger Level Maximum; Wild Boars Coming Right at You! The Powerful Charge of These Beasts Is Not to Be Underestimated!
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Wild Japanese Boars The video "MI0231 Japanese Boar Adult Beast" (MI0231 ニホンイノシシ 成獣), was created by "Asia Nature Library." It captures footages of a dangerous wild Japanese boar. The large, sturdy body of the Japanese wild boar was filmed from up close, showing off just how strong it is. Feel the power of the wild Japanese boar in the video! Be sure to follow along as you read this article! The Japanese Boar Photo:Japanese boar The Japanese wild boar is a member of the Suidae family and Artiodactyla order. Its scientific name is "sus scrofa," and it's often just called a boar. Its characterized by its ability to lunge and be aggressive. On the other hand, it's timid and acts with caution. Moreover, the boar is known as the "Pig," which is one of the twelve Chinese zodiacs, and young boars are called "piglets." Japanese boars have hard, thick, and coarse fur, the color of which is generally brown or dark brown, but every once in a while white boars are found. The lifespan of the Japanese boar is about 10 years. They also have the ability to jump and they can leap 1 meter high without a run-up. The size of the Japanese boar is 100-170 cm in length, 60-90 cm in shoulder height, with tails 30-40 cm long. They weigh 80-190 kg. At the highest end, a boar that weighed around 220 kg was caught as well. Their lower jaw is equipped with tusks. Normally they are active in the day, but their behavioral pattern changes to that of nocturnal animals when they are in an area with humans. They have a wide range of activity and have been reported to travel up to several kilometers a day, and their keen sense of smell allows them to sniff out crops, and they can even destroy farmland. They also occasionally swim to nearby islands. Historically in Japan, wild boars had been hunted for meat. People used to eat meat from boars, deer, etc., but eaten meat was mostly avoided after the introduction of Buddhism to Japan. Even in the present day, they are caught by the likes of the matagi (traditional winter hunters), and eaten in game meat cuisine, wild boar stew (ぼたん鍋, botan nabe), and more. Types of Boars Photo:Boar Wild boars originally lived mainly in Asia and Europe, but were introduced to the Americas and Australia by human intervention. While boars now inhabit many places around the world, with a wide range of sizes and varying habitats. In northeast China and Alabama in the US, boars that weigh more than 300 kg have been reported. In Japan, there are 2 subspecies, the Japanese boar that inhabits Honshu, Shikoku, and Kyushu, and the Ryukyu boar in Okinawa. The Danger of the Wild Japanese Boar Photo:Boar Wild Japanese boars are timid by nature and rarely attack humans by themselves, but they may be provoked when encountered at close range or if agitated. The Japanese wild boar can run at speeds of up to 45 km/h and, they have incredibly powerful lunges, making them very dangerous if they decide to attack. If you are passing through an area where there have been reports of boars, you can use bells or other sounds to alert people. Wild Japanese wild boars are omnivorous, eating mostly plants, fruits, bamboo shoots, and mushrooms that grow in the forests. You can see a close-up of a wild boar eating at 0:25 in the video. They have been reported to destroy crops and plants, so those who live near a forest are advised to be careful. Summary of the Wild Japanese Boar The video featured in this article gives an up close look at Japan's wild boars. It's an animal you won't find in zoos, so be sure to check it out! If you're a fan of animals, be sure to give it a watch! -
Video article 3:15
Cute Ezo Red Foxes Playing in Hokkaido. Learn About the Wildlife of Japan!
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Introducing Hokkaido's Cutest Critters! This video "Parent and child of fox" shows the state of the ezo red fox inhabiting In Hokkaido's, lush wilderness. You can see many wild animals such as raccoons and foxes in Hokkaido's outdoors. Be sure to watch the video to follow along. The Ezo red fox mother curled up with her kit is just adorable! There are many fans of the Ezo red fox in Japan. In 1978, a documentary movie called "The Glacier Fox" was released and became quite popular at the time. In the video, you can see a picture of an Ezo red fox mother with her kit living in nature. It's very soothing scenery. Please enjoy watching it! What Are Ezo Red Foxes? Source :YouTube screenshot Ezo red foxes are an endangered species that are widely distributed throughout Hokkaido and are also calledSakhalin. They have been frequently seen in Aomori Prefecture in recent years. It is a subspecies of the red fox that inhabits various places, and it is a carnivorous mammal. It is slightly larger than the Japanese red fox inhabiting Honshu. Its life span is generally said to be around 10 years. Ezo red foxes make high-pitched calls such as “can-can” and “wan-wan” They often eat rats, birds, and insects as food. And sometimes they come to residential areas in search of food. In this video, the kit stays close to its mother for safety and to play. From 0:06 in the video, they give playful bites and cuddle each other. It is a very cute, relaxing video about 3 minutes long. Where Can I See an Ezo Red? Photo:Ezo red foxes You may want to encounter a wild ezo red fox, but be careful as wild animals can have a parasite called Echinococcus. Kitami City, Hokkaido, has a fox specialty zoo “Ezo Red Fox Ranch”, where you can observe the ecology of cute red foxes in safety. Although it is in Hokkaido, it is quite far from Sapporo City. So if you visit Kitami City, we recommend making a hotel reservation. Summary of Hokkaido's Ezo Red Foxes Photo:Red fox The family of red foxes shown in the video is very adorable. Ezo red foxes live together in the harsh natural environment of Hokkaido. There is also a crepe shop in Fukuoka Prefecture called "Northern Fox's Favorite", which is popular with locals and tourists. Please enjoy the video of Ezo red foxes in Hokkaido; the place with the highest encounter rate of Ezo red foxes, in Japan. -
Video article 4:50
A Rare Video of a Wild Marten! Can They Be Kept as Pets? What Kind of Animal Is This Cute Critter? Learn About Their Ecology and Daily Lives!
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A Look at the Wild Marten! This video, titled "A Close up of a Wild Marten" shows rare footage of a wild marten chowing down. Marten are small animals similar to stoats, ferrets, and weasels. The animal is often treated as a supernatural species in many parts of Japan. There are legends and folktales about the marten that say it has the ability to shapeshift into a raccoon or a fox, and that the misfortunes that occur in villages are due to the work of the marten. In this article, we'll explore the ecology and characteristics of the marten! The Marten - Types and Habitat Photo:Marten The marten is a carnivorous animal that constitutes the genus Martes in the family Mustelidae. Marten are generally 44-55 cm long with tails 17-23 cm long, and they weigh around 1 kilogram. Most wild marten in Japan are found on Honshu (Japan's main island), but they are also widely distributed in Shikoku and Kyushu. In Tsushima, Kyushu region Nagasaki prefecture, there is an endemic subspecies called the Tsushima marten. The Japanese sable of Hokkaido is said to be a different species than the marten. There are other types of marten around the world, such as the yellow-throated marten, American marten, Japanese sable, and European pine marten. The Characteristics and Ecology of the Japanese Marten Source :YouTube screenshot In the wild, marten live and breed alone, using crevices in rocks and tree hollows as their burrows. Their high pitched "squeaking" is one of their distinctive characteristics. Wild marten are omnivores, feeding on insects, birds, fruits and many other things. They sometimes appear in towns and destroy fields, so they are often treated as vermin. Their fur is reddish brown or dark brown in color, and they have different colored summer and winter coats. Some marten are even known for their incredibly fine fur. The wild marten shown in the video is seen constantly checking its surroundings as it chows down on some cat food. Occasionally it stands up to check its surroundings as well. This can be seen at 0:46 in the video. If you notice, the marten is also missing his front left leg, which may be the reason it's is relying on cat food, as catching its prey may be more difficult. Keeping Marten as Pets Photo:Marten After seeing this cute critter munching on some cat food, you might even think you want to raise one yourself. The breeding of wild marten is not prohibited in Japan, and they can actually be caught and bred with permission. However, due to their aggressive and violent nature, there are few cases of keeping them outside of specialized facilities such as zoos. That being said, it's probably difficult to care for one. Summary of the Japanese Marten In this article, we introduced the ecology of the wild marten. As you can see in the video, you might encounter a wild marten in your backyard in Japan, but they are quite difficult to care for. If you want to see some cute marten up close, we recommend visiting a zoo or animal shelter! -
Video article 2:36
An In-Depth Look at the Attractions of Kyoto Aquarium! Keep Your Eyes Peeled for the Giant Salamander- A Protected Species in Japan!
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Introducing PR video of Kyoto Aquarium, a new theme park in Kyoto! This video, titled "Kyoto Aquarium, Introductory Video. Kyoto Aquarium (Official)" (京都水族館 紹介映像 京都水族館【公式】), is made by “Official – Kyoto Aquarium (【公式】京都水族館). It's a video introducing Kyoto Aquarium. There are many historical sightseeing spots in the Kansai region of Kyoto where you can enjoy a taste of Japan's natural landscape. The Kyoto Aquarium is a hole in the wall spot that opened in the Umekoji area in 2012. It has been gaining popularity as a new sightseeing spot perfect for dates and leisure. The video shows the interior of the Kyoto Aquarium facility in just two and a half minutes. Sit back, relax, and enjoy everything the aquarium has to offer! The Main Attraction of the Kyoto Aquarium- The Giant Salamander! Photo:Giant Salamander If you do anything at the Kyoto Aquarium, you've got to see the giant salamander, a protected species in Japan. Giant salamanders inhabit the area around the Kamo River (鴨川, Kamogawa), a sightseeing spot in Kyoto, and the ecology can be seen in detail at the Kyoto Aquarium exhibition “Kyonokawa Zone.” It can be seen in the video at 0:15. Many souvenirs are sold at the souvenir shop, including a 170cm (5.5 ft.) long, stuffed giant salamander. Recommended Spots at the Kyoto Aquarium At the Kyoto Aquarium, we recommend checking out "Sango Sea," where you can see clown fish, "Kaiju Zone," where you can meet cute seals, "Kyo no Umi," where you can find green turtles, and the "Penguin Zone" where many penguins live. Don't miss out on the crab, shrimp, rays, and sharks at "Iso no Classroom," as well as the jellyfish aquarium where you can take beautiful pictures for your Instagram. You can see the jellyfish swimming gracefully at 1:16 in the video. Enjoy the Experience Program at the Kyoto Aquarium! Photo:Dolphin show The performance seen at the 180-degree panoramic dolphin stadium at Kyoto Aquarium, introduced at 1:44, is amazing. Dolphin shows can become crowded pretty quickly, so we recommend grabbing a seat sooner rather than later. You can also participate in other events such as feeding time and experiences where you can touch some fish. There are also lunch and cafe shops inside the hotel, so you can enjoy delicious food that can only be eaten here. Summary of Kyoto Aquarium The Kyoto Aquarium houses around 250 species of marine life. Many creatures are introduced in the video as well. Which one was your favorite? Check out the video again to get a better look at some of your favorite exhibits and to see anything you may have missed the first time around. The Kyoto Aquarium, where you can meet cute creatures, is a tourist attraction that you should add to your Kyoto sightseeing trip. ◆Kyoto Aquarium Facility Overview◆ 【Address】35600-8835 35-1 Kankiji-cho, Shimogyo-ku, Kyoto 【Access】About 15 minutes by walk from Kyoto Station 【Hours】From 10:00 to 18:00 【Closures】Open all year round 【Parking】None 【Telephone No】 075-354-3130 【Admission fee】Adults 2,050 yen, high school students 1,550 yen, middle and elementary school students 1,000 yen, infants 600 yen (* as of November 2019) 【Official Website】Kyoto Aquarium, just off Umekoji Kyoto Nishi Station https://www.kyoto-aquarium.com/en/ -
Video article 5:00
Meet Animals From Around the World at Yokohama Zoological Gardens ZOORASIA! Celebrating Its 20th Anniversary, This Zoo in Kanagawa Prefecture Is One of the Largest in Japan and Is Full of Exciting Attractions!
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Breathtaking Animals and Exciting Events at Yokohama Zoological Gardens ZOORASIA This video, titled "Yokohama Zoological Gardens ZOORASIA" (よこはま動物園ズーラシア), was released by "CityOfYokohama." It introduces the amazing animals and exciting events at Yokohama Zoological Gardens ZOORASIA. There are three zoos in Yokohama, Kanagawa, located in Japan's Kanto region: Yokohama Zoological Gardens ZOORASIA, Nogeyama Zoological Gardens, and Kanazawa Zoological Gardens. Of these, Yokohama Zoological Gardens ZOORASIA is famous for being one of the largest zoos in Japan. There are also restaurants, cafes, and stores in the park, so animal lovers can enjoy themselves all day long. The video introduces cute newborn animals, crowd favorites, and exciting events. Yokohama Zoological Gardens ZOORASIA, which celebrated its 20th anniversary in 2019, was created based on the concept of "symbiosis of life and harmony with nature." The zoo has been managed with the hope that by recreating an environment where the animals are comfortable, visitors will be able to see them in their natural state. (Prince) Rajkumar, an Indian elephant that has been entertaining visitors since the park opened, is introduced at 1:59 in the video. You can also see a baby Francois' leaf monkey in the video. ZOORASIA - Events, Tours, and More! Photo:A bird show at Yokohama Zoological Gardens ZOORAISA At Yokohama Zoological Gardens ZOORASIA, there is also a bird show where you can interact with birds, as can be seen at 3:04 in the video. At Yokohama Zoological Gardens ZOORASIA, there is also a bird show where you can interact with birds, as can be seen at 3:04 in the video. There's also "Night ZOORASIA" where you can see nocturnal animals being active, and "ZOORASIA Night Market" where you can enjoy animal print illuminations and gourmet food, held on a regular basis. This can be seen at 3:23 in the video. At Yokohama Zoological Gardens ZOORASIA, you can feed horses, ride horses, and enjoy other hands-on experiences. There's also a "Kitchen Tour" held every Saturday. During this free tour, visitors can see how food is prepared for the animals in the zoo. Yokohama Zoological Gardens ZOORASIA is surrounded by Yokohama Animal Forest Park (横浜動物の森公園) and Korokoro Lawn (ころころ広場), making it a wide-area park. There are also many hotels and other lodging facilities around the park, making it a great place for families with small children to stay the night. Interact With the Animals at Yokohama Zoological Gardens ZOORASIA! Photo:A lion Yokohama Zoological Gardens ZOORASIA exhibits 750 animals of approximately 100 species, divided into eight zones according to climate zone and region. These zones are: "Asian Tropical Forest," "Subarctic Forest," "Oceania Grassland," "Central Asian Highland," "Japanese Countryside," "Amazon Jungle," "African Tropical Rainforest," and "African Savanna. The animals you can see at Yokohama Zoological Gardens ZOORASIA (Non-comprehensive list) In addition to the rare Okapi and the endangered Sumatran tiger, you can also see Asiatic lions, horses, elands, giant anteaters, Steller's sea eagles, giraffes, Oriental storks, chimpanzees, cheetahs, proboscis monkeys, Japanese macaques, Japanese black bears, Eastern Black Rhinoceroses, Arabian camels, polar bears, Japanese raccoon dogs, Bornean orangutans, Malayan tapirs, red pandas, and more. Access to Yokohama Zoological Gardens ZOORASIA and Other Important Information Please note that pets are not allowed in the park. That being said, certified service dogs are allowed to enter the park, although access to some areas of the park may be restricted. ◇Yokohama Zoological Gardens ZOORASIA◇ 【Hours】9:30 AM – 4:30 PM 【Advance Reservations】Advance reservations are required for admission on weekends and holidays 【Closures】Tuesdays (or the following day if Tuesday is a national holiday), year-end and New Year holidays 【Address】1175-1 Kamishiranecho, Asahi Ward, Yokohama, Kanagawa 241-0001 【Park Map】An English version of the map of the zoo can be found on the official website 【Access】Accessible by taxi from "Tsurugamine Station" or "Mitsukyo Station" on the Sotetsu Line. When accessing via JR/City Subway, take the bus bound for "Yokohama Zoo" (よこはま動物園, Yokohama Dobutsuen) from the south exit of Nakayama Station and get off at "Yokohama Zoo." 【Parking】Parking available for up to 2,200 vehicles: 1,000 yen per day, buses: 2,500 yen per day Summary of Yokohama Zoological Gardens ZOORASIA's Animals and Events Photo:The Tsushima leopard cat on the verge of extinction In this article, we introduced the attractions of Yokohama Zoological Gardens ZOORASIA. Yokohama Zoological Gardens ZOORASIA is also working to protect and breed animals, and has succeeded in repopulating the Tsushima Leopard Cat, which is said to be on the verge of extinction. Yokohama Zoological Gardens ZOORASIA also hopes to protect endangered species, which are expected to increase in number in the future. 【Official Website】Yokohama Zoological Gardens ZOORASIA (Automatic translation tool available) https://www.hama-midorinokyokai.or.jp/zoo/zoorasia/ 【Tripadvisor】Yokohama Zoological Gardens ZOORASIA https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g298173-d561517-Reviews-Yokohama_Zoo_Zoorasia-Yokohama_Kanagawa_Prefecture_Kanto.html -
Video article 3:01
The Northern Pika of Japan: Learn About the Cute Critter Known as the "God of Rocky Lands" and Found in the Outdoors of Hokkaido. Also See Its Characteristic High-Pitched Cry!
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An Introduction to Northern Pika! This is a video on the ecology of Northern Pika, an endangered species in Hokkaido. The video, titled "Keep it up! Northern Pika - He can do his best. Pika" (頑張れ!エゾナキウサギ He can do his best. Pika), was released by "Shinji Kawamura." The Northern Pika, is a small mammal of the ochotonidae family, and its identifying characteristic is its high pitched cry. In Japan, they only live in high lands like Mt. Daisetsu, Mt. Yubari, and Mt. Hidaka in Hokkaido. Their distinct high pitched cry can be seen in the video from 1:09. The Northern Pika is said to have arrived in Japan from the Siberian continent during the ice age. In this video, you can see the lives of cute, wild Northern Pika. Please enjoy the video showing the ecology of Northern Pika. What is the Northern Pika? Photo:Northern Pika The Northern Pika is also called the "God of Rocky Lands" due to its habit of running around the rocky land of their natural habitat. Hokkaido’s aboriginal Ainu people used to call the Northern Pika "Cicit Cu Kamuy" (チチッ・チュ・カムイ, roughly "The Cheeping God") in Ainu language. The mouse-like Northern Pika is very small, weighing only about 60-150 grams, with a length of 10-20 cm, and a lifespan of about 4-5 years, which is shorter than most pika. They are full of curiosity but very timid, so they are very rarely seen in public. Their natural habitat is the cold wind caves of the Daisetsuzan mountains located high above sea level that don't freeze during the winter. In Japan, these critters are also known to only inhabit Hokkaido. Their breeding period is once a year from spring to summer, and they give birth to 1 to 5 kittens at a time. How Northern Pika Survive Winter The Northern Pika is entirely vegetarian, feeding on every plant in the mountains and is sometimes called "the pacifist of the mountains." In the video from 0:42, there is a scene of an Northern Pika with leaves in its mouth. Northern Pika do not hibernate so they must make winter preparations before the snow piles up. This involves stocking their houses with food. They have the intelligence to dry plants such as leaves, turning it into a dry-grass-preserved food which allows them to survive up to 6 months of harsh winter. They store about a bucketful of food in each of the several locations in their territory. You can see this in the video from 1:49. Where Can I See Northern Pika? Photo:Beautiful Autumn Leaves at Daisetsuzan Northern Pika live in only limited parts of Hokkaido, so the possibility of encountering them is very low. If you do mountain climbing or participate in nature tours and go to photo points, you may have a chance to see them. Northern Pika only live in the wild, and it is said that they cannot be raised in zoos and laboratories. It is also impossible to keep them as pets. If you are attracted to the cute Northern Pika, we recommend that you buy a plush toy or photo book as a souvenir of your trip to Hokkaido. Summary of the Northern Pika In the introductory video, you can see scenes of Northern Pika running around busily searching for food. There's something soothing about looking at this little critter squeaking about. These animals are hard to find in the wild, so be sure to take the time to check out the videos and enjoy their cuteness! -
Video article 7:40
Ezo Brown Bears Catching Lunch in the Outdoors of Hokkaido! See the 2-Meter-Tall Bears Snatching Fish From a River Right Before Your Eyes!
Living Things- 867 plays
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Introducing the Wild Brown Bears of Hokkaido This video, titled “Encountering Wild Brown Bears that are Catching Salmon @ Shiretoko Hokkaido 20131010(野生のヒグマと遭遇 サケを捕食@北海道 知床 20131010)” films two wild brown bears catching salmon that were swimming in the river. A brown bear is terrestrial mammal of the Ursidae family and their size is about the same as polar bears. Sub-species of foreign brown bears include Kodiak bears, Grizzly bears and Himalayan bears. The main sub-spices of brown bears which inhabit Hokkaido are called Ezo brown bears. This video is of wild Ezo brown bears catching salmon at the river, and it is a very rare sight. We hope you enjoy their fishing skills! What Kind of Animal Is the Ezo Brown Bear? Photo:Ezo brown bear One of the most well-known bears in Japan is the Asian black bear. These black bears actually inhabit the main island of japan. Ezo brown bears, on the other hand, inhabit forests in Hokkaido where the climate is generally colder. Ussuri brown bears are another bear that is a subspecies of brown bears. The Ussuri brown bear is also known as the Ezo brown bear. The size differs depending on the gender, with male bears being about 1.9 to 2.3 meters tall and weighing 120 kg to 250 kg. Female bears are about 1.6 to 1.8 meters tall, and are actually heavier than than males, weighing between 150 to 160 kg. Some of them are gigantic, weighing in at 450 kg. The Ezo brown bears inhabiting Japan are the largest kind of terrestrial animal in Japan. The number of Ezo brown bears is around 2,244 to 6,476 (as of 2013). The bears are known as omnivorous, and they like to eat fish, meat, and plants as well. The life span of a wild Ezo brown bear is about 30 years. They tend to live longer than different mammals. Highlights of Ezo Brown Bears Source :YouTube screenshot The video shows the viewers two Ezo brown bears hunting salmon at a river. It was filmed in October when the bears were getting ready for hibernation. From 4:21 in the video, we can see bears using both of their paws to catch salmon. At 0:18, one bear carries a salmon to the side of the river. At 4:54, the bears bring salmon ashore and comfortably enjoy their meals in peace. You'll be surprised by what happens at the end. Be sure to watch the full video so you don't miss out! The bears were so focused on their hunting that they didn't show any fear of the people filming them. Its incredibly rare that we see footage of Hokkaido's wild brown bears hunting. Be Aware of Wild Bears When Traveling to Hokkaido! Photo: Beware of Bears In Hokkaido, A study has been conducted to work on how to handle wild Ezo brown bears and ways of coexisting with them. There are several cases of humans being attacked by wild bears in Hokkaido. If you visit Hokkaido, please be aware that there are wild bears and research the areas in advance. Before your travels, please make sure that there are no wild bear alerts in the area you are traveling to. In order to keep bears away, have bells or turn on a radio to show them that humans are around. If you do encounter a wild bear, just think that bears are also afraid of humans. Screaming makes the bear scared, and it will enter into a defensive mode, and might try to attack you. Avoid running away from bears because bears tend to chase what’s running away from them. They can run up to 60km/h so the chance that they will catch you is extremely high . Instead of running away or screaming, try standing up on top of a rock or a log to make you look bigger and be intimidating. The most effective way to keep the bears away is to use a bear spray. Some people think bears are cute animals, and while this may be true, they are also dangerous as well. Please keep this in mind. Summary of Hokkaido's Wild Brown Bears If you are interested in learning more about brown bears, please visit a zoo, such as the Noboribetsu bear park, or the Showa Shinzan bear ranch. “Higuma Doughnuts” is a cafe in Meguro, Tokyo which uses selected ingredients from Hokkaido where brown bears live. If you visit Hokkaido, please visit a gift store to purchase some Hokkaido souvenirs. Be sure to check out the Ezo brown bears, the video is too adorable to miss! -
Video article 1:42
The Bonin Flying Fox: A Rare Glimpse at the Bat That Can Only Be Seen on Japan's Ogasawara Islands in the Daylight! Listed as an Endangered Species, It Can Be Seen Here Stuffing Its Cute Cheeks With Food!
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The Bonin Flying Fox! This video, titled "Bonin Flying Fox" (オガサワラオオコウモリ), is an informational video that contains footage of the Bonin flying fox. It was posted by "Chichijima Polaris." The Bonin flying fox is an endangered species of bats whose only habitat is the Ogasawara Islands in Tokyo Prefecture. The video contains footage of the Bonin flying fox eating pandan fruit and moving around in the trees. From 0:41 in the video, you can hear the screeching cry of the Bonin flying fox. A Closer Look at the Bonin Flying Fox Photo:Sleeping Bonin fox The Bonin flying fox is a mammal belonging to the Pteropus genus, Pteropadidae family, Chiroptera order and Mammalia class. Its habitats are said to be limited to Chichijima Island (父島, Chichijima), Hahajima Island (母島, Hahajima), North Iwo Jima (北硫黄島, Kitaioto) and South Iwo Jima (南硫黄島, Minamioto). The Bonin flying fox is about 20-25 cm long with forearms that are about 13-15 cm long. It is a nocturnal herbivore, and is seen as a pest because it feeds on the citrus fruits and other such things on the island. However, the reason for this is actually a lack of food; it’s estimated that only about 100 of them currently exist. They were designated as a protected species in 1969 and began to be protected as a Domestically Endangered Species of Wild Flora and Fauna in 2009. Where to Find a Bonin Flying Fox Photo:Bat The Bonin flying fox introduced in the video is very cute (granted it's a bat). On the Ogasawara Islands, there is a night tour where you can gaze at star-filled skies, something you can only find on a remote island! On this night tour, you can observe Bonin flying foxes as well as glow in the dark mushrooms and other natural scenery. The Bonin flying fox cannot be kept as a pet, as it is an endangered species, but you can keep bats as a pet depending on the species. If you're interested in bat-keeping and looking for a new friend, be sure to stop by a pet shop to gather information on them. Summary of the Bonin Flying Foxe Source :YouTube screenshot In this short, 2-minute video, there's plenty of footage of the cute Bonin flying fox. Be sure to watch the video to check out the cute little critter! The Bonin flying fox was previously put on a special stamp as part of a nature conservation series and is popular among stamp collectors. If you were captivated by the cuteness of the Bonin flying fox, keep your eyes peeled for these stamps or other bat-themed products! -
Video article 3:14
The Minohiki Chicken - A Japanese Bird Bred in the Pursuit of Beauty! This Majestic Chicken, With Its Dignified Appearance, Is in Danger of Extinction!
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Introducing the Minohiki! This video, titled "Minohiki (Protected Species) - An Ornamental Chicken in Danger of Extinction" (蓑曳鶏(みのひきどり 国指定天然記念物 )~絶滅危機の観賞用ニワトリ~), introduces the Minohiki, a chicken bred for its beauty. The video was released by "Toyohashi Dot Television." The minohiki is characterized by its beautiful feathers, called minoge (saddle feathers), which grow from the center of its body. The origin of the name minohiki comes from the fact that the minoge grows to the point of dragging it on it on the ground (hiki meaning pull in Japanese). In this article, we'll introduce the minohiki in detail along with the video. What Kind of Chicken Is the Minohiki? Source :YouTube screenshot The Minohiki is a type of Japanese chicken that is said to have been bred during the mid Edo period (1700-1800s). It's a medium-sized pheasant, and is thought to be a cross between the long-tailed chicken, the shokoku chicken of China, and the game fowl of Thailand and is similar in build to the long-tailed chicken. It weighs approximately 2 kg. As shown at 1:35 in the video, the minohiki lays its eggs in the spring. There are several species of minohiki, including the Akazasa, Shojo, Shirafuji, Shiro, and Goshiki. Because the minohiki shed their feathers after summer, the best time to admire them is from spring to June. You can see a beautiful white minohiki at 2:24 in the video. On the Brink of Extinction? Source :YouTube screenshot The minohiki, a native Japanese species, was designated a protected species in 1940 (Showa 15). During the Showa Period (1926-1989), more than 1,500 chickens are said to have lived in the Mikawa region of Aichi Prefecture and the Enshu region of Shizuoka Prefecture. However, the number of bird lovers has declined and they are now on the verge of extinction. The Minohiki is difficult to raise individually, but you can see them at zoos and other places. Summary of the Minohiki Source :YouTube screenshot If you're interested in seeing the minohiki up close, consider dropping by The Toyama Family Park. The park currently raises minohiki. Japan is also home to many other unique types of chickens, such as Chabo (Japanese bantam), Shamo (game fowl), and Cochin. When you go to the zoo in Japan, be sure to keep an eye out for a variety of chicken species. -
Video article 4:04
Adorable Japanese Weasels Caught on Camera! See Them Swimming, Relaxing, and Playing in Their Natural Habitat in the Great Outdoors!
Living Things- 476 plays
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An Introduction to Japanese Weasels! The video「二ホン イタチ(mustela itatsi) カワウソのような泳ぎ・素早い走り Japanese Weasel-Swimming and running Donnola -nuoto e corsa」, was created by “AndreaNature.” The Japanese weasel (Mustela itatsi) is a mammal similar to the Japanese otter, and is endemic to Japan. Their body size ranges from 27 to 37 centimeters in length for males and 16 to 25 centimeters for females, with a weight range of 290 to 650 grams for males and 115 to 175 grams for females. Their fur is a brownish-red to a yellowish-orange, and it belongs to the genus Mustela in the family Mustelidae. It is similar to the masked palm civet or the Japanese marten in appearance, and makes squeaking sounds. Its average lifespan is 1.9 years. You wouldn't be able to tell that something so cute was so vicious, just by looking at it. A Look at the Endangered Japanese Weasel Source of photo :YouTube screenshot This video was shot in Moriya city, Ibaraki, in Japan's Kanto region. In this video, we see the Japanese weasel swimming under ice starting around 1:05, swimming in the water around 1:33, and running wildly about at 3:05. The Ecology of Japanese Weasels Source of photo :YouTube screenshot Japanese weasels don't hibernate, and are active throughout the year. They use holes and crevices as nests, but they generally just prefer any sort of hole, regardless of it being their den. Japanese weasels are solitary animals that are active during the day and night. They live near bodies of water such as rivers, lakes, and bogs, and are excellent swimmers thanks to their webbed hands and feet. At around 1:35 in the video, they can be seen swimming about, just like otters. They eat meat but also eat plants as well, making them omnivorous. Japanese weasels were introduced to Tokyo as a form of pest control. Its natural predators are birds of prey such as hawks and owls, and mammals larger than the Japanese weasel, such as foxes and cats. Japanese weasels didn't originally inhabit in Hokkaido. However, they were unintentionally brought there by ships that some Japanese weasels had snuck onto, and landed in the region. Most of the Ezo weasel (Ezo Itachi, エゾイタチ) species in the literature refer to the Ezo Okojo (Mustela erminea Orientalis), which is a slightly smaller species than the Japanese weasel. The Non-Native Siberian Weasels (Mustela Sibirica) Photo:Japanese weasels Siberian weasels were also introduced to the Honshu region as non-native animals. They used to only inhabit Tsushima in Japan's Kyushu region, but after the Manchurian Incident, it was introduced to Japan and raised for fur production. Unfortunately, Siberian Weasels won the competition for survival against the Japanese Weasel and expanded their territory. Therefore, Japanese weasels are listed on the IUCN Red List as a near threatened species and as endangered species in both Saga prefecture and Osaka prefecture. They are also designated as a game animal by Wildlife Protection and Hunting Management Law. There are three major differences between Japanese weasels and Siberian weasels. The first one is the tail. Siberian weasels have a longer tail (about 21 cm) than Japanese weasels. The second is weight. Siberian weasels weigh twice as much as Japanese weasels do; the largest ones can reach sizes up to 850 grams. Third is body color. Siberian weasels are more yellowish than Japanese weasels, and Japanese weasels have grey hair around their eyes. Summary of the Japanese Weasel Source of photo :YouTube screenshot What'd you think about the Japanese Weasel? Although this animal is indigenous to Japan, it's difficult to see these days. We hope you enjoy the rare footage of these cute critters! -
Video article 2:41
Kakegawa Kachouen in Shizuoka Prefecture - Enjoy Relaxing and Interacting With Adorable Birds and Beautiful Plants and Flowers All Year Round at This Awesome Theme Park!
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Kakegawa Kachouen - A Theme Park of Flowers and Birds This video, titled "Kakegawa Kachouen, a theme park for flowers and birds" (花と鳥のテーマパーク 掛川花鳥園), was released by "Default Name" (デフォルトの名前). It features Kakegawa Kachouen in Kakegawa City (掛川市, Kakegawa-Shi), Shizuoka Prefecture. Kakegawa Kachouen is a theme park of flowers and birds. The park has a water lily pond and other ponds, as well as a pasture where you can enjoy flowers and plants all year round. The facility is fully equipped with heating and air-conditioning, including the greenhouse you can see at 0:19 in the video. It's cool in summer and warm in winter. The park is barrier-free for all visitors to enjoy with peace of mind. In this article, you can see inside of Kakegawa Kachouen to fully enjoy its many appealing features. A Closer Look at Kakegawa Kachouen in Kakegawa City, Shizuoka Prefecture Photo:Owls at Kakegawa Kachouen, Shizuoka Prefecture Kakegawa Kachouen was opened on September 20, 2003, in Kakegawa City, Shizuoka Prefecture. Kakegawa Kachouen is a barrier-free facility for everyone to enjoy, based on a theme of "interaction with flowers and birds." In the park, you can see birds, such as ducks, swans, owls, and shoebills, as well as rare plants such as water lilies, Amazon water lilies, and angel's trumpets (brugmansia). The nearest station to Kakegawa Kachouen is Kakegawa Station off the Tokaido Shinkansen Line. From the station it takes only 10 minutes to get to the park via bus, so it's very convenient. The Birds You Can See at Kakegawa Kachouen in Kakegawa City, Shizuoka Prefecture Photo:Emus at Kakegawa Kachouen, Shizuoka Prefecture At Kakegawa Kachouen in Kakegawa City, Shizuoka Prefecture, you can interact with many different types of birds. There are many birds flying around freely at Kakegawa Kachouen, so you can even enjoy just walking around. There's also an outdoor emu farm and indoor area where visitors can interact with birds, such as Indian peafowl, Hartlaub's turaco, greater flamingos, and giant toucan. Also popular are the bird shows (free of charge), which can be seen from 0:42 in the video, and daily events, such as bird feeding (paid), owl holding (paid), and penguin lap-sitting (paid). Interacting with the Harris' Hawk is really exciting! The emu farm outside is another very popular attraction. This can be seen from 2:23 in the video. Many bird species that are rarely seen in Japan are kept here, so visitors can fully enjoy themselves all day long. Flowers and Plants Found at Kakegawa Kachouen in Kakegawa City, Shizuoka Prefecture Photo:Daffodils While the birds at Kakegawa Kachouen are of course very popular, the flowers and plants growing in the garden are also very pretty. Some tropical flowers, such as Ivy geranium, Aeschynanthus, Indian mallow, and impatiens (Touch-me-nots), can be seen in the greenhouse. There are also many narcissus plants in the garden to welcome visitors. You can see flowers all year round in the large greenhouse in Kakegawa Kachouen, and, as you can see at 1:28 in the video, you can enjoy a buffet under the flowers in full bloom. Summary of Kakegawa Kachouen in Kakegawa City, Shizuoka Prefecture Photo:Kakegawa Kachouen Just by watching the video it's easy to tell the Kakegawa Kachouen is a great place to relax amongst nature. The colorful plants and flowers and cute birds are also great for taking Instagram pics. On the official website of Kakegawa Kachouen, there's a blog with tips for visiting the park. Kakegawa Kachouen also sells souvenirs, so be sure to check them out! ◆ Kakegawa Kachouen Facility Overview◆ 【Address】1517 Minamisaigou, Kakegawa city, Shizuoka prefecture 【Access】10 minutes by bus from Kakegawa Station off the Tokaido Shinkansen Line 【Admission Fee】Adults (junior high school students and older): 1,300 yen. Elementary school students: 600 yen. Annual passport: 5,200 yen for Adults (junior high school students and older) and 2,400 yen for Elementary school students. 【Hours】Weekdays (Mon-Fri) 9:00~16:30 (last admission 16:00), Weekends and Holidays (Sat, Sun, and Holidays) 9:00~17:00 (last admission 16:30) 【Closures】None. Open all year around. 【Parking】Parking lot available. 【Telephone】0537-62-6363 【Official Website】[Kakegawa Kachouen] A theme park where you can enjoy interacting with flowers and birds https://k-hana-tori.com/eng 【Tripadvisor】Kakegawa Kachouen https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g1019667-d1410207-Reviews-Kakegawa_Kachouen-Kakegawa_Shizuoka_Prefecture_Tokai_Chubu.html -
Video article 2:33
Admire the Red-Crowned Crane, a Protected Species in Japan, as It Elegantly Dances Atop the Powdery White Snow! Its Mysterious Dance Is a Truly Breathtaking Sight!
Living Things- 299 plays
- YouTube
Beautiful Japanese scenery! The Dance of the Red-crowned Crane! The mysterious and beautiful dance of the red-crowned crane is popular both inside and outside of Japan. In this video, titled "タンチョウの舞い Japanese Crane Dance ( Shot on RED EPIC High-speed )," we would like to introduce to you the courtship dance of the red-crowned crane. The red-crowned crane is a member of the Cruiformes order, Gruidae family of birds, and is known as a migratory bird; however, there are some non-migratory red-crowned cranes in Japan that can be found in the east of Hokkaido all year round. The elegant looks and majestic appearance of the red-crowned crane as it spreads its wings, make it a very popular bird. A fully-grown adult's wing span can reach over 2 meters, and they are the largest wild bird in Japan). The crane is probably the most well-known example of origami and the crane can also be seen in many other Japanese designs. The most famous of which are the 1000 yen note and the Japan Airlines logo. The red-crowned crane's dance can often be seen in winter as this is the start of the mating season. From 00:36 in the video, you can see a pair of red-crowned cranes dance while matching their calls. It’s a beautiful and magical sight. They way in which they spread their wings and jump around each other is very mysterious. Please enjoy the rare and precious footage. Where Are the Largest Breeding Grounds in Japan? Photo:Red-crowned crane courtship dance The ecology of the red-crowned crane is still shrouded in mystery. However, it is known that there are red-crowned cranes inhabiting both the north-eastern area of Eurasia and also the Kushiro wetlands (釧路湿原, kushiroshitsugen) of Hokkaido. They are omnivorous, feeding on mainly insects, fish, and seaweed found in freshwater. Due to these feeding preferences, they can often be found inhabiting wetland marshes, lakes and rivers. When winter comes around, mating couples are formed and families gather to pass the winter together. The majority of red-crowned cranes choose to spend the winter in China or the Korean Peninsula although it has been confirmed by the Wild Bird Society of Japan and the Ministry of the Environment that some do remain in Japan for the winter. The nonmigratory red-crowned cranes endemic to Japan are known to have a different sounding call to the introduced species. Until they were rediscovered in the Kushiro wetlands in 1924, it was thought that this endemic species had become extinct. In 1967, the red-crowned crane was designated a protected species in Japan and to this day the dance of the red-crowned crane remains the highlight of winter sightseeing in Hokkaido. Red-crowned Crane Facts Photo:Parent and child cranes The average height of the red-crowned crane is 102-147 cm and they can weigh anywhere from 4 kg to over 10 kg. They are covered in white feathers, with black feathers covering the area surrounding the eyes down to their neck and also the tips of their wings. The top of their head has no feathers and instead exposes a bright red patch of skin which is their distinguishing feature. During the breeding season their territory can cover an area of 1-7 square kilometers. They build nests mostly in marshy grasslands, by the waterside or shallows in order to lay their eggs and bring up their offspring there. The Japanese name for the red-crowned crane, "Tanchouzuru," comes from the word "Tan" which means red and refers to the red patch of exposed skin on the top of their head. According to Japanese literature, they were mentioned as far back as 1133 in the "Shijoshuu" and often appear in Japanese fairytales and folklore. Although the red-crowned crane has inhabited Japan for hundreds of years, there is still little information on things such as their average lifespan, the difference in appearance between males and females, and why the cranes that inhabit Japan are nonmigratory. Summary of the Red-crowned Crane Photo:Red-crowned crane・Courtship dance Currently, local governments in Hokkaido are fighting to protect the red-crowned crane with activities such as actively feed them during harsh times, such as in the middle of winter. Thanks to their efforts, the numbers of red-crowned cranes in Japan is steadily increasing. It's said that the Japanese species of red-crowned crane can be distinguished from the Siberian species that was introduced to Japan by differences in the sound of their calls. You can enjoy listening to their beautiful call and seeing their dance from 00:36 in the video. -
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Coelacanth Specimens and Other Rare Marine Animals From Around the World at Aquamarine Fukushima! Go Ahead and Add This One to Your Bucket List!
Living Things Travel Things to Do- 220 plays
- YouTube
Aquamarine Fukushima in Fukushima, Japan This short video “aquamarine PR web,” made by aquamarine0715, introduces Aquamarine Fukushima, an aquarium located in Iwaki city in Fukushima prefecture, in the Southern part of Japan's Tohoku region. The video shows the submarine-like architecture and some of the charming marine animals that can be met there. Aquamarine Fukushima has a lot of experience caring for rare creatures. For example, they were the first in the world to keep and exhibit sailfish in 2009, and deep sea shrimp in 2019. Enjoy a fun-filled day at this aquarium full of marine life! The video introduces various creatures that you can meet at Aquamarine Fukushima. You can also enjoy the beautiful sound of the shamisen, a traditional 3-stringed Japanese instrument, in the background, coupled with the sounds of the aquarium. Highlights of Aquamarine Fukushima Photo:A school of fish Introduced at 0:16 in the video is the large water tank "Oceans at the Current Rip" where they've replicated the Oyashio and Kuroshio currents. Visitors can watch tuna, sea turtles and sardines swimming in schools from the triangle tunnel. At feeding time, you can witness a tornado of sardines! At 'Sea of Coral Reef' shown at 0:31 in the video, you can see a variety of colorful tropical fish that are great for taking pictures. There are plenty more things to see at the aquarium, such as sea lions and Ribbon seals at "Marine Mammals and Waterfowl of the North Sea," deep-sea fish at "Oyashio Ice Box," and "The Shores of Fukushima" where the forests and nature of Fukushima is replicated. Don't miss out on "WAKUWAKU Satoyama Jomon Village," where you can see cute Eurasian river otters, and "The World of Coelacanths," where you can learn more about the ecology of coelacanths, living fossils, in a guided video presentation. You can also see specimens of coelacanths here. The video of live coelacanths introduced at 1:53 of the video is one of the main attractions of this aquarium. Experience Based Activities at Aquamarine Fukushima Source :YouTube screenshot At Aquamarine Fukushima, there are many events and experiences where you can enjoy the beauty of nature. There's the backyard tour where you can feed marine animals, a night program where you can see the aquarium at night, and a fishing experience where you can BBQ your catch. Janome Beach, shown at 0:12, is one of the most popular outside spots for children. After sightseeing and participating in some activities, don’t forget to enjoy the delicious food at one of the restaurants and drop by the souvenir shop. As for souvenirs, you can't go wrong with the marine life goods. Summary of Aquamarine Fukushima Photo:Aquamarine Fukushima Which one of the marine creatures caught your eye? Aquamarine Fukushima is perfect for spending time with your family, going on a date, or even just relaxing by yourself! As shown in the video, there are plenty of things to see and do, and you can spend an entire day here. Why not stop by next time your in Fukushima? ◆Institution Info of Aquamarine Fukushima◆ 【Address】50 Onahama Tatsumi-cho, Iwaki city, Fukushima 【Admission fee】Adults ¥1850 (~$18 USD) Child (small from elementary to high school students) ¥900 (As of November 2019) 【Hours】 From March 21 to November 30: 9:00~17:30 From December 1 to March 20: 9:00~17:00 【Access】20 minutes from Joban Expressway Iwaki Yumoto IC 5 minutes walk from AEON mall Iwaki Onahama st. of Onahama Ena direction bus from JR Joban Line Izumi st. 【Parking】Available. 700 car capacity (Free) 【Official Website】Environmental Auarium Aquamarine Fukushima|Fukushima Iwaki Tourism https://www.aquamarine.or.jp/