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Video article 20:09
Hokkaido's Foremost Tourist Destination, Asahiyama Zoo. Learn About the Ecology of Adorable Animals at the Most Popular Zoo in Japan!
Living Things Travel- 137 plays
- YouTube
Hokkaido's Asahiyama Zoo The video "JG 4K Asahiyama Zoo, Hokkaido" (JG 4K 北海道 旭山動物園 Asahiyama Zoo, Hokkaido), introduces Asahiyama Zoo, a popular tourist spot in Hokkaido. Asahiyama Zoo is 15 hectares. It's the size of about 3 Tokyo Domes. There are over 650 animals (100 species) bred in the park. The 20-minute video contains plenty of cute animals, so be sure to check it out! About Hokkaido Asahiyama Zoo Photo:Asahiyama Zoo Hokkaido Asahiyama Zoo, known as the northernmost zoo in Japan, is a historical zoo that opened in 1951. The special feature of Asahiyama Zoo is the "Behavior Exhibit" where you can see the behavior and life of the animals. The facility is designed to allow visitors to get up close and personal with animals that move around freely. To achieve this goal, penguins roam the park freely, and they hold an event to display meal time called "Munching Time." Another characteristic of Asahiyama Zoo's exhibition is the "mixed exhibition" in which different animals are raised in the same place. The Asahiyama Zoo was in danger of closing in 1994 (Heisei 6), but by incorporating these exhibits, the Asahiyama Zoo has recovered brilliantly. During its big boom, it became the nation's top zoo, attracting 3 million visitors annually. Currently, you can see behavior exhibits at zoos around the country. The Animals of Asahiyama Zoo Photo:Asahiyama Zoo From 0:25 in the video, you can see the popular penguins, and from 2:04, you can see the awesome appearance of the polar bears at the Polar Bear Hall. In the video, you can see the tiger at the "Fierce Animal House" (もうじゅう館) (15:29-), a snow leopard (15:38), an Ussuri brown bear (15:48), elephants, seals (9:41), red pandas (18:08), snowy owls (18:46), cranes (19:10), and eagles (19:27). The park is quite large, and visitors can enjoy a variety of facilities, such as the 360-degree underwater tunnel, a hippopotamus building, a wolf forest, flamingo house, monkey house, giraffe house, a suspension bridge, and a marine way. Although not shown in the video, you can see reindeer, hippos, giraffes, chimpanzees, ostriches, Japanese macaques, foxes, raccoons, capybaras and other animals as well. One of the attractions of the Asahiyama Zoo is its various events that are held throughout the year. During the Obon season, they extend their hours of operation to allow you to observe nocturnal animals in a different way than you do during the day. There is also a restaurant where you can enjoy lunch and a souvenir shop where you can purchase limited edition animal merchandise. Take your time and enjoy the sights along the tour. Summary of Hokkaido's Asahiyama Zoo Photo:A King Penguin Hokkaido has a variety of sightseeing spots, including Sapporo City, Furano, and Hakodate, so be sure to visit Asahiyama Zoo if you're headed that way. There are a number of sightseeing tours offered, but since your time at the zoo is limited to 2-3 hours, it may not be enough to enjoy all that the zoo has to offer. In winter, business hours are shorter, so please check the weather and other information before visiting. There are restaurants and hotels in the surrounding area, so it's a good idea to stay in Asahikawa and enjoy the sights and sounds of the city. As of March 31, 2018, the Asahiyama Zoo Live Camera was discontinued, so please take the time to enjoy the animals' ecology through this video. ◆Asahiyama Zoo◆ 【Address】 Kuranuma, Higashi Asahikawa Town, Asahikawa City, Hokkaido 【Director】Gen Bando 【Access】About 40 minutes by bus from Asahikawa Station (2 hours from Sapporo). There is also the "Asahiyama Zoo Train" that runs between Sapporo and Asahikawa. 【Hours】Summer 9: 30-17: 15, Winter 10: 30-15: 30 【Admission Fee】Free for junior high school students and younger, 820 yen for high school students and older (special discount coupon available for senior citizens) 【Parking】Available (free) 【Phone number】0166-36-1104 【Official Website】Home | Asahikawa City Asahiyama Zoo https://honyaku.j-server.com/LUCAKC/ns/tl.cgi/https://www.city.asahikawa.hokkaido.jp/asahiyamazoo/index.html?SLANG=ja&TLANG=en&XMODE=0&XCHARSET=utf-8&XJSID=0 【Tripadvisor】 Asahiyama Zoo https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g319103-d780529-Reviews-Asahiyama_Zoo-Asahikawa_Hokkaido.html -
Video article 1:51
Danger Level Maximum; Wild Boars Coming Right at You! The Powerful Charge of These Beasts Is Not to Be Underestimated!
Living Things- 1.07K plays
- YouTube
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 2:43
The Precious Okinawa Rail – A Look at the Awkwardly Adorable Flightless Bird of Kunigami, Okinawa, Registered as a Protected Species!
Living Things- 555 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 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!
Living Things- 381 plays
- YouTube
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 10:11
The Tsushima Leopard Cat: A Look at the Life of the Feline That Is Both Cute and Scary. The Unknown Secrets of the Nationally Protected Species!
Living Things- 446 plays
- YouTube
The Tsushima Leopard Cat - An Endangered Species This video, titled "[Japanese Cats] Ecology of the Tsushima Leopard Cat|Wild Cat|Protected Species (Tsushima Leopard Cat)," was produced by “Orange Animal Channel” (オレンジ動物チャンネル). It introduces the endangered Tsushima Leopard Cat. The animal introduced in this footage lives only in the wooded forest area around Tsushima in Nagasaki prefecture. It is a very rare wild cat. Photo:Tsushima leopard cat What is the Tsushima Leopard Cat? The Tsushima cat is classified as a member of the Carnivora order of cats, and its head-to-body length can reach up to about 50 cm for the larger cats. It's safe to say that they are about the same size as house cats. Since 1997, thanks to conservation efforts by the Tsushima Wildlife Conservation Center, surveys have been held and artificial breeding carried out at the Fukuoka Zoo & Botanical Garden. In this video, you'll see a plump Tsushima Leopard Cat. The weight of the wild cats is about 5 kg give or take, and being carnivorous, they mainly feed on small mammals and reptiles. Their life expectancy is around 10 years. Presently, they are designated as an endangered species and a nationally protected species, so they cannot be pets without authorization. You can see the Tsushima Leopard Cat energetically playing around in its cage in the footage. It is a very cute sight to see but every once in a while it looks at you with a piercing gaze, reminding you that while they may be cute, they also want their distance. Source :YouTube screenshot The Life and Characteristics of the Tsushima Leopard Cat Tsushima, the habitat of the Tsushima leopard cat, is an island in Nagasaki Prefecture in Japan's Kyushu region. Most of the island is covered by forest, which is ideal for the nocturnal, solitary Tsushima leopard cat. The difference between stray cats and feral cats is that strays were abandoned or lost and became feral, while wild cats have preserved their species in their long history without depending on humans. At first glance, the Tsushima cat looks very similar to a house cat. However, they have a pattern on the back of their ear called ocelli, which is only seen on wild cats. From 8:49 in the video, you can see the Tsushima Leopard Cat relaxing and staying still, so keep your eyes open for the ocelli pattern. Although wildcats are widely distributed across the Asian continent, the Tsushima leopard cat is said to have its roots in a subspecies of the Bengal wildcat. In addition to the Tsushima leopard cat and Bengal wildcat, Asia is home to the Iriomote wildcat, the lynx, the Korean wildcat, and the Manchurian wildcat, but their populations are all believed to be in decline. Photo:Tsushima, Nagasaki Why Is the Tsushima Leopard Cat an Endangered Species? You might be asking yourself, "How did the cute Tsushima leopard cat's population decline to the point of being listed as an endangered species?" The video also explains the five reasons for the decline in the Tsushima leopard cat's numbers from around 4:57 onwards, and sadly, one of the reasons is humans. This includes when they are trapped and die as a result of vermin control, or when they die in traffic accidents. Photo:Tsushima leopard cat Efforts to Conserve the Tsushima Leopard Cat Going Forward Since 1997, efforts to conserve the Tsushima Leopard Cat have been carried out by the Tsushima Wildlife Conservation Center, and from 2007, artificial breeding has been conducted at domestic zoos, such as the Kyoto Municipal Zoo. Their adorable appearance has been shown on the news and other media, and they became a hot topic of conversation when they were featured at zoos and conservation centers. Currently, in order to prevent its extinction, efforts to conserve the Tsushima cat are expanding with the sale of goods, such as plush toys and the production of Tsushima leopard cat rice. It's important for us to be aware of the importance of coexisting with nature to prevent the extinction of the lovely Tsushima cat, which can only be found in Japan. 【Official Website】Domestic Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora|The Tsushima Leopard Cat http://kyushu.env.go.jp/twcc/report/pam/leaflet/index.html -
Video article 0:59
Adorable Little Faces Peeking out From Under the Fallen Leaves – This Video of Japanese Raccoon Dogs Is Making the Rounds on the Internet! Why Are They Burying Into the Fallen Leaves? Here's an Introduction to the Raccoon Dogs of Hokkaido’s Obihiro Zoo!
Living Things News- 638 plays
- YouTube
Introduction of Obihiro Zoo’s Japanese Raccoon Dogs! This video, “しぐさが可愛い!おびひろ動物園のタヌキが人気に” (Too cute! The Popular Raccon Dogs of Obihiro Zoo!), is an interview-style video first televised on HTB News. In the video, “buried raccoon dogs”, the adorable sight of raccoon dogs playing in the pool of fallen leaves prepared by the zoo’s staff, is shown. But just why are the raccoon dogs of Obihiro Zoo (おびひろ動物園, Obihiro dobutsuen) burying into the fallen leaves? In this article, we will introduce these animals along with a video of the adorable raccoon dogs peeking out from the fallen leaves. Obihiro Zoo's Raccoon Dogs Source :YouTube screenshot The raccoon dogs shown in the video are named An and Shiro. Originally, the zoo staff had hidden food in the fallen leaves. However, the raccoon dogs continued to bury themselves comfortably in the pool of leaves, as shown in the video, due to the warmth provided by it. The adorable sight of their faces peeking out from amongst the leaves can be seen from 0:25 in the video. This video of the raccoon dogs playing in the pool of leaves was posted on Twitter by zoo staff, and began to trend on social media sites. What Are Japanese Raccoon Dogs? Source :YouTube screenshot Japanese raccoon dogs are a member of the Canidae family, and are a Japanese subspecies of the Asian raccoon dog. They can be found in certain areas of Hokkaido. Japanese raccoon dogs grow to a length of about 50 centimeters and weight about 4 to 8 kilograms. Those living in the wild have a lifespan of 6 to 8 years. They are mostly nocturnal, and subsist on an omnivorous diet of fruits, insects, and meat. The ezo tanuki species of Hokkaido is said to be different from the hondo tanuki species found in other areas of Japan. Japanese raccoon dogs come under the Wildlife Protection and Hunting Act of Japan, and cannot be raised as pets without special permission. Let’s Visit the Zoo to See the Japanese Raccoon Dogs! Source :YouTube screenshot The raccoon dogs can be seen in Obihiro Zoo, as introduced in the video. However, as mentioned at 0:44 in the video, the zoo closes for a certain period of time during the winter season, so do make sure to confirm the opening days before visiting. In recent years, the “natural behavior display”, where visitors can observe the behavior of animals in their natural habitat, has become a popular display method in zoos. In Hokkaido, besides Obihiro Zoo, zoos such as the popular Asahiyama Zoo (旭山動物園, Asahiyama dobutsuen) and Sapporo City Maruyama Zoo (札幌市円山動物園, Sappro-shi maruyama dobutsuen) also make use of such displays. In the souvenir shop of the zoo, you can purchase adorable raccoon dog plush toys as well. Summary of Japanese Raccoon Dogs at Obihiro Zoo In this one-minute video, you can get a sense of just how adorable and charming the Japanese raccoon dogs are. As seen from 0:50 in the video, as the season begins to change to winter, the raccoon dogs’ fur grows out rapidly and becomes soft and fluffy. For those who want to view this adorable sight, definitely pay a visit to Obihiro Zoo in the winter. 【Official Website】Obihiro Zoo | Obihiro City Homepage Tokachi https://www.city.obihiro.hokkaido.jp/zoo/ -
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- 480 plays
- YouTube
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 2:33
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- 301 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. -
Video article 2:27
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- 221 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/ -
Video article 2:56
Enjoy Bird Watching at This Bird Oasis in Tokyo! Introducing Bird Watching & Photography Spots!
Living Things- 163 plays
- YouTube
Bird Watching in Tokyo, Japan – Video Introduction This video, titled "An oasis where Japanese wild birds gather /4K," was uploaded by "Birdlover.jp," a channel that introduces rare and seasonal wild birds found in Japan. Birds You Can Observe in Tokyo Tokyo is the capital of Japan. Despite being the largest urban area in Japan, even in the Tokyo metropolitan area, there are many wild birds to be seen. In the parks of Tokyo, you can see a wide variety of birds, including brown-eared bulbuls, pale thrushes, hawfinches, dusky thrushes, sandpipers, brown-headed thrushes, white-cheeked starlings and many more. Brown-Eared Bulbuls, Pale Thrushes, Hawfinches, and Dusky Thrushes – A Look at the Birds in the Video Photo:Pale thrush While birdwatching in Tokyo, you can see many different types of wild birds. Here are some characteristics of each. Brown-Eared Bulbuls: Gray plumage with a pattern of white spots on their bellies. They have a high-pitched call. Their beaks are elongated at the tip to suck nectar from flowers. Pale Thrushes: About the size of a brown-eared bulbul, the pale thrush has a cute appearance. They can sometimes be seen flitting about parks. Hawfinches: Larger than sparrows and characterized by their sharp eyes. You can see a hawfinch drinking water in the video. [Video] 1:30 - A Hawfinch Drinking Water Dusky Thrushes: The white line above their eyes looks like an eyebrow. They fly from Siberia to Tokyo in winter and stay in Japan until around April. Bird Watching & Photography Spots Photo:Inokashira Park So where can you see wild birds in Tokyo? Here are some spots we recommend for birdwatching and photographing wild birds. ・Inokashira Onshi Park In 1917, Inokashira Onshi Park was opened as Japan's first suburban park. It is a popular spot for birdwatching and bird photography. ・Mizumoto Park The largest park in Tokyo's 23 wards, Mizumoto Park is a popular place to watch kingfishers, grey herons, and other birds. ・Tokyo Port Wild Bird Park Tokyo Port Wild Bird Park was originally built on land reclaimed from the sea. It is said that wild birds naturally gathered in the park due to its favorable environment. Many wild birds can be seen here, including warbling white-eyes, Japanese tits, sandpipers, plovers, ducks, and more. ・Meiji Jingu Shrine Kingfishers, woodpeckers, and pale thrushes can be seen at Meiji Jingu Shrine. Although Meiji Jingu Shrine is located in Harajuku, it is home to a large number of wild birds, which is unexpected given its urban setting. ・Kiyosumi Garden At Kiyosumi Garden, you can see white-cheeked starling, eastern spot-billed ducks, and Eurasian wigeons. The Japanese garden is an attractive place to observe many wild birds amongst lovely scenery. ・Shinjuku Gyoen Shinjuku Gyoen is known as a unique bird-watching spot in central Tokyo, where visitors can observe goshawks, tits, and other birds. The Wild Bird Society of Japan The Wild Bird Society of Japan, Tokyo was formed on September 13, 1947 and is dedicated to bird watching and bird conservation. The organization engages in a variety of activities, including observing wild birds in Tokyo with other members, and conducting conservation activities in parks where wild birds are found. Summary of Bird Watching in Tokyo Photo:Bird watching Some people may find it hard to imagine that there are so many wild birds in Japan's capital, Tokyo. But in reality, many wild birds can be seen in the city, including at places like Tokyo Port Wild Bird Park, Shinjuku Gyoen, and Meiji Jingu Shrine. Bird-watching events held by the Wild Bird Society of Japan, Tokyo, can be enjoyed by beginners as well. Another attraction is that you can observe different types of wild birds throughout Japan's four seasons: warbling white-eyes and brown-eared bulbuls in spring, dusky thrushes and pale thrushes in winter, and so on. If you visit any of the places introduced here, be sure to listen for the sounds of birds. You may discover the charms of bird watching even in the big city. -
Video article 2:05
Kobe Animal Kingdom – Exciting Hands on Petting Experiences Inside an All-Weather Indoor Facility With Animals and Colorful Flowers in Kobe, Hyogo!
Living Things Travel Things to Do- 43 plays
- YouTube
Introducing Kobe Animal Kingdom, a Facility Where You Can Interact With Cute Animals up Close This video, titled "Kobe Animal Kingdom" (神戸どうぶつ王国), was uploaded by "Kobe Animal Kingdom" (神戸どうぶつ王国 Kobe Animal Kingdom). Kobe Animal Kingdom, located on Port Island, an artificial island in Kobe, Hyogo, in Japan's Kansai region, is a facility with a theme of "symbiosis between flowers, animals, and people." The 25,000-square-meter site is filled with 10,000 plants and flowers of around 1,000 different species, as well as 600 animals of approximately 110 different species. The biggest attraction of Kobe Animal Kingdom is that many of the animals in the park are free-range, so visitors can enjoy interacting with cute animals up close. There are also many shows, performances, and attractions that help visitors feel closer to the animals. The official video of Kobe Animal Kingdom, introduced here, is a short, two-minute video that introduces all the attractions of the facility. We hope you enjoy it! Meet Cute Animals at an Indoor Park Photo:Parakeets at Kobe Animal Kingdom Kobe Animal Kingdom is divided into two areas: the Inside Park and the Outside Park. The Inside Park, shown at 0:19 in the video, is an all-weather facility that allows visitors to walk around in the rain without getting wet. At "Contact Animals," visitors can interact with small animals, such as rabbits, dogs, cats, macaws, parrots, and more. There are also wild cats and sand cats on exhibit. At "Tropical Forest," animals living in the tropics spend their free time in their natural habitat. Here, visitors can interact with capybaras, tropical birds, sloths, etc. In addition, at "Wind Stadium," where bird shows are held, visitors can take pictures with owls. "Water Lilies" is a huge pool with approximately 100 species of water lilies in bloom and small tropical fish that can be fed. A Full-Fledged Zoo in an Indoor Park Photo:A shoebill at Kobe Animal Kingdom Kobe Animal Kingdom has a large indoor area with a full-fledged zoo inside the indoor park. Kobe Animal Kingdom is divided into the various regions found around the world, including Asian Forest, African Wetlands, Tropical Wetlands, Tropical Forest, and Rocky Valley, and is home to a wide variety of animals, including reptiles, hippopotamuses, wolves, bears, red pandas, manuls, ring-tailed lemurs, lesser anteaters, and Tam Tam, a pygmy hippopotamus that moved in in July 2020 from NIFREL in Suita, Osaka. There is also an ecological garden for the "shoebill," an unmoving pelican that lives in Africa. This opened in April 2021, and the facility currently trying to breed them for the first time in Japan. In addition, you can have lunch at a location popular on social media for its panorama of flowers hanging from the ceiling of the restaurant and cafe. AlpaCafé also sells original animal-themed food, such as Shoebill Coffee. There is also a souvenir store, selling many goods featuring the park's animals. These goods can also be purchased at the official online store. Experience Kobe Animal Kingdom's Outside Park Photo:A red kangaroo at Kobe Animal Kingdom Kobe Animal Kingdom also has a great outside park. The Outside Park, which can be seen from 1:35, is an open area where visitors can see kangaroos, alpacas, and giant tortoises. You can also ride camels and horses, and dog shows are held daily. At Aqua Valley, visitors can meet cute penguins and seals. The admission fee to Kobe Animal Kingdom is 1,800 yen for adults (junior high school students and older). You can get a discount on the admission fee by purchasing advance tickets or by using the hotel's accommodation package plan. Kobe Animal Kingdom is easily accessible from Kobe Airport and Sannomiya Station. There is also a large parking lot, so you can also go by car. ※On weekends and holidays, the park can get crowded, so it's best to use public transportation. Interact With Cute Animals! Summary of Kobe Animal Kingdom Kobe Animal Kingdom is a place where flowers, animals, and people come into contact with each other. Kobe Animal Kingdom is constantly changing, with new areas popping up constantly. The park is currently implementing initiatives for "biodiversity conservation" and "environmental conservation" so that the animals can live comfortably. They also conduct crowd-funding to further develop their efforts. If you're looking to experience the animals of the world, consider checking out Kobe Animal Kingdom! ◆Kobe Animal Kingdom Facility Information◆ 【Address】7 Chome-1-9 Minatojima Minamimachi, Chuo Ward, Kobe, Hyogo 650-0047 【Telephone】+81 078-302-8899 【Hours】Please inquire directly as hours can vary by season. 【Closures】Closed every Thursday (※Excluding national holidays) 【Admission Fee】 Adults (junior high and older): ¥1,800 Elementary Schoolers: 1,000 Children (ages 4 & 5): ¥300 Seniors (65 and older): ¥1,300 【Official Website】Kobe Animal Kingdom https://en.kobe-oukoku.com/ 【Trip Advisor】Kobe Animal Kingdom https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g298562-d1493150-Reviews-Kobe_Animal_Kingdom-Kobe_Hyogo_Prefecture_Kinki.html -
Video article 12:45
More Than 300 Species of Animals Live in a Zoo That Makes Use of the Majestic Nature of the Tama Area! Tama Zoological Park Is the Perfect Place for Leisure or a Date!
Living Things- 31 plays
- YouTube
This video, titled "Tama Zoological Park|All Kinds of Animals, Including Lions and Elephants!|An Educational Video for Children" (多摩動物公園(Tama Zoological Park)|ライオンや象などいろんな動物が登場!|子供向け知育動画), was released by POYO POYO." If you want to see a lot of animals, head over to Tama Zoological Park in Hino City, Tokyo! The animals that appear in this video include elephants, giraffes, lions, rhinos, koalas, red pandas, owls, kangaroos, cheetahs, and more. There are more than 300 species of animals that live in Tama Zoological Park. Since the animals are kept in an environment that is close to nature, Tama Zoological Park is the perfect place for those who want to closely observe the ecology of the animals. Be sure to visit this popular zoo that is loved by locals and tourists alike. -
Video article 1:30
The Oniyanma: Amazing Footage of Japan's Largest Dragonfly! See It Molting and Laying Eggs in Nature...
Living Things- 1.66K plays
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The Oniyanma - Japan's Largest Dragonfly! This video, titled "Oniyanma (The Largest in Japan)" (オニヤンマ(日本最大)), introduces the oniyanma, a large dragonfly belonging to the Cordulegastridae family and Odonata order. The massive dragonfly has an abdominal length of 7 cm for males and 8 cm for female. Those that inhabit Hokkaido (北海道, Hokkaido), Yakushima Island (屋久島, Yakushima), etc., have a tendency to be smaller. Their eyes are a bright emerald green color, but change color when they are made into specimens. Their body is black with a yellow pattern and fine horizontal stripe at each section. They are compared with sieboldius albardae (ko-oniyanma), but these belong to the Gomphidae family, and are different from oniyanma in that their compound eyes are placed separately on both sides of their head, and their larvae are flat and disk-shaped and live on stones at the bottoms of rivers. Oniyanma - Distribution and Habits Photo:Oniyanma Oniyanma are widely distributed throughout Japan, mainly around streams, riverbanks, outskirts of forests and mountainous areas, but they can also be seen on the plains and in urban areas when it is cooler. International visitors may be surprised to find them in urban areas because of their very large area of activity. When you find a female oniyanma, you can catch it by taking advantage of its habit of stopping its movement and hovering. Male Oniyanma consider anything that flaps its wings to be female, so if you hold a fan or other wind-producing object in front of the male, it will stop moving. If you're a bug collector, you can use this as a reference when collecting! The Life Cycle of Oniyanma Photo:Oniyama Patrol Oniyanma are carnivorous, feeding on moths, flies, and other small flying insects. Their natural predators are birds, bats, etc. They can bite humans as well, so be careful. Male oniyanma mate with females they meet while patrolling their territory. After mating, the female will go to a clean river or puddle to lay her eggs. Upon finding a suitable location, oniyanma perform a unique spawning display in which they will drop to the surface of the water while standing up and flying. You can see a female oniyanma laying eggs at 0:30 in the video. They spawn by thrusting their ovipositor into the mud in the water. Photo:An oniyama hatching Eggs hatch about 1 month after being laid, and the larvae are called nymphs. Nymphs are a translucent white with no wings and a short abdomen. They burrow into the mud to lie in wait for food to pass. When they are young, they feed on water fleas, mosquito larvae, etc., but as they grow older they begin feeding on tadpoles, small fish, etc. In addition, they feed on each other as well as nymphs of other species and, as a result, only the strong survive. It takes five years for them to become adults, and they molt about ten times before reaching this stage. Eventually, compound eyes pop out and the mouth part of the molt becomes a unique face as if they were wearing masks. Eventually, scaly wings form on their backs, and on a sunny summer day, they climb up from the bottom of the water to a stone or pile on the surface of the water and their backs split open and they emerge as adults. Immediately after hatching, their wings are white and shrunken, but over night, the black and yellow pattern appears and the wings solidify. You can amazing footage of an oniyanma molting at 0:58 in the video. After emerging as adults, they continuously feed for about a month before mating. The total life span of an oniyanma is 5-6 years. Summary of Oniyanma- Japan's Largest Dragonfly Photo:An adult oniyanma emerging Did you enjoy learning about the oniyanma, the largest dragonfly in Japan? Footage of them laying eggs is quite rare, so if you still haven't yet, be sure to check it out! -
Video article 17:09
The Cute Monkeys of Nagano Prefecture's Jigokudani Snow Monkey Park as They Bathe in the Hot Springs Are Nothing Short of Adorable! Watch These Cute Macaques Fend off the Cold in This Video!
Living Things Travel- 456 plays
- YouTube
Jigokudani Snow Monkey Park! This video, titled "SNOW MONKEY JAPAN|Jigokudani Snow Monkey Park|Monkeys in Hot Springs," introduces the tourist spot in Nagano prefecture (長野県, Nagano ken) in Koushinetsu region (甲信越地方, Koushinetsu chihou ) of Japan. The monkeys at Jigokudani Snow Monkey Park bathe in the hot springs to fend off the cold in the winter. Enjoy watching the lovely monkeys chilling out in the cold winter weather! What is Jigokudani Snow Monkey Park? Source :YouTube screenshot Jigokudani Snow Monkey Park is a popular destination for both domestic and foreign travelers. It's called "Snow Monkey Mountain" in English. The park can be enjoyed in every season, and in the fall, the leaves change to beautiful shades of red and yellow, creating a completely different atmosphere than that of the snowscapes of winter. The video shows how to get to Jigokudani Snow Monkey Park by taking the Nagano Electric Railway's Snow Monkey Limited Express (長野電鉄特急スノーモンキー, Nagano Dentetsu Tokkyu Snow Monkey) connecting Nagano station and Yudanaka station, at 0:27 in the video. It takes about 15 minutes to get to the Kanbayashi hot spring (上林温泉, Kanbayashi Onsen) parking area by bus, and about 30 minutes to get to Jigokudani Snow Monkey Park by foot. We recommend stopping at Yokoyugawa Valley (横湯川渓谷, Yokoyugawa Keikoku) on the way. You need to buy a ticket to enter when you arrive at Jigokudani Snow Monkey Park. This is shown at 3:36 in the video. Source :YouTube screenshot At Jigokudani Snow Monkey Park, you can enjoy watching a bunch of monkeys playing around. When they get cold, they hop in the hot springs for a bit to warm up. Unfortunately, if it's hot out, the monkeys won't be getting in the hot springs too frequently. That being said, we recommend visiting on colder days so you can see the adorable sight of them bathing. There are live cameras you can check out before visiting to see what the weather is like as well. Monkeys Bathing at Jigokudani Snow Monkey Park Photo:Snow monkey You can watch monkeys taking a bath in the video at 4:38. A troop of monkeys bathe in the springs, surrounded by white snow. The monkeys enjoy their bath time much like people, and you can even see a mother and her child taking a bath together at 5:06. One monkey can be seen relaxing with its eyes closed at 6:30 in the video. Although there are many tourists around, the monkeys pay no mind and go on enjoying themselves. Sightseeing Around Jigokudani Snow Monkey Park The bus tour, which goes around Jigokudani Snow Monkey Park, is great for people who enjoy lively sightseeing trips. We also recommend stopping by Jigokudani Hot Spring Inn (地獄谷温泉後楽館, Jigokudani Onsen Korakukan) and Jigokudani Fountain (地獄谷噴泉, Jigokudani Funsen) as well. Shiga Plateau (志賀高原, Shiga Kougen) is another popular tourist spot in Nagano prefecture. There are cafés where you can eat lunch, cool hotels, and an art museum that you can enjoy here. Summary of Jigokudani Snow Monkey Park Photo:Jigokudani Snow Monkey Park Entrance Unfortunately the only way to get to Jidokudani Snow Monkey Park is to walk the promenade from the parking area to the park itself. It takes about 30 minutes, so we highly recommend wearing comfortable clothing. There are some rules that you need to follow as not to scare the monkeys, so be sure to check those out as well. There are many places to stay near Jigokudani Snow Monkey Park, so if you're planning on staying over night you'll have no trouble finding a place to stay. Are you ready to see some cute monkeys in person? ◆Jigokudani Snow Monkey Park◆ 【Address】6845 Yamanouchi-machi Shimotakai-gun Nagano Japan 381-0401 【Access】~30 minutes by car from the Shinshu-Nakano Interchange, or ~15 minutes by bus or taxi from Yudanaka Station on the Nagano Electric Railway limited express line. ~30 minutes on foot from the Kanbayashi hot spring parking area 【Hours】Summer 8:30-17:00 Winter 9:00-16:00 【Admission fee】Adults 500 JPY, children 250 JPY (Coupons available) 【Closures】No regular holidays 【Telephone】0269-33-4379 【Stay time】2 hours 【Official Website】Jigokudani Snow Monkey Park http://en.jigokudani-yaenkoen.co.jp/ 【Tripadvisor】Jigokudani Snow Monkey Park https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g1117904-d324924-Reviews-Jigokudani_Snow_Monkey_Park -
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
- YouTube
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 1:40
The Amazing Teamwork of Japanese Honey Bees as They Fight off an Invading Hornet! Take a Look at Their Ferocious Counterattack!
Living Things- 202 plays
- YouTube
Hornets V.S. Japanese Honey Bees This video is titled "Small Japanese Honeybees Unite to Repel an Invading Hornet|Nat Geo" (スズメバチを撃退するニホンミツバチ | ナショジオ). The video is produced by "National Geographic." To repel the wasps, which are several times larger than they are, the Japanese honeybees use a special technique in which they cover the body of the wasp and quite literally cook it alive. Please enjoy the awesome footage shown in the video! Japanese Honey Bees Photo:A honey bee The Japanese honey bee is an insect of the order Hymenoptera and family Apidae. It is a living species that has been inhabiting Japan since ancient times. In addition to Japanese honey bees, there are other types of bees, including the dwarf honey bee and giant honey bee. These bees help pollinate flowers and grasses and make wax from the pollen in their nests in trees and under houses. The flower nectar has been processed and sold for a long time as products such as honey, propolis, and royal jelly. Most Japanese honeybees live in the wild, and those that are kept in captivity are released into the wild to collect pollen and take it back to their hives. The non-native honey bee species, the western honey bee, often helps with pollination in agriculture. Japanese honeybees live in large areas of Japan and can be seen all over Japan, excluding Hokkaido, Okinawa, and some remote islands. In addition to living in the mountains, they can also be found in urban areas, and although they are said to be endangered, the Japanese are very familiar with them. Also, unlike the hornet, the Japanese honeybee has a warm personality and is famous for not stinging people often. Combined with their cute appearance, they have a good reputation in foreign countries. You don't need a special license to keep them, and anyone can do so, provided they file the proper documents. Japanese Hornets. How They're Different From Honey Bees Photo:Adult hornets While Japanese honeybees feed on the nectar of flowers, adult hornets feed on nutrients secreted by their larvae. The larvae feed mainly on insects, and capture and feed on smaller insects such as honey bees in order to grow. These differences in feeding habits are due to differences in the body structure of the adult hornet. Adult hornets have a narrowing between their chest and abdomen, which prevents them from ingesting solids, such as insects. It's also very different in that the larvae of the Japanese honey bee makes honey, whereas the larvae of the wasp does not. Hornets V.S. Japanese Honey Bees - The Showdown Source :YouTube screenshot As you can see from the video at 0:13, hornets often attack honeybees to feed their young. In particular, the giant hornet is so ferocious that it invades the nest of bees and attacks not only adult bees but also larvae and pupae. The bee's response to such an attack is the killer heat ball that can be seen at 0:24 in the video. This takes advantage of the weakness of the hornets, as we all know bug types are weak to fire. The bees, rather than using their stingers, form up on the hornet, attaching themselves to it and creating a ball of bees. In the video, 500 Japanese honey bees can be seen covering the hornets. The internal temperature of the Japanese honeybee rises to 47.2° C (117° Fahrenheit), and the increase in carbon dioxide repels the hornets. Summary of Honey Bees V.S. Hornets Did you enjoy learning about the fierce war between honey bees and hornets? The amazing counter attack of the bees shows just how amazing nature is! -
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!
Living Things- 290 plays
- YouTube
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 1:46
The Historic Nihondaira Zoo of Shizuoka, Celebrates Its 50th Anniversary With a Renovation! Meet Futa-Kun, the Red Panda Who Stole the Spotlight With His Dignified, Human-Like Appearance!
Living Things- 87 plays
- YouTube
The Nihondaira Zoo Located in Shizuoka City, Shizuoka! This video, titled "[Nihondaira Zoo] Grand Opening:Promotional Video" ([日本平動物園]グランドオープン:プロモーションビデオ), was released by "Nihondaira Zoo." The Nihondaira Zoo opened in Shizuoka City, Shizuoka Prefecture around 1965. In the renovation project completed in 2013, "Wild Animal House 299," "Flying Megadome," the petting zoo, and other fun facilities were developed, and the zoo opened with the theme of "a zoo of surprise, excitement, and dreams" where visitors could learn about the relationship between animals and people through behavioral exhibits and interaction with animals. The new logo of Nihondaira Zoo is based on the characteristic shape of the zoo. In this article we'll introduce the new Nihondaira zoo promotional video in beautiful 4K resolution. The History of the Nihondaira Zoo Photo:Asian Elephants at Nihondaira Zoo The Nihondaira Zoo started as a project to commemorate the 80th anniversary of Shizuoka City’s municipal administration in 1965 and the current model of the zoo began in 1969. In 2007, a redevelopment project for the entire zoo was started and in the spring of 2013 the new Nihondaira Zoo had its grand opening. In recent years, many zoos have been focusing on behavioral exhibits. This is to minimize the stress on animals as much as possible by creating enclosures that match the ecology and living habitats of the animals. At Nihondaira Zoo, there are also events such as the "Night Zoo" to exhibit the behavior of nocturnal animals. In the video, you'll see facilities where you can view the ecology of red pandas from 0:20, tigers from 0:33, polar bears from 0:38, as well as elephants and various other animals from 0:55. The former Emberson House, which is adjacent to the Nihondaira Zoo, has also been designated a Tangible Cultural Property of Shizuoka City. The Role of Zoos in Japan Photo:Giant Anteater Most people probably have the perception that a zoo is an amusement park. However, the real role of the zoo is for researchers around the world to share information, study animal behavior, and spread and share information about animals to avoid extinction. They are research institutes that provide education by allowing children to interact with animals to learn the importance of life. As a matter of fact, many wild animals are on the verge of extinction due to the recent extreme weather conditions and overfishing happening around the globe. Public zoos and aquariums around the world are collaborating to launch species conservation projects and collaborating with universities to conduct animal research day in and day out, such as sex identification via DNA and breeding cycles through hormone analysis. The Nihondaira Zoo is also in charge of registering the pedigree of domestic animals living in Japan. In the species conservation project, has the best breeding record in Japan, especially for giant anteaters. The breeding journal of the giant anteater has received attention from other zoos as the longest dissertation in Japan.br> The park, which covers an area of 13 hectares, also has a treatment facility where injured and sick wild birds and animals are housed until they can finally be released back into the wild. In this way, they also provide physical therapy services for animals. The Facilities of Nihondaira Zoo Photo:Red Panda The zoo is of course a fun and valuable place to interact with rare animals. Let's take a look at the renovated facilities of the Nihondaira Zoo. First off, you can meet fierce beasts such as the lion at "Wild Animal House 299," and see rare birds at "Flying Megadome." You can also see the popular "Futa-kun" who is kept at the "Red Panda House," as well as pet rabbits and capybaras at the petting zoo. The "Orangutan House" is a place where you can meet cute orangutans with their gentle gestures, which can be seen from 1:13 in the video. Besides that, there are specialized exhibition corners, such as the "Herbivore Huts," exhibits for nocturnal and tropical birds, "The Castle of the Mysterious Forest," the "Reptile House," and the "Penguin House," as well as the general exhibition corner where you can meet giraffes, elephants, and gorillas. In addition, there is an amusement park with a "roller slider," and a restaurant where you can buy souvenirs and enjoy lunch. It's crowded with parents and children every day! Summary the Nihondaira Zoo Located in Shizuoka City, Shizuoka Source :YouTube screenshot If you're headed to Shizuoka, be sure to stop by the Nihondaira Zoo where you can enjoy the behavioral exhibits of various animals! You might be able to discover an unexpected side of the animals that you didn't know existed. ◆Nihondaira Zoo|Facility Overview◆ 【Address】1767-6 Ikeda, Suruga-ku, Shizuoka City, Shizuoka Prefecture 【Access】A 10 minute bus ride from JR East Shizuoka Station, then a 5 minute walk after getting off at the zoo entrance (動物園入口, Doubutsu-en Iriguchi) 【Hours】9:00 AM - 4:30 PM (Entrance open until 16:00) 【Admission Fee】General Admission (High school+): ¥620, Elementary|Jr. High School students: ¥150 【Closures】Every Monday (or the following day if it is a national holiday or observed holiday), from the end of the year to New Year's Day 【Parking】4 parking lots available 【Telephone】054-262-3251 【Official Website】Shizuoka Municipal Nihondaira Zoo|A behavioral exhibition that can be observed from various angles up close and also a sacred place for red pandas https://www.nhdzoo.jp/english/ 【Tripadvisor】Nihondaira Zoo https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g298124-d1403957-Reviews-Nihondaira_Zoo-Shizuoka_Shizuoka_Prefecture_Tokai_Chubu.html -
Video article 4:17
Cute Akita Dogs Bring a Smile to Anyone’s Face! The Cute, Gentle, and Loyal Dog, Native to Japan, Is Becoming a Popular Breed Around the World!
Living Things- 234 plays
- YouTube
The Cute Akita Dogs of Japan This video, titled "Akita dogs - Loyal Japanese Dogs" (秋田犬 〜忠誠心に厚い日本の犬〜), is an introductory video that shares the charm of Akita dogs, famous for Shibuya Station’s Loyal Dog Hachiko. The video was produced by "JVT Channel." The Akita is a Japanese dog that has been designated a national natural treasure and is very familiar to the Japanese people. Loyal and gentle, the Akita is a popular dog in other countries as well. In this article, we'll take a look at the adorable Akita! The Akita Photo:Akita dog Akita, not to be confused with the prefecture of the same name, are a Japanese dog breed. Their gentle and loyal nature has made them a popular dog around the world. They have a lovely round face, triangular ears, and a curled-up tail. The Akita Dog comes in a variety of coat colors, such as brindle, but the most common color is red fawn. The red variety has a reddish-brown tinge around the forehead and on the back. They are sold at pet stores at prices ranging from 60,000 to 120,000 yen. It is the only large dog among the six types of dogs native to Japan and stands about 61-67 cm tall, with a life span of 10-13 years, which is the average for large dogs. Contrary to its larger size, their gentle characteristic are one of the main reasons for their popularity. You can see the features of the Akita dog at 0:07 in the video. The Akita dog's ancestors lived in the city of Odate, Akita Prefecture, in the Tohoku region of Japan. After dogfighting became popular in Japan, the Akita was crossed with the Tosa Inu and Mastiffs and became larger, which led to their current form today. Since they are large dogs, they need to be trained from when they are puppies and need to be walked regularly, as they were originally hunting dogs. The Charm of Akita Dogs - Obedient and Energetic Pets Photo:Akita Dog The charm of Akita dogs are their cute faces and gentle nature. There are several types of Japanese dogs, including the small Shiba Inu (dog), and the medium-sized Kishu inu, Shikoku inu, Hokkaido inu, and Kai inu, but among them, Akita dogs are considered the most loyal and gentle. At 0:47 in the video, you can see the bronze statue of Hachiko in front of Shibuya station in Tokyo, where he waited for his master every day, for nearly 10 years after his master had already passed away. His loyalty is still praised today. The original Akita dog was bred as the Akita Matagi (a hunting dog), but the number of Akita dogs has declined dramatically in recent years due to the growing popularity of small, easy-to-keep dogs and other indoor breeds. However, in recent years, the Akita has begun to attract attention again! There was a news that an Akita dog was sent as a gift to the Russian figure skater gold medalist Alina Zagitova, and she named it "Masaru." In addition to Zagitova, many foreigners have become fascinated by the Akita, and more and more people are adopting them as pets. Source :YouTube screenshot The city of Odate in Akita Prefecture, the birthplace of the Akita dog, is also working to promote the dog's appeal to a wider audience. They visit nursing homes and elementary schools to allow communities to interact with them. You can see this at 2:10 in the video. In Odate, you can also visit Akita Inu no Sato (Akita Dog Visitor Center) and interact with the dogs. Summary of the Cute and Gentle Akita Dogs Photo:Akita Dog The video, "Akita dogs - Loyal Japanese Dogs," produced by "JVT Channel" is an introductory video that shares the charm of Akita dogs. Although the number of Akita dogs is decreasing due to the popularity of small, easy-to-keep dogs, the Akita is by far the cutest and most loyal. They are loyal to their owners, and their gentle nature attracts many people. If you're a dog lover, this video is a must watch! -
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!
Living Things- 202 plays
- YouTube
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 4:58
Play With Adorable Foxes at Zao Fox Village in Miyagi Prefecture. This Facility, Where Approximately 100 Foxes Run Free, Is Sure to Make for a Memorable Experience!
Living Things Things to Do- 174 plays
- YouTube
What is Zao Fox Village? This video, titled "Fox Village in Zao Japan! 蔵王きつね村・kitsune mura," was released by "Rachel & Jun." Located in Shiraishi City, Miyagi Prefecture, in Japan's Tohoku region, Zao Fox Village is a zoo/theme park where the artificial breeding of foxes is conducted, and the park is home to around 250 foxes of six different species. With more than 100 foxes free-ranging and a petting area where even children can safely interact with the various foxes, this is a popular new tourist destination in Miyagi Prefecture that attracts many tourists. A Closer Look at The Foxes of Zao Fox Village and Their Varieties Photo:Red fox Foxes are mammals that are widely distributed throughout Eurasia and the Americas. Let's take a look at the six types of foxes that you can interact with at Zao Fox Village in Miyagi Prefecture. ・Red Fox Generally speaking, when people think of foxes, they think of this type of fox. ・Arctic Fox This is a species of fox that lives in cold regions and has a beautiful pure white coat. ・Sakhalin Fox In Japan, Sakhalin foxes can be found in Hokkaido and became famous through the TV drama "Kita no Kuni Kara" (北の国から, From the Northern Country). ・Silver Fox The silver fox is known for its high-quality fur. However, it's a rare species that has been designated an endangered species due to overhunting and is now being protected. Photo:Platinum fox ・Platinum Fox The platinum fox is very similar to the arctic fox, but this one has a bicolored gray and white coat, making it a very cute fox. ・Japanese Red Fox A subspecies of the red fox that lives only in Japan. They are generally slightly smaller than the common red fox. ・Cross Fox It's a very rare fox, and at first glance it looks like a hyena or a raccoon. It is said to be a mutant species of the Ezo red fox. At Zao Fox Village in Miyagi Prefecture, there is also a veterinary hospital, and the premises are regularly disinfected and checked for insect/parasite eggs, so there's no need to worry about parasites (e.g., echinococcus) when playing with or feeding the foxes and kits. In this video, a tourist to Japan visits Zao Fox Village. At 0:38 in the video, you can see the foxes being pet and interacting with visitors. Winter Is the Best Time To Visit Zao Fox Village Photo:Arctic fox When it gets cold, foxes put on their fluffy winter coats. Also, some of the foxes kept in the park are originally from cold climates, so if you want to enjoy Zao Fox Village to the fullest, we recommend visiting during the winter! However, winters in Zao are quite harsh for people, so be sure to wear warm clothes! Overview of the Facilities at Zao Fox Village Photo:A goat at Zao Fox Village, Miyagi Prefecture The following facilities can be found at Zao Fox Village: ・A fox petting area ・A domestic animal petting area There are also rabbits, goats, ponies and other animals grazing in the park. ・A fox breeding area Be sure to follow precautions as the parent foxes that have just given birth can be quite skittish. ・A dining area ・A store: Souvenirs from Zao Fox Village can be purchased here. ・The Play-hub rest area: Here you can take a break while watching the natural scenery and the foxes at play. ・Inari Shrine: If there's one thing to remember about foxes in Japan it's their relation to Inari shrines. ・The woods More than 100 foxes live peacefully in a natural wooded environment. ・Parking lot: Parking available for ~100 cars. Summary of Zao Fox Village in Miyagi Prefecture Photo:A fox at Zao Fox Village, Miyagi Prefecture It’s said that foxes live everywhere in Japan, but wild foxes are very wary and rarely seen in daily life. However, if you visit Zao Fox Village, shown in the video, you'll have the chance to see six different species of foxes up close. The closest station to Zao Fox Village is JR Shiroishi Station. It takes about 21 minutes to reach Zao Fox Village by cab from the station. JR East also operates the regular sightseeing bus, "Miyagi Zao Fox Village." 【Official Website】Zao Fox Village http://zao-fox-village.com/en 【Tripadvisor】Miyagi Zao Fox Village https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g1023408-d7388189-Reviews-Miyagi_Zao_Fox_Village-Shiroishi_Miyagi_Prefecture_Tohoku.html -
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?
Living Things- 75 plays
- YouTube
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 1:41
Enjoy a Dreamy Time With Fluffy Owls at Japan’s Owl Cafes! Enjoy Coffee, Cake, and Other Pastries While Spending Time With These Adorable Critters!
Living Things- 65 plays
- YouTube
Japan's Owl Cafes! This video is titled "The First Owl Café in Nara- 'Watawata'" (奈良で初めてのフクロウカフェ【わたわた】). It introduces the owl café in Nara, called "Watawata." There aren’t many chances where you can interact with owls, but at Japan's owl cafes you can enjoy seeing owls up close and even petting them! Many tourists from overseas come to Japan's cat cafes, but if you're looking for a more unique experience we definitely recommend checking out an owl cafe! How Owl Cafes Work Source :YouTube screenshot Owl cafes are places where there are cute owls, such as horned owls and more. Customers can play with owls while eating and drinking, and you can even feed the owls as well! As you can see from 0:49 in the video, there are cafes where you can put the owls on your shoulder and play with them too. You can also take photos with the owls and post them on social media sites. You can see this at 0:51 in the video. About Owls Photo:Owl Owls are nocturnal birds of prey, belonging to the order Strigiformes. They are called "the professors of the forest" and "philosophers of the forest." Their size ranges from 50 to 62 centimeters in length and they weigh anywhere from 500 to 1,300 grams. Five species of owls exist in Japan: the Yezo Ural Owl, Tohoku Owl, Ural Owl, Moniyamae, and Kyushu Owl. The hooting of owls can sometimes be heard as far as several kilometers away. Summary of Japan's Owl Cafes Source :YouTube screenshot If you're looking to rid yourself of stress and enjoy time with an animal you wouldn't normally get to be up close to, be sure to visit one of the many owl cafes in Japan! If you like cute animals, you can also try visiting a parrot or hedgehog cafe as well! 【Tripadvisor】Wata Wata Owl Cafe https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g298198-d9856696-Reviews-Wata_Wata_Owl_Cafe-Nara_Nara_Prefecture_Kinki.html -
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!
Living Things- 48 plays
- YouTube
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/