White-tailed Eagles in the Nemuro Straits, Nemuro City, Hokkaido, Japan. This video, titled "White-tailed Eagles" (オジロワシ), was uploaded by "Gaiapress Channel." Along with footage of white-tailed eagles living in Hokkaido, it provides detailed explanations of their ecosystem. It's a great opportunity for those interested in nature and the birds of Hokkaido to learn more about the area. Be sure to read on to learn more. The White-tailed Eagle Photo：A white-tailed eagle The white-tailed eagle is a bird belonging to the Accipitridae family and the Pandionidae genus. It lives near coastlines, rivers, and lakes, and is often found alone or in pairs. It is a carnivore and feeds on fish, birds, mammals, animal carcasses, young hares, and quail chicks. [Video] 0:12 - The White-tailed Eagle The white-tailed eagles’ size ranges from 80cm for males to 94cm for females, with a wingspan of 180-220cm. They have a distinct call, with males making a "gri-gri-gri" sound and the females a "gra-gra-gra-gra" sound. White-tailed eagles that breed in northern Eurasia migrate to areas around China and the Persian Gulf for the winter. In recent years their breeding rate has decreased, and they have been designated as a domestic endangered wild animal species, as well as a protected species since 1970. The Habitat of White-Tailed Eagles and Where to See Them in Japan Photo：A white-tailed eagle catching a fish On the Nemuro Peninsula, located between the Shiretoko Peninsula and Kunashir Island, you can see drift ice that has drifted southward from the Amur River. In the video, you can see white-tailed eagles on the drift ice as well. [Video] 0:27 - White-tailed Eagles on Drift Ice The natural habitat of white-tailed eagles is Eurasia, Europe and East and West Asia. In Japan, they mostly migrate to northern Japan, and in Hokkaido, they breed in small numbers. It takes 6-7 years for white-tailed eagles to become fully mature birds. When they are young, they have brown tail feathers, but when they become adults, their tail feathers turn white and their beaks turn yellow. Feeding Habits of Japanese White-Tailed Eagles In the video, you can see white-tailed eagles congregating, targeting fish lurking under the sea ice. The Nemuro Strait is home to a thriving pollock population, and white-tailed eagles gather there to take advantage of the abundant supply of pollock. [Video] 2:07 - A White-Tailed Eagle Stalking a Walleye Pollack Birds of the hawk family that feed primarily on fish are called sea eagles. White-tailed and Steller's sea eagles are typical examples of sea eagles, and salmon and cod are their favorite catch. You can see them preying on them in the video. [Video] 2:43 - A White-Tailed Eagle Feeding White-tailed Eagles and Steller's Sea Eagles Occupying the Nemuro Peninsula On the Nemuro Peninsula, coastal areas where fishing is carried out are inhabited by crows and seagulls, but about 6 miles offshore, there are birds of prey such as white-tailed eagles and eagles. White-tailed eagles occupy and settle down in favorable locations, such as high places with good visibility or suitable winds in snowy weather. A Group of White-Tailed Eagles Flying Above a Nest Photo：A white-tailed eagle flying through the skies In the video, you can see a group of white-tailed eagles gathering in the mountains. Their nest is located in a place far from the sea. [Video] 4:25 - White-tailed Eagles Gathering in the Mountains "Kettle" is the word used to describe a group of eagles or hawks rising together like a thermal updraft and flying into the sky. In the case of white-tailed eagles, they also form "kettles" regardless of migration. One of the characteristics of white-tailed eagles is that multiple adult birds can be found perching on one tree. [Video] 4:49 - A Kettle of White-tailed Eagles Facts About White-tailed Eagles and Their Vision The video also talks about the white-tailed eagle's vision. White-tailed eagles are known for their narrow upward sight, and it's believed that their eyes do not work in situations with little contrast, such as snowstorms. [Video] 6:05 - Regarding the Sight of White-tailed Eagles White-tailed eagles are also known to fatally crash into wind turbines. Most accidents involve hitting a wind turbine from above, which seems to be related to the narrowness of their visual field. Such accidents are commonly known as "bird strikes." Difference Between White-tailed Eagles and Steller's Sea Eagles Photo：Stellar's sea eagles eyeing fish from above the drift ice The bird with white shoulders is the Steller's sea eagle, and the bird that looks brownish all over is the white-tailed eagle. Both are large birds of prey that have wingspans over 2 meters when fully spread. If you visit the Nemuro Peninsula for sightseeing, you'll now be able to tell the difference with this information! [Video] 0:51 - White-tailed Eagles and Stellar's Sea Eagles White-tailed eagles, have many similarities to Stellar's sea eagles, such as not being susceptible to avian influenza. However, there are differences in minor details, such as the fact that they move in flocks and have gentle personalities. Summary of White-tailed Eagles Hokkaido, where this video was shot, is home to a variety of wildlife and plants. On the Nemuro Peninsula, in addition to white-tailed eagles and Stellar's sea eagles, there are also tours for bird watching. You can see wild birds such as the red-crowned crane, the red-flanked bluetail, and the hazel grouse. Take a trip to the wilderness of Hokkaido and enjoy bird watching in winter!

Video introduction of snowy scenery at “Ohara Sanzenin” in Kyoto City, Kyoto Prefecture, Japan This video, titled "[4K] Snowing Sanzenin Temple, Ohara, Kyoto | The Garden of Kyoto Japan" ([4K] 三千院・雪 京都大原 京都の庭園 Sanzenin Temple in Snow [4K] The Garden of Kyoto Japan), was uploaded by "Yurara Sarara." Ohara, hidden in the mountains of Kyoto, is the birthplace of Oharame (大原女, lit. "Woman of Ohara"), women from the town of Ohara who peddled firewood hundreds of years ago in Japan. Once known as a place to spend a secluded life, it's home to many ancient temples. This is where Ohara Sanzenin Temple resides. In the summer, people can enjoy the fresh greenery of the moss and Japanese maple leaves. But in winter, it changes completely. Everything is covered with snow, and it becomes incredibly quiet and peaceful. Historical buildings like the Kyakuden (客殿, reception hall), Shinden, and Ojo Gokurakuin (Amida Hall) give visitors a glimpse into Japan's wabi-sabi culture. Be sure to check out Ohara Sanzenin Temple during winter in the video! Senzenin Temple – Religion, Characteristics, and More Photo：Sanzenin Temple, Sakyo, Kyoto Sanzenin Temple is located in Ohara, Kyoto, in Japan's Kansai region. It is a Tendai sect temple started by the Japanese Buddhist monk Dengyo Daishi Saicho. The principal image of the temple is Yakushi Nyorai (Bhaisajyaguru, the Healing Buddha). It's said that the origin of Sanzenin Temple is Enyu-bo Temple, built on Mt. Hiei around the 8th century. After many transfers, it finally moved to Ohara in 1871. People began calling it "Sanzenin" after it came to Ohara, but originally it was called "Enyu-in" (Enyu-bo) or "Entoku-in." In the late Heian period (794 - 1185 AD), the imperial family began to live in the temple. Because of this, a member of Japan's imperial family has even been a chief priest of the temple. There are three temples of the Tendai sect (Sanmon school) whose chief priest belonged to Japan's imperial family: Shorenin, Myohoin, and Sanzenin. Sanzenin is the oldest of the three. As an ancient temple which has more than 1,200 years of history, it's a famous spot for travelers. Must-See Attractions at Sanzenin Temple on the Outskirts of Kyoto Photo：Jizo statues at Sanzenin Temple, Kyoto Highlights of Ohara Sanzenin Temple include the beautiful gardens, Shuheki-en and Yusei-en. Visitors can enjoy the relaxing views while drinking matcha in the Shoin (study). Through the trees, visitors can spot Ojo Gokurakuin Temple, an Important Cultural Property of Japan. The statue enshrined at Oujo Gokurakuin Temple is the National Treasure, Amida Sanzon. The image depicts the Amitabha Buddha and others coming to welcome believers from the Pure Land of Ultimate Bliss at their time of death. In addition, the ceiling is decorated with extremely vivid paintings to represent Sukhavati, the Pure Land of Ultimate Bliss in Buddhism. Warabe Jizo statues, which can be encountered around the temple grounds, is also popular among visitors. In the video you can see a Warabe Jizo standing in the snow at Ohara Sanzenin Temple. [Video] 1:34 - "Warabe Jizo" Covered with Snow At Konjiki Fudo-do, you can receive a shuin stamp of Konjiki Fudo-do (the Hall of the Golden Acala), written with gold paint (limited to every 28th of the month or when the door of Konjiki Fudo-son is opened). The principal image of Ohara Sanzenin Temple is Yakushi Nyorai (Bhaisajyaguru, the Healing Buddha), and so the temple is said to protect against diseases. You can go there to pray for someone you care about. Autumn Leaves and Hydrangeas… The Seasonal Charms of Sanzenin Temple Photo：Autumn leaves at Sanzenin Temple, Kyoto At Ohara Sanzenin Temple, visitors can enjoy both snowy landscapes and beautiful scenery in each of Japan's four seasons. Starting in the middle of June, Ajisai-en, the hydrangea garden, is very popular due to the approximately 1,000 beautifully blooming hydrangeas. Especially popular are the star-shaped "shichidanka" hydrangeas, which are also referred to as "phantom hydrangeas" and are well worth seeing. In the summer, carpets of green moss and blue maple trees adds color to the surrounding area. In autumn, Ohara Sanzenin Temple is enveloped in beautiful autumn colors, creating a truly photogenic space. The colorful autumn foliage of Ohara Sanzenin Temple has even become famous in Japan. Even now, the temple is crowded with many tourists in autumn. Admission for all seasons is 700 yen for adults, and an additional 500 yen for those looking to participate in the tea ceremony. It takes about one hour to see everything that Ohara Sanzenin Temple has to offer. Take a leisurely stroll through the temple grounds and enjoy the seasons, and relax with a cup of green tea and traditional Japanese sweets while admiring the beautiful garden. Summary of Sanzenin Temple, Ohara, Kyoto Ohara Sanzenin Temple offers both scenic views and a pleasant silence as the snow falls steadily in the crisp winter air. Ohara Sanzenin Temple was also featured in a song by Duke Aces, a Japanese vocal quartet from 50s Japan, which led to the temple gaining in popularity. The nearby area is also full of historical sites for visitors to explore. Having 1200 years of history, Ohara Sanzenin Temple has seen many events throughout the years. Winter is a mysterious time of year that brings both beauty and a sense of loneliness to people's hearts. Traveling through the bitter cold of winter while reminiscing can lead to wonderful experiences. After a leisurely walk through Sanzenin Temple, consider having lunch outside the temple at one of the restaurants offering seasonal foods such as yuba and yudofu (Japanese tofu dishes). Just don't forget to pick up some souvenirs as well! ◆Tendai Sect Sanzenin Temple, Ohara, Kyoto◆ 【Address】540 Ohara-raikoincho, Kyoto Sakyo-ku, Kyoto, Japan 601-1242 【Telephone】075-744-2531 【Hours】9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. (8:30 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. in November, 9:00 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. from December to February） 【Admission Fee】Adults: ¥700, junior high and high school students: ¥400, elementary school students: ¥150 【Closures】None 【Access】 By car: At Mano interchange, head towards Tochu. From Tochu, head to Ohara. By bus: Kyoto Bus Route 17, 19 Get off at Ohara, and walk 10 minutes 【Parking】None ※Please use nearby parking 【Official Website】Tendai Sect Kyoto Ohara Sanzenin Temple 【TripAdvisor】Sanzenin Temple

Video introduction of "Toba Fire Festival" in Nishio City, Aichi Prefecture This video, titled "Japan's Most Dangerous Fire Festival – The Toba Fire Festival" (日本一危険な火祭り　鳥羽の火祭り), was released by "AichiTanken." The Toba Fire Festival is a historic festival which is still held to this day at Toba Shinmeisha shrine (鳥羽神明社) in Nishio city (西尾市) in the southern area of Aichi Prefecture (愛知県), located in Japan's Tokai region (東海地方). The official name of the festival is "Toba Daikagaribi" (鳥羽大篝火, ~The Bonfire of Toba). The Toba fire festival, which is thought to have originated approximately 1,200 years ago, has been designated an Important Intangible Folk Cultural Property of Japan. What Kind of Event Is The Toba Fire Festival? Source :YouTube screenshot During the Toba festival, area representatives called "Fukuji" (福地) and "Kanji" (乾地) set fire to a gigantic torch called a "Suzumi" (すずみ) which, by the nature of the flames, predicts the following years fortune with regards to weather, harvests, and so on. The representatives of each area, called "Shinotoko" (神男), must be at least 25 years of age and before the festival begins must live in a shrine, refrain from eating and drinking, and cleanse their bodies with water in a purification ritual. Also, on the day of the festival, the Shinotoko must jump into the sea naked as part of said purification ritual. The Shinotoko from the previous year help prepare the current year's Shinotoko during this purification process and teach them how to use the "Yusuribo," a 4-5 meter stick used to hold up the suzumi. The Toba Festival starts with the Shinotoko setting fire to the 5 meter tall, 2 ton "Suzumi." After that, the Shinotoko and helpers race to retrieve the "Shinboku" (神木) and "Juninawa" (十二縄) from inside the Suzumi and present them at the shrine. As you can see in the video, the men, who are dressed in hoods, continually pull down the burning grass to get to the Shinboku and Juninawa. From 1:23 in the video, you can see the men climb the Suzumi as flaming grass falls down around them. The men are often called "Neko" (ネコ) which translates to "cat" in English, because of their clothing and the way in which they jump down from the ladders. It is said that if there is a lot of smoke in the Toba Fire Festival, there will be more rain that year, and if the sound of the bamboo crackling is loud, there will be more thunder. It is also believed that eating with chopsticks made of the bamboo used in this ceremony will prevent dental problems. Recommended Spots in Nishio, Aichi Photo：Sakushima Island Other highlights of Nishio city include Kira Hot Spring (吉良温泉) and the Nishio City Salt Farm Experience (西尾市塩田体験館). The island "Sakushima" (佐久島) is also a popular spot for enjoying contemporary art. If you're planning a trip to Nishio city, we also recommend trying some of the popular local sweets made with Matcha. Summary of the Toba Fire Festival Source :YouTube screenshot The Toba Fire Festival has been featured in the local Aichi news outlet "KATCH" (キャッチ), as well as other websites and tourist information brochures. For those interested in traditional Japanese festivals, we highly recommend taking another look at the video of the Toba Fire Festival! On the day of the festival, many food stands and special viewing areas are set up as well, so be sure to head over to Nishio and enjoy the awesome Toba Fire Festival! ◆Toba Fire Festival – Tobashinmeisha Shrine – Event Information◆ 【Address】444-0704, Aichi prefecture, Nishio city, Tobacho (鳥羽町), Nishibasama (西迫) 89 【Access】10-minute walk from Mikawatoba station (三河鳥羽駅, mikawatobaeki) on the Meitetsu Gamagori Line (名鉄蒲郡線, meitetsugamagoorisen) 【Parking】 Available (approximately 400 spaces at Furusato Park (ふるさと公園), the fish market, etc.) 【Telephone】0563-62-2852 【Tripadvisor】 Toba Shinmeisha Shrine https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g1019652-d2005852-Reviews-Toba_Shinmeisha_Temple-Nishio_Aichi_Prefecture_Tokai_Chubu.html

Isonokami Shrine – The Oldest Shrine in Japan: Video Introduction This video, titled "[Nara / National Treasure] Rainy Scenery at Isonokami Shrine in NARA, JAPAN -" (【奈良／国宝】石上神宮 - Rainy scenery of the Isonokami Jingu Shrine in NARA, JAPAN -), was uploaded by "channel WASABI." This video, shot during autumn, shows both the beauty of nature and the divinity of the area. Be sure to check out the video before reading along. Isonokami Shrine – A Brief History of the Shrine Photo：Isonokami Shrine, Tenri, Nara Isonokami Shrine is located in Tenri, Nara, in Japan's Kansai Region, at the western foot of Mt. Ryuo. The haiden (拝殿, hall of worship) is the oldest existing hall of worship in Japan and is designated as a National Treasure. Isonokami Shrine has been worshipped as the ancestral deity of the Mononobe Clan, a powerful clan in the Asuka Period (circa 592-710 A.D.). The shrine is also known for its blessings of health and longevity, its power to heal illnesses, protect from disaster, and fulfill wishes, and is designated as the 19th site on the Shinbutsu Reijo Junpai no Michi, a pilgrimage route to sacred Shinto shrines and Buddhist temples. The pilgrimage route is made up of 152 sacred sites in Japan's Kinki region, including Ise Jingu Shrine. The Gods Worshipped at Isonokami Shrine Isonokami Shrine worships three main deities. Here we'll introduce them briefly. Futsunomitama no Okami – A sword that appears in Japanese mythology. The deity is said to have been inspired by the sword held by Takemikazuchi no Kami, a god of thunder. Furunomitama no Okami – Said to refer to one of the sacred treasures given to Nigihayahi no Mikoto (a god and ancestor of the Mononobe Clan) by Amatsukami Mioya, as well as its mysterious powers. Futsushimitama no Okami – A divine sword used by Susanoo no Mikoto when he defeated Yamata no Orochi, a legendary 8-headed dragon serpent, and the spiritual power of the sword itself. Chickens: Messengers of the Gods at Isonokami Shrine Photo：The sacred chickens of Isonokami Shrine, Tenri, Nara The 30 to 40 chickens at Isonokami Shrine are called goshinkei (御神鶏, lit "sacred chickens") and are designated as a protected species by the Japanese government. They are free-range chickens at Isonokami Shrine and welcome visitors to the shrine. Chickens, which appear in the Kojiki (Records of Ancient Matters) and the Nihon Shoki (Chronicles of Japan), are believed to be messengers of the gods, and their crowing is thought to ward off evil. On the temple grounds, Goshinkei Mikuji (御神鶏みくじ, sacred chicken mikuji), which come in containers shaped like chickens, and ema (wooden prayer plaques) depicting a chicken crowing at dawn, are also popular. [Video] 2:05 - Chickens at Isonokami Shrine Highlights of Isonokami Shrine Photo：Izumo Takeo Shrine at Isonokami Shrine, Tenri, Nara The tower gate, designated as an Important Cultural Property, was built in 1318 in the late Kamakura Period (1185-1333), and in the past, a bell was hung on the upper level of the gate. The space behind the hall of worship, which is the oldest in Japan and is designated as a National Treasure, is a consecrated ground, and serves as a sacred space where the shrine's deities reside. The worship hall of Izumo Takeo Shrine, an auxiliary shrine to Isonokami Shrine, has also been designated as a National Treasure. The historic and solemn atmosphere of the shrine as well as its divine appearance can be seen in the video. [Video] 3:25 - Izumo Takeo Shrine's Worship Hall Seven-Branched Swords, Divine Amulets & More Photo：Isonokami Shrine, Tenri, Nara The seven-branched sword of Isonokami Shrine is an ancient relic that has been handed down within the treasury of Isonokami Shrine. It's assumed to be the same as a sword which was presented by the Baekje people (an ancient Korean kingdom) many years ago. The uniquely shaped sword, measuring 74.8 cm in length, is made of iron and has three "branch" swords on each side. The amulet called Go-shinken Mamori, which represents this seven-branched sword, is said to be a lucky charm with the power to rescue someone on the brink of death. The shrine's shuin stamp also depicts a seven-branched sword. Summary of Isonokami Shrine Isonokami Shrine is known as a power spot and is visited by many people seeking blessings. In addition to Isonokami Shrine, there are many other interesting historical sightseeing spots in Nara Prefecture. If you're planning a visit to Nara, consider visiting Isonokami Shrine as well! 【Official Website】Isonokami Shrine Official Website｜Tenri, Nara 【TripAdvisor】Isonokami Shrine

Kinosaki Onsen's Winter Event, 'Crab Kingdom': Video Introduction This video, titled "'Crab Kingdom' at Kinosaki Onsen in Winter" (冬の城崎温泉「かに王国」), was uploaded by "kinosakiTV." The video begins with beautiful scenes of Kinosaki in winter. Be sure to check it out. [Video] 0:13 - A Sea of Clouds at Mt. Kuruhi [Video] 0:20 - Morning Mist on the Maruyama River [Video] 3:00 - Kinosaki Literature Museum The town of Kinosaki, located in Toyooka, Hyogo in Japan's Kansai region, is known for its hot springs. At 1,300 years old, Kinosaki Onsen is a large hot spring resort town, and its streets retain a historical atmosphere from a bygone era. In February of 2013, Kinosaki Onsen was awarded two stars in the third edition of the Michelin Green Guide Japan, and was also ranked first in the Hot Springs General Election of 2016, in the Inbound category, sponsored by the Japan Tourism Agency and the Ministry of the Environment. Kinosaki Onsen is popular among both domestic and international travelers. Kinosaki Onsen's Crab Kingdom (かに王国, Kani Oukoku) will open in conjunction with the arrival of the snow crab season in the winter. At Crab Kingdom, visitors can feast on delicious snow crab, which is only available during the winter months, and also participate in some unique events. In this article, we'll introduce Kinosaki Onsen's Crab Kingdom that takes place during winter! Crab Season at Kinosaki Onsen Photo：Snow crab Winter is all about crab in Japan, and snow crabs caught in the Sea of Japan in the San'in region, where Kinosaki Onsen is located, are said to be the most delicious in Japan. Snow crab is officially called "Zuwai-gani" (ズワイガニ) in Japanese, but the name for snow crab is different depending on what region you visit, with those caught in the San'in region being called "Matsuba-gani" (松葉ガニ). Because snow crab in Kinosaki grows in a plankton-rich environment, it's highly regarded for its superior meat and kani miso. The crab is ranked and sorted by professionals, and depending on the rank, it can cost anywhere from several thousand yen to several tens of thousands of yen. Freshness is the most important factor for snow crab caught in Kinosaki. Furthermore there is also Beni-zuwai-gani, which is the same as regular snow crab , but has slightly less meat, but a sweeter taste. The season for snow crab, which is hard to find outside of season, opens on November 6 and runs until March 20. Be sure to try Matsuba-gani, a luxury food only available in Kinosaki Onsen, if you visit during winter! [Video] 0:29 - The Opening of the Matsuba-gani Crab Season Christmas and Other Winter Events at Crab Kingdom Source :YouTube screenshot During the crab season at Kinosaki Onsen, the area is referred to as 'Crab Kingdom.' One of the highlights of Crab Kingdom is its unique winter events. The Crab Kingdom Shouting Contest is held to celebrate the opening of the Crab Kingdom with the arrival of the snow crab season. Wearing a crab hat and happi, visitors shout "Kani-san, Arigato!" (カニさんありがとう！, Thank you, crabs!), followed by a message they wish to share, and compete to see who can yell it the loudest. This shouting contest is unique to Kinosaki and has become a winter tradition. The winners of the contest receive prizes, including things like free snow crab. [Video] 1:15 - The Crab Kingdom Shouting Contest On Christmas Eve on December 24th, the Crab Santa Christmas Event will be held in front of JR Kinosaki Onsen Station.Limited to the first 200 people!A numbered ticket will be distributed in advance.It is a lottery to win Matsuba crab and Tajima beef.There is a lot of excitement around the big roulette! Please join us! [Video] 1:59 - The Crab Santa Christmas Event Day Trips and Overnight Stays to Feast on Crab in Kinosaki! Photo：Steamed crab in an earthenware pot, Kinosaki Onsen ※Image is for reference only For those interested in visiting Kinosaki in winter, nothing beats hitting the relaxing hot springs and filling your belly with tasty snow crab. Here are some recommended hotels and plans that allow you to do just that! If you're looking to taste the famous snow crab of Kinosaki Onsen, we recommend Yamashiroya (山しろや). At this Japanese-style inn, you can enjoy fresh snow crab from November to March. The most popular plan is the "Manpuku Kani-suki Plan" (満腹かにすきプラン), which includes crab sukiyaki, grilled crab, sashimi made from locally caught fish, zosui rice with kani miso (crab brain), and fruit, allowing you to enjoy a full meal of seasonal snow crab. The soup stock used for the crab sukiyaki is a secret recipe made by simmering 13 different ingredients for 9 hours. If you just want to get your fill of crab, and aren't worried about the smaller details of the trip, Kawaguchiya Kinosaki Riverside Hotel is a popular hotel that offers an all-you-can-eat crab dinner at an affordable price, and is just an 8-minute walk from Kinosaki Onsen Station via the JR San'in Line. For those with limited time, we recommend the Full Course Day-trip Crab Lunch Plan at Kawaguchiya Honkan. Located in the center of Kinosaki Onsen, Kawaguchiya Honkan is popular for its traditional Japanese-style atmosphere, ideal for touring the outside hot springs, and its private open-air baths with a lovely atmosphere. At this inn, you can also enjoy day-trip crab lunches of sukiyaki and grilled crab at a restaurant with a sunken kotatsu to keep you warm. Enjoy an amazing time at Kinosaki Onsen with relaxing hot springs and delicious snow crab! Summary of Kinosaki Onsen's 'Crab Kingdom' Kinosaki Onsen is famous for its seven outdoor hot springs, which visitors can tour while wearing traditional Japanese yukata. In addition, Kinosaki Onsen is famous for its snow crab which can be enjoyed in the winter months. Also, if you take part in the unique shouting contest, you can have some fun while also relieving some stress! This winter, plan a trip to Kinosaki Onsen's Crab Kingdom for scrumptious crab dishes and relaxing hot springs. [Video] 4:29 - Outdoor Hot Spring Tour 【TripAdvisor】Kinosaki Onsen

Tokyo Christmas Market: Video Introduction This video, titled "Tokyo Christmas Market 2017 Announcement" (東京クリスマスマーケット2017　告知 / Tokyo Christmas Market 2017), was uploaded by "Tokyo Christmas Market Organizing Committee" (東京クリスマスマーケット実行委員会). This event, which shows beautiful and warm buildings, is Tokyo Christmas Market. The exciting atmosphere of the market informs people living in Japan that the Christmas season has arrived. The symbol of the market, a 14-meter-tall Christmas pyramid from the German village of Seifen, is a work of art and a symbol of the winter season in Germany. The stores lined with Christmas ornaments and other European goods imported directly from Europe allow visitors to enjoy shopping for exotic goods and delicious foods. At night, the market is lit up to create a magical atmosphere. Enjoy the Tokyo Christmas Market via video as you read along. Tokyo Christmas Market – Enjoy Christmas at This Winter Wonderland! Photo：A Christmas market, Germany Tokyo Christmas Market, which began in 2015, is an outdoor event held in Hibiya Park, a well-known urban oasis. It was inspired by the Christmas market held in Dresden, Germany, the birthplace of the Christmas market. Tokyo Christmas Market is known for its Christmas Pyramid, the largest Christmas pyramid in the world, which is composed of six tiers, each with a unique wooden puppet. The puppets, made in the village of Seifen in Saxony, famous for the Nutcracker, spin a fantastical tale as they rotate. Other popular spots for couples include a hut decorated with gorgeous decorations and a spot where visitors can take pictures with their faces peeking out from a heart-shaped wreath. There is also a diorama called "Krippe" (German for 'Crib') that depicts the birth of Christ, and there are plenty of photo spots as well! Activities at Tokyo Christmas Market – Everything You Need to Know About This Exciting Christmas Event! Photo：The Christmas pyramid at the Tokyo Christmas Market There are many things to do at the Tokyo Christmas Market. For lighting and illumination, there's the giant Christmas pyramid. The lights create a fantastical atmosphere as the various puppets tell a story. The roofs of the huts are also a must-see! The illuminated Christmas motifs on the roofs, including Santa, reindeer, and snowmen, create an exotic atmosphere! It's sure to get you in the Christmas spirit! [Video] 2:58 - The Christmas Pyramid Light-up/Illumination Tokyo Christmas Market is also a great place for foodies. The market features authentic German beer as well as glühwein (mulled wine), a traditional German Christmas drink. You can also enjoy German sausage, eisbein (pickled ham hock), and other classic German dishes, as well as hot soups to keep you warm in the cold winter weather. In addition, you can enjoy German Christmas sweets such as stollen and lebkuchen. [Video] 1:55 - Stalls Selling Glühwein, German Food, & Sweets Visitors can also enjoy shopping for European-style Christmas ornaments and European sundries for Christmas. 2022 will see the debut of a teddy bear shop, which is loved by children and adults around the world. There will also be original Christmas-only products. If you like teddy bears, be sure to stop by. Tokyo Christmas Market 2022 – Book Your Tickets in Advance! Photo：Tokyo Christmas Market Tickets for this year's Tokyo Christmas Market can be reserved in advance. To prevent the spread of the novel coronavirus, tickets are divided into 2-hour periods, so be sure to choose the time slot that works best for you. Advance tickets for the 2022 event will be on sale from November 21 at 11:00 am. Same-day tickets will also be available, but be aware that if the event is crowded, there may be long wait times or tickets may sell out. Event hours are 11:00 am to 10:00 pm (food, drinks, and miscellaneous goods are sold until 9:30 pm). Prices are 1,000 yen for adults on weekdays, 1,500 yen on weekends, and 500 yen for children (free for children 5 and under). Visitors will also receive a cute original mug as a special gift with their admission! Be sure to check out the official twitter account for more information (Japanese). Tokyo Christmas Market Summary In Germany and other parts of Europe, Christmas is a month-long celebration. The Christmas markets held during this time are events that both children and adults look forward to. Check out Tokyo Christmas Market and enjoy the authentic European atmosphere while indulging in some glühwein and hot soup in the cold winter weather! Tokyo Christmas Market 2022 in Hibiya Park 【Date】December 9 - December 25, 2022 【Time】11:00-22:00 (16:00-22:00 on the first day) 【Venue】Hibiya Park Fountain Plaza + Nire no Ki Plaza 【Access】Hibiya Park Fountain Plaza + Nire no Ki Plaza Hibiya Station via the Hibiya Line or Chiyoda Line, Exit A14, approx. 1 min. walking Kasumigaseki Station via the Marunouchi Line, Exit B2, approx. 5 min. walking Uchisaiwaicho Station via the Toei Mita Line, Exit A7, approx. 5 min. walking An approximately 20-minute walk from the Marunouchi Exit of JR Tokyo Station An approximately 10-minute walk from the Hibiya Exit of JR Yurakucho Station 【TripAdvisor】Hibiya Park

The Jewel of Shonan – An Illumination Event on Enoshima: Video Introduction This video, titled "Enoshima Illumination｜the Jewel of Shonan｜Filmed on a Sony A6600｜4K Video" (江ノ島イルミネーション　湘南の宝石　ソニーa6600撮影　4K撮影), was uploaded by "Shumi-chan" (趣味チャン). This video shows 2021's "The Jewel of Shonan," an illumination event that takes place on Enoshima. Be sure to check out the video showing 8 minutes of twinkling illuminations covering the spacious event site before reading along. The Jewel of Shonan – An Illumination Event on Enoshima: Highlights & Schedules for 2022 The Enoshima illumination "The Jewel of Shonan" is a popular winter event on Enoshima, which has been held since 1999 and is celebrating 23 years. With the Enoshima Samuel Cocking Garden and the Enoshima Sea Candle (formerly known as the Enoshima Observation Lighthouse) as the main spots of illumination, it's a community-integrated festival of lights and colors that takes advantage of the sea and sky of Shonan and the location of Enoshima. The Jewel of Shonan is said to be one of the 'Top 3 Illuminations in Japan's Kanto Region,' and was awarded second place in the illumination category in the Illumination Awards. It also ranks highly on many illumination rankings, making it one of the leading illumination events in Japan's Kanto region. Photo：The Enoshima illumination, the Jewel of Shonan Let's take a look at some of the highlights of the event while watching the video. After entering Enoshima Samuel Cocking Garden and passing through the tunnel of the Shonan Chandelier made up of approximately 70,000 Swarovski crystals, the main attraction, the illuminated Enoshima Sea Candle, will come into view. [Video] 0:11 - Entering the Event [Video] 1:48 - Shonan Chandelier, a Tunnel With a Gorgeous Glow The Enoshima Sea Candle is an observation lighthouse that has become a symbol of Shonan. [Video] 2:22 - The Enoshima Sea Candle, a Magnificent Lighthouse The entire area of the observatory lighthouse, named 'Great Space of Light,' is a perfect photo spot with its beautifully shining jewel-shaped monument made of lights! [Video] 2:30 - The Great Space of Light With the Beautifully Shining Jewel-Shaped Monument of Lights Photo：The Enoshima Sea Candle, Enoshima illumination The view from the observatory is also exceptional, and visitors can enjoy a breathtaking night view of Sagami Bay. [Video] 3:41 - Heading to the Sea Candle Observation Deck Floor [Video] 4:25 - The Illumination from the Outdoor Observation Deck As the name suggests, the illumination along the pathway of 'Jewel Forest' resembles jewels scattered all around. The highlight of Jewel Forest is the delicate lighting. [Video] 6:02 - Jewel Forest Pathway [Video] 7:12 - Illumination of Mt. Fuji Although the video ends with the illumination of Mt. Fuji on the wall, the event itself is a large-scale event of lights and colors in harmony with the location of Enoshima. Beautiful lights and illuminations can be seen at Enoshima Shrine (江島神社, Enoshima Jinja), Nakatsumiya Square (中津宮広場. Nakatsumiya Hiroba), Shonan Jewel Square (湘南宝石広場, Shonan Houseki Hiroba), Oiwayamichi Street (御岩屋道通り, Oiwayamichi-dori), Enoshima Iwaya, and Enoshima Yacht Harbor. ◆The Jewel of Shonan 2023◆ Schedule: November 23, 2023 - February 29, 2024 ◇Nighttime opening hours◇ Enoshima Samuel Cocking Garden / Enoshima Sea Candle Weekdays and year-end and New Year holidays: 5:00 pm - 8:00 pm (last admission 7:30 pm) Weekends, holidays and Dec. 23-30: 5:00 pm - 9:00 pm (last admission 8:30 pm) ※From January 6th, from 17:30 on weekdays, weekends, and holidays. Shonan Candle – A Breathtaking Autumn Illumination Photo：Shonan Candle, Enoshima Before the Enoshima Illumination "Jewel of Shonan," the "Shonan Candle" autumn event will be held for 23 days from October 15 (Sat) to November 6 (Sun). Approximately 10,000 candles will be lit at the Enoshima Samuel Cocking Garden on Enoshima Island. The warmth of the candlelight is very different from the dazzling winter illumination. Autumn is a season when people start to feel lonely, so consider making some date plans for the Shonan Candle and enjoy a nice evening out. A Recommended Summer Illumination Event on Enoshima Photo：The lantern light up event on Enoshima At the Enoshima Samuel Cocking Garden, where the Enoshima Sea Candle, a symbol of Shonan, stands, light-themed events are also held in the summer. As a summer tradition, the Enoshima Lantern Festival has been held annually since 2008, and this year the event was held from July 23 (Saturday) to August 31 (Wednesday). The event features 1,000 lanterns, as well as the light installation "Hikari no Emaki" (光の絵巻, lit. 'A Picture Scroll of Lights') at Enoshima Shrine, offering a different atmosphere in summer than in autumn and winter, making it an event you don't want to miss. Summary of Illumination Events on Enoshima Enoshima is known for its impressive winter illuminations, and every year large scale light events are held in summer, fall, and winter in order to revitalize the local community. No matter which season, the events are always romantic thanks to the perfect location of Enoshima. We encourage you to go out with your family and friends, or for a nice, romantic date. You're sure to have a great time, making memories and taking photos at all of the picturesque photo spots. Enoshima is also a great place for tourists, as it's relatively easy to get to even from distant places. However, because this is a popular event, traffic jams and other congestion are to be expected, especially on weekends and holidays. Parking lots in the neighborhood can also fill up. Therefore, we recommend that you avoid coming by car if possible and use public transportation. Enjoy the festive mood of the colder months with a trip to this heartwarming illumination event. 【Official Website】Enoshima and Kamakura Travel Guide 【TripAdvisor】The Jewel of Shonan

Autumn color video introduction of “Entsunomori” in Matsushima Town, Miyagi Prefecture This video, titled "Entsuin Temple｜Autumn Leaves Illumination｜Matsushima, Miyagi｜2019｜Panasonic FZ1000" (円通院　紅葉ライトアップ　松島　宮城　2019　Panasonic FZ1000), was uploaded by "JMF Japan Miyagi Film." It introduces the breathtakingly beautiful autumn foliage illumination event at Entsuin Temple. A Closer Look at Entsuin Temple – Its History and What Makes It Unique Photo：The garden and mausoleum of Entsuin Temple Entsuin Temple is a temple associated with the Date clan, the feudal lords of Sendai, located in Matsushima, Miyagi, in Japan's Tohoku region, a place known as one of the "Three Views of Japan." Entsuin Temple was built in 1647 by Date Tadamune as the mausoleum of Date Mitsumune, the grandson of Date Masamune. Located in the inner part of the temple grounds is a mausoleum from the early Edo period (~1603-1700 AD) which is designated as an Important Cultural Property of Japan. Within the grounds of Entsuin Temple, visitors can enjoy several gardens, including a dry landscape garden that depicts Matsushima, a garden designated as a Cultural Property by the Town of Matsushima, a moss garden that takes advantage of the natural beauty of the inner mausoleum, and a garden mainly featuring roses, created by the temple's head priest. Entsuin temple is located just a few minutes' walk from Zuiganji Temple, and as you pass through the temple gate, you'll see many kokeshi dolls that have been used in marriage ceremonies, and enshrined on the back side of the gate is Enmusubi Kannon. Enmusubi Kannon (the Buddhist goddess Avalokiteshvara depicted as a matchmaker) is said to bring together men and women or those who have never had a chance to be together, and is famous as a power spot for marriage. Thus, Entsuin Temple is one of the most famous tourist attractions in Matsushima, together with Zuiganji Temple, a National Treasure. When to See the Autumn Illumination Event at Entsuin Temple + Highlights of the Event Photo：Shinji Pond at Entsuji Temple in Matsushima, Miyagi Entsuin Temple is also known for its beautiful autumn foliage. Every year from late October to late November, when the autumn leaves are at their best, an autumn illumination event takes place. The event is held in the historic Matsushima Rikyu, which is planted with ancient maple trees. The autumn illumination event is held every year from early November to mid-November, when the autumn foliage is at its best. [Autumn Foliage Illumination in 2023]. Period: October 28 - November 19, 2023 Venue: Zuiganji, Entonji, Zuiganji approach, and Sanseido, Matsushima Fee: Zuiganji and Entsuji [common admission ticket] 2,000 yen 　　　 Zuiganji and Entsuji [single ticket] 1,300 yen each In 2023, a special tour with the Date Busyoutai and a mini-concert will be held on the Entsuji temple grounds. In addition, a "Matsushima Bay Twilight Cruise" by Matsushima Island Tour Boat will be available during the festival period. We hope you have a chance to visit Entsuin Temple and enjoy the fantastic autumn leaves as shown in the video. The Rose Garden at Entsuin Temple Photo：The garden of Entsuin Temple Entsuin Temple is famous not only for its autumn foliage but also for its roses, and is also known as "Bara-ji" or "Rose Temple." The origin of this name is that the oldest Western roses in Japan were brought back by Hasekura Tsunenaga of the Date Clan, who traveled to Europe as an envoy during the Keicho Mission to Europe. As a symbol of his achievement, Entsuin Temple created a garden mainly composed of roses. In addition, roses are painted on the zushi (minature shrine) of the inner mausoleum, which is also designated as an Important Cultural Property. Entsuin Temple is a baroque garden born from a fusion of Buddhism and Christianity. The best time to see the roses is in early June, when the roses in the rose garden are in full bloom. However, bloom times vary according to the variety of rose. Traditional Prayer Bead Making Experiences and More! At Entsuin Temple, which is famous for its matchmaking activities, visitors can try their hand at making their own original Buddhist prayer beads. Buddhist prayer beads, called Juzu (数珠) in Japanese, are important Buddhist ritual objects that are worn during funerals, memorial services, visits to graves, and other occasions when one prays to Buddha. It's said that just by holding them, one can rid themself of misfortune and gain peace and tranquility. In the bead making experience, participants can choose their favorite beads and make their own unique prayer beads. The beads are made of natural stone, plastic, and glass, all of which are used to pray and express gratitude to the deity of Entsuin Temple. The process takes 20 minutes, is relatively simple, and does not require an appointment. Entsuin Temple also has its own original shuin stamp books. All of these books are also used to pray and make offerings of gratitude to the main deity of Entsuin temple. By depositing your shuin stamp book at the entrance before visiting the temple, you can receive a shuin stamp when visiting. Summary of Autumn at Entsuin Temple Photo：Entsuin Temple, Matsushima, Miyagi Entsuin Temple is a place where visitors can enjoy various gardens, autumn leaves, Buddhism, and bead-making workshops in a relaxing atmosphere with lots of nature and rich history. It's a sightseeing spot with many attractions. In particular, the beautiful autumn foliage illumination, which can be viewed for a limited time only, is great for taking photos, and looks great on Instagram too! Come and see it for yourself! ◆Entsuin Temple◆ 【Address】Entsuin, Chonai-67 Matsushima, Miyagi District, Miyagi 981-0213 【Telephone】022-354-3206 【Hours】(Open all year round) Weekdays 9:00 AM - 3:30 PM Weekends & Holidays 9:00 AM - 4:00 PM 【Admission Fee】Adults 300 yen, High school students 150 yen, Children (junior high and elementary school students) 100 yen ※The bead-making experience has a separate fee 【Access】 Train: A 5-minute walk from JR Matsushima-kaigan Station on the Senseki Line. A 20-minute walk from JR Matsushima Station on the Tohoku Line Car: A 5-minute drive from the Matsushima-kaigan IC on the Sanriku Expressway via Route 45 【Parking】Please use the prefectural parking lot on National Route 45. 【TripAdvisor】Entsuin Temple https://www.tripadvisor.jp/Attraction_Review-g319095-d319868-Reviews-Entsu_in_Temple-Matsushima_machi_Miyagi_gun_Miyagi_Prefecture_Tohoku.html

Dinosaur Fossils Discovered on Koshiki Island We would like to introduce the video "Dinosaur fossil discovered on the coast of Koshiki Island! The Nippon Foundation Umitonihon PROJECT in Kagoshima 2018 #09（甑島の海辺で恐竜の化石発見！ 日本財団 海と日本PROJECT in 鹿児島 2018 #09）". The National Museum of Nature and Science (国立科学博物館, kokuritsukagakuhakubutsukan) and Sendai city, Kagoshima prefecture in the Japan's Kyushu region, announced the discovery of a 70 cm long dinosaur fossil on Koshiki Island. At 0:54 in the video you can see the surprised yet delighted reaction of Miyake Yuka, a staff member at the Koshiki Museum on Shimokoshiki Island (下甑島, shimokoshikishima). Exactly what kind of fossil did they find? Koshiki Island, a Sightseeing Spot Steeped in History Koshiki Island is comprised of a chain of islands in the East China sea that lay to the west of Satsumasendai city in Kagoshima prefecture. It is a place abundant with nature and outstanding towering cliffs that rise 200 meters above the ocean floor. Kamikoshiki Island, Nakakoshiki Island (中甑島, nakakoshikishima) and Shimokoshiki Island make up the Koshiki Archipelago (甑列島, koshikirettou), a place steeped in ancient history which was formed from several uninhabited islands. The cliff shown at the opening of the video is composed of stratum that was formed from the Cretaceous period to the Paleogene period. The oldest stratum on the island dates back 80 million years. More About the Dinosaur Fossil Found on Koshiki Island Koshiki Island is attracting a lot of attention as dinosaur fossils are being discovered one after another. The joint research team from Satsumasendai city and Kumamoto University (熊本大学, kumamotodaigaku) discovered the 70 cm long dinosaur fossil in 2016, and it is the largest fossil found to date. You can see the fossil and an interview with Komatsu Toshifumi (assistant professor of the cutting edge science research department at Kumamoto University) from 1:20 in the video. You can also hear the surprised reactions of the other research team members. About the Dinosaur Research From 3:36 in the video, you can hear more about the fossil of an herbivorous dinosaur from the Ceratopsidae family (the first in Japan and third in Asia to be discovered) that was found in 2012. The ribs and teeth from a carnivorous dinosaur, part of the root of a tooth from a ceratopsian dinosaur, ammonites and other reptile fossils have also been discovered here. You can also take a look at how fossil cleaning is performed from 3:58 in the video. You can see how excited the staff member is to have the opportunity to clean such a large fossil. A year and a half after being discovered, it had become clearer what kind of dinosaur fossil they had found. The fossil dates back 70 million years and is from the femur of an herbivorous dinosaur of the Hadrosauridae family. The dinosaur is estimated to have been over 10 meters tall. You can see an artist's reconstruction of the dinosaur from 5:07 in the video. Dinosaur Fossils on Koshiki Island: Summary It is estimated that this fossil was from a dinosaur that lived close to the time of the extinction of the dinosaurs. It is thought that this fossil will become a useful resource to help us learn more about the extinction of the dinosaurs. There are still many mysteries surrounding the extinction of the dinosaurs. The continued work performed by researchers around the world is sure to uncover more information on these dinosaur fossils. In Koshiki museum's preparation room, not only can you see this ancient dinosaur fossil up close, but you also have chance to take part in many events such as a dinosaur fossil excavation tour. We highly recommend a visit to Koshiki museum to any dinosaur fans! 【Official Website】Koshiki Island Tourist Bureau's official website https://satsumasendai.gr.jp/koshiki-sight-seeing/

Kojima's "Monkey Island" This is a video that introduces "Monkey Island" on Kojima, a place where monkey's have formed their own unique culture. Kojima is an island approximately 200 meters offshore from the Ishinami coast in Kushima City, Miyazaki Prefecture, in Japan's Kyushu region. It is known as a research site for Japanese macaques along with the Takasakiyama Natural Zoological Garden in Oita Prefecture. Currently, the entirety of Kojima has been designated "Nichinan Kaigan National Park" and "Kojima Wild Monkey Habitat," and is the subject of conservation and research activities. The Natural Scenery of Kojima Photo：Kojima (Monkey Island), Miyazaki Prefecture Kojima is famous as "Monkey Island," but other animals, such as raccoon dogs, hares, and bats also live there. It's also known that there are birds, such as warblers, white-eyes, black-eyes, and blue rock thrush living on the island as well. Kojima is rich in nature with 196 species of plants from 78 families having been confirmed on the island, including subtropical plants. There are around 250 species of subtropical plant communities in the Ishinami Coastal Forest. It has also been designated a national natural monument as "a representative of the coastal and shaji plant communities" and is protected by the Law for the Protection of Cultural Properties. The Research on the Kojima Monkeys Introduced in the Video Photo：Japanese macaques washing potatoes on Kojima Island, Miyazaki Kojima is an uninhabited island, but there is a primate research facility of Kyoto University on the island, and researchers are stationed there. It is said that a group of 90 monkeys were living on Kojima during the Taisho period (1912-1926), but after the Pacific War, the number of monkeys dropped sharply to just nine. After that, the population began to slowly recover, and now around 100 monkeys live on the island. The monkeys on Kojima perform unique cultural activities, such as washing potatoes and walking on two legs, so they're an attractive object of study. Access to Kojima's Monkey Island There is a ferry from Ishinami Beach to Kojima by reservation only, but it's also possible to cross over to the island on foot at low tide. However, Kojima is the subject of research, and the entry and exit of the island is restricted throughout the island area, so be careful. Ishinami beach on the opposite bank is popular for its Instagram-worthy scenery, which has been selected as one of the top 100 beaches in Japan, and you can enjoy sightseeing, fishing, and swimming here as well. Summary of Kojima and Monkey Island Photo：Kojima, Miyazaki Prefecture The monkeys on Kojima, introduced in the video, are attracting the attention of researchers all over Japan because of their unique culture and behavior. Access to Kojima is restricted, so if you want to learn more about the behavior of these interesting monkeys, be sure to take a look at the video! 【Tripadvisor】Kojima https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g1023427-d13205071-Reviews-Kojima_Island-Kushima_Miyazaki_Prefecture_Kyushu.html

Introducing Inkan Carving This video, titled "「TOKYO匠の技」技能継承動画「印章彫刻熟練技能編」," was created by "東京都 Tokyo Metropolitan Government." There are many "craftsmen" in all sorts of fields in Japan. Inkan makers, too, are known as craftsmen. The inkans carved by these craftsmen, using skills that were passed down to them and refined over the years, are truly works of art. This article will introduce the craft of carving inkan alongside the video. What Is Inkan Carving? Source :YouTube screenshot Inkan carving is the art of making the inkan used by companies and people every day in Japan. Inkan craftsmen are known as "insho chokoku ginoshi" (印章彫刻技能士), which roughly translates to "Seal Carving Technician." There is a Grade 1 and Grade 2 ranking for this titled. The certification exam is held once a year. Applicants are required to pass both an academic and practical examination before they are officially certified. In order to make a living as a craftsman, it's necessary to continuously accumulate knowledge about inkan. Although machine carving is now the norm, hand-carved inkan are still bought and sold today. In the video, the Grade 1-ranked Seal Carving Technician Tomonari Sanada (眞田智成) shows us how an inkan is made. If you’re interested in Japan’s inkan culture, definitely check out the video. Below is an overview of the video. Introduction of the carving tools and materials used for the inkan ↓ The process of creating an inkan ↓ Making a seal with the newly-crafted inkan This process can be viewed from 1:03 in the video. Through this nearly 40 minute video, you'll gain an appreciation for the skills of the inkan craftsmen. Summary of Inkan Carving Source :YouTube screenshot The world of inkan carving has many unseen depths and layers, and a high level of skill is required of the craftsmen. This video is a great introduction to the world of inkan carving. When visiting Japan, besides enjoying the gorgeous scenery and tasting delicious food such as sushi, why not experience Japanese culture and traditional crafts as well? Besides inkan, there are many other traditional crafts in Japan, giving you plenty of things to discover. In addition, hanko and inkan are popular souvenirs for foreigners as well. These are easily available through online stores, so consider checking them out!

Introducing Osaka Shinsekai & the Tsutenkaku Area! This time, we will introduce a video called "大阪 新世界&通天閣周辺の夜景 Osaka Shinsekai & Tsutenkaku Tower Nightscape". If you want to enjoy night views of famous spots when you travel in Japan and want to walk in the shimmering lights of Japan at night, we recommend sightseeing around Osaka Shinsekai and Tsutenkaku where you can enjoy the beautiful scenery. In this article, we will introduce some nice videos and recommended spots at Osaka Shinsekai and Tsutenkaku. What Kind of Places Are Shinsekai and Tsutenkaku? Photo：Tsutenkaku You can see Tsutenkaku from 0:17 in the video, which is a historic tower that was built in Meiji 45 (1912) with the Eiffel Tower in Paris as a model. In this area, the 5th National Industrial Expo was held in 1903, and more than 5 million people visited. Osaka Shinsekai was created as a new attraction in Osaka at the site of the exposition. At night, the Osaka Shinsekai Tsutenkaku area is colored with a brilliant neon nightscape, giving you a much different view from the daytime. A flag for advertising may be placed on the top of the 108m high Tsutenkaku tower, so check it out. Recommended Places to See in the Osaka Shinsekai Tsutenkaku Area Photo：Tsutenkaku The night view of Osaka Shinsekai's slightly retro and lively cityscape looks outstanding on Instagram. You can experience old-fashioned shooting games and retro games at the "Modern Amusement Hall" and "Game Center Kasuga Amusement Hall" in Jean-Jean Yokocho. Nearby attractions are Tennoji Park, Tennoji Zoo, Hihokan, the world's hot spring Spa World, and movie theaters as well. The puffer lanterns introduced at 0:28 in the video and the statue of Billiken from 1:41 are also famous attractions in Osaka. Excellent Gourmet Foods in the Osaka Shinsekai and Tsutenkaku Areas Source :YouTube screenshot Osaka, known as the “eating-down town”, has a lot of excellent local gourmet food. Takoyaki, okonomiyaki, and kushikatsu, known as "banning the sauce twice," are considered soul foods in Osaka. In addition, gourmet foods such as hele katsu sandwiches, doyaki, and kasu udon are also popular. You can also try the Tsutenkaku parfait that can be eaten at the Tsutenkaku Observatory. Enjoy the delicious gourmet food around Osaka Shinsekai Tsutenkaku Hondori! Osaka Shinsekai & Tsutenkaku Night View Introductory Video Summary Source :YouTube screenshot Osaka is a tourist spot that is popular among both domestic and foreign tourists. In particular, Tsutenkaku tower, which is loved as the symbol of Osaka, is a night view spot that you should definitely visit if you're planning on visiting Japan. In the video, you can see the glittering neon lights and Tsutenkaku lighting up the cityscape of Osaka. If you look at this video, you'll definitely want to go see the gorgeous lights of Osaka at night! 【Official Website】Shinsekai | OSAKA-INFO https://osaka-info.jp/en/page/shinsekai 【Official Website】Tsutenkaku ｜ Observatory / Tower ｜ Recommended popular sightseeing spots in Osaka (Tennoji / Abeno / Shinsekai area) https://www.tsutenkaku.co.jp/ 【Tripadvisor】Shinsekai https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g298566-d1407290-Reviews-Shinsekai-Osaka_Osaka_Prefecture_Kinki.html

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

Video Introduction of "Fujiya Ryokan" in Yugawara, Ashigarakami-gun, Kanagawa Prefecture This video, titled " Fujiya Ryokan [Selected Lodgings to Visit on Weekends]" (富士屋旅館【週末に訪れたくなる厳選宿】), was uploaded by "Relux Lodging Diary" (Relux宿日記). Fujiya Ryokan, featured in the video, is a popular long-established hot spring inn located in Yugawara, Kanagawa, in Japan's Kanto region, near Hakone. The hot springs and scenic beauty of the area between Yugawara and Hakone have a long history that is mentioned in ancient texts, such as the Manyoshu. Fujiya Ryokan already had a predecessor building in the late Edo period (around 1750-1860 AD), and the oldest building today, the Old Building, was built in 1923. The oldest building, the "Old Building" (旧館, Kyuu-kan) was built in 1923, making it a building with nearly 100 years of history. The New Building, the Old Building, and Rakumiso, all of which have equally elegant guest rooms, are connected by a long corridor that leads to the large bathhouse, allowing visitors to enjoy a stroll through the Japanese garden before a relaxing bath. The Old Building, the (as its name implies) oldest building at the inn, provides guests with a stylish and tranquil space with a Taisho-modern taste of the time inherited through the use of fine 13.68-centimeter square pillars made of Japanese cypress and glass doors with kumiko panels. The New Building is a high-quality guest room that provides a conscious blend of Japanese and Western styles while maintaining the retro feel of the Showa period. The guest rooms can be viewed at 0:43 in the video. The History of Fujiya Ryokan in Yugawara, Kanagawa Source :YouTube screenshot According to "Guide to Yugawara" (湯河原案内, yugawara an'nai) published in 1918, Fujiya Ryokan started its business as a hot spring inn in 1920, and was called "Juhoen" at the time. After crossing the long bridge over the Fujiki River, you'll see a vast site lined with towers and annexes, and it is introduced as a famous ryokan where you can enjoy nature and flowers in every season. The large bath is a hot spring cypress bath with a weak saline solution (weak alkalinity), and is considered a beauty spring because its pH is close to that of human skin. You can see the large bath at 2:39 of the video. Of course, visitors can also enjoy the hot spring water in the indoor baths of their guest room. Fujiya Ryokan has been loved by many Japanese literary figures, including Doppo Kunikida, Natsume Soseki, Yosano Akiko, and Junichiro Tanizaki. Gourmet Dining at Fujiya Ryokan in Yugawara, Kanagawa Source :YouTube screenshot When you think of hot spring inns, besides the hot springs and luxurious rooms, if there's anything you don't want to miss out on, it's the delicious cuisine they serve. Fujiya Ryokan's restaurant, Hyorokutei, offers dishes that will make even the most seasoned gourmet's taste buds sing. The name "Hyorokutei" comes from the traditional good omen for good health - Gourds (Hyotan in Japanese). It combines the words "gourd" (Hyo)tan, six (roku), and "restaurant" (tei). (※Gourds have long been a good luck charm for good health in Japan) Savor the mouthwatering fish dishes made with a wide variety of Higashi-Izu seafood from Sagami Bay, as well as premium ingredients, such as Japanese black beef, locally harvested game dishes, and domestic eel. We also recommend the "dancing icefish," which you can see in the video at 2:18, served with ginger vinegar, a specialty of Yugawara. If you're too busy for an overnight stay, Fujiya Ryokan's one-day hot spring and gourmet plan is a great option. At Hyorokutei, even on a day trip, you can enjoy sumptuous kaiseki cuisine, shabu-shabu made with local sea bream, charcoal-grilled meat, and other delectable dishes. Summary of Fujiya Ryokan in Yugawara, Kanagawa Source :YouTube screenshot What did you think? Fujiya Ryokan, introduced in the video, has been chosen by foreign tourists as one of the best inns in Japan. Once you stay there, it's almost inevitable that you'll become a repeat guest! Enjoy hospitality and luxury that you can only find in Japan. For more information on accommodations and access, please visit the official website of Fujiya Ryokan. 【Official Website】Fujiya Ryokan Yugawara https://fujiyaryokan.jp/ 【TripAdvisor】Fujiya Ryokan https://www.tripadvisor.com/Hotel_Review-g1121143-d16695943-Reviews-Fujiya_Ryokan-Yugawara_machi_Ashigarashimo_gun_Kanagawa_Prefecture_Kanto.html

Introducing a round-trip mountain climbing video from Okuhotaka to Uma no Uma no Uta, spanning Nagano and Gifu Prefectures. This video, titled "Mt. Oku-Hotaka to Gendarmes｜Route Change After a Rockslide｜Video of a Detailed Round Trip of Uma no Se" (奥穂高からジャンダルム 滑落みて馬の背ピストンへ変更 馬の背詳細往復動画), was uploaded by "Biryu Jr." Mt. Oku-Hotaka Photo：The Hotaka mountain range from Mt. Norikura Mt. Oku-Hotaka is the main mountain of the Hotaka Mountain Range, which straddles Nagano and Gifu prefectures in the Hida Mountain Range of Chubu-Sangaku National Park in the southern part of Japan's Northern Alps. At 3,190 meters above sea level, it is the highest peak in the Northern Alps and the third highest in Japan after Mt. Fuji and Mt. Kita. Mt. Oku-Hotaka (奥穂高岳), Mt. Karasawa (涸沢岳), Kita-Hotaka (北穂高岳), Mae-Hotaka (前穂高岳), Nishi-Hotaka (西穂高岳), and Mt. Myojin (明神岳), are collectively referred to as Mt. Hotaka. It is said that the origin of the mountain's name comes from a legend that a god named Hotakami-no-Mikoto descended to the summit of Mt. Oku-Hotaka. Even today, the mountain is revered as a sacred mountain by local people, who visit and climb it to pray. The first person to summit Mt. Oku-Hotaka was surveyor Gunji Abe in 1906. With its challenging routes, powerful rocky ridges, and panoramic views from the ridge, Mt. Hotaka continues to attract many climbers to this day. The Geological Features of Mt. Oku-Hotaka Here, we'll take a look at the geological features of Mt. Oku-Hotaka ・Volcanic Terrain Mt. Hotaka, including Mt. Oku-Hotaka, is formed mainly of dacitic ignimbrite called "Hotaka andesite." This rock was formed by pyroclastic flows during an eruption approximately 1.75 million years ago, and was uplifted 2,000m over a period of 1 million years after a large-scale eruption. ・Glacial Landforms Many glacial landforms have been observed on Mount Hotaka. Glacial landforms are landforms created by glaciers that have accumulated soil, sand, rocks, etc., while carving away the land below. Mt. Oku-Hotaka – Uma no Se Photo：Uma no Se on Mt. Oku-Hotaka Mt. Okuhotaka, a famous mountain climbing spot, has a narrow ridge called "Uma no Se" (horse's back), which is steep and features cliffs on both sides. Because of how steep it is, it's also a dangerous place where falling accidents occur frequently. The slopes, which look like a combination of rubble, require extreme caution in order to prevent accidents. In the video, you can see how they decide not go to Gendarme (a rocky summit between Mt. Oku-Hotaka and Mt. Nishi-Hotaka), and instead decide to descend via Uma no Se. It's as realistic as if you were there yourself. The sound of the wind, the hands gripping the rocks, the shadows of climbers moving toward the spectacular views... the power of these scenes draws you in. [Video] 5:44 - Advancing Along Uma no Se Mt. Oku-Hotaka – Routes and Difficulties Here are the routes of Mt. Oku-Hotaka according to difficulty level: ・Kamikochi Course (上高地コース) - The recommended route for beginners Starting from Kamikochi Bus Center, the most common route is [Myojin (明神) - Tokusawa (徳沢) - Yoko (横尾) - Hontanibashi (本谷橋) - Karasawa (涸沢) - Mt. Hotaka Hut (穂高岳山荘, Hotakadake Sanso), Mt. Oku-Hotaka]. Your itinerary should be arranged according to your physical fitness. It is common to stay overnight during the climb. ・Kenkyakusha-Muke Course (健脚者向けコース) The rough route is [Shin Hotaka Onsen (新穂高温泉) - Shirade Hut Ruins (白出小屋跡) - Mt. Hotaka Hut (穂高岳山荘), Mt. Oku-Hotaka]. The trailhead is at Shin Hotaka Onsen. Since there are some points on the ascent where it's easy to make a mistake on the route, it's recommended that you be accompanied by an experienced climber. Furthermore, since route conditions change according to lingering snowfall, it's necessary to check trail conditions ahead of time. ・Advanced Climbing Course (熟練・上級者向けコース) The rough route is [Kamikochi Bus Terminal (上高地バスターミナル) - Yoko (横尾) - Yarisawa Lodge (槍沢ロッジ) - Kakusei Hutte (殺生ヒュッテ) - Yarigatake Hut (槍ヶ岳山荘) - Minamidake Hut (南岳小屋) - Kitahotaka Hut - Mt. Kitahotaka Hut (北穂高小屋) - Karasawa Hut (涸沢岳) - Mt. Hotaka Hut (穂高岳山荘)]. The ridge course from Yarigatake continues through rocky terrain with considerable height differences. Normally, three nights are required for this route, and extreme caution is needed as there are many steep sections. Summary of Mt. Oku-Hotaka Photo：Mt. Oku-Hotaka In this article. we introduced one of the three tallest peaks in Japan, Mt. Oku-Hotaka, and Uma no Se. Although there are dangers, such as slips and falling rocks, Mt. Oku-Hotaka is a thrilling mountaineering experience that features spectacular views of nature that attracts many climbers. Although the climb is not without its dangers, the view from the summit and the thrill of climbing over Uma no Se is said to be exceptional. If you wish to take on this challenge, please do your research and go fully prepared. That being said, if you're just here to enjoy some of the views, hopefully the video is enough for you. 【TripAdvisor】Mt. Oku-Hotaka https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g298102-d7242442-Reviews-Mt_Okuhotaka-Chubu.html

Kurume Gasuri - A Traditional Craft of Fukuoka Prefecture? This video, titled "Handicraft TEWAZA "Kurume Gasuri" kurume pongee" (手技TEWAZA「久留米絣」kurume pongee／伝統工芸 青山スクエア Japan traditional crafts Aoyama Square), was released by "JAPAN TRADITIONAL CRAFTS AOYAMA SQUARE" (伝統工芸 青山スクエア), a channel that features introductions to many of Japan's traditional crafts. This video shows how simple yet geometric and beautiful Kasuri patterned kimono are created by two Kurume Gasuri craftsmen in a tranquil environment. Kurume Gasuri - A Traditional Japanese Craft With Beautiful Patterns Photo：Working at Kurume Gasuri in Fukuoka Prefecture Few people are familiar with the Kurume Gasuri fabric manufactured in the Chikugo region (筑後地方) of southern Fukuoka Prefecture in Japan's Kyushu region (九州地方). Kurume Gasuri is a weaving technique said to have been invented by a 12-year-old girl at the beginning of the 19th century. She was apparently inspired by the threads of old cotton scraps that had become faded. Nowadays, it's known as one of the three major Kasuri in Japan, alongside Iyo Kasuri, made in Matsuyama (松山市) in Ehime Prefecture (愛媛県) in Japan's Shikoku region (四国地方), and Bingo Kasuri, made in Fukuyama (福山市) in Hiroshima Prefecture (広島県). The craft has been designated an Important Intangible Cultural Property of Japan. Since Kurume Gasuri is made of cotton Kasuri, it is gentle to the touch and can be washed. This makes it suitable not only for kimonos, but also for clothing, such as dresses and accessories, and even face masks. Unlike silk kimonos, Kasuri fabrics were used for everyday clothing, such as monpe (a kind of Hakama casual wear) until after the war. The Process of Making Kurume Gasuri, a Traditional Craft of Southern Fukuoka Photo：Kurume Gasuri Yarn, Fukuoka, Japan Let's take a look at how hand-loomed Kurume Gasuri are made by two designers/craftsmen from the Kurume Gasuri brand "GIEMON." Each step can be seen in the video. ・Eito Kaki - (video 0:40~) Eito is the thread that will become the "pattern" when woven. The thread that will become the Eito is fixed, and the designer carefully inks it by hand according to the design. ・Kukuri - (Video 1:15-) This is an important process that involves tying a string to the Eito so that a pattern remains after dyeing it. ・Some - (Video 1:43~) Generally, indigo dye is used. The indigo dyeing process makes the cotton fabric more resistant to insects and odors. It also increases the strength of the fabric. ・Kasuri Toki - (Video 2:39-) This steps involves untying the bundle to check if the pattern stands out properly. It's an exciting moment. ・Ori - (Video 3:10~) This is the process of weaving the finished yarn into a Tanmono. A Tanmono is a roll of kimono fabric, and a Kijaku (standard length of material used in a kimono) has a weaving width of about 38cm. The History of Kurume Gasuri, a Traditional Craft of Southern Fukuoka The 12-year-old girl who invented the Kurume Gasuri is named Den Inoue. She was born in Kurume-Torihoka, Chikugo-no-Kuni (present-day Kurume (久留米市), Fukuoka). It's theorized that the technique of "Kasuri," the basic pattern of cotton fabric, was introduced to Kyushu and Shikoku via the Ryukyu Islands. This video features the indigo-dyed hand weaving of Kurume Gasuri, but there are other styles, such as Aizome Kasuri, Tateyoko-Kasuri, Yoko-Kasuri, Dasshoku-Kasuri, Tsumami Zome, and Tate-Kasuri. Summary of Kurume Gasuri, a Traditional Craft of Southern Fukuoka Photo：Kurume Gasuri, Fukuoka Prefecture It's said that the charm of the Aizome Kurume Gasuri is its beautiful patterns and the texture that becomes more profound the more you wear it. It can be washed at home, and the more you wash it, the softer it becomes and it also conforms to your skin. This is a classic piece of traditional craftwork, yet one that you will want to use everyday. GIEMON (儀右衛門), featured in this article, sells Kurume Gasuri products online. If you're interested, be sure to check out their official website.

Baikamo Blooming on the Takimi River in Hyogo Prefecture: Video Introduction This video, titled "Baikamo｜A Flower Only Found in Japan [Shinonsen] 4K" (バイカモ　日本固有種 【新温泉町】4k), was uploaded by "e production.com" (e映像制作.com). Have you ever heard of the plant baikamo? In this article, we'll introduce an underwater flower that blooms in the Takimi River in Shinonsen, Hyogo. Be sure to check out the video to see the beautiful baikamo blooming in the clear stream. Baikamo – A Look at the Flower Blooming on the Takimi River in Hyogo, Japan Source :YouTube screenshot From the beginning of the video, you can see baikamo growing as birds chirp and the gentle sound of the river plays in the background. The video is very striking, as if it were shot from a bird's eye view. The location shown in the video is Baikamo Park. There are not many areas in Japan where baikamo can be found in such abundance. Baikamo is a plant that grows in tall mountains where the water is very cold, so it's rare to see it growing in clusters. Unfortunately, the baikamo colony on the Takimi River began to shrink in size around 2017, and as of 2022, not many baikamo can be seen anymore. Baikamo, a Flower that Blooms Under Water Photo：Baikamo Baikamo is a species endemic to Japan. The baikamo, which blooms along the Takimi River in Shinonsen, belongs to the buttercup family, Ranunculaceae, and has the scientific name of Ranunculus Kazusensis Makino. In floriography (the language of flowers) its meaning is "Happiness will come." Just as the language of flowers suggests, the small, pretty flowers blooming on the surface of the water make people happy just by looking at them. There is also a type of baikamo called ginkgo baikamo, which can be seen in some areas of Japan. This flower blooms from early summer to early fall, with white flowers 1-2 cm in diameter. The flowers resemble plum blossoms, and because of this, baikamo is often written with the kanji 梅花藻 (梅, Bai "Plum"; 花 ka "Flower"; 藻 mo "Algae"). It's a perennial flower that grows underwater and is characterized by its evergreen nature. It is also edible as a wild plant. Where Can Baikamo Be Found in Japan? Photo：The Jizo River, Awai, Shiga The baikamo featured in this video can be seen in Japan's Kinki region, such as the Jizo River in Awai, Shiga, and Kamikawa, Hyogo. Other locations include Echizen, Fukui; Mishima Baikamo Park (三島梅花藻公園), Shizuoka; Chokeiji Temple (長慶寺) in Tsuru, Yamanashi; and the Shimizu River in Konan, Fukushima. There is also a baikamo colony in Eniwa, Hokkaido. Summary of Baikamo, an Aquatic Plant That Blooms Only in Clear Streams Baikamo is an aquatic plant that blooms only in clear streams rich in nature. It's a pity that the number of baikamo has been decreasing due to various climate and environmental changes. However, there is good news from the Shimizu River in Tamba, Hyogo. The number of baikamo had been rapidly decreasing due to the decrease in water flow caused by the proliferation of weeds, but thanks to preservation activities by local residents, the baikamo population has been restored. It would be nice to see baikamo blooming beautifully again in the Takimi River like in the video. 【TripAdvisor】Baikamo Park https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g1121310-d8368832-Reviews-Baikamo_Park-Shinonsen_cho_Mikata_gun_Hyogo_Prefecture_Kinki.html

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

A Look at Japan's Currency Manufacturing Technology This video, titled "Japanese Currency Manufacturing Technology" (日本の貨幣製造技術), was released by "Japan Video Topics - 日本語". Japanese currency is created in accordance with the "Acts on Currency Units and Issuance of Coinage" (通貨の単位及び貨幣の発行等に関する法律). Currently, 6 types of coins and 4 types of banknotes issued by the Bank of Japan are in circulation, and 3 billion banknotes are printed every year. The History and Unique Characteristics of Japanese Currency Source :YouTube screenshot Today's Japanese banknotes are made through a method in which design and engraving specialists create the original designs with a brush, design a copper plate similar to a woodblock print and it is then printed by the National Printing Bureau. You can see the production process of these banknotes from 0:48 in the video. Throughout the long history of Japan, such as the Showa and Heisei periods, coinage technology of has dramatically improved. The value of Japanese coin manufacturing technology is recognized around the world, and in recent years, coin manufacturing has become a typical Japanese culture, with some people being asked to manufacture foreign coins as well. The Unique Ingenuity Incorporated Into Japanese Currency Source :YouTube screenshot Japanese banknotes and silver coins are actually packed with many innovations that bring together the advanced technology of traditional Japanese manufacturing. For example, Japanese bills have a watermark that makes a portrait appear when held over light. Ink is used for banknotes to create bumps when printing, so even blind people can touch the banknote and know what type it is. In addition, advanced anti-counterfeiting technology is used for Japanese floral patterns, such as the use of "Bank of Japan" micro-lettering, which cannot be color-copied, and "diagonal jaggedness" on the sides of the coins. Other advanced technologies such as "latent imaging," "fine lining," and "fine dotting," are also used in Japanese currency manufacturing. This amazing technology has been praised around the world for its ability to check the latent images and holograms of the 10,000-yen bill and the portraits and vertical bars of the 1,000-yen bill by touching, tilting, or holding them up to light. Summary of Japan's Currency Manufacturing Photo：Japanese money Japan's coinage is not something that can be seen often, so be sure to check it out if you still haven't yet! In Japan, the notes are scheduled to change in 2024, so keep an eye out for the new designs! In addition, commemorative coins are likely to be issued at events, such as the Olympics, so be sure to get one if you visit!

Lake Biwa - Japan's Largest Lake This is the video, titled "Rainbow, Beautiful SHIGA — Biwa Lake, Shiga," introduces the famous tourist spot Lake Biwa, the largest freshwater lake in Japan, located in Shiga prefecture (滋賀県). The video was produced by "Rainbow, Beautiful, SHIGA — Shiga, Lake Biwa" (虹色Beautiful,SHIGAー滋賀・びわ湖). Lake Biwa in Otsu City (大津市), Shiga, in Japan's Kansai region, is the largest lake in Japan, with a surface area of 669.26 km² and a water storage capacity of 27.5 km³. It takes up approximately one-sixth of the area of Shiga Prefecture, and boasts an overwhelmingly large area and volume. It's famous not only in Japan, but around the world. It is one of only 20 ancient lakes in the world, and the fourth oldest among them. At Lake Biwa, there's Shirahige Shrine with its large Torii gate built over Lake Biwa, as seen at 0:27 in the video. This is a famous sightseeing spot in Shiga Prefecture. The beauty of Lake Biwa, which shows a different face in the daytime, evening, and at night, can be seen throughout the video. From the beginning of the film, you can see those different faces, such as the sun setting in the evening, the snow-covered surface of the lake at 1:27, and the surface of the lake illuminated by a starry sky at 2:05. Watching this video is sure to have you excited to see the beautiful scenery at Lake Biwa. Below, we'll give you information on some of the fun sites you can enjoy sightseeing around this beautiful lake. Sightseeing Around Lake Biwa Photo：Biwako Terrace Lake Biwa is famous as Japan's largest lake in Shiga Prefecture, and many people come here for sightseeing every day. Let us introduce you to some of the top tourist attractions at Lake Biwa, the symbol of Shiga Prefecture, along with some of its most popular spots that are counted under the Eight Views of Lake Biwa. ① BIWAKO VALLEY The majestic nature of BIWAKO VALLEY is considered as one of the top resort spots, not only in Shiga Prefecture, but in the Kansai region as a whole. This is one of the most famous sightseeing spots in Japan where you can enjoy the different seasons. You can enjoy zip lines from spring to autumn, which are very popular among young people, and in winter it becomes a ski resort. Recently, "Biwako Terrace" has been added to BIWAKO VALLEY, so you can fully enjoy the magnificent scenery and nature. ② SHIGA LAKE BIWA MUSEUM Shiga Prefectural Lake Biwa Museum, also known as, "Biwa-Haku" (Biwa Expo), was established in Shiga Prefecture in 1996. For an in-depth look at the history of Lake Biwa and its inhabitants, and to learn more about the lake, be sure to stop by Shiga Prefectural Lake Biwa Museum. Photo：Karasaki Shrine ③Karasaki Shrine Karasaki Shrine is another pride of Shiga Prefecture. Aside from its blessings, the fireworks display held in summer is especially popular. The dedication of Tezutsu Hanabi (Handheld Fireworks) at the end of the festival is an amazing sight, and many people visit the Shrine just to see the festival. ④Ogoto Onsen (Hot spring) If you're looking for accommodations during your trip, Ogoto Onsen is the place to stay. Not only can you enjoy gourmet cuisine from all four seasons of Shiga Prefecture, the view of Lake Biwa while relaxing in the open-air hot springs is a perfect way to end your trip. Walking around Hikone Jōkamachi (Hikone Castle Town) and Ōmihachiman (近江八幡), taking a stroll along Lake Biwa, hiking in the Suzuka Mountains (鈴鹿山脈), and taking a tour of Lake Biwa on a steamship and a cruise ship are all activities we highly recommend. You can also try to find your own hidden gem around the lake. Lake Biwa Introduction Summary Photo：Beautiful blue sky and Lake Biwa This concludes the introduction to Lake Biwa, one of Japan's most famous tourist attractions. If you're interested in the stunning scenery of Lake Biwa after seeing this video and reading this article, we recommend visiting the lake and seeing it for yourself. In addition to these sites, there are many other sightseeing spots around Otsu City, Shiga Prefecture. If you're looking for a place to visit, considering dropping by Lake Biwa! 【Official Website】Shiga Sightseeing Information [SHIGA Tourism Official Website] We Know Everything About Lake Biwa! https://en.biwako-visitors.jp/ 【Tripadvisor】Lake Biwa https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g298201-d1424390-Reviews-Lake_Biwa-Shiga_Prefecture_Kinki.html

伊勢志摩サミットで各国首脳を出迎えた「志摩観光ホテル」紹介動画について こちらの動画は「都ホテルズ＆リゾーツ/Miyako Hotels&Resorts」が公開した「【公式】◆志摩観光ホテル　ー 志摩時間へようこそ。ー」です。 美し国、伊勢。 ここに世界各国から愛されるホテル「志摩観光ホテル」は2016年にはG7伊勢志摩サミットが行われ、日本国内だけでなく世界からも注目を集めています。 日本を代表する迎賓館伊勢志摩の老舗ホテル。 クラシックホテルで過ごす美し国伊勢志摩の魅力をご紹介しましょう。 伊勢志摩サミットで各国首脳を出迎えた「志摩観光ホテル」とは 三重県志摩市にある志摩観光ホテルの基本情報をご紹介しましょう。 2016年にはG7伊勢志摩サミットが開かれ、世界各国の賓客を極上のおもてなしをしました。 もともと志摩観光ホテルは、真珠の養殖が盛んな三重県賢島（かしこじま）に真珠を買い付けに訪れる外国人向けに1951年誕生しました。 ホテルの設計を担当したのは日本の建築家村野藤吾氏です。 伊勢志摩サミットで各国首脳を出迎えた「志摩観光ホテル」の魅力 志摩観光ホテルは贅沢なお部屋が特徴。 開業当時のクラシカルな客室のメイン施設ザ・クラシック、多彩なスイートが豊富なベイスイート。 コーナースイートでは、伊勢志摩の絶景、賢島の英虞湾が眺望できます。 伊勢志摩サミットで各国首脳を出迎えた「志摩観光ホテル」で味わう絶品料理 伊勢志摩の賢島は真珠だけでなく伊勢海老をはじめとした魚介類グルメが豊富です。 フランス料理「ラメール」では地元で獲れた伊勢海老をはじめとした海の幸を中心としたシェフ自慢のフルコース料理、鉄板焼「山吹」では、日本を代表する松坂牛をふんだんに使用した料理が。 和食「浜木綿」では旬の食材の逸品を味わうことができます。 志摩観光ホテルで贅沢な食事のひと時をすごしましょう。 豊富なメニューの中には、G7伊勢志摩サミットで振る舞われたランチ、ディナーを味わうことができます。 伊勢志摩サミットで各国首脳を出迎えた「志摩観光ホテル」紹介まとめ 志摩観光ホテルは日本人のおもてなしの心がしっかりと詰まった観光ホテルです。 まずは紹介した動画で志摩観光ホテルに足を運んだ気分を味わってみてはいかがでしょう。

The Torii in the Sky: Takaya Shrine Video Introduction This video, titled "A Spectacular View of Takaya Shrine's Torii in the Sky at Sunset in Kanonji, Kagawa" (話題の絶景…高屋神社「天空の鳥居」からみる圧巻の“夕日”　香川・観音寺市), was uploaded by "Setonaikai Broadcasting" (KSB瀬戸内海放送). A Spectacular Sunset From the Torii in the Sky Photo：Takaya Shrine, Kanonji, Kagawa Takaya Shrine is located at the summit of the 404-meter-tall Mt. Inazumi, between the cities of Kanonji and Mitoyo in Kagawa Prefecture. The torii gate of the main shrine is called "Tenku no Torii" (天空の鳥居, "The Torii in the Sky") in Japanese. From the torii, visitors can look out over the city of Kanonji and the Seto Inland Sea. Beyond the torii, the sea and sky can be seen and it truly feels like you're floating in the sky. It's also a popular power spot for beautiful sunsets. [Video] 0:21 - The View Overlooking the Seto Inland Sea The torii gate, sea, and sky, create a world reminiscent of the movie "Your Name." It's not a film location, but it's a popular spot for tourists on Instagram. The video also shows the sunset, so be sure to check it out. [Video] 】0:47 - Sunset at Takaya Shrine Takaya Shrine at the top of Mt. Inazumi Photo：Takaya Shrine, Kanonji, Kagawa Takaya Shrine, also known as "Inazumi Shrine" or "Inazumi-san," sits at the top of Mt. Inazumi and is a well-known local shrine; in 2018, it was selected as one of the 88 Views of Shikoku. Climbing up from the lower shrine to the main shrine, you'll find the middle shrine on the way. The view from each of the torii gates is so spectacular that you'll want to stop and take a look. There are a total of 270 stone steps 'til you reach the top, and if you're lucky, you may see a wild rabbit on the way up. In spring, the large festival "Takaya Matsuri" is held, with a parade of drum stands amidst the blooming cherry blossoms and lion dances. The deities of the festival are Ninigi no Mikoto, Ukemochi, and Konohana Sakuya. The deities are believed to provide maritime safety, protection from floods, traffic safety, safe childbirth, a good harvest, and prosperous business. Things to Do Near Takaya Shrine Photo：Takaya Shrine, Kanonji, Kagawa In addition to Takaya Shrine, there are many other places to enjoy sightseeing around Takaya Shrine in Kanonji. There's a campground, an athletic park for hiking and climbing Mt. Inazumi, as well as a beach for swimming and clamming. After experiencing the world like "Your Name" at Takaya Shrine, consider checking out the surrounding area. To get to Takaya Shrine, you can take a shared-ride bus or community bus from JR Kanonji Station. To get there by car, take the Sanuki Toyonaka IC and follow the signs. Parking at Takaya Shrine is free of charge, but please note that there are times on weekends and holidays when private cars are restricted. Summary of Takaya Shrine, the Torii in the Sky Takaya Shrine in Kagawa Prefecture offers a mysterious and beautiful view. Visiting this shrine standing in such a beautiful place will put your heart at ease. Taking photos with the Torii in the Sky and the setting sun is truly a magnificent experience. The photos are great for Instagram too, so be sure to take a bunch! If you need some inspiration, check out the video for an idea of some of the different angles you can try. [Video] 0:28 - The Torii in the Sky and Blue Seas at Sunset The video also features an interview with a man who came to this location after learning about the Torii in the Sky on the Internet. It's truly a spot to throw on your bucket list. 【Official Website】Takaya Shrine https://www.city.kanonji.kagawa.jp/soshiki/21/13387.html 【TripAdvisor】Takaya Shrine https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g1022922-d17338377-Reviews-Takaya_Shrine_Hongu-Kanonji_Kagawa_Prefecture_Shikoku.html

Japan's Solo Camping Boom Due in part to the Corona pandemic, camping has become a popular way to get outside and enjoy nature and the outdoors in Japan. Traditionally, camping was often a family or group activity, but "solo camping" has been on the rise as of late. Solo camping is a great way to get away from the stresses of everyday life and enjoy some time alone in a quiet environment. Having some alone time to get in touch with nature can be relaxing, and it also provides an opportunity for self-reflection. In this article, we'll take a look at some useful gear for solo camping. Solo Camping Gear Photo：Camping gear As we mentioned previously, solo camping refers to "one-person camping," and it has been growing in popularity in Japan in recent years. With Japan's current boom in solo camping, lots of useful and stylish solo camping gear is now available on the market. Video Introduction Source :YouTube screenshot The video we'll be going over today, titled "[Camping Gear] Camping With Just One Backpack! Solo Camping Gear Introduction" (【キャンプ道具】バックパック１つでキャンプが出来る！ソロキャンプギア紹介), was uploaded by "Takibito channel" (焚き人channel). The video introduces compact, convenient, and lightweight camping gear and backpacks. Various gear that can be packed into one backpack is introduced in an easy-to-understand manner. ※Please note that the order in which the gear is introduced is different from the order shown in the video as they've been divided based on their purpose. A Comfortable Tent and Sleeping Area Source :YouTube screenshot First, we'll introduce tents and bedding to bring when solo camping. The tent introduced in the video is the LOCUS GEAR Khafra HB Kit. It can be easily stored in a backpack and is also stylish and waterproof. The tent is secured with Snow Peak Solid Stakes and Boundless Voyage Titanium Peg Solid stakes using an MSR Stake Hammer to pound the stakes into place. As for sleeping gear, a NANGA AuroraLite 600DX sleeping bag and Therm-a-Rest NeoAir XTherm are great options! If you need a pillow, a MARCHWAY Inflatable Camping Pillow is recommended. For a night light, a BRISIE LED Lantern is waterproof, dustproof, and can also be used as a mobile battery. Must-Have Gear for Building a Fire Source :YouTube screenshot Next, we'll introduce gear for building a campfire that can fit in a backpack when solo camping. The first step in building a campfire is to chop kindling. The 38cm Husqvarna hatchet is a high-quality Swedish-made hatchet that is sharp and weighs just 600 grams. After chopping some wood, it's time to get a fire started. To build a fire, a Morakniv Mora Knife, SOTO Slide Gas Torch, and Conifer Cone Butterfly Saw are used. For easy fire starting, the match-shaped SOLSTICKAN FIRELIGHTERS are used as a handy igniter, and their combustion duration of 8 minutes makes it easy to ignite firewood. When the fire is about to be go out, a Bushcraft Fire Blaster (Sx) is used to keep it going. To protect your hands, use Tent-Mark Designs King Tongs and GRIP SWANY G-1 gloves. Solo Camping Gear for Cooking Source :YouTube screenshot The next solo camping gear we'll introduce is what to bring so you can enjoy cooking. This includes cooking utensils, etc. that can fit in a backpack. Camp food is an important part of the camping experience. The STC Picogrill 398 and the Boundless Voyage Titanium Fire Grill make the perfect cooking tables and are highly popular in Japan. The Snow Peak Aluminum Personal Cooker Set is easy to store! The set includes a frying pan and two shallow cookers. WILD-1 Brass Sierra Cups are also useful. After cooking up some delicious food it's time to relax. Relax and unwind with the SOTO Field Hopper ST-630 table and Helinox Tactical Chair, or enjoy a cup of freshly brewed, delicious coffee in a Snow Peak Ti-Single Cup. THE NORTH FACE Venture Jacket is great for any sudden rain that might occur. A Backpack to Hold All Your Solo Camping Gear Source :YouTube screenshot A Seibertron backpack can hold all of the solo camping gear featured in the video! The pockets and side pouches on the backpack can be well utilized to store all of your camping gear. The backpack is also waterproof, has a large storage capacity, and is comfortable to carry. Store all of your solo camping gear compactly in one backpack! See below for all solo camping gear introduced above! ■NANGA AuroraLite 600DX ■38cm Husqvarna hatchet ■Snow Peak Aluminum Personal Cooker Set ■Snow Peak Ti-Single Cup ■THE NORTH FACE Venture Jacket ■LOCUS GEAR Khafra HB Kit ■Therm-a-Rest NeoAir XTherm ■Snow Peak Solid Stakes ■Boundless Voyage Titanium Peg Solid ■MARCHWAY Inflatable Camping Pillow ■STC Picogrill 398 ■Boundless Voyage Titanium Fire Grill ■GRIP SWANY G-1 ■MSR Stake Hammer ■SOTO Field Hopper ST-630 ■Tent-Mark Designs King Tongs ■Morakniv Mora Knife ■SOTO Slide Gas Torch ■Conifer Cone Butterfly Saw ■SOLSTICKAN FIRELIGHTERS ■Bushcraft Fire Blaster (Sx) ■WILD-1 Brass Sierra Cups ■BRISIE LED Lantern ■Helinox Tactical Chair ■Seibertron backpacks Summary of Solo Camping Gear for Camping in Japan In this article we introduced solo camping gear that fits into one backpack. The video shows you how to take it out of the backpack, so you can use it as a reference when packing. Be sure to check it out. If you're planning on camping in Japan for the first time or feel that solo camping might be too difficult, your best bet is to gather information from advanced campers so you can save time when decided what gear to buy. Enjoy Japan's beautiful outdoors with a solo camping adventure!

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