-
Article
-
Channel
-
Region
-
Season
-
Tag
Articles
-
Video article 2:35
Aizu Paper Mache Akabeko - With Its Impressive Bright Red Coloring, This 400-Year-Old Folk Art of Aizu, Fukushima Is a Craft That Clearly Shows the Craftsman's Attention To Detail
Traditional Crafts Celebrities- 546 plays
- Vimeo
Aizu Hariko: A Traditional Handicraft of Aizu, Fukushima This video (TOHOKU STANDARD 03 FUKUSHIMA PREFECTURE AIZU HARIKO) was created by “Tohoku STANDARD” and introduces the craftsmen of “Aizu hariko,” a traditional craft that the Aizu region of Fukushima, the birthplace of Akabeko, is proud of. Aizu paper mache is a traditional Japanese craft, local toy, and folk art. During the Warring States Period (1467 to 1573 AD), Gamo Ujisato, the lord of Aizu in the northeastern region of Japan, Fukushima Prefecture, who served Hideyoshi Toyotomi, invited puppeteers from Kyoto to learn the techniques of puppeteering, which he then used to help promote the industry among the common people. In front of Aizuwakamatsu station, there is a huge Akabeko, a traditional craft, local toy, and folk art that has taken root in the area. It is said that the reason why Akabeko is so popular in Aizu is because of the legend of "Akabeko," a herd of red-haired cows that helped rebuild the main building of Enzoji Temple (円蔵寺, Enzoji), home to one of the three major Ākāśagarbha (Bodhisattva of the void) statues in Japan, built approximately 1,200 years ago, which has been passed down through generations. In this video, two craftsmen of Aizu paper mache talk about the history, tradition, and their commitment to the craft. The beauty of the bright red Aizu paper mache is truly an art! Enjoy the beauty of Aizu paper mache! Aizu Paper Mache: Traditional Crafts, Folk Crafts, and Local Toys Source :YouTube screenshot Hariko (paper mache), is formed by attaching paper or other materials to a frame made of bamboo or wood, and is also known as "haribote" in Japanese. The floats of the famous "Nebuta Festival" are also made using this technique. The art of paper mache began in China in the 2nd century and was introduced to Asia and other countries thereafter. Folk art and local toys made of paper mache can be found all over Japan: "Rokuhara paper mache" in Iwate Prefecture, "Sendai paper mache" in Miyagi Prefecture, "Miharu paper mache" and "Inu paper mache" in Fukushima Prefecture, and "Yamagata paper mache" in Yamagata Prefecture. "Yohana" in Tochigi Prefecture, "Takasaki Maneki Neko" in Gunma Prefecture, "Kawagoe Daruma" in Saitama Prefecture, "Edo Inu paper mache" in Tokyo, " Hamamatsu paper mache" in Shizuoka Prefecture, "Paper Plastic Doll" in Toyama Prefecture, " Kobe Suma Macheko" in Hyogo Prefecture, "Dorakukan Kobo" in Okayama Prefecture, "Miyajima Macheko" in Hiroshima Prefecture, "Takamatsu Miyauchi paper mache" in Kagawa Prefecture, " Paper mache Whale Cars" in Kochi Prefecture, and "Tosa Washi" in Kochi Prefecture, “Plaster paper mache” in Okinawa Prefecture. Aizu Hariko is characterized by its bright red coloring, and is mainly made in prayer for child-rearing, good luck, thriving business, and to bring a good harvest. The two Aizu Hariko artisans in the interview in this video are the writer "Toyorin" of "Nozawa Folk Crafts" and his daughter "Minako Hayakawa." "There used to be about 30 Akabeko paper mache craftsmen, but they all had different shapes and made the same thing for 50 years," says Toyorin (0:33). However, from 1:48 of the video, Minako Hayakawa said, "Although it's necessary to inherit the parts that need to be inherited, but it is also important to innovate and make something that fits people's tastes if you want to survive. While certain things may change, the fundamentals remain the same." The interviews convey the struggle of the artisans to preserve tradition, but also their struggle to breathe new life into it due to practical issues such as the lack of successors and the decline of tradition. How Aizu Hariko Are Made Source :YouTube screenshot In this video, on top of the interview, we see the making of Akabeko at 0:31 in the video. In this article, we'll go over the steps of how to make a common Akabeko paper mache. Be sure to take a look at their delicate craftsmanship as you follow along. Materials: paper, soil, wood, straw, bamboo. 1. A wooden mold is shaped, and a number of sheets of Japanese paper are pasted to it with glue and dried. (Video: 0:31-) 2. When the glue dries, the back and belly are opened with a small knife and the wooden mold is removed. 3. After the wooden mold is removed, Japanese paper is pasted over the mold again and re-coated with a special paint. 4. A top coat of red dye or similar material is used to apply the color. (Video: 0:53-) 5. Patterns are then drawn on the surface with ink. (Video: 1:26-) 6. Finally, the head is attached and it's finished. (Video: 1:45-) The completed red Akabeko can be seen at 1:22. They're truly masterpieces! Aizu Paper Mache Source :YouTube screenshot Nozawa Folk Crafts introduced in this video, deals with various products. The new colorful folk craft, "wish balls," introduced at 0:02 in the video, were made to aid in the recovery from the 2011 triple disaster. There are various types of paper mache toys, "zodiac paper mache," which are paper mache tinctures shaped like the animals of the Chinese zodiac, such as rats and boars, and which bob their heads back and forth to bring good luck. Many different varieties are sold every year. In the year of the dog in 2018, the "Zarukaburi Dog" (A dog wearing a basket on its head) was very popular. There's "Matryoshka" toys reminiscent of babushka dolls, with eggs inside chicks, inside chickens, "Wedding Koboshi," "Okiagari-koboshi," "Aizu Tenjin," "Fukkomaru" and "Fukumasu," made to aid in the recovery of the 2011 triple disaster, as well as Akabeko, Fukubeko, Senryo-beko, Okame, and Hyottoko masks. These are just some of the different types of Aizu paper mache. These products can also be purchased via Amazon or Rakuten online shopping websites. In Yanaizu, the birthplace of Akabeko, you can see Akabeko everywhere in the city. At the "Rest House Hotto in Yanaizu," you can try your hand at painting in a special space inside the building. Why not try your hand at making your own original Akabeko? Summary of Aizu Paper Mache This traditional craft has been handed down in Japan for a long time, and the craftsmen are very particular about their work and their struggle to pass it on to the next generation. This article and video were just a small look into the world of Aizu Hariko Craftsmen. You can see from the video that the long-loved craft is made by the amazing skills of passionate craftsmen. We hope that this traditional Japanese craft will continue to be passed on for many years. 【Official Website】Nozawa Folk Crafts http://www.nozawa-mingei.com/index.html -
Video article 2:45
The Gorgeous Carp Streamers of Kazo Saitama; One of the Few Carp Streamer Towns in Japan. The History of These Handmade Crafts and How They're Made!
Traditional Crafts Traditional Culture Celebrities- 568 plays
- YouTube
The Traditional Carp Streamers of Kazo, Saitama The video "Kazo Carp Streamers [Saitama Prefectural Government Official Sightseeing Video]"(加須の手がき鯉のぼり【埼玉県公式観光動画】)” was created by “ChokotabiSaitama,” and it introduces viewers to the traditional hand-painted carp streamers of Kazo, Saitama, in Japan's Kanto region. May 5th is Children's Day in Japan. People put up carp streamers to exorcise bad spirits and as a way to respect children's personalities and to celebrate their happiness. Kazo is known as the No. 1 producer of the Japanese traditional carp streamers. It also creates the dynamic hand-painted carp streamer. Carp streamers have become a Kazo specialty that every Kazo citizen is proud of. This video will show you how these hand-painted carp streamers are made! You can also visit the factory and have a factory tour. The History of Kazo's Hand-Painted Carp Streamers Kazo carp streamers were originally created in the early Meiji period (1868-1912) as a side job for craftsmen who usually made lanterns and umbrellas. This traditional high quality handmade carp streamer gradually gained popularity and Kazo became the number 1 carp streamer town. Masaru Hashimoto, a traditional carp streamer craftsman from the long-established carp streamer studio, Hashimoto Yakichi Shop in Kazo City, has been producing carp streamers for a long time. Unfortunately, his store closed down in 2016 after 109 years of business. Kazo Carp Streamers: How They're Made Source :YouTube screenshot 1. Cutting and sewing (0:32) In order to make these hand-painted carp streamers, you start by cutting the fabric into a carp shape and sewing it together. 2. Memawashi (1:07) Draw eyes by using a special compass to draw circles. 3. Sujigaki (1:22) Draw scales one by one using lightly colored ink. 4. Usuzumi (1:30) Add color to the scales. Adding colors is the part that requires the most focus. 5 Kinbiki (1:49) Add the finishing touches with a specialized brush. As you can see in the video, the technique used to finish the painting process is very precise. The masculine expression of the carp and intricate scales are drawn with the precise technique of the craftsman. Gigantic Kazo Carp Streamers As Kazo is known as the No. 1 carp streamer producer in Japan, they also make the world biggest carp streamer. The jumbo carp streamer is 100 meters long! The jumbo carp streamer, which was made by Kazo citizens, appears at the Tone river riverbed every May, at the Kazo City Heiwa Festival (Jumbo Carp Streamer swim). Check out the event to see the jumbo carp stream swimming dynamically in the sky. You can also see the carp streamers made with precise hand-painting techniques. The main venue of the event is at Tonegawa Riverbed Park. 400 parking spaces are available, however, due to the popularity of the event, it will likely be pretty packed. Even though these carp streamers are not the biggest carp streamers in Japan, you can see the carp streamers swimming elegantly under the blue sky at 2:23. These elaborate carp streamers are made through a variety of manufacturing processes, and the video shows the traditional craftsmanship that has been handed down in Japan for centuries. Kazo Carp Streamer Summary Photo:Kazo carp streamers Kazo's hand-painted carp streamers are a very artistic and beautiful creation. Every carp streamer is unique because they are all individually hand made. You can see the traditional Japanese carp streamers every May in Japan. Please come see the carp streamers or try to put one up in your house on Children's Day! -
Video article 1:51
Nanbu Tekki Ironware Has Over 400 Years History, Can Be Used for Life, and Is a Very Popular Item Among Foreigners! It Also Acts as an Iron Supplement and Is Good for Your Health. Let’s Take a Look at the Traditional Japanese Product from Morioka, Iwate Prefecture!
Traditional Crafts- 205 plays
- Vimeo
An Introduction to Nanbu Tekki ironware This video, made by Tohoku STANDARD (東北STANDARD), is titled "Tohoku STANDARD 05 Nanbu Tekki ironware" (東北STANDARD 05 岩手県 南部鉄器). In the video, we introduce you to Nanbu Tekki ironware through an interview with Hisao Iwashimizu, an ironworker from Kukan Chuzo Studio. Enjoy the historic, traditional Japanese craft shown in the video! What is Nanbu Tekki ironware? Source :YouTube screenshot Nanbu Tekki ironware is an ironware with more than 400 years of history. Both ironware from Mizusawa, Iwate Prefecture and ironware from Morioka, Iwate Prefecture in Japan's Tohoku region are called Nanbu Tekki ironware. Each has its own history. What we call ‘Nanbu Tekki ironware’ nowadays, is actually the name used in Morioka City, Iwate Prefecture. It is said that ironware started around the time Lord Nanbu of Morioka built Morioka Castle in the Keicho Period (around 1600). There are many Nanbu Tekki ironware products such as pots, cauldrons, wind chimes, candle stick holders, tea kettles, frying pans and kettles. The most famous ones are iron tea kettles used in tea ceremony. It is said that these iron kettles originated when the 28th lord of the Nanbu domain, Shigenao Nanbu , invited Nizaemon Kiyotaka Koizumi of Kyoto to make a chagama with high quality iron. As it was initially used as a tea cauldron, there was no spout nor handle at its conception. After many improvements, the current unique style of tea kettles with a spout and handle was born. It can be seen from 0:47 in the video. Source :YouTube screenshot By using Nanbu Tekki ironware, you can supplement your iron intake which most people tend to be deficient in. Supplementing iron helps in recovery from stiff shoulders, and, as you probably guessed, prevents iron deficiencies. One benefit of boiling tap water in Nanbu Tekki ironware is that most of the chlorine is removed in the process. During World War II, development of arms was given the highest priority and Nanbu Tekki ironware faced a crisis as the production became prohibited in Iwate Prefecture. After the war, it made a comeback, and it was given the status of a "National Traditional Craft" in 1975. How to Make Nanbu Tekki Ironware Source :YouTube screenshot Be sure to follow along from the start of the video! Step 1. Mold cutting Create a wooden mold. Step 2. Pattern pressing Before the casting mold dries, use a tool such as a spatula to draw patterns such as hailstones, tortoiseshells, pine trees, cherry trees, flying dragons, or hills and water. Step 3. Heating the mold Bake the casting mold at 1,400°C with charcoal. Source :YouTube screenshot Step 4. Melting Increase the temperature of the blasting furnace from 1,400 degrees to 1,500 degrees. Pour the melted iron into the casting mold. Source :YouTube screenshot Step 5. Oven bake (~1:17) Take the ironware out of the casting mold and bake it in the oven with charcoal at 800 degrees for 30-40 minutes. Step 6. Coloring/Finishing Using sandpaper, make the surface of the iron kettle smooth. To finish, apply Ohaguro - an iron acetate solution mixed with tea to make it shiny. Summary of Nanbu Tekki Ironware Source :YouTube screenshot At 0:41 in the video, iron worker Hisao Iwashimizu says "I want to recreate the history of Nanbu Tekki ironware as a simple everyday tool." From 0:52 in the video, he also says, "I have launched a product called Yakihada Migaki, where I shave the ironware that has come out of the mold and make it into the form I have in mind." He explains in the interview that he is creating products that have never been made in the history of Nanbu Tekki ironware. If you're interested in Nanbu Tekki ironware after watching the video, be sure to check out Nanbu Tekki ironware online. You can purchase it at online shops such as Rakuten. Popular Nanbu Tekki ironware products are from the long-established Iwachu Nanbu ironware, Kamasada, Suzuki Morihisa Kobo and Oigen. Their products are priced from a few thousand Yen (Tens of dollars). Nowadays, they make new products such as IH compatible ironware, rice cookers using Nanbu Tekki ironware, and colored iron tea kettles (~1:42). You may wonder what happens if it gets rusty. With Nanbu Tekki ironware, you can still use it even if it rusts a little. As long as you look after it, you should be able to use it for life. Be sure to take a look at the video on Nanbu Tekki ironware. It's very popular among people both inside and outside of Japan. 【Official Website】IWACHU Nanbu ironware| Iwachu K.K. Iwachu Morioka, the home of Nanbu Tekki ironware https://iwachu.co.jp/ 【Official Website】Kamasada Nobuho Miya | designshop https://www.designshop-jp.com/japan-onlineshop/ -
Video article 2:22
Fire, Dancing Around a 60-Foot-Tall Tree in the Northern Area of Kyoto! Flaming Torches Thrown About! Check Out the Hirogawara Matsuage Traditional Fire Festival!
Festivals & Events- 208 plays
- YouTube
Introducing Kyoto's Hirogawara Matsuage Fire Festival! ‘Kyoto Festival: Fire Ritual in Hirogawara Kyoto (Matsuage)’ is a video made by Discover Kyoto and it show a festival in Kyoto called Matsuage at Hirogawara, Sakyo District. There are many traditional fire festival events throughout Japan. One of the most famous fire festivals in Kyoto is the Gozan Fire Festival, where people send off the spirits of the dead during the Bon Festival. In Kyoto, there are other Matsuage festivals such as the Hanase Matsuage Fire Festival, Kuta Matsuage, and Kumogahatano Matsuage. Today we present to you- Hirogawara Matsuage, held on August 24th every year. You will enjoy the dancing fire in the sky and the spectacular display of a large tree falling with a loud crash. What is Hirogawara Matsuage? Photo:Torch Ceremony Hirogawara Matsuage was originally a fire ritual to commemorate the fire god Atago at Atago Shrine. It is said to have originated from a special praying ritual for good harvest and fire prevention in addition to ‘the sending-off of the spirit of one's ancestors. It is also called Matsuage Festival (Matsuage Matsuri), and the Matsuage Shinto Ceremony (Matsuage Shinji). Hirogawara Matsuage is organized by around 40 men from the preservation society. First, they light around 1,000 log torches standing in the ground. They then light the small bundles of wood attached to a rope, and proceed to hurl them up at the top of the 60 ft. tall Torogi Pine tree. The objective here is to light the torch at the top of this large tree. The arcs of torchlight flames flying through the darkness is magical. The dynamic display of the throwing of the burning torches is the highlight of this fire festival. You can see it from 0:38 in the video. Once the torch has been lit, and the tree is engulfed in flames, it is pulled down using pre-attached ropes. This is definitely one of the highlights of the video. You can see the large, flaming tree crashing to the ground causing shockwaves to ripple through the ground (1:11). The men then run into the flames, carrying large poles to stoke the flame even higher into the night sky. This ritual is called Tsukkomi. It is shown from 1:36 in the video. When and Where to See Hirogawara Matsuage Hirogawara Matsuage is held in the evening of August 24th every year. Please note that it takes about two hours to get to Demachiyanagi Station on the Eizan Electric Railway and Keihan Electric Railway by Kyoto Bus, and it is not possible to take a day trip from the festival site by bus. You can book a hotel close to the venue or visit the event by car and use the parking lot nearby. Kyoto Bus offers a sightseeing coach bus tour to for Hirogawara Matsuage. We recommend joining if you have the chance. Summary of Hirogawara Matsuage Source :YouTube screenshot This video covers the dynamic Hirogawara Matsuage, a summer tradition in Kyoto, in just 2 and a half minutes. We hope you enjoy it! If you'd like to see Hirogawara Matsuage, a traditional Japanese fire festival, please visit the Rakuhoku District of Kyoto using a Kyoto Bus tour. 【Official Website】Rakuhoku area | Kyoto Travel-Navi http://www.japan-travel-navi.jp/kyoto/en/category/spots/rakuhoku/ 【Tripadviser】Kyoto Gozan Fire Festival https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g298564-d8820274-Reviews-Kyoto_Gozan_no_Okuribi-Kyoto_Kyoto_Prefecture_Kinki.html -
Video article 4:35
The Sannai-Maruyama Site, a special historic site in Aomori City, Aomori Prefecture, is one of the largest Jomon Period ruins in Japan! Enjoy the historical romance in this video packed with highlights!
History- 167 plays
- YouTube
Special Historic Site "Sannai-Maruyama Ruins" in Aomori City, Aomori Prefecture Video Introduction "[Aomori's Charm] The Special Historic Site: Sannai Maruyama Site - Truth Underground- Romance Above Ground(【青森の魅力】特別史跡三内丸山遺跡 - 地下に真実 地上にロマン)" is a video produced by "marugotoaomori". Introduced here is a large-scale photograph of a settlement in Aomori Prefecture from Japan's Jomon period. It is a wonderful tourist attraction where you can learn about the history of the village, as well as various artifacts and events. This article introduces the charm of the special historical site Sannai Maruyama. What is Sannai Maruyama? Photo:Sannai Maruyama site The special historical site, Sannai Maruyama, is located in Aomori city, Aomori prefecture in Japan's Tohoku region, and is the largest site remaining from Japan's Jomon period (14000 BC to 400 BC). It is a large-scale settlement from the early to middle Jomon period, about 5,900 to 4,200 years ago. It is said that Jomon people had been settled here for about 1,000 years. You can also see the reconstructed buildings such as the large pit building and the large pillar building, which help picture life in the Jomon period. You can see these buildings from 0:41 in the video. In addition to the restored building, you can also see various excavated artifacts such as earthenware, clay figurines, as well as accessories that would have been indispensable to those living at that time. There are restaurants and shops too, so you can enjoy a variety of different things if you feel like taking a break. Access is about 20 minutes by car from JR Aomori Station, and about 30-40 minutes by municipal bus. The entrance fee is 410 yen for the general public, 200 yen for high school and university students, and free for junior high school students and younger (* as of April 2020). Sannai Maruyama's Reconstructed Pillar Building Source :YouTube screenshot The restored large-scale pillar building that can be seen from 1:08 in the video is a building with a height of about 15m, and features huge columns. It was built by burying a chestnut tree in a large hole roughly 2m in diameter. The distance between the pillars is carefully measured at 4.2m, and the unit of length is 35cm. The intended use is unknown and encased in mystery, but a volunteer guide says that it was used as a viewing tower, lighthouse, or temple. It is said that the height at the time of the Jomon period was higher than the restored building's 15m, and was probably closer to 20m. The Sannai Maruyama Site, a special historic site, has various remains in addition to the six pillar building. You can see the ruins of a pit-type dwelling, which is said to have been inhabited by ordinary residents, and the ruins of a stilt-pillar building that was likely to have been a stilt-type building (a stilt-type warehouse). You can also visit the inside of a large-sized pit building that was probably used as a joint workshop and gathering venue. This can be seen in the video from 1:00. One of the highlights of the site is the ring stone tomb, which is said to be that of the head of the village. Highlights of the Sannai Maruyama Archaeological Site Source :YouTube screenshot At the Sanmaru Museum, Jomon Amusement Park and Sannai Maruyama Archeological Site in the Jomon Hill Sannai Maruyama-Mahoroba Park that can be seen from 2:11, you can see about 1,700 relics excavated from the special historical site on display. You can see ornaments such as hooks, fish bones and earrings. We can imagine that the Jomon people had a developed culture, such as using various tools to cultivate and procure food, as well as cook and decorate themselves with accessories. Summary of Sannai Maruyama Source :YouTube screenshot "[Aomori's Charm] The Special Historic Site: Sannai Maruyama Site - Truth Underground- Romance Above Ground" produced by "marugotoaomori" is a video introducing the special historical site Sannai Maruyama in Aomori City. There are plenty of places to look out for, such as the 15-meter tall reconstructed building that was likely used as a lookout tower and a watching tower. It is a must-see spot for history buffs because you can see various archaeological sites and excavated treasures! ◆Sannai-Maruyama's facility outline◆ 【Address】305 Sannai Maruyama, Aomori, Aomori Prefecture, 038-0031 【Access】 About 20 minutes by car from JR Aomori Station 【Operating Hours】From 9:00 to 17:00 【Closed Day】4th Monday of every month 【Parking Facilities】500 spaces 【Telephone No】017-766-8282 【Entrance fee】410 yen, 200 yen for high school and college students, free for junior high school students and younger (as of April 2020) 【Official Website】Special Historic Site "Sannai Maruyama" https://sannaimaruyama.pref.aomori.jp/english/ 【Tripadvisor】Sannai Maruyama Site https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g298241-d324336-Reviews-Sannai_Maruyama_Site-Aomori_Aomori_Prefecture_Tohoku.html -
Video article 2:05
The Amazing Hinomaru Stealth Fighter as It Flies Through the Skies! Its Maximum Speed of 1,200 km/h Left Onlookers Astonished!
News- 302 plays
- YouTube
The X-2 Stealth Aircraft - From the Wings to the Engine, This Machine Is Homegrown This news report introduces the first flight of the domestically manufactured stealth aircraft, the X-2. It's titled "Where's the Hinomaru? The First Flight of the Domestically Manufactured Stealth Fighter (22/04/16)" (日の丸戦闘機”の行方は 国産ステルス機が初飛行(16/04/22)). The X-2 shown in the video is a domestically manufactured stealth aircraft. From the wings to the engine, everything is made in Japan. It became a popular topic in 2016 when it made its first flight. Japan's X-2 Stealth Aircraft Source :YouTube screenshot The X-2 is an experimental aircraft for advanced technology demonstrations commissioned by Mitsubishi Heavy Industries for the Technical Research and Development Division of the Japanese Ministry of Defense. 220 Japanese companies cooperated to develop this aircraft. The X-2 was named after the X1G, a modified Saab-Safir 91B high-lift research aircraft once used by the Defense Agency as an experimental aircraft. More than 90% of the X-2's parts were made in Japan, and it was developed under the name "Shin shin," which means Mt. Fuji. The X-2 was developed to demonstrate advanced military technology as a future domestically produced fighter, and to accumulate knowledge of stealth technology. Stealth fighters are characterized by their small size and shortened operational periods of a few hundred hours. Their engines are small and they are not equipped with weapons. The Body of the Japanese X-2 Stealth Aircraft Source :YouTube screenshot The Japanese stealth aircraft is equipped with a mechanism called "chine," which is used to reduce and absorb radar reflection and absorption, and the surface of the fuselage is specially coated with composite materials such as ceramic and silicon carbide. The X-2 has a total length of about 14 meters. Tests conducted in the radio anechoic chamber of the Directorate General of Armaments (DGA) to investigate the RCS, which is the radar's reflection area, proved that the X-2 is smaller than a medium-sized bird and larger than an insect in terms of stealth performance. The development of the X-2 cost 39.4 billion yen and took seven years of prototyping from 2009 to 2014, with development completed in 2016. The cockpit has two displays and a heads-up display, while the seats and canopy are made of ITO, a material developed by Kawasaki Heavy Industries that prevents radio waves from reflecting off of it. The engine of the X-2 is an XF5 developed by the Ministry of Defense's Air Equipment Research Center in cooperation with Ishikawajima-harima Heavy Industries, and is a turbofan jet engine with an afterburner that burns by blowing fuel into the exhaust of the jet engine again. The engine was developed through research into high-motion flight control systems, and the engine's three thrust vectoring paddles allow the direction of engine thrust to be controlled at will, even in areas of stalling where normal fighter jets would be unable to do so. In the future, the X-2 is expected to be commercialized around 2030, and is envisioned as the next fighter aircraft of the F2, which belongs to the older generation of aircraft. The First Flight of the X-2 Japanese Stealth Aircraft Photo:American stealth aircraft・F35 As shown in the video, the X-2, a 100% Japanese-made stealth aircraft, made its first flight at Nagoya Airport in April 2016. It has a top speed of 1,200 km/h, or supersonic speed. You can also see the X-2 flying with other fighters, such as an F15, at 0:39 in the video. Japan is the fourth country to fly a manned stealth aircraft, following the United States, Russia and China. Since then, it underwent several test flights and was kept in storage, but it became a hot topic of conversation when it was shown to the public at an air festival at the Air Self Defense Force base in Gifu. Summary of the X-2 Japanese Stealth Aircraft Source :YouTube screenshot What did you think of Japan's latest stealth aircraft? At 1:28 in the video, you can see comments from people who saw the first flight of X-2. Be sure to check out the test flight of the X-2 and see how awesome the new stealth aircraft is! -
Video article 3:19
Kawaii" is the word that keeps coming back to you on a Harajuku tour with a Lolita guide! A new tour in Tokyo that allows visitors to experience Kawaii in Harajuku, Shibuya-ku, Tokyo, is very popular among foreign tourists!
Modern Culture Travel Things to Do- 116 plays
- YouTube
Video introduction of Harajuku tour to experience "Kawaii" in Shibuya-ku, Tokyo "Kawaii" everywhere! Lolita Tour Guide, Harajuku Tour (06/18/26)" (「カワイイ」連発!ロリータガイドと巡る原宿ツアー(18/06/26)」), is a video released by "AnnnewsCH," of a Lolita fashion guide taking foreign tourists on a tour of popular spots in Harajuku, such as grocery stores and cafes. Now that Kawaii (cute) culture is gaining popularity throughout the world, more and more foreigners are coming to Japan to experience the Japanese subculture, instead of touring Japan's high packed tourist attractions. This article introduces Japan's kawaii culture with a focus on Harajuku tours led by Lolita fashionistas. A Look at "Kawaii" Lolitas Photo:Lolita fashion girl A growing number of foreigners visit Japan to take a tour of Takeshita Street, the holy land of lolitas. At present, there are tours that are soaring in popularity among foreign visitors to Japan. That tour, is the lolita-fashion Harajuku tour! Lolita guides will take you through trendy boutiques and cafes dealing with cute fashion, and you can enjoy a tour packed with "kawaii." The tour can be viewed at 0:12 in the video. Lolita fashion refers to cute fashion, such as dolls, clothes with lots of laces and frills, and hairstyles with large ribbons. Street fashion, a look sported by many young women in Japan, is said to have been born in Harajuku. The lolita girl played by Kyoko Fukada, from the movie "Kamikaze Girls" released in 2004, triggered a sudden rise in popularity. The Kawaii Harajuku Tour! Source :YouTube screenshot The Harajuku tour, which allows you to experience kawaii, is a tour that takes you to Takeshita Street, Omotesando, Urahara, Cat Street, Meiji Street, and other kawaii shopping spots where you can discover new forms of kawaii in every corner. Takeshita Street is a shopping street in Jingumae, Shibuya, and is a pedestrian mall for young people.. It's a very exciting spot, filled with couples on dates and students on school trips. This tour will take you to a number of shopping and lunch spots, including boutiques selling Lolita fashion, Instagrammable cafes, and shops offering crepes and other sweets. You can see the kawaii Harajuku tour throughout the video, including shopping at the cute little shop on a back street (1:55), having a quick bite to eat at the cute little cafe (2:17), and experiencing a kawaii show like at 2:26. You can see kawaii everywhere along the Harajuku tour! Japan's Unique "Kawaii" Culture Source :Harajuku Kawaii Tour Kawaii is a Japanese word that expresses loveliness and charm. It is similar to "Cute" when translated into English, but the nuance of "Cute" is slightly different from that of "Kawaii" in Japan as it has a childish feel to it. Since there is no other word that fits the word "Kawaii" exactly, the Japanese word "Kawaii" has come to be used abroad as is. The success of Kyary Pamyu Pamyu was also a catalyst for the popularity of kawaii culture around the world. Recently, BABYMETAL, a band that plays metal music in kawaii fashion, has also become popular overseas, and the number of people from abroad who like kawaii culture may continue to increase in the future. Summary of "Kawaii" Culture Source :YouTube screenshot This article introduced the Harajuku Kawaii Tour along with the video "Kawaii" everywhere! Lolita Tour Guide, Harajuku Tour (06/18/26)," by "AnnnewsCH." In the video, you'll see how to enjoy Japan's unique culture by visiting various spots where you can experience "kawaii"! Enjoy a tour that adds a new element of discovery to the traditional experience of Japan! 【Official Website】Takeshita Street official map -Harajuku latest information- https://www.takeshita-street.com/ 【Official Website】Harajuku Kawaii Tour https://www.harajuku-kawaii-tour.com/ -
Video article 3:42
Oshima Tsumugi Is a High-Class Silk Pongee That Originated in Amami Oshima, Kagoshima. The Craftsmen of This Beautiful Traditional Craft, Which Is Called the Queen of Kimono, Are Very Particular About Their Work
Traditional Crafts- 25 plays
- YouTube
奄美大島の伝統工芸品「本場大島紬」をご紹介! 奄美大島を生産地とする伝統工芸品の一つである本場大島紬について「伝統工芸 青山スクエア」が公開した『手技TEWAZA「本場大島紬」Honba Oshima Tsumugi Weaving』という動画を元に、「本場大島紬」の文化や歴史を紹介させていただきます。 本場大島紬って何? 本場大島紬とは、鹿児島県の奄美大島を発祥の地とする日本の伝統工芸品の一つである絹織物のことを指します。 日本の伝統衣装である着物の中の代表的存在で「着物の女王」とも呼ばれています。 高級絹織物とされていることから、本場大島紬を着ているだけで、知っている人には一目置かれる逸品です。 本場大島紬の始まりは7世紀頃で、文化的にも歴史的にも非常に古くから受け継がれてきています。 奄美大島には国外との交流の文化が数多く存在しますが、本場大島紬もルーツがインドにて生まれた"絣(かすり)織り"であることから、この国外の交流文化の賜物と言えます。 本場大島紬の染色方法"泥染め" 本場大島紬の製造工程で何よりも特徴的な点として挙げられるのは、染色の方法として泥染めをしていることでしょう。 この泥染めという染色方法ですが、絹糸の蚕白質の上にあるシャリンバイに含まれているタンニン酸色素と泥に含まれている鉄分が化学結合することにより、深い光沢のある味わい深い黒色を出すことが出来ます。 この自然由来の味わいが伝統工芸品たる所以であり、古くから受け継がれるべき文化だと言えます。 泥染めがどのように行われているかは動画で実際にご覧になれます。 本場大島紬のまとめ 文化的にも深い歴史を持つ伝統工芸品の本場大島紬は、今もなお奄美大島を中心に受け継がれてきています。 日本の文化とも言える伝統工芸ですが、やはり時代の流れと共に後継者が減っているのが現状です。 特殊な製造工程、細かい作業を全て手作業で行うことが主な理由とされています。 この日本の文化である伝統工芸品の一つが無くなってしまわないよう、鹿児島県としても本場大島紬織物協同組合や本場大島紬の里等の活動を盛んにされているので、今回の動画を見て興味を持った方は、ぜひ鹿児島に足を運んでみてはいかがでしょうか。 -
Video article 3:20
Traditional Japanese Wagashi Is Now a Work of Art! Why Is Wagashi Suddenly Gaining So Much Attention?
Food & Drink- 166 plays
- YouTube
日本伝統の「和菓子」紹介動画について こちらの動画は「Japan Video Topics - 日本語」が公開した「伝統の和菓子が魅せる新しい世界」です。 日本人の伝統料理「和食」が無形文化遺産に登録されたのが2013年。 和食はたちまちブームになり、世界中に日本料理店ができました。 そして今、日本食の中でも伝統のお菓子「和菓子」が人気を集めています。 日本特有の季節の風情を反映させ、おもてなしの心が込められる和食と和菓子は、その繊細な見た目と味、そしてヘルシーさが世界中で評価されているのです。 美しい様々な和菓子やその歴史、作り方をこちらの動画でお楽しみください。 日本伝統のお菓子「和菓子」の種類と原料 和菓子には、生菓子、半生菓子、干菓子の大きく3つの種類があります。 生菓子はおはぎや羊羹、練り切りなど水分量が30%以上のお菓子のことを言い、干菓子は落雁(らくがん)やあられなどの水分量が10%以下のもの、半生菓子は最中や饅頭などの生地や餡を組み合わせたものを指します。 いずれの和菓子も基本的な原料として、豆、米類などが使われていて、砂糖以外の食材の甘味を生かしています。 食材は和食のように種類豊富ではありませんが、出来上がるお菓子はその形や色で季節を感じさせてくれます。 見る人の目を楽しませる「練り切り」とレシピ 様々な種類がある和菓子ですが、中でも見た目が美しくて繊細なのが「練り切り」です。 練り切りの材料には、白いんげんなどの白い豆が使われています。 修行を積んだ職人が、豆を煮て潰し、それを練り上げ、色をつけて形を整えて作られます。 この形を整える過程で様々な繊細な細工が施され、四季を色鮮やかに表現することが特徴です。 日本の伝統的なおもてなしの場で 練り切りは、お客様を日本伝統の「お茶」でおもてなしをする際に古くから使われています。 苦味の強いお茶の味を、見た目が美しい和菓子の繊細な甘さがまろやかにするのです。 アートとしての練り切り このように見た目が美しい練り切りを、お菓子の枠を超えて一種の芸術として表現しているのが、和菓子職人の三堀純一氏です。 食べる和菓子としての完成品の練り切りのみならず、その練り切りを作るための様々な小道具、作る過程の和菓子職人の所作など一つ一つに、一般的には見られることがなかった趣があります。 三堀氏は、この練り切りが作られる過程を楽しんでもらう空間を作り上げ、たちまち世界で評価されるようになりました。 見たこともないような専門道具を使いながら繊細な曲線を描き、華やかなアート作品に仕上げていく。 舌を楽しませる前に、目と心を楽しませ、伝統を感じさせる、まさに日本が誇る“おもてなし”の空間を作っていると言えるでしょう。 日本伝統の「和菓子」紹介まとめ 和菓子は四季の情景、静寂、繊細さを感じさせる特有の美しさを持ち合わせています。 ため息が出るほど美しい職人技。 日本のおもてなしの心を伝える和菓子の動画をぜひご覧ください。 -
Video article 2:10
This Robot Is Sinking Shots Left and Right! Its Smooth, Light Movement Is Just Like That of a Professional Basketball Player!
Sports- 40 plays
- YouTube
The Basketball Robot, CUE4, in Action! This video, titled "CUE4, a Basketball Robot Powered by Cutting Edge AI Technology, Takes on the World's First 3-Point Contest! B.LEAGUE ALL-STAR 2020 IN HOKKAIDO" (最先端の AI テクノロジーを結集したバスケットボールロボットCUE4が世界初3ポイントコンテストに挑戦! B.LEAGUE ALL-STAR 2020 IN HOKKAIDO), released by "B.LEAGUE," introduces the latest basketball robot. The first thing you see when you play the video is the amazing sight of an AI basketball robot making a spectacular shot. Let's take a look at this basketball robot, which moves with the dexterity of a professional basketball player! The Basketball Robot, "CUE4" Source :YouTube screenshot CUE4, the basketball robot sinking shots left and right, was created by a group of Toyota volunteers, and is an AI technology robot filled with the wisdom of its development team. CUE4 is the fourth robot in the CUE series, and joined Alvark Tokyo, a professional basketball team in the B1 professional basketball league, in 2018 as a professional basketball player. CUE4 made a whopping 12 successful shots in the few minutes shown in the video. What Kind of Activities Is CUE4 Used For Source :YouTube screenshot This video shows footage from the B-League All-Star game held at the Hokkaido Prefectural Sports Center. CUE4, a basketball robot wearing a team uniform, makes a spectacular shot at the half-time show, as shown in the video. It uses an avant-garde system in which sensors determine the location of the hoop and artificial intelligence takes a series of shots. In the video, the robot grabs the balls lined up next to it and makes free throws with impressive form. You can also see it smoothly glide across the court at 0:39 in the video, exciting the fans! His fluid movements are like those of a real professional basketball player! CUE4, the first robot to play professional basketball, made headlines when he was loaned to the Levanga Hokkaido in 2020. CUE4's uniform number is "94". CUE4 Certified in the Guinness Book of World Records! Photo:Guinness CUE4 was registered in the Guinness Book of World Records under the category "most consecutive free throws made by a humanoid robot." The previous record was held by his predecessor, CUE3. In the future, the team aims to improve the power, speed and accuracy of CUE4 so that it may take on the 3-point contest. Summary of the Basketball Robot, CUE 4 Source :YouTube screenshot CUE4, featured in the video, is a professional basketball robot developed by a team at Toyota. The video, which is only about 2 minutes long, has been played over 1 million times in the months since its release. Check out the amazing skills of CUE4 as he sinks shots left and right! 【Official website】B.LEAGUE https://translation2.j-server.com/LUCBLEAGUE/ns/tl.cgi/https://www.bleague.jp/?SLANG=ja&TLANG=en&XMODE=0&XJSID=0 -
Video article 8:29
A Single Stick of Yakitori Leaves These Mexican Tourists Stunned! The Japanese Food Served at the Famous Mexican Restaurant "Hiyoko," Will Have You Coming Back for More!
Food & Drink- 56 plays
- YouTube
メキシコの日本食料理店「ひよこ」をご紹介 「日本食の魅力を知って、実際に日本のグルメを食べに行きたい」 このように、日本食のことはあまり知らないけど興味はあるという人はいますよね。 寿司や天ぷらなど日本食の有名どころ以外のグルメを知りたいという人もいると思います。 そのような方に、今回はメキシコで焼き鳥などの日本食をたべられる「ひよこ」というお店を紹介します。 この記事では、メキシコで焼き鳥などのグルメを出している「ひよこ」についての説明やメニューの紹介をしたいと思います。 「ひよこ」の「Shigetoshi Narita」が日本食を解説している動画も紹介しているので、気になる方は見てください! メキシコで焼き鳥や日本食などを楽しめる「ひよこ」とは? 「ひよこ」とは、メキシコで焼き鳥や日本食などのグルメを楽しめる人気の飲食店です。 職人が食材にこだわり丁寧に調理した焼き鳥や、メキシコ料理のトスターダなどを食べることができ、メキシコ人や日本人、欧米人など、さまざまな人が来店しているそう。 カウンター席のみのお店ですが、予約ができるようなので気になる方は予約してから来店してみてください。 メキシコで焼き鳥や日本食などを楽しめる「ひよこ」のメニュー メキシコで焼き鳥などのグルメを楽しめる「ひよこ」にはさまざまなメニューがあります。 まずは、焼き鳥。ネギマやモモ、ハツ、手羽などを串にさし備長炭で焼き上げていきます。 炭火焼きの焼き鳥はとてもカリっとしていて美味しいですよね。 他にも、和牛やバラ肉、野菜、ラムチョップを備長炭で焼いた料理や、メキシコ料理のトスターダと日本食をあわせた料理などさまざまなオリジナルメニューがありグルメにはたまらないお店。 「ひよこ」は、和食とメキシコ料理を楽しめる名店です。 メキシコで美味しいグルメを出している「Shigetoshi Narita」 メキシコで日本食などのグルメを楽しめる「ひよこ」の板前さんが「Shigetoshi Narita」です。 鶏肉の部位や食材にこだわり調理し、美味しい日本食やメキシコ料理を提供しています。 「Shigetoshi Narita」のトスターダはタピオカで作っています。 作り方はタピオカを弱火でじっくり煮込み、イカ墨で色付けしていきます。 そこから3日かけて乾燥させてオーダーが入ったら油で揚げて調理します。 つくねはひき肉、青ネギ、ショウガ、醤油、たまご、玉ねぎなどを使って調理します。 タレで味付けしたシンプルなつくねです。 メキシコのおすすめグルメ店である「ひよこ」の動画はこちら 「Eater」 が制作する「ひよこ」の板前さんの「Shigetoshi Narita」のインタビュー動画がおすすめです。 こちらの動画は「Shigetoshi Narita」の日本食やメキシコ料理のこだわりを解説していて、とても興味深い動画になっています。 メキシコ料理と和食を楽しめる珍しいお店の「ひよこ」日本食に興味がある人にはおすすめできるお店です。 -
Video article 10:58
Enjoy the Vegetarian Cuisine of Buddhist Monks at Kajitsu, a Famous New York City Restaurant. The Healthy Japanese Cuisine, Which Does Not Use Meat or Fish, Satisfies Even Non-Japanese Palates!
Food & Drink- 79 plays
- YouTube
和食の一つである精進料理を紹介する動画 こちら「Master Chef Hiroki Abe Earned a Michelin Star for His Shojin Ryori Menu — Omakase」は、日本食の精進料理について紹介をしている動画です。 日本文化ならではの精進料理について、動画を元に紹介させていただきます。 精進料理って一体何? 精進料理は仏教の戒律に基づいた殺生や煩悩等の刺激を避けることに着目した料理です。 精進料理は、動物性の食材全般、そして五葷とも呼ばれるネギ属に分類される野菜を材料にすることを禁止しています。 食材から出汁まで、全て植物性のもので構成をされている健康的なグルメとして注目を浴びています。 この精進料理こそが会席料理の基本とされており、今の和食や日本食の原型と言っても過言ではありません。 動画の内容から見る精進料理 現在ニューヨークで精進料理を振舞っている名店『Kajitsu』のシェフであり、精進料理の職人としても知られている板前のHiroki Abeさんの言葉を借りて、精進料理について紹介をさせて頂きます。 動画の冒頭から語られている彩りの五色・味わいの五味・調理の五法は、精進料理において非常に重要な事柄なのでご覧下さい。 動画1:03で語られている通り、仏教の修行の一環として用いられた日本食・和食の一つが精進料理で、野菜や穀物に海藻と多くの調味料で構成されています。 野菜は旬の時期が大事だとされており、季節によってメニューも変わることから、訪れるたびに新鮮なグルメを堪能することが出来るのも魅力の一つでしょう。 野菜中心のため旬で食材が左右される精進料理。 そのため、お麩は季節に拘わらずに利用することができるため重要食材となっています。 今では日本文化を知ることが出来るグルメとしてニューヨークでも話題の日本食・和食のお店であるKajitsuは、数多くある精進料理を堪能出来る中でも一際人気なお店となっています。 日本料理の元祖である精進料理の紹介まとめ 今では日本食・和食の一つの形として定着をしている精進料理。 ヘルシー志向がトレンドの今、伝統的な精進料理を召し上がってみてはいかがですか? -
Video article 5:36
Awaji Ningyo Joruri - A Traditional Japanese Performing Art of Hyogo Prefecture Loved Both in Japan and Abroad! Introducing the History and Highlights of Awaji Ningyo Joruri!
Traditional Culture- 156 plays
- YouTube
An Introduction to Awaji Ningyo Joruri for Beginners! The video this time is called "What is Awaji Ningyo Joruri?" (淡路人形浄瑠璃って何やろ?). This is an introductory video on the traditional Japanese performing art, Ningyo Joruri (Awaji Puppet Theatre). Ningyo Joruri is a traditional Japanese performing art made for the masses. Be sure to follow along with the video that explains Awaji Ningyo Joruri in detail, and experience the fascinating culture unique to Japan! Awaji Ningyo Joruri - A Traditional Japanese Culture Source :YouTube screenshot Puppet shows have been performed on Awaji Island in Hyogo Prefecture for approximately 500 years, around the Warring States period of Japan. Awaji Ningyo Joruri was originally performed as a Shinto ritual in honor of Ebisu in Nishinomiya. Ningyo Joruri, also called Bunraku, is a theatrical art culture, and the story is performed by a gidayu (a joruri narrator), shamisen music, and 3 puppeteers, as seen at 3:08 in the video. The three puppeteers bring the puppets to life with their fluid movements. Unlike many other Japanese performing arts, Awaji Ningyo Joruri also has many female puppeteers. The Charms of Awaji Ningyo Joruri Source :YouTube screenshot The Awaji Puppet Theater is a cultural facility where you can watch Awaji Ningyo Joruri shows. Awaji Island is a historical spot that is associated with "Kuniumi," Japan's creation myth, and the Awaji Puppet Theater has a performance called Ebisu Mai (Ebisu Dance) that is associated with this myth. Awaji Ningyo Joruri has a unique way of producing a dynamic traditional art form that incorporates quick changes and the use of large props, creating a performance that keeps the crowd glued to their seats. In recent years, Awaji Ningyo Joruri has been attracting attention outside of Japan as well. Awaji Ningyo Joruri Theater is making efforts to further promote traditional Japanese performing arts, including overseas tours. Summary of Awaji Ningyo Joruri Source :YouTube screenshot Awaji Ningyo Joruri is a traditional art form unique to Japan, and is something we highly recommend viewing if you have the chance. The video introduces the charms and characteristics of Awaji Ningyo Joruri, so if you still haven't yet, be sure to check it out. When you go to Awaji Island, a place famous for the whirlpools in the Naruto Strait, be sure to stop by the Awaji Puppet Theater, and the Minamiawajishi Awajiningyojoruri Museum! 【Official Website】Awaji Puppet Theater: Homepage https://awajiningyoza.com/other/en/ -
Video article 32:48
Solo Camping in the Great Outdoors Is Where It's at! Cooking Your Own Catch and Enjoying an Open Air Bath!
Things to Do- 25 plays
- YouTube
This video, titled "Staying in a One Man Tent and Going Big-Game Fishing in the Small Boat I Bought With My Part Time Job!" (アルバイトして買った小舟で大物釣りして一人用テントに泊まったよ!), was released by "CartopboaterNORA." Solo camping is becoming more and more popular in Japan, where people are enjoying the outdoors on their own. It's very exciting to load up your car with handy camping gear and head out to a secluded spot. In this video, they used a small boat to go fishing and caught a monster! Nothing beats cooking your own food in the great outdoors. They set up their tent in the small boat they used, so they didn't have to worry about it being windy. If you want to spend your holidays with a sense of fulfillment, why not try some camping? -
Video article 1:03
Yonezawa Uesugi Festival" in Yonezawa City, Yamagata Prefecture is like stepping back in time to the battlefields of the Warring States Period. The powerful sound of real flintlock rifles being fired resonates in the core of the body!
Traditional Culture Festivals & Events- 166 plays
- YouTube
Yonezawa Uesugi Festival" in Yonezawa City, Yamagata Prefecture, Video Introduction The video we'll be introducing this time is "Demonstration of Real Matchlock Guns" (本物の火縄銃の発砲実演), which as it's title suggests, demonstrates the firing of matchlock guns. The matchlock is one of the firearms that was introduced to Japan during the age of civil wars (c. 1467 to 1615). The matchlock is a smoothbore muzzleloader. The ignition method is classified as a matchlock type due to firing mechanism. When fired, the fuse comes into contact with a black powder propellant, thus igniting it and causing the gun to fire. The history of guns in Japan begins with the matchlock gun invented in Europe in 1543 that first landed in Tanegashima of Kyushu's Kagoshima Prefecture. Because of this it was referred to as a Tanegashima Gun or just "Tanegashima." According to the "Teppoki" an Edo Period (1603 to 1868 AD) account of the history of guns in Japan, Sengoku military commander Tokitaka Tanegashima adopted matchlock guns immediately after seeing a demonstration of their power, and soon after, matchlock guns spread throughout the rest of Japan. After its introduction, the design was improved upon, becoming a flash type matchlock using a spring as a trigger to improve accuracy. The History and Characteristics of the Matchlock Photo:A matchlock ashigaru squad The firearm before the matchlock was a touch-hole typethat was manually ignited by touching a flame to the ignition port, but a serpentine lock type that was operated with an S-shaped metal fitting was devised. In addition to that, a stock was added, and a matchlock gun was completed. The match lock system that was invented after that improved upon its range and power, and transformed it into a flint lock system that ignites by striking a flint rock. Comparing a museum matchlock with modern rifles, one of the things that stands out the most is the shape around the grip, which is very different. Therefore, it is said that the firing method was to shoot with the elbow stretched out instead of firing with the butt of the gun in one's shoulder. Oda Nobunaga, who held influence over the entire country during the Azuchi-Momoyama era, used the matchlock on the battlefield, and defeated the Takeda army at the famous battle of battle of Nagashino. The firing speed, which is a weak point of the matchlock gun, was made practical by forming teams of firing squads which led to Nobunaga's victory. During the Edo period, the shogunate restricted the possession of matchlock guns. Technology was stagnant due the national isolation policy that had been implemented by Japan's government, and new guns weren't introduced until the end of the Edo period at which point matchlock guns had become obsolete. Types of Matchlocks Photo:A matchlock In Japan, matchlock guns are categorized according to the weight of the ball they use, the place of production, and the school. Depending on the weight of the bullet, a matchlock is placed in either the small cylinder, medium cylinder, large cylinder, or large gun category. The production areas include Kunitomo Tsutsu, Sakai Tsutsu, Hino Tsutsu, Tosa Tsutsu, Satsuma Tsutsu, and more. Replicas made by safe gun makers are used in marksman competitions. Even in many Western countries, Japanese-style matchlock guns are used in quite a few tournaments. They are also sold to individuals, but they usually do not disclose prices and require you to contact them regarding any inquiries. In addition, even if you do not compete in competitions, you will need to register possession of one because it is subject to the regulations regarding possession of guns and swords. A Firing Demonstration at the Yonezawa Uesugi Festival Source :YouTube screenshot The Yonezawa Uesugi Festival held in Yamagata Prefecture in Japan's Tohoku region is one of the events where a matchlock demonstration is performed. The Yonezawa Uesugi Festival is a historic festival that has been held since 1965, and it is an annual festival held at the Uesugi Shrine, which enshrines the Uesugi family's ancestor, Uesugi Kenshin, as well as at Matsugasaki Shrine that enshrines Uesugi Yozan, Uesugi Kagekatsu, and Naoe Kanetsugu. On the final day of this event, you will be able to see a matchlock gun demonstration performed by 700 performers wearing armor, divided into the Uesugi and Takeda armies, and imitating the battle of Kawanakajima. A standing performer fires from 0:43 in the video, followed by crouching performers from 0:48, and finally from 0:56 we see a performer firing from the prone position. Summary of the Yonezawa Uesugi Festival Source :YouTube screenshot In this article we introduced the history and evolution of the matchlock gun. Did you like it? In the video, you can see a rare demonstration of the powerful matchlocks, so if you still haven't checked it out yet, we recommend giving it a watch! If you're interested in this kind of Japanese history, consider a trip to see the Yonezawa Uesugi Festival! -
Video article 22:53
Handling a Huge Flatfish That's 90 cm Long and Weighs Over 10 kg! From Brilliant Artisanal Knife Work to Exquisite Cuisine!
Food & Drink- 39 plays
- YouTube
This video, titled "Catching Flatfish for 50 Years, Zabuton for 15, but There's Still More to Come! Zabuton Flounder Ebisutei, Hirado" (ヒラメをさばいて50年。ざぶとんは15年。まだまだです。 ざぶとんヒラメ<さばき編> 平戸・エビス亭), was released by "99チャンネル 99chtv." Flounder, with its mild flavor, is a top-quality ingredient when used for sashimi. In this video they clean a huge flounder, which is big even compared to other large flounder. "Zabuton" flounder as they're called in Japanese refer to flounder between 70 and 90 cm in length and that weigh over 4 kg. Its size and weight make it a difficult fish to process fresh. The owner of Ebisutei in Hirado, Nagasaki, is the one processesing the fish. Japan's techniques for handling fish are among the best in the world in terms of speed and maintaining freshness. Look at the skill of the owner as he handles the flounder! -
Video article 6:36
A Look Inside the World of an Embroiderer Who Revives Memories With His Craftsmanship. A Traditional Japanese Craft Where the Craftsman's Heart and Soul Goes Into Every Single Stitch!
Traditional Crafts- 165 plays
- YouTube
Japan's Traditional Embroidery Restoration This video, titled "Nippon Teshigoto Zukan x Wakoh-sha" (ニッポン手仕事図鑑 × 和光舎), was released by "Nippon Teshigoto Zukan" (ニッポン手仕事図鑑). It introduces the embroidery restoration workshop "Wakoh-sha" in Kyoto City, Kyoto Prefecture. Wakoh-sha is a company specializing in the cleaning of robes worn by monks in Kyoto City, Kyoto Prefecture. After cleaning these robes for a while, they also began to restore the embroidery of "uchishiki," patterned cloth laid on a table or Buddhist altar. This video introduces the work of an embroiderer who specializes in embroidery restoration, a craft rarely seen by the general public. A Closer Look at the Traditional Embroider Restoration of Wakoh-sha Source :YouTube screenshot The uchishiki, a cloth used at Buddhist temples and in Shinto rituals, is what is being restored in the video. Embroiderers carefully cut out the embroidery that was beautifully applied more than 100 years ago, transfer it to a new cloth, and restore the frayed embroidery to its original form, playing an important role in allowing it to be passed down to the present generation. You can see the frayed embroidery before and after repair at 1:55 in the video. Nihon Shishu (日本刺繍), a traditional Japanese craft that restores embroidery, embroiders patterns such as flowers and birds on silk using silk thread, gold thread, and silver thread, and is a historical decorative technique that is also used for decorating kimono and obi. This type of embroidery restoration involves re-stitching gold thread or stitching new thread. This video shows how the embroidery artisans use traditional Nihon Shishu techniques, such as Sagara-nui and Matsuri-nui, without using adhesives, in order to "connect the beauty of the past to the present. The Embroidery Artisan Supporting Traditional Japanese Crafts Source :YouTube screenshot Hisamitsu Imamura, an embroiderer introduced in the video, is still moved by traditional Japanese embroidery, despite being 80 years of age and is trying to improve his techniques. He also focuses on training young embroiderers so that they may inherit Japan's traditional embroidery techniques. The embroiderers who work in the workshop, both experienced artisans and beginners, learn while feeling the beauty of Japanese embroidery, and by repairing it, they find reward in being able to preserve the past. Summary of Japan's Traditional Embroidery Restoration Source :YouTube screenshot No two embroidery restorations are the same; each piece is a once-in-a-lifetime work whose composition changes depending on the condition of the embroidery and the damage the fabric has sustained. As you can see at the end of the video, the delicate work of the embroidery artisans, who put their hearts and souls into each and every stitch, are connecting the beauty of the past to the present. -
Video article 19:29
A Maiko Performing a Graceful Dance in the Streets of Kyoto! The Story of a Woman Who Preserves Traditional Japanese Culture and Aims to Become a Prestigious Geisha
Traditional Culture- 144 plays
- YouTube
日本の伝統文化、京都で目にする舞妓とは? こちらの動画は「明日への扉 by アットホーム」が公開した「#002 舞妓 美恵雛(みえひな) | 明日への扉 by アットホーム」です。 今回は日本の古都京都で芸妓になることを夢見る一人の舞妓に密着した動画を紹介。 こちら記事では、動画に沿って、舞妓という職業、下積み生活や仕事内容・伝統文化に生きる舞妓さんを紹介します。 京都のお座敷文化・伝統文化を守る舞妓の日常 舞妓とは、芸妓になるために必要な芸能を仕込む見習い・下積み期間のことです。 しかし、下積みだからと言って簡単なものではなく、芸妓と同じように座敷に出てお客様の楽しいひと時を共にしたり、三味線や芝居・舞踊を舞うことが必要になってきます。 舞妓の日中は芸の稽古・から始まりました。礼儀作法やしつけ・しきたりから始まり、衣装・着物の着付け・化粧・髪型・履物など些細な面まで教え込まれます。 また、三味線や踊りは一つ一つの些細な動きまで学ばなくてはいけません。 以前は舞妓になるために10歳くらいから花街で修行に入るため生活していましたが、今では中学校を卒業してから舞妓になる修行をする人が一般的です。 舞妓の日常は午前中は稽古。 午後からはお座敷の準備で白塗りをして舞妓へと。 日々、芸の道へ進み伝統文化を守る世界の厳しさを知れるのではないでしょうか。 日本の伝統文化を継承する京都 祇園の魅力とは 京都には宮川町歌舞練場で毎年行われる京おどりがあります。 この京おどりは若柳流の舞であり、京都の中でも伝統文化を伝えるに相応しい、選ばれた舞妓・芸妓で構成されています。 今回、美恵雛が選ばれ、立派に舞ったのです。 舞妓の美恵雛が伝統文化と向き合い一人前として芸妓になる時 舞妓が芸妓になる襟替えの時は生涯の中で一番の儀式です。 今まで幾度となく舞妓の厳しさを感じ京都の祇園から去ろうとも思った美恵雛。 芸妓になるまでに数多くの涙をしたこともあったでしょう。 世界を魅了する伝統文化舞妓紹介のまとめ 今回は日本の伝統文化を守るひとりの舞妓に密着した動画紹介しました。 昔までは一見様お断りのお店も多かったですが、最近では宴席やお茶席を体験や楽しめる料金プランも登場しています。 祇園東や先斗町・宮川町のお茶屋さんでお座敷遊びを楽しめるでしょう。 皆さんもこの記事で舞妓について興味が持たれましたら京都祇園に足を運んでみてはいかがですか。 -
Video article 4:13
Nishiki, Yamaguchi Is a Museum of Nature! Spend a Relaxing Time in a Town Where You Can Enjoy the Essence of Nature...
Local PR Travel- 70 plays
- YouTube
山口県岩国市錦町紹介動画について こちらの動画は「錦川観光協会」が公開した「岩国市錦町(にしきまち)観光PR動画」です。 山口県岩国市は瀬戸内海に面し、錦帯橋を始めとするおすすめスポットが多数点在するエリアです。 その中で今回の動画では山あいにある錦町を紹介します。 皆さんもこの動画をご覧になれば山口県岩国市錦町のファンになるでしょう。 山口県の錦町は滝の宝庫!日本を実感できる観光ができる! 今回の舞台は山口県岩国市にある錦川の上流にある錦町。 この山口県岩国市錦町には五竜の滝があり多くの観光客が訪れています。 竜頭の滝、龍門の滝、白竜の滝、登竜の滝、竜尾の滝と五竜の滝が山口県岩国市錦町訪れた観光客を楽しませてくれます。 滝の下流にある宇佐川は山口県を代表する清流としても有名。 宇佐川に住む鮎は全国の鮎の中でも最上級とされています。 また、錦川には日本の特別天然記念物オオサンショウウオも生息。 オオサンショウウオ目当てに山口県岩国市錦町へ観光で訪れる人も多くいます。 山口県岩国市錦町の中心観光地が昔ながらの日本の街並み!錦町駅前を歩いてみよう! 山口県岩国市錦町へ訪れたら錦川清流線の終点、錦町駅周辺を観光してみてはいかがですか。 駅前には広瀬映画館資料館やお菓子の館といった日本の昔ながらの風景が多数あります。 また、山口県を代表する温泉地雙津峡(そうづきょう)温泉にも足を運んでみてはどうでしょうか。 雙津峡温泉までは「とことこトレイン」が走り、温泉までの道のりには絶景の数々。 特にきらら夢トンネルは観光客を魅了します。 紅葉の時期は木谷峡も穴場スポットして有名です。 錦川清流線の車窓は日本の絶景!電車に乗って山口県の錦町を観光へ! 山口県岩国市錦町への観光は、JR山陽本線の岩国駅から錦川清流線で訪れることができます。 錦川清流線の車窓からは多くの絶景を楽しめます。 錦川沿いを走り景色を眺めながら錦町へ。 のんびりした電車旅も日本観光の思い出となることでしょう。 山口県岩国市錦町紹介まとめ こちらの動画では山口県岩国市錦町を紹介いたしました。 皆さんも山口県岩国市錦町の美しさへ魅了されたのではないでしょうか。 山口県は日本でも自然豊かな人気の観光スポットが豊富です。 皆さんも山口県の岩国市錦町へ訪れてみてはいかがですか。 -
Video article 9:19
Ginza Hachigo, a Ramen Shop That Touched Down in Ginza Like a Meteor! How the French Master Makes His Ramen!
Food & Drink- 19 plays
- YouTube
This video, titled "Hiashi-Ginza [Ginza Hachigo] a French Chef's Ramen|A Bowl That Defies What You Know About Ramen! [Ramen Walker TV Episode #221]" (東銀座『銀座 八五』フレンチの巨匠が生んだ ラーメンの概念を覆す一杯!【ラーメンWalkerTV #221】), was released by "ramenwalker." This video introduces the ramen shop "Ginza Hachigo," located in Ginza. The restaurant's wouldn't have you believe you're at a ramen shop, but rather at a high-end sushi restaurant, making it a truly new ramen experience. This ramen was created by a famous French chef who was once known as a "modern master craftsman" in Kyoto prefecture, and was perfected using only soup. In addition, the pepper caviar sprinkled on top gives it the perfect aroma, creating a ramen that is both somehow ramen and not ramen. This video introduces Ginza Hachigo in detail, so check it out! -
Video article 9:23
Shinasoba Tanaka Is Characterized by an Abundance of Niboshi in Its Soup. A Taste of This Delicious Ramen Made With Carefully Selected Dried Niboshi!
Food & Drink- 21 plays
- YouTube
This video, titled "Higashi-Ikebukuro [Shina Soba Tanaka] 2018, A Major Renewal in Its Five Years Since Opening! A New Ramen Based on the Concept of "Repaying Our Debt to the Sea of Chiba"! [Ramen Walker TV Episode #218]" (東池袋『志奈そば 田なか』2018年、オープン5年を機に一大リニューアルを敢行!“千葉の海へ恩返し”をコンセプトに掲げた渾身の新作ラーメン!【ラーメンWalkerTV #218】), was released by "ramenwalker." This video introduces "Shinasoba Tanaka," a ramen shop that has become popular for its seafood flavored ramen. The soup is made with Isumi pork skin and anchovies, and the flavor of the soup is very delicate and refreshing. This ramen, that makes the most of all the flavorful ingredients used, has exploded in popularity, making it a very popular ramen shop for men and women of all ages. Check out the video to see the ramen at Shinasoba Tanaka! -
Video article 9:47
Not Only Do They Serve Ramen, They Also Serve Snacks at "Kujira Shokudo Nonowa"! The Soft, Hand-Made Noodles and Plethora of Ingredients Go Great With Alcohol!
Food & Drink- 17 plays
- YouTube
This video, titled "Higashi-Koganei [Kujira Shokudo Nonowa Higashi Koganei] Recommended for a Drink and Some Ramen! Abura Soba With Lots of Toppings to Choose From [Ramen Walker TV Episode #222]" (東小金井『くじら食堂 nonowa東小金井店』ラ飲みにもオススメ!ツマミにもなる具だくさん油そば【ラーメンWalkerTV #222】), was released by "ramenwalker." This video introduces Kujira Shokudo nonowa's Higashi Koganei branch, which is very famous among those looking for a snack after some drinks. The most distinctive feature of their ramen is their soft, hand-made noodles, which is one of the reasons why their Aburasoba (oil soba) is so popular. While the noodles are of course amazing, there's also a mountain of toppings to choose from, and it's become a renowned ramen shop where you can enjoy drinks as well. This video shows you what the ramen is like, so be sure to check it out! -
Video article 9:25
The Famous, Impactful HAIDEN KOKKO FACTORY Ramen RIRIY. What's This Ramen Restaurant All About?
Food & Drink- 19 plays
- YouTube
This video, titled "Haijima's "HAIDEN KOKKO FACTORY Ramen RIRIY" Is a Famous Ramen Shop Where You Can Enjoy It to the Very End! Ramen King Takeshi Yamamoto, Great Ramen King" (拝島「ハイデン.コッコFACTORY らーめん 凛々」ラーメンなのに、最後にはアレが楽しめちゃう魅惑の名店!ラーメン王・山本剛志さん、ラーメン大王・小), was released by "ramenwalker." This video introduces HAIDEN KOKKO FACTORY Ramen RIRIY. The soup is made from a lavish broth with a seafood taste, made from Hinai-Jidori chicken from Akita Prefecture, soy sauce, and chicken fat. It's worth mentioning that there's a "soup-wari" event, where you can enjoy 10 different types of soup that change daily. In this video, you can see a detailed explanation of HAIDEN KOKKO FACTORY Ramen RIRIY, so if you're interested, be sure to check it out. -
Video article 4:29
The Thick Soup at Menya Gokkei in Kyoto Is Just Too Good! This Unique Soup Is Something You Won't Find Anywhere Else!
Food & Drink- 19 plays
- YouTube
This video, titled "[Menya Gokkei] Chicken Daku! Super Thick, Viscous White Chicken Broth! A New Texture I've Never Had Before! [Kyoto] [ASMR/ramen/noodles] Noodle Channel Episode #110" (【麺屋 極鶏】鶏だく!超濃厚肉濁鶏白湯!今までに食べたことのない新食感です!! 【京都】【ASMR/ramen/noodles】 麺チャンネル 第110回), was released by "Noodle Channel" (麺チャンネル). This video introduces Menya Gokkei, a ramen shop famous for its rich flavor and unique texture. Menya Gokkei is famous for its viscous soup, and since so many people visit every day, it's not unusual that you have to wait in line. The other ingredients are carefully chosen so that the soup is just the right thickness, and the chashu and menma (bamboo shoots) are extremely thick. In this video, you can see a video of a visit to Menya Gokkei and try their popular "chicken daku."