Introducing Kimetsu no Yaiba! This video, titled "Crazy for Kimetsu no Yaiba!," released by "Tokyo MX," introduces the popular manga Kimetsu no Yaiba. "Kimetsu no Yaiba" (Demon Slayer) is a manga popular among all ages, and the comic is continuously sold out in stores throughout Japan. In this video, you can see the interviews of the fans of "Kimetsu no Yaiba," showing just how popular it is! In this article, we will introduce the extremely popular manga "Kimetsu no Yaiba" alongside the video. Kimetsu no Yaiba Photo：Bookstore Kimetsu no Yaiba is a popular manga serialized in Weekly Shonen Jump by Shueisha, between Issue 11 in 2016 to Issue 24 in 2020. It is the first serialized work by Koyoharu Gotoge. *Spoilers ahead* The manga portrays an interesting take on Japanese sword fighting, focusing on the main character whose family was killed by demons. He joins the Demon Slayer Corps in order to avenge his family and cure his sister who was turned into a demon. As of May 2020, and its most recent 20th volume of the comic series, it has sold over 60 million copies. It sold 12,058,000 copies in the "Oricon Annual Comic Rankings 2019," beating out the hugely popular "One Piece" manga for the number one spot. Kimetsu no Yaiba: Story The protagonist, Kamado Tanjiro, followed in the footsteps of his late father and lived a peaceful life supporting his family by making charcoal burnings. One day after leaving home, his family is killed by a demon and his sister, Nezuko, is turned into a demon. Two years later, after joining the Demon Slayer Corps to train in swordsmanship and turn his sister Nezuko back into a human, he faces off against Muzan, the leader of the demons. As shown in the video, "Kimetsu no Yaiba" become quite the social phenomenon when it was airing; however, at the height of its popularity, the final issue was released in Weekly Shonen Jump sold on May 18th, 2020. The movie "Kimetsu no Yaiba the Movie: Mugen Train" will be released on October 16, 2020. The film has been attracting a lot of attention due to the popular voice actors that will star in it. More About Kimetsu no Yaiba Photo：Bookstore As shown in the video at 1:52, the manga for Kimetsu no Yaiba, is sold out and in short supply at all the big stores in Tokyo. This goes for not only just the latest issue, but older issues are also low in stock and as you can see from 2:55, there are many people going around bookstores in search of them. It's rare in recent years for a manga to sell out so many copies, even if it's regularly reprinted, truly making it a social phenomenon. Although Kimetsu no Yaiba became popular mainly among young people, it's actually a work that is popular among adults as well, regardless of age. You can see an interview with an older Kimetsu no Yaiba fan from Sugamo at 1:14 in the video. You can also see "KIMETSU CAFÉ in SWEETS PARADISE" at 3:09 in the video, a collaboration café with "Sweets Paradise's" Ikebukuro branch. A popular menu item is the charcoal-grilled chicken curry with the main character Tanjiro on top. Many fans come to the cafe just to see the awesome food art and collaboration goods, and the café is so popular that it gets fully booked with reservations. Summary of Kimetsu no Yaiba Photo：Kimetsu no Yaiba "Crazy for Kimetsu no Yaiba!," released by "Tokyo MX," is a video showing the popularity of the hottest new manga and anime, Kimetsu no Yaiba. With its final issue in 2020, Kimetsu no Yaiba skyrocketed in popularity due to the anime release in 2019, making it a social phenomenon. The manga has come to an end; however, the popularity of Kimetsu no Yaiba continues! 【Official Website】Kimetsu no Yaiba Official portal site https://kimetsu.com/

Video introduction of Tsukiji, the central wholesale market in Chuo-ku, Tokyo This video, titled "The Tuna King Reigns at Tsukiji Fish Market — Omakase Japan," was uploaded by "Eater." The video is an interview with Yukitaka Yamaguchi, a middle man wholesaler specializing in tuna, an important ingredient in Japanese food. He has a shop in Tsukiji Market, a central wholesale market in Tokyo. You can see him dressing a tuna and the beautiful, glossy cut of the tuna in this video. Tsukiji Market was opened in Tokyo in 1935 and it is one of the oldest comprehensive markets in Japan and one of the largest in the world in terms of seafood volume making it an important base for supporting Japanese food. Unfortunately, due to deterioration, the market was moved to "Toyosu Market" in October 2018. Tsukiji Market will be closed in the future, but the restaurants outside the market where you can eat fresh Japanese food still remain. They are very popular, especially among the tourists. This video was taken when Tsukiji Market was still open. An Intermediate Wholesaler Specializing In Tuna at Tsukiji Market Photo：Tsukiji Outer Market Yukitaka Yamaguchi is an intermediate wholesaler specializing in tuna, mainly bluefin tuna. Middlemen like Yamaguchi purchase tuna by participating in tuna auctions, and then sell it to retailers and restaurants. He is a particularly picky about the tenderness of the tuna used for sushi. He is a professional connoisseur who takes responsibility for his tuna and aims to be the best tuna seller in Tsukiji. He's introduced at 0:12 in the video. Tuna, A Valuable Ingredient in Japanese Cuisine Photo：Tuna In the past, red meat, called "zuke" in Japanese, was eaten and toro, a luxury food item today, was thrown out. It was not until sushi became available for the common people that sashimi toro came to be favored. Yukitaka Yamaguchi explains this from 0:44 in the video. His store sells five types of tuna: bluefin tuna, bigeyed tuna, yellowfin tuna, broadbill swordfish, and striped marlin. Yamaguchi purchases huge amounts of tuna to distribute to around 1,000 restaurants, mainly restaurants specializing in Japanese cuisine. He selects each tuna according to the cuisine it will be used for. Many restaurants rely on him as a tuna middleman to keep their business running smoothly. Summary of Tsukiji Market's Tuna King Photo：Tuna Yamaguchi says that the most exciting part of tuna is when he cuts in, because he cannot tell if it is a good tuna until he dress it. He gets really excited when he buys expensive tuna. Yamaguchi feels that tuna caught in fixed nets around Sado Island (佐渡島, Sado Shima) in the Sea of Japan in April and May, when the fat content is well-balanced, tastes the best, but he says that of the tens of thousands of tuna he handles, only about 100 per year are truly good, and they are rare. Because Yukitaka Yamaguchi loves tuna, he has been studying tuna and supporting the Japanese food culture of eating it! 【Tripadvisor】Toyosu Market https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g14134359-d15216764-Reviews-Toyosu_Market-Toyosu_Koto_Tokyo_Tokyo_Prefecture_Kanto.html

Iheya Island, a Remote Island of Okinawa This video, titled "Beautiful Beach of Iheya Island! OKINAWA, JAPAN" (伊平屋島（沖縄離島）の絶景ビーチ前篇！OKINAWA,JAPAN), was uploaded by "K Japan Traveler." It shows spectacular views of Iheya Island (伊平屋島, Iheyajima), Noho Island (野甫島, Nohojima), and Izena Island (伊是名島, Izenajima), which are in northern Okinawa. As you can see in the video, Iheya Island has a beautiful cobalt blue ocean that you would never expect to find in Japan. A Look at Iheya Island Photo：Brown sugar, Okinawa Iheya Island is a long, narrow island located approximately 41 km north of the main island of Motobu, with a population of about 1,400 people including those on Noho Island. The island has specialties, such as dried fish, hitokuchi brown sugar, Terushi Rice, and Kachiwari brown sugar. There's also Kitase Rock, Yahe Rock, and a skerry called Erabu Rock around Iheya Island. "Torazu Rock" is a landmark of the island. You should visit Koshino Hiramatsu, Nento Hiramatsu and Mt. Kuba too. Things To Do on Iheya Island Photo：The ocean at Sugahama, Okinawa We recommend going sightseeing via rental car. The clear beaches, such as Kumaya Coast, Yonezaki Beach, Shioshitahama, and Kubayama Beach are the best place for sea bathing and fishing. From 0:37 in the video, you can see Kouri Island and Kouri Bridge, and from 1:40 in the video, you can see Noho Bridge, Noho Port, and a beautiful view. For sightseeing, there's Kumaya Cave, Iheya Tower, the Iheyason Board of Education History Ethnic Museum, Kubayama Light House, and Kami Ashagi. You can enjoy activities like the salt cruise at the World Salt Exploration Museum. For snorkeling to see coral reefs, book with Diving service North Island or Diving Shop JIN. Access to Iheya Island Photo：The ocean at Iheya Island, Okinawa Unfortunately, it's somewhat difficult to reach Iheya Island. You have to go from Naha Airport, on the main island of Okinawa, to Nakijin, and then take a ferry for 80 minutes. Because of that, there are not so many tourists, which means you can enjoy the natural scenery all to yourself! As you can see from 1:17 in the video, you can enjoy "Iheya Blue," a clear, blue sea, different from the main island of Okinawa. There are several hotels and restaurants on the island, so you can stay overnight as well as take a day trip, and there are buses running around the island, so as long as you check the bus schedules it's not so bad. Summary of Iheya Island Photo：The ocean at Iheya Island, Okinawa Iheya Island has beautiful beaches where you can feel the refreshing sea breeze. Check out the time schedule for the ferry, as well as prices and information about tides when you visit the amazing resort, Iheya Island! 【Tripadvisor】Iheya Island https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g1121620-d1373491-Reviews-Iheyajima_Island-Iheya_son_Shimajiri_gun_Okinawa_Prefecture.html

More About Kuroiwa's Ground Gecko- A Protected Species in Japan The video featured this time is called "It looks like a lizard but it's not?!" It was created by "Toranosuke's Creature Movies" and it shows a close up look at the Kuroiwa gecko, a protected species. Kuroiwa's ground gecko, also known as the Okinawan ground gecko, is a member of the Eublepharinae family (トカゲモドキ科, tokagemodokika) of geckos. These geckos belong to the order Squamata, suborder Sauria, infraorder Gekkota, family Eublepharinae and genus Goniurosaurus (爬虫類有鱗目トカゲ亜目ヤモリ下目トカゲモドキ科トカゲモドキ属, hachuurui yuurinmoku tokageamoku yamorikamoku tokagemodokika), as do the common leopard geckos (レオパードゲッコー, reopaadogekko) who are often kept as pets. The Eublepharinae family of geckos is a group of primitive geckos endemic to the island of Tokunoshima (徳之島) in Kagoshima prefecture (鹿児島県, kagoshimaken). They differ from other geckos in that they have eyelids, allowing them to close their eyes. Due to their underdeveloped feet, they cannot climb walls as well as other geckos. As with other geckos, if they lose their tail it can grow back again. An adult gecko is roughly 15-18cm in length, weighs roughly 7-17g and spawns in the warmer months from May to August. They usually lay 2 eggs at a time, in one month intervals. In this video, you will have the rare opportunity to observe Kuroiwa's ground geckos in the wild. Did you know such a cute creature inhabited Japan? Please take the time to enjoy our video! Japan's Effort to Protect This Endangered Species Photo：Kuroiwa ground gecko Kuroiwa's ground geckos live deep in the mountains and can’t be seen in Naha (那覇) or other big cities in Okinawa. Due to deforestation and loss of habitat, the number of Kuroiwa ground geckos has decreased in recent years. Kuroiwa's ground geckos are carnivorous, feeding on mainly insects and ground worms. Due to their nocturnal nature, you can't spot them during the daylight hours. They are often referred to as Jihab or Ashihab by Okinawan people, and in the past they were wrongly believed to be poisonous. The Kuroiwa ground geckos found in southern Okinawa (in the area surrounding Naha Airport) have a straight line pattern down their back, whereas the geckos found in northern Okinawa (in the mountainous regions) have slightly different markings. You can see this distinct straight line pattern clearly at 0:58 and 4:34 in the video. There are also subspecies of the Kuroiwa ground gecko found in Okinawa, each with their own unique and interesting markings. Due to their collectability as pets, in the past they were poached and sold at a high price by foreigners. In Japan they are designated as a protected species and therefore hunting and breeding of them is prohibited by law. Preventing the Overhunting of Japan's Protected Species According to the Washington Convention's rules regarding business transactions of wild animals, the illegal hunting of protected species is prohibited in Japan. Due to the rules of this treaty, endangered species in Japan are required to be actively protected. Since being designated as a protected species in Japan, two subspecies of Kuroiwa ground geckos: Goniurosaurus kuroiwae sengokui (ケラマトカゲモドキ, keramatokagemodoki) and Goniurosaurus kuroiwae toyamai (イヘヤトカゲモドキ, iheyatokagemodoki), have been added to the critically endangered list of reptiles by the Japanese Ministry for the Environment. However, that isn't the only problem threatening Kuroiwa ground geckos. Non-native species such as mongooses, dogs, cats and the American bullfrog are common predators of Kuroiwa's ground gecko and are contributing to their dwindling numbers. Summary of the Kuroiwa Ground Gecko Source :YouTube screenshot The protected species, Kuroiwa ground gecko, which is often amicably nicknamed the 'living dinosaur,' is a lizard rarely spotted in the wild in Okinawa but can be seen clearly in this video. At 1:48 in the video, you can see their movements in detail as one gecko moves slowly across the forest floor. Please enjoy watching the rare footage of this living fossil!

“The Decades Long Research” by NIMS “The Decades Long Research” is a video uploaded by “nimspr.” TThis video introduces the NIMS creep test, which examines how metallic materials exposed to high temperatures degrade over a long period of time in a rupture load test. Let's take a look at their results! What is NIMS’ Creep Test? Source :YouTube screenshot NIMS stands for National Institute for Materials Science. It is an institution that studies the environment, energy, and resources in order to solve global issues. The 380 pieces of equipment lined up in a huge lab is shown at 0:17 in the video. The lab hypothesizes the piping, boilers, turbines and pressure vessels of the thermal power plants. As you can see from 1:38 in the video, the weights are attached to a single steel bar testing machine, and the test is carried out using large, high-temperature equipment with a heater. The NIMS creep test is conducted by placing the tester in an electric furnace and heating it at a constant temperature while applying a pulling force to the metal to monitor the creep deformation for more than 100,000 hours. The Benefits of NIMS' Creep Test Source :YouTube screenshot It is said that the longest time for this kind of creep test lasted more than 40 years. The creep test by NIMS broke the record of Siemens Germany, and it is listed in Guinness World Records as the longest test time. At 2:41 in the video, the test shows that the metal used in thermal power plants needs to be replaced earlier than previous assumptions. As a result, the safety standards for thermal power plants were revised. Creep tests are a simple test mostly just involves waiting, but it is vital in maintaining facilities and keeping our world safe. Summary of the NIMS Creep Test Source :YouTube screenshot Although the creep test by NIMS is essentially just waiting, it is a very important test to study the strength and durability of pipes and materials used in thermal power plants and petrochemical plants. There are many companies trying to solve energy and environmental problems. Expectations continue to rise for advanced technologies thanks to research such as the NIMS creep test. 【Official Website】NIMS https://www.nims.go.jp/eng/index.html

Introducing the Sakamoto Ryoma Exhibition! In this article we introduce the video "Sakamoto Ryoma assassination recreation = 70 artifacts open to the public for the first time, including letters and the gun of Hitokiri Izou!（暗殺の様子再現、坂本龍馬展＝初公開の手紙など７０点披露、人斬り以蔵の拳銃も）" created by Jiji Press Ltd. (時事通信トレンドニュース). This video contains footage of the exhibition "From the Tosa Domain! Sakamoto Ryoma Exhibition" which was held in Meguro city, Tokyo in 2017. Bakumatsu fans can enjoy looking at a variety of Sakamoto Ryoma's items such as his favorite sword and letters. Who is Sakamoto Ryoma? Source :YouTube screenshot Sakamoto Ryoma was a samurai of the Tosa Clan active towards the end of the Edo Shogunate (1853-1869). He was born January 3rd, 1836, and his real name was Sakamoto Naonari. After leaving the Tosa clan, he became a Shishi, and formed a teacher-student relationship with Katsu Kaishu, eventually forming the Kameyama Company, later called “Kaientai.” A few famous examples of Sakamoto Ryoma's life include the Teradaya Incident, where he narrowly escaped death, and his role in uniting the Satsuma and Choshu domains, referred to as the Satcho Alliance. His life has been portrayed in a variety of TV dramas such as the popular "Ryomaden." "Jin" is another popular historical drama based on Japan's Bakumatsu period, and Sakamoto Ryoma plays a major role throughout the story. More About the Exhibition "From the Tosa Domain! Sakamoto Ryoma Exhibition" Source :YouTube screenshot The exhibition featured in this video was held in Tokyo, as the Sakamoto Ryoma Memorial Museum (坂本龍馬記念館, sakamotoryouma kinenkan) was undergoing reconstruction at the time in 2017. Articles such as Sakamoto Ryoma's wakizashi (short sword), and a letter addressed to Shojiro Goto of the Tosa Domain, were on exhibition at the Hyakudankaidan hotel, which is listed as a Tangible Cultural Asset of Tokyo. You can also see the obi worn by Sakamoto Ryoma's older sister and the gun used by Hitokiri Izou (real name Izou Okada). Other popular exhibits include Sakamoto Ryoma's glass collodion photograph, the letter "nebutonotegami," a letter addressed to his older sister, a chart of the Battle of Shimonoseki, the Satcho Alliance endorsement, and a chronological table of events. You can see these exhibits in the video from 0:14. You Can Also See the Recreation of the Assassination of Sakamoto Ryoma in This Video! From 2:47 in the video, we're shown "Saraba, Ryoma," where we can learn more about the details surrounding the assassination of Sakamoto Ryoma. The Hokushin Itto-Ryu Genbu Dojo, that carries on the Hokushin Itto-Ryu style that Sakamoto Ryoma mastered, helped direct the powerful assassination scene. You can experience the assassination of Sakamoto Ryoma, Nakaoka Shintaro and Tokichi Yamada, by the Kyoto Mimawarigumi in silhouette and sound. Sakamoto Ryoma Introductory Video Summary Source :YouTube screenshot We hope you enjoyed learning more about the famous samurai Sakamoto Ryoma. You can currently see the artifacts featured in this video at the Sakamoto Ryoma Memorial Museum in Kochi prefecture. The Bakumatsu period was one of the most dramatic time periods in Japanese history! Be sure to watch the video in detail to learn more about the fascinating samurai Sakamoto Ryoma! 【Official Website】Sakamoto Ryoma Memorial Museum https://ryoma-kinenkan.jp/country/en/ 【Tripadvisor】Sakamoto Ryoma Memorial Museum, Kochi Prefecture https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g298234-d1818581-Reviews-The_Sakamoto_Ryoma_Memorial_Museum-Kochi_Kochi_Prefecture_Shikoku.html

The Takaoka Copper Casting of Takaoka City, Toyama Prefecture – A Traditional Japanese Craft This video, titled "手技TEWAZA「高岡銅器」Takaoka Copper Casting," was produced by "Japan Traditional Crafts Aoyama Square." It introduces Takaoka Copper Casting, a traditional craft in Takaoka City, Toyama. Takaoka Copper Casting in Takaoka City, Toyama originates from a factory opened in the Edo period (1603 – 1868 AD) by Maeda Toshinaga in the Kaga Maeda Clan with the seven metal casters from Tamba, Kyoto, said to be the birthplace of metal casting. Most of the Takaoka Copper Casting products are related to Buddhist tools such as vases and a large part of the production process involves the attentive handiwork of artisans. The traditional Japanese craftsmanship is appreciated even outside of Japan. The Takaoka Great Buddha at Daibutsuji Temple (大佛寺, Daibutsu-ji) is said to be one of the most impressive pieces made by the Takaoka Copper Casting artisans. This is a rare video that introduces the production process of Takaoka Copper Casting. Please enjoy watching the craftsmanship of the Takaoka copper casting artisans. Takaoka Copper Casting: One of the Greatest Treasures in Japanese Culture- How It's Done Source :YouTube screenshot Takaoka Copper Casting is essentially produced with a metal casting technique where a piece of metal is melted at high temperature and poured into a mold to form the desired shape. Japanese metal casting techniques are highly recognized worldwide, and the metal casting of Takaoka City, Toyama is especially famous. Now, let's take a look at how Takaoka Copper Casting products are made. 1. Making the original model (0:18) Based on the blueprint, a prototype is created using wood, plaster, clay and resin. This prototype becomes the grand image of the final product. 2. Making the mold (0:29) A fire-resistant material is used for the original model, and a casting is made to pour the copper into. This is said to be the most important step. The mold made from casting sand is an example of exquisite craftsmanship. 3. Refining and melting (0:44) Refining refers to the process of removing impurities and increasing the purity of the metal. The refined metal is melted and liquefied at high temperatures.. The molten copper alloy reaches 1200 degrees Celsius in this process. 4. Casting (1:00) The refined molten copper is poured into the casting. 5. Removing the mold (1:23) The cooled and hardened copper is removed from the casting and the finishing process begins. 6. Polishing (1:48) The product is beautifully polished. 7. Coloring (2:05) After coloring and inlays are added, the work is complete! At 1:31 in the video, one of the Takaoka Copper Casting artisans explains “We hope that our Buddhist statues and monuments will convey what the customer had in mind, and will be loved.” The Art Pieces of Takaoka Copper Casting Gained Worldwide Popularity at the World Expo in Paris Source :YouTube screenshot A number of art pieces such as Buddhist statues and vases made using Takaoka Copper Casting were exhibited at the World Expo in Paris, and the name has come to be known around the world. These reason these artifacts are so beautifully shaped is because they were developed through producing bronze casting products adorned with carvings. In Takaoka City, Toyama, the descendants of the master craftsmen of the past have inherited the traditional crafting techniques and skills and have created many works of art. They continue to do so even today. Summary of Takaoka Copper Casting Source :YouTube screenshot The entire process of Takaoka Copper Casting has been done with the careful handiwork of artisans for more than 400 years. "We want to pass down the 400-year-old technique to the next generation," says one of the Takaoka Copper Casting artisans at 2:26 in the video. To inherit this valuable Japanese culture, Takaoka City has held workshops of Takaoka Copper Casting to train potential artisans. Miyuki-cho in Takaoka City has the Takaoka Copper Casting Museum where you can see and purchase products. Some large bronze statues are valued at millions of yen (tens of thousands of dollars). Takaoka Copper Casting products are also available at online marketplaces such as Rakuten and Amazon, and include ochoko (small sake cups), ornaments, paperweights, and more. The most popular ones are made by Takenaka Bronze Works Co.,Ltd. The company donated a 1/100 scale bronze casting model to Zuiryuji Temple (瑞龍寺, Zuiryuji), a temple designated as a National Treasure, in Takaoka City. The temple is one of the most popular tourist spots in Takaoka City renowned for its spring event of lighting up the temple, where the bones of Oda Nobunaga and his son are buried. Tourists can visit the grave of Maeda Toshinaga, who was deeply involved in the history of Takaoka Copper Castings, by way of a path called Hocchodo, lined with stone lanterns. In recent years, nine companies that are members of the Takaoka Copper Industry Cooperative Society have made original "Takaoka Wind Chimes" and sold them at the Takaoka Regional Industry Center, Takaoka Mikurumayama Museum, and shops where crafts are sold. 【Official website】Japan Traditional Crafts Aoyama Square https://kougeihin.jp/en/

Tokyo Cathedral St. Mary's Cathedral" Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo, Japan Video Introduction The aerial video, "St. Mary's Cathedral Tokyo" (空撮 東京カテドラル聖マリア大聖堂), was created by "FUJISAN DRONE BASE - (富士山ドローンベース)," using mainly a drone to gather amazing footage of St. Mary’s Cathedral Tokyo. St. Mary's Cathedral is a Catholic church in Tokyo designed by Kenzo Tange, one of the masters of modern Japanese architecture, also known as the "World's Tange." In this article, we'll introduce St. Mary's Cathedral Tokyo. In the video we see an awesome aerial view of St. Mary's Cathedral Tokyo, which is normally on seen from ground level. You'll be impressed by the beautiful reflection of the church in the evening and at night. What is St. Mary’s Cathedral Tokyo? Photo：St. Mary's Cathedral Tokyo St. Mary’s Cathedral Tokyo is a church located in the Bunkyo-ku area of Tokyo, a 15-minute walk from Edogawabashi Station on the Tokyo Metro Yurakucho Line, across from the Chinzan-sō” building. It has the largest number of adherents in Japan in the Catholic Church's bishopric, which covers Tokyo and Chiba Prefecture. It is also accessible by bus from Mejiro Station on the JR Yamanote Line. It was originally built in a wooden Gothic style in 1899 as an auxiliary temple of "Maikai Juku" (玫瑰塾) but the building was destroyed by fire during the air raids of World War II in Tokyo. The present building being constructed in 1963. Outside the building is Lourdes Grotto, where you can see a magnificent statue of the Virgin Mary. You can see Lourdes Grotto at 2:09 in the video. Source :YouTube screenshot There is also a bust of St. Francis Xavier and a replica of Michelangelo's Pieta found in the Basilica of St. Peter in the Vatican. Michelangelo's Pieta can be seen at 2:58 in the video. English Masses and lectures by a priest are also held at St. Mary’s Cathedral Tokyo and you don't need to be a follower to attend. Other events, such as a pipe organ concert, which can be seen at 3:16 in the video, are also held, and weddings and ceremonies can be held there as well. You can also tour the facility during public hours. Also in 2019, the Pope attended "World Youth Day" at St. Mary's Cathedral Tokyo. St. Mary’s Cathedral Tokyo - Modern Japanese Architecture Source :YouTube screenshot St. Mary's Cathedral Tokyo is a very popular building designed by Kenzo Tange. The building has a thin, curved, hyperbolic-parabolic shell structure, and the exterior walls are made of stainless steel. As you can see from 4:30, when viewed from the sky it's shaped like a cross. There are no pillars in the bare concrete interior, which gives it a solemn and sacred atmosphere. The inside of the building is shown at 2:27 in the video. The building was designed without the use of CG and 3D techniques, and was entirely hand drawn. Summary of St. Mary’s Cathedral Tokyo Source :YouTube screenshot This video "St. Mary's Cathedral Tokyo" introduces the beautiful catholic church in Tokyo, through aerial footage. In 1978, singer Doji Morita (森田童子) performed live at the Cathedral and the CD "St. Mary's Cathedral Tokyo Recording" was released, allowing listeners to feel the atmosphere of the cathedral. Enjoy the video showing St. Mary's Cathedral Tokyo glistening in the sunshine and its amazing structure in the nightscape of Tokyo. 【Tripadvisor】St. Mary's Cathedral Tokyo https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g1066442-d1373757-Reviews-St_Mary_s_Cathedral_Tokyo-Bunkyo_Tokyo_Tokyo_Prefecture_Kanto.html

Japanese Food Exports Today, we'll take a look at the video titled "Overseas Buyers Rush to Get Their Hands on Japanese Food!" (日本食に海外バイヤー殺到). The fact that Japanese food was registered as an intangible cultural heritage by UNESCO in 2013 is still fresh in our minds, but in recent years there has been a global boom in Japanese food, drawing attention to Japanese ingredients and food culture. Let's take a look at some of the strategies used to expand the sales channels for Japanese food, shown in the video! JAPAN'S FOOD - EXPORT FAIR Source :YouTube screenshot At 0:24 in the video, foreign importers line up for the Japanese food exhibition at Makuhari Messe. This is JAPAN’S FOOD EXPORT FAIR, where foreign buyers come to negotiate business deals. 700 Japanese companies participated in the expo and 4,000 buyers from 80 countries and regions visited the event. As commented by a Chinese buyer in the video at 0:58, Japanese food products are very popular overseas because of their high quality processing techniques and safety. Of course, setting up a manufacturing base overseas is one effective sales channel. However, there is also the option of directly exporting processed food and marine products made in Japan using Japanese ingredients. Buyers and company representatives aiming to expand the sales channels for Japanese food products are aiming to sell domestically produced food products with a focus on "a taste of Japan." The Demand for Japanese Food Overseas Source :YouTube screenshot Domestic companies and brands selling bread, curry, Japanese tea, and confectioneries, are aiming to expand their sales channels through the production of products for overseas markets and other PR methods. An increasing number of trading companies and corporations are also setting up specialized export departments within their companies. By developing products for overseas markets in anticipation of the annual inbound demand of more than 30 million people, they are trying to capitalize on that demand after these visitors have already returned home. These moves are expected to increase the volume and value of Japanese food exports. The Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries is also currently working on a project to expand exports by creating an environment where foreigners visiting Japan can experience Japanese food even after returning to their home country. Source :YouTube screenshot Pasco Shikishima, introduced at 1:12 in the video, a major bread manufacturer, is marketing its products for export as being made in Japan with packaging similar to what you would find in Japan. Pasco Shikishima exports bread baked at its factory in Japan, which is quickly frozen to preserve the quality of the product. S&B Foods, introduced in the video at 2:46, also exports its main brand products to about 80 countries, targeting demand from foreigners after they return to their home countries. The company is committed to the same taste and quality as what they sell in the Japanese market. Summary of Japanese Food Exports Photo：Washoku With the Japanese food boom, many Japanese restaurants have sprung up in Japan and abroad. There are also many wealthy people who are mass buying all of Japan's unique ingredients and luxury foods. In anticipation of demand of travelers returning home, Japanese food brands need to have a global perspective. As the Japanese food boom is expected to continue for the foreseeable future, it will be interesting to see what kind of strategies food-related companies will come up with.

Kushiro City, Hokkaido This video “KUSHIRO Hokkaido Japan in 8K HDR - 釧路 [summer ver.]" (KUSHIRO Hokkaido Japan in 8K HDR - 釧路 [summer ver.]), produced by “KUSHIRO Hokkaido Japan,” is a promotional video of Hokkaido's "Kushiro city," located in the eastern area of Hokkaido. You can see sightseeing destinations and specialties of Kushiro City in high, 8k quality footage. Kushiro city, a city facing the Pacific Ocean, is located on the eastern side of Hokkaido. Here, you can enjoy the abundant nature of Kushiro city, and the wildlife unique to the area. Access to Hokkaido Kushiro city is best done by plane, using the Kushiro Airport. There are flights from Haneda Airport (Tokyo International Airport) and Itami Airport (Osaka International Airport) to Kushiro Airport. This video captures the charm of Kushiro City, Hokkaido, in under 4 minutes. It looks like summer, with the large green expanse spreading out to the horizon. We hope you enjoy the video clip of Kushiro city, Hokkaido, the largest wetland in Japan. The Most Famous Sightseeing Spot in Kushiro- Kushiro Marsh Photo：Kushiro Marsh, red crowned cranes “Kushiro Marsh” is the largest marsh in Japan, spanning 4 cities and towns in Hokkaido, including Kushiro city. This marsh is designated as natural wildlife reserve, and wildlife, such as “red crowned cranes” and “white tailed sea eagles,” that can be found no where else, live here. Also, it has been registered under the Ramsar Convention since 1980, to protect the important marsh through international cooperation. “Kushiro Marsh Observatory” is a popular spot among Kushiro city’s many sightseeing spots. From this observatory you can see a 360 degree view of Kushiro Marsh's scenery.Experience a spectacular view reminiscent of the Amazon. Also, this is one of the best spots in Hokkaido perfect for taking beautiful Instagram photos. The observatory hall displays a replica of precious flora and fauna from “Kushiro Marsh.” There are also Kushiro Marsh satellite observatories along the loop trail, which is 100% barrier-free, so be sure to check it out! Hosooka Observatory, near the Kushiro Marsh Station on Senmo Line, which runs through Kushiro Marsh, is another place we recommend. Enjoy the Great Outdoors From Kushiro Marsh's Hiking Course Photo：Kushiro Marsh, Hiking To those who want to experience the untamed lands of Kushiro Marsh directly, we recommend Onnenai wooden walkway and Tsurui track course at the "Onnenai Visitor Center." The Onnenai wooden walkway is a roughly 2 km course at Kushiro Marsh, and it takes you along a hiking course where you can breathe in the refreshing air of the Kushiro wetlands. Quite different from sightseeing in the city. The hiking course also has a 100% barrier-free route, so it's great for those using wheelchairs, or families with strollers. The Panoramic View From Kushiro Marsh's "Norokko Train" Photo：Kushiro Marsh Norokko Train Train fans don't want to miss the Kushiro Marsh Norokko Train. Norokko Train is a train that runs between Kushiro and Toro, and it is quite popular among the many trains of Hokkaido. The 36-degree view of Kushiro Marsh from the window makes you feel as if you have come to another world. If you're lucky, you might be able to see some of the wildlife in Kushiro Marsh. Enjoy Canoeing Down the Great Kushiro River Photo：Kushiro Marsh If you're a fan of the outdoors and want to move your body, we recommend Kushiro River’s canoe tour. In this river tour, you slowly sail through the calm waters of Kushiro River by canoe, and enjoy the nature of Kushiro. You can enjoy another view of “Kushiro Marsh” from the river, which is a vastly different take from the view at the observatory. The canoe tour has many plans: the 90 minute tour, 1 day tour, and the secret location tour. Choose the one that best fits your schedule, or even schedule around which plan you want to enjoy. Sightseeing in Kushiro City, Hokkaido Kushiro Marsh and Kushiro River are not the only sightseeing spots near Hokkaido's Kushiro City. At the foot of Oakandake, there is Lake Akan (Akanko) where spherical moss live, as well as the Akanko Hotspring village. Challenging hiking the Meakandake near the Oakandake is also nice. The mysterious lake “Onneto” is one of the 3 major secret lakes in Hokkaido, and changes its color by time and the angle you view it from. This is introduced from 1:03 in the video. There are many sightseeing spots where you can enjoy beautiful, scenic views, for example, Shakubetsu Hill which is popular among train enthusiasts as the best location for the Nemuro Line as it runs through fields. There 's also the popular fishing spot Onbetsu Shore, the 24 hour operated international Kushiro Harbor, the European style Musamai Bridge that spans the Kushiro River, and the Musamai Rotary, as well as the Takimi Bridge which is a great place to view the beautiful autumn leaves, and the Ainu Kotan village where only about 120 people live. Dining in Kushiro, Hokkaido Photo：Seafood rice bowl This video introduces not only Kushiro's great nature and places of interest, but also many of the city's popular local delicacies. At Kushiro Washo Market, there are many kinds of seafood on display, and Katte Don (a type of seafood bowl in which you pick your own choice of seafood) is a very popular dish. We highly recommend this seafood market, for both delicious seafood and sightseeing, when visiting Kushiro. The fishing industry is quite popular in Kushiro City, with the largest amount of saury landings in Japan. This is seen at 2:02 in the video. There are many other attractive dishes to try in Kushiro, for example, Kushiro soba and Kushiro ramen, soba sushi, Ganpeki Robata located in Kushiro Fisherman’s Warf, MOO, and Kushiro Robata’s robatayaki. By the way, did you know that the soul food of Hokkaido, zangi, originated in Kushiro? You can see these popular Kushiro delicacies from 1:15 in the video. Summary of Kushiro, Hokkaido Please watch this video to learn more about the wonders of Kushiro, which this article can't even begin to describe. There's a lot more to see in the video, and we highly recommend you watch it to see the Ainu’s traditional historical event "Iomante’s Fire Festival," from 3:27. If this video has you interested in Kushiro city, consider booking a trip there the next time you come to Japan! Hokkaido is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Japan, and there is a good selection of buses, car rental services, and hotels, so you won't have any trouble getting around. You'll be amazed at the charm, spectacular scenery, beauty, culture and history of Kushiro city, Hokkaido. 【Official Website】Hokkaido Kushiro City’s City Hall Website (English site) https://www.city.kushiro.lg.jp/machi/foreign%20languages/page2001.html 【Official Website】Kushiro/Akanko Travel Guide Official Website, SUPER FANTASTIC Kushiro Lake Akan (English site) https://en.kushiro-lakeakan.com/

An Eye-Catching Introduction to Japan This approximately 4-minute video, focusing on modern-day Japan as seen by foreign tourists and travelers, boasts a level of quality that has attracted major interest not only in Japan but in various countries throughout the world. This video's footage goes above and beyond other Japan PR videos and keeps viewers glued to the screen. By the video's end, you'll most likely feel an indescribable surge of emotions, such as those experienced after viewing a magnificent movie of epic proportions! Highlights of the Japanese Introduction Video, "in Japan" This video, "In Japan," taken in 2015 by German filmmaker/creator Vincent Urban, is a nearly 4-minute collection of footage of his 3-week journey in Japan to locations including Tokyo, Osaka, Kyoto and Hiroshima. In taking a look at images of landscapes and scenery natural and commonplace to Japanese people which are projected from a foreigner’s perspective, even we as Japanese natives can perceive such images as unknown, brand new discoveries and never-before-seen sights and scenes, and this video therefore allows us to learn about the appeal and charm of Japan in a brand new light. Viewers of this video can also agree that its high quality BGM and camera work is yet another reason for its high acclaim both in and out of Japan. This video condenses a wide variety of discoveries in Japan ranging from regularly seen daily scenery and landscapes to famous tourist spots. Examples of such sights include Asakusa Temple in the Shitamachi area of Tokyo, festivals, Kendo (Japanese martial art with bamboo swords), Buddhist temples, Fushimi Inari-taisha shrine as well as convenience stores, Tokyo Tower, street performances, Tokyo Skytree, sumo wrestlers, clubs and idols, in addition to shinkansen (bullet trains), natural landscapes, the Atomic Bomb Domes in Hiroshima & Nagasaki, Mt. Fuji and metropolitan night scenes. Japan as Seen Through Cultural Changes Photo：Sumo Learning about shifts in modern Japanese culture gives us deeper insights into the allure and attraction of Japan as a nation in the present day. Japan of yore once had superb classic culture primarily consisting of artistic traditional crafts, and as you can see in the video, festivals and martial arts passed down to Japan from ancient times have been regarded as symbolizing the very culture of "Nihon no Wa," or "The Spirit of Japan." It is also well-known that Japan is the birthplace of kendo and sumo wrestling which are now sports famous all the world over. In addition, present-day Japan is going through transitions in which its forms of entertainment, such as manga (Japanese comics/cartoons) and anime (Japanese animation), formerly considered to be types of sub-culture, have been disseminated throughout the globe to be cherished by multitudes of people as pop culture. This signifies shifts in the image of "Japan" in the eyes of foreigners abroad from that of a land of ninja and samurai to an anime & manga nation. The Akihabara area, now the "Mecca" of anime and manga which serves as the center of Japanese contemporary culture, has become a well-known tourist location which draws huge numbers of sightseers visiting Japan, and it's also popular as a town for shopping. Japan as Seen Through Tourist Meccas & Architectural Buildings Photo：Sensoji Temple and women If you're watching this video you probably know that Japan, due to its also being famous as a country abound with history and nature, sees immense numbers of foreigners who visit for sightseeing on a daily basis. Locations in Japan shown in the video, such as Senso-ji Temple in Asakusa, Tokyo and the Atomic Bomb Dome in Hiroshima, are highly recommended tourist spots in Japan which are renowned even on a global scale. The existence of temples and shrines in Japan, whose number is too great to mention here, attracts hosts of foreign sightseers day by day, and this is proof of how Japan enjoys deep-rooted popularity as a tourist destination amongst abroad residents all over the world. Japan as Seen Through Nature ©Izu City Modifying The richness and abundance of nature, amongst other aspects, is definitely a thing to behold here in Japan. Japan's largest mountain, Mt. Fuji, and its bamboo forest, also featured in the video, are without a doubt natural tourist spots that represent the glory of Japan. The view from Mt. Fuji's summit, in particular, is easily summed up by the words "magnificent scenery," and once you experience climbing this mountain on your own, you'll be able to appreciate the thrill and excitement of this spectacle all the more. Such natural splendor is just one more example of a globally sought-after sightseeing attraction highly recommended in Japan, a fact testified to by the unceasing droves of tourists from abroad who visit day-to-day without end. Japan Introduction Video Summary We hope you enjoyed this video introduction of Japan with its simple yet profound delivery of information. Year after year, Japan sees increasing numbers of tourists from abroad coming in search of such fascinating sightseeing spots as well as world-renowned gourmet Japanese food. Japan still has yet a great deal of appeal which, unfortunately, we can't completely encapsulate into such a short introductory video on Japan’s culture, history, entertainment, nature and festivals. We truly hope that this video and article have piqued your interest in Japan more than ever before!

Watch the Video on Japanese Serows! Today we are showing you a video called ‘Japanese serows, visitors to a village (人里にやってきたニホンカモシカ)’. Japanese serows have lived in Japan for a very long time. They are mentioned in the Manyoshu, an 8th century anthology of Japanese poetry, and the Nihonshoki (Chronicles of Japan). Japanese serows are nicknamed the Philosophers of the Forest. They look proud and stand with authority. They remind you of Shishigami (シシ神 Shishigami) (The forest spirit from the Ghibli movie, Princess Mononoke). With the video today, we will look into the habits and habitat of Japanese serows in detail. What Kind of Animals Are Japanese Serows? How Big Are They? How Do They Live? Photo：Japanese Serows Japanese serows (Capricornis sumatraensis) are even-toed-ungulate mammal and Bovine antelope. They are an indigenous species in Japan and live in Eastern Honshu, Shikoku, and in parts of Kyushu. They are not nomadic. Many wild Japanese serows are seen in Okutama and Ome in Tokyo and in the hills of Kanagawa Prefecture in the Kanto region, as well as in Japan's Shikoku region. Japanese serows are between 105～112cm (41-44 in.) long and weigh around 30～45kg (~65-100 lbs). When intimidating unwanted guests, or during their mating season, they make a high-pitched call. You can find how old a Japanese serow is by looking at the rings on its horns. The Japanese serow shown in the video has a broken horn. However, unlike deer, it will not grow back once broken. Where Can I See Japanese Serows? Source :YouTube screenshot If you're lucky, you can see wild Japanese serows in the mountains of Japan. You might even see ones with a baby in tow. Throughout the video, the camera catches Japanese serows visiting from the hills. From 0:18 in the video, they come very close to the camera, yet they don’t seem to be scared of human beings. Photo：Tama Zoological Park If you want to see Japanese serows in captivity, visit the places like Tama Zoological Park (多摩動物公園 Tama Dobutsu Koen), Inokashira Park Zoo (井の頭自然文化園 Inokashira Shizenbunka Koen), Oshima Park Zoo (大島公園動物園 Oshima Koen Dobutsuen) and Saitama Children’s Zoo(埼玉県こども動物自然公園 Saitama Kodomo Dobutsu Shizen Koen). In the past, Japanese serows were temporarily endangered. However, the population has recovered very well, and their numbers continue to grow. Despite being protected species, Japanese serow meat is occasionally eaten in the name of pest control in some regions. Apparently, the meat tastes rather plain and light. Summary of the Video on Japanese Serows We have introduced you to Japanese serows, an indigenous species to Japan. The video shows you Japanese serows for around 5 minutes. It's perfect if you want to learn the habits of this animal. When you visit a zoo in Japan, please look out for handsome Japanese serows like in the video.

Introducing a video of Sadanao Mikami’s Dojigiri Yasutsuna! This video, titled "Famous Swords Under the Heavens｜Recreating Dojigiri Yasutsuna and Ishida Masamune! (Tsuyama Yukari’s Sword Reproduction Project Vol.1)" (天下の名刀『童子切安綱』と『石田正宗』を再現！（津山ゆかりの刀剣再現プロジェクトvol.1）), was released by "TsuyamaCityPR." In recent years, the popularity of swords has suddenly increased, especially among the younger generation in Japan. Also, beautiful Japanese katana have been attracting a lot of attention from foreign tourists to Japan. In response to such popularity, the city of Tsuyama in northern Okayama Prefecture commissioned swordsmith Sadanao Mikami to create replicas of famous swords, under a project titled "the Sword Reproduction Project." In this video, you can see the precious production process of Japanese katana forged by craftsmen. The Famous Japanese Sword, Dojigiri Yasutsuna Source :YouTube screenshot Dojigiri Yasutsuna is first on the list of the Five Greatest Swords Under the Heavens from around the Muromachi Period (1336-1573) to be called a famous sword. It's a legendary katana used to defeat the Shuten-doji. This is explained at 0:26 in the video. It's said that Dojigiri Yasutsuna was later given to Toyotomi Hideoyshi by Ashikaga Yoshiaki, the Shogun of Ashikaga, and was said to be passed down from Tokugaya Ieyasu to Tokugawa Hidetada. Dojigiri Yasutsuna and Ishida Masamune, introduced in the video, are famous katana from history that were handed down to the Matsudaira Clan of the Tsuyama Domain, who followed the ways of Yuki Hideyasu, the second son of Tokugawa Ieyasu. Presently, the national treasure Dojigiri Yasutsuna (blade length 80 cm), which is in the collection of the Tokyo National Museum, is said to have been made by Yasutsuna, a swordsmith of Houki (present-day Tottori), during the Heian Period and is characterized by its blade which looks as though it's shrouded in mist. Sadanao Mikami the Swordsmith Introduced in the Video Source :YouTube screenshot Mikami Sadanao, the advisor of the All Japan Swordsmith Association, is shown at 1:10 in the video. Sadanao Mikami is a leading master swordsmith, who has created many swords. Sadanao Mikami uses Tottori’s tamahagane, which is made from iron sand, to make katana with pressed gold and pig iron. There are several techniques used to forge swords, including "makuri," "kobuse," and "sanmai gitae." You can see the forging and hitting of the heated red-hot iron from 2:04 in the video and watch as the shape of the Japanese sword is gradually completed. You can see Dojigiri Yasutsuna completed by the craftsmen from 3:41 in the video. The replica swords created by Sadanao Mikami have a reputation for being excellent katana. At the ceremony to unveil the Dojigiri Yasutsuna made by Sadanao Mikami, the sword being handed over to Mayor Taniguchi became widely talked about. Summary of Sadanao Mikami's Dojigiri Yasutsuna Source :YouTube screenshot Sadanao Mikami's katana, introduced in the video, was exhibited at the exhibition "100 Famous Swords and the Famous Sword Replica Exhibition" (天華百剣と名刀写し展) at the Tsuyama City Museum and was evaluated as a masterpiece of arts and crafts. Japanese katana, such as Dojigiri Yasutsuna and Mikazuki Munechika, are weapons that have been used for thousands of years in Japan and are now exhibited in museums as works of art. There are times when priceless katana are exhibited, so be sure to check exhibit schedules.

Introducing Eelpouts - An Interesting Delicacy in Kanazawa, Ishikawa "Eelpouts: The rare fish loved in Kanazawa| nippon.com," is a 4K video uploaded by "nippon.com." Have you heard of eelpouts before? There probably aren't many people who've heard of this strange fish, but it's actually a specialty of Kanazawa that's attracting attention as an ingredient for beauty supplements. This video will show you how to prepare some delicious eelpouts! The Unsightly Eelpout - A Look at the Strange Fish Photo：Eelpouts Eelpout is written "幻魚" (roughly "Illusion Fish") in Japanese Kanji. This deep-sea fish is a type of sea-bass (belonging to a genus of Zoarcidae) and there are more than 230 types of eelpouts around the world. The reason why it's called "illusion fish" in Japan is likely because of its wiggly, slimy and grotesque body, and it was never eaten or studied. It has been found that it prefers the cold water of the northern hemisphere and usually lies on the seafloor, eating shells, sea urchins, and starfish that are in the sand. It swims very slow and its proper name is "ノロゲンゲ" (norogenge) in Japanese. The best time to catch it in the Hokuriku region is from September to May. How to Prepare Eelpouts Source :YouTube screenshot The most distinctive feature of the eelpout is its long, thin body, slimy surface, and soft texture. This is because it's rich in fine gelatin and collagen. It has quit a plain taste, so it can be used in any kind of cooking, and it is very popular in Kanazawa and Toyama. As you can see from 0:41 in the video, they cost around 400 yen per four fish, which is cheap during the harvest seasons, so it's often eaten as a main dish in Japan's Hokuriku region. Fried, dried, and tempura are also popular ways to prepare it, and these can be seen from 1:17 in the video. The slimy surface disappears when deep-fried giving it a nice and soft texture. Because of its simple taste, it's used as the main ingredients in miso soup and hot pot on a regular basis. Summary of Eelpouts, a Kanagawa Specialty Photo：Miso soup with bamboo shoots Eelpouts are also called "gengyo," "dogi," "mizuuo," and "sugayo" in Japanese. Although grotesque at first glance, it's gaining attention as a main ingredient in beauty supplements due to its high moisture content and moisturizing properties. Eelpout hot pot and eelpout soup are foods that women should pay attention to if they're focusing on beauty because it warms the body from the core and makes the skin look youthful. Be sure to try them when you visit Kanazawa, Ishikawa.

Introducing the Interior of the Tower of the Sun The video "Opening of the Interior of the Tower of the Sun," (「太陽の塔」内部を公開), released by SankeiNews, is a video about the reopening of the interior of the Tower of the Sun after the repairs and refurbishing completed in March 2018. The Tower of the Sun is a major work of art by artist Taro Okamoto, and is registered as a tangible cultural property of Japan. This article introduces the interior of the exhibit. The video introduces the restored 'Tree of Life' and the 'Sun of the Underworld'. The dynamism of the interior takes viewers to another world. About the Tower of the Sun Source :YouTube screenshot The Tower of the Sun was built together with the "Tower of Mother," the "Tower of Youth" and the "Big Roof" as part of the Japanese theme pavilion at Expo '70 in Osaka in 1970. At 70 meters tall, with 25-meter-long arms, it's a gigantic piece of art. The golden face, located at the top, represents the future, and is 11 meters in diameter. The Face of the Sun, resting between 2 arms, represents the present, and the face on the back (the Black Sun) represents the past. Xenon arc lamps were used in the eyes of the Golden Face during the Expo. Originally, another face, the 'Sun of the Underworld' was located at the basement floor, but it went missing after the Expo. This 'phantom face' was eventually restored in the refurbishing work. The newly restored 'Sun of the Underworld' appears in the video at 0:50. The gallery inside displays the massive piece "Tree of Life" (1:13), which represents the evolution of creatures. Modern technology enabled these objects, originally attached to the artwork, to be restored. Only a model of gorilla with a damaged head (1:35) remains the same. The video navigates viewers through the tower's artistic interior, reminiscent of another dimension. The Tower of the Sun: Visitor Information Source :YouTube screenshot The Tower of the Sun is located at the Expo Commemoration Park in Suita, Osaka Prefecture, Japan. It has been off limits since the event ended, but the prefectural government began refurbishing the tower's interior in 2017 and reopened it in March 2018. An event called 'Rebirth of the Tower of the Sun' was held to celebrate its reopening. Admission is by internet reservation only, and tickets are not sold on the day. To go by train, get off at Osaka Monorail Line Banpaku-kinen-koen Station and follow the slope to the park. Most people visiting by car use the Nihonteien-mae Parking Lot. Summary of the Tower of the Sun Source :YouTube screenshot The video "Opening of the Interior of the Tower of the Sun," introduces the reopening of the inside of the amazing artwork that has been loved as a symbol of the park for years. Enjoy the masterpiece of Taro Okamoto shown in the video. Go to the official website of the Tower of the Sun for more information and tickets. A museum shop located inside of the artwork stocks a variety of exclusive goods, including the popular "Tower of the Sun figurine" We hope this article has inspired you to visit the amazing work of art! ◆The Tower of the Sun - Museum Info◆ 【Address】1-1 Senribanpakukoen, Suita, Osaka 565-0826 JAPAN 【Access】Banpaku-kinen-koen Station 【Admission fee】Adults: 720 Yen (~$7 USD), Children: 310 Yen (As of April 2020) 【Opening Hours】10:00～17:00 【Closures】Please see the official website 【Parking】None 【TEL】0120-197-089 【Official Website】The Tower of the Sun https://taiyounotou-expo70.jp/en/ 【Tripadvisor】The Tower of the Sun (Banpaku kinen koen) https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g1023474-d1407905-Reviews-The_Tower_of_the_Sun-Suita_Osaka_Prefecture_Kinki.html

Plant Hunter Seijun Nishihata If you're curious about what kind of unusual jobs exist around the world, especially in Japan, then this video is just right for you. Many people enjoy learning about unusual professions because of our interest in the unknown. We often find it inspiring to hear about people in unusual professions that are far removed from our norm. This video introduces plant hunting, an occupation that you may not have heard about before. This article will also talk about the famous plant hunter, Seijun Nishihata, and the beauty of plant hunting. Be sure to follow along with the video! Plant Hunting - Searching for Plants Across the Globe Source :YouTube screenshot Plant hunting is an unusual job that involves exploring and collecting valuable plants from around the world. In 18th century England, many products were made from plants, and they played an important role in the country's economy. This led adventurers and explorers that traveled the world in search of precious plants. The people who sought these plants, including ornamental plants and other rare plants requested by aristocrats and royalty, were known as "plant hunters." Although an unfamiliar occupation in Japan, it has quite a long history. Japanese Plant Hunter, Seijun Nishihata Seijun Nishihata is one of the most famous and accomplished plant hunters in Japan. Seijun is also the CEO of the Japanese horticultural studio, Sora Botanical Garden, where you can purchase garden plants. In the video, you can see Seijun answering questions in an interview about plant hunting and talking about his passion towards plants. Seijun hopes to bring a smile to everyone's faces through plants. Throughout his career, he has hunted a variety of plants and has brought smiles to the faces of many. He especially made many people smile at a Christmas event in Kobe. In particular, his project to bring the world's largest Christmas tree to Kobe drew a lot of attention. Be sure to check out the video to see what kind of person he is. What Plant Hunting Is All About Source :YouTube screenshot The beauty of plant hunting comes from the adventurous spirit to seek rare plants even though the environment can sometimes be very tough. In the video, you can see the passion of Seijun when he seeks plants. The appeal of plant hunting lies in the adventurous spirit of searching for rare plants, such as insectivorous plants and other rare plants, in a harsh environment that sometimes can prove to be quite a difficult task. You can feel the passion of Seijun through the video. Summary of Japanese Plant Hunter, Seijun Nishihata This video, created by "SUPER CEO," introduces Seijun Nishihata, the CEO of Sora Botanical Garden, and an honest man passionate about his job. If you are interested in learning more about Seijun after reading this article, be sure to check out the video! 【Official Website】Sora Botanical Garden https://from-sora.com/en/

Introducing JAF Tow Trucks and Car Transporters This video, titled "(Vehicle Guide) JAF Tow Truck and Car Transporter" (【のりもの図鑑】レッカー車・積載車（JAFの車）), was broadcast on the t.v. show "Go! Go! Norimono town!" (ゴーゴー！のりものタウン！), on the Kids Station (キッズステーション) t.v. channel. (*Norimono means vehicle in Japanese). JAF's tow truck is used to move broken down vehicles and repair them. They can repair a large range of vehicles as well. The tow truck, made by manufacturers such as Tomica, is a very popular toy with kids. The toy version of the truck also comes with a loading apparatus used to repair and move broken down vehicles. More About JAF Source :YouTube screenshot JAF (Japan Automobile Federation) is an organization that deals with various automobile related requests and problems, including breakdowns. They also hold several sporting events throughout the year. It costs 4,000 yen a year to become a JAF member. If you were to request roadside assistance and were not already a member, you would have to pay the joining fee and membership fee on top of the cost of the repairs at the time of the request. However, If you are already a member, JAF will repair your vehicle at no extra cost, however fuel and battery charges still apply. Tow Truck Breakdown Repair Source :YouTube screenshot From 1:52 in the video, you can see staff at the JAF call center take various requests from customers requesting assistance. As soon as a call comes in, a tow truck is sent to the site. After arriving at the scene, the customer is asked a variety of questions, and if the vehicle cannot be fixed on site it will be towed. At 3:14 in the video, you can see a boom truck lift up a car with its crane. Using the crane, the JAF staff can lift the car and have it ready for transportation in around 20 minutes. A pivot arm is used to lift the front wheels and fix them in place. The rear wheels and steering wheel are then fixed in place, ready to be pulled away by the JAF vehicle. Due to safety concerns, a special license is required to lift and tow vehicles weighing more than 750kg. Types of Tow Trucks Source :YouTube screenshot There are five additional types of tow trucks in addition to the regularly used JAF tow truck. At 4:59 in the video, you can see a car transporter towing away a large vehicle that a regular tow truck would be incapable of transporting. From 6:03, we see a multi-purpose tow truck transporting motorbikes. There are also two trucks capable of driving down narrow roads, two-wheeled vehicles that can filter through traffic, and four-wheel drive vehicles that can traverse through the mountains. The Difference Between a Tow Truck and a Car Transporter Photo：Car transporter The difference between a tow truck and a car transporter lies in whether or not the broken down car is loaded onto the vehicle or towed from behind. A car transporter is capable of loading a broken down car onto the vehicle, reducing any risk of damage to the car and its large size, allowing for multiple cars to be loaded onto the vehicle at one time. Car transporters are often used to transport brand new vehicles or when moving homes. JAF Tow Truck and Car Transporter Summary Source :YouTube screenshot We hope you enjoyed learning more about the JAF tow truck, a vehicle you might see often while you're in Japan. For our readers with cars, we recommend looking up JAF services online for when you find yourself in need of assistance. 【Official Website】JAF Road Service Car (Tow Truck) https://english.jaf.or.jp/?_ga=2.56236011.1793953263.1594781068-1575817741.1593570784

Introduction to the Toyohashi, Aichi Sightseeing Guide Video This video, titled, "Toyohashi Promotional Video (5min)" (豊橋市プロモーションビデオ 全編（5分）), was uploaded by "toyohashi10484." Toyohashi, Aichi, located in Japan's Tokai region, sits facing Mikawa Bay. It is an import and exporting location for automobile manufactures. Please enjoy the interesting sightseeing spots and delicious local food that will give you a sense of Japanese culture, by watching this video. Recommended Sightseeing Spots in Toyohashi, Aichi Photo：Toyohashi City Public Hall Shown from 3:28 in the video is "Nonhoi Park," the most popular tourist spot in the city, which includes a zoo and botanical garden. You can immerse yourself in Japanese culture at Yoshida Castle, Azumada Shinmeigu (東田神明宮), and Akumikanbeshinmeisha (安久美神戸神明社), so consider giving these a visit as well. The Toyohashi Museum of Natural History, Toyohashi City Art Museum, Kamo Iris Garden, and Imo Wetlands are good out-of-the-way places if you're looking to explore. We also recommend checking out Toyohashi Cycling Stadium, shown from 2:55 in the video. There are also spectacular beaches in the city, such as Ikobe Coast, where you can enjoy swimming and surfing. There's even a streetcar running through Toyohashi, which is shown from 3:48 in the video, so definitely try to use it for sightseeing. Events and Festivals in Toyohashi, Aichi Photo：Toyohashi, Tezutsu Hanabi The Toyohashi Oni Matsuri, known as one of Japan's most bizarre festivals, has been passed down from generation to generation as a cultural event that heralds the arrival of spring in Aichi Prefecture. The historic Toyohashi Gion Festival is held in July, while Haneda and the Toyohashi Festival are held in October, attracting many locals and tourists alike. We also recommend seeing the fireworks festival held in September if you have the chance. In the Futagawa area, the Futagawa Hachiman Shrine Festival is held in October and the Grand Procession of the Futagawa-shuku Honjin Festival, presented by Toyohashi City Futagawa Shuku Honjin Museum, is held in November. These popular festivals can be seen from 4:00 in the video. There is a mysterious local character called "Toyocky" who looks like a red oni and a robot. You can see the cute Toyocky from 3:52 in the video. You might be able to meet Toyocky when visiting some of these lively events. Summary of Toyohashi, Aichi Photo：Chikuwa There are a lot of specialties in Toyohashi. One such specialty is Toyohashi chikuwa. For lunch, you can try nameshi-dengaku or curry-udon. You can also buy hama-natto and Mikawa tsukudani as a souvenir. Buying a Toyohashi brush, a traditional Japanese craft, as a souvenir of your visit to Mikawa is also a great idea. There are many places and events where you can feel the traditional culture of Japan, in Toyohashi. Take a trip to Toyohashi, Aichi and enjoy the festivals and delicious food shown in the video! 【Tripadvisor】Toyohashi City, Aichi Prefecture https://www.tripadvisor.com/Tourism-g298107-Toyohashi_Aichi_Prefecture_Tokai_Chubu-Vacations.html

The Shiro-bai Police Officers' Performance at the Motor Sports Festival! This video, titled "HSR Kyushu Motor Sports Festival, Shiro-bai vs CB750F②, The godlike driving techniques of the shiro-bai police officers!" (HSR九州 モースポフェス 白バイvs CB750F② 白バイ隊員の神業的ライテク), shows the incredible skills displayed at the Honda Safety & Riding Motor Sports Festival in Kyushu. Many riders gather at this big event that features motor sports from all over the world, driving motor sport fans wild. In this MO-SPO Festival, one category in particular is grabbing peoples’ attention: the godly performance by the shiro-bai police officers. Firstly, take a look at the video to see the awesome techniques of the shiro-bai police officers that protect Japan. More About Japan's Shiro-bai Photo：Shiro-bai and police officers In Japan, since 1918 (when shiro-bai (white motorcyles) were first introduced to the metropolitan police department), police officers have used shiro-bai to enforce traffic regulations. In addition to traffic regulation enforcement and patrols, shiro-bai is used as a leading vehicle in marathons and long-distance relay races. The shiro-bai at the imperial guard headquarters however, is used exclusively to escort and protect important figures. The shiro-bai has various equipment such as a “speed-measuring indicator” that measures the speed of vehicles exceeding the posted speed limit. Some other features of the shiro-bai is a siren and a speaker used for voicing warnings. Training and Improving Shiro-bai Techniques Photo：Shiro-bai and police officer Shiro-bai police officers belong to the Traffic Police Force and gain the right to be trained to ride a shiro-bai only after they have passed the required examinations. The Traffic Police Force devote tremendous effort to their shiro-bai training in order to prevent accidents. The large motorcycle used as a shiro-bai is very big. In order to drive freely on public roads, police officers repeatedly undergo training such as figure eight runs and wheelie tests in addition to daily practice routines such as acceleration and corner turning. The "CB750F" Shiro-bai Photo：Shiro-bai Honda’s CB750F is one type of shiro-bai used by the Japanese police. The CB750F used by the Traffic Police Force is highly popular among motorcycle fans and is the focus of many MO-SPO Festivals. As you can see in the video, their performance in the MO-SPO Festival is very graceful and thrilling to watch. Check Out the Various Performances Shown in the Video Source :YouTube screenshot At the start of the video, you can see 6 shiro-bai chasing a single motorcycle fleeing at high speed. They finish going around the HSR Kyushu course, the venue of the MO-SPO Festival, in an instant, and arrest the mischievous runaway driver in front of the audience. You can observe the arrest from 1:00 in the video. Next, we see the graceful performances of the shiro-bai from 2:11 in the video. In the figure eight run, they brilliantly control the large motorbike, showing off incredible techniques such as wheelies and exciting the crowd. Many audience members can be heard gasping in amazement at the magnificent techniques of the shiro-bai. Summary of the Driving Techniques of Japan’s Shiro-Bai Police Officers Source :YouTube screenshot It takes intense training to be able to freely control the motorcycle at will and perform such incredible, "godlike" techniques like you saw in the video. The Japanese shiro-bai police officers brush up their driving techniques daily in order to prevent accidents. Please enjoy the fruits of their daily training and practice through this video! ◆information◆ 【Address】1500 Tairagawa, Ozu Town, Kikuchi County, Kumamoto Prefecture 【Address】From Hohi Main Line Ozu Station, about 10 minutes by taxi and about 30 minutes by foot 【Parking Facilities】A parking space is provided 【Telephone No】096-293-1370 【Official Website】Motorsport Festival http://www.motorsport-japan.com/en/

Mishima Grand Festival, a festival of Mishima-taisha Shrine in Mishima City, Shizuoka Prefecture, Japan This video “[Official] MISHIMA FESTIVAL JAPAN" (しゃぎり!歴史ロマン!【公式】三嶋大祭りMISHIMA FESTIVAL JAPAN) is a promotional video of a festival with a profound history that is held in Mishima, Shizuoka. Mishima Festival is held from August 15th to 17th and it is a summer tradition in Mishima, Shizuoka, in Japan's Tokai region. The video condenses the highlights of the three-day summer Mishima Grand Festival, including the solemn Shinto ritual, the festival music called "Shagiri," the heroic floats and Tezutsu fireworks, and the Yabusame horseback archery ritual. First, please enjoy the 1 minute and 50 second video to your heart's content. What kind of festival is the Mishima Grand Festival and when is it in 2024? The Mishima Taisha Grand Festival and the "Tsuke Matsuri," a festival attached to the main festival, have been known as the "Mishima Summer Festival" in Mishima City, Shizuoka Prefecture. Today, it is called the "Mishima Grand Festival" as a festival that emphasizes "history, culture, and tradition. Held annually over three days on the same day in August, the Mishima Grand Festival is the largest festival in Mishima City, attracting approximately 500,000 visitors each year. 2024 dates are as follows. Dates: Thursday, August 15, Friday, August 16, and Saturday, August 17, 2024 Location: Central city area between Mishima Taisha Shrine and Mishima Hirokoji Station Access: 15-minute walk from Mishima Station on the JR Tokaido Honsen Line Mishima Grand Festival [First Day] Schedule Highlights "Floats and Shagiri Source :YouTube screenshot Mishima Grand Festival, one of the summer festivals in Mishima, Shizuoka Prefecture, is held from August 15 to 17 and is one of the main festivals of Mishima-taisha. On the first day of festival, you'll see floats decorated with drums, bells, and chimes parading throughout the town. Hearing the noises beckons people to continue to observe the activity. Please check the video at 0:22 and see the dynamic parade floats. They're perfect for taking Instagram photos. If you watch the video at 0:31, you'll see the sunset and the lanterns on the floats shine throughout the town. Mishima Grand Festival [Day 2] Highlights of the schedule: "Yoritomo no Kyoaku Flag Raising Procession" and "Tezutsu Fireworks". August 16th is day 2 for the Mishima Festival, and it is a day for traditional culture. On the second day, there will be a parade as well as the formal ceremony of Minamotono Yoritomo raising an army. Minamotono Yoritomo is a samurai with a history in Shizuoka. Every year, a Japanese celebrity performs the role of Minamotono Yoritomo, therefore, it attracts many visitors. In 2024, "Tomiei Drum" who was the drummer in the popular drama, Sunday Gekijo "VIVANT", will play the role of Lord Yoritomo. We are looking forward to seeing what kind of Lord Yoritomo he will be. Please check out the video at 0:50 to see an actor playing Minamotono Yoritomo. The performance and the armor of the participants for this event is very impressive. There are more performances such as the Kid’s Flute Piece and the dedication of Ninjomai and Uyarasumai. At 1:01 in the video, we see the Tezutsu fireworks display which is truly a magical sight. Mishima Grand Festival [Day 3] Schedule Highlights "Yabusame (horseback archery) ritual" and "Nohyo-bushi Parade Source :YouTube screenshot August 17th is the last day, and it is a day for dancing. On the last day, Yabusame Shinji is held, and many people visit to see this exciting event. Please see the video at 1:16 to see what Yabusame Shinji is. Anyone can participate in the "Nohyo-bushi Parade," a grand dance to the local folk song "Nohyo-bushi" between Mishima-taisha Shrine and Hirokoji, and the "Mishimasamba Parade," a dance to the lively rhythm of the local folk song. Both adults and children can enjoy the parade, and locals and tourists alike join in the excitement. Summary of the "Mishima Grand Festival" in Mishima City, Shizuoka Prefecture Source :YouTube screenshot Towards the end of the video at 1:38, many people get on Yagura (a wooden stage) and perform Mishima Bayashi. We have introduced a brief schedule for the three days, but please check the official website for the detailed schedule and program. The Mishima Grand Festival in Mishima City, Shizuoka Prefecture, is a heroic festival that brings excitement to Shizuoka during the Obon season. There will be fair stalls, night stalls, and street stalls where you can enjoy Japanese festivals, so be sure to wear a Japanese-style yukata to the festival. On the day of the festival, you can use the Mishima Taisha parking lot and the city's central parking lot, but it is recommended that you leave plenty of time for the festival as there will be traffic restrictions at nearby spots. 【Official Website】Mishima Festival https://www.mishima-cci.com/maturi/ 【Tripadvisor】Mishima Festival https://www.tripadvisor.com/ShowUserReviews-g780865-d1313050-r606940142-Mishima_Taisha_Shrine-Mishima_Shizuoka_Prefecture_Tokai_Chubu.html

Uenohara Tourism Promotional Video This video is a promotional video on Uenohara, titled "Uenohara - It's Closer Than You Think! Guy's Trip" (実は近いぞ上野原。男たちのアクティビティー編), produced by the Uenohara Tourism Board, in which the destination is explored by three young male travelers. Located on the extreme eastern edge of Yamanashi Prefecture, Uenohara has an estimated population of 23,160 (July 2019). It is also known as the location for the Teikyo University of Science. The video portrays the three young men enjoying the diverse tourist experiences in Uenohara while highlighting the beautiful natural environment. The natural beauty of Uenohara is sure to get you fired up for a journey into the wilderness. And why not go? It's only an hour from Tokyo. Uenohara Is a Great Place to Visit! Does Uenohara sound familiar to you? Probably not unfortunately... Too bad... because Uenohara is such a great destination! The three travelers in the video seem to be having a really great time in Uenohara. This article is to give more detailed information about the places in Uenohara that appear in the video, so be sure to follow along. Source :YouTube screenshot First up, we have Mt. Yaeyama which can be seen at 0:12 in the video. Mt. Yaeyama is easily accessible by car (15mins from Chu-o Ko-soku National Highway, Uenohara IC) and there are parking lots at the foot of the mountain. The recommended activity in Yaeyama is hiking. A 20-minute hiking trail leads to an observation deck where you can even see Mt. Fuji, when the weather is nice. Then they visit Fudo no Taki (a waterfall) from 0:44. Being showered with negative ions, you may get the chance to encounter wild animals. After being immersed in Mother Nature, the travelers go to have lunch at the local market, Yuzurihara Furusato Cho-jukan. "Cho-ju" means longevity in Japanese, and Yuzurihara is known as a village whose residents have a long lifespan. You can try their "healthy diets" in the restaurant that supports their longevity, with meals such as homemade Tofu, Miso, Yuba, etc. Liked Even by Hollywood Stars?! "Seida no Tamaji," a traditional local dish with small potatoes boiled in Miso, is introduced from 1:16. Uenohara's Mascot character "Tamaji-maru" represents this popular local dish. Source :YouTube screenshot Satisfied With Lunch? Time for a Swim! The travelers try fishing at local campground at 1:27 (The campsites in Japan are often more like a forest park offering outdoor activities). Surrounded by vast landscapes, Uenohara features many campsites. Catching and cooking fresh trout on the grill is a great way to spend the day and enjoy the fruits of your labor. After a good time fishing, they head to "Nagai Saka Manju store" from 1:57, which sells a famous speciality of Uenohara- Saka Manju (Manju is a bun filled with sweet bean paste). Saka Manju, although pronounced Saka, actually comes from the word "Sake" a type of Japanese alcohol. It is a type of Manju where "Koji" is used to produce fermentation in the dough, which gives it a unique taste and smell. There are a variety of flavor filled options you can choose from, such as miso, salt, or takana (pickled mustard leaf). After getting their fill of outdoor activities, the travelers bathe in the hot springs to relieve the wearies of their travels. The sauna at the day visit spa, Akiyama Onsen, appearing from 2:17, is a steam sauna where you can work up a nice sweat. It also has a swimming pool to cool down afterwards. The quality of the hot spring is high carbon dioxide gas alkaline. Akiyama Onsen is easily accessible from the JR Uenohara Station. A pickup shuttle bus is also available. You can stay overnight in Akiyama Onsen as well, as there are plenty of hotels in the area. It's time to wrap up the trip -- The three travelers enjoy taking a nice open-air bath. Festivals and Events in Uenohara Photo：Uenohara Tsukimigaike Benzaiten Festival Uenohara boasts a year-round event calender: Spring - Kotaneishi Shrine Fire Festival, Oome Cherry Blossom Festival, Gundari Shrine Grand Festival, Hirano Takyuyoson Campsite Trout Fishing Championship, Katsuragawa Festival, Yaeyama Trail Race. Summer - Tsukimigaike Zaibenten Firework Festival, Akiyama Furusato (Local) Festival, Mushono Dainenbutsu, Suwa Shrine Festival, Ushikura Shrine Grand Festival, Nishihara Fujio Lion Dance. Fall - Yuzurihara Lion Dance performed for the gods, Nishihara Furusato Festival, Gundari Shrine Autumn Festival, Uenohara Commerce and Industry Festival. Winter - Agricultural and Forestry Festival, Ushikura Shrine Setsubun Festival, Mushono Dainenbutsu. Other Tourist Attractions in Uenohara Photo：Sagami River cherry blossoms The natural environment in Uenohara provides travelers with a view of the colors of season - pastel pink and fresh green in spring time, or majestic autumn colors. Mt. Nijurokuya, one of the 100 most famous mountains in Yamanashi; Mt. Gongen, one of the three mountains in Kitatsuru, and also one of the 100 most famous mountains in Yamanashi; Mt. Mikuni, where you can see beautiful Mt. Fuji from the top of the mountain; the clear waters of Sagami River; and Tsurukawa Gorge. The 500-year-old Gundari Shrine is famous for warding off evil spirits and for good luck in match-making. There are many sightseeing spots where you can feel the history of the city, such as Aonori Temple, where you can enjoy vegetarian cuisine as well. Aogoke Temple serves traditional Bhuddist cuisine, known as Shojin Ryori, to the visitors. Uenohara features many golf courses too, including "Maple Point Golf Club" and "Olympic Country Club." One of the most popular Service Areas on the Chuo National Highway, the Dangozaka Service Area, is also a part of Uenohara (Every Service Area in Japan has unique characteristics selling local products) and is famous as a tourist attraction. A Summary of Uenohara So what'd you think of Uenohara? Hopefully we were able to convey some of what it has to offer. Wilderness awaits you, just an hour from the heart of Tokyo! 【Tripadvisor】Uenohara https://www.tripadvisor.com/Tourism-g1021450-Uenohara_Yamanashi_Prefecture_Koshinetsu_Chubu-Vacations.html

About Kuwana City, Mie Prefecture This video is a sightseeing video titled "Kuwana City Sightseeing Video Japanese ver." (桑名市観光動画　日本語ver), that introduces the charm of Kuwana City, Mie Prefecture in Japan's Tokai region. It was produced by the Kuwana City Public Relations Department. Kuwana City is an attractive area dotted with a ton of hole-in-the-wall locations. Check out our recommendations for sightseeing, including historical landmarks and leisure facilities. This video introduces the culture, traditions, and cuisine of Kuwana City in Mie Prefecture from the perspective of a solo traveler. The introduction to the local cuisine of Kuwana City looks especially delicious, and there are many excellent dishes you'll want to try at least once. Things to Do Near Kuwana City, Mie Prefecture Photo：Shichiri no Watashi In Kuwana City, there are many beautiful sightseeing locations, such as Tado Taisha Shrine (多度大社, Tado Taisha), Kasuga Shrine (春日神社, Kasuga Jinja), the statue of Honda Tadakatsu who was a vassal of Tokugawa Ieyasu and his tomb, Rokkaen, as well as the former Moroto Seiroku Residence, and Moroto Garden. The Shichiri no Watashi (Miya-no-Watashi Park) is the former site of Shichiri Marine in Kuwanajuku from Miyajuku (now Nagoya). Tado Taisha Shrine is introduced at 0:37 in the video. This Tado Taisha Shrine is a legendary place where God is said to have descended on a white horse. You can even see a pure white horse in the video. Leisure Facilities and Sightseeing Events in Kuwana City Photo：Illuminations of Nabana no Sato Kuwana City has many entertainment facilities where you can enjoy a special time. Among them, Nagashima Spa Land is popular as one of the largest amusement facilities in Japan. Nagashima Spa Land is introduced at 2:55 in the video, and the roller coasters are a ton of fun! Nearby, Nabana no Sato is an attractive place where you can enjoy beautiful flowers and illuminations. You can also enjoy shopping at Mitsui Outlet Park Jazz Dream Nagashima. Kuwana City also hosts the Kuwana Suigo Fireworks Festival at the end of July every year, which gets packed with tourists. We also recommend the morning market "Sanpachi," held on Teramachi Dori Shopping Street. Delicious Food in Kuwana City Photo：Yasunaga-mochi Kuwana City is also famous for its tasty gourmet cuisine. Above all, the Yasunaga-mochi, sold at the long-established store Nagamo-ya, which has its headquarters located in the city, is a historical confectionary that was loved by travelers visiting Ise long ago. This is shown at 0:59 in the video. You can also eat delicious clams in Kuwana city thanks to it being located near the sea. For souvenirs, we recommend buying boiled clams called "hamaguri no shigure-ni." Kuwana City is also famous for shabu-shabu and sukiyaki shops, as well as spots where you can enjoy strawberry picking. Taste the exquisite local cuisine in Kuwana City. Summary of Kuwana City, Mie Prefecture The culture, natural landscape, history, and gourmet food of Kuwana City introduced in this article are shown in even more detail in the video. In addition, there are still many attractive sightseeing spots in Kuwana City that we can't cover here. Enjoy the charms of Kuwana City through the lovely introductory video! Which sightseeing spots in Kuwana City are you interested in? 【Tripadvisor】Kuwana City https://www.tripadvisor.com/Tourism-g651657-Kuwana_Mie_Prefecture_Tokai_Chubu-Vacations.html

A Look at the Japanese Badger This video, titled "[Japan's Wildlife] the Ecology of Badgers｜A Cute Animal That Looks Like a Bear but Isn't (Japanese Badger)" (【日本の動物】アナグマの生態〜クマのようで熊ではない可愛い動物〜(Japanese badger)), introduces the Japanese badger. Japanese badgers look like bears, but as you'll see in the video, they are actually quite different. Let's take a look at Japan's native badger species! About the Japanese Badger Photo：Japanese badgers Japanese badgers belong to the family Mustelidae and order Carnivora. The scientific name of the Japanese badger is "Meles anakuma." The Japanese badger is 40 to 60 centimeters in length and weighs about 12 kilograms. They're light brown in color, similar to that of bears. A characteristic of the Japanese badger is their sharp claws. Japanese badgers are nocturnal and omnivorous animals and live in units called "clans." When the temperature drops below 10 degrees Celsius, they enter hibernation. They inhabit forests in Honshu (本州), Shikoku (四国), and Kyushu (九州). The average lifespan for a wild Japanese badger is 10 years. In the video you can see two cute Japanese badgers playing, running around, and taking naps. Japanese Badgers - Viewed as Pests Photo：A badger walking on snow Japanese badgers have warm personalities and do not scare easily. Unfortunately, because they often feed on the crops of farmers, they are seen as pests. Some restaurants in Fukuoka, Kagoshima, and Kyoto actually serve badger meat as game dishes. The Diverse Wildlife Found in Japan Photo：Japanese weasel There are other animals similar to the Japanese badger, such as the raccoon dog (tanuki), masked palm civet, raccoon, and the Japanese weasel. There's a Japanese proverb that goes "Onaji ana no Mujina" (同じ穴の狢), which, translated to English, goes "Badgers of the same hole." It basically expresses that while seemingly unrelated, these animals are of the same type. It's similar to "birds of a feather" or "villains of the same stripe." Breeding Japanese Badgers? Source :YouTube screenshot Japanese badgers are quite friendly. Even when people come close to it, it sometimes moves closer to them, albeit with their tail between their legs like a cat. However, if they are provoked, they may threaten other animals with fierce warning calls. They are not prohibited from being kept as pets, but it's a bit difficult to actually keep them, as you won't be able to bring them to an ordinary vet if something happens. Summary of Japanese Badgers In this article we gave a quick overview of the Japanese badger. Recently, Japanese badgers have been featured on news broadcasts as they've been seen coming down to towns for food, due to increasing deforestation. We'll have to do our part to preserve the forests so that humans and animals can coexist.

Himeji Castle's Colorful 3D Projection Mapping This video was created by “beaphoto1” and introduces Himeji Castle's 3D projection mapping event- "HAKUA." This event was held in May 2015. The national treasure Himeji castle, located in Honmachi, Himeji, Hyogo Prefecture, was designated as Japan's first World Cultural Heritage Site in December 1993, along with Horyu-ji Temple in Nara. Nicknamed "Shirasagi Castle" (白鷺城, lit "White Heron Castle") for its graceful appearance that resembles a white heron spreading its wings, it has been selected as one of the 100 most famous castles in Japan. Photo：Himeji Castle post-restoration In October 2009, the restoration and repair of the castle's main tower began, which included repainting the plaster and replacing damaged tiles. Himeji castle regained its brilliance and re-opened in March 2015. The light show, "HAKUA," was held to celebrate the reopening of Himeji Castle as the part of the 66th Himeji Castle Festival. In the 11 minute video, you can watch the entire projection mapping show from beginning to end. Enjoy the beautiful 3D projection mapping that lights up the famous white castle. It's amazing how different the castle looks with all of the colorful lighting. The 3D Projection Mapping of Himeji Castle Source :YouTube screenshot The projection mapping event at Himeji castle actually has a story to go with it. Prologue. (0:51) The title and the outline of the story beautifully appears on the white castle. Chapter 1. Prologue -Birth- (1:59) The highlight of this chapter is the construction of Himeji Castle. You can see the construction at 3:10, where the castle is being built as the cherry blossoms and autumn leaves grow around it gradually. As more levels are added to Himeji castle, you can feel the flow of time through the cherry blossoms, red leaves, and snow that signify the changing of the seasons. Chapter 2. Tradition -Legend- (4:56) This chapter shows the birth of Kanbei Kuroda, who later became the lord of Himeji Castle. He aimed to rule the world. Chapter 3. Brilliance -From Tradition to Modernity- (6:15) This chapter shows the pictures of Himeji Castle drawn by 731 elementary school students in Himeji City. 100 of them have been selected and animated. Chapter 4. Conclusion -Finish- (8:11) White herons dance gracefully on Himeji Castle and a grand fireworks display brings the story to a close. This article is only a brief overview of the castle. Be sure to watch the video and enjoy the 3D projection mapping! It's so beautiful watching time pass in the blink of an eye. The history of this projection mapping is surprisingly old, and it is said to have been started in the 1960s. It became more well-know when they had a projection mapping show at the Marunouchi side of Tokyo Station in 2012. Tourist Spots at Himeji Castle Photo：Himeji Castle Cherry Blossoms Himeji Castle, which is registered as a World Heritage Site, is also popular for cherry blossom viewing. Lots of people visit Himeji park to see the cherry blossoms in the spring. When all the cherry blossoms are in full bloom surrounding and contrasting the white Himeji castle, it's an absolutely amazing scene. Be sure to bring you camera and get some Instagram pictures! The World Heritage Himeji Castle Marathon is held every February and is also a popular event. There are several cafes and restaurants near Himeji castle as well. Check out the reviews on yelp and look for a restaurant you want to visit. There are also many parking spots around Himeji castle if you'd rather drive. Access is about a 16-minute walk from Himeji Station off the JR Kishin Line, JR Bantan Line, and JR Sanyo Main Line. The admission fee is 1,050 yen (~$10 USD) for adults and 360 yen children (as of October 2019). Please be aware that Himeji castle may be very crowded depending on the season and time. Summary of Himeji Castle's 3D Projection Mapping What'd you think of the Himeji Castle 3D projection mapping video? It's not possible to fully convey the beauty of the actual event through words, so be sure to check out the video if you still haven't yet! Himeji castle’s 3D projection mapping event in 2015 was a one-time event, but another projection mapping event, "The 25th Anniversary of the World Heritage Registration of Himeji Castle "CASTLE OF LIGHT - Garden of Light at" was held here and was also very popular. Of course, there is more to see at Himeji castle besides the events. Lately, goshuin (the honorable red seal)has become popular among young people in recent years, and some castles have a similar "Goshouin" (castle seal) to commemorate your visit to the castle. If the video of the heron spreading its wings over Himeji Castle has intrigued you, be sure to put it on your itinerary! You might even get to meet the official character “Shiromaru Hime.” ◆Infomation about Himeji Castle Facility◆ 【Address】68 Honmachi Himeji, Hyogo 670-0012 【Access】16 minutes walk from “Himeji Station” on JR Kishin Line, JR Bantan Line, and JR Sanyo Main Line. 【Entrance fee】1,050 yen for an adult, 360 yen for a child (As of November 2019) 【Hours】9 am to 4 pm 【Closures】December 29th to 30th 【Parking】Available 【Telephone No.】079-285-1146