Agehama-Style Salt Making in Suzu City, Ishikawa Prefecture This 3-minute video, titled "[4K Video] Japan's Only Remaining "Agehama-Style Salt Making" in Noto: Suzu, Ishikawa｜nippon.com" (【4K動画】能登に国内で唯一残る「揚浜式製塩」：石川・珠洲 | nippon.com) was released by "nippon.com." It introduces the Agehama-style salt making process that has been passed down for generations in Ishikawa prefecture in Japan's Hokuriku region (北陸地方). In this article, we'll explain in detail the production method used in Agehama-style salt making, a traditional technique that has been designated an Important Intangible Folk Cultural Property of Japan. This manually produced natural salt not only tastes delicious, but is also packed with healthy nutrients and minerals. Agehama-style salt is highly praised by chefs all over Japan for its ability to completely transform a dish. It's also a popular souvenir to take home from Ishikawa prefecture. More About Ishikawa Prefecure's Agehama-Style Salt Making Photo：Salt Agehama-style salt making involves an ancient method to produce salt in which seawater is poured over salt evaporation ponds known as "enden" (塩田) in Japanese. A high level of skill and a great deal of experience is required to produce salt using this method. This method of salt making in Noto Peninsula dates as far back as the late 16th century when, at the time, salt production was encouraged by the Kaga daimyo (加賀藩主) as a means of supporting the local economy. The locals were able to borrow rice by paying for it with the salt they produced. In 2008, this Agehama-style method of salt making was designated an Important Intangible Folk Cultural Property and in 2018, the emperor at the time came to observe the salt production process first hand. Currently, Suzu city in Ishikawa prefecture is the only place where salt continues to be manufactured in this way. More About the Agehama-Style Salt Making Process Source :YouTube screenshot Agehama-style salt making begins with carrying salt water from the sea in a process called "Kaisuihakobi" (海水運び). You can see this part of the process from 0:17 in the video. Then, from 0:36, you can see the seawater, which has been collected into a special type of round container called a "shikoke" (引桶), as it is sprinkled evenly across the salt evaporation ponds in a process called "shiomaki" (潮撒き). To ensure the seawater dries quickly, a rake-like tool called a "komazarae" (細攫え) is used to create grooves across the salt pan which encourages evaporation of the water by the wind and the heat from the sun. A tool known as an "Iburi" (柄振) is then used to gather sand in a process called "Kanzunaatsume". This sand is then shoveled into a wooden box-like structure called a "Tarefune" with a tool known as a "Shippatsu" (しっぱつ). Seawater is then poured into the Tarefune which washes off and separates the salt from the sand producing "kansui" (鹹水). From 1:38 in the video, you can see the boiling process. The Kansui is boiled for approximately 6 hours after which it is cooled down before being filtered in a container called a "douke" (胴桶). The Kansui is then boiled for another 16 hours until crystallized salt is produced. This is then stored for another 4 days in an "Ideba" (い出場) or Shiodoko (塩床) to separate the salt from the "Nigari" (苦汁, concentrated solution of salts left over after the crystallization of seawater) and rid it of any impurities. Only then is the salt finally ready to be packaged. It takes approximately 600 liters of seawater to produce only 120 kilograms of salt. Ishikawa Prefecture's Agehama-Style Salt Making Introduction Summary Source :YouTube screenshot You can purchase salt produced in Ishikawa prefecture using the Agehama-style salt making process at a price of 400 yen for 50 grams. Other products, such as salt drinks, herb salts, or salt ice cream are also for sale. Salt-making experiences at Suzu city's roadside station (道の駅) are also very popular among tourists to Ishikawa prefecture. This video explains in detail the steps involved in the Agehama-style salt making process. If you're interested in learning more about this traditional salt production method, we highly recommend checking out the video.

Kaleidoscope Artist Koji Yamami The video shown here is a solo exhibition of Koji Yamami, the leading kaleidoscope artist in Japan, titled "A Microcosm of Kaleidoscopes: The Beautiful World of Mirrors," published by "oricon." The kaleidoscope introduced in the video is a toy that contains two or more mirrors, in which beads and colored paper are placed, and when you turn the device while looking into it from behind, you can enjoy seeing the beautiful patterns that it creates. In Japanese, the kaleidoscope is known as "mangekyo" (万華鏡, roughly meaning "Ten Thousand Shining Mirrors"). The History of the Kaleidoscope Photo：A Child playing with a kaleidoscope The kaleidoscope was accidentally discovered by a physicist named David Brewster during his experiments with polarized light, and it was patented in 1817. Initially used as a scientific tool, the kaleidoscope rapidly developed into a plaything, and many kaleidoscope artists were born. They began to be imported to Japan in 1819 and were also called "hundred-color spectacles" (百色眼鏡, hyaku-shiki megane) or "brocade spectacles" (錦眼鏡, nishiki megane). In the beginning, kaleidoscopes were mainly popular as souvenirs, but as talented kaleidoscope artists began to emerge, the artistic value of the kaleidoscope increased in Japan as well. Introduced in the video, is Koji Yamami, one of the most talented kaleidoscope artists in the world. There is the privately run Japan Kaleidoscope Museum in Kawaguchi City, Saitama, in Japan's Kanto region (関東地方・埼玉県の川口市, kanto chiho・saitama-ken no kawaguchi-shi), as well as "Otarugan," the world’s largest kaleidoscope gallery, located in Otaru, Hokkaido (北海道の小樽市, Hokkaido no otaru-shi). Kaleidoscopes can be made easily with just mirrors, tubes, colored paper and beads, and workshops to do so are held all over Japan. kaleidoscope production kits are also sold online, making kaleidoscopes very popular. They are especially popular among women. Who is Koji Yamami? Source :YouTube screenshot What kind of person is kaleidoscope artist Koji Yamami? Let’s take a look at his resume. Koji Yamami was born in Tokyo in 1961, studied in the United States in 1984, and returned to Japan to open a stained glass studio. In 1994, he opened the kaleidoscope specialty store "Little Bear" in Shibuya Ward, Tokyo, and began his career as a full-fledged kaleidoscope artist. Koji Yamami's works are characterized by their overwhelming visual beauty and unpredictable design using glass and jewelry. His works are called "kareido," a play on words based on the Japanese pronunciation of "(kaleido)scope" and using the Kanji "華麗動," meaning "華麗: Magnificent/Splendid, 動: Motion/Change/Confusion. He even has numerous fans overseas, and is nicknamed "The KAREIDO Artist" in English. He has appeared on many media outlets such as NHK, and in 2018 he appeared on the popular TBS program "The World Unknown to Matsuko" (マツコの知らない世界, matsuko no shiranai sekai), catapulting him to fame. The video introduces Koji Yamami's solo exhibition, "A Microcosm of Kaleidoscopes: The Beautiful World of Mirrors" (万華鏡小宇宙～鏡の中の美の世界～, mangekyo sho-uchu～kagami no naka no bi no sekai～) which was held in 2015. His masterpiece, based on Tokyo Tower, can be seen at 0:52, and his rendition of The Golden Pavilion (金閣寺, kinkaku-ji) can be seen at 0:17. His work based on Venus is also well-known. In the video, you can see many beautiful, glittering kaleidoscopes. Summary of Koji Yamami's "A Microcosm of Kaleidoscopes: The Beautiful World of Mirrors" Source :YouTube screenshot This video showcases Koji Yamami's solo exhibition, held in Nakano Broadway’s "GALLERY Little High," in 2015. Besides kaleidoscopes, Koji Yamami also creates teleidscopes, which incorporate the colors and shapes of one's surroundings to form beautiful images. Koji Yamami's exquisite kaleidoscopes are available for purchase on his official website and other online retailers. Definitely check them out. The ever-changing images formed by light and mirrors are sure to take your breath away!

Introducing Japan Day 2018! This video, titled "Japan Day 2018, the Largest Festival in New York City!" (NY最大規模のお祭り！Japan Day2018), was created by "FCI NY." Japan Day is a yearly event held in Central Park in New York, with the goal of improving US-Japan cultural ties. The event shown in the video is Japan Day 2018, which was held on Mothers’ Day, the 13th of May. With many Japanophiles as well as festival fans present, the event was a bustling affair. What Was Featured at Japan Day 2018? Source :YouTube screenshot The attraction of Japan Day lies in its many events. The Japanese taiko drumming stage performance was a highlight of the event, with many visitors enjoying a taste of Japanese culture. There are also other interesting events that took place in the activity and charity tents. Some of these include charity activities for ultrasound screening, as shown at 2:00 in the video. The food corner has a great selection of delicious Japanese food. In particular, many tourists lined up at the gyoza (pot stickers) and okonomiyaki food tents shown at 2:29in the video. Other events, such as a mini-marathon in the Bandshell Area, were very exciting as well. The Japanese Guests Who Participated in Japan Day 2018 Source :YouTube screenshot Japan Day 2018 also featured a number of popular Japanese entertainers. The charity ambassador for the event was former NHK announcer Junko Kubo. At 3:20 in the video, singer-songwriter Kana Uemura can be seen performing her hit song "The World’s Best Meal" (世界一ごはん, sekai-ichi gohan) and "The God of the Toilet" (トイレの神様, toire no kamisama), and at 4:07 in the video, Yumi Yoshimura and Ami Onuki​ from Hi Hi Puffy AmiYumi took the stage as well. Entertainers such as Peace’s Ayabe Yuji were also present at the event. Overview of Japan Day 2018 Source :YouTube screenshot Japan Day is a popular event for people to enjoy Japanese culture in the U.S. The video introduces Japan Day 2018, including interviews with visitors to the event, so be sure to check it out. If you're interested in Japanese culture or cuisine, definitely join in the fun at the next Japan Day event!

A Myriad of Wonderful Sightseeing Spots in Ibaraki This video, "Ibaraki: Ever-Changing Beauty [4K Japan Cinematic]" was created by "Tokyo Creative Travel." There are many attractive sightseeing spots in Ibaraki Prefecture, including shrines and temples known as power spots, futuristic landmarks known as "towns close to space," and spots where you can experience the beauty of nature to the fullest. This article will introduce popular sightseeing spots in Ibaraki Prefecture alongside the video. Temples and Shrines in Ibaraki! Photo：Ushiku Daibutsu As you can see from 0:05 in the video, the Ushiku Daibutsu (Great Buddha of Ushiku), located in Ushiku, Ibaraki, is 120 meters tall. It is three times taller than the Statue of Liberty. Also, it's big enough to place the Great Buddha of Nara in its hand and is even recognized by Guinness Book of World Records. Arai Isomae Shrine, located on the Oarai Coast in Ibaraki, shown at 0:22 in the video, is a historical landmark known for "Kamiiso-no-Torii," a torii gate standing on a rocky reef. Kashima Shrine, the headquarters of Kashima Shrines throughout Japan, is also a popular sacred site. Tips when Traveling to Tsukuba, Ibaraki Photo：JAXA Tsukuba Space Center in Tsukuba, Ibaraki The city of Tsukuba in Ibaraki Prefecture, where the JAXA Tsukuba Space Center is located, is called "the closest town to space in Japan." Mt. Tsukuba in Hokutan, Tsukuba, is a popular spot for hiking and mountain climbing. The most advanced robots come and go around the University of Tsukuba, and as of 2019, the town of Tsukuba is the only place in Japan where Segways are allowed to be driven on public roads. There are a Segway tours that you can take on public roads as well, so consider checking these out. They can be seen from 1:21 in the video. Recommended Sightseeing Spots in Ibaraki Photo：Ibaraki Prefecture, National Hitachi Seaside Park Fukuroda Falls is ranked as the third most beautiful waterfall in Japan after Nachi Falls and Kegon Falls. If you're looking to relax, be sure to stop by Fukuroda Onsen and enjoy the hot springs. Hitachi Seaside Park is a popular, photogenic sightseeing spot where you can see gorgeous, blue nemophila during early summer. Kasumigaura Bay, the second largest lake in Japan, is another tourist destination we highly recommend visiting. We also recommend seeing the Ryujin Suspension Bridge, the longest bridge in Honshu, and Hananuki Gorge, where you can enjoy the beautiful autumn foliage in the fall. Ibaraki Prefecture is also known as a city of food. During your visit to Ibaraki, be sure to try monkfish dishes (あんこう料理), the Mito Chashu (Char Siu) Burger (水戸ちゃあしゅうバーガー), Kasama Inari Sushi (笠間いなり寿司), Hamaguri Meshi (はまぐりめし), Tsukuba Udon (つくばうどん), Soboro Natto (そぼろ納豆), and Sanpin Tako Meshi (三浜たこめし). Summary of Ibaraki Prefecture Photo：Ibaraki Prefecture, Hananuki Valley As you can see in the video, there are many places in Ibaraki where you can enjoy beautiful scenery. After a long day of sightseeing in Ibaraki Prefecture, nothing beats enjoying the local delicacies, and Ibaraki has them in spades. Visit Ibaraki, a prefecture full of charm!

About the Enticing Promotional Video of Nishiki There's probably a lot of people who want to enjoy an amazing experience Japan, yet don’t know where to go... For a fulfilling trip to Japan, you're gonna want to do at least a little bit of research about the country. This can be done through a variety of methods such as books, review sites, and videos that introduce aspects of Japanese culture. In this article, we'll introduce the video “Nishiki, Kumamoto Japan　錦町プロモーション”, created by “NISHIKI KUMAMOTO JAPAN.” This video contains information about Kumamoto Prefecture, specifically Nishiki Town, in the Japan's Kyushu region. Whether you’re specifically interested in Nishiki, or if you’re interested in touring Japan as a whole, definitely check out this video. Highlights of the Video Source :YouTube screenshot “Nishiki, Kumamoto Japan　錦町プロモーション” is a 2-minute 50-second video about Nishiki As it introduces all the unique features of Nishiki, do take the time to view this video before visiting Japan. There are a multitude of Insta-worthy, scenic areas of abundant nature. As for crafts, from 0:35 in the video, the process of a potter creating one of his works is shown, and from 0:46 in the video, a craftsman creating a knife in a foundry can be seen. From 1:23, a swordsman appears, carrying a powerful sword. What is Nishiki? Source :YouTube screenshot Nishiki can be found in the southern area of Kumamoto Prefecture. To the south is a mountainous area reaching an elevation of 1,000m, and to the north is the Hitoyoshi Basin that the Kuma River runs through. This is a sightseeing area famous for its swordsmen and fruit villages. Fruit-picking is available in certain seasons, so for those interested, definitely check this place out. Nishiki’s Ohira Valley is a famous spot where you can enjoy camping. Savor the magnificent scenery of Nishiki to your heart’s content! The fireflies in summer, the red-and-gold leaves of the Shingu-ji Temple, and the gingko trees in autumn are all beautiful sights shown from 1:13. For those who want to experience the mysteries of nature, we recommend the Nishiki Himitsukichi Museum shown at 0:31 in the video. As seen from 0:54, you might even get the chance to see bats. Source :YouTube screenshot For those who want to learn more about Japan’s history, definitely check out the Kuwahara Family Residence . The residence is built in the architectural style of the later years of the Edo period (around 1750 to 1850), and has been designated as one of Japan’s Important Cultural Properties. At the Hitoyoshi Naval Air Station Secret Base Museum , visitors can find out more about Japan in the final stages of World War 2. The Tsuchiya Kannon-do , with more than 550 years of history, is another spot we recommend. There's some delicious food waiting for you when you get to Nishiki as well. Be sure to check out Nishiki Horumon Street, where there are many restaurants serving horumon (beef or pork offal) dishes. Things to Note When Visiting Nishiki Source :YouTube screenshot Here are some things to note before going sightseeing in Nishiki. Before setting off, besides the video introduced here, there are other sources to check for information. Nishiki’s homepage contains information about various sightseeing areas. When planning your sightseeing schedule, be sure to pay attention to each area's opening hours as well as regular holidays. The next point of note is what to do in Nishiki. For those who enjoy physical activity, there are places such as the Rafting HEART sports complex, as well as Nishiki Kurando Park. For those who want to check out Nishiki’s specialty products, make sure your stop by the Roadside Station Nishiki Farmer’s Market. Located right beside Roadside Station Nishiki, various specialty goods can be purchased at the market. This area is also known for its abundant wild roses, the sight of which can be enjoyed from late May to early June. Also, do make sure to plan the right time for your trip if you hope to view autumn scenery, summer fireflies, or take part in events such as the Nishiki Festival. Furthermore, traditional crafts such as akazu yaki, as seen from 0:35 in the video, are also famous. At the Toshogama Factory, you can even try your hand at pottery. Summary of the Introduction to Nishiki Source :YouTube screenshot In Nishiki, there are many charming sightseeing spots, so do include this town on your list of places to visit in Japan. There are so many interesting areas that it’s impossible to visit them all in one day. Around Nishiki there are many hotels and ryokans available, so we recommend planning an overnight stay. Furthermore, the Hometown Tax is applicable to souvenirs, the local cuisine, as well as fruits such as peaches, pears and chestnuts. Definitely check those out as well! The video introduced in this article neatly captures the charm of Nishiki, so for those interested in Japanese culture and/or wilderness, do take a look. You're sure to feel the urge to make a trip to Nishiki. 【Official Website】 Kumamoto Prefecture Kuma Village Office http://www.kumamura.com/gyousei/

Moomin Valley Park" in Metza, Hanno City, Saitama Prefecture Video Introduction Moomin Valley Park, an amusement park with a good reputation on travel and tourism websites alike, is located in the suburban leisure facility "Metsa" in Hanno City (飯能市, Hanno shi), Saitama Prefecture, in Japan's Kanto Region. "Moomin Valley Park PV" is the official video of Moomin Valley Park As you can see from 0:08 in the video, by passing through the welcome gate of Moomin Valley Park you'll find yourself looking at a superb view of Scandinavia! You can enjoy an extraordinary day by taking a walk or sightseeing throughout the park. Moomin Valley Park and Metsa Village in "Metsa" are also pet friendly! Although the video is short (less than 2 minutes), it is packed full of the charm that Moomin Valley Park has to offer. By watching the video, you'll be lost in the world of "Moomin"! So what exactly is Moomin, and what are the recommended sightseeing attractions of Moomin Valley Park? Source :YouTube screenshot "Moomin" is a collective term for novels, picture books, manga, and anime in the fairy tale "Moomin Series" by the Finnish writer Tove Jansson. Moomin looks like a hippopotamus, but is actually a troll (a type of fairy in Scandinavian lore. Not the big scary ones like in Harry Potter). The earliest Japanese translation of Moomin's novel was "Moominland Midwinter" published by Kodansha in 1964, and was later came to be loved by many people in Japan. Even celebrated through various genres such as manga and TV animation. There is also "Moomin World" where you can experience the world of Moomin in Finland, and it is so popular that they offer tours for just the park. The Moomin Valley Park, which was opened in 2019 around Lake Miyazawa in Hanno City, Saitama Prefecture, introduced in this video, is also a theme park where you can try a variety of different experiences that feel just like being in the real park in Finland! "POUKAMA", introduced at 0:18 in the video, is an incredible spot where you can meet Moomin's friends as well as the HATTIFATTENERS. Soure :YouTube screenshot YKSINÄISET VUORET, introduced at 0:47 in the video, is perfect for families who want to frolic in nature, enjoy something athletic, or climb around in tree houses. Take a tour of Moominpapa's bathing hut, Uimahuone, a lighthouse by the lake (Majakka), and Snufkin's tent. MUUMILAAKSO (Moomin Valley area), introduced from 1:04 in the video, is an area containing "Emma Teatteri" or the "Emma Theatre", The Orchestra of the Sea (Merenhuiske), and a photo studio called “Muikku foto” where you can take pictures with all the different characters. The Moomin residence where Moomins live is also a symbol of Moomin Valley Park. There is even a guided tour, where the staff introduce the Moomin residence using stories and episodes from Moomin. We also get a glimpse into the world of Moomin through the "Nature of Moomin Valley". The Experience of "Moomin Valley Park"! "KOKEMUS" introduced from 1:23 in the video means "experience" in Finnish. You can have a fun time at the interactive exhibition facility decorated with Moomin and Snufkin objects. Also, be sure to stop be the Little Miino Play Spot theatre attraction. You'll surely be drawn into the world of Moomin by Pikku Myyn leikkipaikka. Events and workshops are also held in the park, so we definitely recommend participating for a full Moomin experience. Illumination events and projection mapping are also gaining popularity in the park. After sightseeing, if you feel like buying souvenirs such as mugs or other limited time merchandise, be sure to stop by Muumilaakso kauppa. By sending it through the Posti post box next to the shop you'll receive an original design Moomin Valley Park stamp. You can also have lunch at the cafe restaurant "Lettula" where you can enjoy a meal centered on Moomin Mama's specialty pancake, which can be seen at 0:32 in the video. If the weather is nice, they also have terrace seating available, so you can take a break while immersing yourself in the world of Moomin. There's also a restaurant in the Moomin Valley (Muumilaakso ruokala)! Moomin Valley Park Sightseeing Video Summary Source :YouTube screenshot In less than two minutes of video, we see plenty of attractions that Moomin Valley Park, a new tourist attraction in Saitama Prefecture, has to offer. If you want to be sure to get your fill of sightseeing, we recommend that you book a trip and stay at Hotel Marroad Chain or the Rembrandt Group Hotel, a Moomin Valley Park official hotel. Be sure to visit Moomin Valley Park, where you can enjoy the world of Moomin! On weekends and holidays, it's a good idea to check if the park is busy before going out. ◆Moomin Valley Park Facility Overview◆ 【Address】 357-3-0001 Miyazawa, Hanno City, Saitama Prefecture 【Access】 13 minutes by bus from Hanno Station on the JR Hachiko Line or Hanno Station on Seibu Ikebukuro Line 【Operating Hours】From 10:00 to 20:00 【Closed Days】Irregular holidays 【Parking】Available. Free on weekdays, up to 1500 yen on weekends and holidays 【Telephone No】0570-001-630 【Entrance fee】Adults (junior high school students and older) 1500 yen, Children (4 years and older) 1000 yen (* as of January 2020) 【Official Website】Moomin Valley Park Metsa Village | metsa https://metsa-hanno.com/en/ 【Official Website】Official Hotel Marroad Chain https://www.marroad.jp/eindex.htm

Suruga Bamboo Sen-suji-zaiku, a Traditional Craft, Video Introduction of Craftsmanship in Shizuoka City, Shizuoka Prefecture This is a promotional video for Suruga Take Sensuji Zaiku (Suruga Bamboo Ware), created by Aoyama Square, a shop specializing in traditional Japanese crafts. Suruga Bamboo Ware is a traditional craft made from bamboo stems. Created using professional techniques whereby the craftsman creates flower vases, bug cages, and handbags by assembling thin strips cut from bamboo stems. In recent years, it has become popular with more modern items, such as bags and wind chimes. Today, we'll introduce in detail the highly valued traditional Japanese craft, Suruga Bamboo Ware. Be sure to follow along with the video! The History of Suruga Bamboo Ware ©SUN Modifying Due to rich bamboo resources, bamboo crafts were commonly used in daily life from olden times in the Suruga area, in Shizuoka prefecture. The origin of the craft is rooted in ancient history. Bamboo products like baskets and cages have been excavated from Toro ruins in this area, major ruins of the Yayoi period. In the Edo period, bamboo crafts established a position as side jobs for samurai. After retiring from the shogunate, Tokugawa Ieyasu lived in Sunpu Castle, and a local culture of bamboo craftsmen was established in the Suruga area. Suruga Bamboo Ware was recognized as national traditional craft by the Ministry of International Trade and Industry in 1976. How Suruga Bamboo Ware Is Made Source :YouTube screenshot The production process of Suruga Bamboo Ware is divided into 4 parts: Measuring and cutting bamboo, Bending, Weaving, and Assembly. Japanese timber bamboo (Madake) or Moso bamboo (Mosochiku) are used as materials, and strips are cut from their stalks. Flat strips are used for bamboo crafts in other areas, but Suruga Bamboo Ware uses round cut strips. They are made using a unique technique that involves bending the strips into round shapes and connecting them through weaving. The distinctive feature of Suruga Bamboo Ware is that all processes, from the cutting and measuring of bamboo to the finishing touches, are done by a single craftsman. A more detailed process is shown in the video at 0:25. Please enjoy the techniques of Suruga Bamboo Ware craftsman, Takahide Sugiyama. Suruga Bamboo Ware Products Source :YouTube screenshot There are many different Suruga Bamboo Ware products; snack trays, which are great for hosting guests, flower vases, tea cup saucers, small pouches, lightings such as lanterns and lamps, wind chimes/desktop wind bells, bug cages, and more. Beautiful Japanese style handbags are also popular. These products can be purchased on amazon and Japan’s major online retailer, Rakuten. Prices range from several thousands to several tens of thousands of Japanese yen (tens to hundreds of dollars), depending on the product. Summary of Suruga Bamboo Ware As introduced in the video, Suruga Bamboo Ware is traditional Japanese craft handmade by a single artisan. If you're looking to take in some Japanese culture in your daily life, we recommend purchasing some Suruga Bamboo Ware products. They make great souvenirs and gifts as well. 【Official website】Suruga Bamboo Ware "Shizuoka Bamboo-crafts Cooperative" http://www.takesensuji.jp/?mode=f8 【Official website】Japan Traditional Crafts Aoyama Square https://kougeihin.jp/en/

The Bonin Flying Fox! This video, titled "Bonin Flying Fox" (オガサワラオオコウモリ), is an informational video that contains footage of the Bonin flying fox. It was posted by "Chichijima Polaris." The Bonin flying fox is an endangered species of bats whose only habitat is the Ogasawara Islands in Tokyo Prefecture. The video contains footage of the Bonin flying fox eating pandan fruit and moving around in the trees. From 0:41 in the video, you can hear the screeching cry of the Bonin flying fox. A Closer Look at the Bonin Flying Fox Photo：Sleeping Bonin fox The Bonin flying fox is a mammal belonging to the Pteropus genus, Pteropadidae family, Chiroptera order and Mammalia class. Its habitats are said to be limited to Chichijima Island (父島, Chichijima), Hahajima Island (母島, Hahajima), North Iwo Jima (北硫黄島, Kitaioto) and South Iwo Jima (南硫黄島, Minamioto). The Bonin flying fox is about 20-25 cm long with forearms that are about 13-15 cm long. It is a nocturnal herbivore, and is seen as a pest because it feeds on the citrus fruits and other such things on the island. However, the reason for this is actually a lack of food; it’s estimated that only about 100 of them currently exist. They were designated as a protected species in 1969 and began to be protected as a Domestically Endangered Species of Wild Flora and Fauna in 2009. Where to Find a Bonin Flying Fox Photo：Bat The Bonin flying fox introduced in the video is very cute (granted it's a bat). On the Ogasawara Islands, there is a night tour where you can gaze at star-filled skies, something you can only find on a remote island! On this night tour, you can observe Bonin flying foxes as well as glow in the dark mushrooms and other natural scenery. The Bonin flying fox cannot be kept as a pet, as it is an endangered species, but you can keep bats as a pet depending on the species. If you're interested in bat-keeping and looking for a new friend, be sure to stop by a pet shop to gather information on them. Summary of the Bonin Flying Foxe Source :YouTube screenshot In this short, 2-minute video, there's plenty of footage of the cute Bonin flying fox. Be sure to watch the video to check out the cute little critter! The Bonin flying fox was previously put on a special stamp as part of a nature conservation series and is popular among stamp collectors. If you were captivated by the cuteness of the Bonin flying fox, keep your eyes peeled for these stamps or other bat-themed products!

Traditional Japanese Gourmet! Introducing Katakami Soy Sauce From Nara Prefecture This video, titled "[Beautiful Japan] Nara｜Gose Katakami Soy Sauce" (【美しき日本】奈良 御所 片上醤油), was released by "Nippon Archives" (ニッポンアーカイブス). Soy sauce is an indispensable seasoning for Japanese cuisine, which Japan is proud to present to the world. It is such a versatile seasoning that it's difficult to find ingredients that don't go with soy sauce. There is a wide variety of soy sauces, and each has a different culture and recipe, from manufacturing methods to raw ingredients. This time we'll be introducing Katakami Shoyu (Soy Sauce), a long-established brewery in Nara Prefecture. You can see the deep world of Katakami Soy Sauce that the craftsmen talk about, so be sure to watch the video to see all of the details. Traditional Japanese Gourmet! The Tradition and History of Katakami Soy Sauce From Nara Prefecture Source :YouTube screenshot The Katakami Soy Sauce Brewery is located in Gose, Nara in Japan's Kansai Region. You can Katakami Soy Sauce's brewery from 0:19 in the video. Soy sauce is a traditional seasoning that has been handed down since ancient times in Japan and is made by putting soybeans in a large vat and fermenting and aging them. Its taste and aroma have attracted a great deal of attention in the world of gourmet cooking. Katakami Soy Sauce is a long-established soy sauce brewery founded in 1931. In a quiet village at the foot of the mountain, soybeans from Nara prefecture are used as the main raw ingredient, and craftsmen have handed down the traditional Japanese method of making soy sauce, which involves fermenting and aging soy beans in a large tub made of cedar. Of course, the soy sauce is additive-free and unadjusted, so it would not be possible to produce without the skills of skilled craftsmen. The supreme Katakami Soy Sauce made with time and effort can be purchased online. Also, if you make a reservation in advance, you can even visit the brewery! Be sure to check it out Traditional Japanese Gourmet! How To Make Katakami Soy Sauce From Nara Prefecture Source :YouTube screenshot Katakami soy sauce is made by the same process as traditional soy sauce making, except that it uses soybeans from Nara prefecture and homemade koji mold as an ingredient. Here, we will briefly explain how to make and produce traditional soy sauce, so be sure to follow along with the video as it's filled with the secrets of soy sauce! - Making Koji Mold 1. Wheat is roasted until it is charred and then crushed roughly with a pestle. 2. Soybeans are soaked in water overnight and then boiled in a kettle. 3. The soybean broth is discarded and the remains are combined with roasted and crushed wheat. 4. Koji mold is mixed in and left in a room kept at 30 degrees for approximately 3 days (Video: 3:35 ～] - From here, a container is filled with the mixture in a mountain shape to keep it warm, and when self-heating begins, it is flattened to dissipate heat. - It's important to be careful with temperature control as the activity of koji mold will stop when the temperature rises above 40 degrees Celsius. 5. When the mixture has a green tinge, it is soaked in salt water. 6. The mixture is prepared at a ratio of soybean 1, wheat 1, 20% salt water 3. 7. The mixture is stored in a cool place, with the whole vat being stirred once every 3 days and being left to ferment for about 2 months. 8. The mixture is aged for 6 months to 1 year (brewing). 9. The liquid is warmed to approximately 70 degrees and sterilized (heat is applied and the production of moromi (unrefined soy-sauce) is complete) 10. It is then spread on a clean cloth, folded, and pressure is applied and it is slowly squeezed out (Video: 4:00 ～] 11. After that they bottle it and it's done! Traditional Japanese Gourmet! Summary of Katakami Soy Sauce in Nara Prefecture Source :YouTube screenshot Katakami Soy Sauce from Nara prefecture, which is currently attracting a lot of attention as a traditional Japanese gourmet seasoning, cannot be mass-produced, so it's recommended to reserve gifts and purchases as soon as possible. In addition to Katakami Soy Sauce, there are several other well-established soy sauce breweries in Nara prefecture. Daimon Shoyu (Soy Sauce), which has been in business for over 100 years, is one such brewery. The taste of long-aged naturally brewed soy sauce that has been passed down from generation to generation creates a versatile gourmet seasoning that can be used with nearly any ingredients. Consider purchasing some delicious soy sauce during your next trip to Japan! The video also talks about the hardships and passions of the brewery craftsmen making the Katakami soy sauce. Learning about the struggles of the brewers makes the soy sauce that they put their heart and soul into taste even more delicious.

Video introduction of "Meiji Jingu Shrine" in Shibuya Ward, Tokyo, a popular sightseeing spot This 4-minute long video, titled "Meiji-Jingu – Tokyo - 4K Ultra HD," was released by "Tokyo Street View – Japan The Beautiful." It is an introductory video of Meiji Jingu and introduces the highlights of the magnificent shrine. Meiji Jingu (Meiji Shrine) is a shrine located in the Yoyogi area of Tokyo's Shibuya ward (渋谷区代々木), which attracts many tourists from both inside and outside of Japan and is a spot you should definitely add to your itinerary when traveling in Tokyo. It is the most popular shrine in Japan for "hatsumode" (初詣, the first shrine visit of the year), with more visitors each year than any other shrine in Japan. It is also a popular spot for weddings and other celebrations, such as "Shichi-Go-San" (七五三). In the opening of the video, you can see the giant torii gate made from a 1,500 year old Japanese cypress tree. If you take a look at the view from beyond the torii gate, you'll see why this shrine was selected as one of the top 20 sightseeing spots in Japan by the Michelin Guide. Passing Through Meiji Jingu's Torii Gate Photo：Meiji Jingu, Tokyo The giant torii gate found at Meiji Jingu is the largest of its kind in Japan. Beyond the gate there is a small bridge and on the left hand side you can see many decorative sake barrels. Different brands have been gathered from all over Japan, and it makes for a very impressive display. Emperor Meiji was also known to enjoy drinking wine, and interestingly, many French wine barrels can also be found at the entrance to the shrine. Be sure to stay on the lookout for them when you visit. They can be seen at 0:33 in the video. After passing through the south gate (Minami Shinmon (南神門)) the main shrine will come into sight. From 2:21 in the video, you can see the famous tree known as Meoto Kusu (夫婦楠) which is believed to bring good luck in marriage, as well as many Ema boards. If you look at the wall, you will see many beautiful "kakizome" (書初め, the first calligraphy of the year). A Cafe in a Power Spot?! The History of Meiji Jingu's Inner Garden and Recommended Spots Photo：Irises in the Garden Meiji Jingu consists of the inner garden in Shibuya, which has a shrine and the shrine's grounds, and the outer garden in Shinjuku Ward, which has sports and cultural facilities. Meiji Jingu, was built on November 1st, 1920 in honor of the 122nd emperor of Japan, Emperor Meiji (明治天皇) and his wife Empress Shoken (昭憲皇太后). With a surface area equivalent to 15 Tokyo Domes, Inori no Mori (祈りの社) has been donated 100,000 trees from all over the country in an effort to increase the beautiful natural surroundings of the area. The area is scattered with spots you'll want to snap a picture of to post and share on social media! Another highlight of Meiji Jingu is its Imperial Garden (明治神宮御苑) which in June is covered with blossoming Japanese Irises. "Kiyomasa's Well" (清正の井戸) is a famous power spot inside the garden, and in recent years an increasing number of people are using the image as a wallpaper on their phones in the hope that it will bring them good luck. Other famous spots around Meiji Jingu include the turtle-shaped rock "Kameishi" (亀石) and the martial arts building "Shiseikan" (至誠館). If you're interested in learning more about the history of Meiji Jingu, we highly recommend visiting the adjacent Meiji Shrine Museum (明治神宮ミュージアム). For lunch, we recommend the delicious sandwiches served at Cafe Mori no Terrace (CAFÉ 杜のテラス). Meiji Jingu is open from sunrise to sunset, therefore the opening times vary depending on the time of year. Please check the official website for more information regarding hours. You can also find information on shrine etiquette and "Go-shuin" (御朱印) on the same website. Gingko Trees in Fall - Meiji Jingu's Outer Garden Photo：Jingu Gaien Ginkgo Avenue Meiji Jingu's outer garden features a variety of sports facilities, including a driving range, tennis court, and baseball field. Access to the area is great, and there's also a hotel parking lot in the vicinity. Many baseball competitions are held at Meiji Jingu Baseball Stadium, which is home to the Yakult Swallows, as well as the annual Jingu Gaien Fireworks Festival (神宮外苑花火大会). A spot we highly recommend in the outer garden area is the row of Gingko trees leading up to the Meiji Memorial Picture Gallery (聖徳記念絵画館). In November, just as the leaves are turning red, the whole area is lit up making it a great place to take a photo. Every year, more than 1.8 million people take part in the Jingu Gaien Ginkgo Festival (神宮外苑 いちょう祭り). Meiji Jingu Summary Photo：Meiji Jingu We hope you enjoyed this introductory video featuring the highlights of Meiji Jingu's inner and outer gardens. At 3:00 in the video, you can hear the sound of people visiting the shrine. Enjoy the sights, sounds, spiritual atmosphere of Meiji Jingu! 【Official Website】Meiji Jingu https://www.meijijingu.or.jp/en/ 【Tripadvisor】Meiji Jingu https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g1066456-d1373780-Reviews-Meiji_Jingu_Shrine-Shibuya_Tokyo_Tokyo_Prefecture_Kanto.html

Video Introduction of “Nishijin Textile Hall” in Kyoto City, Kyoto Prefecture, Japan When it comes to Japanese culture, there are many people who are interested in kimono. If you want to learn more about kimono, definitely check out the video "Nishijin Textile Center / Nishijin Ori Kaikan" (西陣織会館 / Nishijin Ori Kaikan / 京都いいとこ動画), created by "京都いいとこ動画 KyotoiitokoVideo." At the Nishijin Textile Center, you can see documents on traditional Japanese clothing, such as kimonos, as well as experience making and putting on a kimono, and even watch a kimono show. Nishijin Ori Photo：A Nishijin ori obi Nishijin ori is a general term for fiber dyed textiles that have been produced in Kyoto since ancient times. It is said that sericulture and weaving began in Kyoto around the Kofun period (~300 to 538 AD). During the Onin War (1467 to ~1478), the western military camp (西の陣, Nishi no jin) was set up around Kita no Tenmangu Shrine in Kamigyo, Kyoto, so the area came to be called Nishijin (西陣). It is said that after the Onin War, many artisans gathered in Nishijin and built the town of Obechou. Experiences Offered at the Nishijin Textile Center Source :YouTube screenshot Nishijin ori is a high-quality silk fabric, and some of its gorgeous designs, such as Junihitoe, with gold brocade, are absolutely stunning. Inside the Nishijin Textile Center, you can learn about these historic garments through historical exhibits and watch a spectacular kimono show. There is also an area where you can observe a craftsman’s Nishijin ori techniques, which is shown at 0:50 in the video. Starting at 0:13 in the video, you can watch a hand-weaving demonstration of hand-woven scarves, using a loom to weave washable silk. They teach you how to weave a silk scarf, so even beginners can try it out. For those who want to try on a Kyoto-style kimono, we recommend the Maiko experience, where you can have your make-up and dressing done, or the Kimono rental experience and culture school. Buy Nishijin ori Goods Source :YouTube screenshot You can also buy Nishijin textile items at the Nishijin Craft Shop "Kimono no Yakata." Many people buy not just kimono, but also Japanese accessories and interior goods. There are ties, bags and wallets too and they are all fashionable. The shop is introduced at 0:04 in the video. There are traditional shrines, temples and restaurants around Nishijin Textile Center, so we recommend sightseeing around the area as well. Summary of the Nishijin Textile Center Source :YouTube screenshot If you're planning a trip to Kyoto, consider taking your time to enjoy the world of traditional Japanese kimono. There are many attractive sightseeing spots and and hidden gems around Nishijin, so be sure to explore the area. Trying your hand at making Nishijin ori, as shown in the video, will make your trip to Kyoto a memorable one! ◆Information◆ 【Address】414 Tatemonzencho, Kamigyo, Kyoto, Kyoto 602-8216 【Access】A 10 minute walk from Metro Karasuma Line Imadegawa Station, and a 2 minute walk from Kyoto City Bus Horikawa Imadegawa 【Admission Fee】Free 【Parking】Payed parking lot available 【Phone number】075-451-9231 【Notes】Tax can be filed on the sixth floor, exhibition hall 【Official Website】Nishijin Textile Center https://nishijin.or.jp/eng/ 【Tripadvisor】Nishijin Textile Center https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g298564-d321410-Reviews-Nishijin_Textile_Center-Kyoto_Kyoto_Prefecture_Kinki.html

Video introduction of "Hakone Shrine" in Ashigarashita-gun, Kanagawa Prefecture This video, titled “Hakone Shrine” (箱根神社), was uploaded by k_sada. It introduces Hakone Shrine, located on the shore of Lake Ashinoko in Hakone, Kanagawa. Hakone Shrine is a popular power spot that can be easily accessed from Japan’s Kanto region. The video covers every corner of Hakone shrine and is a must-see for anyone traveling to Hakone. Be sure to check it out and maybe a little luck will rub off on you as well! A Look at the Charms of Hakone Shrine Photo：Hakone Shrine's main shrine approach, Kanagawa Prefecture Hakone Shrine is famous as one of the most powerful power spots in Japan's Kanto region, and is said to improve one's luck for success, as well as bless people with economic fortune, wish fulfillment, success in marriage, love, and health. The main approach to the shrine, the fifth torii gate, Shinmon gate, the kagura hall, and the ceremony hall, all of which can be seen from 0:20 in the video, are also places we recommend stopping by when visiting Hakone Shrine. Popular spots that you won't want to pass up are Anzu-sugi (a cedar tree to pray for safe childbirth), Soga Shrine, the fourth torii gate, the Kagura Repository, the lake-bottom tree, the Ebisu Shrine, and the torii of peace. The History of Hakone Shrine and When It Was Built Photo：Ryujinsui at Kuzuryu Shrine, Kanagawa Prefecture Hakone Shrine has a long history, and it is even mentioned in books from the Kamakura Period (~1185-1333 AD). Many warlords have visited and worshipped in Hakone. In particular, Minamoto no Yoritomo is said to have worshipped at Hakone Shrine. It was burned down once by Toyotomi Hideyoshi, but the shrine’s main building was rebuilt by Tokugawa Ieyasu. A new shrine, which can be seen at 3:03 in the video, was built at Kuzuryu Shrine and many people still come to visit it today. Popular Tourist Spots Near Hakone Shrine Photo：A sightseeing ship on Lake Ashinoko, Kanagawa Prefecture In addition to the shrines, Hakone has many other tourist spots in the neighborhood. From Shinjuku, the Odakyu Line runs to Hakone-Yumoto, and the Odakyu Romancecar is a very popular train. It takes about 85 minutes to reach Hakone-Yumoto from Shinjuku. On weekends, many people enjoy the sightseeing boats on Lake Ashinoko and the hot springs where you can relax. In addition to the tourist attractions, we also recommend visiting festivals, such as the Hakone Shrine Setsubun Festival and the Kosui Festival. Hakone Shrine, Hakone Motomiya Shrine, and Kuzuryu Shrine are known as Hakone Sanja Mairi (箱根三社参り, Hakone Three Shrine Visit), and many people visit all three shrines. We also recommend picking up a shuin stamp and buying omamori charms for good luck and for souvenirs. Hakone, with its high elevation, has many viewpoints from which you can see Suruga Bay, the Izu Peninsula, Sagami Bay, and the Shonan coast when the weather is favorable. Summary of Hakone Shrine Photo：Hakone Shrine's torii gate This video introduced Hakone Shrine in Hakone, Kanagawa. Hakone Shrine is easily accessible thanks to its parking lot and good transportation. A leisurely walk around Hakone Shrine will help you relax and get your daily exercise in. Of course, don't forget to take pictures of the beautiful scenery, as Hakone Shrine is quite Instagram-worthy! 【Tripadvisor】Hakone Shrine / Kuzuryu Shrine https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g298171-d319902-Reviews-Hakone_Shrine_Kuzuryu_Shrine_Singu-Hakone_machi_Ashigarashimo_gun_Kanagawa_Prefect.html

Video introduction to the precincts of Atsuta Jingu Shrine in Nagoya City, Aichi Prefecture This video, titled "Atsuta Jingu - Nagoya - Aichi - 熱田神宮 - 4K Ultra HD," was created by "TokyoStreetView - Japan The Beautiful." The video portrays the grounds of Atsuta Shrine (Atsuta Jingu) in Atsuta, Nagoya City, Aichi Prefecture. Atsuta Shrine, known affectionately as "Atsuta-san" to the locals, has a long and rich history. Besides the main shrine, there's "Atsuta Shrine Grove" (熱田の杜) with its towering camphor trees. The entire space is filled with spiritual energy. In this article, we'll introduce the must-see areas and visitor information about the shrine. From the video alone, you'll get a sense of how it feels to walk through the quiet and serene atmosphere of the shrine. What Kind of Place Is Atsuta Shrine? Photo：Atsuta Shrine in Nagoya City, Aichi Prefecture Atsuta Shrine is an ancient shrine with around 1,900 years of history. The enshrined deity, Atsuta-no-Ookami (熱田大神) represents the sacred sword Kusanagi shinken (草薙神剣), one of the Three Sacred Treasures of Japan. The Five Great Gods of Atsuta, including Amaterasu-Omikami (天照大神) and Takehaya Susanoo-no-mikoto (素盞嗚尊) are enshrined as well. The shrine is a 3-minute walk from Jingu-Mae Station (名鉄神宮前駅) on the Nagoya Line (名鉄名古屋本線). Right in front of the station is Atsuta Shrine Grove. By car, the shrine is 10 kilometers away from the Nagoya Minami Interchange (名古屋南IC) on the Isewangan Expressway (伊勢湾岸自動車道). Parking is available at the shrine as well. At Atsuta Shrine, around 60 ceremonies and events are held every year, with the most popular being the "Atsuta Festival" (熱田まつり), held on the 5th of June. The shrine also attracts many visitors on occasions such as the first day of the year, Shichi-Go-San, and weddings, as well as for shrine visits or collecting shuin. A Look at the Grounds of Atsuta Shrine Photo：Atsuta Shrine in Nagoya City, Aichi Prefecture The video begins at the "East Gate" (東門) closest to Jingu-Mae Station. This can be seen from 0:05 in the video. Inside the shrine, there's the East Entrance, West Entrance (西門), and Main Entrance (正門). As seen from 0:34 in the video, visitors must conduct ritual cleansings of their hands and mouth before entering the shrine. A row of sake barrels can be seen, with the 1000-year-old camphor tree "Okusu" (大楠) standing near by. Continuing on, you'll find the main shrine. This can be seen from 2:10 in the video. In the video, you can see the prayer hall (祈祷殿) where purification rituals are conducted, as well as the praying area for shrine visits (神楽殿). Behind the main shrine is the path "Kokoro-no-Komichi" (こころの小径), and further in, you can find Ichinomisaki Shrine (一之御前神社) where Amaterasu (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Amaterasu) is enshrined. This is known as the most spiritual place within the shrine, and access to the path is only open between 9 am and 4 pm every day. Another power spot is "Shimizu Shrine" (清水社) where the deity of water is enshrined. Other spots for prayers include the Minami-Shingu-Sha Shrine (南新宮社) where Susanoo is enshrined, Kusunomi-Mae-Sha Shrine (楠之御前社) where the deity of childbirth is enshrined, Hakken-gū (別宮八剣宮) where a sacred sword is enshrined, Kamichikama Shrine (Sessha Kamichikama Shrine, 上知我麻神社) where the deity of wisdom is enshrined, as well as Okuninushi-sha(大国主社) of the deity Daikoku (大黒様), and Kotoshironushi-sha (事代主社) of the deity Ebisu (恵比寿様). Summary of Atsuta Shrine Photo：Hitsuzumabushi, Nagoya City, Aichi Prefecture The video introduces the vibrant grounds of Atsuta Shrine. Be sure to check it out to see beautiful, relaxing scenes of the shrine. Of course, it'd be even better to pay an actual visit to the shrine! Near the shrine are numerous restaurants offering Nagoya's famous local specialty, hitsumabushi, so consider trying it if you're looking to grab a bite to eat! ◆Atsuta Shrine Facilities Overview◆ 【Address】Atsuta, Nagoya City, Aichi Prefecture 1-1-1 【Access】A 3-minute walk from Jingu-Mae Station off the Meitetsu Nagoya Line 【Hours】24/7 【Parking】Available 【Telephone】052-671-4151 【Official Website】Atsuta Shrine｜Hatsu-Ebisu｜Shichi-Go-San｜Shrine Visit｜Purification｜Nagoya｜Atsuta Shrine http://www.atsutajingu.or.jp/en/intro/ 【Tripadvisor】Atsuta Shrine https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g298106-d320120-Reviews-Atsuta_Jingu_Shrine-Nagoya_Aichi_Prefecture_Tokai_Chubu.html

Kokusai Dori in Naha, Okinawa This video is titled "[HD] Explore Kokusai dori from 'Kencho-mae Station.' Okinawa Monorail/Okinawa Holidays/Okinawa Sightseeing/Walk Naha/Okinawa Trip/DJI Osmo" (【高画質】「県庁前駅」から国際通りを歩く・沖繩單軌電車・沖繩假期・沖縄観光・那覇歩き・沖繩旅遊之・DJI Osmo). This video explores some of the popular shopping spots at Kokusai dori in Naha, Okinawa. Kokusai dori is a must-see spot in Naha, Okinawa as it is one of the most popular tourist spots in Japan. Let's explore the street from Kencho-mae Station to see how lively it gets. What Is Naha's Kokusai Dori? Photo：Kokusai dori Kokusai dori is located on route 39 in Naha, Okinawa, where Anri and Kumoji connect. In 1953, due to the construction on Makishi road, many stores gathered and it became a shopping street. You can check out the video at 2:46 to see the entrance to Kokusai dori. As you can see in the video, it is a popular tourist spot with many different stores including restaurants, hotels, and gift shops. It's also easily accessed from Naha airport, as it's only about 5 km away. Enjoy Delicious Meals at Kokusai Dori in Naha, Okinawa Photo：Okinawa soba If you go to Kokusai dori, you've got to try the different foods while shopping in Naha. Besides the popular Okinawan food, there's also steak, hamburgers, sweets, and more. Take pictures of that delicious food and post 'em on Instagram too! There are also some places to enjoy some drinks if you're looking to try some Okinawan sake! Fresh seafood and vegetables are available at Makishi Public Market, a market connected to Kokusai dori. There are also many places to buy souvenirs as there is an abundance of tourists and students on field trips in Naha, Okinawa, looking to explore Kokusai dori. Be sure to check out the video at 3:53 to see what kind of stores you can enjoy shopping at. Kokusai Dori's Transit Mall! Photo：Eisa Every Sunday, a transit mall is opened up and the area is transformed into a pedestrian paradise where no cars can drive through. This pedestrian-only street stretches about 1,300 meters and all vehicles are prohibited from entering. There are several different events that take place and venues that open up at the transit mall, including cafes, and some performances done by professional performers. In August, a popular event called "The 10,000 Eisa Dancers Parade" is held on the main street. Event Information Around Kokusai Dori in Naha, Okinawa Besides Eisa Festival in August, there's also the Okinawa International Movie Festival held in April, the Naha Great Tug-of-War Festival and Ryukyu Dynasty Parade in October, the Tsuboya Yachimun Street Festival in November, and Palette Kumoji and the Kumoji Illumination are held in Winter. These events are sure to create lifelong memories. Summary of Kokusai Dori in Naha, Okinawa Photo：Kokusai dori, Okinawa There are so many popular things to enjoy on Kokusai dori, including shopping, delicious food, and more. We highly recommend a visit to Kokusai dori when an event is taking place. It's more convenient if you can rent a car to travel in Okinawa because there are so many places to see, such as beaches and other popular tourist spots. Be sure to look up parking information for each area if you decide to rent a car. Also, don't forget to keep an eye out for some special Okinawan gifts on Kokusai dori, such as T-shirts, Shisa (Okinawa guardian lions), and Chinsuko (Okinawan biscuits). 【Official Website】Kokusai dori - A Shopping Street in Naha, Okinawa https://naha-kokusaidori.okinawa/

Introducing Yuzuru Hanyu! This time, we will introduce a video titled "All Japan Figure Skating Championship 2019 <Men's Short 1st place, Yuzuru Hanyu / Performance + Interview>"（全日本フィギュアスケート選手権2019＜男子ショート第1位･羽生結弦／演技+インタビュー＞）" by Fuji TV's official sports channel. The 2019 All Japan Figure Skating Championship featured in this video was held at the National Yoyogi Stadium No. 1 Gymnasium in Shibuya ward, Tokyo in the Kanto region for four days from December 19 to 23, in 2019. This tournament was the final round of the World Championship in 2020, and attracted the attention of many figure skating fans. Featured in the video is the popular figure skater Yuzuru Hanyu. His brilliant performance has attracted many fans. In the video, you can watch the boys' short performance from 0:39. What Kind of Competition Is the Figure Skating Introduced in the Video? Photo：Figure skating In figure skating, skaters competes not for speed but based on the beauty of their performance. The techniques include jumps, spins, step sequences, and spirals, including triple-axels and quad-rotation jumps. Points are determined according to the difficulty of the moves. The results of the boy's shorts of the 2019 All Japan Figure Skating Championship featured in the video, were 1st place / 110.72 points Yuzuru Hanyu, 2nd place / 105.71 points Shoma Uno. What Kind of Person Is Yuzuru Hanyu? Source :YouTube screenshot Yuzuru Hanyu is a popular figure skater from Miyagi and is affiliated with the Japanese airline ANA. His nickname is "Yuzu". Born in 1994, he is 172 cm tall (5.6 ft.) and currently enrolled at Waseda University as of January 2020. He has won two consecutive gold medals in the Sochi and Pyeongchang Olympics (Winter Olympics). He was awarded for his high scoring performance every time, and in 2018 he was the youngest national laureate at the age of 23. When Yuzuru Hanyu, dresses in a gorgeous design costume and appears in the skating rink, loud cheers ring out through the stadium, and after the performance, it's common that he will receive a lot of Winnie the Pooh stuffed animals that he loves. At the 2019 All Japan Figure Skating Championship, throwing of presents after the competition was prohibited, and it was a topic of hot debate at the time. In the video, you can see a Winnie the Pooh stuffed animal with the coach before the performance. You can also watch the interview after the end of the performance with the audience's cheering and loud applause from 4:28. He talks about his enthusiasm for free performance two days later. The History of Japanese Figure Skating and Famous Skaters! Photo：Figure skating The history of the figure skating world in Japan has been supported by skaters who perform well, such as Midori Ito and Shizuka Arakawa, as well as Miki Ando, Mao Asada, Daisuke Takahashi and Nobunari Oda. Currently, skaters such as Hanyu Yuzuru, Uno Shoma and Sato Shun are still active. If you go to the skating rink to watch the figure skating tournament, you can see various performances such as single skating, pair skating and ice dancing. Summary of the Performance and Interview Video of Yuzuru Hanyu Source :YouTube screenshot In the men's Free Competition that took place after the short, which you can see in this video, Shoma Uno who was in first place, managed to widen the gap between himself and Yuzuru Hanyu, and Yuzuru managed to place second. Yuzuru Hanyu's performance is very supple and beautiful. It's hard to take your eyes off of it. Be sure to take a closer look at the video to enjoy the charm of figure skating.

Starbucks Reserve Roastery Tokyo, an upscale Starbucks store in Meguro-ku, Tokyo - Opening Video Introduction Here's a video from SankeiNews showing the press the opening of the Starbucks Reserve Roastery Tokyo in Nakameguro in February 2019. This video was published by “SankeiNews.” The title of the video is "Only the 5th Store of its Kind in the World｜An In-Store Roasting Machine｜Starbucks Reserve Roastery Makes Landfall in Japan" (世界で五番目 店内に焙煎機　「高級スタバ」日本初上陸). Starbucks is a popular coffee chain with around 1,500 stores in Japan (as of September, 2019). The Starbucks introduced in the video is called a “Starbucks Reserve Roastery.” It is very different from regular Starbucks stores. Starbucks Reserve Roastery is a new type of coffee shops offering a high-quality, luxurious coffee experience by roasting coffee beans inside the store. This article will talk about the appeals of “Starbucks Reserve Roastery Tokyo.” Be sure to watch the video as you read on! Before we go any further, we recommend checking out the interior of Starbucks Reserve Roastery Tokyo shown in the video. This Starbucks offers “a unique, signature experience from roasting the beans to pouring the perfect coffee.” The Luxury Starbucks Reserve Roastery Tokyo Source :YouTube screenshot Starbucks Reserve Roastery Tokyo was launched in February, 2019 in Meguro, Tokyo. It's a 14 minute walk from Nakameguro station, located by the Meguro river. Enjoy the beautiful scenery of the Meguro river from the terrace- a famous place for cherry blossom viewing. The first thing that catches your eye upon entering the store is the huge cask in which the roasted coffee beans are matured. This can be seen at 0:24 in the video. The casks also feature a metal exterior design with cherry blossom petals. The other Starbucks Reserve Roastery are located in Seattle, Shanghai, Milan, and New York. This is the very first Starbucks Reserve Roastery in Japan. The CEO of Starbucks Coffee Japan, Takafumi Mizuguchi, made a speech, stating, “I want to make Japan a coffee wonderland” (0:36). After Mizuguchi’s speech, the architect, Kengo Kuma (a well-known designer who designed the new National Stadium) talked about the exterior design of this Starbucks. Introducing the Floors of Starbucks Reserve Roastery Tokyo Source :YouTube screenshot On the first floor, there is a main bar where you can order coffee, and an Italian bakery called “Princi” that offers freshly baked pastries. You can also purchase limited merchandise on the first floor (1:05). TEAVANA is located on the second floor. Here, you can enjoy different teas such as black tea and Japanese tea (1:52). The ARRIVIAMO BAR counter is located on the third floor. On this floor, you can enjoy special alcohol, including wine, beer, and cocktails, that use coffee (2:28). The fourth floor is also used for local events, as well as for tours to see the process of packaging coffee. Summary of Starbucks Reserve Roastery Tokyo Source :YouTube screenshot In this video, you can see the inside of the luxury Starbucks. This is the first store of its kind to launch in Japan. When it first opened, there was a long line to get in and tickets were distributed to prevent overcrowding. For now, you can check out this Starbucks in this video. The menu is very different from a regular Starbucks. A cup of coffee costs around 1,000 yen, but the taste of the coffee is very different from what you can get at other coffee shops. The atmosphere of the store is also outstanding. If you have a chance, be sure to visit this luxury Starbucks! 【Official Website】STARBUCKS RESERVE® ROASTERY TOKYO https://www.starbucks.co.jp/reserve/roastery/ 【Tripadvisor】STARBUCKS RESERVE(R) ROASTERY TOKYO https://www.tripadvisor.com/Restaurant_Review-g1066450-d16714835-Reviews-Starbucks_Reserve_R_Roastery_Tokyo-Meguro_Tokyo_Tokyo_Prefecture_Kanto.html

Introducing Okinawa's First Makishi Public Market! This video, titled "Naha City First Makishi Public Market 1｜Naha City, Okinawa Prefecture" (那覇市第一牧志公設市場 1　沖縄県那覇市), was released by "satobo3104." It's a scenic video showing "Meat Market Avenue" (肉市場通り) in the First Makishi Public Market, in Naha City, Okinawa. The First Makishi Public Market originated as a black market after World War II. The market, with its various streets lined with numerous stalls, is a long-beloved area of Naha City. Even now, the market is known as the "kitchen of Okinawa," as this is where visitors can find all kinds of Okinawan ingredients. The market is popular with both locals and tourists. Recommended Items at the First Makishi Public Market Photo：Knobsnout parrotfish at the First Makishi Public Market When you think of Okinawa, seafood is something that's sure to come to mind. Besides seafood such as prawns, clams, and sea grapes, the market also offers a variety of deep sea and tropical fish, with species such as rare types of groupers, blowfish, parrotfish, and more. From 3:56 in the video, you can see the rows and rows of fresh seafood in the market. In addition, meats from pork to Okinawan beef are available as well. Some specialties include pig's feet, pork ribs and pig face skin. The lineup of ingredients also includes all sorts of fruits and vegetables, such as bitter gourds, scallions, sponge cucumbers, and pineapples. Okinawan-style shima tofu, kamaboko fish cakes, preserved items, condiments, and alcohol are available as well. At this market, you can truly experience the depths of Okinawan culinary culture. In the video, you can view this wide spread of offerings. Restaurants in the First Makishi Public Market Photo：Sashimi at the First Makishi Public Market In the market, customers can barter with vendors for prices. Furthermore, there are also "mochiage" (持ち上げ) systems where you buy ingredients on the first floor and have them prepared as a delicious meal on the second floor. Of course, on the streets with regular restaurants, you can have your fill of local dishes as well. From light breakfasts to huge servings of seafood rice bowls, there's a wide variety of delicious food available. Definitely check it out! Sightseeing in the First Makishi Public Market Photo：The First Makishi Public Market, Okinawa The entrance of the First Makishi Public Market is right next to Kokusai Dori (国際通り, lit. "International Avenue"). However, due to the aging of the market buildings, demolition work is in progress on the main street of the market. As of October 2020, the market has been temporarily moved to a separate location, but business is continuing as normal. Renovations are expected to be completed in 2022. If you're planning a visit to the market, be sure to check out the Okinawa souvenir shop, Okinawa-ya (おきなわ屋), Owl Adventure Park (ふくろうの楽園), Ryukyu Studio ChuraBijin (琉装スタジオ ちゅら美人) to try on Ryukyuan traditional clothing, and Okinawan Art Experience Birafu (沖縄アート体験 美ら風). Summary of the First Makishi Public Market Photo：The First Makishi Public Market, Okinawa Many visitors to Okinawa wonder where to taste local dishes and purchase Okinawan ingredients as souvenirs. As shown in the video, the First Makishi Public Market has absolutely everything you need. If you’re planning a visit to Okinawa, definitely check out the First Makishi Public Market! ◆First Makishi Public Market Overview◆ 【Address】2-7-10 Matsuo, 2-7-10, Naha City, Okinawa 900-0014 【Access】A 9-minute walk from Makishi Station off the Yui Rail Line 【Hours】8:00~21:00 【Closures】The fourth Sunday of every month (excluding December) 【Parking】None 【Phone】098-867-6560 【Official Website】 Public Market｜Naha City First Makishi Public Market Union https://kosetsu-ichiba.com/en/ 【Tripadvisor】First Makishi Public Market https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g298224-d1372626-Reviews-Makishi_Public_Market-Naha_Okinawa_Prefecture.html

Video Introduction of “Shizukuishi Ski Resort” in Iwate-gun, Iwate Prefecture, Japan This video, titled "Shizukuishi Ski Resort PV [Full Version]" (Shizukuishi Ski Resort -雫石スキー場PV【完全版】), was released by "EJPLANNING UAV空撮事業部." It showcases the Shizukuishi Ski Resort in Shizukuishi, Iwate in Japan’s Tohoku Region. There are many facilities around the Shizukuishi Ski Resort, including Shizukuishi Prince Hotel, restaurants, and Shizukuishi Golf Course, which is managed by Prince Hotels, Inc. If you're looking for some slopes in the Iwate Prefecture area where you can enjoy skiing and snowboarding, then Shizukuishi Ski Resort is the place to be! A Closer Look at the Shizukuishi Ski Resort Source :YouTube screenshot The Shizukuishi Ski Resort in Iwate Prefecture hosted the 1993 Alpine World Ski Championships in Shizukuishi. Even today, it's the stage for the downhill and super-giant slalom events at the All-Japan Ski Championships. The Shizukuishi Ski Resort in Iwate Prefecture is characterized by its diverse terrain, with many ups and downs. There are many courses, ranging from over 4km in length to family slopes for beginners. For intermediate and advanced skiers, the downhill and giant slalom courses offer dynamic skiing experiences. A fireworks display is sometimes held at night when the park is open for night skiing as well. You can see the ski resort colorfully lit up at night at 8:09 in the video. Things To Do at the Shizukuishi Ski Resort Source :YouTube screenshot The Shizukuishi Ski Resort in Iwate Prefecture is also a great place to participate in a tour that will give you an extraordinary experience. There's the Sunrise Tour, the Powder Ski Tour, the Starry Sky Tour on the Shizukuishi Ginga Ropeway, or the Premium Snowcat Tour, and you will have an unforgettable time. Also, be sure to consider joining the Interalpen Shizukuishi Ski School (SAJ). Shizukuishi Ski Resort provides rental clothes and boards for beginners as well. The many gondolas are also carefully maintained to prevent accidents. Summary of the Shizukuishi Ski Resort Source :YouTube screenshot The appeal of Shizukuishi Ski Resort is of course the spectacular shown in the video. When purchasing lift tickets for the Shizukuishi Ski Resort, be sure to check for early bird discounts and season tickets. We also recommend checking snow conditions, opening hours, traffic access, live cameras, and making reservations at nearby hotels. 【Official Website】Shizukuishi Ski Resort - Prince Hotel https://www.princehotels.com/en/ski/shizukuishi/index.html 【Tripadvisor】Shizukuishi Ski Resort https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g1120422-d1424330-Reviews-Shizukuishi_Ski_Place-Shizukuishi_cho_Iwate_gun_Iwate_Prefecture_Tohoku.html

Togakushi Shrine" in Nagano City, Nagano Prefecture Video Introduction This video, titled "Togakushi Jinja - Oku Sha" (戸隠神社・奥社 Togakushi Jinja - Oku Sha), was created by "sirousaghi." Togakushi Shrine (戸隠神社, Togakushi Jinja), located in Nagano City, Nagano Prefecture, has an upper shrine and a middle shrine at the foot of Mt. Togakushi (戸隠山,Togakushiyama), which is said to have taken its present form from "Amano-Iwato," when the gods still walked the earth. At the end of the 270 stone steps is a shrine with a history of more than 2000 years, made up of five shrines, including Hoko-sha, Kuzuryu-sha, Hinomiko-sha, and more. In the days of Shinbutsu-shugo, a mixture of Shinto and Buddhism, it was called Togakushiyama Kenkoji and was a sacred site for Shugendo, and was widely worshipped until the separation of Shinto and Buddhist beliefs. The upper shrine is dedicated to Ame-no-Tajikarao, who opened Amano-Iwato with his divine power. As the head shrine of Togakushi Shrine, the upper shrine is said to have the power to bring good luck, fulfill wishes, bring bountiful harvest, and bring victory in sports. The video starts from the Ikkan Ryuoshi, which can be seen at 0:43, and Zuishinmon Gate can be seen in the middle of the 2km long approach. This is followed by a line of around 150 Japanese cedar trees on the right and 130 on the left. Beyond that, there is Iizuna Shrine (飯縄社, Iizuna Jinja), which is shown from 1:39 in the video. In front of the upper shrine, there is Kuzuryu Shrine dedicated to Kuzuryu. The exact date is unknown, but it has been dedicated and worshipped as a Jinushigami since before Ame-no-Tajikarao was enshrined. The History of Togakushi Shrine Photo：Togakushi upper shrine shrine approach, Nagano Prefecture Togakushi Shrine is made up of five shrines around Mt. Togakushi, in northwestern Nagano. It is registered as a "Kokuhei Shosha" (a Shinto shrine that receives money from the national government or prefectural governments). There are many theories about the origin of the shrine, and one of them is that current upper shrine was built in 210 B.C., but Kuzuryu Shrine is said to be even older than the upper shrine. There is also a legend that Ame-no-Tajikarao was welcomed by Kuzuryu, the Jinushigami of the area. The name of Mt. Togakushi, which is also an object of worship of Togakushi Shrine, comes from the legend that Amaterasu-Ookami was angry with her brother Susano-o-Mikoto, who was hiding in Amano-Iwato, so, Ame-no-Tajikarao threw it with all his might, and a part of it flew away and became a mountain. There are two important cultural properties stored at Togakushi Shrine: the incomplete remains of "Hokekyo" volume 4 by Fujiwara no Sadanobu and |"Geshaku" which is one of the five ivory shaku existing in Japan. Access to Togakushi Shrine Photo：Togakushi upper shrine, Nagano Prefecture Access to Togakushi Shrine is as follows. 【Access via car】 If you're going via highway, get off at the Nagano Interchange or the Shinanomachi Interchange. We recommend getting off at the Shinanomachi Interchange. There is little traffic this way and getting to the shrine is easy. Take Route 18 towards downtown Nagano, turn right at the "Issa Memorial Museum Entrance" (一茶記念館入口) intersection, and pass through the foot of Mt. Kurohime (about 30 minutes). It's possible to drive to Togakushi Shrine, but you'll have to walk to the upper shrine, so please be aware that the parking lot can get quite crowded. 【Access via walking】 if you're coming on foot, you can take the train, bus, taxi, or use a car rental service. There is a local bus from JR Nagano Station to Togakushi Shrine, which takes about 70 minutes (Bus stop No.7 at Nagano Station). Sightseeing Information for Togakushi Shrine Photo：Zaru Soba There are a lot of sightseeing destinations around Togakushi Shrine: ・Togakushi Forest Botanical Garden ・Togakushi Folk Museum ・Togakushi Ninja Museum ・Ninja Trick Mansion ・Kagami Ike Pond ・Togakushi Campground ・Chibikko Ninja Village These are just a few famous sightseeing sites in Nagano. You can also enjoy specialties of Nagano, such as soba. Summary of Togakushi Shrine Photo：A row of cedar trees at upper Togakushi shrine, Nagano Prefecture While you can of course enjoy the history of Togakushi Shrine, it's also popular sightseeing spot for couples because of the two Japanese cedar trees, which are believed to bring good fortunate to couples. There's also "Togakushi Shrine Daidai Kagura," an Intangible Folk Cultural Property of Nagano. Togakushi Shrine is also one of the most famous power spots in Nagano. You can visit to collect shuin or buy good luck charms as well. There are many other amazing sightseeing locations, so be sure to explore the area during your visit to Nagano! 【Tripadvisor】Togakushi Shrine https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g298565-d1371708-Reviews-Togakushi_Shrine_Okusha-Nagano_Nagano_Prefecture_Koshinetsu_Chubu.html

The Tomioka Silk Mill - A World Heritage Site! This video, titled "Japan's Tomioka Silk Mill registered as World Heritage Site" (明治時代に生糸産業革新 世界遺産の富岡製糸場), was uploaded by "KyodoNews." It introduces the Tomioka Silk Mill in Gunma, a World Heritage Site of Japan. In 2014, the UNESCO World Heritage Committee approved the "Tomioka Silk Mill and Related Sites" as a World Heritage Site. The Tomioka Silk Mill is a historically important place where technological innovation and a silk industry revolution were achieved in Japan during the Meiji Period (1868-1912). About the Tomioka Silk Mill Photo：Gunma Prefecture・Tomioka Silk Mill The Tomioka Silk Mill is known as the birthplace of modern industry. Formerly known as Hara Tomioka Silk Mill, Tomioka Silk Mill Co., Ltd., Katakura Tomioka Silk Mill, and Kataoka Industry Tomioka Silk Mill, the Tomioka Silk Mill has a long history of changing names. Businessman Eiichi Shibusawa was one of the founders of Tomioka Silk Mill. The "Tomioka Silk Mill and Related Sites," along with, Takayama-sha, the Tajima Residence, and the Arafune Cold Storage at 4:08 in the video, are all registered as a World Heritage Sites. In addition, the entire site of the Tomioka Silk Mill has been designated a national historic site, and the early buildings have been designated National Treasures and Important Cultural Properties. As can be seen at 0:35 in the video, the National Diet Library has a woodblock print depicting the factory at the time of its construction. During the Meiji Period, the construction of a factory that introduced foreign technology was major news in Japan. What to Do at the Tomioka Silk Mill Photo：Gunma Prefecture・East cocoon Hall The wooden-brick building of the Tomioka Silk Mill's raw silk factory is one of the largest instrumental silk mills in the world. The former nameplate of the Tomioka Mill hangs at the entrance of the building. The Inspector’s House is shown at 1:27 in the video and the east cocoon warehouse is shown at 1:45 in the video. The arch in the corridor of the east cocoon warehouse bears the engraving "明治5年" (Meiji 5, or 1872 on the Gregorian calendar) the year it was built. A replica of a reeling machine imported from France and an automatic reeling machine are preserved in the reel mill next to the east cocoon warehouse. From 3:17, you can see Bruna Museum and at 3:57, you can see west cocoon warehouse. Summary of the Tomioka Silk Mill Photo：Gunma Prefecture・Tomioka Silk Mill The video gives an easy-to-undertstand summary of the history of the Tomioka Silk Mill while also showing footage of the mill. If you're planning to go to the Tomioka Silk Mill or interested in World Heritage Sites of Japan, we recommend watching the video beforehand so you know what's in store for you. Near the Tomioka Silk Mill, you'll also find lunch spots where you can eat Gunma's specialty, Okkirikomi, and shops where you can buy silk souvenirs related to the Tomioka Silk Mill. ◆Information◆ 【Address】1-1 Tomioka, Tomioka, Gunma 【Access】Please visit the homepage for access information 【Hours】9 am to 5 pm 【Admission fee】1,000 yen for adults, 250 yen for high school and college students, 150 yen for junior high school and elementary school students 【Parking】None 【Telephone No】0274-67-0075 【Official Website】Tomioka Silk Mill http://www.tomioka-silk.jp.e.wv.hp.transer.com/tomioka-silk-mill/?_ga=2.87418712.1764734922.1592978453-1081752571.1591957850 【Tripadvisor】Tomioka Silk Mill https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g1021202-d1860844-Reviews-Tomioka_Silk_Mill-Tomioka_Gunma_Prefecture_Kanto.html

Introducing Baby Castella Stalls! "Japanese Stall Series: Baby Castella Edition（日本の屋台シリーズ ベビーカステラ編）" is a video that people who love Japanese festival culture and event stalls should definitely watch. Baby Castella is a standard for festival menus. At the stalls, they use a special baking machine similar to a takoyaki machine and bake round and cute castella with amazing craftsmanship. Check out the amazing skills of real craftsmen at baby castella specialty stores that are especially popular at Japanese food stalls. What Are Baby Castella? Origins and How They're Made Photo：Baby Castella It is said that the history of Baby Castella began in the Taisho era (1912 to 1926 AD) with a stall in Nishinomiya City, Hyogo Prefecture in Japan's Kansai region. A stall craftsman made a menu that closely resembles a commercially available bell castella, and it became a very popular product. You can learn more about how to make baby castella at 0:53 in the video. Just pour the dough into a special baking machine that the craftsman has, close the baking machine lid and bake it. As you can see from 3:34, the baked baby castella uses a skewer to fly neatly into the pom-pom and saucer. It looks easy, but baking a lot of baby castellas requires the quick work of a skilled craftsman. Calories and Prices of Baby Castella Photo：Baby Castella Nakazawa Seika, a famous baby castella store that has opened stores in Fukagawa Fudo and Asakusa Tori-no-ichi, is a castella specialty shop where you can wait for up to three hours. The baby castella sold at the shop is pretty reasonably priced however. They start at 12 for 300 yen (~$3 USD). One baby castella is about 30 calories, but these babies are freshly made and super tasty, so you might want to be careful about eating too much. Making Baby Castella at Home! Photo：Baby castella made with a takoyaki pan It is often thought that a special machine used in a specialty store is needed to make baby castella, but you can actually make them at home, using a takoyaki machine. If you use a hot cake mix and bake the dough with a takoyaki machine, you can make your very own delicious baby castella. We recommend giving it a try if you have the chance! Summary of the Baby Castella Stalls Source :YouTube screenshot There are many people who look forward to eating street food at festivals. On festival and event days, eating lunch and snacks at the stalls is a great way to try new foods and make some great memories. One of the pleasures of Japanese food stalls is to be able to see the craftsman's skills in action. If you are sightseeing in Japan, be sure to stop by the baby castella stalls where you can see the amazing techniques shown in the video.

The Mori Art Museum in Nagareyama City, Chiba Prefecture This video, titled "One of the Finest Museum in Japan - The Mori Art Museum" (極上ミュージアム 森の美術館), introduces the Mori Art Museum, located in Nagareyama city, Chiba prefecture in Japan's Kanto region. The Mori Art Museum is a new museum that was built in 2016. Founded as a private museum by its director, Tadayuki Mori, who enjoyed collecting paintings, the Mori Art Museum, along with the Cornell Museum of Art and the Chiba City Museum of Art, has become a place of relaxation for the citizens of Nagareyama, Chiba. The Mori Art Museum Source :YouTube screenshot The Mori Art Museum is a small rectangular building designed entirely out of concrete, located in a lush green wooded area in Nagareyama City. This simple exterior can be seen at 0:08 in the video. Director Tadayuki Mori founded the museum with the aim of contributing to the cultural and artistic activities of the community. The Mori Art Museum is a small-scale museum; however, it has many wonderful, carefully selected works on display. After enjoying the artworks in the exhibition room, you can enjoy a lovely afternoon tea session while gazing at the atmospheric garden. This space can be seen at 1:22 in the video. Works on Display at the Mori Art Museum Source :YouTube screenshot Young artist Daiki Yamamoto's works, such as "in Ilence," which is introduced at 3:50 in the video, are characterized by a realism that sometimes gets them mistaken for photographs. There are many other beautiful landscapes and oil genre paintings that will take your breath away. Be sure to check them out if you have the time. The work depicting the ruins, which can be seen at 5:48 in the video, is one of the many hyper-realistic paintings. More than 20 oil paintings of landscapes and portraits are regularly on display at the Mori Art Museum. In addition to the permanent collection, the museum also hosts three to four special exhibitions, as well as public and private exhibitions 3-4 times a year. Summary of the Mori Art Museum Source :YouTube screenshot The Mori Art Museum, located in Nagareyama City, Chiba Prefecture, has a relaxing atmosphere in the great outdoors and boasts an excellent collection of carefully selected works of art. The museum is also rated quite high on TripAdvisor and other review sites. There are many lodging facilities nearby, including Hotel Lumiere Grande Nagareyama Otakanomori, so you can enjoy a relaxing sightseeing trip. ◆Mori Art Museum◆ 【Address】315 Oguro, Nagareyama City, Chiba Prefecture 【Access】A 20-minute walk from Nagareyama Otakanomori Station on the Tsukuba Express and Tobu Noda Line 【Hours】Summer 10:00 - 17:00, Winter 10:00 - 16:00 【Closures】Mondays, Tuesdays 【Parking】Available（7 parking spots） 【Telephone No】04-7136-2207 【Admission fee】Adults: 600 yen (including beverages), Junior and high school students: 300 yen, Elementary school students and younger: free 【Tripadvisor】Mori Art Museum https://www.tripadvisor.com/ShowUserReviews-g1021251-d13018644-r614605528-Mori_Art_Museum-Nagareyama_Chiba_Prefecture_Kanto.html

The Fugu Courses of Shikitei Mieno This video, titled "JG 4K Oita Usuki Blowfish Dish with Pufferfish Liver and Whitebait (Shikitei Mieno) Oita Usuki Blowfish Dish" (JG 4K 大分 臼杵名物ふぐ料理 ふぐ肝と白子(四季亭みえの) Oita Usuki Blowfish Dish), was released by "JAPAN GEOGRAPHIC." The video introduces the fugu (pufferfish/blowfish) course at "Fugu Shikitei Mieno," located in Usuki, Oita Prefecture, in Japan’s Kyushu region. Fugu is a white meat fish that can be enjoyed in a variety of different cooking/preparation styles. In this article, we'll focus on the fugu of Usuki, popular for its delicious taste and low price compared to other fugu of the same high quality. A Look at the Various Types of Fugu Cuisine Source :YouTube screenshot Shimonoseki City in Yamaguchi Prefecture is famous for its fugu, which has come to be eaten mainly in western Japan, in places like Yamaguchi, Kitakyushu, and Osaka. It is said to have spread all over Japan after World War II. In Osaka, fugu dishes are also called "teppo ryori" (テッポウ料理) or "tetsu ryori" (テツ料理). Because of the presence of toxins (particularly tetrodotoxin) in the liver and organs of fugu, it is mandatory to obtain a license from the local government to process fugu poison. The season for fugu is said to be late September to mid-March, which is essentially winter, but in recent years, fugu has become available frozen or cultured throughout the year. Fugu dishes are usually served as a course, and the main types of dishes are: ・Fugu Sashimi (ふぐ刺し, called "tecchiri" in Osaka): Sliced fugu sashimi so thin that you can see the other side [Video: 0:33~]. ・Fugu Roe Cuisine (白子料理): Fugu ovaries baked, fried, or made into soft roe tofu [Video: 1:03~]. ・Fugu Hot Pot (ふぐ鍋, called "fugu chiri," or "tecchiri" in Japan’s Kansai region): A hot pot of fugu fillet, vegetables, etc. [Video: 1:37~]. ・Zosui (雑炊): A dish of rice and beaten egg made in the remaining broth after eating fugu hot pot [video: 1:47~]. ・Karaage (唐揚げ): Deep-fried fugu meat. ・Nikogori (煮凝り): A dish in which the collagen from the skin of the fugu is hardened into a jelly-like substance. Fugu sake is also enjoyed with fugu dishes. Dried fugu fins are especially popular as "hire-zake" (ひれ酒, lit. fin sake) which is made by roasting dried fugu fins and adding them to hot sake. Usuki Fugu, the Local Specialty of Usuki, Oita Prefecture Source :YouTube screenshot The fugu seen in the video is a firm-fleshed fugu raised in the fast-flowing Bungo Channel. Usuki City in Oita Prefecture is so popular that people from all over the country come here to eat fugu because of its location, which allows one to enjoy it while it's still fresh and at reasonable prices. The Fugu Cuisine of Shikitei Mieno Source :YouTube screenshot There are around 20 restaurants in Usuki that serve fugu dishes. The one featured in the video is Shikitei Mieno. The fugu course is served in a spacious Japanese room on the second floor. At 0:33 in the video, a large plate of fugu sashimi is shown. It's a beautiful dish of sashimi with slices so thin that you can see the plate through the flower-petal-shaped arrangement. Other fugu dishes introduced are fugu with dressed skin, fugu sushi, fugu steamed in soy milk, fugu dumplings, karaage fugu, fugu hot pot, and zosui. These include small dishes of rice, pickles, and dessert for 8,000 yen, a price that can only be found in Usuki. There is also a smaller portion size fugu kaiseki (会席) available. Summary of Usuki’s Fugu Cuisine Source :YouTube screenshot This article introduced the appeal of fugu cuisine and the secrets behind the popularity of Usuki's fugu. Zosui is a special treat you can enjoy after getting your fill of fugu! Be sure to check out the delicious fugu cuisine in the video if you still haven’t yet. It’ll give you an idea of what Kyushu cuisine is like! 【Yelp】Shikitei Mieno (四季亭みえの) https://www.yelp.com/biz/%E5%9B%9B%E5%AD%A3%E4%BA%AD%E3%81%BF%E3%81%88%E3%81%AE-%E8%87%BC%E6%9D%B5%E5%B8%82?osq=%E5%9B%9B%E5%AD%A3%E4%BA%AD%E3%81%BF%E3%81%88%E3%81%AE

About Ikaho Onsen's Oyado Tamaki- Shibukawa City, Gunma Prefecture This video is made by the Sugita Photo Office and it is a promotional video of Oyado Tamaki, a Japanese ryokan Inn in Ikaho Onsen, Shibukawa City in Gunma Prefecture in Japan's Kanto region. In this article, we will share with you the charming Oyado Tamaki, where you will receive a traditional Japanese ryokan style welcome and a plethora of facilities. Oyado Tamaki is a popular ryokan on hotel and ryokan review sites and accommodation comparison sites. The video introduces the hospitality that underlies the quiet and dignified space, as well as the guest rooms, onsen and cuisine. Before we begin, be sure to watch the video to get to know how you can stay at the historical Onsen town. What is Oyado Tamaki? Source :YouTube screenshot Ikaho Onsen, of Gunma Prefecture, is located in Shibukawa City in Gunma Prefecture and mentioned in Manyoshu (万葉集), an 8th century anthology of Japanese poetry. It is a popular Onsen town along with Kusatsu Hot Springs (草津温泉 Kusatsu Onsen) in Gunma. There are stone steps along the hill in the center of this Onsen town. There are many ryokan and souvenir shops along the steps on both sides. These elegant steps are the center of sightseeing in this town. The ryokan Oyado Tamaki stands at the foot of these steps. Access to Ikaho Onsen, Gunma Prefecture is 15 minutes by taxi and 20 minutes by bus from Shibukawa Station (Ikaho Onsen ・榛名湖口 Harunakoguchi ) on the JR Joetsu Line. If coming by car, it's around 20 minutes from Shibukawa Ikaho IC on the Kan-etsu Highway (関越自動車道 Kan-etsu Jidoshado). From Tokyo, it takes around 2 hours by train and around 1.5 hour by car. As it is difficult to make a parking area near the stone steps, Oyado Tamaki’s parking is 50m away from the building. There is a free transport service to/from the parking lot. Despite being a Japanese Inn, Oyado Tamaki offers rooms with a sofa and beds to accommodate the needs of modern and international visitors. It also has Japanese style rooms with Rotenburo (露天風呂 open-air bath). The inn also offers other types of rooms to accommodate the needs of tourists. Jutei (樹亭) a newly added building offers a variety of rooms: 花水木 (Hanamizuki), 花梨 (Karin), 木蓮(Mokuren), and 水蓮 (Suiren). There is also 槐 (Enju), 杠(Yuzuriha), 檔 (Ate) and 桂 (Katsura) which have open-air baths. 蓬莱 (Horai) is a Western style room with a cypress bath with a view. 楓 (Kaede) is a room with a double bed and semi-open-air bath with Shigara pottery (信楽焼, Shigarayaki). While the rooms, 桧 (Hinoki), 榴 (Tsutsuji), 楢 (Nara), 棯 (Utsugi), and 楊 (Yanagi) are located in the southern annex, 柊 (Hiiragi), 櫟 (Kunugi), 椿 (Tsubaki), 榎 (Enoki), 栂 (Tsuga), 椹 (Sawara), 楸 (Hisagi), and 桐 (Kiri) are located in the northern annex. 榀 (Shinanoki) and 檀 (Mayumi) are in the main building. There is also a family room called 柏 (Kashiwa). In these rooms, you can relax and enjoy the sightseeing and baths of Ikaho Onsen, Gunma Prefecture. The rooms are shown from 0:30 in the video. Facilities of Oyado Tamaki Ikaho Onsen At Oyado Tamaki, seasonal flowers and plants handpicked and arranged by the landlady are placed throughout the buildings. There is also a well-manicured quiet private garden. From the bedrooms, you have a view of stone steps as well as a superb view of Mount Tanigawa (谷川岳 Tanigawadake). It is a perfect place to cool down after bathin in the Onsen and relaxing your mind and body. To fully experience the Onsen town, why not try on a Kimono style bathrobe (浴衣, Yukata) and stroll around Oyado Tamaki? At Oyado Tamaki, you are surrounded by a different view of Japanese seasons. You will see new green leaves in spring, while you enjoy Azalea in summer, red leaves in autumn and snowy mountains in winter. Other facilities at Oyado Tamaki include Lounge Bar Kiakari (ラウンジ 樹あかり), Restaurant Mayuakari (お食事処 繭あかり), Restaurant Yamaakari (食事処 山あかり), the souvenir shop, the relaxation room, Sakebayashi Sake Shop (酒林 Sakabayashi), a stone sauna, party rooms, and Karaoke Room Akebi (カラオケルーム木通). There are plenty of ways to spend your time here. Onsen Baths at Oyado Tamaki Ikaho Onsen Source :YouTube screenshot Ikaho Onsen town in Gunma is one of the most famous Onsen towns in Japan. There are two types of Onsen water you can try in this area. One is called Gold Water (黄金の湯 Koganenoyu). The water is reddish brown and contains iron. The other type is White Silver Water (白銀の湯 Hakuginnoyu). Oyado Tamaki is equipped with both types for its customers. There are two large bathing areas at Oyado Tamaki: the hazel bath (榛栗の湯, Hashibarigurinoyu) and the juniper bath (玉伊吹の湯, Tamaibukinoyu). The men and women's baths are designed to be interchangeable, so if you go at the right time, you will be able to experience both areas. To the delight of customers, both large bathing areas are equipped with gold water and white silver water. The gold water is a sulfate spring. It is said to be effective for conditions such as: nerve pain, muscle pain, joint aches, frozen shoulders, hemorrhoids and excessive sensitivity to cold. The white silver water is a metasilicate spring and is said to be effective in: recovery from fatigue, post-illness recovery, and promoting health. The large relaxing bathing areas are shown from 1:12 in the video. Depending on the day and time, you can also use the spring with a day pass. Please check the details on the website for day use. There is also a reservable private rock bath as well, which is perfect for families and couples to relax in. A full range of amenities is also provided. Dining at Oyado Tamaki Ikaho Onsen Source :YouTube screenshot Dining is one of the things you look forward to when you stay at a hot spring inn. This can be seen at 1:38 in the video. Delicate and glamorous Japanese cuisine with seasonal flavors is beautifully presented, and you can enjoy 10 dishes, ranging from appetizers to desserts. You can also enjoy Gunma's local gourmet food, Sashimi Konnyaku (刺身こんにゃく, Sashimi yam), which is characterized by its crunchy texture. Other dishes you can try are Joshu Beef (上州牛 Joshugyu) and Haruna Sanroku Beef (榛名山麓牛 Haruna Sanroku Gyu). You can have your meals in the lounge, or in your own, private room. Tourist Attractions Around Ikaho Onsen Oyado Tamaki There are many popular tourist attractions in Ikaho Onsen, Gunma Prefecture, one of the most famous Onsen towns in Japan. Some tourists attractions include: the Ikaho Stone Steps, Ikaho Green Farm (伊香保グリーン牧場 Ikaho Green Bokujo), Roka Tokutomi Literature Museum (徳冨蘆花記念文学館 Tokutomi Roka Kinen Bungakukan), Takehisa Yumeji Museum (竹久夢二記念館 Takehisa Yumeji Kinenkan), Ikaho Kokusai Country Club (ゴルフ場　伊香保カントリー倶楽部), Villa of Kingdom of Hawaii (ハワイ王国公使別邸 Hawaii Okoku koshi Bettei), Ikaho Shrine (伊香保神社 Ikaho Jinja), Hoshina Art Museum (保科美術館 Hoshina Bijutukan), Ikaho Paper Cutout Museum (伊香保切り絵美術館 Ikaho Kirie Bijutsukan), Ikaho Tokuro Pottery (伊香保陶句郎窯 Ikaho Tokurogama), Haruna Shrine (榛名神社 Haruna Jinja), Mizusawa Temple (水澤寺 Mizusawatera), Hosui Temple (法水寺 Hosuiji), Mizusawa Kannon Statue (水沢観音 Mizusawa Kannon) and Lake Haruna (榛名湖 Harunako). There are many Instagram spots at these places. Healing onsen bath houses include: Ikaho Rotenburo (伊香保露天風呂), Ikaho Onsen Ishidannoyu (石段の湯), koganenoyukan (黄金の湯館), Kanashima Onsen Fuukinoyu (金島温泉　富貴の湯), Onoue Onsen Sachinoyu (小野上温泉　さちの湯), Kitatachibana Onsen Bandonoyu (北橘温泉　ばんどうの湯), Shirai Onsen Komochinoyu (白井温泉　こもちの湯). Summary of Ikaho Onsen Oyado Tamaki- Shibukawa City, Gunma Prefecture As seen in the video, you will be given a warm Japanese ryokan style welcome by the landlady, chefs and other staff at Ikaho Onsen Oyado Tamaki in Gunma Prefecture. You will receive the same kind of warm send-off as well when you leave. By the time you leave, you will have refreshed your body and mind and have made good memories. There's no doubt you'll be thinking about coming back again, too. If you want to enjoy a sightseeing trip where you can experience hospitality at a traditional Japanese onsen ryokan, be sure to check out this video and experience the comfort of Oshuku Tamaki. Room rates for reservations vary by season, room, and plan, so please check the official website and travel websites before booking. ◆Oyado Tamaki◆ 【Address】87-2 Ikaho, Ikaho Town, Shibukawa City, Gunma Prefecture 377-0102 Japan 【Access】Around 15 minutes by taxi and 25 minutes by bus from Shibukawa Station (Ikaho Onsen ・Harunakoguchi) on the JR Joetsu Line. 20 minutes by car from Shibukawa Ikaho IC on Kanetsu Highway 【Parking】Yes. 50m away from the buildings 【Telephone No.】0279-72-2232 【Official Website】Ikaho Onsen Oyado Tamaki Official Site [Lowest Price Gurantee] https://www.oyado-tamaki.com/language/en/index.html 【Tripadvisor】Ikaho Onsen https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g1021199-d1424017-Reviews-Ikaho_Onsen-Shibukawa_Gunma_Prefecture_Kanto.html 【Tripadvisor】Shibukawa City https://www.tripadvisor.com/Tourism-g1021199-Shibukawa_Gunma_Prefecture_Kanto-Vacations.html