Lake Sagami Illumillion! This time, we'll introduce the video "Lake Sagami Illumillion 2019-2020 Digest" (さがみ湖イルミリオン2019-2020ダイジェスト), publicized by "Lake Sagami Pleasure Forest." Lake Sagami Illumillion is an illumination event held at Lake Sagami Pleasure Forest in Sagamihara City, Kanagawa Prefecture, in Japan's Kanto Region. The video contains highlights of Lake Sagami Illumillion's 2019-2020 season. What Kind of Illumination Events Are There at Lake Sagami Illumillion? Source :YouTube screenshot There are many events at Lake Sagami Illumillion, including Rainbow Lift, shown at 0:04 in the video, the Hot Air Balloon of Light, which can be seen at 0:18 in the video, and more! From 0:34 in the video, you can see the City of Light and Music, the main attraction of Lake Sagami Illumillion 2019, in detail. Spots such as the Zoo of Light, the Flower Garden of Light and the Aquarium of Light are also shown in the video, so please take your time and enjoy it. Lake Sagami Illumillion Photo：Sagamihara Illumination Lake Sagami Illumillion is a popular event chosen as one of the 3 great illuminations of the Kanto Region. An astonishing 6 million lights are used for the event. In addition to the spots introduced in the video, there are many other mysterious areas such as the Sea of Light, Tulip Lane, Fantasy Walk: The Seven Colored Galaxy, Illumillion Tree, full of Christmas spirit, The Fortress of Trickery/The Maze of Light, and more! We recommend enjoying the nighttime attractions, such as the Ferris Wheel of Life, Pilot Paradise, or seeing a show. About Lake Sagami Pleasure Forest Lake Sagami Pleasure Forest is a leisure destination located in Wakayanagi (若柳,Wakayanagi), Midori Ward (緑区, Midoriku), Sagamihara City, Kanagawa Prefecture. The amusement park area is popular for its outdoor sports facilities, such as the attractions of Paddington Town, the thrill ride "Ozoratengoku," and the "Muscle Monster" athletic facility. There is also a barbecue area, a souvenir shop, and a spot where you can enjoy spending time with your pets. Summary of Lake Sagami Illumillion Source :YouTube screenshot At Lake Sagami Pleasure Forest's popular "Lake Sagami Illumillion" event, you too can enjoy the stunning illumination featured in the video. Event times and lighting schedules change every year, so be sure to check the website before heading out. Please note that it is very crowded on weekends. We recommend taking a bus tour to visit. ◆Lake Sagami Pleasure Forest Facility Information◆ 【Address】〒252-0175 1634 Wakayanagi, Midori Ward, Sagamihara City, Kanagawa Prefecture 【Access】An 8-minute bus ride from JR Sagamihara Station 【Admission Fee】Adults:1800 yen Children:1100 yen 【Hours】Weekdays 10:00〜16:00, Weekends 9:00〜17:00 【Closures】Irregular 【Parking】Available 【Telephone】0570-037-353 【Official Website】Lake Sagami Pleasure Forest https://www.sagamiko-resort.jp/ 【Tripadvisor】Lake Sagami Pleasure Forest https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g1021282-d1881044-Reviews-Sagami_Lake_Resort_Pleasure_Forest-Sagamihara_Kanagawa_Prefecture_Kanto.html

A Look at Shiga Kogen! This video, titled "Shigakogen PV 2019," released by the "Shiga Kogen Cableway Association," is an introductory video of the Shiga Kogen Ski Resort in Nagano Prefecture. Shiga Kogen is a plateau in the central area of Joshinetsu Kogen National Park, located in Yamanochi, Shimotakai, Nagano and has an elevation of more than 2,000 meters. It is known as one of the largest ski resort areas in Japan and has also been designated as UNESCO Eco Park. Shiga Kogen Ski Resort was also the first ski resort in Japan to have a ski lift installed. After that, a new pulse gondola, snowboard slopes, and a snow park were installed, and it became a Mecca for winter sports in the Chubu region. A Look at the Shiga Kogen Ski Resort Featured in the Video Source :YouTube screenshot At the Shiga Kogen Ski Resort, there are 18 courses. They are as follows: ・Sun Valley Ski Area [Video 0:03] ・Maruike Ski Area [Video 0:07] ・Hasuike Ski Area [Video 0:10] ・Giant Ski Area [Video 0:14] ・Ichinose Family Ski Area [Video 0:17] ・Ichinose Diamond Ski Area [Video 0:21] ・Ichinose Yamanokami Ski Area [Video 0:25] ・Takamagahara Mammoth Ski Area [Video 0:29] ・Higashidateyama Ski Area [Video 0:33] ・Nishidateyama Ski Area [Video 0:36] ・Hoppo Bunadaira Ski Area [Video 0:40] ・Tannenomori Okojo Ski Area [Video 0:44] ・Terakoya Ski Area [Video 0:47] ・Okushiga Ski Area [Video 0:51] ・Yakebitaiyama Ski Area (Yakebitaiyama) [Video 0:55] ・Kumanoyu Ski Area [Video 0:59] ・Yokoteyama Ski Area [Video 1:03] ・Shibutoge Ski Area [Video 1:06] Sightseeing at Shiga Kogen During Summer and Autumn Photo：Jigokudani Hot Springs Shiga Kogen is great not only for winter, as shown in the video, but also for hiking/trekking during spring and summer and in autumn when the leaves change color. There are mountain trails, promenades, and campgrounds so you can enjoy relaxing activities in the great outdoors. At Shiga Kogen, you'll see natural phenomena related to volcanoes, weather, and water conditions, such as the Jigokudani Hot Springs at Shibutoge which has been designated a national natural monument, or the branches of the deciduous broad-leaf trees that are prone to the formation of rime. Shiga Kogen is also getting attention as a habitat for animals such as stoats, Asian black bears, Japanese serow, and golden eagles, as well as plants such as beech and oak trees. At Shiga Kogen, there's also the Prince Hotel and other charming onsen (hot springs) to enjoy. Here we'll list a few of them. ・Kumanoyu Onsen ・Kidoike Onsen ・Kumanoyu Hotaru Onsen ・Shigayama Onsen ・Takamagahara Onsen ・Makuiwa Onsen ・Maruike/Hasuike Onsen Summary of Shiga Kogen Photo：Shiga Kogen Shiga Kogen is an attractive tourist spot where you can enjoy different scenery in every season. Shiga Kogen Ski Resort also has a ski school and equipment rental plans, so even beginners can easily try out to the slopes. We recommend checking directions and price information beforehand and also checking the snowfall using the live cameras as well. 【Official Website】Shiga Kogen Ski Resort https://www.shigakogen-ski.com/en

The Etiquette of Light Tea and Sweets in the Urasenke School of Tea Ceremony This video, titled "【Urasenke Chado】Usu-cha and Light Sweets (【裏千家茶道】お菓子と薄茶のいただき方), was released by "Koko Chashitsu." In the traditional Japanese tea school of Urasenke, there is etiquette that says one must have omogashi (main sweets) with koi-cha (thick tea) and higashi (dried sweets) when drinking usu-cha (thin tea). Let’s check out the etiquette of Urasenke’s light tea and sweets by watching this video. The Etiquette of the Urasenke School of Tea Ceremony Photo：Matcha and Wagashi After the tea has been served by the host, the guest of honor will say "お先に" (O saki ni "Please excuse me for drinking first") while bowing to the second guest of honor, then place the tea bowl in front of their knees and say "お点前ちょうだいします" (O te mae choudai shimasu "Thank you for the tea"). This can be seen from 0:06 in the video. Following this, they take the tea bowl in their left hand, put their right hand on the side of the bowl, and drink after having rotated the bowl clockwise twice. The last sip will be sipped while making a slurping sound, cleaning off the drinking area with one's index finger and thumb, then cleaning the fingertips with a special paper called kaishi. After that, the tea bowl is placed on the outside edge of the tatami mat, returning it with both hands. One of each kind of the higashi that are served in the sweets container should be taken by hand and eaten after bowing once. If there are 2 types of higashi, proper etiquette is to take the one furthest away from you first and then the one closest to you. You can see the higashi being eaten from 0:16 in the video. The Tools Used by the Urasenke School of Tea Ceremony Photo：Tea Ceremony Other than the tea bowl, there are various tools used for tea ceremony. In the Urasenke school of tea ceremony, these include the "chasen" (茶筅, bamboo tea whisk), "hishaku" (柄杓, ladle), "chashaku" (茶杓, bamboo tea spoon), "mizusashi" (水指, container for fresh water), "kensui" (建水, container for waste-water), "futaoki" (蓋置, rest for the lid of a teakettle), and the "chakin" (茶巾, tea cloth). The tea bowl is placed before the knees and the brazier is placed directly in front of the "Katomado" (bell-shaped window). As for the "fukusa" (silk cloth) which is used when handling tools in the Urasenke school of tea ceremony, women use red or plain vermilion colors and men use a plain purple color. In addition, in tea ceremony, there are detailed teachings on the meaning of the tools and how to properly handle them, such as the "Shikaden" (四カ伝 "four transmissions"). More About the Urasenke School of Tea Urasenke is one of the grand master tea schools of tea ceremony. The name Urasenke was given because as opposed to the main family Omotesenke (omote = front) who succeeded Sen no Rikyu, Konnichian was seen from the back (ura) when looked at from the street. The Urasenke school of tea ceremony, as well as Omotesenke and other schools all have detailed differences in etiquette regarding usu-cha and koi-cha and the order in which things are done. There are events such as Ryurei and Hatsugama at the grand master tea schools, so if you're interested consider checking these out as well. Summary of Urasenke's Tea Etiquette Photo：Tea Ceremony The video goes over the method of drinking tea according to the Urasenke shool of tea ceremony. Tea ceremony may seem difficult, but there is a point in learning the etiquette, so it's easy to get hooked once you experience it. There are tea ceremony schools giving lessons all over Japan, so if you are interested, consider checking out their websites, looking for a school nearby, and learning how it's performed? You may even find yourself receiving a certificate if you study hard! 【Official Website】Urasenke Official Website http://www.urasenke.or.jp/texte/index.html

More Than 60 Years of Space Development at JAXA The video this time is titled "JAXA - The History of Japanese Space Exploration" (JAXA－日本の宇宙開発史ハイライト－), released by "JAXA | Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency." By looking up at the starry sky, many people ponder their own thoughts... we've been gazing up at the sky as a source of wisdom since ancient times. There was a time in Japan, too, when Onmyodo (the way of Yin and Yang) played an active role in politics by reading the movements of the stars and predicting good fortune. There's truly an inseparable link between humans and the cosmos. It is often misunderstood that Japan lags behind Europe and the United States in space development, but in fact, Japan has devoted more than 60 years to space development and is now one of the most successful countries in the world. JAXA plays a central role in Japan's space development. In this article, we’ll introduce the history of JAXA's space development. Be sure to follow along with the video! The History of Jaxa's Space Development Photo：Moon landing JAXA is the core organization for space development in Japan. It was established at the Tanegashima Space Center (TNSC) in 2003 through a merger between the Institute of Space and Astronautical Science (ISAS), the National Aerospace Laboratory (NAL), and the National Space Development Agency of Japan (NASDA). The three predecessor organizations were all privately funded space development agencies, but after being reborn as JAXA, they became the core organization supporting the Japanese government's space development research. The latest Japanese space probes have the world's leading technology. Here are some of JAXA's accomplishments that have left their mark on history. ・In 2007, the world's first high-definition image of the moon by the Lunar Explorer KAGUYA. (Video: 0:47〜) ・In 2009, the Japanese Experiment Module "Kibo" was completed. (Video: 0:53〜) ・In 2010, the planetary probe "Hayabusa" returned to Earth after successfully collecting surface samples from an asteroid. (Video: 0:58〜) ・In 2019, "Hayabusa2," an observation rocket, successfully touched down on the asteroid Ryugu. (Video : 1:00〜) JAXA has accomplished many great feats in the 17 years since it was founded. Japan's Space Development Before the Birth of JAXA Source :YouTube screenshot Japan's space development began in 1955 with the development of the Pencil Rocket, a very small rocket, as introduced in the beginning of the video. Just ten years after the war, Japan had already begun its domestic reconstruction and space development. In 1970, Japan's first satellite, "OHSUMI," was successfully launched. In 1985, Halley's comet was observed by "Suisei," in 1992, Mamoru Mohri became the first Japanese person to fly in space aboard a space shuttle, and in 1994, the Japan-made H-II rocket was successfully launched. Japan has a long history of great achievements even before the birth of JAXA. Summary of JAXA and Japan's Space Development Photo：Rocket It is said that Japan's space development had been attracting a great deal of attention after its Pencil launch test in 1955. The Pencil Rocket was nicknamed the "baby rocket" because of its extremely small size, with three types being developed: the S-type, T-type and R-type. At that time, the Pencil Rocket was already moving at close to the speed of sound, and the orbital data was utilized for the later Kappa Rockets. Back then it was thought to be impossible for Japan to develop a sounding rocket that could operate at an altitude of more than 100 km, but Japan succeeded in doing so using domestic technology alone. Although the U.S. and the Soviet Union have been the major space powers, Japan's technological prowess has been adopted by other countries for their rocket development. In particular, the latest engine technology of "Hayabusa" and remote-control technology will be a great asset to the history of space development to come. 【Official Website】JAXA｜Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency https://global.jaxa.jp/

Video introduction of a stroll through the Atami Nakamise Shopping Street in Atami City, Shizuoka Prefecture This video is titled “Introduction to Atami Nakamise Shopping Street（熱海 仲見世商店街 紹介動画）” and it was created by “Atami Nakamise Shopping Street.” Atami is a popular resort since it is easy to get to from Japan's Kanto region. There are many retro and nostalgic views in Atami, as you can see in the video. In front of the station, is Heiwa Street, the Hellos Atami Building, and ATAMIX. You can go shopping, eat the local food and look for souvenirs. There's also a foot bath in front of the station, so you can feel like you've stepped into a hot spring resort as soon as you come out of the station. Let’s explore the attractions of Nakamise Street in Tawarahoncho, Atami, Shizuoka. Recommended Spots and Popular Food! Source : YouTube screenshot Nakamise Street starts from “Lusca” which is built within the station grounds. The video shows shops, hotels and a view of Nakamise Street. The shops sell "kamaboko" (dried fish), seen at 1:29 in the video, as well as "satsuma-age" (fried fishcakes) and "iso-age" another type of seafood. Some of them have been in business for 70 years and you can buy local food such as rice crackers and hot spring manju which is shown at 0:54 in the video. Hyakunen Youkan is a popular sweet sold by “Honke Tokiwagi”; a long-established Japanese sweets shop. Atami pudding is also popular among instagrammers, due to its photogenic nature. There are also restaurants and cafes for sushi and other types of seafood. Sightseeing in Atami! Photo：Kinomiya Shrine We highly recommend going sightseeing around Atami station, while visiting Atami. Some good places include the MOA Museum of Art, Kinomiya Shrine(来宮神社, Kinomiya Jinja), Akao Herb and Rose Garden, Kiunkaku, Izusan Shrine (伊豆山神社, Izusan Jinja), Atami Plum Garden, Atami Trick Art Museum, Atami Sun Beach, Atami Castle and the statue of Omiya and Kan-Ichi. We recommend taking the Atami ropeway to Mt. Hachiman (八幡山, Hachiman Yama) and admiring the scenery as well. Also be sure to check out some of the events in Atami, like Hatsushima's fireworks display and the Atami Sea Fireworks display. A Stroll Through Atami Summed Up Source :YouTube screenshot There are many shops on Atami Nakamise Shopping Street, where you can find local food and delicious sweets. Be sure to grab a map before strolling around Atami Nakamise Shopping Street as it will make your time in Atami much more easily navigable. The average time spent on Nakamise is about two hours. Checking the map and planning out where you want to go beforehand is great way to make sure you don't get overwhelmed by the crowd. There are cheap parking lots around the street as well, so keep that in mind if you plan on going by car. 【TripAdvisor】Atami Ginza Shopping District https://www.tripadvisor.com/ShowUserReviews-g298122-d19121792-r736995457-Atami_Ginza_Shopping_District-Atami_Shizuoka_Prefecture_Tokai_Chubu.html

Video introduction of “Shirahage Shrine” in Takashima City, Shiga Prefecture, Japan This video, titled "Shirahige Shrine - Shiga - 白鬚神社 - 4K Ultra HD," introduces the beautiful scenery of Shirahige Shrine, a tourist attraction located on the shores of Lake Biwa in northern Shiga prefecture. Shirahige Shrine is a beautiful shrine that is also popular as a power spot. If you're headed out on a sightseeing trip to Shiga prefecture's Lake Biwa, be sure to visit Shirahige Shrine! The vermilion torii gate floating on the lake is a mysterious and beautiful sight. The History of Shirahige Shrine, a Power Spot in Shiga Prefecture Photo：The torii gate of Shirahige Shrine, Shiga Prefecture Shirahige Shrine, located on the shores of Lake Biwa in Shiga Prefecture, is a historical shrine that is considered to be the main shrine of all Shirahige Shrines throughout the country. Shirahige Shrine is said to have been built some 1900 years ago, around the time of Emperor Suinin, the 11th emperor of Japan, and is believed to be the oldest shrine in Omi, Shiga Prefecture. Originally, there is a theory that god Hira who dwelt in the Hira Mountains of Shiga Prefecture was enshrined here as a deity. It is believed that Shirahige Shrine blesses people with longevity, and after the Kamakura Period (1185-1333), the Ashikaga shogun often visited the shrine and it was widely revered by warlords. Check Out the Sights at Shirahige Shrine on the Shores of Lake Biwa in Shiga Prefecture! Photo：The torii gate of Shirahige Shrine, Shiga Prefecture The charm of Shirahige Shrine is of course the superb view of the vermilion Shirahige Shrine Torii that stands in Lake Biwa. When traffic on Lake Biwa thrived, the Shirahige Shrine Torii is said to have served as a place of worship. The large torii gate of Shirahige Shrine has a strong power that protects Lake Biwa, Japan's largest lake. If you go to Shirahige Shrine for sightseeing, don't forget to receive a shuin stamp as well! In the precincts of Shirahige Shrine, there's a monument to Murasaki Shikibu, famous for "The Tale of Genji," and Matsuo Basho, who composed many waka poems in Omi. We highly recommend checking this out if you have the chance. Sightseeing Around Shiragane Shrine, Near the Famous Lake Biwa! Source :YouTube screenshot At the far end of the premises of Shirahige Shrine is a small hut called Iwato Shrine. This shrine can be seen from 4:09 in the video. In addition, there are several ancient tombs scattered deep in the mountains behind the shrine. When the weather is nice, take a hike along the trail to enjoy the natural scenery and visit the historical tombs. After sightseeing, we recommend stopping by Shirahige Shokudo (白ひげ食堂) or Shirahige Soba (白ひげ蕎麦) in the surrounding area to enjoy the unique, hole-in-the-wall gourmet food of Shiga Prefecture. Summary of Shiga Prefecture's Shiragane Shrine Photo：The torii gate of Shirahige Shrine, Shiga Prefecture The majestic, vermillion torii gate of Shirahage Shrine that stands in the dignified Lake Biwa is, as you can see at 0:08 in the video, a beauty that can hardly be described in words. In recent years, the mystical Shirahige Shrine Torii standing in Lake Biwa, has become a popular place for taking Instagram photos. Be sure to visit Shirahige Shrine by Lake Biwa, one of the most popular power spots in Shiga Prefecture! ◆Shirahige Shrine｜General Information◆ 【Address】215 Ukawa, Takashima, Shiga 【Access】Approximately 3 km from JR Omi Takashima Station 【Telephone】0740-36-1555 【Tripadvisor】Shirahige Shrine https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g1023578-d1529714-Reviews-Shirahige_Shrine-Takashima_Shiga_Prefecture_Kinki.html

7-Dan Fujii and the Asahi Cup This video is titled "7-Dan Fujii, 2nd Consecutive Asahi Cup｜Shogi, 2nd Since 9-Dan Habu" (藤井七段、朝日杯2連覇 将棋、羽生九段以来2人目). It is a news video introducing the achievements of 7-dan Fujii who achieved 2nd consecutive Asahi Cup wins, released by "KyodoNews." He is only the second player in history to win the Asahi Cup twice in a row, after 9-dan Habu, and he showed us why, with his incredible performance during his matches. The media covered this massive feat extensively and brought it to the attention of the nation. In this article, I would like to introduce you to the 7-dan, Fujii, the youngest professional Shogi player in the world. Fujii's Feat in the Shogi Asahi Cup Source :YouTube screenshot On February 16, 2019, at the 12th Asahi Cup Open, held at the Yurakucho Asahi Hall in Tokyo's Chiyoda Ward, 7-dan Sota Fujii defeated the titleholder, Akira Watanabe, in the final to win the tournament. More impressive was that it was Fujii's first time playing against a title holder. Fujii 7-dan also won the tournament in the last round, defeating 9-dan Habu and others who had an overwhelming record of successive victories. This is an amazing accomplishment, and he is only the 2nd person in history since 9-dan Yoshiharu Habu to achieve this feat. You can see the final match against Akira Watanabe from 0:07 in the video. This is Fujii's first win since the 2018 Shinjin-O tournament, and he is delighted with his victory. We're looking forward to see what he can do in the future. In a post-game interview with Fujii, which can be seen at 0:41 in the video, he mentions that he "would like to use this experience to do my best and become stronger." In the interview at 1:05, Akira Watanabe acknowledges the strength of Fujii, and says that Fujii will only continue to get better. As shogi players, they are both still aiming for the top. Who Is Sota Fujii? Source :YouTube screenshot Sota Fujii was born in Seto City, Aichi Prefecture, in 2002, and started playing shogi at the age of five, influenced by his maternal grandparents. At the age of 13, he became the youngest player ever to be promoted to 3-dan, and at 14, he went on to become a professional. He is the fifth person in history to become a professional shogi player while still in junior high school, following Hifumi Kato, Koji Tanikawa, Yoshiharu Habu and Akira Watanabe. He made his professional debut in 2016 in a ranking match against Hifumi Kato, which resulted in a victory. He is the youngest player to win an official game, at 14 years and 5 months. From there, he racked up a string of victories, winning 29 matches in a row after his debut. His dominant performance has attracted a lot of attention from the media. After that, he continued to improve his skills as a junior high school professional, breaking various records such as 50 wins and becoming the youngest player to win a total of 100 games. As a challenger, he has challenged masters, titles, and higher ranking masters and achieved a lot of victories. Fujii's Incredible Ability Source :YouTube screenshot The brilliance of Sota Fujii is the speed at which he can read the game as well as his strong early game, but most of all, professional players say that his endgame is especially impressive. Yoshiharu Habu has said of Fujii, that he is "good at cutting off the edges in the shortest possible course" and that he is similar to Koji Tanigawa, a 17th generation master. He is the pinnacle of shogi players, as he is not only unimaginably accomplished for his age, but also has great potential for the future. There are high expectations for him taking both the Meijin and Ryūō ranks. As of February 2020, Fujii ranks 3rd in terms of rating, which indicates his shogi prowess. Summary of 7-Dan Sota Fujii, the Young Genius Photo：Shogi "7-Dan Fujii, 2nd Consecutive Asahi Cup｜Shogi, 2nd Since 9-Dan Habu" is a video that introduces the feat of 7-dan Sota Fujii, who achieved 2 consecutive Asahi Cup victories. In the 13th Asahi Cup Open held in 2020, Sota Fujii broke through qualifying without difficulty, but lost to 7-dan Shota Chida in a semi-final round, and was unable to secure a third victory. We hope you enjoyed this article on Sota Fujii, the up and coming Shogi genius. If you're interested in trying out Shogi, don't be shy! It's a lot of fun!

Universal Studios Japan's "Best Christmas Tree in the World" The video "The World's Best Christmas Tree- Universal Studios Japan's Light Show（電飾世界一のＸマスツリー USJ 光の演出）" shows the scene of the famous Christmas tree at Universal Studios Japan that was released to the press. The giant Christmas tree features 591,840 tiny illuminations! Also the largest snow crystal shape ornament is placed at the very top of the 30 meter tall Christmas tree. The number of illuminations and the snow crystal shape ornament displayed on this Christmas tree, which has been officially recognized in the Guinness Book of World Records, are magnificent. Please admire the beauty of this wondrous Christmas tree. The Universal Crystal Christmas Source :YouTube screenshot In winter of 2019, Universal Studios Japan organized the Christmas event from November 14, 2019 to January 13, 2020. Kanjani 8, a famous Japanese idol group was appointed as the ambassadors of the event. During this event, there was the new live show called “ The Crystal Promise “ instead of “The voice of an angel” that had been performed in the 2018 Christmas show. You can see this live show in this video (0:09). Also you shouldn’t miss the Yellow Christmas held concurrently in the Minion Park, and the limited-time Christmas goods to be sold. Everyone loves USJ's Christmas events, but keep in mind that the waiting time for events or attractions may be longer than usual if the park is crowded. What Kind of Theme Park Is Universal Studios Japan? Photo：Universal Studios Japan USJ is the famous theme park where you can experience Hollywood movies produced by Steven Spilelberg! According to the Trip Advisor, Universal Studios Japan ranks among the top theme parks in Japan such as "Tokyo Disney Land" and "Tokyo Disney Sea." Universal Studios Japan has various types of attractions such as Jurassic Park or Gramercy Park in several areas including New York or San Francisco. Everyone is looking forward to the new Nintendo area to be opened in 2020 where visitors can experience the world of Super Mario Brothers." There are too many attractions as well as eating places and souvenir shops in the park to be covered by a day trip. You can visit the Universal Studios Japan by overnight or a day trip and enjoy this theme park in any way you choose. Summary of Christmas Displays and Events at Universal Studios Japan Source :YouTube screenshot You can find how wonderful Christmas at Universal Studios Japan is just by watching this 1 minute video. If you want to create unforgettable memories during Christmas, we recommend going and seeing the awesome tree and events that USJ has to offer! 【Official Website】Universal Studios Japan｜USJ https://www.usj.co.jp/e/

The Video That’ll Take You Back Through the History of Cell Phones in Japan! The video we’ll introduce this time is one that looks back through the history of cell phones in the 30 years of the Heisei era. The video is called "【On-Site】Memory of Heisei, 30 Years of ‘Cell Phone’ Evolution（【現場から、】平成の記憶、「携帯電話」進化の３０年）"and is publicized by ‘TBS NEWS’. To say that cell phones are a truly indispensable infrastructure in Japan, a modern society, is not an exaggeration. A network disruption, once it takes place, becomes news all throughout society. In the early days of the Heisei era (around 1989), the use of cell phones was few and the general public did not carry them regularly. Now, the norm is 1 phone per person. Let’s look into the history of cell phones to see how they managed to evolve to a such great extent. History of Cell Phones 1: When Did the History Begin? The Early-Heisei Era and the Rise of Cell Phones Source :YouTube screenshot The history of cell phones began with shoulder phones launched in Showa 60 (1985). This can be seen from 0:37 in the video. At the time, it weighed 3kg and required ¥200,000 as a deposit on top of basic charge and call charges, so only about 490,000 contracts were made and it was a status symbol during the bubble economy. It was remotely a commodity in the wider society. The youngsters who only know of present cell phones would be astounded by its stunningly large size. As time passed, it became smaller little by little but didn’t amount to wide dissemination among the public. Then came the Heisei era. In the early days of the Heisei era, the size of shoulder phones became small and pagers and PHS were in. And in Heisei 11 (1999), the history of cell phones reached a tipping point. People not only talked on cell phones, they started to use them. Cell phones were dubbed Ketai and Docomo launched i-mode. Now connected to the internet, the number of cell phone contracts in Japan exploded. Source :YouTube screenshot In Heisei 12 (2000), ringtone service began, and in Heisei 14 (2002), cell phones with a camera were launched causing the ‘PIX’ (a message with a picture), fad. 1seg was also equipped to the phones, enabling people to watch TV programs on them, marking the transition from the period of analogue technology to one of digital. This is shown from 1:30 in the video. By then, the number of contracts had reached around 81 million, and a society in which almost every Japanese carried a phone was forming. With au (formerly IDO) and vodafone (formerly J-PHONE) joining the market with Docomo, it was a period where designs of phones became stylish and cool and communication technology saw a massive improvement. History of Cell Phones 2: Feature phones that went through a unique evolution in Japan! Source :YouTube screenshot In Japan, folding cell phones were popular until the mid-Heisei era. They were called "Garake", and many used it on a daily basis. The history of cell phones reached a critical juncture which led to modern cell phones. In Heisei 20 (2008), Softbank Mobile started selling the iPhone in Japan. On the day of release, more than 1,500 people lined up in a queue craving for the iPhone. Masayoshi Son, the CEO of Softbank Mobile at the time, said “the computer is now in the palm of your hand”, which is shown from 2:00 in the video. Smartphone was dubbed Sumaho (based on the Japanese pronunciation) and became widely popular. With the advent of smartphones, ‘Insta-bae’ where people take photos and upload them to the social media such as Instagram became a trend. Many companies now provide kakuyasu smartphones where prices are cheaper than they used to be. The video describes how smartphones now ‘connect’ people 24 hours, both in good and bad ways. History of Cell Phones 3 Evolution of phones into the future! Source :YouTube screenshot Japan, now in the Reiwa era, a period of next generation wireless communications has already begun. Starting with 5G, providing a speed a hundred times faster than the present, the use of electronic money is expanding as well. App stores are overflowing with new apps as well, making them indispensable in everyday life. Remote control of a robot is possible with just the touch of a button on your phone in this period. This can be seen at 3:03 in the video. How will cell phones transform in the future? No one can say for sure. Only time will tell. Summary of the History of Cell Phones This time, we introduced the history of cell phones in Japan. We’re sure many of you felt the nostalgia watching the video. The 30-year-long Heisei era is known as the period where phones went through an unimaginable evolution, but we can’t be more excited about the transformation of phones, becoming more and more convenient, in the future!

Video Introduction to Sunpu Castle, built by Ieyasu Tokugawa in Shizuoka City, Shizuoka Prefecture The video, titled "Top 100 Castles of Japan｜Sunpu Castle," was created by "castle shrine." It introduces Sunpu Castle in Aoi, Shizuoka, Shizuoka. Sunpu Castle is a castle built by Tokugawa Ieyasu and has been chosen as one of Japan’s Top 100 Castles. The castle is also called Fuchu Castle and Shizuoka Castle. During the Edo period (1603 to 1868), the Sunpu domain and head of Sunpu Castle were established. At present, the site of the inner citadel and the ruins of the outer citadel have been transformed into Sunpu Castle Park. Public facilities such as the prefectural government office and the Shizuoka District Legal Affairs Office are located in the outermost area of the castle. About Sunpu Castle and Its History Photo：Sunpu Castle Ruins park・Statue of Tokugawa Ieyasu Shizuoka City in Shizuoka Prefecture was ruled around the 14th century by the Imagawa clan, the Suruga Protectorate of the Muromachi Shogunate. In 1585, Tokugawa Ieyasu, the ruler of Suruga, moved the castle from Hamamatsu Castle to the present site and began to build Surpu Castle in 1585. Sunpu Castle was completed in 1589, but Tokugawa Ieyasu was transferred to Kanto by order of Toyotomi Hideyoshi, and Nakamura Kazuuji became the lord of the castle. In 1605, Tokugawa Ieyasu handed over the title of Shogunate to Tokugawa Hidetada, who designated Sunpu the seat of government for the imperial family. He expanded Sunpu Castle and laid the foundation for the present-day cityscape by dividing Sunpu Castle Town into sections and creating a flood control project for the Abe River. In honor of his career, a bronze statue of Tokugawa Ieyasu was erected in the castle. It can be seen at 2:43 in the video. The interior of Sunpu Castle has been extensively reconstructed, and in 2016, an excavation of the castle tower was carried out to determine the condition of the tower's stone walls and to collect academic data. You can see the site of the excavation work at 2:50 in the video. Highlights of Sunpu Castle Photo：Sunpu Castle There are a lot of things to see at Sunpu Castle. The East Gate, which can be seen at 1:39 in the video, was restored in 1996. Tatsumi Tower, reconstructed in 1989, is one of the few castles in Japan with an L-shaped layout, and was an effective turret for the protection of Sunpu Castle. The complex waterway of the Ninomaru channel, which was discovered during research, is another highlight of the castle. Hitsujisaru Yagura is located in the southwest of Sunpu Castle's Outer Citadel Tower Although it looks like a double-roofed building, it is actually three stories high, and at the time it was used to defend against attacking enemies as an armory and a lookout. At the end of March 2014, it was restored using traditional wooden construction methods from that time period. All of the flooring and ceiling material on each floor have been removed, and some of it is glass, so you can see the subfloor structure of the tower. There's also Jodai Bridge and the Outer Citadel Gate too! You can also experience VR in the space-time room. At the attached Momijiyama Park, you can experience the atmosphere of a daimyo's garden. In spring, you can enjoy a cup of tea while admiring the seasonal changes in the cherry blossoms and other flowers. In the garden's teahouse, you can enjoy a variety of events such as tea ceremony, flower arranging, and haiku. Sunpu Castle General Information Photo：Mt. Shizuhata・Kunozan Toshogu Shrine Sunpu Castle is open from 9:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. and is closed on Mondays. Admission is ¥360 for adults and ¥120 for children for all three facilities (East Gate/Tatsumi Yagura, Hitsujisaru Yagura and Momijiyama Garden). The castle is a 15-minute walk from JR Shizuoka Station and a 12-minute walk from Shizuoka Railway Shin-Shizuoka Station. By car it's about 17 minutes from the Shizuoka Interchange of the Tomei Expressway and 18 minutes from the Shin-Shizuoka Interchange of the New Tomei Expressway. There is no parking lot available, so please use the parking lot in front of the Civic Cultural Center (市民文化会館). Nearby Sunpu Castle is Kunozan Toshogu Shrine, a national treasure. This is the shrine where Tokugawa Ieyasu was buried and the temple used to be the site of Kuno Castle. At Rinzai Temple (臨済寺, Rinzaiji), located at the foot of Mt. Shizuhata, there are tombs and a memorial tablet of the Imagawa clan. Summary of Sunpu Castle Photo：Sunpu Castle Park and Mt. Fuji What'd you think of Sunpu Castle, built by the great general of the Warring States period, Tokugawa Ieyasu? Why not visit Sunpu Castle and get a red seal stamp from one of "Top 100 Castles of Japan"? Sunpu Castle is the great place to revisit the history of the Warring States period and learn about the history of Japan! ◆Information◆ 【Address】1-1 Sunpujokoen, Aoi, Shizuoka, Shizuoka 424-0855 【Access】A 15-minute walk from JR Shizuoka Station and a 12-minute walk from Shizuoka Railway Shin-Shizuoka Station 【Admission fee】Tickets for all three facilities (East Gate/Tatsumi Yagura, Hitsujisaru Yagura and Momijiyama Garden) are ¥360 for adults and ¥120 for children. 【Hours】9 am to 4:30 pm (East Gate, Tatsumi Yagura and Momijiyama Garden) 【Parking】Available 【Telephone】054-251-0016 【Official Website】Sumpu Castle Park https://sumpu-castlepark.com/en/ 【Tripadvisor】Sumpu Castle Park https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g298124-d1568848-Reviews-Shizuoka_castle-Shizuoka_Shizuoka_Prefecture_Tokai_Chubu.html

Video Introduction of "Kachoinomiya Residence" in Kamakura City, Kanagawa Prefecture This video, titled "Introduction to the Former Kacho-no-Miya Residence" (華頂宮邸の紹介), was released by "Crystal Palace Exposition" (水晶宮博覧会). The video introduces the Former Kacho-no-Miya Residence of Kamakura City in Kanagawa Prefecture. The residence is not only registered as a Tangible Cultural Property of Japan (Architecture), but has also been chosen as one of Japan’s "Top 100 Historical Gardens," and one of Kamakura’s "Top 3 Western-style Buildings." The elegant and beautiful appearance of the residence has led to it being the filming site for various television productions. In this article, we'll introduce the history and charms of the Former Kacho-no-Miya Residence. The History of the Former Kacho-no-Miya Residence Source :YouTube screenshot The Former Kacho-no-Miya Residence was built by Prince Kacho Hirotsune (博経親王), the 12th prince of the Fushiminomiya (伏見宮邦家) family, a branch of the imperial family. The current owner is Kacho Hirokazu (華頂博一). The branches of the imperial family formed in 1868 ceased to exist in the Taisho era, but the Kacho house continued to hold Shinto ceremonies. The original residence is said to have been in located in Mita, Minato, Tokyo. Now, a kindergarten can be found in that area. The residence shown in the video was moved to its current location in Kamakura in 1929. The Charms of the Former Kacho-no-Miya Residence Source :YouTube screenshot You can find the Former Kacho-no-Miya Residence behind Hokokuji Temple (鎌倉報国寺), which is famous for its bamboo garden. The three-story wooden residence has a charming Western retro atmosphere. As seen from 2:58 in the video, a French garden and various tearooms are located on the premises. There are many other spots to explore as well. In the spring, the weeping cherry trees burst into bloom, and in autumn, the leaves change to beautiful shades of red and yellow. The interior of the residence is only opened to the public twice a year, once in spring and once in autumn. Be sure to check the opening days before planning your visit. Summary of the Former Kacho-no-Miya Residence Source :YouTube screenshot This residence is a must-visit if you're making a trip to Kamakura. Other recommendations in Kamakura include the Ichijo Ekan Sanso House (一条恵観山荘), Jomyoji Temple (浄妙寺), Zuisenji Temple (瑞泉寺), and Sugimoto Temple (杉本寺). There are many popular lunch spots in Kamakura as well, so be sure to take your time and enjoy sightseeing! ◆Former Kacho-no-Miya Residence Facility Overview◆ 【Address】2-6-37, Jomyoji 2-chome, Kamakura City, Kanagawa 【Access】A 35-minute walk from JR Kamakura Station, or a 4-minute walk from the Jomyoji (浄明寺) bus stop from JR Kamakura Station. 【Admission Fee】Free 【Hours】April to September: 10:00-16:00 October to March: 10:00-15:00 【Closures】Mondays and Tuesdays 【Parking】None 【Phone】0467-61-3477 【Tripadvisor】Former Kacho-no-Miya Residence https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g303156-d6897781-Reviews-Old_Kachonomiya_House-Kamakura_Kanagawa_Prefecture_Kanto.html

Misaki Morning Market in Kanagawa Prefecture This is a promotional video titled “Kanagawa Prefecture, Miura City Tourism PR, (Misaki morning market)”（神奈川県三浦市観光PR「三崎朝市」）,” featuring the morning market in Miura, Kanagawa prefecture. Misaki Morning Market (三崎朝市, Misaki Asaichi) is very popular in that you can get local food, including fresh seafood, around Miura Peninsula, at a great price. The sales start at 5 a.m. every Sunday, but shoppers gather in front of the market as early as 3 a.m.! From 0:37 in the video, you can see the store selling pieces of local Misaki tuna at crazy low prices. Usually there is a long line in front of the store from 4 a.m, and sometimes all the merchandise is sold out as soon as the sales begin. What is Misaki Morning Market? Source :YouTube screenshot Misaki Morning Market, near Misaki Fishing Port (三崎漁港, Misaki Gyoko), is an event certified as the “local resource” by Kanagawa prefecture. It opens every Sunday. The market is so popular that it even attracts tourists outside of the city. Many people bring their pets with them as well. The market has seasonal local fish and seaweed, as well as local vegetables, eggs, and fruits. You can see this from 1:01 in the video. In 2019, the national morning market summit "2019 in Misaki Asaichi" was held there, and many tourists came to visit it. Special Deals and Shop Information of Misaki Morning Market Photo：Tuna Sometimes a sale called “Iki Iki Sale” is held. At this sale you can buy freshly caught fish at bargain prices. Also, Miura Tsunanosuke, the local character in Miura city, sometimes appears in the market, so definitely keep an eye out for him. After looking around the stores in the market, you can also drop by the market cafeteria “Misaki Asaichi Shokudo,” which is quite popular. You can try some dishes that are perfect for breakfast, such as Soba (buckwheat) noodles, tuna soup, and tuna rice bowls. You can even try Kurobatei’s rice bowl with tuna and galbi, Korean style short rib. This rice bowl called “Maguro Galbi Rice Bowl (まぐろカルビ丼, Maguro Galbi Don)” is very popular and actually won the grand prize in the local Gourmet contest “M-1.” At the smoke farm, you can also get freshly grilled sausages that are cooked to order. Summary of Misaki Morning Market Photo：Misaki Morning Market As you can see in this video, the vibrant atmosphere is the best characteristic of Misaki Morning Market. Many stores open in this market, so it’s easy to find what you're looking for. You can go to the market by train, but keep in mind that it opens before the first train starts to run so there's a chance you'll miss out on some specials. If you really want to get what you're looking for, it’s better to drive to the market if you can. ◆Misaki Morning Market Information◆ 【Address】5-3806 Misaki, Miura-shi, Kanagawa, Japan 【Hours】Open from 5 a.m. 【Access】A short walk from Keikyu Misakiguchi Station 【Parking】Yes 【Number】+81-(0)46-881-4488 【Official Website】Misaki Asaichi https://misaki-asaichi.com/ 【Tripadvisor】Misaki Asaichi https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g1021284-d8181258-Reviews-Misaki_Asaichi-Miura_Kanagawa_Prefecture_Kanto.html

News Video Introduction of the World Heritage Registration of "The National Museum of Western Art" in Taito-ku, Tokyo This is a breaking news video from July 2016, published by "ANNnewsCH", titled "The Ueno-National Museum of Western Art is a World Heritage Site; The 20th in Japan（上野・国立西洋美術館が世界遺産に　日本で20件目）". The UNESCO World Heritage Committee held in Istanbul, Turkey, in 2016, was on the 17 buildings around the world designed by French architect Le Corbusier. Le Corbusier's architectural works are "a remarkable contribution to the modern architectural movement", and as such, it was registered as a World Heritage site. The National Museum of Western Art, located in Ueno, Taito-ku, Tokyo, is one of the World Heritage sites that span multiple regions, including Europe, South America and Asia. What's So Amazing About Being Registered as a World Heritage Site, and What Are They? Source :This article Video Japan has many historic cultural and natural sites that have become world heritage sites such as Mt. Fuji, Himeji Castle, Yakushima, Shirakawa-go and Gokayama Gassho-zukuri Villages, the Atomic Bomb Dome, Itsukushima Shrine, and Shurijo Castle. The National Museum of Western Art, introduced in this video, has been registered as Japan's 20th World Heritage Site. The National Museum of Western Art, completed in 1959, is the only Corbusier building in Japan. One of the highlights of the building is its unique construction method which supports the first floor only using columns. This can be seen in the video at 0:35. This construction method had a great influence on modern Japanese architecture. The National Museum of Western Art, Tokyo has been registered by the World Heritage Convention as a World Heritage Site in recognition of its "prominent universal value". What Kind of Place Is the National Museum of Western Art? Source :This article Video The National Museum of Western Art, now registered as a World Heritage site, specializes in displaying modern Western art works. Originally, it started with a collection exhibition called the "Matsukata collection" (Koujiro Matsukata), but now there are many paintings and sculptures by European artists such as Monet and Van Gogh as well. In addition to the permanent exhibition at the main building, popular exhibition events such as the Habsburg exhibition also attract a lot of attention. A Summary of the National Museum of Western Art Photo : The National Museum of Western Art At 1:00 in the video, you can see the delight on their faces as the museums curators hear it will be registered as a World Heritage Site. When visiting Tokyo, consider taking a trip to the National Museum of Western Art, a beautiful architectural display housing many other works of art. ◆National Museum of Western Art, facility overview◆ 【Address】7-7 Ueno Park, Taito-ku, Tokyo 【Access】1 minute walk from JR Ueno Station 【Admission fee / ticket fee】500 yen for general, 250 yen for university students (* as of April 2020) 【Hours of Operation】 9:30 to 17:30, and 9:30 to 21:00 on Fridays and Saturdays 【Closures】Monday 【Average time spent here】About 90 minutes 【Official website】 The National Museum of Western Art https://www.nmwa.go.jp/en/

Kamogawa Oyama Senmaida" in Kamogawa City, Chiba Prefecture, a one-day trip from Tokyo, video introduction This video, titled "Chiba Hiratsuka terraced rice field - 棚田 - 4K Ultra HD," was released by "TokyoStreetView - Japan The Beautiful." Have you ever seen a terraced rice field? Many people think that you have to go to Niigata or other places in Japan's Tohoku region to see terraced rice fields. The video introduces the beautiful terraced rice fields of Kamogawa, Chiba a place easily accessible from Tokyo. Let's take a look at some of Japan's beautiful landscapes in the video! The Oyama Senmaida Terraced Rice Fields Photo：The Oyama Senmaida Terraced Rice Fields, Chiba Prefecture The Oyama Senmaida Terraced Rice Fields, featured in the video, is famous for being the closest terraced rice field to Tokyo. The area is 3.2 hectares, with more than 375 paddies extending across the hillside. Even today, many rice paddies are used for farming and this scenery can be said to be a classic Japanese landscape. Light-up event “Tanada no Akari” in Oyama Senmaida In addition to rice production, a viewing spot and observation floor are created, and the “Akari in the Terraced Rice Paddies” lighting event using 10,000 LED candles is usually held from late October to January each year. The 2024 event will be held from October 26 to January 13, 2025, from approximately 5:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. Admission is free. The beautiful scene of a sunrise created between the paddies at 0:31 is something that not even a high-quality video can do justice to. The Terraced Rice Fields Found All Over Japan Photo：Rice fields and mountains in rural Japan Many of Japan’s rice fields are built on an inclination. This has the advantage of allowing for easy water control and improved rice production. One drawback, however, is that these are stair-stepped on steep slopes with land that is difficult to drain due to narrow cultivation units, and there are many places with no successors. The Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries (MAFF) has designated 100 of the 134 terraced rice fields across Japan as the "Top 100 Terraced Rice Fields of Japan" in order to maintain the terraced rice fields and stimulate tourism in those areas. Although the word "terraced rice paddies" is used to describe the fields, the shape and characteristics of each paddy differs from place to place, so traveling across Japan to explore the different scenery of each area can make for a fun road trip! Many of these places have reputations for their Instagrammable and photogenic scenery as well. Famous Places to visit on Chiba Prefecture's Boso Peninsula Photo：Walruses at Kamogawa Sea World, Chiba Prefecture The Boso Peninsula in Chiba Prefecture, is home to the Oyama Senmaida Terraced Rice Fields. It can be easily accessed from Tokyo by JR limited express trains, express buses, and the Tokyo Bay Aqualine. On Boso Peninsula, many tourists visit Kamogawa Sea World, Mother Farm, and go swimming during the summer. In addition to the Oyama Senmaida Terraced Rice Fields, Boso Peninsula has many other sightseeing spots that make it an excellent travel destination. Summary of the Oyama Senmaida Terraced Rice Fields Photo：Oyama Senmaida Terraced Rice Fields, Chiba Prefecture We hope the beautiful scenery of the rice fields in the video provided a relaxing atmosphere. There are many terraced rice fields that can be found across Japan, so be sure to do some research before your trip to find one that you can visit! If you live in Japan you can also use the “owner system” to become the owner of a beautiful rice field and grow your own rice! 【Tripadvisor】The Oyama Senmaida Terraced Rice Fields https://www.tripadvisor.com/ShowUserReviews-g1021271-d1944760-r554882939-Oyama_Rice_Terraces-Kamogawa_Chiba_Prefecture_Kanto.html

Introducing the Beautiful Ceramic Art, Bizen Ware This video, titled "TEWAZA (Handicraft) Bizen Pottery / Japan traditional crafts Aoyama Square" (手技TEWAZA「備前焼」Bizen pottery／伝統工芸 青山スクエア Japan traditional crafts Aoyama Square), was released by "Traditional Crafts Aoyama Square." Bizen Ware is a traditional Japanese craft with a long history and is known as one of the "Six Ancient Kilns of Japan" and well as being known as "Inbe Yaki." Bizen Ware is a traditional pottery that is popular for its solid reddish/brownish color, glassy surface, and rugged texture, which are brought out by its unique unglazed appearance through a method of high-temperature firing via direct contact with the flame. A Closer Look at Okayama's Bizen Ware Photo：Bizen Ware Bizen Ware is made of unique clay obtained from the rice fields in Okayama Prefecture. It is called one of the "Six Ancients Kilns" because it can be found in literature dating back to the Heian period (794-1185 AD). Since then, Bizen Ware has continued to produce tea ware masterpieces and successors are still being trained today. Bizen Ware has long been a prominent part of the culture and industry of Okayama Prefecture, located in Japan's Chugoku Region (中国地方, Chugoku-Chiho), and is a representative pottery of Japan. Bizen Ware is a popular pottery with ancient traditions and prestige, and is valued highly, as some of the most famous kilns have produced artists and craftsmen who have been designated as living national treasures. Having said that, modern Bizen ware is not so expensive that its unaffordable. After the Kamakura period (around 1185 to 1333 A.D.), Bizen Ware was no longer used solely by nobles and aristocrats, but was also popular as everyday utensils used by samurai and townspeople alike. The beautiful brownish and reddish color surfaces of Bizen Ware are created by the minerals contained in the special clay obtained in the vicinity of Okayama. It's fired by covering it with oily pine ashes and placing straw over it so that it is in direct contact with the flame. By firing it at high temperatures, the minerals contained in the clay become vitrified, increasing the strength and luster of the surface. Because no chemicals are used, the texture is not smooth like porcelain, but rugged with a rustic texture. How Bizen Ware is Made Source :YouTube screenshot 1. Kneading the clay (Video 0:34～) Bizen Ware commonly uses clay that lies 3-5 meters below the surface of a rice field. 2. Molding (Video 0:48～) Remove the air from the clay making it sticky and preventing cracks and crevices from forming. A potters wheel is used here. 3. Drying (Video 1:29～) Allow it to dry thoroughly. 4. Setting in a kiln (Video 1:44～) Pieces are carefully placed into the kiln to achieve the most beautiful firing results. 5. Firing the kiln (Video 2:28～) Each piece is fired for more than 10 days. Bizen Ware Patterns as Shown in the Video Source :YouTube screenshot You can see the finished pieces in the video. ・Goma (Video 3:03～) Ashes from the firewood fall on the pieces during the firing process. The ashes react with the soil and become vitrified, creating a variety of patterns. ・Sangiri (Video 3:12～) Charcoal is thrown into the kiln at the end of the firing process to create a pattern of contrasting color changes from white, blue, and yellow in parts. ・Hidasuki (Video 3:20～) This pattern is created by the reaction of the alkaline content of the straw and the iron content of the base material. Summary of Okayama's Bizen Ware Photo：Bizen ware The other name for Bizen Ware "Inbe Yaki" (Imbe Yaki) came from the local place named "Inbe." Now there are many Bizen Ware Pottery kilns and studios with galleries around Inbe Station in Okayama Prefecture, and the Bizen Ware Festival (also called the "Bizen Pottery Festival") held every autumn attracts many pottery fans and tourists from all over Japan. Even today, Okayama Prefecture promotes the history and culture of traditional Japanese crafts through Bizen Ware works. There are everyday products that can be used for everyday living, such as mugs and glasses for beer as well. 【Official Website】Bizen Ware | Traditional Crafts | Japan Traditional Crafts Aoyama Square https://kougeihin.jp/en/craft/0418/

Introducing Hakuba Happo One Snow Resort This video, titled "Hakuba Happo-One Snow Resort PV 2019-2020" (白馬八方尾根スキー場PV2019-2020), was released by "HakubaHappo-one." The Hakuba Happo One Snow Resort, with its magnificent natural setting, is very popular for its superb powder snow. If you're looking to enjoy winter sports in Japan, you should definitely check out Hakuba Happo One Snow Resort. A Closer Look at Hakuba Happo One Snow Resort Source :YouTube screenshot The Hakuba Happo One Snow Resort is an international mountain resort located in Hakuba, Nagano, in Japan's Koshinetsu Region, and is one of the largest single ski resorts in Japan. The Hakuba Happo One Snow Resort is also known for being the venue for the 1998 Winter Olympics in Nagano Prefecture. From the top of the mountain, on a clear day, you can enjoy a magnificent view of Mt. Myoko, Mt. Asama, and the Yatsugatake Mountains of Japan's Northern Alps. At 0:07 in the video, you can also see the mountains tinted with a beautiful morning glow. The ski resort is fully equipped with gondolas and lifts, and offers a comfortable skiing and snowboarding experience on its famously powdery snow. A Skiing Experience at Hakuba Happo One Snow Resort Source :YouTube screenshot Hakuba Happo One Snow Resort offers a variety of courses, including the Sakka Slope, Olympic Course I, and the Riesen Grat Course. Choose the slope that best suits your level and enjoy skiing or snowboarding to your hearts content. Beginners can also try their hand at skiing at the Evergreen International Ski School. Events at Hakuba Happo One Snow Resort Source :YouTube screenshot At Hakuba Happo One Snow Resort, you can look forward to not only snow-related activities but also events. In particular, the torch run introduced at 2:16 in the video is incredibly dynamic. On December 31, there's a Kagami-biraki ceremony, a taiko drum performance, a raffle, and a fireworks display. During winter in the Hakuba area they also celebrate "dondoyaki," a traditional festival that involves a massive bonfire to herald the new year in Japan. There are also parasailing and trekking tours that can be enjoyed in any season, which can be seen at 2:40 in the video. Summary of Hakuba Happo One Snow Resort Source :YouTube screenshot In this article we introduced the popular Hakuba Happo One Snow Resort that was the venue for the 1998 Winter Olympics in Nagano. When visiting Hakuba Happo One Ski Resort, we recommend booking a hotel, planning equipment rentals and lift ticket purchases, and researching transportation access and event information well in advance. There are also popular hot springs and restaurants around the ski resort, so be sure to check them out as well. 【Official Website】HAKUBA HAPPO ONE SNOW RESORT https://www.happo-one.jp/en/ 【Tripadvisor】HAKUBA HAPPO ONE SKI RESORT https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g1120615-d1424752-Reviews-Hakuba_Happoone_Ski_Resort-Hakuba_mura_Kitaazumi_gun_Nagano_Prefecture_Koshinets.html

Video introduction of "Gero Onsen Yunoshimakan", a registered tangible cultural property in Gifu Prefecture, Gero City. This video, titled "[Gero Onsen Yunoshima-kan] A Tangible Cultural Property" (【 下呂温泉 湯之島館 】 登録有形文化財), was created by "Multicopter Operating Drone Aerial photography" (マルチコプターオペレーティング ドローン 空撮). Yunoshimakan is a long-standing ryokan in Gero Onsen, established in 1931. Gero Onsen is one of Japan’s most famous hot springs, and Yunoshimakan is located at the top of a hill overlooking the town of Gero. The building was designated as a Tangible Cultural Property in 1947. In 1949, Yunoshimakan was designated a "Government Registered International Tourist Inn No. 8," by the Japanese government, which certifies that the hotel meets certain standards to ensure that foreign visitors to Japan can stay at the hotel with peace of mind. The ryokan has had the honor of accommodating the previous Emperor Showa in 1949, as well as the former Emperor Akihito in 1977. Gero Onsen's Yunoshimakan is popular on hotel and ryokan review and comparison websites for its excellent hospitality. Enjoy the charm of Gero Onsen's Yunoshimakan's vast 50,000-square-meter grounds in the amazing aerial footage filmed using the latest drone technology. Yunoshimakan: Enjoy a Variety of Deluxe Meals, Such as Hida Beef Cuisine, a Specialty of Gifu Prefecture, at Gero Onsen Source :YouTube screenshot Gero Onsen's Yunoshimakan offers a traditional Japanese-style dinner, where courses are brought to each individual room. Some examples of the menu are Hida beef sirloin steak and river fish dishes, such as ayu (sweetfish) and amago (red-spotted eel) caught in the local Masuda River, all of which are made from locally caught fish and locally raised livestock. They also offer a wide range of alcoholic-beverages, mainly from the Hida region. These sumptuous meals can be seen at 2:00 in the video. Breakfast, where you can sample a variety of Hida specialties, is served in a hall on the 8th floor. >br> A kid’s menu is also available for those traveling as a family. Yunoshimakan: A Traditional Japanese-Style Ryokan at Gero Onsen Source :YouTube screenshot In the Muromachi period (1336-1573), the poet and Buddhist monk Banri Shukyu, referred to Kusatsu, Arima, and Yushima as Japan's three most famous hot springs, and the Confucian philosopher of the Edo Period (1603-1868), Hayashi Razan, also quoted his words, making Gero widely known as one of Japan's most famous hot springs. The origin of the name Yunoshimakan is also derived from the ancient name of the place "Yushima" (lit. Island of Hot Springs). The springs of Gero Onsen are classified as simple alkaline hot springs with a source temperature of 55° Celsius and a pH level of 8.9. Gero Onsen is effective in treating neuralgia, myalgia, stiff shoulders, soreness, chronic digestive disorders, sensitivity to cold, fatigue, and more. The therapeutic water keeps your skin moist, and it's known as "Bijin no Yu" (a beauty spring). In the main building, there are rooms with elaborate designs, including an open-air bath, a Japanese garden, and guest rooms. Amenities are also provided at the hot springs, so there's no need to worry about bringing your own. You can check out the hot springs in the video at 1:27. There are several hot springs in the ryokan. Which one caught your eye? Tourist Spots Near Yunoshimakan at Gero Onsen Source :YouTube screenshot Gero Onsen is surrounded by the mountains, and due to the steepness of the mountains in Hida, it used to be a place for Shugendo (Japanese mountain asceticism) in the Asuka Period. At an elevation of 767m (2,500 ft.), each season offers various scenic views, such as green leaves and beautiful flowers. You can enjoy strolling around the woods and bird-watching on the trekking course or see fish swimming in the streams. Check out the video at 2:12 to see the beautiful scenery of Gero Onsen. Summary of Yunoshimakan at Gero Onsen Travel agencies offer various kinds of tours for Gero Onsen's Yunoshimakan. Be sure to check out the official website to see the prices and plans they offer each season. This video showed you an aerial view of Gero Onsen Yunoshimakan, a historical inn with hot springs offering ultimate relaxation. Step away from your busy city life and take a deep breath in the beautiful natural environment of Hida! ◆Outline of Gero Onsen Yunoshimakan◆ 【Address】645 Yunoshima, Gero City, Gifu 509-2207 【Access】5 minutes car ride from JR Gero station 【Parking】Free parking is available 【Phone number】0576-25-4126 【Official Website】Gero Onsen Yunoshimakan, A Tangible Cultural Property http://www.yunoshimakan.co.jp/english/ 【Tripadvisor】Yunoshimakan https://www.tripadvisor.com/Hotel_Review-g788306-d1075236-Reviews-Yunoshimakan-Gero_Gifu_Prefecture_Tokai_Chubu.html

Video introduction of "Shiromai Senmaida" in Wajima City, Ishikawa Prefecture This video, “Ishikawa Shiroyone Senmaida - 白米千枚田 - 4K Ultra HD”, was created by “TokyoStreetView - Japan The Beautiful.” It shows the exquisite view of the Shiroyone Senmaida Rice Terraces dyed in brilliant shades of green. The rice terraces are located in Wajima City (輪島市, Wajima-shi), of Ishikawa Prefecture. The Shiroyone Senmaida Rice Terraces are located in Shiroyone, Wajima City, Ishikawa Prefecture in the Hokuriku region (北陸地方, Hokuriku chiho) of Japan. The view of the rice terraces changes with the seasons, making it a popular sightseeing area. In this article, we'll introduce the history and appeal of the Shiroyone Senmaida Rice Terraces, as well as information for visitors. The rice terraces are considered the epitome of Japanese agriculture, as well as the definitive landscape of Japan. Enjoy exploring the rice terraces shown in the article. Be sure to follow along with the video as well! The Shiroyone Senmaida Rice Terraces Photo：Ishikawa Shiroyone Senmaida The Shiroyone Senmaida Rice Terraces can be found on Noto Peninsula in Ishikawa Prefecture. The rice terraces are said to have been created nearly 400 years ago. There are around 1,004 paddy fields arranged on the steep slopes, each about 20 squares meters in size and in a variety of shapes. The view of the rice terraces descending into the Sea of Japan can be seen at 0:05 in the video. The Shiroyane Senmaida Rice Terraces are designated not only as a national "Place of Scenic Beauty," but also as one of "Japan's Top 100 Terraced Rice Paddies." In addition, the rice terraces are also a "Globally Important Agricultural Heritage System," known as "Noto's Satoyama and Satoumi." As farming machinery is too large for the paddy fields, the traditional hand-farming method "Nawashiroda" (苗代田) is used. The paddy fields all belong to certain owners who are in charge of their maintenance. Every year, the Shiroyone Senmaida Planting and Harvesting Event is held, with the owners and volunteers working together to plant and harvest rice by hand. Photo：Ishikawa Shiroyone Senmaida As you can see in the video, you can enjoy the summer view of the refreshingly green rice terraces. However, the rice terraces change with the seasons, making it a gorgeous view all throughout the year. In the spring, water soaks the paddy fields for rice planting, causing the terraces to sparkle and reflect the blue sky. In autumn, the rice has grown and the terraces turn a beautiful golden-yellow. During the peak rice-harvesting season, there are even wedding ceremonies held at the rice terraces. In winter, the sight of snow covering the rice terraces is absolutely beautiful, and you can also enjoy the illumination along Aze Street, "Aze no Kirameki" (あぜのきらめき, Aze-no-kirameki). The official mascot "Senren-chan" occasionally participates in events as well. The Shiroyone Senmaida Rice Terraces can be accessed through public transport. The rice terraces are a 5-minute walk from the Shiroyone Senmaida bus station, which is 2 and a half hours by bus from Kanazawa station (金沢駅, Kanazawa-eki) in Ishikawa Prefecture. For visitors travelling by personal or rental car, there is a parking area available at the roadside station "Senmaida Pocket Park." The address is- Ishikawa Prefecture, Wajima City, Shiroyanecho 99-5 (石川県輪島市白米町99-5, Ishikawa-ken Wajima-shi Shiroyane-cho 99-5). Summary of Ishikawa Prefecture’s Shiroyone Senmaida Rice Terraces Photo：Aze no Kirameki illumination In this video, “Ishikawa Shiroyone Senmaida - 白米千枚田 - 4K Ultra HD,” you can enjoy the beautiful view of the rice terraces. The sight of the rice terraces and the sea, dyed red by the setting sun, is breathtaking. Furthermore, at the roadside station “Senmaida Pocket Park,” onigiri made from rice harvested at the rice terraces, as well as various related souvenirs, are also available. In Noto Peninsula, there are many other sightseeing areas such as the Kamogaura Promenade (鴨ヶ浦遊歩道, Kamogaura yuhodo), Makaki no Sato Seiho (間垣の里 西保, Aidagaki-no-sato seiho), Elephant Nose Lookout (ゾウゾウ鼻展望台, Zozo-hana tenboudai), Oketaki Falls (桶滝, Oketaki), as well as Nametaki Falls (男女滝, Nametaki). Of course, you can enjoy fresh seafood as well. If you happen to be visiting Kanazawa City, besides the nearby attractions, why not try making a trip to Noto Peninsula as well? It'll definitely be a trip to remember! 【Tripadvisor】Shiroyone Senmaida Rice Terraces https://www.tripadvisor.jp/Attraction_Review-g1021242-d1384989-Reviews-Shiroyone_Semmaida-Wajima_Ishikawa_Prefecture_Hokuriku_Chubu.html

A Look at the Lively Underground Department Store! This video, released by "ANNnewsCH" is titled "New Year's [Underground Department Store] Bustling With Customers Returning Home for the Holidays!" It's a news video introducing the liveliness of Japan's department stores at the end of 2018. The video, which is crowded with people shopping for end-of-the-year ingredients and gifts for returning home, shows the Daimaru Tokyo store in Chiyoda, Tokyo. Why are so many customers visiting the basement floors of Japan's department stores? Read on to learn the secrets behind their popularity and get some awesome food recommendations! The Basement Level in Japan's Department Stores Photo：Nihonbashi Mitsukoshi Depa-basement (デパ地下, "Depa-chika," short for Department store basement level) refers to the basement floor of a department store where foodstuffs are usually sold. There are many stores in Japan, including the Keio Department Store in Shinjuku, Matsuzakaya in Nagoya, Takashimaya in Kyoto, and Seibu in Ikebukuro, Nihonbashi Mitsukoshi, "Tokyu Food Show" in Tokyu Department, and more. The video shows the department store basement connected to Tokyo Station, which is home to many famous stores. The basement food store is close to the train and bullet train platforms and has a direct connection to the underground parking lot, making it easy to access. In addition, water and gas facilities can be installed at low cost, and the "fountain effect" is said to be one of the merits of the Depa-basement, as having a full range of stores in the basement increases sales upstairs. Delicious Food and Popular Recipes Source :YouTube screenshot The most popular item at the Tokyo Daimaru store's deli corner is the Mero Teriyaki, shown at 0:56 in the video. The "Meat Path" corner, which can be seen at 1:27 in the video, sells a deluxe beef tongue steak bento boxes with beef tenderloin steak from "Gyutanka Nezaki." Other popular items include deli items such as dried bonito and vegetable salads, as well as sweets such as whole cakes, chocolates and macaroons, candy, and alcoholic beverages. In addition to sales by permanent tenants, the basements of department stores also host events such as local product fairs featuring local products from Hokkaido and Okinawa, and ekiben (boxed lunches sold at train stations across Japan), attracting many customers. Summary of Japan's Department Store's Basements Source :YouTube screenshot In this article, we introduced a news video that shows the basement of one of Japan's department stores as it's flooded with customers at the end of the year. There are many tenants in the basement of a department store, and as shown in the video, the store is filled with delicious food. Most of the department stores in Japan are directly connected to train stations, so if you're looking to buy some delicious ingredients, be sure to drop by for a visit! 【Official Website】Daimaru Tokyo store https://www.daimaru.co.jp.e.md.hp.transer.com/tokyo/?_ga=2.195670380.1999862128.1591598074-89102328.1591598074

A Look at the Wild Marten! This video, titled "A Close up of a Wild Marten" shows rare footage of a wild marten chowing down. Marten are small animals similar to stoats, ferrets, and weasels. The animal is often treated as a supernatural species in many parts of Japan. There are legends and folktales about the marten that say it has the ability to shapeshift into a raccoon or a fox, and that the misfortunes that occur in villages are due to the work of the marten. In this article, we'll explore the ecology and characteristics of the marten! The Marten - Types and Habitat Photo：Marten The marten is a carnivorous animal that constitutes the genus Martes in the family Mustelidae. Marten are generally 44-55 cm long with tails 17-23 cm long, and they weigh around 1 kilogram. Most wild marten in Japan are found on Honshu (Japan's main island), but they are also widely distributed in Shikoku and Kyushu. In Tsushima, Kyushu region Nagasaki prefecture, there is an endemic subspecies called the Tsushima marten. The Japanese sable of Hokkaido is said to be a different species than the marten. There are other types of marten around the world, such as the yellow-throated marten, American marten, Japanese sable, and European pine marten. The Characteristics and Ecology of the Japanese Marten Source :YouTube screenshot In the wild, marten live and breed alone, using crevices in rocks and tree hollows as their burrows. Their high pitched "squeaking" is one of their distinctive characteristics. Wild marten are omnivores, feeding on insects, birds, fruits and many other things. They sometimes appear in towns and destroy fields, so they are often treated as vermin. Their fur is reddish brown or dark brown in color, and they have different colored summer and winter coats. Some marten are even known for their incredibly fine fur. The wild marten shown in the video is seen constantly checking its surroundings as it chows down on some cat food. Occasionally it stands up to check its surroundings as well. This can be seen at 0:46 in the video. If you notice, the marten is also missing his front left leg, which may be the reason it's is relying on cat food, as catching its prey may be more difficult. Keeping Marten as Pets Photo：Marten After seeing this cute critter munching on some cat food, you might even think you want to raise one yourself. The breeding of wild marten is not prohibited in Japan, and they can actually be caught and bred with permission. However, due to their aggressive and violent nature, there are few cases of keeping them outside of specialized facilities such as zoos. That being said, it's probably difficult to care for one. Summary of the Japanese Marten In this article, we introduced the ecology of the wild marten. As you can see in the video, you might encounter a wild marten in your backyard in Japan, but they are quite difficult to care for. If you want to see some cute marten up close, we recommend visiting a zoo or animal shelter!

The Traditional Bullfights of Uruma City, Okinawa This video, titled "Okinawa Traditional Culture- Bullfighting Village Uruma City" is a video introducing the traditional Okinawan culture and bullfighting of Uruma City, Okinawa Prefecture. Photo：View of Uruma City, Okinawa Miyagi Island from Sinugudo Banta Okinawa is a tropical island where you can enjoy the feeling of a resort while in Japan. In Uruma City Okinawa, there is a hidden sightseeing spot where you can see powerful bullfights. The powerful atmosphere, comparable to authentic Spanish bullfighting, is strong enough to be felt through the video. What Kind of Spot Is Uruma City's Bullfighting? Source :YouTube screenshot The bullfighting village of Uruma City, Okinawa is a rare spot where you can watch bullfights in Japan. You can see the bullfights at the dome-shaped bullring called the Ishikawa Multipurpose Dome, which was built in 2007. More than 20 bullfights are held annually in Bullfighting Villages, including an event where the whole island participates in bullfighting, gathering the strongest bulls from all over Okinawa. In particular, the "All Island Bullfighting Tournament" held three times a year in spring, summer and fall is a highly anticipated event that attracts more than 4,000 spectators to determine the best bullfight in Okinawa. Okinawan bullfighting, called "Ushiorase", has a long history and has been loved by many islanders since ancient times as a form of rural entertainment. Even if you win the tournament and become a champion, there's no prize, rather, you are fighting for honor. At the Bullfighting Village, you can purchase tickets on the day, so there's no need to worry about purchasing in advance. You can also take a walk and visit the cattle barns (Ushikaraya) in the vicinity. Rules and Highlights of Traditional Culture, Okinawa Bullfighting Source :YouTube screenshot Okinawa's bullfighting is not a style where bulls and bullfighters fight, but a one-on-one fight between cows. A bullfighter, called a "Seko," helps to encourage the fighting spirit of the bulls through a technique called "Yagui." The bullfighting tournament held in Uruma City has three major title matches: a lightweight class of 850 kg or less, a middleweight class of 970 kg or less, and an open weight class. There are also rankings, similar to those of sumo wrestlers. Okinawa bullfights have a variety of techniques, such as "oshi," "kake," "tsuki," "wari," and "haratori." These are different ways in which the bulls ram one another. Upon seeing one of these techniques, the crowd roars with applause and cheers the bulls on. There are various types of horns, such as Togai, Gun, Kabbler, Touchu, Hiller, Beauneue, and Hege. Depending on the style of horns, the bull may excel at attacking or defending. The detailed horn features and bullfighting techniques are introduced at 1:21 in them video. Be sure to check it out. The Appeal of Japanese Bullfighting Source :This article Video Bullfighting village Uruma has a local hero, "Traditional God Ulmer," who livens up the bullfighting culture. A local Okinawan hero program called "Bullfighting Warrior Wide" is also very popular. Introduced at 4:56 in the video, the local hero explains the charms of bullfighting to children. Check out the bullfighting girl's photo book by Okinawan bullfighting photographers. In Uruma City, many people who love bullfighting have spread the appeal of bullfighting in their respective forms. Summary of Bullfighting Village Uruma There are many more places to visit in Okinawa than just Shurijo Castle Park and Churaumi Aquarium. The bullfighting village in Uruma is one of the few bullrings in Japan where you can see the traditional bullfighting culture. In recent years, the number of local fans, tourists, and visitors to Japan has increased, and it has become a new tourist resource for Okinawa. At the "Uruma Festival" held in autumn, you can watch a bullfighting tournament for free. Feel the power of the bullfight in this video! Be sure to go sightseeing in the bullfighting village of Uruma to experience the bullfights, a traditional culture that will make for a unique experience. Be sure to check the bullfighting schedule on the official website. ◆ Ishikawa Multipurpose Dome Bullring Facility Overview ◆ 【Address】 2298-1 Ishikawa, Uruma City, Okinawa Prefecture 【Hours】 Hours vary by event. 【Closures】Irregular holidays (varies by event) 【Access】About 50 minutes from Naha Airport using the Naha Airport Expressway, about 2 minutes from Ishikawa Interchange 【Parking】Available. 130 free parking spaces 【Phone number】Uruma City Tourism Division 098-965-5634

Video introduction of walking from Harajuku to Omotesando, Shibuya-ku, Tokyo “Tokyo Harajuku Omotesando walk - 4K（Tokyo Harajuku Omotesando walk 原宿 表参道散歩 - 4K）” was created by “NIPPON WANDERING TV” and it is a 4K video that actually films walking from Harajuku to Omotesando. Omotesando is the historic approach to the Meiji Shrine (明治神宮,Meiji-Jingu) and it is a 1.1km long main street stretching from the Jingubashi intersection to the Omotesando intersection. It is equivalent to the section from Aoyama Street to the Meiji Shrine intersection (in front of Harajuku Station) on prefectural road 413. There are nice shops, such as luxury brands, fashion brands, cafés, pastry shops and beauty salons along the street. Photo：Illuminations of Omotesando During the Christmas season, the street is decorated with lights and a lot of couples visit for a date. The video starts from Tokyu Plaza, which is located at the metro station in front of Harajuku station (Jingumae, Shibuya-ward, Tokyo), and goes to Omotesando station. At 8:12, it arrives at Omotesando station and walks across the street towards Harajuku station. It finishes by showing the view from the pedestrian bridge at 13:17. The video is 15minutes long, so it feels like you are actually window shopping. Recommended Shops Around Harajuku Station Photo：Colorful crepes Harajuku is known as the city of young people. There are a lot of pastry shops like crepes and pancakes and fashionable clothing shops. The most popular sightseeing spot is Takeshita Street, which is in front of JR Yamanote “Harajuku station.” At Takeshita Street, there are the malls “Harajuku ALTA”, and “MOOOSH SQUISHY Harajuku” which is popular among elementary school students, that sell goods with a unique feel. Also, there are boutiques and hair salons such as, “Harajuku Quest” with a hall, “Laforet Harajuku” and “Owl’s Garden”, which is an owl café that has become popular recently. You can find popular ramen restaurants, burger restaurants and bakeries as well. If you turn from Omotesando towards Shibuya, there are areas called Uraharajuku and Cat Street. The areas are popular because people can enjoy shopping while taking a walk to Shibuya. These areas are close from Harajuku station and can be accessed easily. Recommended Shops Around Omotesando Source :YouTube screenshot Omotesando: The City of Adults There are many calm, luxury brands and galleries in Omotesando, and the large-scale commercial facility “Omotesando Hills” is shown from 2:51 in the video. Next to the modern building, there is a rental gallery that was modeled after Old-Dojunkai apartments. You can enjoy art such as “Gallery Dojunkai” and “Omotesando Rocket.” There is a modern art gallery, the “Watari Museum of Contemporary Art”, if you go towards Gaienmae, and the surrounding area is a quiet residential street. Summary Photo：Omotesando Hills The video shows the beautiful walk from Harajuku to Omotesando in the early morning when there were few people. If you want to know what Omotesando is like, be sure to watch the video. You can use multiple stations such as JR and Tokyo metro to Harajuku and Omotesando. If you're going by car, be sure to use a toll parking lot. Other than shopping and going to cafes, there are many places where you can enjoy lunch and dinner, so you can have fun throughout the whole day. Cherry blossoms can be enjoyed at Aoyama Cemetery, Yoyogi Park and Meiji Shrine as well. In this article, we introduced commercial facilities and popular shops around Harajuku and Omotesando. If you're planning on going to Harajuku or Omotesando, don't forget to use this article as a guide! 【Tripadvisor】Omotesando https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g1066456-d610350-Reviews-Omotesando-Shibuya_Tokyo_Tokyo_Prefecture_Kanto.html

Ayumu Hirano: Aiming for a Top 3 Finish at the Olympics! This video is titled "Ayumu Hirano #3 Skater Skateboarder, and Silver Medalist at Winter Olympics" (平野歩選手がスケボー3位 冬季五輪の銀メダリスト). It was released by "KyodoNews." Ayumu Hirano is a halfpipe snowboarder who has won a silver medal at two consecutive Winter Olympic Games. Ayumu Hirano has been attracting attention since he started his skateboarding quest to take home a medal at the 2020 Tokyo Olympics. The video shows the results of the Japan Open Park competition, which also serves as a selection event for the strengthening candidates, held on March 16, 2019 at the Kugenuma Seaside Park Skate Park in Fujisawa, Kanagawa Prefecture. Kensuke Sasaoka won the men's title at the Japan Open Park, Midori Okamoto won the women's title, and Ayumu Hirano placed third in the men's competition. You can see Ayumu Hirano talking about his passion for skateboarding in an interview in the video. This article introduces Ayumu Hirano and the appeal of skateboarding. What Is a Skateboarding? Photo：Skateboarding Skateboarding is an action sport that involves riding a board with wheels in the front and back. Skateboarding is also called "sukebo"in Japanese. Skateboarding is said to have been created in the 1940's on the west coast of the United States as a way for children to play, and it eventually spread throughout the world between the 1980's an 1990's. Skateboarding competitions include Street, Vert, Freestyle, Slalom, and more. At the Tokyo 2020 Olympics, there will be two types of events- street and vert. Ayumu Hirano will compete in vert. Vert skating involves using half-pipes, quarter-pipes, and bowls (essentially large, empty pools) to gain speed and doing insane aerial tricks that include grabs and flips. Competitors are judged on how many tricks they can do in the allotted time and how difficult their tricks are. Ayumu Hirano is introduced at 0:20 in the video. Who is Ayumu Hirano? Source :YouTube screenshot Ayumu Hirano is Japan's leading snowboarder at 160 cm tall (5'2"), and has won two consecutive medals in the half pipe of the 2014 Sochi Olympics and the 2018 Olympics at Pyeongchang. His unique hairstyle, which can be seen at 1:28 in the video, is also quite popular. His sponsors are Burton, Kinoshita Group, TEAM FALKEN, and more, and he has signed a global ambassador contract with UNIQLO to develop snowboard gear for competitions. Starting skateboarding and snowboarding at the age of four, he is trying to achieve mastery of both sports. Both his father and brother are athletes. In the interview with Ayumu Hirano at 1:28, he talks about his passion for skating and snowboarding and how he wants to train harder so he can challenge the sports to enjoy them even more. Summary of Ayumu Hirano Source :YouTube screenshot The video introduces Ayumu Hirano as he skates around the park, and also features an interview with the talented skater/snowboarder. To qualify for the Japan team for the Tokyo 2020 Olympic Games, you need to be ranked in the top 16 of the Olympic World Skateboarding Ranking as of June 2, 2020, or in the top 3 at the 2020 World Championships. Ayumu Hirano will continue to keep his eyes on the world championships as he aims for a top-3 finish. Be sure to check out Ayumu Hirano at the Olympic games! 【Official Website】Japan Skateboarding Federation http://japanskateboardingfederation.jp/

About the Video on Making Minature Bonsai This video, titled "Mini bonsai made with a cup of tea Easy for beginners How to make a mini bonsai Moss BONSAI Maple," was uploaded by "AS Channel -Bonsai,Mountain,Camera- tree for beginners." The video shows how to make a miniature bonsai in a teacup and the entire production process is easy to understand even for beginners. In this article, we'll go over the steps to making a miniature bonsai alongside the video. First, check out the video to see what kind of miniature bonsai you can make. What is Bonsai? Photo：Bonsai Bonsai is the appreciation of plants that have been carefully shaped to resemble natural scenery. It is characterized by the representation of a large tree or plant in a small pot. Bonsai has been enjoyed in Japan since ancient times, but in recent years, it has become so popular as an interior decoration outside of Japan and the term "Bonsai" is now well known. In bonsai, there are rules on how to trim trees and also set varieties. Here are some of the different types of plants that can be used. 【Shohaku Bonsai】: Conifers, a typical species of bonsai. Their greenery can be enjoyed year-round. 【Hamono Bonsai】: Deciduous trees, like the maple in the video, can be used to enjoy the changing seasons. 【Flowering Bonsai】: Plums, cherries, etc. whose flowers can be enjoyed. 【Fruiting Bonsai】: Bonsai that bear fruit and can be enjoyed in all four seasons. A Simple Video Guide To Teacup Bonsai That Even Beginners Can Try Source :YouTube screenshot 1. Since we'll be using a teacup as a pot, we'll start by making a hole in the bottom of the teacup for water drainage and four grooves in the base for air flow. Use an electric drill to make a hole in the teacup, being careful not to break it, and then use a diamond file to make grooves. This can be seen from 0:07 in the video. 2. Place a net or mesh at the bottom of the teacup. (Video 5:07~) 3. Put the large pieces of soil left over from sifting akadama soil into the bottom of the teacup. (Video 5:19~) 4. Next, make a soil mixture of 3 mulch to 7 akadama soil. (Video 6:34~) 5. Gently dig out the maple to be planted, being careful not to break the roots, and soak it in a vitalizer for about an hour. (Video 7:14~) 6. Hold the maple with one hand and add soil to stabilize it. (Video 9:12～) 7. Spread moss on the surface of the soil. (Video 11:45～) Raising Your Miniature Bonsai Maple Source :YouTube screenshot The best place for miniature bonsai is indoors in the sun. However, maple trees are sensitive to strong sunlight, so keep them in a semi-shaded area. Also, place them in a place where they will not be exposed to the wind of an air conditioner. Be sure to water generously when the moss on the surface is dry. Water your plants about once a day in spring and winter, three times a day in summer (morning, afternoon, and evening), and once or twice a day in autumn. Summary of Making Teacup Bonsai Source :YouTube screenshot The video gives a detailed introduction on how to make teacup bonsai, so be sure to check it out if you still haven’t yet. Stylish miniature bonsai can also be purchased online, so if you don't have the time to make one you can always purchase a pre-made bonsai. Consider incorporating miniature bonsai into your interior design to give your home a hint of Japanese culture and enjoy the fun of growing them!