The Japanese Dormouse This video, titled "Chino Legacy - A Chino Legacy to Leave to the Future - #16 'Japanese Dormouse'" (茅野レガシー～未来に残したい茅野遺産～#16「ヤマネ」), introduces the cute Japanese dormouse, an endemic species of Japan designated a nationally protected species. The Japanese dormouse is a rodent found in Yatsugatake, which straddle Yamanashi and Nagano prefectures, as well as in low mountains and subalpine areas throughout Japan. During hibernation, the Japanese dormouse crawls into private warehouses and cottages to curl up and take shelter. so there is a possibility of encountering them unexpectedly. About the Japanese Dormouse Source :YouTube screenshot The Japanese dormouse is a small mammal that belongs to the order Rodentia along with squirrels and other rodents, and is of the family Gliridae, and Glirinae genus. As you can see from 0:10 in the video, it has a cute appearance with its round eyes and soft fur. Because it's designated as a nationally protected species, it is forbidden to catch them or keep them as pets. They are 6 to 8 centimeters long, with black vertical stripes along their backs and a bushy tail. They are omnivorous, feeding on insects and fruits. They are often found running around the forest in preparation for winter. As you can see from 1:19 in the video, they nest in tree trunks and cracks in rocks and can race up trees using their sharp claws. It is a very agile animal that can hang on thin branches and jump from branch to branch. They are nocturnal creatures that live in trees, so you won’t encounter them often; however, during winter, you may see them curled up on the ground hibernating. They are also called "Ball Mice" or "Ice Mice" based on their curled up appearance. A hibernating Japanese dormouse sleeps so peacefully that even if you rolled them around, they would not wake up. You can see a curled-up Japanese dormouse hibernating at 2:07 in the video. In spring, they return to their natural habitat in the mountains. The Japanese Dormouse - A "Living Fossil" Photo：Excavating fossils Fossils of Japanese dormice have been excavated from the strata of Europe and Japan from 50 million and 20 million years ago, respectively. In other words, it is believed that the Japanese dormouse has existed on Earth since about 50 million years ago, after the extinction of the dinosaurs. This would have been during the Cenozoic Era, a time when ammonites and marine reptiles became extinct, and mammals and birds prospered. This of course means that they existed long before humans came to be. Because the Japanese dormouse has not changed in ecology or form since these ancient times, it is referred to as a living fossil. After the advent of mankind, the Japanese dormouse was recorded as a delicacy eaten by noblemen in Roman times. They would put Japanese dormice in vases and fatten them up with nuts and then cook them. They were eaten on a daily basis as appetizers or desserts. The Japanese Dormouse as a Pet Photo：Japanese Dormouse Due to the Japanese dormouse being designated as a nationally protected species, it is not allowed to have them as pets in Japan. However, you will see types of dormice from Europe or Asia in pet shops. When keeping them as pets, having a nesting box, drinking water, bedding materials, and a running wheel should suffice. When they begin hibernation, they sleep for half of the year, earning them the name "Sleeping Mice"; be sure to arrange their living quarters so you can see them sleeping! When they wake up from hibernation, it's mating season and they attract females with high-pitched calls. If you keep them as a pair, be aware that breeding occurs during this period. Summary of the Living Fossil - The Japanese Dormouse Source :YouTube screenshot Did you enjoy learning about the cute Japanese dormouse? We hope you were able to learn more about the biology of the Japanese dormouse, a once semi-endangered species and protected species in Japan. If you haven't yet, be sure to check out the video to see footage of this cute critter!

Introducing the Prayer "Okagura" of Ise Shrine in Mie Prefecture! This is a video produced by "Ise Shrine Official Channel (ISE-JINGU)" called "[Ise Shrine] Shrine Devotional Prayer Okagura ISE-JINGU" (【伊勢神宮】神宮のご祈祷　御神楽　ISE-JINGU). Ise Shrine is a shrine with a long history that has been worshipped in Japan since the time of mythology. The god of the Imperial Grand Shrine (the inner shrine), is Amaterasu Omikami, and the god of Toyokami Grand Shrine (the outer shrine), is Toyouke Omikami. This charming shrine with plenty of nature is located just past Uji Bridge, the entrance to the inner shrine, and is affectionately called "Oise-san" by tourists. Please enjoy the prayer of Ise Shrine, as it's not something you get to see every day. The Prayer "Okagura" at Ise Shrine, Mie Prefecture Photo：Miko with Kagura bells Kagura, dedicated at the Kagura Hall of Ise Shrine, is a ceremony of exorcism in which sacred sake is served before the gods. The ritual prayer, introduced at 0:35 in the video, is one of the most important rituals of Shinto. After the ritual prayer, there is a dance performance (0:53) that shows Yamato-mai, and from 1:08 a long ceremonial dance by the Prince of Lanling. After the Kagura, worshippers pray, as seen at 1:40 in the video Ise Shrine, Mie Prefecture - A Historic Tourist Attraction With Tons of Highlights Photo：Ise Shrine Many tourists visit Ise City, Mie Prefecture to visit Ise Shrine. Don't forget your shuin when you visit! After worship, it's recommended that you purchase a good luck talisman. At Ise Shrine, there are also festivals, such as the Kagura Festival, the Shin-an Festival, and the Kamigyo Festival. We definitely recommend checking these out. On the approach to the outer shrine of Ise Shrine, there's "Houonkan (1F Senokuniya, Syoujirou / 2F Magatama Tei)," "mirepoix," "French cuisine Bon Vivant," "Mitsuhashi Ponju," "Ise Kikuichi," "Akafuku Gekumae Special Shops” and other places where you can enjoy lunch and local gourmet! You can enjoy Japanese sweets such as Akafuku mochi and dumplings, and even eat around. After visiting the geku, go to the naiku where Amaterasu Omikami, the guardian deity of the Japanese people who reigns over the other the eight million gods, is enshrined. "Chōzuya," "Ujibashi," "Isuzu-gawa Mitarashi," "Takimaturinokami," "Goshogu," and "Kazahino minomiya," are full of attractions! There are hotels and inns such as "Toba International Hotel", "Shima Kanko Hotel Bay Suite" and "Ikadaso," so you can enjoy your trip to Ise-Shima even if you're staying overnight. Be sure to enjoy the "profit spot" and the power spot as well. Sightseeing Around Ise Shrine Photo：Okage Yokocho lanterns The area around Ise Jingu is also home to other attractions such as Tagamiya Shrine, Sarutahiko Shrine and Sarume Shrine, which are separate shrines on the grounds. If you have the chance, you should also check out the Imperial Grand Shrine, Ara Matsuri Shrine, Koyasu Shrine, Futami Okitama Shrine, and Meotoiwa in the Ise-Shima area. There are souvenir shops and delicious eateries in Okageyokocho and Oharai town, so be sure to keep your eyes peeled. Summary of Ise Shrine in Mie Prefecture In 2013, Shikinen Sengu was held at Ise Shrine in Mie Prefecture. This is the largest festival at Ise Jingu, where the Great God is relocated to the shrine pavilion, which is rebuilt once every 20 years. In May 2016, key figures from various countries gathered to hold the "G7 Summit," a meeting to discuss global economic and international issues, In Ise City. Ise Shrine is a very popular tourist spot in Japan, and we highly recommend visiting it. If you visit at the right time, you may be able to see the elegant prayers shown in the video, or see the Kagura exorcism. ◆Ise Shrine Introduction of facility outline◆ 【Address】1 Ujikancho, Ise City, Mie 516-0023 【Access】Geku is a 5-minute walk from Ise-shi Station, Naiku is a 30-minute walk from Isuzugawa Station 【Hours】5: 00 - 18: 00 【Closures】None 【Parking】Available 【Telephone No】0596-24-1111 【Entrance fee】Free 【Official Website】Ise Shrine https://www.isejingu.or.jp/en/index.html 【Official Website】Ise City Tourism Association https://ise-kanko.jp/main/english/ 【Tripadvisor】Ise City https://www.tripadvisor.com/Tourism-g303159-Ise_Mie_Prefecture_Tokai_Chubu-Vacations.html

Ayatori! This video was created by "Ayatori Dekita!" Fun Lessons From Baaba!" The title of the video is "[Ayatori Shapes] Cradle, Rice Field, Diamond, a Japanese Hand Drum, a Ship, and a Rope Bridge. Slightly Difficult Techniques of Ayatori for Adults [Audio Commentary] String Figures / Baaba's Ayatori" (あやとりできた! ばぁばが楽しく教えるよ」が制作した『【あやとり連続技】ゆりかご・田んぼ・川・ダイヤモンド・つづみ・船・つり橋　ちょっと難しい変身あやとり　大人向け【音声解説あり】String figures / ばぁばのあやとり). The video explains advanced level Ayatori for adults, in a slow, easy-to-understand format. Be sure to check it out! What is Ayatori? Photo：Ayatori Ayatori is a game where you make different shapes with a string looped around your fingers. It's basically the same as cat's cradle, but the shapes/names are different due to cultural differences. Ayatori is also called "Itodori" and "Chidori," in different regions of Japan. It's a very popular game played by children all over the world. It is said to have a great effect on children's intellectual development because of the use of hands and fingers and using one's imagination to think of shapes and understand how to manipulate the string. Ayatori can be played with multiple players by taking turns and transforming the string into different shapes, or it can be played solo, as shown in the video. There are also people who do magic tricks that involve ayatori. The origin and the history of ayatori is unknown, but there is a theory that it started around the Heian period (794-1185) in Japan. Unfortunately there is no proof to back this theory. Basic Techniques and How to Play Ayatori Source :YouTube screenshot This video gives an easy to understand commentary on how to make different shapes for solo play ayatori. The video starts with a single string sitting in a loop on a table. From there, Baaba teaches viewers how to hold the string, and then how to make a cradle (3:04), a rice field (5:21), a river (6:09), a diamond (9:47), a Japanese hand drum (12:46), a ship (13:20), and finally a rope bridge (14:03). This video also gives tips on how to hold the string on your fingers and how to remove it from your fingers. There are a lot of cool techniques you can learn by watching it. Some other techniques, not shown in the video, include "rubber," broom, ladders, turtles, bridges, stars, and even Tokyo tower! Rubber and broom are relatively easy to make, so these are perfect for beginners. Overview of Ayatori Photo：A parent and child playing Ayatori Ayatori is a fun game that can be enjoyed with just a single piece of string! Be sure to watch the video to learn about some cool shapes that you can practice. It's also great for kids, so if you have some little one's of your own, be sure to try it together!

A Look at Tajimi City, Gifu The video "【Tajimi City PR video】 I love Tajimi City!" (【多治見市PR動画】たじみしがすき。), made by Ponycanyon, introduces many attractive places to visit in Tajimi city. Not only is it packed with traditional Japanese culture and food, but it's also a great place to live and raise a family. Check out the video and see the beauty of Tajimi! In this article, a child shows us around the attractions of Tajimi city in Gifu. Let’s see what Tajimi city is like for kids. About Tajimi city in Gifu Photo：Tajimi city Tajimi city in Gifu prefecture is well known for having the hottest weather in Japan. There are a lot of places to go sightseeing where you can absorb historic backgrounds and enjoy the outdoors. As such, there are many photogenic sites for Instagram as well. As you can see in the video, Tajimi city is a nice place to live. You can get to JR Tajimi station by express train from Nagoya. It takes only about 20 minutes, so it's great if you want to go shopping too! See more about transportation at 0:36 in the video. Raising children is easy thanks to the support from city hall and the large municipal hospital. At 2:00 the video mentions the average ambulance arrival time is about 7.3 minutes (compared to the average 8.5 minutes of Japan). You can bring your kids to Pokapoka Plaza which has a playground inside, and eat delicious eel and make pottery. You can see in the video at 0:49. Look how excited her is to meet “Unagappa,” the cute mascot of Tajimi. In this video, there's tons of things to see in Tajimi city! Take a look at 1:36 in the video. Here you can see the average prices of residential land. It mentions that the city costs a fifth of what land in Nagoya costs, and it's so close to Nagoya as well. There are some nice places such as the Valor Cultural Hall (Tajimi city cultural hall), the Cultural Properties Protection Center and the Cafe Gallery Momogusa. Experience Japanese Culture in Tajimi City, Gifu! Source :YouTube screenshot Tajimi city is famous for Japanese handicrafts such as Mino Pottery( 美濃焼, Minoyaki). Mino yaki, introduced in the video at 2:04, is pottery made in the Tono area of Gifu. This beautiful and easy to use pottery attracts attention around the world. You can see it at the Mino Pottery Museum and you can also experience making it at the Voice Workshop at Azuchi Momoyama Pottery Park. Also mentioned in the video at 1:24 is Tajimi Honmachi Oribe Street. This 400 meters long street has many pottery shops and galleries. Here you can see the Minoyaki Archive Library and the History Museum. There is also Ichinokura Oribe Street where you can enjoy locally made Japanese sake. Sightseeing Information for Tajimi City, Gifu Photo：Eiho-ji Temple on Mt.Kokei There are a lot of attractions to see in Tajimi city, Gifu. If you want to enjoy beautiful works of art, we recommend the Mosaic Tile Museum, the Ceramic Park MINO, the Ikeda Cho Folk Museum, the Museum of Modern Ceramic Art and the Ichinokura Sakazuki Museum. If you like historic places, how about Eiho-ji Temple (永保寺, Eihoji) on Mt.Kokei (虎渓山, Kokeizan), the Society of the Divine Word, the Tajimi Monastery, the Nishiura Archive (Sekishin Sanzenkura) or the Oribe Pottery House? If you want to enjoy some natural scenery, you can go to the Nishiura Garden, the Path of Tosai or the Kasahara Shiomi Forest Park. There are many kinds of festivals and events in Tajimi city such as the Tajimi Festival, the Shuudoin (monastery) Wine Festival, the Michisakari Thanksgiving, the Tajimirukomichi, the Nigiwaiichi [Station Mall], Ogibou No Te (a historical reenactment), the Kasahara Shinmeigu (Kasahara shrine) Autumn Festival, the Akibasama (Akiba shrine), the Tajimi City Fireworks Festival, the Tajimi Pottery Festival, the Ichinokura Touso Festival (Pottery festival), the Tajimi Pottery Festival at Nishi Dori, the Gion Festival, the Oribe Kichakai, the Mino Folk Art Pottery Festival, the Tajimi Chawan (Ricebowl) Festival, the Ichinokura Tou no Sato Festival (Pottery), the Zohogama Tsubaki Exibition, the Honmachi Oribe Street Hina Festival, the International Pottery Festival, the Tajimi Station Kita Beer Garden, the Natsu No Yo Festival (Summer night festival), the Deai Matsuri (Festival of Encounters) and the Minoyaki Festival. Summary of Tajimi City, Gifu Tajimi city has a lot of attractive things to do with its delicious food, traditional culture, and beautiful nature. As shown in the video, not only is it a good place to live, it’s also great for sightseeing as well. Be sure to check out the video and see the wonders of Tajimi city. If you like what you see, consider giving it a visit yourself! 【Official Website】Tajimi City Hall https://www.city.tajimi.lg.jp/ 【Tripadvisor】Tajimi City https://www.tripadvisor.com/Tourism-g1019694-Tajimi_Gifu_Prefecture_Tokai_Chubu-Vacations.html

An Introduction to the Globally Popular Art, "Bonsai" This video, titled "Saitama Omiya Bonsai Museum - 大宮盆栽美術館 - 4K Ultra HD." It was uploaded by TokyoStreetView - Japan The Beautiful. Bonsai is a famous traditional art that originated in Japan. It is a symbol of Japanese culture and art, and nowadays the word "Bonsai" is known globally. Many Bonsai fans from around the world visit the Omiya Bonsai Art Museum in Saitama City, Saitama Prefecture in Japan's Kanto region to enjoy the many beautiful bonsai they have on display there. This video shows some of the globally famous Bonsai, including Seiryu (青龍) exhibited at the Omiya Bonsai Art Museum. Enjoy the beauty of Bonsai through the video. Bonsai has been loved by many for a long time as a traditional Japanese culture. The Omiya Bonsai Art Museum in Saitama City Photo：Enjoying bonsai The Omiya Bonsai Art Museum in Saitama City, Saitama Prefecture was opened in 2010. With the Bonsai craze in recent years, it is extremely popular among foreign tourists. This is a top tourist spot, where foreigners can fully immerse themselves in Japanese culture. There are approximately 60 Bonsai trees on display regularly. One of the reasons the Omiya Bonsai Art Museum in Saitama Prefecture is so popular is its reasonable admission fee; It costs 300 yen per person (as of October 2019). Access to the museum is also very good. It's just a 5 minute-walk from Toro Station via the JR Utsunomiya Line. There is also a large car park, too. There are popular cafes and eateries famous for delicious lunches near the Omiya Bonsai Art Museum in Saitama. Various, interesting festivals and events, including workshops, are held at these venues frequently. They are great tourist attractions on their own, too. To enjoy it fully, you'll need to check out hotels and traffic information in advance. Facilities of the Omiya Bonsai Art Museum, Saitama The Omiya Bonsai Art Museum in Saitama, established for the purpose of promoting bonsai culture, has set up photography corners indoors and outdoors, where you can take pictures, to meet the needs of bonsai fans. You can also check out historical documents and folklore records with which you can learn about the history of how Bonsai came to be. There are many references on Bonsai pots (盆器, Bonki) and water stones (水石, Suiseki), as well as paintings, such as Ukiyoe (浮世絵) that have a connection with Bonsai. The regular exhibition includes Japan’s first-class Bonsai plants, with varieties such as Goyo Matsu (五葉松, Japanese white pine), Aka Matsu (赤松, Japanese red pine), Ezo Matsu (蝦夷松, Ezo spruce), Shinpaku (真柏, Chinese juniper) and Kuro Matsu (黒松, Japanese black pine), as shown in the video. To our delight, various other exhibitions are also held there. The indoor area is shown from 0:04, while the outdoor area is shown from 3:02 in the video. Facilities at the Omiya Bonsai Art Museum include the Museum Shop, where you can buy souvenir and Bonsai goods, the Information Corner, Kisetsuno Hitohachi, the Collection Gallery, Zashiki Kazari, the Special Exhibition Room, the Seminar Room, and the Bonsai Terrace . The museum provides audio guides in 4 languages (Japanese, English, Chinese and Korean) to accommodate foreign visitors. Just a short walk from the Omiya Bonsai Art Museum, there's the Omiya Bonsai Village (大宮盆栽村, Omiya Bonsai Mura) which is famous as a bonsai Mecca, with various Bonsai gardens. Be sure to visit the village as well when stopping by the Omiya Bonsai Art Museum. Purchasing Bonsai Online? Photo：Bonsai Bonsai can become a piece of fine art with beautifully shaped body and branches by looking after it using methods such as Nehari, Miki, Tachiagari, Edaburi and Ha. Using various types of trees such as Japanese Maples, Cedar, and Tsuyama Cypress,' it takes the skills of a Bonsai master to create a piece that can pull you into the world of serene nature. This is why Bonsai is seen as a traditional art with a long history and is a sophisticated hobby. At the Omiya Bonsai Art Museum in Saitama, there are exhibits that teach beginners how to create and enjoy Bonsai. Bonsai plants and tools necessary to create Bonsai can be purchased at online shops such as Amazon and Rakuten. Summary of the Omiya Bonsai Art Museum in Saitama City In Bonsai, you artificially create a world of nature by giving a tree a life in a Bonsai pot. This can be seen in the video as well. If you are impressed by the beautiful Bonsai after in the video, be sure to visit the Omiya Bonsai Art Museum in Saitama Prefecture. The Director Takehiko Suga will welcome you. You'll be fascinated even more by the beautiful world of Bonsai after seeing the real thing. ◆Omiya Bonsai Art Museum in Saitama City◆ 【Address】2-24-3 Toro-machi, Kita-ku, Saitama City, Saitama Prefecture 〒331-0804 【Access】5 minute walk from Toro Station on the JR Utsunomiya Line 【Admission Fee】 310 Yen per person (※as of November 2019) 【Hours】March - October, 9AM - 4:30PM, November～February 9AM-4PM 【Closures】Thursdays (If it is a national holiday, the museum will be open) and before and after New Year 【Parking】39 cars (free up to 2 hours), 3 coach buses (880 Yen), 2 disabled spaces (free) 【Telephone No.】048-780-2091 【Official Website】Omiya Bonsai Art Museum in Saitama City https://www.bonsai-art-museum.jp/en/

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

Introducing the Traditional Japanese Theater, "Noh" I reckon that many international tourists who visit Japan are interested in experiencing a traditional Japanese performing art. If you're one of those people, I recommend catching a Noh performance that integrates a number of performance elements handed down over the centuries. "ANA Global Channel" aired the promotional video "NOH- Yaemon Yamashita／Interview - IS JAPAN COOL? " (NOH - Yaemon Yamashina／Interview - IS JAPAN COOL? DOU（能 - 山階 彌右衛門), (English subbed) featuring Noh actor, Yaemon Yamashita. The video contains his interview where he talks about the history and charms of Noh as well as his actual performance of "Aoi no ue" from 9:29 which is even more eloquent than he describes. Noh: Origins Yamashita talks about the history of Noh from 0:34. The classical Japanese performance art, Noh was formalized into the present-day's form (known as Kanzeryu) during the Muromachi period (1336-1573) by Kan'ami and his son Zeami. Noh involves chants, drama, dance, basic movement patterns (known as Kata) or narration (known as Katari) and actors convey the emotions of characters using the entire ensemble. The audience is increasingly captivated by the effects. According to Yamashita, Noh can be compared to western theater, such as opera or musicals, that is loved around the world. Noh was designated as an Important Intangible Cultural Property in 1957, and as a UNESCO intangible Cultural Heritage in 2001. Noh is often confused with Kabuki outside of Japan. While Kabuki performances are attended by the general public, Noh is a refined performance art meant for the upper classes and was later made the official ceremonial art by the shogunate. Noh is a comprehensive art form that involves dance, music and drama, just like western theater, but what makes it unique is that it is based on a stylization of the external expressions. The Charms of Noh Photo：Noh Yamashita speaks about the Noh performance from 1:13. On a mysterious stage known as Noh Butai, a story unfolds through the performances of Shite (the leading character) and Waki (the supporting actor), where plots are usually drawn from legend, history, and literature. Shite is also a main organizer of the Noh performance, and furthermore, a prop maker. The instrumentalists (known as hayashi) play the four Japanese instruments used in Noh theatre: transverse flute, hip drum, the shoulder-drum, and the stick-drum. Kyogen is a comedy piece performed at intervals between the main Noh performance. Thus, a Noh program usually includes both Noh and Kyogen, and offers 2 types of entertainment. Shite wears a mask as seen in the video from 3:14. The masks tell the audience what kind of character he portrays, such as a divine, old man, old woman, villain, or demon. Although there are a few roles Shite plays without wearing a mask, such as Musashibo Benkei (a Japanese warrior monk from the 12th century), Yamashita says that an actor plays the part without any facial expression as to convey emotion through only movements and body language (3:42~). The masks cover an actor's facial expression, but this stimulates the imagination of the audience. Plot development and the accompanied music induces a variety of emotions and creates an illusion of reality. Another interesting aspect of Noh is that each viewer has their own understanding of the scenes being portrayed. From 5:13, Yamashita says that an essential part of Noh performances is to maintain a stable posture, known as "Kamae," while using the basic Hakobi step where the feet are slid across the floor one after another without lifting them. In Noh performance, the beauty must lie in the visible elements (movement, body language or posture) rather than on the inside of actors, and this external beauty is what brings out the internal beauty. - This is the Noh aesthetic handed down for generations. Noh Is Performed at Theaters Called "Nohgakudo" Noh is typically performed at theaters called "Nohgakudo." There are plenty of renowned Noh theaters including Kongo-Nohgakudo in Kyoto, National Nohgakudo and Hohsho Nohgakudo in Tokyo, and Nagoya Nohgakudo in Nagoya. The visit will afford you the opportunity to experience Noh performance. Source :YouTube screenshot Summary of Noh Theatre The video captures Yaemon Yamashita's performance of "Aoi no ue" from 9:29, after his interview. The video deepens our understanding and gives the performance depth. It's worth watching to get an idea about the history and aesthetics of Noh. It leads us into the profound beauty of the art form. If you want to experience a Noh performance, "Nohgaku Dairengin" is a great program to check out. It allows beginners to take a 4-month training of "Takasago" and perform it on stage. If you want to know more about Noh, check the lineup of items published from Nohgaku Shorin, a publishing house specialized in Noh. It also stocks the audiovisual materials such as CDs, DVDs and cassette tapes that non-Japanese speakers can enjoy, as well as a variety of Noh props and stationary goods.

Introducing Edo Castle! This video, titled “Edo Castle / Tokyo Imperial Palace in 1871 江戸城,” was produced by “LIT esperan.” It introduces Edo Castle through old photography. Edo Castle is said to be the “Number One” castle in Japan due to its size, the height of its castle tower, and the large dimensions of the palace. This article introduces the history of, and tourist spots around, Edo Castle ruins. Be sure to follow along with the video! Edo Castle existed until the Meiji Era (1868-1912), and so there are many photographs of it that still exist to this day. Before we go any further, take a second to look at the once magnificent appearance of Edo Castle in the video. Edo Castle: History Source :YouTube screenshot Edo Castle was a hirayama-style castle, built by Ota Dokan, a retainer of the Ogigayatsu Uesugi family, in 1457. Years later, Toyotomi Hideyoshi surrendered the castle, and during the Edo period (1603-1868), Tokugawa Ieyasu added to and renovated it. As a result, it became the largest castle in Japan. After it was used as the government center of the Tokugawa shogunate, it was handed over to the new Meiji era government in the 1st year of the Meiji Era (1868), and became the imperial palace in the 2nd year of the Meiji Era. This was referred to as “The Surrender of Edo Castle,” and “The Bloodless Fall of Edo.” In 1888, it became the Imperial Palace Castle, and in 1948 it was renamed as to "Tokyo Imperial Palace." Today, a section of the ruins of Edo Castle is still in use as the residence of the Emperor. The Places Related to Edo Castle in the Video Photo：Fujimi-yagura At the beginning of the video, a blue sky appears in the middle of Tokyo's skyscrapers. This is the center of the castle called the inner compound, and outside of that is the outer compound. You can see Asakusa Honganji, Sensoji Temple, Sakuradamon, Toranomon, Fujimi-yagura Ruins, Suidobashi, Shin-O'hashi, Sumida River, Hibiyamon, Asakusabashimon, Honmaru Otemon, Sakashita Gate, and Nishinomaru Nijyubashi from 0:38 in the video. These are popular spots that are well known even in the present day and are introduced through old photographs in the video. During the middle of the video, the last Tokugawa Shogun, Keiki Tokugawa can be seen from 2:05 and from 1:33, old maps showing the vicinity of Edo Castle, as well as blueprints of the castle tower, are also shown. Visiting Edo Castle Photo：Around Edo Castle Edo Castle is located in Tokyo's Chiyoda Ward and is about a 5-minute walk from JR Tokyo Station and Otemachi Station on the Tokyo Metro and Toei Subway lines. Parts of the Honmaru/Ninomaru/Sannomaru of Edo Castle are open to the public as the East Gardens of the Imperial Palace. Kitanomaru, is now Kitanomaru Park, and many people come here as tourists or joggers. The castle tower has been rebuilt 3 times, however, it was burned down and the plans for rebuilding it have stopped after the rebuilding of the tenshudai (the stone base). The remaining Edo Castle tenshudai can be seen even in the present day. When you visit the Imperial Palace, be sure to check out the O-bansho near the palace gates, the magnificent stone walls, the ruins of Matsu corridor, located in the inner palace, famous for its depiction in the story Chusingura. We also recommend going to see the inner palace, the ruins of Wadakuramon, the Sekishitsu (stone burial chamber), and the ruins of Chujakumon. There is also a guided tour to see the Imperial palace, so try to participate in this if you can. Summary of Edo Castle Photo：Edo Castle This video, “Edo Castle / Tokyo Imperial Palace in 1871 江戸城,” introduces many photos of Edo Castle from the beginning of the Meiji Era. You can also visit the Imperial Palace by submitting an application to the Imperial Household Agency. For more information, please visit the Imperial Household Agency's website. Edo Castle boasts the largest castle in Japan in terms of size, construction period, and height of the castle tower. Hopefully after reading this article introducing the history and tourist attractions of Edo Castle, we've piqued your interest in the historical location. 【Tripadvisor】The East Gardens of the Imperial Palace（Edo Castle Ruins） https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g1066443-d320625-Reviews-The_East_Gardens_of_the_Imperial_Palace_Edo_Castle_Ruin-Chiyoda_Tokyo_Tokyo_Prefe.html

Miyakojima's Paantu! This video is titled "Miyakojima Shimajiri Paantu 2018 Unesco World Cultural Heritage." (宮古島・島尻パーントゥ2018　UNESCO World cultural heritage). It introduces the traditional festival in Miyakojima, Okinawa, "Paantu." During the festival, supernatural gods called Paantu wear masks and chase out evils to bring luck to the villagers. The traditional event is held in two locations in Miyakojima: the Hirano Shimajiri region and the Ueno Nohara region. Each location has its differences. In 1982, both events were selected as Intangible folk cultural properties, and in 1993, they were designated Important Intangible Folk Cultural Assets. "Raihojin," (ritual visits of deities in masks and costumes) was added to UNESCO’s intangible folk cultural asset list in 2018. Paantu and Satupunaha Source :YouTube screenshot According to the local history records, the origin of the word "Paantu" is a combination of two words "Paan"(to eat) and "Pitu" (people). It has the meaning of a ghost or a demon. "Satupunaha" (wishes for home) of Shimajiri, Miyakojima takes place three times a year. Paantu is an event that takes place at the third event and it is called Paantu Satupunaha or Paantu Punaha. It was originally held on the "lucky day" (an unspecified day of the month) of the ninth month of the lunar calendar, but now it is held in October. Paantu’s appearance is similar to Namahage, another spiritual creature in Japan. Local young adult men are chosen to become Paantu and there are three roles available (Uya, Naka and Fufa). Check out the video at 0:06 to see what the Paantu look like. The three chosen men wear ivy grass called "Shionokikazura" and apply mud from the bottom of a well called "Nmarigah," which The Nmarigah is located in the vicinity of Miyajima Elementary School, and the mud is smeared on people and houses in the pantu. Children cry and scream and the smell of the mud is so bad that it cannot be removed for several days. You can see the children screaming and crying at 0:14, and teenagers running away at 1:21. Paantu even smear mud on the police car at 1:27. Playing Tag With the Gods Source :YouTube screenshot Local people explain that this event is like playing tag with the gods. The event is loved by the local people, and it's considered lucky to get muddy, as the mud will keep bad spirits away thank to its horrible smell. At first glance, it looks scary, as you see the whole village running away, but when you see the smiling faces of the villagers after being covered with mud, you'll understand the beauty of the festival. In recent years, the festival has been in danger of being cancelled due to complaints of being dirtied and problems with the festival causing trouble. Paantu would smear mud on everyone, including tourists, elderly people, police, and little children. However, the event is very important for the local people as it helps to drive out demons and cleanse the island of bad luck. Therefore, this event still continues and only people who can accept this event should participate this event. Source :YouTube screenshot Please be aware that if you are visiting Shimajiri, Miyakojima during the festival, you WILL get muddy. If you would like to know more about this event, you can also visit the Miyakojima City Museum. At this facility, you can learn about the history of Paantu and Miyakojima. You can also wear Paantu masks and take pictures. The mask is said to have washed ashore on the coast of Miyakojima Island more than a hundred years ago, wrapped in kuba leaves. Summary of Paantu Source :YouTube screenshot Are you looking forward to Paantu? The unique culture of Miyakojima, a remote island, brings many visitors to the island every year. Special goods and T-shirts are also sold, and they help stimulate the local economy, so if you're looking for souvenirs to commemorate your trip, don't miss out on them! Bisit Shimajiri, Miyakojima and have a fun-filled experience in the mud! 【Tripadvisor】City of Miyakojima https://www.tripadvisor.com/Tourism-g680765-Miyakojima_Okinawa_Prefecture-Vacations.html

The Beautiful Town of Takaharu, in Miyazaki Prefecture This promotional video titled "Takaharu" (高原町), was created by Miyazaki Prefecture’s Town and Village Association in order to promote various festivals, cultural experiences, tourist attractions and the natural scenery found in Takaharu, a town in south-west Miyazaki prefecture. You can reach Takaharu in about 1 hour by car from either Kagoshima or Miyazaki airport. It's a town nestled in the middle of the Kirishima mountain range (霧島連峰, kirishimarenpou), surrounded by nature. In 2006, Takaharu joined the official list of the most beautiful villages in Japan. It is also home to the Kirishima National Park (霧島錦江湾国立公園, kirishima kinkouwan kokuritsukouen), the first national park in Japan, and Kirishima Geopark, which is a popular destination for tourists. This short video introduces recommended cultural and sightseeing spots in Takaharu. We hope you enjoy it! About the Japan Hasshouchi Festival (Festival of the Birthplace of Japan) Source :YouTube screenshot The Japan Hasshouchi festival (日本発祥地祭り, Nihonhasshouchi matsuri), held in February, tells the story of the descent to Earth by the grandson of the sun goddess, as told in the oldest writings in Japan- the Kojiki (古事記, Records of Ancient Matters) and the Nihon Shoki (日本書紀, Chronicles of Japan). During the festival there is a long procession from Sano Shrine (狭野神社, sanojinja) to Ojibaru Park (皇子原公園, ojibarukouen), presentations of traditional performing arts, such as Sano kagura and Haraigawa kagura (dances dedicated to the Shinto gods, registered as Important Intangible Folk Cultural Properties), and also a barbecue festival to take part in. In the evenings, the fire festival is held, giving a sense of the mysterious and mythical world of the Shinto gods. At 0:08 in the video, you can see some of the ancient traditions that have been passed down through the ages. The fireworks in the summer night sky are a beautiful sight. Takaharu's Traditional Performing Arts: Sano Kagura and Haraigawa Kagura Source :YouTube screenshot Sano Kagura is a Shinto ritual held every year on the first Saturday in December, mainly by visitors to the shrine. It is a traditional dance performed with a real sword, and has been designated an Important Intangible Cultural Asset of Japan. It attracts many visitors each year. It can be seen from 0:30 in the video. It's one of the most popular festivals held in Takaharu, Miyazaki prefecture. Haraigawa Kagura is another traditional dance performed using real swords. It's held every year on the second Saturday in December. During the intermission there's an opportunity for children to practice dancing with the swords which is always a crowd pleaser. Similarly to Sano Kagura, Haraigawa Kagura is also on the list of Important Intangible Cultural Assets of Japan. Enjoy the Beautiful Rural Landscape of Takaharu Photo：Rhododendrons Mt. Kirishima is a mountain range in Takaharu where you can find the beautiful Mt. Takachiho (高千穂峰, takachihonomine). The reflection of the mountain on the nearby rice paddies creates some magnificent scenery. In Ojibaru Park there is a fish pond where you can catch rainbow trout, ride go-karts, and lodging as well, making it a wonderful place to enjoy nature. You can see this at 1:36 in the video. You can also take part in a soba noodle making experience using water from the Haraigawa river. Mt. Takachiho, which has been selected as one of Japan's top 100 mountains, is covered in Rhododendrons from spring to the beginning of summer . The purplish red carpet of flowers that covers the mountain has made it a very popular tourist destination. There are two paths to climb the mountain, and once you reach the top you'll find a famous spear called "Amenisakahoko," which is said to have pierced the ground upon Ninigi no Mikoto's (grandson of the sun goddess Amaterasu) descent to Earth. Here you can feel the divine presence of the Shinto gods. From 2:19 in the video, you can see the beautiful scenery of the Kirishima mountains. Summary of Takaharu, Miyazaki Prefecture As you can see from the video, Takaharu is a town steeped in myth, legend and beautiful nature. Although it isn't featured in the video, Takaharu is also famous for its statue of Studio Ghibli's Totoro. Be sure to keep your eyes open for it! Takaharu is a great place to enjoy Japanese festivals, learn more about Japanese culture, and enjoy nature to its fullest. We hope that after watching this video you are eager to visit! The area is scattered with hot springs and ryokan (Japanese style inns) and is a lovely place to take a trip! 【Official Website】Takaharu town hall official website https://www.town.takaharu.lg.jp/ 【Official Website】Kirishima Geopark http://www.mct.ne.jp/users/kiri-geopark/en/index.html 【Official Website】Ministry of the Environment, Kirishima National Park https://www.env.go.jp/en/nature/nps/park/kirishima/index.html

Sightseeing in Hashima City, Gifu Prefecture! Introducing sightseeing in Hashima City, Gifu Prefecture! This video introduces the Hashima City sightseeing video "Hashima City Sightseeing PR Video. Normal Version, 2017," produced by the "Hashima City Tourism Association." Hashima City, in Gifu Prefecture, is an area with excellent traffic access thanks to the Tokaido Shinkansen route. Get off at Gifu-Hashima Station, where the statues of the Japanese politicians, Mr. and Mrs. Mutsune Ono, stand in front of the station and enjoy sightseeing around the scenic Hashima city. Enjoy this quick 3 minute clip filled with the nature, history, festivals, and gourmet food of Hashima City, Gifu Prefecture. Tourist Attractions in Hashima City! Source :YouTube screenshot In Hashima City, a place overflowing with nature, you can enjoy the cherry blossoms of Hashima Park (羽島公園, Hashima koen) and Sakai river (境川, Sakaigawa) in the spring, the wisteria trellises of the Takehana Betsuin Temple (真宗大谷派竹鼻別院, Shinshu Otaniha Takehana Betsuin), and the lotuses of Oga Lotus garden (大賀ハス園, Oga hasu koen) in the early summer. In autumn, you can gaze upon the the vast sunflower field, the cosmos of Ichinoeda, and the rows of ginkgo trees. The seasonal scenery is perfect for Instagram, so don't forget to bring your camera! You can see Ichinoeda Cosmos Square, with one side dyed pink, at 0:43 in the video. Hongaku Temple (本覚寺, Hongaku ji) in Hashima City, is famous for its cloud dragon ceiling painting, shown at 2:08 in the video. We also recommend checking out Yoro Park (養老公園, Yoro koen), where the Yoro Falls are located, as well as Yoro Shrine (養老神社, Yoro jinja). Other sightseeing spots we recommend are Chiyobo Inari Shrine (千代保稲荷神社, Chiyobo Inari jinja), the Great Buddha of Sakichi in the Takehana area, Naka Kannon Hall (中観音堂, Naka Kannon do) and the Hashima Enku Museum (羽島円空資料館, Hashima Enku Shiryokan), and the Hashima City Folk Museum. After sightseeing, enjoy local gourmet dishes using lotus root, while sipping on sake, or relax at a hot spring inn or hotel. The local cuisine of Hashima City is introduced at 2:13 in the video. Lotus root rice bowls, boiled fish, miso dumplings, sake ... everything looks so delicious. Hashima City Event Information! Source :YouTube screenshot Check out the historical festivals and popular events in Hashima City, Gifu Prefecture. In Hashima City, the Hashima Spring Festival is held in the spring, and during the Golden Week there is a lively float festival called the Takehana Festival. The Nobi Fireworks, a tradition upheld since the Meiji Period, are also something to look out for. The Japanese drum called Hajima Taiko, introduced at 0:19, is also famous. Let's go to events such as Japanese drum live and music festival. Summary of Sightseeing in Hashima City, Gifu Prefecture! Gifu Prefecture's Hashima City has many interesting sightseeing spots. Hashima City can also be easily accessed from Kanto and Kansai by bullet train, making it a great place to visit. In the video, you can see information about Hashima City that we couldn't include in this article, such as "Mino-Jima," a traditional cotton loom handed down since the Edo Period (1603-1868)! If you're looking to enjoy the beautiful, natural scenery of Japan, along with famous sights, consider adding Gifu Prefecture to your itinerary and drop by Hashima City! 【Official Website】Hashima City, Gifu Prefecture City Hall Homepage https://www.city.hashima.lg.jp/ 【Official Website】 Hashima City Tourism Association | Introducing sightseeing spots and events in Hashima City, Gifu Prefecture https://hashimakanko.jp/wp2/wp-content/uploads/2017/08/guide_en.pdf

The Japanese Squirrel This video, titled "A Baby Squirrel in the Forest, Early in the Morning" (子リスの活動、早朝の森の中で), was created by "squirrelstail1." It contains footage of a baby Japanese squirrel in the wild. Squirrels at zoos are especially popular among children. Throughout this video you can see footage of the wild Japanese squirrel. You won't be able to take your eyes off of this adorable critter! Watching the quick and nimble movements of the Japanese squirrel is guaranteed to bring a smile to your face. In this article, we'll introduce the Japanese squirrel, a squirrel native to Japan. Japanese Squirrel Facts Photo：Squirrel The Japanese squirrel is a member of the order Rodentia, family Sciuridae and genus Sciurus (齧歯目リス科リス属, gesshimokurisukarisuzoku), and is more commonly referred to as a rodent (齧歯類, gesshirui). It is called both Nihonrisu (ニホンリス) and Hondorisu (ホンドリス) in Japanese. An adult Japanese squirrel can grow to a height of 16-22 cm with a tail length of 13-17 cm and weight as much as 300g. The underbelly and tip of their tail is white in color and the fur on their body is known to change color depending on the season. Their summer coat is a reddish-brown color whereas their winter coat is more of a grayish-brown color. The Japanese squirrel's call sounds like "kyuukyuu" (キューキュー) in Japanese. You can buy squirrels at pet shops, and other pets, such as chipmunks, can be purchased for around 10,000 yen. They're relatively easy to care for making them a popular small pet. You can buy pellets or seeds to feed your pet squirrel at either a pet shop or home center. Photo：Manchurian walnuts The Japanese squirrel is mostly herbivorous. They like to feed on Manchurian walnuts (オニグルミ, onigurumi) and the seeds and fruits of Japanese larch (カラマツ, karamatsu), Japanese red pine (アカマツ, akamatsu) and Japanese white pine (ゴヨウマツ, goyoumatsu) trees. They are also known to occasionally eat insects and other small animals. They store food in pouches in their cheeks and take it back to their nest where they will then bury and store it underground. From 1:09 and 2:34 in the video, you can see adorable footage of a Japanese squirrel eating food it has found, using both of its tiny hands. Distribution and Habitat of the Japanese Squirrel Source :YouTube screenshot The Japanese squirrel lives in subalpine zones and woodland areas. They are diurnal animals who tend to be very active during the day and rest in the evening. They usually spend most of their time in a set area but may occasionally venture outside of that area to look for food. Japanese squirrels spend most of their time up in the tree tops where they build round nests. From 2:54 in the video, you can see a Japanese squirrel easily climb a tree. Wild Japanese squirrels do not hibernate in winter and have an average life span of 3 to 5 years. Japanese squirrels kept in captivity tend to have a slightly longer life span of around 5 to 7 years. How to Distinguish the Japanese Squirrel From Other Squirrels Photo：Japanese squirrel There are many species of squirrels, such as the Japanese squirrel, Hokkaido squirrel (エゾリス, ezorisu), Taiwanese squirrel (タイワンリス, taiwanrisu), Tamians, and chipmunks (シマリス, shimarisu) and red squirrels (キタリス, kitarisu). They all have their own unique characteristics, but the Japanese squirrel and Taiwanese squirrel are fairly hard to distinguish so we'll describe the differences between the two. The Japanese squirrel has a white border around its eyes which the Taiwanese squirrel doesn't have. In winter, the Japanese squirrel has a tuft of hair at the tip of its ears and a white underbelly; however, the Taiwanese squirrel's underbelly remains the same color as the rest of its body. The Taiwanese squirrel is a non-native species introduced to Japan and are known to be very aggressive in nature. Their increasing numbers, particularly in areas such as Kamakura (鎌倉), are becoming a problem. Summary of the Japanese Squirrel This video shown in this article contains footage of the Japanese squirrel. You won't be able to take your eyes off the cute Japanese squirrel as it plays in the forest early in the morning. If you love animals, be sure to check out the video!

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

Nagoya Castle - A Popular Tourist Destination in Aichi Prefecture This video, titled "Nagoya Castle Main Tower Keep Promotional Video," was released by "2010Network." Nagoya Castle is a huge castle built in Aichi District (愛知郡), Owari (尾張国), formerly known as "Owari no Kuni," during the Warring States Period (1467-1615 AD). There are many castles in Japan, but the magnificent Nagoya Castle is by far one of the most popular among tourists. Nagoya Castle is a famous landmark housing many national treasures, including the superb castle tower. In 2018, the number of visitors to the castle exceeded 2.2 million. The History of Nagoya Castle Since the Warring States Period Photo：Nagoya Castle, Aichi Prefecture Nagoya Castle was built by Tokugawa Ieyasu, who emerged victorious from the decisive Battle of Sekigahara, and was built in nearby the ruins of Nagoya Castle (那古野城, Nagoya-Jo), said to be the birthplace of Oda Nobunaga. Tension was increasing with the forces of Toyotomi Hideyoshi during this period, and Ieyasu built Nagoya Castle as a key military location. Nagoya Castle served as the residence of the lords of the Owari domain for generations during the Edo period (1603-1868 A.D.) after Yoshinao Tokugawa, the founder of the Owari Tokugawa family. It became the Nagoya Detached Imperial Palace for the use of the imperial family after the Meiji period (1868-1912 A.D.). In the Showa period (1926-1989 A.D.), it was designated as Japan's first National Treasure as a castle building. Since then, it has continued to be open to the public as a highly popular tourist attraction. The Must-See Features of Nagoya Castle Photo：Nagoya Castle, Aichi Prefecture Nagoya Castle is also known as "Kinshachi Castle" (金 "kin" meaning gold) after the golden Shachihoko that decorate the castle tower, which has become a symbol of Nagoya. Besides the main tower keep, the magnificent honmaru (inner citadel) and Shoin Hall are must-see features. The outstanding Stone Walls of Nagoya Castle were built via stonewall construction in various areas, including the Mikawa Bay (三河湾, Mikawa-Wan) area. Kiyomasa Kato played an active role in the construction of the stone walls, and the huge stone said to be the largest stonewall in Nagoya Castle is called "Kiyomasa Stone." Enshu Kobori and Masakiyo Nakai were in charge of the construction of the castle tower. This is detailed at 1:10 in the video. When you visit the Sarumenbogaku Tea House, Yuin Tea House, and shops, you may also want to visit the Oribe-Do, which was built to honor Oribe Furuta. Nagoya Castle's Castle Tower Under Reconstruction! Photo：Nagoya Castle, Aichi Prefecture Since May 2018, the demolition and renovation of Nagoya Castle's castle tower has been carried out as the "War Damaged Wood Restoration Project" (戦災木造復元プロジェクト). The restoration of the wooden castle tower is scheduled to last until December 2022. Everyone is looking forward to seeing the restored castle tower once the restoration is finished. Summary of the Historical Nagoya Castle Photo：Nagoya Castle, Aichi Prefecture As shown in the video, Nagoya Castle is a building of great historical value built during Japan's Warring States Period. The castle is large, but you can enjoy exploring it as there are elevators available and many historical materials are on display. ◆Nagoya Castle Facility Information◆ 【Address】1-1 Honmaru, Naka Ward, Nagoya City, Aichi 460-0031 【Access】Train: 5-minute walk from the "Shiyakusho (City Hall)" Station of the Meijo Line. Bus: 1-minute walk from the "Nagoyajo Seimon-Mae" stop 【Admission fee】500 Yen for adults, Free for junior high school students and younger 【Parking】Payed Parking Lot available 【Official Website】Nagoya Castle Official Website https://www.nagoyajo.city.nagoya.jp/en/ 【Tripadvisor】Nagoya Castle https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g14127381-d320128-Reviews-Nagoya_Castle-Naka_Nagoya_Aichi_Prefecture_Tokai_Chubu.html

Makomanai Takino Cemetery’s "Hill of the Buddha" in Sapporo, Hokkaido "Introduction to the Hill of the Buddha" (頭大仏の紹介), is a video about the Hill of the Buddha, a symbol of Makomanai Takino Cemetery where you can see the head of the Great Buddha. At Makomanai Takino Cemetery, you can also see a vast landscape of lavender hills with more than 15 thousand lavenders. This dramatic Hill of the Buddha, standing at the top of a dome-shaped slope, was designed by Ando Tadao, a famous architect, in 2016 to celebrate the 30th anniversary of Makomanai Takino Cemetery. It is made up of 57 parts, which were selected and processed from 4,000 tons of unpolished stones. It is 13.5 meters high and weighs 1,500 tons. Initially, it was called “Mitama Kuyo Daibutsu.” You can see the Great Buddha in its entirety from 0:08 in the video. The construction of the Hill of the Buddha began in October 2013 and finished in 2016. As you can see from 0:56 in the video, the hardest part of this project was growing the 15 thousand lavenders. With the advice of lavender farmers and the help of volunteers, they succeeded in growing the lavenders from seed. It took about three years to build the Hill of the Buddha, and the construction process can be seen from 1:31 in the video. Makomanai Takino Cemetery's Hill of the Buddha Source :YouTube screenshot The Hill of the Buddha at Makomanai Takino Cemetery, Sapporo, Hokkaido, features the Great Buddha poking his head out from the lavender hill. According to the architect Ando Tadao, the purpose of this is to emphasize the gratitude of the Great Buddha as “that which you cannot see stimulates the imagination.” As you can see from 4:07 in the video, there is an approach with lavenders when entering Makomanai Takino Cemetery. There is also a water garden, which is a bypass of the pathway behind the approach. The water is a boundary to purify mind and to awaken the extraordinary. After going through the water garden, there is a tunnel that goes through the hill, which is shown at 4:25 in the video. The tunnel represents the womb and is lined with concrete folds. You can see the Great Buddha as you pass through the tunnel, and the panoramic view of the Buddha, which you can see along the 135-meter walk, is even more impressive. The light from the sky lights up the Buddha and surrounds you with artistic scenery. Learn About the Construction Process at the Gallery and Café Source :YouTube screenshot Next to the water-basin, there is a gallery where you can see the construction process of the Hill of the Buddha. Here, you can find out what the famous architect Ando Tadao had in mind when he designed the project. Across the gallery, lays the “Rotunda Café and Store.” You can enjoy snacks and tea and buy original merchandise and souvenirs here. It was opened in 2018 as a rest station, due to the increase of foreign tourists. Also, there are replicas of Easter Island’s Moai statues, which carry the meaning of “living into the future,” as well as a replica of Stonehenge. Information About Makomanai Takino Cemetery Photo：The Great Buddha Access to Makomanai Takino Cemetery in Sapporo City, Hokkaido is 20-30 minutes from Makomanai Station by bus from the Namboku Subway Line. Times may vary by season, so check out the homepage for more details. If you are driving, you can use the free parking areas in the south and north. The lots have a capacity of 245 cars, so be sure to check the map if you're planning on driving. There is a 300 yen (~$3 USD) "lavender maintenance fee" you must pay if you want to see the Hill of the Buddha. It is open from 7 am to 7 pm during summer, and 7 am to 6 pm during winter. Enjoy Art at Sapporo's Newest Spiritual Site! Source :YouTube screenshot Are you interested in visiting the Hill of the Buddha? The Hill of the Buddha is a new sightseeing spot in Sapporo, Hokkaido, not only for its powerful atmosphere, but also for its refreshing and beautiful scenery. If you're thinking about visiting Hokkaido, be sure to stop by! ◆Information◆ 【Address】2-3 Takino, Minami, Sapporo, Hokkaido 005-0862 【Access】20 to 30 minutes by bus from Metro Namboku Line, Makomanai Station 【Admission Fee】~300 yen lavender maintenance fee 【Hours】 7 am to 7 pm during summer. 7 am to 6 pm during winter 【Parking】Available 【Phone number】 011-592-1223 【Official Website】Makomanai Takino Cemetery https://www.takinoreien.com/ 【Tripadvisor】Makomanai Takino Cemetery https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g298560-d12597229-Reviews-Makomanai_Takino_Cemetery-Sapporo_Hokkaido.html

PR Video of Mountain Climbing at the Northern Alps' Hakuba Mountain Range- "The Backbone of Japan" This official PR video of Hakuba village, titled “Hakuba village [Dramatic Nature Days – Mountain]"（白馬村公式ムービー【Dramatic Nature Days - Mountain】）” is a time-lapse video produced by the Hakuba tourist office. The Northern Alps' Hakuba Mountain Range is located in the middle of the Japanese archipelago. Its structure, which lies between the Japanese sea and the Pacific Ocean, creates dynamic scenery. This two minutes video features the beautiful views of the Hakuba mountain range and recommended tourist spots in Hakuba village. Events in Hakuba, Nagano Photo：Hakuba Village in the Spring Hakuba village in Nagano prefecture is a popular tourist spot in Japan. Tourists can enjoy various activities throughout the year, such as hot springs, mountain climbing, skiing, cycling, and camping. It is also famous as a summer resort where many tourists visit due to it's comfortable climate. The Northern Alps is a great location where people can enjoy various outdoor activities such as trekking and mountain climbing while seeing fabulous natural views including flowers, snow, wildlife, and more. The Northern Alps - The Mountaineer Mecca Photo：The Northern Alps The rugged mountains shown in the video are the Northern Alps. Hakuba Village is one of Japan's most famous mountaineering spots thanks to the Hakuba mountain range. The Japanese Alps and Mt. Fuji are two of the world's most sacred mountaineering destinations and attract many climbers every year, but the Hakuba mountain range has more than 17 of the most famous peaks. “Shirouma-dake,” “Shakushi-dake,” and “Yariga-dake” are well-known as “The Three Peaks of Hakuba.” Some of the peaks are: ・Goryu-dake (9,232 ft.) (~0:44) ・Karamatu-dake (8,845 ft.) (~0:49) ・Yariga-dake (9524 ft.) (~1:22) ・Shakushi-dake (9,225 ft.) (~1:26) ・Shirouma-dake (9,619 ft.) (~1:42) If you enjoy climbing, be sure to carry rain gear and a map, even if you're enjoying a beginner's trekking trail, as the weather in the mountains can change easily. In the Hakuba mountain range, you can see rare alpine flowers and animals that cannot be found in the plains. Taking a commemorative photo with the Hakuba mountain range in the background is a great way to remember your trip. Be sure to share it on Instagram! The Hot Springs of Hakuba Village Source :YouTube screenshot Hakuba village is very popular as a hot springs area. The most recommended spot is "Hakuba Yari Onsen" (白馬鑓温泉) in the middle of Yariga-dake. You can see this hot spring in this video at 0:33. The view of the rising sun and star sprinkled sky from the open air bath are remarkable! 100 people can stay at the Hakuba Yari Onsen lodge and about 15 people can stay in a tent. The Yari Onsen lodge is a great spot where visitors can enjoy both hot springs and nature. If you would like more information about other accommodations in Hakuba village as well as access information, please see the official website of Yariga Onsen or the Hakuba village tourist office's website. The Nagano Olympics in Hakuba Village Be sure to check out the following facilities used as competition venues during the Nagano Olympics: ・HAPPO ONE SNOW RESORT ・Hakuba Ski Slope ・Hakuba Cross Country Stadium "Snow Harp" Hakuba village is in a snowy area of Japan. Visitors can enjoy skiing or snow boarding in fresh powdery snow. You'll be amazed at the amazing snowscape that stretches as far as the eye can see. Summary of Hakuba Village Photo：Hakuba mountain and Oide Park in spring Hakuba village is a great tourist spot with fierce weather and rich natural surroundings. There are other attractive places that weren't shown in the video as well. For example, you can remnants of the Jomon period at Aoni in Hakuba village. Also there are other experienced based activities where you can feel the history and culture of Japan, such as making Tonbo dama (glass beads), watching fireflies, or making soba (Japanese noodles). You can enjoy the magnificent views of Hakuba mountain range in this video. The vast sea of clouds extending to the horizon (0:06) and the star sprinkled skies (1:08) will take your breath away. 【Official Website】Hakuba Village Official Tourist Website https://www.vill.hakuba.nagano.jp/english/ 【Official Website】Hakuba Village Office Official Website https://www.vill.hakuba.lg.jp/

The Vast Sceneries of Hokkaido This video, titled "Hokkaido , Japan / 4K UHD," was produced by SL Film Studio. Hokkaido is a popular tourist destination for visitors to Japan, and there are many things to see and do there. In this article, we'll show you some of the best places to visit in Hokkaido, alongside the video! Recommended Destinations in Hokkaido The Sapporo Clock Tower is one of Hokkaido's most popular tourist attractions, and Odori Park is the site of major festivities in Hokkaido. The Okurayama Observation Deck was the site of the 1972 Winter Olympics in Sapporo. Shiroi Koibito cookies are a famous souvenir found in the area. Asahikawa has unique tourist attractions, such as Asahikawa Ramen Village. Asahiyama Zoo is another famous location in Hokkaido. The zoo features behavioral exhibits that show the animals in their natural state. When we think of Hokkaido's wildlife, bears and foxes are the first things that come to mind. If you want to learn more about the ecology of foxes, there's Kitakitsune Farm (Fox Farm), which is famous for its wooden bear carvings and traditional crafts. Historical Sightseeing Locations in Hokkaido Otaru Port, where the Otaru Canal is located, is the gateway of pioneers in Hokkaido. Along the walkway, you'll see gas lamps and stone warehouses that retain remnants of days long passed. Goryokaku in Hakodate is an essential part of Hokkaido's history, and is one of the top tourist attractions in Hokkaido. It's based on early modern European castle technology. Abashiri Prison is an inseparable part of the eastern Hokkaido area's history. Despite its name, the Abashiri Prison has an impressive modern interior with a touch of Western architecture. Hokkaido's Spectacular Natural Scenery and Winter Leisure If you visit Hakodate in Hokkaido, you can take the Mt. Hakodate Ropeway to enjoy the beautiful night view. Cape Soya, the northernmost cape in Japan, and Lake Akan, introduced at 1:49 in the video, are also worth a visit. Ainu Kotan in Kushiro City, Hokkaido, is a tourist attraction that conveys the traditional culture of the Ainu people. Lake Mashu, on the other hand, is a popular scenic spot famous for being the clearest lake in Japan. Shirogane Blue Pond and the famous Shirahige Waterfall in the Shirogane Onsen area, can be seen at 1:25 in the video. The clear blue water is a natural wonder and great for taking Instagram pics! There are also hot springs in Noboribetsu and Toyako (Toya Lake). From 2:52 in the video, you can see a cruise on Lake Toya. In addition to the rich natural scenery, you can also enjoy skiing and other leisure activities. Kiroro Resort, which takes its name from the Ainu language, is a famous hotel resort in the area. Enjoy the Gourmet Cuisine of the Cold Climate Hokkaido is full of delicious food. Representative dishes include the lamb dish Genghis Khan (Jingisukan), ramen, seafood dishes with crab, soup curry, and pork bowls. Other typical Hokkaido delicacies include "chanchan yaki," a dish made with grilled fish such as salmon, and vegetables and seasoned with miso, Ishikari Nabe, a hot pot dish with salmon as the main ingredient, and Zangi, which is similar to fried chicken. Summary of Hokkaido - An Easy-To-Visit Tourist Destination Thanks to the Diversified Transportation With the diversification of transportation, including airplanes and the shinkansen (bullet train), you can enjoy your trip to Hokkaido through a variety of means. There are 14 airports in Hokkaido, and rental cars are also available. The weather from November to March can be colder than in the middle of winter on the mainland, so you'll want to be prepared for the elements. Check out the video to enjoy the magnificent scenery of Hokkaido!

About the San’in region promotion video "San'in, Japan 4K (Ultra HD) - 山陰" is a promotional video produced by "San’in JAPAN" that introduces famous sites and sightseeing locations in the San'in region, a nature rich area facing the Sea of Japan. Located in the southwestern area of Honshu, Japan's main island, the San'in region spans along the coast of the Japan Sea and consists of Shimane and Tottori prefectures, as well as the northern area of Yamaguchi Prefecture. It also includes the northern area of the prefectures of Kyoto and Hyogo as well, depending on who you ask. The total population of the San'in region is about 1,230,000 as of June 2019. Popular destinations in the region are: Lake Shinji, the Tottori Sand Dunes, Matsue Castle, Mt. Daisen, and Izumo-taisha. There's also nature, historic buildings, and local seafood dishes. All of this is condensed into the 3-minute video of San'in. Sit back, relax, and enjoy a look at Japan's San'in region. Japan's San'in Region- Tottori Sand Dunes Photo：Camel in the tottori sand dunes The Tottori Sand Dunes in Tottori Prefecture, the largest in Japan, are a popular tourist attraction in the San'in Region, and are the only sand dunes in Japan designated as a natural monument. Japan’s amazing desert-like Tottori Sand Dunes has a 90-meter difference in elevation, and visitors can enjoy beautiful views of the Sea of Japan from atop them, as well as the wind-wrought pattern, known as Fumon, on the surface of sand. There's also a beautiful sunset at the Tottori Dunes. You can see the Tottori Sand Dunes from 0:06 in the video. It's the only place in Japan where you'll find sand in every direction. The dunes also attract Instagrammers looking for photogenic scenery. Recommended Spots in Shimane- Oki Islands & Tachikuekyo Photo： Iwakura Chichi-sugi The Oki Islands in Shimane Prefecture consists of 4 inhabited islands and a dozen uninhabited islands. Due to their geological heritage, the Oki Islands have been designated a UNESCO Global Geopark. When you set foot in Oki, you'll encounter a deep forest, home to Chichi-sugi, a mysterious 800-year old Japanese cedar tree, the coasts of Shirashima, and Jodogaura. The Oki Islands appear at 0:21 in the video. Next is Tachikuekyo, a narrow gorge with a beautiful suspension bridge and spires of uniquely-shaped rocks rising high into the air. It's a great place to visit because of its five hundred Arhat statues and Reikoji temple. Recommended Locations in Tottori- Uradome Coast & Mt. Daisen The next spot introduced in the video is “Uradome coast” in Tottori. A beautiful ria coastline surrounded by the clear, rough waters of the Sea of Japan. Mt. Daisen shown in the video from 1:21, is the highest mountain in Japan's Chugoku Region. It's shape changes vastly depending on which side of the mountain you are standing on, and also changes its color depending on the season. The beautifully autumn foliage is a sight to behold. The view of Sakasa Daisen, a view of Mt. Daisen together with the upside down Mt. Daisen reflecting off the water's surface, is also a popular tourist attraction. Nariishi Beach in Kotoura has stones that have been rounded off by the rough waves, and that rattle as the waves roll in. The beach is shown at 1:34 in the video. Food, Culture, and Tradition in Japan's San'in Region Photo：Matsuba crab in Tottori prefecture At Tottori’s Sakaiminato port, one of the largest landings of queen crabs in Japan, queen crabs start being caught while it's still dark. You can eat fresh seafood in the fish market as shown in the video at1:46. Sakaiminato is also known as the home of Mizuki Shigeru, creator of the famous cartoon series "Gegege no Kitaro." Mizuki Shigeru Road, a street dedicated to all the yokai characters that appear in his stories, attracts many visitors as well. If you're stopping by the area, don't forget to try Izumo Soba. It's to die for! Iwami Kagura, a Japanese heritage that has been handed down in Shimane Prefecture since ancient times, is a fantastic representation of the world of mythology. It has events all year round as well so be sure to check it out. This can be seen at 1:52 in the video. It's a great way to familiarize yourself with traditional Japanese culture. In the Izumo region of Tottori Prefecture, there's a history of Tatara iron manufacturing. The Okuizumo Tatara Sword Museum is a great place to visit to learn about old iron making technology. You can also see a sword forging demonstration as well. The Nakai Pottery of Inshu, Tottori Prefecture, another traditional handicraft, is introduced at 2:28 in the video. Historic Buildings & Gardens in the San'in Region Photo：Matsue Castle The next spot shown in the video is Miho Shrine in Shimane. This solemn shrine is dedicated to Ebisu (the Japanese god of fishermen). The beautiful Matsue Castle, also known as Chidori Castle, is one of the few remaining castles from the Edo period in Japan, and is known as a spot where you can see the entire city of Matsue from the castle tower. The castle can be seen at 2:48 in the video. It's a must-visit destination for history lovers. Shimane also features one of the most ancient and important Shinto shrines, "Izumo Taisha." Its shimenawa (a rope used to cordon off consecrated areas) triumphs as the largest in Japan. It's believed that Izumo Shrine enshrines a matchmaking deity, and is a famous power spot. At the Adachi Museum of Art, you can enjoy Japanese paintings and ceramic works by masters from modern to contemporary times. The 50,000-square-meter Japanese garden is so beautiful that it was ranked number one on the list of best Japanese gardens. It consists of 6 beautiful gardens, such as the "White Gravel and Pine Garden," the "Moss Garden," and more. In Yonago, Tottori, dozens of jizo statues (statues of Buddhist deities) are lined up along the Kamogawa riverside. One of the main events at the Kamogawa Festival in August is the "Jizo walk," where participants walk across the city hunting for jizo statues. Taikodani Inari Shrine in Tsuwano, Shimane is one of the most important Inari Shrines in Japan, and features an approach lined with closely placed torii gates, forming a red, tunnel-like entrance. We strongly recommend visiting here if you're traveling to the San'in region. By the way, the name "San'in" comes from the name of the road "San'indo," a road in the San'in region from when the province was divided into seven administrative divisions. Summary of Japan's San-In Region The San'in region is full of nature, history, and has plenty of sights to see. Hopefully we've got you interested in this hidden gem. Be sure to check out the video if you haven't yet, as it contains some great footage of the San'in region, as well as information not featured in the article. Enjoying fresh crab, soaking in the Misasa hot springs... the ways to enjoy the San'in region are endless!

Okinawa Churaumi Aquarium: A Popular in Sightseeing Spot in Japan Produced by "Sanpostyle", "Okinawa Sightseeing - Okinawa Churaumi Aquarium Digest Almost Route（沖縄観光　沖縄美ら海水族館　ほぼ順路をダイジェストで）" is a video that introduces the charm of Okinawa Churaumi Aquarium, a popular tourist location in Okinawa, Japan. The aquarium is introduced in tandem with the video, so if you watch the video you'll definitely want to visit it for real! This article introduces the attractions and highlights of Okinawa Churaumi Aquarium; a recommended sightseeing spot in Okinawa. Please enjoy it! What Is Churaumi Aquarium? Photo：Coral reef The Okinawa Churaumi Aquarium, popular among visitors to Okinawa, is located in Ocean Expo Park in Motobu Town, Okinawa Prefecture, and opened in 1979. It was the largest aquarium in the world until 2005. The total number of exhibition water tanks is 77. It was the world's first successful whale shark breeding location as well. The mysterious fish and other creatures of Okinawa are displayed in the world's largest aquarium, attracting many tourists. They breed about 520 species and 10,500 animals. You can enjoy the sea of Okinawa as much as you want. Enjoy the Kuroshio Sea, the world's largest aquarium where you can observe Nanyo Manta, and the Coral Sea, where you can see coral breeding exhibits. At the coral sea, you can see 800 groups of coral (0:35). During the sightseeing season, it might be crowded, but it is relatively empty during the evening. On-site facilities include a restaurant with an ocean view, a cafe where you can relax while watching the large aquarium, and a shop where you can purchase souvenirs from Okinawa. It has English-speaking staff, making it a popular facility for foreigners. The Charm of Okinawa Churaumi Aquarium Photo：Churaumi Aquarium What attracts people to the Okinawa Churaumi Aquarium is that you can see various Okinawan creatures in a massive aquarium. You can see great white sharks and manta rays in the main aquarium of the Okinawa Churaumi Aquarium, which can be seen from 2:12 in the video. "Journey to the Deep Sea," which can be viewed from 3:44 in the video, reproduces the mysterious deep sea of Okinawa and allows you to observe about 70 species of deep-sea creatures. At the entrance of the aquarium there is a great white shark monument, welcoming tourists. Behind that, there is the Uminchu Gate, and the emerald green sea seen from this space is a special beauty. In addition, there are the "Inou Creatures" (Video 0:23-), "Sea of Tropical Fish" (Video 0:55-), "Journey to Coral Reefs (Video 1:27-), "Waterside Creatures," "Beauty Sea Theater," "Dr. Shark Room" (Video 2:51-), "Water Viewing: Kuroshio Exploration" (Video 3:13-), "Jimbe Manta Corner," "Aqua Room," "Deep Sea Exploration Room" (Video 3:44 -), "Small creatures in the deep sea," "Planetarium in the sea," "Aqua Lab," "general rest area," "coral room," "event hall," "deep sea map," and so on. The in-house facilities are full of charm. You can enjoy lunch at the restaurant "Inoh" or at the "Ocean Blue" cafe. Information on Okinawa Churaumi Aquarium Photo：Churaumi Aquarium Okinawa Churaumi Aquarium ticket prices are 1,880 yen (~$17.50 USD) 8:30 to 16:00 for adults, elementary and middle schoolers 1,250 yen, and 620 yen for children. After 16:00, it is 1,310 yen for adults, 870 yen for middle-aged people, and 430 yen for children (as of November 2019). Out-of-area sales tickets that can be purchased at a discount from the above general rates can be purchased at Umi churara Naha Airport Store or at a convenience store in Okinawa Prefecture. If you are visiting with more than 20 people, make a reservation and a special group rate will be applied. The average time spent at the aquarium is 1.5 to 2 hours. Access from Naha Airport is about 2 hours by car on the expressway and about 3 hours by express bus. Okinawa Churaumi Aquarium has a nearby parking lot called North Gate Parking Lot. The official website also contains information on congestion and events. In addition, there are various hotels around the aquarium. Stay at a hotel that offers a variety of courses and relax yourself. Summary of Okinawa Churaumi Aquarium Okinawa Churaumi Aquarium is quite popular for sightseeing in Okinawa. Refresh your mind and feel the power and greatness of life in Japan's leading aquarium! Make sure to watch the video to see the power of one of the world's largest aquariums and the appearance of beautiful marine life! ◆ Okinawa Churaumi Aquarium ◆ 【Address】424 Ishikawa, Motobu-cho, Kunigami-gun, Okinawa 905-0206 【Access】From Naha Airport, about 2 hours by car (using expressway), about 3 hours by bus (using express bus) 【Entrance fee】8:30-16:00 (regular fee) Adult 1,800 yen / child 1,250 yen, 16:00- adult 1,310 yen / child 870 yen (* as of November 2019) 【Hours】Normal period (October-February) 8:30-18:30, Summer period (March-September) 8:30-20:00 【Closures】First Wednesday of December and the following day (Thursday) 【Parking】Available (9 locations) Free 【Telephone No】0980-48-3748 【Official Website】Okinawa Churaumi Aquarium-Take the Churaumi of Okinawa to the next generation. https://churaumi.okinawa/en/ 【Tripadvisor】 Reviews of Okinawa Churaumi Aquarium https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g1120808-d1151352-Reviews-Okinawa_Churaumi_Aquarium-Motobu_cho_Kunigami_gun_Okinawa_Prefecture.html

Aogashima Island - A Hidden Sightseeing Destination Rich in Nature Photo：Aogashima's rich natural scenery If you're looking to enjoy the sights and sounds of Japan but looking for a less crowded location with all sorts of beautiful scenery, then look no further than Aogashima Island, a hidden gem located among Tokyo's Izu Islands! You're actually not alone in this thinking. While Japan is full of beautiful temples and shrines, stepping away from the cliche sightseeing destinations to enjoy some lesser explored locations is something many people want to do. The problem is that they don't know how... Popular tourist sites are so packed with people that it can often be difficult to relax during your vacation, especially if you aren't good with crowds. Which is why we're introducing this video, titled "Aerial view of Aogashima Volcano, Aogashima Aerial Drone Footage [4K]" (Aerial view of Aogashima Volcano,青ヶ島 ドローン空撮【4K】). It's a video showing the entirety of Aogashima from up high. It's hard to believe this is actually part of Tokyo. This article will give you an overview of Aogashima, one of Tokyo's best-kept secret sites, including its attractions, and how to get to it. Aogashima Island Near Hachijojima Island, Tokyo Located 358 kms from Tokyo, Aogashima is a unique island with rich natural scenery. Aogashima is an isolated island with a distinctive double caldera topography. The unique shape of Aogashima, which was created by an active volcano, is growing in popularity, both inside and outside of Japan, as this type of landscape cannot be seen in many other places, especially in one so beautiful. In the olden days, the island was forbidden to women, and they say there was a time when it was called "Onga-Shima" (男ヶ島, Onga-Shima), meaning roughly "Man's Island." The island has the smallest population of any village in Japan, and is full of beautiful scenery. Aogashima - An Isolated Island in Tokyo Photo：Aogashima Observatory Park Aogashima, a hidden tourist site outside of Tokyo, has a variety of attractions. First of all, Aogashima offers a spectacular view of the island's natural scenery. Aogashima has a number of observation decks, which are famous places where you can admire the island's distinctive scenery and spectacular views of the beautiful ocean. When you travel to Aogashima, the observation decks are a must-visit. Tokyo's Aogashima is also famous for its beautiful starry sky. The starry sky seen from the vicinity of Ikenozawa (池ノ沢, Ikenozawa) is spectacular and you'd be missing out if you didn't take the opportunity to admire it. Aogashima is a great spot for those who want to enjoy the beautiful scenery as the area is still relatively untouched humans. The Isolated Island of Tokyo - How to Get to Aogashima, the Hidden Gem in the Izu Islands Access to Tokyo's Aogashima Island is as follows: First, take a ship from the mainland, passing Miyakejima Island (三宅島, Miyakejima) and Mikurajima Island (御蔵島, Miyakejima), to Hachijojima (approx. 11 hours). Alternatively, you can fly to Hachijojima from Haneda Airport. This takes about 50 minutes. From the relay point on Hachijojima, you take a helicopter to Aogashima, which takes about 20 minutes. It takes some time to get to the island, and you may feel it's inconvenient, but once you are surrounded by the stunning nature of Aogashima, you'll feel that it was worth the effort. Summary of Aogashima, a Hidden Gem in the Izu Islands Source :YouTube screenshot The video "Aerial view of Aogashima Volcano, Aogashima Aerial Drone Footage [4K]," produced by winteroptix, is a 4K video that captures the charm of Aogashima. You'll be absolutely amazed at what you can see and discover. It will have you wondering if it's really part of Tokyo. If you're curious about Aogashima, the hidden sightseeing destination in Tokyo, be sure to check out the video!

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

Kashima City, Ibaraki Prefecture This video, titled "This is Kashima City"（This is Kashima City【この街、かしま 編】）, is a promotional video for Kashima City, Ibaraki Prefecture in Japan's Kanto region, produced by the "Kashima City Public Relations Promotion Division." Kashima City is a city in the southeastern part of Ibaraki Prefecture with a population of about 60,000. Although it is not a big city, it is rich in history, culture, and nature, and home to Kashima Shrine, the Kashima Antlers, and the surfing Mecca, Shimotsu Beach. This time, we'll tell you about the charms of Kashima city and give some insight into a few unknown sightseeing spots. Sports, nature, history, and the charms of Kashima City are all packed into this 2 minute video. Try to keep up! Sports Hall of Fame: Introduction to Kashima Soccer Stadium Photo：Soccer Kashima City is also known for the Kashima Soccer Stadium, home of the J-Leauge soccer team, the Kashima Antlers. The Kashima Antlers, a popular football team in the J-League, call Kashima City, Kamisu City, Itako City, Fukakata City (formerly Kitaura Town) and Hokota City home. To get to Kashima Soccer Stadium, use the JR Kashima Line "Kashima Soccer Stadium Station." The video the Kashima Antlers during one of their practices, at0:19. A Surfer's Paradise: Introduction to Shimotsu Beach (下津海水浴場, Shimotsukaisuiyokujō) Photo：Surfer Shimotsu Beach is a popular beach with a parking lot nearby, and is visited by surfers and family vacationers from all over Japan. During surfing season, the Kashima Lifeguard Team is on duty, so you can enjoy swimming safely. Take a dip in Ibaraki Prefecture's clearest waters! This can be seen at 0:44 in the video. Places to See in Kashima City: Kashima Shrine Photo：Kashima Shrine Kashima Shrine has ties to the founding of Japan and is dedicated to Takemikazuchi, a famous god of martial arts. Built in the first year of Emperor Jinmu, this shrine is an important hub for Japan's Shinto religion. To get to Kashima Shrine, use the Kashima Jingu Expressway Bus (from Tokyo Station) or Kashima Jingu Station on the JR Kashima Line. If you're coming by car, get off at the Itako Interchange on the Higashi-Kanto Expressway and it'll take about 1.5 hours to reach the hotel. Please note that there is a fee for parking. Kashima Shrine is the most popular tourist spot in Kashima City. It is introduced in the video from 1:07, and you can see cute deer at Kashima Shrine as well. Nature and Space: Ono Shiosai Hamanasu Park Ono Shiosai Hamanasu Park has a “Space Observation Tower '' where you can enjoy a 360-degree panoramic view. In the facility, there is a gallery where paintings, photographs and handicrafts are displayed, and there's also a planetarium, and a local museum, which introduces the history of Kashima City. As you tell from the name Ono Shiosai Hamanasu Park (潮騒, Shiosai "Roar of the Sea"), the park has a "Jumbo Slide" where you can slide down to the sea, a children's playground where you can try climbing a rope, and a mountain stream walking course with a natural stream, all of which can be enjoyed while listening to the sounds of the Kashima Sea. It's also a great place to see the beautiful seasonal flowers, such as Japanese roses, cherry blossoms, plums, rhododendrons, and azaleas in full bloom. Fresh Seafood: Kashima Port Fishing Park Kashima Port Fishing Park is the largest fishing spot in Japan where you can enjoy all-season fishing. As long as you pay the entrance fee, all the fish you catch can be taken home, so be sure to enjoy the fresh seafood of Kashima City. In the waters near Kashima Port where the Kuroshio Current and Oyashio Current meet, there is a popular leisure spot where you can catch a lot of flatfish, horse mackerel, and smelt. Summary of Kashima City, Ibaraki Prefecture Photo：Kashima Soccer Stadium After reading this article, we hope we've convinced you that there's more to Kashima than just Kashima Shrine and the Kashima Antlers! There are plenty of places where you can enjoy your time, such as "Kashima Jingu Kaen," "Hitachi Kuni Ichinomiya," "Okosakizaki Hermanus Indigenous South Boundary," "Kashima Space Technology Center," "Hirai Beach," and "Kashima City Dokidoki Center." The view of the windmills along the coast is especially beautiful! Be sure to watch the video produced by "Kashima City" and what it has to offer! 【Official Website】Kashima City, Ibaraki City Hall Homepage http://city.kashima.ibaraki.jp/

The Incredible Skills of Okonomiyaki Chefs This video about Hiroshima style Okonomiyaki is titled “An Okonomiyaki Stall Bringing in Droves of Fans/2018/Craftsmanship/Street Food Japan Okonomiyaki" (その場でファンが出来るお好み焼き屋さん　2018　職人芸　Street Food Japan Okonomiyaki). The chef from the Okonomiyaki stall introduced in the video, is a full-fledged pro when it comes to making large amounts of Hiroshima style and Kansai style Okonomiyaki. Many customers gathered to see the outstanding performance, attracted by the delicious smell of the Okonomiyaki. Besides the incredible performance, the reason why Okonomiyaki is so popular is because of the relatively low prices and the filling nature of the delicious snack. Many people are impressed by the amazing performance of making Okonomiyaki. Check out the video to see the quick hands of this chef as he prepares Kansai/Hiroshima style Okonomiyaki. The performance is quite impressive. You'll probably want to see it in person after watching the video. What Kind of Food Is Okonomiyaki? Ingredients and How It's Made! Photo：Hiroshima style Okonomiyaki Okonomiyaki is a traditional Japanese food, and has been a soul food for many people for a long time. Okonomiyaki was created in Tokyo sometime between 1926 and 1941. The recipe is very simple- You simply mix all the ingredients and cook it on a teppan (iron grill/skillet) or in a pan. Later on, the custom spread from Tokyo to the Kansai region. There are two kinds of Okonomiyaki: Kansai style (Osaka area) and Kanto style (Tokyo area). What you see in the video is called Kansai style Okonomiyaki. Kansai style Okonomiyaki is made by mixing minced cabbage and batter together and cooking it on an iron pan. However, some people make it differently by flattening the batter on the iron pan and putting the cabbage on top. Modanyaki is a different type of Okonomiyaki that involves putting noodles into the mix. Modanyaki is also very popular in Japan. The recipe is pretty simple. Use flour and water to make a batter, and mix it with minced cabbage and Yamaimo (Japanese yam). From there, cook the ingredients on the iron plate after greasing it with cooking oil, adding sliced pork, noodles, green onions, eggs, and other delicious ingredients. You can simply put whatever ingredients you like in Okonomiyaki. Some other popular ingredients are seafood, cheese, and mochi (rice cakes). Once you've finished making the okonomiyaki, season it with okonomiyaki sauce, fish flakes, and dried green seaweed. Many people prefer mayonnaise on their Okonomiyaki. The most common way to eat Okonomiyaki is to cut it in small pieces using the spatula, so that it can be shared amongst friends. For the Okonomiyaki from a festival stall (like the one in the video), use chopsticks to cut the Okonomiyaki. Takoyaki, and Monjayaki are 2 popular foods in Japan similar to Okonomiyaki. The video shows viewers the entire process of making Okonomiyaki, from greasing the iron plate, to flattening the batter and adding ingredients such as sliced pork and cabbage. One of the most impressive scenes can be seen at 1:54, when the chef flips each Okonomiyaki one by one in quick succession. He's making 30 Okonomiyaki at once! Be sure to check out the video to see a detailed look at how Okonomiyaki are made. Japan's Popular Festival Stalls! Source :YouTube screenshot No festival is complete without getting some food at a local stall. And the taste of freshly made okonomiyaki from a stall is totally different from what you'd make at home. There are actually a lot of tourists who visit Japanese festivals just to enjoy different foods and see the amazing skills of the chefs. In this video, we showed you the craftsmanship of the Kansai-style and Hiroshima-style okonomiyaki attracting large crowds. This Okonomiyaki stalls are very popular and often attract large lines of people. Don't be surprised when you're not the only one excited to buy this delicious treat. Summary of Japan's Delicious Okonomiyaki Trying different food at festival stalls is an inseparable part of Japanese festival culture. There are a lot of different food stalls at Japan's festivals where you can see the professional skills of chefs. The amazing skills of Japan's Okonomiyaki chefs is a must-see! This video offers a new way to enjoy the festivals- watching the craftsmanship of japan's food stall chefs! If you want to see the craftsmanship behind Japan's food stall culture, or if you want to try the mouth-watering okonomiyaki for yourself, be sure to hit up one of Japan's festivals!