Edo Period Recipes: Video Introduction Source :YouTube screenshot This video, titled "[2] Edo Period Food: Making it Just Like the Original Recipe" (【2】江戸時代のご飯 原典(レシピ)通り作ってみた), was uploaded by "Gens Bookshelf Cafeteria." This video introduces Edo Period food recreated based on recipes from three cookbooks published during the Edo Period: Ryori Monogatari, Tofu Hyakuchin, and Meihan Burui. The Edo Period (1603-1868 A.D.) was a period of 260 years where Japan was under the rule of the Tokugawa Shogunate. The recipes are intriguing as they introduce meals that are similar to many found in present-day Japanese cooking, while reflecting the food culture of the time. Be sure to check out what the dishes were like in the video. How Many Meals a Day in Edo Period Japan? Shogun vs. Commoner Food Culture Photo：An oil lantern During the Edo Period, people generally ate two meals a day, one in the morning and one in the evening. However, midway through the Edo Period, it's said that three meals a day became the norm. This was due to the improvement of lanterns, which allowed people move about at night. Basic meals of the common people consisted of one soup and one vegetable dish. Side dishes consisted mostly of simmered vegetables and pickled vegetables, and fish was eaten only once every two weeks or so. The tenements where the common people of Edo lived were small and cramped housing complexes. Because of the cramped kitchens, rice was cooked only once a day to ensure efficient cooking. Farmers paid a large portion of their taxes as rice, so they had little rice to eat themselves. They often ate katemeshi, rice cooked with various grains, or mochi (rice cakes) made from various grains. The diet of a samurai varied according to rank. Low-ranking samurai had the same diet as common people, while high-ranking samurai ate a wider variety of food items and ingredients. Daimyo (feudal lords) and shogun enjoyed an even wider variety of side dishes, and some lords even enjoyed fish at every meal. Depending on their social status, they may also have enjoyed sake. Another characteristic of Edo Period food was that many people began to eat out. Food stalls selling tempura and soba (buckwheat noodles) slowly began to pop up and became common among the general populace. Other popular foods were kabayaki (grilled eel covered in a sweet soy sauce) and sushi. Together with soba and tempura, these are considered the four major foods of the Edo. 3 Edo Period Cookbooks – Cook Like They Did in the Age of the Samurai Source :YouTube screenshot Here are the three books on food in the Edo Period that were featured in the video. ●Ryori Monogatari (Tales of Cooking) Ryori Monogatari is a cookbook published in 1643, in the early Edo Period. It's considered to be the oldest cookbook in Japan that provides specific cooking methods. Dishes and ingredients are listed by category, such as "sea fish" and "river fish," and cooking methods are divided into "broths," "vinegared foods," etc. This method of compiling recipes influenced later cookbooks as well. ●Tofu Hyakuchin Tofu Hyakuchin is a cookbook published in 1782, in the mid-Edo Period. It lists 100 recipes for tofu. The book introduces dishes divided into six classes, including "common" and "exquisite," and describes the cooking processes in detail. The book also includes a note that a sequel was published the following year, which suggests that tofu was a popular ingredient among the people of the Edo Period. ●Meihan Burui Meihan Burui was published in 1802, in the late Edo Period. It's a cookbook specializing in recipes involving rice, and introduces more than 140 recipes for porridge, sushi, etc. It also includes columns on the characteristics of rice by production area, showing the high level of interest in cooking with rice during the Edo Period. Fish? Meat? Vegetables? What Did People in the Edo Period Eat the Most Of? Photo：Rice bran The basic diet during the Edo Period consisted of rice, miso soup, and one side dish. From the mid-Edo Period onward, as rice production increased and rice-polishing technology improved, diets shifted from brown rice to white rice. This had an impact on food culture as well, such as the spread of pickled vegetables made from the bran produced in the rice polishing process. Side dishes for the common people consisted mainly of beans and vegetables cooked in a stew. Natto (fermented soybeans) and tofu were also commonly eaten as a source of protein. Vegetables such as daikon, komatsuna (Japanese mustard spinach), and leeks were common, and these are eaten even today. Soy sauce, an essential ingredient for flavoring meals in the Edo Period, also spread to the common people in the mid-Edo Period. Many of the dishes in the book are also flavored simply with soy sauce or miso. ●Nebuka-jiru Nebuka-jiru is a miso soup with green onions. Make broth with kombu and dried sardines, and add leeks. Once cooked, miso is added and the soup is complete. [Video] 2:14 - Nebuka-jiru ●Ozasa Tofu Tofu is cooked on a skewer, then cooked in a pot with broth, soy sauce, and mirin. Beaten egg is then poured over the tofu and simmered, and then sprinkled with sansho (Japanese pepper). [Video] 3:00 - Ozasa Tofu ●Tofu Noodles Tofu crumbles and komatsuna are stir-fried, then mixed with boiled somen noodles. Season with soy sauce and serve. [Video] 4:11 - Tofu Noodles In the Edo Period diet, common people ate fish dishes only a few times a month. The common people ate inexpensive and easily obtainable fish, such as sardines and tuna. Shoguns or daimyo on the other hand, ate high-end fish such as sea bream (which were said to bring good luck), sillago, and flounder. Although eating meat was prohibited for many years, it was sometimes consumed for medicinal purposes. Summary of Food Culture in Edo Period Japan Source :YouTube screenshot In this article. we introduced a video recreating Edo Period food. By learning about meals during Edo Period Japan, you can better understand how people lived, the food culture, and the social dynamics of the time. Food is one of the many perspectives from which to understand the history of any given era. If you're curious about Japanese cooking, maybe try making some of the recipes yourself! We hope you can use this article as a reference to create some delicious dishes!

Autumn Foliage at Dazaifu Tenmangu Shrine and KamadoShrine: Video introduction Photo：Dazaifu Tenmangu Shrine, Fukuoka Prefecture This video, titled "Dazaifu Tenmangu Shrine, Mt. Hozan｜Hiking and Autumn Leaves at Kamado Shrine SONY a6500" (太宰府天満宮　Dazaifu tenmangu宝満山　登山　紅葉の竈門神社(かまど) SONY a6500), was uploaded by "Ishii Valley" (石井渓谷). The 4.5-minute video shows the beautiful autumn foliage found at Dazaifu Tenmangu Shrine and Kamado Shrine. The video provides a realistic feeling as if you were actually visiting Dazaifu Tenmangu Shrine and Kamado Shrine. Be sure to check out the beautiful autumn leaves in the video, especially around the 2-minute mark! How to Get To Homanzan Kamado Shrine From Dazaifu Tenmangu Shrine Photo：Kamado Shrine, Fukuoka Prefecture Dazaifu, located in Fukuoka Prefecture, in Japan's Kyushu region, is widely known for Dazaifu Tenmangu Shrine. However, if you visit in the fall, there's another spot that we highly recommend you visit in conjunction with Dazaifu Tenmangu Shrine. That is, Kamado Shrine. Dazaifu Tenmangu Shrine and Kamado Shrine are located very close to one another, so it's possible to visit both places in the same day. If you're going from Dazaifu Tenmangu Shrine, a 5-minute walk from Dazaifu Station, to Kamado Shrine, it will take you about 30 minutes on foot. If you use public transportation, the Mahoroba bus (まほろば号) is a convenient way to get to the shrine. Take the bus bound for Uchiyama (内山) from the bus stop Miyamae (宮前) (in front of the Sanjo 7-Eleven), and you will arrive at the last stop, Uchiyama (in front of the shrine), in about 7 minutes. Since there are not many buses, you may want to check the bus schedule in advance before visiting Dazaifu Tenmangu Shrine. On the approach to Dazaifu Tenmangu Shrine, you'll find a variety of snacks, such as umegae mochi, a specialty of Fukuoka, as well as Japanese sweets made from strawberries, and Mont Blanc. There is also a wide variety of restaurants in the area, and other stalls selling things like steamed buns. If you have time to spare, consider taking a break for lunch or a quick snack. Kamado Shrine and the Anime Demon Slayer + Popular Charms Photo：Mt. Homan, Fukuoka Prefecture Homanzan Kamado Shrine has seen an increase in the number of visitors to the shrine, due to the enormous popularity of Demon Slayer (Kimetsu no Yaiba). However, not many people know much about Kamado Shrine itself. Kamado Shrine is located at the foot of Mt. Homan, known as a sacred mountain of Dazaifu. Mt. Homan is the located in the northeast, an unlucky direction, and rituals were held here to protect Dazaifu and the nation, leading to the construction of the Shinto shrine on the site. The main deity is Tamayori-hime no Mikoto. This deity is known as a god of marriage because of her divine power to attract souls ("tama," in Japanese). In addition, the shrine is also blessed with the power to ward off bad luck and evil spirits. It's said that the shrine's popularity was sparked by the fact that the surname of Tanjiro Kamado, the main character of Demon Slayer, is the same as that of the Kamado Shrine. The shrine is said to have been named after Mt. Homan, the mountain on which it stands, because of its shape, which resembles a kamado (a type of traditional Japanese stove). As mentioned above, the fact that the shrine was built to ward off demons is also a point of interest to fans of Demon Slayer. One of the most popular spots at the shrine is the amulet office. The building was designed based on the concept of "a building that will continue to be loved even 100 years from now," with pink and white as its base color, creating a modern atmosphere. When the shrine office was rebuilt, world-renowned interior designer Masamichi Katayama participated in the project, and the benches and chairs on the observation terrace were designed by Jasper Morrison. Be sure to take a look at the stylish shrine office, as it's not something you'd expect to find at a Shinto shrine. One of the most popular spots at the shrine is the amulet office. The building was designed based on the concept of "a building that will continue to be loved even 100 years from now," with pink and white as its base color, creating a modern atmosphere. When the shrine office was rebuilt, world-renowned interior designer Masamichi Katayama participated in the project, and the benches and chairs on the observation terrace were designed by Jasper Morrison. Be sure to take a look at the stylish shrine office, as it's not something you'd expect to find at a Shinto shrine. As for good luck charms, or "omamori" (お守り) in Japanese, the most popular is the ichigo omamori (いちごお守り, strawberry charm). In the old days, the four-character idiom "Ichi-go ichi-e" (一期一会), a Japanese phrase used to describe once-in-a-lifetime encounters, was used to describe a marriage or an important match, and this amulet is a prayer for such precious encounters to come true. There are many other cute charms and amulets sold at the shrine besides the strawberry charm, so consider purchasing one to commemorate your visit to the shrine. Hiking Mt. Homan, a Popular Sacred Mountain in Dazaifu, Fukuoka Photo：A hiking trail on Mt. Homan, Fukuoka Prefecture Mt. Homan, located in Dazaifu City, is a sacred mountain that has been praised since ancient times as a mountain where the gods dwell. It's a very popular mountain among hikers, many of whom visit the mountain to climb it. There are several trails for hiking Mt. Homan, but the most popular is the standard trail starting from Kamado Shrine. After passing through the Ichino-torii (first shrine gate), you'll find a full-fledged trail with stone steps. The ascent will take about 2 hours, and the descent will be a little quicker, at around 1.5 hours. Although the trails on Mt. Homan are well maintained, there are some steep points, such as "Hyakudan Ganki" (100段ガンキ), a series of 100 steep steps. Please make sure you are fully prepared for the challenge when hiking up the mountain. A breathtaking panoramic view awaits you after you reach the summit. Enjoy the cherry blossoms in spring, autumn leaves in fall, and seasonal flowers along the trail as you climb the mountain. You can also pay a visit to the Jogu (the highest point of the shrine) of Kamado Shrine, which is located at the top. The Autumn Festival at Kamado Shrine and the Best Time to See the Autumn Leaves Photo：Autumn leaves at Kamado Shrine, Fukuoka Prefecture In autumn, Kamado Shrine is enveloped in a vibrant palette of colorful. The best time to view the autumn leaves at Kamado Shrine is usually from early November to early December, with the Autumn Leaves Festival being held at the end of November. The Autumn Leaves Festival usually attracts many visitors, with stalls selling freshly picked vegetables and refreshments, flea markets selling a variety of goods, and even stalls seasonal spirits. The best time to see the autumn leaves at the shrine is at night. The contrast between the blue skies, green trees, and the bright red autumn leaves is different from the atmosphere of the shrine at night, when the autumn leaves are illuminated. Be sure to enjoy the night view from the observatory. Things to Do Near Kamado Shrine Photo：Kyushu National Museum. Fukuoka Prefecture Despite Dazaifu and Kamado Shrine being located on the outskirts of Fukuoka City, there are a number of attractions to check out in the area. Kyushu National Museum Kyushu National Museum features an Entrance Hall with a variety of facilities, and also hosts special displays, concerts, and events. There is also a Special Exhibition Hall that hosts a number of special exhibitions, a Cultural Exchange Exhibition Hall featuring regularly rotation exhibits, and Interactive Exhibition Gallery where guests of all ages can learn about Japan and countries that Japan has interacted with throughout history. Don't forget to check out the Museum Shop for souvenirs! Hours: 9:30 am - 5: 00 pm (last entry 4:30 pm). 9:30 am - 8:00 pm (last entry 7:30 pm) on Fridays and Saturdays during special exhibitions. Closed: Mondays and public holidays. If Monday is a public holiday, the museum will open and the following day it will be closed. Admission Fee: Adults: 700 yen, University Students: 350 yen, High school students and younger: Free, Seniors (70+): Free, Persons with disabilities: Free Dazaifu Amusement Park For those traveling with kids, the Dazaifu Amusement Park is a great place to relax and have fun with a family. The park roller coasters, water coasters, merri-go-rounds, petting zoos, and all sorts of activities that families can enjoy together. Additionally, there are food areas where you can grab lunch, shops for buying gifts, and even nursing facilities that can be used freely, and stroller rentals available. Hours: (Weekdays) 10:30 am - 4:30 pm, (Weekends & Holidays) 10:00 am - 5:00 pm. Closed: No regular closures. Please check the official website for more information. Admission Fee: Admission only - Adults (Middle school students and older): 600 yen, Seniors (65+): 500 yen, Children (Ages 3 to Elementary school students): 400 yen. Free ride pass - Adults (Middle school students and older): 2,900 yen, Seniors (65+): 2,800 yen, Children (Ages 3 to Elementary school students): 2,700 yen. Nearby Onsen Also located nearby are a number of onsen (hot spring) facilities. If you're looking to relax after a day of traveling or just looking to enjoy a nice warm bath, be sure to look up some hot springs in the area when visiting. Summary of Kamado Shrine, Mt. Homan, Fukuoka Prefecture Photo：Autumn foliage illumination at Kamado Shrine, Fukuoka Prefecture, Japan Kamado Shrine is located at the foot of Mt. Homan. In autumn, when the approximately 300 maple trees change color, you can see a different view of the shrine than in other seasons. Kamado Shrine is enshrined at the foot of Mt. Homan, which is revered as a mountain where the gods dwell, and we recommend that you visit the shrine not only in autumn but also in other seasons, as it's a place rich in nature. Don't forget to stop by when visiting Dazaifu Tenmangu Shrine. Also, if you're planning to climb Mt. Homan, please make sure you are fully prepared with appropriate footwear and clothing, and enjoy the spectacular view from the top. The mountain is also dotted with historical sites, such as the Gohaku Rakan (500 arhats), so be sure to keep an eye out for them as you make you way up and down the mountain. 【TripAdvisor】Kamado Shrine

■Table of Contents Overnight Tours in Ogimi, Okinawa: Video Introduction Ogimi Village – One of the Three Yanbaru Villages in Northern Okinawa Ogimi Village, Known as the "Village of Longevity" Ogimi Village, the "Village of Bashofu" Ogimi Village, the "Village of Shikuwasa" Ogimi Village, the "Village of Bunagaya" Enjoy an Overnight Tour and Experience the Lifestyle of Yanbaru in Ogimi Village! 1 Night/2 Day Overnight Plan Recommendations 2-Day/1-Night Overnight Plan – Schedule & Experience Details 2-Day/1-Night Overnight Plan – Tour Details The Best Experience Plans in Yanbaru, Starting From 2 Hours! Ta Waterfall Trekking E-Bike Tour E-Bike Tours & Sabani Boat Cruises Cycling Tour Plan Canoe Tour Yanbaru Forest Starry Sky Tour Popular Spots When Sightseeing in Ogimi Village, Okinawa Kijoka Seven Waterfalls Ishiyama Observatory Roadside Station Ogimi Yanbaru Forest Visitor Center Ogimi Village Tour Plan Summary Overnight Tours to Enjoy Ogimi, Okinawa: Video Introduction The video introduced in this article begins with lighthearted cycling footage that showcases the great nature of Ogimi Village in Okinawa, Japan. It shows how you can experience the food and activities of Ogimi Village with a local guide, and enjoy the sound of a sanshin while camping under a starry night sky, and more! The contents of this video are a condensed version showcasing only a handful of things to do in Ogimi Village. With a tour to Ogimi Village, you can experience the culture and lifestyle of the people of Ogimi Village in a relaxed and casual manner. We hope you'll experience the wonderful time that these exciting tours can provide! Photo：Ogimi Village In this article, we'll introduce things to do in Ogimi Village, as well as some stay plans. After reading this article, you'll be captivated by Ogimi Village and will want to experience what life is like in this village in Northern Okinawa! Ogimi Village – One of the Three Yanbaru Villages in Northern Okinawa Ogimi Village, located in the northern part of Okinawa's main island in Kunigami, consists of 17 villages with a total population of 3,034 and a total of 1,716 households (as of March 2023). The village is about 64 square kilometers (15,800 acres) in size. Ogimi is approximately 87 km (54 mi.) from Naha City and can be accessed in about 2 hours via National Route 58 or about 1 hour and 30 minutes via expressway. Ogimi Village and the neighboring villages of Kunigami and Higashi are called the three villages of Yanbaru (Yanbaru means "the forested northern area of Okinawa"), which was recognized as a World Natural Heritage site in 2021, and is home to many endemic species that can only be seen here, such as the Okinawa rail and Okinawa woodpecker. Photo：The Okinawa rail Ogimi Village is also called the "Village of Longevity," "Village of Bashofu," "Village of Shikuwasa," and "Village of Bunagaya." Ogimi Village, Known as the "Village of Longevity" Ogimi Village is known as the village with the highest longevity in Japan, with a very high percentage of the total population aged 65 years or older (32.5%) as well as people who are 90 years old or older (4.2%), according to the 2015 census. ※The percentage of people over 90 years old in Japan as a whole is 1.6%. Photo：An elderly man in Ogimi Village In 1987, the area was declared the "Village of Longevity" as the area with the highest percentage of elderly people in Japan, and in 1996, it was recognized as the "World's Longest Living Region" by the World Health Organization (WHO). The book "IKIGAI," published in Spain in 2016 and covering the secrets of longevity in Ogimi Village, became an international bestseller, selling more than 5 million copies. The text of the book introduces the ideal life as "the sight of a grandfather or grandmother living a vibrant and rewarding life in Ogimi Village." The book has led to an increase in the number of foreign tourists visiting Ogimi Village and in the number of foreigners who know about Ogimi Village even if they don't know much about Japan. Ogimi Village, the "Village of Bashofu" In Kijoka, an area in Ogimi Village, Kijoka Bashofu, a cloth woven from the fibers of the plantain plant, has long been popular as a fabric for kimono. It's considered a fantastic type of cloth because of how thin and light it is, almost like the wings of a dragonfly. In Okinawa, a place with high humidity, this breathable, light-as-air fabric has been very useful. It takes about three years to grow to a height taller than a person, and each stalk of plantain yields only about 20 grams of fiber, so 200 stalks are needed to weave one roll of Bashofu cloth. Photo：The plantain plant The history of Bashofu dates back to the 13th century, and during the Ryukyu Dynasty (approximately 450 years from the 1400s to the 1800s), there was a position called "Basho Toushoku" (芭蕉当職, lit. "Bashofu Manager") who managed a Basho garden exclusively for the nobility so that they could wear high-quality Bashofu. During the Meiji period (1868-1912), plain or striped Bashofu began to be decorated with kasuri patterns, and developed into a craft. Bashofu was designated an Intangible Cultural Property of the prefecture in 1972, the year Okinawa was returned to Japan, and two years later, in 1974, it was designated an Intangible Cultural Property by the Japanese government. Ogimi Village, the "Village of Shikuwasa" Most of the shikuwasa (flat lemons) distributed in Japan are produced in Okinawa, with Ogimi Village accounting for approximately 60% of the total. Photo：Shikuwasa Shikuwasa is a food rich in nutrients and is considered one of the foods for health and longevity in Okinawa. The nobiletin contained in shikuwasa is said to have the following effects: ・Helps prevent rheumatism, osteoporosis, and cancer ・Lowers blood sugar and blood pressure ・Burns fat, strengthens liver function, improves urination, and improves cognitive function ・Helps relieve complications from urinary disorders, such as frequent urination and enuresis. ・Helps prevent diabetes The secret to Ogimi Village's longevity may be its shikuwasa. Shikuwasa is one of the most popular Furusato Nozei tax return gifts as well. If you're a resident of Japan, be sure to visit the Ogimi Village Furusato Nozei website (※Japanese). Ogimi Village, the "Village of Bunagaya" It's said that Bunagaya, spirits of the forest, live in Yanbaru, a rich natural environment that has been registered as a World Natural Heritage site. Photo：A Bunagaya forest spirit These mysterious bunagaya are said to love peace and nature, and use nature's bounty to show us what they look like. Since World War II, due to the modernization of postwar reconstruction, it's said that they can only be seen in Ogimi Village. Bunagaya live amongst banyan trees and are said to have red hair and are covered with grass and trees. In 1998, Ogimi Village was declared the "Village of Bunagaya" to commemorate the 100th anniversary of Ogimi Village's establishment. Life in Ogimi Village is full of charms, from its longevity, traditional culture, and unique food, to its ancient legends. Overnight tours to Ogimi Village are growing in popularity as a way to experience the secrets of longevity while interacting with local people. Enjoy an Overnight Tour and Experience the Lifestyle of Yanbaru in Ogimi Village! Overnight tours to Ogimi Village are trips to enjoy the nature, food, culture, and history that Ogimi Village has been carefully cultivated throughout the years. This plan allows you to experience the history and culture of Ogimi Village and its people, who live a happy and joyful life in the great outdoors, and to enjoy activities such as cycling, canoeing, trekking, BBQ camping, and a home-stay accommodation, allowing you to choose how you experience Ogimi Village. A basic tour plan is provided, but customers can also consult with the tour guide in advance about a plan that suits them and what they would like to experience. You can choose between private accommodations or camping, and also choose from a variety of exciting activities. There are also experience plans that allow you to fully enjoy Ogimi Village in a short time (2 hours to half a day), so those who cannot stay overnight can also take advantage of these plans. Those who choose the overnight plan can choose to camp overnight at the Miyagi Community Center Plaza, or stay overnight in a home with elderly residents. Those who choose to stay at a private home can experience harvesting in the fields managed by the private home as a member of the family (depending on the season), and enjoy chatting over Okinawan dishes prepared together with the private home owner while learning from him or her. You can see what a meal is like at 0:56 in the video. ※Be sure to consult with the staff in advance if you are a vegan or allergic to any foods. Photo：Homestay Farm Life Experience Tour This Ogimi Village overnight plan is a popular tour among students from all over Japan who are on school trips. There are agricultural experiences to learn the challenges of farming, farm life experiences where you stay in a farmer's home and spend time as a member of the family, nature experiences that make the most of Ogimi Village's natural environment, and cultural experiences where you are taught how to make Okinawan cuisine and play the sanshin (an instrument similar to a banjo). The days spent experiencing the environment, customs, and culture of Ogimi Village and interacting with the elderly residents of the village are a great asset to the students. There are also school trips and educational trips that can accommodate up to 280 people at a time, which are also utilized by the general public. Families with children can enjoy learning during summer vacation, and friends can experience the traditions of Ogimi Village while camping under the starry skies! There are a million ways to enjoy Ogimi Village. One of the charms of the overnight tours is that they not only follow a fixed plan, but can also be tailored to fit your ideal plan through prior consultation. 1 Night/2 Day Overnight Plan Recommendations This plan lets you enjoy canoeing and trekking in the jungle-like subtropical forests and rivers of Yanbaru. You can also look for endemic species of creatures and plants that can only be found in Yanbaru. Outdoor activities will be accompanied by local guides, so you can also learn things that only the locals know about! ※Optional plans must be requested separately. Photo：Yanbaru In the evening, enjoy a barbecue using local ingredients with your host grandmother and grandfather. Enjoy singing and chatting around the campfire while listening to the sound of the sanshin with your host family. Before bedtime, enjoy the grandeur of nature while gazing up at the starry night sky over Yanbaru! 2-Day/1-Night Overnight Plan – Schedule & Experience Details Here is an example of the schedule and activities of the basic plan for the 2-Day/1-Night Overnight Plan in Ogimi Village. ※This is an introduction to the camping plan. ■Day 1: 1:00 p.m. - 11:00 p.m. (Tour base: Miyagi Community Center Plaza and Shioya Bay) [1:00 p.m.] ・Gather at Shioya Miyagi Community Center Plaza ・Self-introductions and explanation of the tour by the staff ・Camp preparations (tent setup, etc.) Photo：Setting up camp [2:00 p.m.] ・Tour around the villages by e-bike with staff guide (choose from Kijoka or Shioya villages) Photo：E-bike village tour [5:00 p.m.] ・Free time after returning to Miyagi Community Center Plaza [6:00 p.m.] ・Start preparing a BBQ dinner made with local ingredients - Enjoy the delicious flavors of Yanbaru with outdoor camping utensils and offal soup. ・Dinner with a view of the sunset ・Enjoy chatting with locals while listening to the sound of the sanshin and watching kachasi (traditional Okinawan dance) ・Stargazing with commentary by a starry sky sommelier who is well versed in the night sky above Yanbaru ※You can see what camping is like at 01:25 in the video. Photo：Camping at night [11:00 p.m.] ・Bedtime prep ■Day 2: 9:00 a.m. - 11:00 a.m. [8:30 a.m.] ・Wake up ・Prepare breakfast ・Camp equipment clean up [10:00 a.m.] ・Miyagi Community Center beach cleanup (SDGs) [11:00 a.m.] ・End of tour In the afternoon, you can apply for various experience plans. ※The above is the schedule for the basic model plan, so you can choose the plan that best suits your preferences by consulting with the tour guide in advance. ※If you wish to stay overnight, please specify this in the inquiry details when you apply. Multiple night stays are available as well. For inquiries about tour plans, please contact the guide through the application and inquiry form on the official website. Yonna-Ogimi【Official Website】 2-Day/1-Night Overnight Plan – Tour Details Here, we'll provide you with the details of Ogimi Village's 2-Day/1-Night Overnight Plan tour price and duration. [Price] 2 persons・・・43,500 yen (tax included・per person) 3 persons・・・43,000 yen (tax included・per person) 4 persons・・・40,000 yen (tax included・per person) 5 persons・・・40,500 yen (tax included・per person) ※Transportation to the meeting place (airfare, rental car, bus, etc.), drinks, alcohol, etc. are charged separately. For those who choose to stay at a private residence, drinks and alcohol may be provided by the private residence. Optional experience plans require a separate application. Please refer to the bottom of this article for details regarding the experience plans. [Tour Period] February - November (※Tours are not available in December and January). [Group Sizes] 2-5 people Tents are limited to up to 5 tents, each of which accommodates 5 people (up to 25 people). ※The number of people who can stay in one house is limited, so large groups may be divided into several houses. [Meeting Place] Meeting place: Roadside Station Ogimi Yanbaru Forest Visitor Center Address: 95 Tsunami, Ogimi Village, Kunigami District, Okinawa Prefecture [Clothing] We recommend that you bring clothes and shoes that can get wet and are easy to move around in for the different activities you might take part in. [What to Bring] Drinks, towel, toiletries, sandals, overnight amenities The Best Experience Plans in Yanbaru, Starting From 2 Hours! These experience plans allow those who cannot stay overnight but want to enjoy Ogimi Village to fully enjoy Ogimi Village in a short time (2 hours to half a day), or they can be incorporated into a 2-day/1-night plan. Choose the activities that are right for you and experience Ogimi Village to the fullest! Ta Waterfall Trekking & Playing Around the Basin [Tour Outline] Enjoy trekking at Ta Waterfall, located in the upper reaches of the Heinan River where tropical and subtropical plants grow. You can also play in the waterfall basin of the mysterious 15-meter-tall waterfall. Enjoy the nature of Ogimi Village, experience the sounds and smell of the forest and the earth, and listen to the singing birds while the trees dance in the wind. You may even come across flora and fauna that can only be found in Yanbaru. ※Life jackets must be worn when playing in the waterfall basin. You can see the what trekking is like at 0:43 in the video. Photo：Ta Waterfall trekking [Price] 7,000 yen/person [Time Required] 2 hours [Group Sizes] 2-20 people [Tour Period] January, February, March, July, August, September [Relaxed Stay With a Local Guide] Ogimi Village/Kijoka Village: The Key to Longevity on an E-Bike Tour [Tour Outline] This is a cycling tour around the world's longest-lived region. A local guide will accompany you on the tour, so you will be guided to places of interest that only locals know about, which you wouldn't be able to see on a regular tour. Cyclists who aren't confident in their physical abilities will be able to use e-bikes (sports-type bicycles with electric power assistance) for the tour. Learn the secrets to longevity in Kijoka village! This plan is included in the basic plan of the 2-day/1-night tour. You can see the cycling from 0:12 in the video. Photo：E-bike tour [Price] 6,000 yen/person [Time Required] 3 hours [Group Sizes] 2-6 people [Tour Period] Year-round (closed during the year-end and New Year holidays from December 29 to January 4) Tour From a Local Guide and Shipbuilder! Shioya Bay E-Bike Tour to Discover the Traditional Event "Ungami" & Sabani Boat Cruises [Tour Outline] On the first day of the Boar after the Kyu-Bon (Old Bon) Festival (September 2, 2023), Shioya Bay will host "Ungami," a traditional event to pray for a good harvest and good health. The men of the village row a haarii boat (a traditional Okinawan dragon boat) to the goal in Shioya Bay. The women, waist-deep in the sea, cheer enthusiastically while beating drums and welcoming the competitors with songs and dances. Ungami, held in Shioya Bay, is designated as an Important Intangible Folk Cultural Property by the government of Japan, and is a festival that has continued for more than 400 years without change. Visitors can explore the spirituality and mystique of the festival by e-biking around the area where Ungami is held. You can also cruise the clear blue waters of Shioya Bay on a Sabani (a boat used in Okinawa and surrounding islands since ancient times). Photo：Ungami [Price] 9,000 yen/person (※Minimum of 2 people) [Time Required] 3 hours [Group Sizes] 2-6 People [Tour Period] Year-round (closed during the year-end and New Year holidays from December 29 to January 4) [Yanbaru World Natural Heritage Site] A Cycling Tour Around the Area Where the Traditional Event Ungami Is Held [Tour Outline] Cycling through the traditional area where Ungami is held, you can explore the spirituality and mystique of the area. Guided by local guides, the tour will take you along paths known only by the members of the community. Photo：Cycling around the village [Price] 6,000 yen/person [Time Required] 2 hours [Group Sizes] 2-20 people [Tour Period] January, February, March, July, August, September Canoe Trip Around Miyagi Island [Tour Outline] Travel around the small island in Ogimi Village's Shioya Bay by canoe. This is a rare experience with which to explore Ogimi Village, the Village of Longevity, from the open sea! A local guide will take you around, so first-timers need not worry. You can see the canoe tours at 01:10 in the video. Photo：A canoe tour [Price] 7,000 yen/person (Tax included) [Time Required] 2 hours [Group Sizes] 2-20 people [Tour Period] January, February, March, July, August, September The Best Place to See the Southern Cross! Yanbaru Forest Starry Sky Tour With a Local Guide [Tour Outline] Local guides, who are certified starry sky sommeliers, will provide commentary that will allow you to enjoy the starry sky of Yanbaru, which stretches as far as the eye can see. Binoculars and telescopes are provided, so you can enjoy a real starry sky tour without any equipment. Okinawa is the only place in Japan where the Southern Cross can be seen, and this beautiful starry sky keeps watch over the residents of Ogimi Village. ※This plan is included in the basic 2-day/1-night tour plan. You can see the starry skies of Yanbaru at 01:51 in the video. Photo：The starry sky above Yanbaru [Price] 6,000 yen/person [Time Required] 2 hours [Group Sizes] 2-6 People [Tour Period] Year-round (closed during the year-end and New Year holidays from December 29 to January 4) Guided tours to activities and sights not listed above are also available by consultation. For inquiries about tour plans, please inquire using the application and inquiry form on the official website of Yonna-Ogimi. Yonna-Ogimi【Official Website】 Popular Spots When Sightseeing in Ogimi Village, Okinawa There are a ton of places to check out when visiting Ogimi Village! From famous sightseeing spots to spots hidden gems, Ogimi Village is full of scenery that will make for lifelong memories. Kijoka Seven Waterfalls The Kijoka Seven Waterfalls is a popular power spot in the Kijoka area. It's called "Seven Waterfalls" because the water changes its course seven times before cascading down into the basin. Since it's an object of worship for the local people, there is a sacred torii gate at the entrance to the waterfall and a place of worship to view the waterfall from. The clear water is sold as the mineral water "Okinawa no Meisui, Nanataki no Mizu" (沖縄の命水　七滝の水, Life Water of Okinawa, Water of the Seven Falls). Photo：Kijoka Seven Waterfalls General Information 【Address】2234, Kinyuka, Ogimi-mura, Kunigami-gun, Okinawa, Japan 【Access】Approximately 1 hour and 10 minutes from the Kusuda IC on the Okinawa Expressway. 【Parking】Available Ishiyama Observatory The Ishiyama Observatory is located at the top of Mt. Ishiyama in Ogimi Village. The forests and villages of Yanbaru lie below, and the blue waters of the East China Sea and the Pacific Ocean can be seen beyond. A large parking lot is available as well, so feel free to drop by with a rental car or other vehicles. Photo：Ishiyama Observatory General Information 【Address】2268-1 Nejime, Ogimi-mura, Kunigami-gun, Okinawa Prefecture 【Access】Approximately 40 minutes from the Kusuda IC on the Okinawa Expressway 【Parking】30 cars Roadside Station Ogimi Yanbaru Forest Visitor Center Opened in 2020, Roadside Station Ogimi has a shop selling vegetables, meat, fish, and other specialties of Ogimi Village and northern Okinawa, as well as Restaurant Yanbaru Seaside, so you can enjoy lunch or a café and buy some souvenirs from Ogimi Village. At the 360° Dome Theater, visitors can learn about the flora and fauna of Yanbaru and life in Yanbaru through images. The top of the building is an observatory where you can view the beautiful sea. Photo：Roadside Station Ogimi Yanbaru Forest Visitor Center General Information 【Address】95 Aza-tsunami, Ogimi-mura, Kunigami-gun, Okinawa Prefecture 【Access】Approximately 40 minutes from the Kusuda IC on the Okinawa Expressway 【Parking】Oversized vehicles: 9 cars, regular vehicles: 109 cars 【Business hours】 Direct sales counter: 9:30 a.m. - 6:30 p.m. Restaurants: 11:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. weekdays, 11:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. weekends and holidays Tourist Information Center: 9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. Ogimi Village Tour Plan Summary Ogimi Village has been recognized as the "World's Longest Living Region." What is the secret behind its longevity? What is the "Ikigai" that captivates people from around the world? The Ogimi Village tours introduced in this article offer experiences that you won't find when traveling in Okinawa normally. Sightseeing at major tourist attractions in Okinawa and staying at a resort hotel is sure to make for a great trip, but, if you're looking to get to know the people of Okinawa and the culture and history of Okinawa, then a stay in Ogimi Village is the best way to do so. Learning about the culture, history, and daily life of Ogimi Village through a tour, you might start to understand why Ogimi Village is known as the "Village of Longevity." It'd be no exaggeration to say that this trip could change your outlook on life. The local staff is looking forward to welcoming you! Photo：Ogimi Village, Okinawa For more information about the Ogimi Village tour plans introduced in this article, or if you have any questions, concerns, or would like to apply, be sure to inquire via the application and inquiry form on the Yonna-Ogimi official website. 【Official Website】Yonna-Ogimi The COOL JAPAN VIDEOS social media account for the Ogimi Marugoto Tourism Association, where you can apply for Ogimi Village tour plans is as follows: For the latest information on Ogimi Village, check out these posts. 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HANAZONO ZIPFLIGHT, Niseko, Hokkaido: Video Introduction Photo：Mt. Yotei from the summit of Niseko Annupuri, Niseko, Hokkaido This video, titled "Hanazono Zip World Experience - Climax! Japan's longest Mega-zipline, Zip3 Black Diamond Superfly Ver." (Hanazono Zip Worldを体験 ~クライマックス！ 日本最長のメガジップライン、Zip3 Black Diamond Superfly編 ~), was uploaded by "Niseko Hanazono Resort" (Hanazono Niseko Resort ニセコ HANAZONOリゾート). At HANAZONO ZIPFLIGHT at the Niseko Hanazono Resort in Hokkaido, visitors can experience one of the longest ziplines in the world. Ziplining is an outdoor activity in which a belt or harness is attached to a cable that is suspended in the mountains, forests, or other natural areas, and a pulley is used to glide down the rope/cable. This video shows a thrilling zipline in Niseko, the 1,700-meter-long Black Diamond Superfly that runs from the heights of the mountain to the finish line on the ground with a top speed of 110 km/h. The zipline is one of the many exciting things to do in Niseko. While soaring through the skies, visitors can enjoy the spectacular views of Mt. Yotei. Summer & Winter at Niseko Hanazono Resort Photo：Snowshoes Located in the western part of central Hokkaido, approximately two hours by car from Sapporo and New Chitose Airport, Niseko is a resort area surrounded by Mt. Yotei, Niseko Annupuri, and other mountains. Known as a world-famous ski resort, it attracts many tourists and sports enthusiasts during ski season. Niseko Hanazono Resort boasts a wide range of winter activities that allow guests to enjoy the powdery snow of Niseko. ● Snow rafting tours ● Snowshoeing tours ● Horseback riding tours in the snow ● Tubing Park ● Indoor Kids Adventure Area - Galaxy of Kidz But winter season is not the only time to enjoy activities in Niseko. There are a variety of things to do at Niseko Hanazono Resort during the summer months. One of the most popular activities is HANAZONO ZIPFLIGHT, the popular Niseko Zipline. The following is an introduction to the features and attractions of the famous Niseko Zipline, HANAZONO ZIPFLIGHT. HANAZONO ZIPFLIGHT – Experience 3 Different Ziplines at the Largest Zipline in Japan Source :YouTube screenshot HANAZONO ZIPFLIGHT, widely known as the Niseko Zipline, is most notable for its length: HANAZONO ZIPFLIGHT is the longest zipline in Japan at 2,591 meters long. Not only is it the longest zipline in Japan, but it's also the longest zipline in Asia and one of the largest ziplines in the world. HANAZONO ZIPFLIGHT, widely known as the Niseko Zipline, has three ziplines: MACH1, MACH2, and MACH3, all of which have different a different level of intensity. It's recommended that you start with MACH1, which is less intense and has a gentle gradient, and then aim for MACH3, which is the most intense of the three. MACH1, the least intense, reaches speeds of 50 km/h, while MACH2 reaches speeds of about 70 km/h. MACH3, known as the "Black Diamond Superfly," reaches speeds of up to 110 km/h over a 1,700-meter-long course. Flying through the mountains and trees of Niseko, suspended 50 meters in the air, is a truly exciting experience. One of the things that makes the zipline so fun is that two ziplines are strung side by side, allowing visitors to experience it together with their family or friends. HANAZONO ZIPFLIGHT – Prices, Discounts, and Reservations Source :YouTube screenshot HANAZONO ZIPFLIGHT, also known as the Niseko Zipline, offers the following prices, reservation methods, and various discounts (current as of June 2023). Online reservations are given priority, and a 10% discount is also applied, so it's recommended that you book online in advance to apply for the zip line. Admission Fee: From June 10 - Adults: 15,000 yen, Children: 12,000 yen (Adults: Junior high school students and older / weighing 105 kg or less, Children: Elementary school students / weighing 30-105 kg) April 29 - May 28 - Adults and Children: 9,800 yen Reservations: Online reservations have priority Discounts: ● Web Discount - Online reservations receive 10% off the regular price ● Repeater Discount - 20% off on any of your following visits during summer 2023. ● HOKKAIDO LOVE! Discount: 2000 yen off on weekdays and 1000 yen off on holidays with Hokkaido Support Coupon (ほっかいどう応援クーポン). Niseko Ziplines – What to Wear Photo：A woman wearing a rain coat The Niseko Zipline can be enjoyed in comfortable, everyday clothing, but skirts are not permitted. We recommend wearing clothes that are easy to move in and that you do not mind getting dirty. Since you will be walking on unpaved terrain, heels and sandals are not permitted, and sneakers or other comfortable walking shoes are recommended. Helmets are required on the Niseko Zipline, so if you have long hair, tie it up with a hair band in advance. If you're thinking about riding the Niseko Zipline on a rainy day, we recommend wearing a waterproof windbreaker or rain jacket. This will protect you from rainwater and provide a comfortable aerial experience. That being said, in the event of inclement weather, some activities may not take place or the number of active ziplines may change. Please check the weather forecast in advance. A Luxury Hotel in Hanazono Photo：Sunrise from Mt. Yotei, Hokkaido After a day of physical activities in the comfortable nature of Hokkaido and enjoying the Niseko Zipline, a hotel with a spa is the perfect place to relax and unwind. Park Hyatt Niseko Hanazono, located within Niseko Hanazono Resort, offers a superb view of Mt. Yotei, as well as exquisite cuisine, and a spacious, luxurious environment to relax after a long day of travel. With outstanding reviews Park Hyatt Niseko Hanazono is a recommended hotel for those looking for a luxurious resort for adults. Other Things to Do in Niseko Photo：Oyunuma Pond, Niseko, Hokkaido Niseko is a popular destination in Hokkaido full of exciting outdoor activities to enjoy. Onsen Niseko is quite popular for its onsen (hot springs), and there are a number of locations in the Niseko area where you can enjoy relaxing in onsen all year round. Cycling Thanks to the beautiful scenery of Hokkaido, cycling is another popular activity in Niseko. The area boasts an endless number of breathtaking views with which to cycle to, and there are even cycling events, such as the Niseko Classic, held in the area each year. Camping Another exciting outdoor activity to enjoy in Niseko is camping. Again, making great use of the natural beauty of Hokkaido, there are a countless campgrounds available to choose from. You can choose a campground where you bring your own tent, or even one where the accommodations are provided. There are also free campsites as well, if you're looking to go camping on a budget. How to Get to Niseko Photo：Niseko Station, Hokkaido Access to Niseko will depend on where in Japan you're coming from. With that said, assuming you're already in Hokkaido, here are 3 ways to get to Niseko. Sapporo to Niseko From Sapporo Station, you can either take a bus to Otaru and then transfer to a bus which will take you to Niseko, or take a bus straight to Niseko (~3 hours). Hakodate to Niseko From Hakodate you can take a limited express train to Oshamambe Station, and from there transfer to a local line to Niseko Station (~4 hours). New Chitose Airport to Niseko From New Chitose Airport you can take the train to Sapporo Station, and from there to Otaru Station. From Otaru Station you can then take a bus to Niseko Station (~3.5 hours). Alternatively, you could take a bus from Sapporo Station to Niseko Station. Keep in mind that, if you're coming by car, you can significantly cut your travel time. Additionally, because the Niseko area is so vast, there are two main stations in the area: Niseko Station and Kutchan Station. Depending on where in Niseko you'll be sightseeing, the station you travel to can vary as well. Be sure to keep this in mind, as you can end up saving a lot of time by going to the station closest to your destination. Summary of HANAZONO ZIP WORLD, Home to the Largest Zipline in Japan Source :YouTube screenshot HANAZONO ZIPFLIGHT, one of the world's largest mega-ziplines, is a must-try activity when visiting Hokkaido. The thrill and excitement conveyed in the video, as well as the beautiful scenery, is sure to make for an unforgettable experience. We hope you get a chance to enjoy this aerial adventure in Niseko. 【Official Website】HANAZONO ZIPFLIGHT 【TripAdvisor】Niseko Hanazono Resort

Nagasaki Kunchi, an Autumn Festival of Suwa Shrine: Video Introduction Photo：A float at Nagasaki Kunchi, Nagasaki City, Nagasaki Prefecture This video, titled "【8K UHD】Nagasaki-Kunchi Festival 8K (2018)" (【8K UHD】Nagasaki-Kunci Festival 8K / 長崎くんち（2018）), was uploaded by "8K Video Album." Nagasaki Kunchi, an autumn festival of Suwa Shrine in Nagasaki City, Nagasaki Prefecture, located in Japan's Kyushu Region, is a traditional event that has been held for more than 380 years since the Edo period (1603-1868). For three days from October 7 every year, the town of Nagasaki is full of festivities! A number of unique dances are performed, gathering large audiences. Be sure to check out the video to see the dances at Nagasaki Kunchi and tourist attractions in the area, which attract crowds of people to Nagasaki each year. The History of Nagasaki Kunchi and Dances During the Festival Photo：A dragon dance at Nagasaki Kunchi, Nagasaki City, Nagasaki Prefecture Nagasaki Kunchi is an autumn festival of Suwa Shrine in Nagasaki City, Nagasaki Prefecture, held for three days from October 7 to October 9 each year. It's said that the festival began in 1634 when two women dedicated song and dance to the god of Suwa Shrine. For more than 380 years since then, these dances have been handed down by shrine parishioners of Nagasaki, and has been designated an Important Intangible Folk Cultural Property by the government of Japan. The 58 towns in Nagasaki are divided into 7 groups, with each group dedicating a dance once every 7 years, and each town having their own unique performance. The festival features many attractions, including Japanese dance to the accompaniment of nagauta (traditional Japanese music played on the shamisen), dragon dances to the sound of exotic musical instruments, and powerful floats and bearers! The festival becomes even more exciting as the audience cheers in response to the various performances. Where to See the 2023 Nagasaki Kunchi Dance Performances Photo：A dragon dance at Nagasaki Kunchi, Nagasaki City, Nagasaki Prefecture The 2023 Nagasaki Kunchi event will be held in Nagasaki City, Nagasaki Prefecture, for three days from October 7 to 9, 2023. The dances and portable shrine procession were canceled for three years starting in 2020 due to the global pandemic, but the festival is finally back in 2023 and is expected to be even more exciting than usual! In 2023, just like previous years, there will be a number of dances and performances. For these, paid spectator seats will be set up at Suwa Shrine, Yasaka Shrine, the Otabisho, and the Central Park Kunchi viewing area. The performances can also be seen at the Niwasaki Mawari (dances performed for homes, businesses etc. to share good fortune) in the town center. Around the end of September, a map/schedule with the schedule of the Niwasaki Mawari will be distributed at various locations in the city. "Kokkodesho," a Highlight of Nagasaki Kunchi Photo：Kokkodesho at Nagasaki Kunchi, Nagasaki City, Nagasaki Prefecture Nagasaki Kunchi, an Important Intangible Folk Cultural Property designated as such by the government of Japan, features a number of performances, including "Kokkodesho." The following is an introduction to the performance. ●Kokkodesho "Kokkodesho" is a dynamic performance in which 36 performers carry a 1-ton palanquin, which 4 drummers ride on, vigorously throwing it into the air and catch it with one arm each. [Video] 5:32 - Kokkodesho ●Kujira no Shiofuki "Kujira no Shiofuki" is a performances based on whaling that occurred in the past. The whale-shaped float spews water 4 to 5 meters into the air and wildly rampages around. On the 9th, a whale (fake) caught in a net will be shown. ●Oranda Manzai "Oranda Manzai" is a votive dance in which performers dressed as Dutch men, and other performers with drums and dressed in yellow, dance to the accompaniment of "Minshingaku" (Ming and Qing period music popularized in Japan). ●Goshuinsen "Goshuinsen" is a votive dance based on the theme of the wedding of Araki Sotaro, a Nagasaki merchant, and a Vietnamese princess. The audience is mesmerized by the float atop which noh musicians ride. ●Hon Odori "Hon Odori" is short for "Honcho no Odori" meaning "The dance of our country," and refers to a traditional Japanese dance. The dance is performed on various themes to the accompaniment of nagauta. [Video] 3:27 - Hon Odori ●Ryu Odori "Ryu Odori" (lit "Dragon Dance") is a typical Nagasaki Kunchi votive dance performed by four towns. The dragon dancers manipulate the dragon as if it were alive and dance to the unique music played on gongs, drums, trumpets, and other musical instruments. The dynamic floats and carriers, which can only be seen once every seven years, fascinate people every year. Food During Nagasaki Kunchi Photo：An okonomiyaki stall In the past, Nagasaki Kunchi had a unique type of cuisine called "Kunchi Ryori" (Kunchi Cuisine). Kunchi Ryori includes "azuki gohan" (red bean rice), "zakuro namasu" (a vegetable dish with pomegranate seeds), amazake (sweet sake), and other traditional dishes. During the festival period, many people make these dishes at home to celebrate the festival. While you're unlikely to find them at the festival, you can still enjoy a variety of Japanese festival foods. Like most Japanese festivals, there will be a number of food stalls open where festivalgoers can purchase snacks like okonomiyaki, yakitori, candied applies, parfaits, and more. Be sure to pick up some delicious snacks when you visit! How to Get There Photo：Suwa Shrine, Nagasaki Prefecture There are several venues where Nagasaki Kunchi will take place. Below, we'll introduce how to get to each location. Suwa Shrine From Nagasaki Station, take the streetcar to Suwa Shrine (~10 mins), or walk from Nagasaki Station (~20 mins). Yasaka Shrine Take the streetcar bound for Sofukuji Temple and get off at Sofukuji Temple (~7 mins). From there, it's a short walk to Yasaka Shrine. Otabisho Take the streetcar bound for Sofukuji Temple and get off at Ohato Station (~7 mins), or walk from Nagasaki Station (~12 mins). Central Park Take the streetcar bound for Sofukuji Temple and get off at Meganebashi Bridge (~6 mins), or walk to Central Park from Nagasaki Station (~15 mins). Summary of Nagasaki Kunchi Photo：A dragon dance at Nagasaki Kunchi, Nagasaki City, Nagasaki Prefecture Nagasaki Kunchi, an autumn festival held at Suwa Shrine, begins on June 1. Caretakers and performers of the various towns involved pray for the safe completion of their major roles by undergoing purification before the deities of Suwa Shrine and Yasaka Shrine, and begin rehearsals for their performances. In 2023, the festival will be held for the first time in four years. There will be many locals as well as tourists from all over Japan and abroad looking forward to the event! If you have the chance to visit Nagasaki during the event, be sure to join in the festivities! 【Official Website】Nagasaki Kunchi｜Nagasaki Traditional Performing Arts Promotion Association 【TripAdvisor】Nagasaki Kunchi

■Table of Contents Introducing the Toki Liner Pass – Enjoy Travel in Niigata Prefecture at a Discount! The Toki Liner – A Highway Bus in Niigata Prefecture What Is the Toki Liner Pass? Toki Liner Pass Ticket Types (Prices) How to Purchase Tickets – Introducing the 'RYDE PASS' App How to Use RYDE PASS Enjoy Travel in Niigata With the Toki Liner Pass Things to Do in Niigata With the Toki Liner Pass Things to Do in the Kaetsu Area of Niigata (Northern Niigata) Things to Do in the Chuetsu Area of Niigata (Central Niigata) Things to Do in the Joetsu Area of Takada-Naoetsu Autumn Seafood Delicacies in Niigata Things to Do and Where to Eat With the Toki Liner Pass Secondary Transportation Services With the Toki Liner Pass Things to Do and Local Dining Services Available With the Toki Liner Pass Enjoy Travel in Niigata With This Affordable Highway Bus Ticket! Introducing the Toki Liner Pass – Enjoy Travel in Niigata Prefecture at a Discount! Photo：The Toki Liner Pass Highway buses are a great way to enjoy sightseeing in Niigata Prefecture! Avoid the fatigue of driving and trains! You can also enjoy a glass of delicious Niigata sake together with tasty Niigata specialties... Enjoy an affordable and exciting adventure in Niigata made possible by the Toki Liner. The Toki Liner Pass allows unlimited rides on designated highway buses in Niigata Prefecture for an entire day. In this article, we'll provide information about the Toki Liner Pass, as well as information on things to do during autumn in Niigata using the Toki Liner Pass! Without further ado, let's take a look at the Toki Liner Pass and how much it can save you! The Toki Liner – A Highway Bus in Niigata Prefecture Photo：The Toki Liner, a highway bus in Niigata Prefecture The Toki Liner is a highway bus service connecting major cities in Niigata Prefecture. It's a highway bus service that was started in April 2022 by five highway bus operators in Niigata Prefecture (Niigata Kotsu, Echigo Kotsu, Kubiki Jidosha, Niigata Kotsu Kankou Bus, Kanbara Tetsudo, and I.K ALLIANCE) on eight routes in the prefecture (Nagaoka Line, Kashiwazaki Line, Tokamachi Line, Gosen Muramatsu Line, Joetsu Line, Itoigawa Line, Higashisanjo Line, and Tsubame Line), and has been attracting attention as a new way to do travel in Niigata, in addition to cars, trains, and other means of transportation. The Toki Liner doesn't require reservations, and IC cards can be used to board the buses. Additionally, since you can rest assured that you will always have a seat, all buses are equipped with free Wi-Fi, making long-distance travel more comfortable. Furthermore, a bus location system is used on all routes, allowing passengers to check in where the bus is at any given time, in real time. Moreover, "Park & Ride" is a service in which passengers can park their cars in parking lots located next to the bus stops and use the highway buses. What Is the Toki Liner Pass? Source :Toki Liner Pass (PDF) The Toki Liner Pass introduced here is a one-day pass for unlimited rides on designated express bus routes within the prefecture on Saturdays, Sundays, and holidays. There are two types of passes, a 2,500 yen pass and a 1,500 yen pass, and the routes vary depending on which pass you choose. This allows you to choose that pass that best fits your budget and itinerary. The pass can also be purchased on the same day you visit Niigata, so you can travel around without having to make a reservation! The Toki Liner Pass can be purchased via an app and includes special discount tickets (sightseeing, secondary transportation, dining) along with the bus tickets. Be sure to read on for more information regarding special tickets. The tickets can be used from Saturday, July 15, 2023 to Saturday, November 18, 2023. Toki Liner Ticket Types (Prices) Photo：The Toki Liner Pass highway bus unlimited ride area [1,500 yen Pass] ・The 1,500 yen pass allows unlimited rides on a course between Niigata and Nagaoka. [Unlimited Ride Area & Bus Stops] ・Niigata ・Gosen Muramatsu ・Higashisanjo ・Nagaoka The 1500 yen Toki Liner Pass allows unlimited rides for one day within the designated area above. Discount tickets are available with the 1500 yen Toki Liner Pass. [2,500 yen Pass] ・The 1,500 yen pass allows unlimited rides on a course between Niigata and Joetsu. [Unlimited Ride Area & Bus Stops] ・Niigata ・Gosen-Muramatsu ・Higashisanjo ・Nagaoka ・Tokamachi ・Takada ・Naoetsu ・Itoigawa The 2500 yen Toki Liner Pass allows unlimited rides for one day within the designated area above. Discount tickets are also available with the 2500 yen Toki Liner Pass. Please refer to the Toki Liner official website for information on bus stops and routes. How to Purchase Tickets – Introducing the 'RYDE PASS' App Source :Toki Liner Pass and RYDE PASS App Download (PDF) The Toki Liner Pass can be purchased from the RYDE PASS app. Click here for the App Store download page Click here for the Google Play download page 1. Download the RYDE PASS app ↓ 2. Register as a member ↓ 3. Search for and select "Toki Liner PASS 2023" in the app ↓ 4. Select the course you wish to purchase How to Use RYDE PASS Tickets purchased with the app must be presented to the bus staff when boarding or exiting the bus. ※Presentation requirements differ depending on the ticket, so please check the ticket for more details. For more information on purchasing the Toki Liner Pass and how to use the ticket (how to ride the buses with it), please visit the RYDE PASS official website. Enjoy Travel in Niigata With the Toki Liner Pass Photo：The Shinano River, Niigata Prefecture Niigata Prefecture is known for its hot springs and ski resorts, which make it a popular travel destination in Japan. Niigata can be accessed from Tokyo via the Joetsu Shinkansen (bullet train) in approximately two hours, which attracts a large number of tourists year-round. The Niigata Plain (Echigo Plain), through which the Shinano River, the longest river in Japan, flows, is known for having the best rice in Japan, and Uonuma Koshihikari rice from Niigata is regarded as the "King of Rice" in Japan. Sake made from rice grown in Niigata is also popular, and the region is now the third largest sake producer and has the largest number of sake breweries in Japan. Kubota (久保田) and Hakkaisan (八海山) are two of the most popular sake brands in Niigata, and they pair well with the local cuisine of Niigata! Facing the Sea of Japan, Niigata also offers excellent seafood such as blackthroat seaperch, succulent prawns, and Japanese amberjack, which can be enjoyed all year round. Another attraction of Niigata Prefecture is that you can indulge in seafood caught fresh from the Sea of Japan at reasonable prices. Photo：Local cuisine in Niigata Other local delicacies include hegi soba (buckwheat noodles with seaweed kneaded into them), tai chazuke (sea bream chazuke) using sea bream from Kashiwazaki, black yakisoba using noodles and squid from Niigata, and Tsubame-Sanjo ramen, a type of ramen filled with back fat and a rich seafood broth that is sure to please even the most discerning palate. Things to Do in Niigata With the Toki Liner Pass Niigata offers a wide variety of dining options and sightseeing opportunities throughout the year, but autumn is an especially great time to visit the prefecture! Niigata's spectacular natural scenery, which turns red with the autumn leaves, coupled with the exquisite seasonal cuisine, make it a destination you'll be regret not visiting. Here we'll introduce some popular things to do and dining options in major areas of Niigata that can be reached via highway bus. Things to Do in the Kaetsu Area of Niigata (Northern Niigata) Around the area where you get off the highway bus "Niigata," you can enjoy a relaxing time at the aquarium and enjoy local Niigata cuisine. Marinepia Nihonkai (Niigata City Aquarium) The aquarium exhibits 20,000 aquatic organisms of approximately 600 species, making it one of the largest aquariums on the Sea of Japan side of Honshu (Japan's main island). The underwater tunnel that passes through the bottom of the large tank is truly incredible! The aquarium is divided into the following 10 zones to introduce organisms in various environments. ・Coastal Landscape Zone ・Sea of Japan Zone ・Flow of Warmth Zone ・Shinano River Zone ・Interactive Zone ・Aquatic Animals Zone ・Dolphin Stadium Zone ・Pinniped Zone ・Penguin Coast Zone ・Niigata Field Zone Photo：Marinepia Nihonkai (Niigata City Aquarium) Facility Information 【Address】5932-445 Nishifunami-cho, Chuo-ku, Niigata 951-8555 【Access】Right in front of the "Suizokukan Mae" (水族館前) bus stop (local bus) 【Required Time】1 hr 51 min from Nagaoka Station Laporte Gosen This complex has three facilities: a Lifelong Learning Area, an Industry Promotion Area, and a Commons Area (with children's playground equipment and other rest facilities) that takes advantage of the wooden architecture. Inside the building, there is a multi-purpose hall, a cafeteria, and various places where local specialties, such as knitted goods and silk products, are sold. Visitors can also purchase local foods produced in Niigata at the farmers' market, where fresh vegetables are delivered daily. Photo：Laporte Gosen, Gosen, Niigata Facility Information 【Address】863 Akami, Gosen City, Niigata Prefecture 【Access】A 3-minute walk from the "Ota Shinden" (太田新田) bus stop (Gosen Muramatsu Line) Niigata Manga and Anime Information Center This is a cultural facility related to manga and anime in Niigata, a prefecture which has produced many popular manga artists and animators. The museum introduces how manga and anime are made, has a corner where visitors can play with popular characters, experience voice acting and the world of manga and anime, and much more. Facility Information 【Address】Bandai City BP2 1F, 2-5-7 Yachiyo, Chuo-ku, Niigata-shi, Niigata 【Access】A 5-minute walk from the "Bandai City" (万代シティ) bus stop Things to Do in the Chuetsu Area of Niigata (Central Niigata) Around the area where you get off the highway bus at "Nagaoka" (長岡), there are facilities where you can enjoy Nagaoka Fireworks, one of the three largest fireworks festivals in Japan, and a sake brewery that is the pride of Niigata, throughout the year. Kawai Tsugunosuke Memorial Hall At Kawai Tsugunosuke Memorial Hall, visitors can learn about the history of Niigata through historical exhibits related to Kawai Tsugunosuke, who led the Nagaoka domain government at the end of the Edo Period. Approximately 30 items related to Kawai Tsugunosuke are on display, including his travel diary, which he wrote during his travels in western Japan, and which he bought to Kyushu during his travels, and the manuscript of Ryotaro Shiba's novel "Touge" (Mountain Pass). Photo：Kawai Tsugunosuke Memorial Hall, Nagaoka, Niigata Facility Information 【Address】1-1675-1 Kou, Nagaoka, Nagacho, Niigata Prefecture 【Access】An 8-minute walk from the "Nagaoka Station" (長岡駅) bus stop (Nagaoka Line) 【Required Time】1 hour 28 minutes from Niigata Station Roadside Station Nagaoka Hanabi Kan Visitors can experience Nagaoka Fireworks all year round at the dome theater, where they can enjoy one of Japan's three largest fireworks festivals with sound and images. In the exhibition room, which is free of charge, visitors can enjoy fireworks-related games and more on a large 15-meter-wide, 6-meter-tall screen, and the history of Nagaoka Fireworks is also introduced on the walls of the exhibition room. Photo：Roadside Station Nakaoka Hanabi Kan, Nagaoka, Niigata Facility Information 【Address】707 Kitamachi, Nagaoka-shi, Niigata 940-2121 【Access】An 8-minute walk from the "Higoshi" (日越) bus stop (local bus) Yoshinogawa Sake Brewery The 470-year-old brewery is home to Sake Museum Jogura, a facility that includes a store, a standing sake bar and displays of historical articles from Yoshinogawa's history. The brewery offers a variety of special and seasonal sake that can only be enjoyed at the brewery. Photo：Yoshinogawa Sake Brewery, Nagaoka, Niigata Facility Information 【Address】4-8-12, Settaya, Nagaoka-shi, Niigata, 940-1105, Japan 【Access】A 3-minute walk from the "Miyauchi 1-chome" (宮内1丁目) bus stop (local bus) Things to Do in the Joetsu Area of Takada-Naoetsu Around the area where you get off the highway bus at Takada and Naoetsu, you can enjoy autumn leaves at historical landmarks, and Niigata's local cuisine and history. Ryotei Ukiyo Ryotei Ukiyo is a long-established Japanese restaurant that has been in business since the end of the Edo Period (1603-1868). The restaurant also offers a limited menu that changes monthly. The garden, which changes beautifully from season to season, can be viewed from the restaurant's windows, allowing guests to enjoy their meals in a tasteful atmosphere. Photo：Ryotei Ukiyo, Joetsu, Niigata Facility Information 【Address】Nakamachi3-5-4, Joetsu, Niigata, 943-0831, Japan 【Access】A 5-minute walk from the "Takada Ekimae" (高田駅前) bus stop (Joetsu Line) 【Required Time】2 hours 12 minutes from Niigata Station Takada Castle Park Takada Castle Site Park, while famous for its cherry blossoms, becomes a popular spot for visitors in autumn when the maple and ginkgo trees change colors. The reflection of Takada Castle on the surface of the moat surrounding it, together with the autumn leaves, makes it a truly unforgettable attraction. The best time to view the autumn leaves is from early November for the cherry trees and from mid-November for the ginkgo trees. Near the park, there's playground equipment, benches, and a café, making it the perfect spot to go for a walk and enjoy the autumn leaves. Photo：Takada Castle Site Ruins, Joetsu, Niigata Facility Information 【Address】943-0835 Niigata, Joetsu, Motoshirocho, 44−1 【Access】A 1-minute walk from "Takada Joshi Koen Iriguchi" (高田城址公園入口) bus stop (local bus) Video article 2:12 Takada Joshi Park – One of Top 3 Nighttime Cherry Blossom Spots in Japan! Check Out the Cherry Blossoms in Full Bloom, the Cherry Blossom Blizzards, and the Nighttime Cherry Blossoms of Niigata Prefecture via Video! YouTube Taga Tea Roastery A renovated old machiya (Japanese townhouse) specializing in Japanese tea. Enjoy tea, Japanese sweets, rice crackers, and more at this new shop, which opened in April 2023. Souvenirs and teapots made locally in Joetsu are also available for purchase. Photo：Taga Tea Roastery, Joetsu, Niigata Facility Information 【Address】3-chōme-1-9 Nakamachi, Joetsu, Niigata 943-0831 【Access】A 6-minute walk from the "Takada Ekimae" (高田駅前) bus stop (Joetsu Line) Takada Sekai-kan Takada Sekai-kan opened in 1911 and is the oldest existing movie theater in Japan. The ultra-retro projection room, which has remained unchanged from when it opened, is one of the highlights of the building. It's registered as a Tangible Cultural Property of Japan and a Heritage of Industrial Modernization. Photo：Takada Sekai-kan, Joetsu, Niigata Facility Information 【Address】6 Chome-4-21 Honcho, Joetsu, Niigata 943-0832 【Access】A 10-minute walk from the "Takada Ekimae" (高田駅前) bus stop (Joetsu Line) Autumn Seafood Delicacies in Niigata ・Salmon Autumn salmon, which is in season from September to December, have a nice firm texture. ・Blackthroat Perch Blackthroat perch are caught year-round, and early autumn is said to be the best season for them. ■Here are some recommended restaurants where you can enjoy seasonal tuna bowls Sushi Marui The "Nodoguro Aburi-don" is a bowl of rice topped with blackthroat perch caught in Niigata, that has been quickly seared to bring out the flavor of the fish's fat. ※Please note that the Nodoguro Aburi-don is available only for lunch. 【Address】8-1411 Higashiboridori, Chuo-ku, Niigata City, 951-8065 【Access】A 10-minute walk from the "Niigata Station" (新潟駅) bus stop Things to Do and Where to Eat With the Toki Liner Pass When you purchase a Toki Liner Pass, you will also receive a number of special discount tickets (sightseeing, secondary transportation, dining) as well. They can be used for free toppings and side dishes at restaurants and more. Be sure to show your Toki Liner Pass to receive the discounts. Secondary Transportation Services With the Toki Liner Pass Photo：Rent-a-car/Rent-a-cycle ・Rent-a-cycle (Nagaoka area) 　- Rent-a-cycle fee: 300 yen → 100 yen ・Rent-a-cycle (Muramatsu area) 　- Rent-a-cycle fee: Free ・Rent-a-car (Niigata area) 　- Rent-a-car fee: 500 yen discount on car rental fees ・Rent-a-car (Nagaoka and Tsubame-Sanjo area) 　- Rent-a-car fee: 500 yen discount on car rental fees Sightseeing and Local Dining Services Available With the Toki Liner Pass Photo：Toki Liner Pass special discount coupons ・KYOWA Classic Car & Life Station (Higashisanjo area) 　- 300 yen discount for interactive activities ・Laporte Gosen (Gosen Muramatsu area) 　- 200 yen discount at the farm direct shop ・Kawai Tsugunosuke Memorial Museum (Nagaoka District) 　- Free admission ・Tsubamesanjo Bit (Higashisanjo area) 　- 300 yen off your bill ・Ramen Tenzan Nagaoka Store (Nagaoka area) 　- Three free gyoza (dumplings) ・Chinese Restaurant Atago (Niigata area) 　- Ramen toppings: 1 free ajitama (flavored egg) ・Oretachi no Ramen Chobikichi (Niigata area) 　- Ramen toppings: 3 free nori (dried seaweed) ・WAKA Noodle Shop (Niigata area) 　- One extra piece of chashu (braised pork) ・Ramen Hachi (Niigata area) 　- A free raw egg or small serving of rice ・Hachibei Ramen (Niigata area) 　- Half an Ajitama (flavored egg) or 2 sheets of Nori (dried seaweed) free ・Shrimp Ramen Specialty Restaurant "Ebisu DELUX" (Niigata area) 　- Two free Yodare Gyoza (dumplings) ・Kokoro Ramen (Niigata Area) 　- 100 yen discount on noodles ・Echigo Hillside Park (Nagaoka area) 　- 100 yen discount on three kinds of soft-serve ice cream at Rose Café For details on ticket information, facilities and stores, please visit the official RYDE PASS website. Enjoy Affordable Travel in Niigata With the Toki Liner Pass! Photo：Discover Niigata with the Toki Liner Pass! Come and experience the beautiful natural scenery unique to autumn in Niigata while enjoying the seasonal flavors of the prefecture. A trip to Niigata is sure to make for some lifelong memories! The Toki Liner Pass introduced in this article is a great way to enjoy autumn travel in Japan at an affordable price. Tickets can be easily purchased via the RYDE PASS app. Click here for the App Store download page Click here for the Google Play download page Enjoy sightseeing in Niigata while taking in the various scenery from the comfort of a highway bus! 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JR KYUSHU RAIL PASS: Video Introduction Photo：JR Kyushu, Tsubame 800 Series Shinkansen This video, titled [4K] JR KYUSHU RAIL PASS (Northern Kyushu ver.), was uploaded by JR KYUSHU WORLD. The JR KYUSHU RAIL PASS is a rail pass that allows you to ride not only regular and rapid trains operated by JR Kyushu, but also limited express trains, sightseeing trains, and even the Kyushu Shinkansen. The JR KYUSHU RAIL PASS is an unlimited train pass for the Kyushu area, and there are three types of passes to choose from. The passes are available to foreign tourists with passports issued outside of Japan. Check out the promotional video to get an idea of what a train trip in Kyushu is like. JR KYUSHU RAIL PASS: Prices and Types Photo：JR Kyushu, Limited Express 'Aso Boy!' Here we'll introduce JR KYUSHU RAIL PASS prices and types. There are three types of passes, which cover the following areas: Northern Kyushu, Southern Kyushu, and all of Kyushu. Fees for each area vary according to how many days you plan to use the pass. Be sure to choose the one that fits your itinerary. ●JR KYUSHU RAIL PASS: 3-Day Pass ・All Kyushu - Adults: 17,000 yen (~$121 USD), Children: 8,500 yen (~$61 USD) ・Northern Kyushu - Adults: 10,000 yen (~$71 USD), Children: 5,000 yen (~$36 USD) ・Southern Kyushu - Adult: 8,000 yen (~$57 USD), Children: 4,000 yen (~$29 USD) ●JR KYUSHU RAIL PASS: 5-Day Pass ・All Kyushu - Adults: 18,500 yen (~$132 USD), Children: 9,250 yen (~$66 USD) ・Northern Kyushu - Adults: 14,000 yen (~$100 USD), Children: 7,000 yen (~$50 USD) ●JR KYUSHU RAIL PASS: 7-Day Pass ・All Kyushu - Adults: 20,000 yen (~$143 USD), Children: 10,000 yen (~$72 USD) The above information is current as of February 2023. Please check the JR Kyushu official website for up-to-date information. ※Please keep in mind that passes must be used consecutively, meaning you cannot use the pass on one day, skip the next day, and then continue using it for 2 more days (in the case of a 3-day pass). As an example, a 3-day pass that starts on February 1 can be used on February 1, 2, & 3. ※Please note that you must meet the following conditions to be eligible for the pass: 1. You must hold a passport issued by a country other than Japan. 2. You must reside outside of Japan and must be visiting Japan on a temporary visitor visa. The Best Places to Visit in Kyushu to Make the Most of Your JR KYUSHU RAIL PASS Photo：Glover Garden, Nagasaki City, Nagasaki Here is a brief introduction of the best routes for traveling in Kyushu. ●Northern Kyushu Area This route takes visitors around Nagasaki, Hita in Oita Prefecture, and the hot spring resorts of Beppu, using Fukuoka and Hakata as a hub. Highlights include the Nagasaki Atomic Bomb Museum, Glover Garden, onsen (hot springs), and the Jigokudani Meguri (Beppu Onsen hot spring tour). You can enjoy sampling the local cuisine with dishes such as chanpon (champon) and Hita Yakisoba. ●Southern Kyushu Area This route takes visitors around Obi, Aoshima, and Miyazaki, using Kagoshima as a hub. Visitors can experience Satsuma Kiriko (cut glass), Obiten (Obi-style tempura), the hot springs of Ibusuki Onsen, Oni no Sentaku Ita (the Devil's Washboard, a beautiful beach in Miyazaki), Aoshima Shrine, Obi Castle Ruins, Takachiho Gorge and a variety of other tourist attractions. ●All Kyushu Using Hakata as a base, this route takes visitors to Mt. Aso in Kumamoto, Ibusuki and Kirishima Onsen in Kagoshima, and Beppu Onsen in Oita, where they can enjoy the Jigokudani Meguri (Beppu Onsen hot spring tour), Lake Kinrin, and enjoy touring around in horse-drawn carriages, before returning to Hakata where visitors can enjoy shopping and entertainment at Canal City, among various other activities. You can also enjoy the local flavors at the various food stalls in Hakata. [Video] 0:26 - Yufuin Station Other Tickets and Rail Passes for Traveling in Kyushu on a Budget Photo：JR Kyushu Series 787 Limited Express Train So far, we've introduced the JR KYUSHU RAIL PASS, a rail pass useable by foreign residents visiting Japan. However, JR Kyushu also offers a variety of other railroad passes and discount tickets for residents of Japan as well. KYUSHU NET KIPPU, KYUSHU NET HAYATOKU7, and KYUSHU NET HAYATOKU3 are discount tickets sold exclusively online. KYUSHU NET KIPPU is a convenient ticket for using the Kyushu Shinkansen and limited express trains, and can be changed as many times as necessary as long as the change is made before receiving the ticket and before the train departs. KYUSHU NET HAYATOKU7 and KYUSHU NET HAYATOKU3 are special tickets with a limited number of seats that offer discounts for reservations made 7 and 3 days in advance, respectively. Additionally, JR Kyushu offers the Gurutto Kyushu Kippu (ぐるっと九州きっぷ) rail pass, which allows unlimited rides on non-reserved ordinary and rapid trains on all JR Kyushu lines for three consecutive days. In addition, there is also the Nimai Kippu (2枚きっぷ), which allows you to ride on limited express trains and reserved seats of ordinary trains at a discounted price, although the stations you can travel to and from are limited. JR Kyushu offers a wide variety of special train passes and tickets, so you can choose the one that best fits your travel itinerary. If you're traveling by train, you can also enjoy train travel not only in Kyushu but also further away by combining them with the Seishun 18 Ticket. Summary of the JR KYUSHU RAIL PASS Photo：A 415 series train, JR Kyushu The JR KYUSHU RAIL PASS allows you to visit the most popular attractions in Kyushu for an affordable price. If you're traveling on a budget, be sure to make use of the pass as you enjoy the nature and culture of Kyushu, as well as its delicious food, all while saving money. If you're a resident of Japan, be sure to make sure of the other discount tickets available, and tell your friends visiting from outside of Japan to pick up the JR KYUSHU RAIL PASS! 【Official Website】JR KYUSHU RAIL PASS 【Official Website】Kyushu Railway Company

Video introduction of "Yabusame (horseback archery) ritual" at Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine in Kamakura, Kanagawa Prefecture Photo：Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine, Kamakura This video, titled "Yabusame Horseback Archery 20 Shots｜Kamakura 2019" (鎌倉 鶴岡八幡宮 流鏑馬 20連発 Yabusame Horseback Archery 20 shots Kamakura 2019), was uploaded by "keity." Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine is located in Kamakura, Kanagawa. Yabusame (traditional Japanese horseback Archery) is a Shinto ritual of the Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine Festival in which archers dressed in traditional hunting attire shoot at targets while controlling their aim from horseback. The video begins with the yabusame ritual and shows the archers shooting arrows called "kabura-ya" which whistle when loosed. Accurately shooting the arrows from horseback at high speed requires the archer be incredibly skilled. Check out the video to see the awesome footage of the archers performing on horseback. The History of Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine Photo：The stone steps leading up to the main shrine of Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine, Kamakura The history of Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine dates back to 1063, when Minamoto no Yoriyoshi, the ancestor of Minamoto no Yoritomo, who founded the Kamakura shogunate, moved Ishimizu Hachimangu Shrine from Kyoto. Yoriyoshi was a devout worshipper of Ishimizu Hachimangu Shrine and enshrined the Shinto deity Hachiman as the Minamoto Clan deity near Yuhigahama beach in Kamakura. Later, Minamoto no Yoritomo returned the shrine to its present location on Kyoto and laid the foundations for Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine. In 1180, Minamoto no Yoritomo established the first samurai government, the Kamakura Shogunate, in Kamakura, and in the same year, he moved the Hachimangu Shrine, which was associated with his ancestors, to its present location. The shrine was revered as the guardian deity of the Shogunate, Kamakura, and the eastern provinces of Japan. Additionally, the shrine hosted, and continues to host, a number of festivals that were important to the shogunate, including life release ceremonies, yabusame, sumo wrestling, and bugaku (traditional Japanese court music and dance), all of which have been handed down to the present day. One of the most famous historical events at Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine is the assassination of Minamoto no Sanetomo, which happened on the large stairway leading up to the shrine. When you visit the shrine, you can climb up the very same stairs the assassination took place on. What is Yabusame? The History of Japan's Traditional Archery Photo：Yabusame Yabusame, the ancient Japanese art of horseback archery, has a long history, dating back to the 6th century during the reign of Emperor Kinmei. It's said to have started as a ritual in which three targets were shot from horseback at Usa Jingu Shrine in Oita Prefecture in honor of Empress Jingu and Emperor Ojin. Yabusame (流鏑馬) means "to ride a horse while shooting arrows." Yabusame at Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine is a traditional event with more than 800 years of history. It's said that it started when Minamoto no Yoritomo performed yabusame in 1187 at a life release at Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine to pray for peace and prosperity in Japan. Encouraged by Yoritomo, Yabusame was an essential Shinto ritual for warriors to improve their skills and to show the quality and hardiness of warriors in the Kamakura period. There are two schools of yabusame. Minamoto no Tsunemoto, the founder of the Seiwa Genji branch of the Minamoto clan, handed down the tradition to Minamoto no Yoshimitsu, and from there it was passed on to the Takeda and Ogasawara clans. As a result, there are two schools of yabusame: the Takeda School and the Ogasawara School. Yabusame archery performed at Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine is of the Ogasawara style. Yabusame is performed at Shinto rituals and festivals all over Japan, and you can enjoy seeing the differences between the two schools by going to events in other areas. The Top 3 Yabusame Events in Japan Photo：Yabusame at Shimogamo Shrine Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine in Oita Prefecture, Nyakuichioji Shrine in Nagano Prefecture, and Shimogamo Shrine in Kyoto Prefecture are collectively considered to host the three best Yabusame events in Japan. Here, we'll explain a bit about yabusame at Nyakuichioji Shrine and Shimogamo Shrine. ●Yabusame at Nyakuichioji Shrine, Nagano Prefecture The Yabusame ritual at Nyakuichioji Shrine is held during the annual festival. What makes this ritual unique is that the archers are children. They put on makeup and wear traditional archer attire, parade through the town, and perform yabusame at the shrine to celebrate a good harvest. ●Yabusame at Shimogamo Shrine, Kyoto Prefecture The yabusame ritual at Shimogamo Shrine is held as a precursor to Kyoto's famous Aoi Matsuri. Shimogamo Shrine has the longest history of yabusame rituals among the three shrines, dating back to circa 457 according to the Nihon Shoki. What makes this event unique is that while the other two are performed in warrior costumes, the yabusame ceremony at Shimogamo Shrine is performed in traditional court noble attire. Highlights of the Yabusame Ritual at Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine Photo：Yabusame at Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine The highlight of yabusame at Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine is the garbs worn by the archers. They wear traditional hunting costumes worn by samurai during the Kamakura period (1185-1333), and wear unique hats called "ayaigasa," which are made of rush woven into twill and covered with cloth. They wear jackets called "hitatare" and carry a sword at their waist, which gives them a dignified appearance. One of the highlights of the yabusame is the distinctive yell of the archer as he runs his horse. When the archer shoots an arrow while running his horse, he shouts "in, yo, i." This represents the Japanese words for "yin, yang, and arrow," and is attributed to Onmyodo, or "The Way of Yin and Yang," which was incorporated into the teachings of the samurai during the Kamakura period. Nagakiyo Ogasawara, the founder of the Ogasawara School of yabusame, was also a samurai in the Kamakura period. Even more than the shouts though, is the sound the arrow makes when it strikes its target. Be sure to check out the video to see the skill that samurai warriors would have used on the battlefield when fighting for their lives. Schedule and Location Information for the 2024 Yabusame Event at Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine Photo：The main shrine of Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine, Kamakura The yabusame ritual at Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine is usually held on the same day as the annual festival on September 16 and during a festival in October. That being said, the 2022 event was cancelled due to the novel coronavirus pandemic. Currently, no information regarding the schedule for the 2023 yabusame event has been announced on the shrine's website. However, since there are no longer any restrictions on activities, there is a strong possibility that the event will be held this year, so we're optimistic that the event will be held this year. After leaving the entrance of the shrine office of Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine, a ritual will be held at the lower worship hall, followed by a small parade welcoming the archers and their horses. After that, the archers, dressed in magnificent traditional hunting attire, will perform the yabusame ritual. Summary of Yabusame at Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine Photo：The main shrine of Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine, Kamakura Yabusame, performed as a ritual event during Tsurugaoka Hachiman Shrine's annual festival, is a rare opportunity to see magnificent costumes, traditional Japanese martial arts, and splendid horsemanship and archery. Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine offers blessings for luck in victory, work, and success in life, as well as for easy childbirth and marriage, so consider having a quick prayer if you visit the shrine for the yabusame ritual. Also, be sure to see the portable shrine procession at the Shinkosai Festival held after the regular festival, and the dance performed by miko (shrine maidens) wearing traditional garbs. Yabusame events are a great opportunity to see the skills of warriors that have been handed down since the Kamakura period. We hope you will be able to witness this spectacular ritual that has been handed down for hundreds of years. 【Official Website】Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine 【TripAdvisor】Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine

Katsuoji Temple, Minoh, Osaka: Video Introduction Photo：Hydrangeas at Katsuoji Temple, Minoh, Osaka This video, titled "Katsuoji Temple, a beautiful temple of Kachi Daruma in Minoh, Osaka, Japan" (勝ちダルマの勝尾寺｜大阪箕面市の美しいお寺 - Katsuo-ji Temple（Osaka、 Japan）), was uploaded by "BURARI JAPAN." This 5-minute video shows Okiyome Bridge which leads to the temple gate of Katsuoji Temple, along with fog, the beautiful contrast of green trees and red-colored architecture on the temple grounds, and the many Daruma dolls placed throughout the temple. Be sure to check out the video, which was shot during hydrangea season on the temple grounds, to see the temple in Osaka, Japan known for luck in victory. Katsuoji Temple – The History & Name of the Temple and Its Unique Kachi Daruma Dolls Photo：Spring at Katsuoji Temple, Minoh, Osaka Katsuoji Temple, which is known for its kachi daruma ('kachi' meaning victory, and 'daruma' being dolls modeled after Bodhidharma that are symbols of good luck), dates back to the Nara Period (710-794 A.D.) in Japan. The temple was founded in 775 under the name Mirokuji Temple. The sixth head priest, Gyojun, used the power of Buddhism to cure Emperor Seiwa, who was ill, through prayer. For this reason, the temple was given the name "Katsuoji Temple" (勝王寺) meaning "the temple that defeated the king" (勝: Win, 王: King, 寺: Temple) (referring to the temple having better healers than the imperial palace). However, out of a sense of humility, Gyojun changed the "王" (King) to "尾" (Tail) and called the temple "Katsuoji Temple" without changing the pronunciation. However, despite this, the temple still gradually came to be known for blessings of luck in victory. The "Katsu" (勝: Win) in "Katsuoji" has the meaning of "facing oneself" and "defeating oneself," which is consistent with Bodhidharma's idea of zazen Buddhism. Therefore, it is said that the temple adopted the kachi daruma, a daruma doll with the character "勝" (kachi 'victory') on its belly. Many people visit Katsuoji Temple to pray for success in entrance examinations, employment, and prosperous business. The Meaning of Daruma, How Much they Cost, and How to Use Them Photo：Daruma dolls at Katsuoji Temple, Minoh, Osaka Kachi daruma have the meaning of "victory over oneself" and "to fall down 7 times, but get back up 8." It represents a pledge to fulfill the wish written on the daruma doll within one year from the date the wish is written on it. Kachi daruma dolls range in price from 2,000 to 200,000 yen ($15-$150). After receiving the daruma and writing your goal(s) for the year on the back and your life goals on the bottom, light incense sticks filled with your thoughts and let the smoke seep into the daruma. Make a vow to make every effort to achieve your goals, and draw an eye in the daruma doll's right eye. After taking it home, place it in a place where you can see it. Then, either when you achieve your goal or one year later, dedicate it to Katsuoji Temple. If you are successful, draw in the left eye, and if not, leave it blank and go to the main hall to report your progress and express your gratitude. [Video] 2:02 - Dedicating a Daruma Katsuoji Temple – Beautiful Autumn Leaves and Nighttime Illuminations Photo：Benten Hall and autumn leaves at the pond, Katsuoji Temple, Minoh, Osaka Every year in early November, visitors can enjoy the autumn leaves at Katsuoji Temple. The temple grounds, which extend from the temple gate, beautiful shades of red and yellow, and are enhanced by the greenery of the surrounding mountains. The temple is also illuminated at night, and the views looking up at the pagoda are simply breathtaking. Other spots to check out at Katsuoji Temple are as follows: ●Sanmon Gate - Okiyome Bridge - Benten Hall - The Two-Story Pagoda From Okiyome Bridge, after passing through the temple gate, you'll find the two-story pagoda and Benten Hall. The autumn leaves and buildings reflected on the surface of the water together with the mist around Okiyome Bridge create a magical atmosphere. [Video] 0:05 - Sanmon Gate, Okiyome Bridge, and Benten Hall ●The Approach to the Main Hall and Nikaido (the fifth sacred site of Honen, the founder of Pure Land Buddhism) The approach to the main hall and Nikaido is like a tunnel of autumn leaves. It's a special space that can be seen only during a limited period of time. [Video] 2:56 - The Main Hall of Katsuoji Temple ●The View From Nikaido Nikaido is located on a hill and offers a panoramic view of the entire temple grounds. The view from Nikaido is different from looking up at the autumn leaves, and is unique to Katsuoji Temple. How to Get to Katsuoji Temple Photo：Near Osaka Station Here is how you can get to Katsuoji Temple from various locations in Osaka. Katsuoji Temple From Osaka Station: 40-50 mins Take the subway from JR Osaka Station to Senri-Chuo Station (~20 mins), and from there, take a bus (~30 mins) or taxi (~20 mins) to Katsuoji Temple. Alternatively, you can the train from Osaka Station to Ishibashi Handai-mae Station (~16 mins), then take a train to Minoo Station (~6 mins), and from Mino Station take a bus (~30 mins) or taxi (~20 mins) to Katsuoji Temple. Katsuoji Temple From Osaka International Airport: 30-60 mins To get to Katsuoji Temple from Osaka International Airport, take the monorail (~3mins) or bus (~20 mins) to Hotarugaike Station, and from there take the monorail, take the monorail to Senri-Chuo Station (~9 mins). From there take a bus (~33 mins) or taxi (~20 mins) to Katsuoji Temple. Other Things to Do Near Katsuoji Temple Photo：Autumn colors at Minoh Falls, Minoh, Osaka Since Katsuoji Temple is located a ways from the city, there isn't a ton of stuff to do in the immediate area. That being said, it is located somewhat close to Minoh Falls. Minoh Falls Minoh Park has two entrances: one on the back side of the park, and the other close to the city of Osaka. From either entrance, it's an approximately 45-minute walk to the waterfall, meaning you can either hike to Minoh Falls from the city and then hike to Katsuoji Temple afterwards, or visit Katsuoji Temple first, hike to Minoh Falls, and then hike back to the entrance near Minoo Station. Minoh Park is especially beautiful during autumn when the leaves have changed color, so if you're visiting during this time, we highly recommend checking it out. Hours: Open 24 hours Admission Fee: Free Summary of Katsuoji Temple and Its Kachi Daruma Dolls Photo：Daruma dolls at Katsuoji Temple, Minoh, Osaka Did you watch the video of Minoh, Osaka's Katsuoji Temple? The temple is full of things to see and do, from its rich natural scenery and quaint atmosphere to the overflowing daruma dolls on the kachi daruma dedication racks. Katsuoji Temple also sells daruma dolls with omikuji (fortunes) inside, so be sure to purchase one and display it on a shelf at home! During the special nighttime illumination period in the fall, when the autumn leaves are in season, the temple is visited by people from all over Japan, and the approach to the main hall and the Nikaido Hall attracts many visitors every year to see the tunnel of autumn leaves. Although there is a parking lot at Katsuoji Temple, you should consider taking a taxi from Minoo Station, as it will inevitably be crowded when the autumn leaves are in season. There's a ton of things to do at Katsuoji Temple, and it's a recommended spot where you can enjoy the beautiful scenery of Japan. Why not visit spring and early summer at the shrine are also great times to visit, so be sure to consider it! 【Official Website】Katsuoji Temple 【TripAdvisor】Katsuoji Temple

Tokyu Kabukicho Tower" in Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo Video Introduction Photo：Tokyu Kabukicho Tower, Shinjuku This video, titled "Tokyu Kabukicho Tower: A Hotel and Entertainment Complex Aimed at International Tourists" (【東急歌舞伎町タワー】インバウンド需要狙い　ホテルとエンタメの複合施設), was uploaded by "NTV News24" (日テレNEWS). The video introduces the entertainment facilities of Tokyu Kabukicho Tower, which opened in April 2023. The video is full of exciting images, such as the flashy food hall Shinjuku Kabukicho Hall, where guests can enjoy sampling cuisine from different regions of Japan, and the movie theater, where every seat is a premium seat. [Video] 0:48 - All Premium Seats [Video] 0:57 - The Flashy Food Hall What is Tokyu Kabukicho Tower in Shinjuku, Tokyo Photo：Tokyu Kabukicho Tower, Shinjuku On April 14, 2023, an entertainment complex tower that allows visitors to play, watch, eat, and stay opened in Kabukicho in Shinjuku, Tokyo. The 225-meter-tall skyscraper complex stands majestically on the former site of the sadly closed Shinjuku Milano-za Theater. Its name is Tokyu Kabukicho Tower. The exterior of the tower is extremely stylish, and the skyscraper, designed in the image of a fountain, has a strong presence in Shinjuku's Kabukicho district. The concept of Tokyu Kabukicho Tower is to "pursue your passions." Admission to Tokyu Kabukicho Tower is free, and anyone can enter. The tower houses restaurants, cafes, an evolutionary food court in the style of an alleyway you'd find in Tokyo, live music clubs, cinemas, theaters, and accommodations, offering a variety of experiences within a single building. In addition, reflecting the diversifying society, gender-less restrooms have been introduced on the 2nd floor. The revolutionary restrooms, which can be used by both men and women, have been quite the controversy on social media. Experience Japanese Festival Culture and Delicious Food on the 2nd Floor at Shinjuku Kabuki Hall Photo：Shinjuku Kabuki Hall, Tokyu Kabukicho Tower, Shinjuku Shinjuku Kabuki Hall is a flashy food hall with a Japanese festival theme. Located on the 2nd floor of Tokyu Kabukicho Tower, the interior combines the glitz and glamour of Kabukicho with authentic alley-way-style areas that Tokyo is known for. Delicious foods from all over Japan and cuisine from the neighboring country of Korea can be enjoyed here as well. Hours for Shinjuku Kabuki Hall are from 6:00 a.m. to 5:00 a.m. the next day. Events are held every night on the stage set up inside the food hall, adding to the festive nighttime atmosphere of Tokyu Kabukicho Tower. [Shop Information for the Food Hall] ●Hokkaido Food Festival (北海道食祭) Visitors can enjoy local delicacies of Hokkaido, such as ramen, zangi (a special type of fried chicken), Tokachi pork bowls, Muroran yakitori (pork and onions skewers), and various seafood products. ●Tohoku Food Festival (東北食祭) A restaurant where you can try beef tongue from Sendai, a major city in Japan's Tohoku region, Morioka reimen (cold noodles), Hinai Jidori chicken characterized by its firm texture and umami flavor, and Fukushima enban gyoza (disc dumplings) beautifully arranged in the shape of a frying pan. ●Kanto Food Festival (関東食祭) Kanto Food Festival is popular for its sushi platters and Edo tempura rice bowls, which allow visitors to enjoy Edomae techniques, motsuyaki (grilled beef offal) from Shibaura, Sano ramen from Tochigi, and Tochigi gyoza (dumplings). ●Yokohama Chinese Food Festival (横浜中華食祭) A restaurant where you can enjoy popular dishes from Yokohama Chinatown in a casual atmosphere. ●Chubu Food Festival (中部食祭) Here, visitors can enjoy dishes such as Nagoya's classic miso pork cutlet and chicken wings, dishes made with Japanese glass shrimp, the jewels of Toyama Bay, and Hanton Rice from Kanazawa, which has become a popular tourist destination since the opening of the Hokuriku Shinkansen bullet train. ●Kinki Food Festival (近畿食祭) Visitors can enjoy "B-class gourmet" foods such as Osaka's okonomiyaki and kushikatsu, as well as Kyoto's udon noodles and obanzai (traditional Kyoto-style cuisine), famous for their elegant soup stock. The lineup also includes first-class Japanese beef dishes, such as Kobe Beef and Omi Beef! ●Chugoku-Shikoku Food Festival (中四国食祭) This restaurant focuses on fresh ingredients sent from the regions that produce them, such as bonito (dried skipjack tuna flakes) shipped directly from the remote Okinoshima island in Kochi, oysters shipped directly from Hiroshima, and noodles from a long-established Sanuki Udon noodle store in Kagawa that attracts large crowds of customers. ●Kyushu-Okinawa Food Festival (九州沖縄食祭) A restaurant where you can try Hakata's yakitori ramen, torikawa (chicken skin) skewers, and tetsunabe gyoza (a special type of dumpling). You can also try chicken dishes made with Miyazaki jidori chicken, goya chanpuru (Okinawan bitter gourd stir-fry), rafute, and more. Enjoy a combination of foods together with shochu and awamori. ●Korean Food Festival (韓国食祭) From Korean dishes like cheese dakgalbi, sundubu, and samgyeopsal, which are very popular in Japan, to sweets from Korean food stalls, you can enjoy a wide variety of Korean food here. ●KABUKI CAFÉ A casual Italian restaurant that can be enjoyed as a café or a bar. The Arts at Tokyu Kabukicho Tower! Theater, Cinema, a Live Music Club and More! Source :YouTube screenshot No matter how rewarding the tourist attraction or wonderful the live performance is, if your accommodations are far away or if you have to travel by crowded train, you won't be able to enjoy it as much as you'd like... With that said, we recommend utilizing the accommodations inside Tokyu Kabukicho Tower. Tokyu Kabukicho Tower has two hotels opening on May 19, 2023. They are "BELLUSTAR TOKYO, A Pan Pacific Hotel," a facility that offers one of the most luxurious lodging experiences in Japan, and "HOTEL GROOVE SHINJUKU, A PARKROYAL Hotel," which features pop-style guest rooms with art and music inspired by Shinjuku. After a long day of fun at Tokyu Kabukicho Tower, an entertainment complex tower, you can return to your hotel room at the press of a button! You're sure to have an enjoyable time if you do so! Tokyu Kabukicho Tower is also connected to airports via a direct limousine bus service. If you're looking for a base to explore tourist attractions around Tokyo, this is it! Tokyu Kabukicho Tower: An Entertainment Facility & Hotel in Shinjuku, Tokyo Photo：Tokyu Kabukicho Tower at night, Shinjuku Tokyu Kabukicho Tower, an entertainment complex and tower, combines a state-of-the-art theater, movie theater, and a live music hall. Located on the 6th, 7th, and 8th floors of Tokyu Kabukicho Tower, THEATER MILANO-Za has been opened, taking the name of Shinjuku Milano-za, a beloved movie theater that was open in Shinjuku for 58 years, as a live entertainment theater. It offers a top-notch stage for artists, not only for plays, but also for seated live music performances and visual events. 109 Cinemas Premium is located on the 9th and 10th floors. The viewers-only lounge, which can be used one hour before a movie starts, has a relaxing atmosphere and is decorated with artwork inspired by Shinjuku's Kabukicho district. All seats are premium seats, and the design of the sound system was overseen by Ryuichi Sakamoto. Zepp Shinjyuku (TOKYO), located in the basement of Tokyu Kabukicho Tower from B1F to B4F, can accommodate 1,500 people standing, making it one of the largest live music halls in Shinjuku. Equipped with the latest video equipment, it offers a special live performance experience in a luxury venue where music and video are fused together. Tokyu Kabukicho Tower Floor Guide Photo：Tokyu Kabukicho Tower, Shinjuku Tokyu Kabukicho Tower has 48 floors above ground and 5 floors below ground for a total of 53 floors. Of the 53 floors, 45 floors are accessible by the public. Below is a floor guide for Tokyu Kabukicho Tower. BELLUSTAR TOKYO, A Pan Pacific Hotel (39-47F) A luxury hotel at the top of Tokyu Kabukicho Tower with a panoramic view of the Tokyo Metropolitan Area. The hotel has 97 rooms and 5 penthouse suites where you can enjoy an unforgettable stay. Floors 45-47 feature a bar and restaurant that can be used by all visitors to the hotel. HOTEL GROOVE SHINJUKU, A PARKROYAL Hotel (18-38F) A hotel with a view of Tokyo with fancy furnishings and unique art installations. The hotel has 538 rooms that come in a variety of styles. From suites, to rooms with tatami flooring, and rooms designed by artists, there's something for everyone here. JAM 17 DINING & BAR (17F) JAM 17 DINING & BAR features an Italian restaurant with an open kitchen and fresh vegetables from Japan's Kanto region. The restaurant also features a rooftop terrace where you can enjoy dinner with friends or a romantic night out with your special someone. The bar is a great place to relax after enjoying other facilities in the tower, and features guest bartenders, original cocktails, and a tasteful ambience. 109 Cinemas Premium (9-10F) A movie theater with completely premium seating inside Tokyu Kabukicho Tower. THEATER MILANO-Za (6-8F) Carrying on the name of the former Shinjuku Milano-za, this theater is used for plays, live performances, etc., and seats up to 907 guests in relatively spacious seating. EXSTION (5F) EXSTION is a members-only wellness club located inside of Tokyu Kabukicho Tower with a relaxing atmosphere. It features a lounge, sauna, gym, pool, restaurant, art gallery, and other facilities. THE TOKYO MATRIX (4F) A real-life dungeon based on the story of Sword Art Online. Players will have to use sword skills, and critical thinking to solve puzzles and collect items for a chance to face off against Kirito and Asuna. namco TOKYO (3F) Namco TOKYO is an arcade located inside of Tokyu Kabukicho Tower. The arcade features 250 gachapon machines, a variety of games, as well as food and drinks with which to enjoy a break between fun. Shinjuku Kabuki Hall (2F) Shinjuku Kabuki Hall is a café inside of Tokyu Kabukicho Tower with 10 restaurants all offering a different style of cuisine from somewhere in Japan, and even with Korean food. Tourist Information Center (1F) The first floor is where you can get father tourist information if you're visiting the area, but also houses a Starbucks, a burger and taco restaurants, and a variety of other facilities. Zepp Shinjuku/ZEROTOKYO (B1-B4) The basement floors are home to Zepp Shinjuku, a live music hall with state-of-the-art video equipment for live performances that can accommodate up to 1,500 guests, and ZEROTOKYO, a club where you can enjoy music, DJs, scenography, and all kinds of awesome performances. Summary of Tokyu Kabukicho Tower, a Flashy New Tourist Attraction in Shinjuku Photo：Tokyu Kabukicho Tower, Shinjuku Tokyu Kabukicho Tower is a new type of entertainment complex that is raising the bar for quality entertainment in Japan. You can experience the Japanese spirit of hospitality, which is to make your stay comfortable and enjoyable, together with endless entertainment and state-of-the-art facilities. 【Official Website】TOKYU KABUKICHO TOWER

Matsushima Bay Area Cycling Guide: Video Introduction This video, titled "Cycling to the Matsushima Bay Area (History and Cafe Tours)" (Cycling to Matsushima Bay Area(歴史とカフェ巡り編)), was uploaded by "Miyagi Tourism." Matsushima Bay, located in Sendai, Miyagi is one of the three most scenic views in Japan, along with Miyajima (Itsukushima) and Amanohashidate. The video shows three women traveling through the area by bicycle. You can see the women enjoying a cruise through Sagakei Gorge, one of the Top 3 Gorges in Japan, a footbath, and delicious food in Higashi-Matsushima. Matsushima Bay Area Cycling – Travel Around the Beautiful Bay in Miyagi Without the Need for a Car Photo：Sendai International Airport The Cycling Port, Sendai International Airport is, as the name suggests, located at Sendai International Airport. Bicycles can be assembled, disassembled, and tires can be inflated for free. Luggage lockers, showers, and changing rooms are also available for a fee. For those without a car or bicycle with them on their trip, there is also the option of renting a bicycle. The Matsushima Bay area has a cycling course that is only about 10 km (6.2 miles) long and is great for beginner-level cyclists. The best part of the bicycles is that you can take your time, enjoy the scenery, stop wherever and whenever you like, and even get some exercise. Where to Eat in Matsushima Bay Photo：Oysters, a specialty of Matsushima If you're hungry, consider grabbing lunch at SHICHINO CAFE&PIZZA. It's a stylish cafe with a view of the ocean so it's perfect for taking Instagram photos. [Video] 0:36 - SHICHINO CAFE&PIZZA The café has authentic pizza, a variety of desserts, and a café menu for a quick break. You can enjoy your meal while feeling the breeze from the terrace seats with a spectacular view of the ocean as well. If you're looking for places to stay in Matsushima Bay, be sure to check out the condominium hotel, as it's popular for overnight stays! Gelateria Fruit Laboratory is a long-established gelato shop with 50 years of history. As the name suggests, they offer a variety of fruit-based gelato, but their milk-based gelato is also quite popular. The colorful gelato all looks so delicious that it can be hard to decide which one to get. If there's one thing Matsushima is known for, its oysters! Hiroshima and Miyagi are the two largest sources of oysters in Japan, with Miyagi Prefecture ranking first in raw oyster harvest. The oysters in Matsushima are smaller than those of Hiroshima, but they have a concentrated, rich flavor and creamy texture. If you're a seafood lover, be sure to keep an eye out for restaurants that are selling them! After filling up with various delicacies in Matsushima, be sure to check out a souvenir shop. At Yukitakeya (雪竹屋) you'll find products that are individually handmade and that allow you to experience Japanese culture. There are also many original products, including food and sundries, that are perfect for souvenirs. You can even enjoy freshly baked rice crackers here. [Video] 2:05 - Yukitakeya's Freshly Baked Rice Crackers Enjoy the Beautiful Views of Miyagi With a Matsushima Bay Cruise Photo：A cruise ship, Matsushima, Miyagi Matsushima Bay is one of the three most scenic views in Japan along with Miyajima (Itsukushima) and Amanohashidate, and is known as one of the most popular tourist attractions in Miyagi Prefecture. It's said that even the famous Japanese poet Matsuo Basho was moved to speechlessness by the beauty of the bay. The beautiful island, which Basho would have seen, still attracts many visitors to this day. Sagakei Gorge is one of the Top 3 Gorges in Japan and is recommended for its sightseeing cruises! From the cruise boat, you can enjoy a beautiful view of Sagakei Gorge, and the panoramic view of its majestic cliffs is breathtaking! A cruise will take about 60 minutes. The sightseeing cruise allows visitors to see the island from angles they wouldn't normally be able to. You can see the island as they would have been in the past and connect with the long history of the island. Zuiganji Temple and Entsuji Temple – Two of the Best Places to Visit in Matsushima Bay There are a ton of things to do in and around Matsushima Bay that you don't want to miss. Godaido Temple (belonging to the nearby Zuiganji Temple), an Important Cultural Property of Japan, is located on an island near the Matsushima sightseeing boat pier. The temple was built by the famous samurai Date Masamune, and has a famous bridge that is said to bring good luck. It is said that the bridge was built so that visitors could see the sea through the gaps in the bridge girders and keep their eyes on their feet as they made their way to Godaido Temple. The bridge itself, as well as the view of Matsushima Bay from the bridge, is great for taking Instagram photos. Photo：Zuiganji Temple, Matsushima, Miyagi Zuiganji Temple is famous as the family temple of Date Masamune. The main hall, which was built by order of Date Masamune over a period of five years, is a National Treasure. The interior carvings and fusuma-e (sliding door paintings), are a sight to behold. Photo：Entsuin Temple, Matsushima, Miyagi Another place to visit in Matsushima Bay is Entsuin Temple, built in 1647 as the mausoleum of Mitsumune, grandson of Date Masamune. The mausoleum, Sankeiden, is located in the back of the main hall and is an Important Cultural Property of Japan. The temple is also a famous sightseeing spot as a temple for matchmaking, and has a statue of Kannon, the Goddess of Mercy and matchmaking, enshrined just inside the temple gate. Visitors can also enjoy the colorful autumn leaves here in the fall, or simply take a moment to relax in the lovely garden. There is also a "juzu" (Buddhist prayer bead) making experience where you can make your own original prayer beads. [Video] 2:41 - Prayer Bead Making Experience Kanrantei is said to be a Momoyama-style tea ceremony room that used to be in Fushimi Castle, which was given to Date Masamune by Toyotomi Hideyoshi. Even today, matcha green tea and sweets are served here, allowing visitors to relax and enjoy the view of Matsushima Bay. How to Get to Matsushima Bay To get to Matsushima Bay from Tokyo, first take the Tohoku Shinkansen to Sendai Station (90 mins). From Sendai Station, take the Senseki Line bound for Ishinomaki to Matsushima-Kaigan Station (40 mins). Alternatively, after arriving at Sendai Station, you can also take the Tohoku Line train bound for Matsushima and get off at Matsushima Station (25 mins), and then walk to the bay (15 mins). Matsushima Bay Cycling Tourism Guide Summary Matsushima Bay is full of history and delicious foods to try. If you're traveling to Matsushima, there are a variety of inns and hotels overlooking Matsushima Bay. Many of the hot springs are also available for those visiting on day trips as well, so be sure to check them out. There is also a free footbath spot in Matsushima, but it is unfortunately closed at this time. There are many things to see and do in the Matsushima Bay area. When you travel to Miyagi Prefecture, be sure to take a sightseeing boat ride and stop by the spots introduced here. 【TripAdvisor】 Matsushima Bay

Kosanji Temple & Kosanji Museum: Video Introduction Photo：The main hall of Kosanji Temple in Onomichi, Hiroshima This video, titled "Kosanji Temple & Museum and the Hill of Hope, Setoda, Hiroshima" (耕三寺博物館と未来心の丘、広島県三原市瀬戸田町), was uploaded by "K Nishiyama." Kosanji Temple is located on Ikuchi Island, one of the islands in the Seto Inland Sea in Onomichi, Hiroshima. The temple was built in homage to the Pure Land Buddhism temples of the Nara and Heian periods, and it has a vivid and majestic appearance. The "Hill of Hope," a pure white garden created with marble sculptures, is located in the precincts of the temple. Because of its overwhelming beauty, it has become a new attraction for tourism in Onomichi as an #instaworthy spot. Check out Kosanji Museum, where you can experience Japanese culture, and the Hill of Hope, a new tourist attraction in Onomichi, in the video! The History of Kosanji Temple & Facts About Kosanji Museum Photo：Kosanji Temple, Onomichi, Hiroshima Kosanji Temple, located in Onomichi, Hiroshima, was originally built by Kozo Kanemoto, a businessman from Fukuoka Prefecture, to mourn the loss of his mother. The temple belongs to the Honganji School of Shinshu Jodo Buddhism and is also known as "Haha no Tera" (母の寺, lit. "Mother's Temple"). The temple is called the "Nikko of the West" (a reference to the beautiful Nikko Toshogu Shrine in Tochigi prefecture) for its beautiful color and design, and pagodas modeled after ancient buildings. In 2003, 15 of its buildings were designated as Tangible Cultural Properties of Japan. Kosanji Museum exhibits many Important Cultural Properties and nationally designated Important Works of Art. This collection was originally assembled to furnish Chouseikaku Villa, which was built as both a villa and as the resting place for Kozo Kosanji's mother, and later for the temple and the opening of the museum. Immediately after the end of WWII, the museum began displaying and exhibiting the collected works of art, and in 1953, it was reestablished as a nationally registered museum, which it remains to this day. The majority of the collection consists of Buddhist art, tea ceremony art, and modern art, including a famous statue Amida Nyorai (Amitabha) with a crown of gold, which was by constructed by Kaikei, a Buddhist priest of the Kamakura period (1185-1333). What is the Hill of Hope? Photo：The white marble garden at the Hill of Hope in Onomichi, Hiroshima The Hill of Hope, located on the grounds of Kosanji, is a 5,000 square meter white marble garden. Its pure white beauty is reminiscent of the Greek island of Santorini. The marble used in the garden was mined from Carrara, Italy, where the world-renowned sculptor, Itto Kuetani, has his studio. Monuments of various shapes and sizes are placed on the hill, and paths and plazas have been created. Mr. Kuetani created these monuments harmony with the surrounding scenery and nature. He hopes that visitors will enjoy the marble garden as a part of nature, and that they will let their imaginations run wild. Kosanji Temple's Hill of Hope, a unique tourist attraction in Onomichi, is now one of the most popular Instagram spots on the Shimanami Kaido. Particularly popular is "Koumei no To" (Tower of Light), which is placed at the highest point of the Hill of Hope, as if to join hands with the setting sun. In front of the white tower, visitors can take pictures against the sky above the Seto Inland Sea, making it a popular spot for couples and tourists in general. Another instaworthy feature is "Kaze no Shiki" (風の四季, Winds of the Four Seasons); four marble screens representing the winds of the four seasons. They're great for taking pictures. Kosanji Museum and the Hill of Hope: Admission Fees, Average Time Spent Here, Etc. Photo：Nakamon Gate at Kosanji Museum in Onomichi, Hiroshima By entering Kosanji Museum, visitors can also visit the Hill of Hope. Admission is 1,400 yen for adults, 1,000 yen for university and high school students, and free for elementary and junior high school students. A 200 yen discount is available for groups of 20 or more people. Kosanji Temple also offers a "filial piety discount," which provides a 200 yen discount for parents who enter the museum with their children. The average time spent at Kosanji Museum is 1-2 hours. Please take your time and enjoy viewing the temple complex, which is a collection of the beauty of Japanese culture, as well as the works of art throughout the museum. The Hill of Hope is a vast site to explore as well. The estimated time required for this tour is 2 hours, but you may lose track of time as you take pictures and enjoy the spectacular views of the monuments and nature. If you wish to enjoy both the Kosanji Temple Museum and the Hill of Hope, you should expect to spend approximately 5 hours here. Cycling in Onomichi and the Shimanami Kaido Photo：A woman cycling on the Shimanami Kaido While Kosanji Temple, Kosanji Museum, and the Hill of Hope can all be accessed via public transportation or personal vehicles, one of the things Onomichi is known for is the Shimanami Kaido, a popular cycling route that takes cyclists from Onomichi in Hiroshima to Imabari in Ehime, across the Seto Inland Sea. The Shimanami Kaido is dotted with popular tourist attractions and things to do along the way, has great scenery, and is a great way to explore the area. The cycling course will take advanced cyclists 3-5 hours to complete, and beginners should expect the course to take 8-10 hours to complete while stopping at tourist attractions and taking in the scenery along the way. There are bicycle rental terminals with which visitors can rent a bicycle in Onomichi and drop off the bike in Imabari (or vise-versa) after they finish the course, so there's no need to worry about hauling the bike back to where you rented it, or having to bring your own bike. If you're interested in getting some exercise and enjoying the breeze, this is a great course to consider when visiting the Onomichi area. How to Get To Kosanji Museum and the Hill of Hope: Access by Train and Car Photo：Ikuchi Island and Tatara Bridge (Shimanami Kaido) There are many ways to get to Kosanji Museum and the Hill of Hope, including by boat, train, bus, and car. Since the museum is located on Ikuchi Island on the Shimanami Kaido, many people stop by while visiting other tourist attractions in the area. With that out of the way, here, we'll introduce how to get to Kosanji Museum and the Hill of Hope from Hiroshima Station and Onomichi Station. ●From Onomichi Station [Public Transportation] ・Board the "Onomichi-Setoda Cruise" and get off at Ikuchijima/Setoda Port and walk to the museum. ・Take the Onomichi Bus and get off at the Kosanji (耕三寺) bus stop. [By Car] ・Take the Nishi-Seto Expressway, exit at the Ikuchijima Kita IC, and drive to the facility via Prefectural Route 81. ●From Hiroshima Station [Public Transportation] ・From Hiroshima Station, take the JR Sanyo Main Line to Mihara Station, then go to Mihara Port, and board the Mihara-Setoda Cruise. Get off at Setoda Port and walk to the facility. [By Car] ・From the Onomichi IC on the Sanyo Expressway, drive to the facility via the Nishi-Seto Onomichi IC. There are two free parking lots at Kosanji Museum and three toll parking lots in the vicinity. However, they are often full during busy times, so it may be best to use public transportation when visiting the museum. Summary of Kosanji Museum's Hill of Hope Photo：The white marble garden at the Hill of Hope in Onomichi, Hiroshima Kosanji Temple is a wonderful tourist attraction to visit during spring when the cherry blossoms are in bloom, and in the fall, when the autumn leaves change color. The collaboration of ancient Japanese architecture and the artistic marble sculptures makes this a great date spot for couples and art enthusiasts. The Hill of Hope also has a marble restaurant, Café Cuore, where you can enjoy lunch. For those looking to enjoy a spectacular view as well as Buddhist art, tea ceremony art, and modern art, consider visiting Kosanji Museum and the Hill of Hope. ◆Kosanji Museum◆ 【Address】553, Setoda-cho, Onomichi, Hiroshima Prefecture 【Telephone】0845-27-0800 【Hours】9:00 am - 5:00 pm 【Closed】Open all year round 【Admission】Adults: 1,400 yen, College and high school students: 1,000 yen, Junior high school students and younger: free 【Official Website】Setoda Kosanji Museum 【TripAdvisor】Kosanji Museum

Harukas 300 – The Abeno Harukas Observatory: Video Introduction Photo：Abeno Harukas and an 'OSAKA' sign This video, titled "Night View from Harukas 300, the Abeno Harukas Observatory, Osaka, Japan) (あべのハルカス展望台 ハルカス300からの大阪夜景), was uploaded by "Night Movie Channel of Osaka Japan." At 300 meters (984 ft.) tall, Abeno Harukas, which opened in March 2014, is the tallest skyscraper in Japan. The skyscraper is located in the Abeno Ward of Osaka City. The Abeno Harukas observation deck, named Harukas 300, is located on floor 58-60 of Abeno Harukas. The night view from Harukas 300 is known as a spectacular spot from which to view the entire city of Osaka. Be sure to check it on in the video as you read on! 　[Video] 0:07 - Abeno Harukas 　[Video] 0:58 - Night View of Osaka From the Observatory Gallery at Harukas 300 　[Video] 4:50 - Harukas 300's Sky Garden More About Harukas 300, the Abeno Harukas Observatory Photo：People enjoying the view from Harukas 300, the observation deck of Abeno Harukas Abeno Harukas is a 60-story skyscraper completed in 2014 in the Abeno Ward of Osaka City. The name Abeno Harukas is derived from the name of the Abeno district where it is located, and the ancient word harukasu, meaning "to clear the skies." Because of its diverse facilities, such as department stores, restaurants, museums, offices, hotels, and observation decks, all housed in one city-like area, Abeno Harukas has become a popular tourist attraction in Osaka. Abeno Harukas' observatory, Harukas 300, is Japan's tallest tower at 300 meters (984 ft.) and consists of three levels on the 58th, 59th, and 60th floors. Many tourists visit the observatory every day to catch a glimpse of the breathtaking view. The observatory gallery, located on the top floor of Harukas 300, is made completely of glass, giving visitors the unique sensation that they're walking on air. From the corridor, visitors can enjoy a panoramic view of central Osaka, Osaka Bay, and Mt. Ikoma. In addition, if the weather permits it, you can even see Mt. Rokko, Kyoto, Akashi Kaikyo Bridge, Awaji Island, Mt. Ikoma, and Kansai International Airport. In addition to the observatory gallery, there is an outdoor area called Sky Garden which is surrounded by plants, making it a great place to relax. Various events are held here as well. There are also cafés, restaurants, and stores inside the observatory, where you can enjoy a meal or a drink along with the view. Harukas 300 Tickets, Discounts, and Free Gardens Photo：Abeno Harukas Admission to Harukas 300 is 1,500 yen for adults, 1,200 yen for junior high and high school students, 700 yen for elementary school students, 500 yen for young children, and free for children under 3 years of age. Visitors with disabilities and groups can enter at a discounted rate. Same-day tickets can be purchased at the ticket counter on the 16th floor of Abeno Harukas on a first-come, first-served basis. If you are traveling from far away, you can purchase advance vouchers or e-tickets to shorten your wait time. Advance vouchers can be purchased at Kintetsu Station sales offices, and e-tickets can be purchased online in advance. Both are valid for 30 days from the date of purchase. Harukas 300 1-day tickets, which allow re-entry into the facility, are 1,950 yen for adults, 1,650 yen for junior high and high school students, 950 yen for elementary school students, 750 yen for young children, and free for children under 3 years of age. In addition, Harukas Wing Garden, located on the 10th floor rooftop of Abeno Harukas' Wing Building, is an area with free admission and benches to sit and rest. Events and other events are held in the space, and in winter there are also illuminations. Enjoy the Night View at Harukas 300 With the Heliport Tour! Photo：The night view from Harukas 300, the observation deck of Abeno Harukas Abeno Harukas also has a heliport on its rooftop. Here you can enjoy the Harukas 300 Heliport Tour. The attraction of this tour is that you can monopolize the spectacular view from 300 meters above the ground, the highest point in Japan, while feeling the wind on your skin. Heliport tours are conducted 15 times a day, but we particularly recommend the nighttime tour. The nighttime heliport tours allow you to enjoy a beautiful night view of Osaka in a romantic atmosphere. A Dinner Date With a View – Restaurants at Abeno Harukas Photo：The night view from Harukas 300, the observation deck of Abeno Harukas There are a number of restaurants at Abeno Harukas with beautiful night views that are great for a date. Here are three restaurants at Abeno Harukas that we recommend for dinner. ●Restaurant ZK in Osaka Marriott Miyako Hotel - 57th Floor Osaka Marriott Miyako Hotel is located on the upper floors of Abeno Harukas. Restaurant ZK is located on the 57th floor, the top floor, and promises a beautiful view of the city of Osaka. The menu is characterized by its fusion of Japanese and Western ingredients. ●BAR PLUS in Osaka Marriott Miyako Hotel - 19th Floor An open bar located on the 19th floor front lobby of the Osaka Marriott Miyako Hotel. It offers a variety of light meals and alcoholic beverages, making it an elegant place to enjoy a night out. ●Aloha Table Abeno Harukas Dining - 14th Floor Aloha Table is an open-plan restaurant divided into a café/dining area and a bar space. The carefully selected interior and Hawaiian music create a relaxing space that will make you feel as though you've taken a trip to Hawaii. Unlike the bright scenery during the day, you can enjoy the beautiful night view of Osaka in the calm lighting at night. Enjoy the beautiful night view as well as the gastronomic delights at the various restaurants at Abeno Harukas. We recommend making reservations in advance if you're interested in a window seat. Things to Do at Abeno Harukas Photo：The view from the glass floor of Harukas 300, the Abeno Harukas observation deck Abeno Harukas houses numerous tourist attractions and hosts a wide variety of events. For example, EDGE THE HARUKAS is a newly built attraction at the top of the building, 300 meters above the ground. Visitors can enjoy walking along the edge of the building with a lifeline attached to them. The Abeno Harukas Art Museum, conveniently located within Abeno Harukas, has a high ceiling and 880 square meters of exhibition space. The museum hosts a variety of temporary exhibits, including both Asian and Western art and a wide range of art events are held here. The museum is popular among locals and tourists alike. Things to Do Near Abeno Harukas Photo：Shitennoji Temple in Osaka Below is a list of tourist attractions we recommend checking out near Abeno Harukas. Shitennoji Temple Founded in 593, Shitennoji Temple is one of, if not the, oldest temple in Japan. It was founded by Prince Shotoku, a legendary figure in Japanese history. The temple is home to a 5-story pagoda, a lovely garden where you can enjoy cherry blossoms in spring, and the temple hosts a variety of events throughout the year. Hours: Temple/Central Temple/Garden: 8:30 am - 4:30 pm (April - September), 8:30 am - 4:00 pm (October - March) ※Besides the areas listed above, the gate for Shitennoji Temple is open 24 hours. Tsutenkaku Tower One of the most famous landmarks in Osaka, the original Tsutenkaku Tower was built in 1912, although it was destroyed by a fire in 1943 and rebuilt in 1956. The Tower Slider, a 60-meter-long slide, is a new attraction that visitors can enjoy at the tower. Hours: 10:00 am - 8:00 pm (7:30 pm last admission) Admission Fee: Adults: 900 yen, Children (ages 5 to junior high school students): 400 yen. ※Discounts are available for groups of 10 or more. Tennoji Zoo Tennoji Zoo opened in 1915 and is home to a variety of animals, including polar bears, penguins, giraffes, lions, etc. Hours: 9:30 am - 5:00 pm Admission Fee: Adults: 500 yen, Junior high and elementary school students: 200 yen, Preschoolers and younger: Free How to Get to Abeno Harukas Photo：Tennoji Station, Osaka There are a number of ways to get to Abeno Harukas depending on where you're coming from; below we'll introduce a few of them. Osaka International Airport to Abeno Harukas If you're traveling to Japan and will be landing in Osaka, or will be leaving Japan via Osaka International Airport, this is far and away the simplest way to get to Abeno Harukas. There is a scheduled limousine bus to Abeno Harukas that departs every 30 minutes from Osaka International Airport. The bus will take you to Osaka Abenobashi Station and from there it's a 5-minute walk to Abeno Harukas. That same limousine bus departs from Abeno Harukas for Osaka International airport every 30 minutes as well. The bus ride is 30 minutes each way and costs 650 yen per person. Kansai International Airport to Abeno Harukas From Kansai International Airport, you can take the Haruka 34 limited express train to Tennoji Station and from there it's a 2-minute walk to Abeno Harukas. Just like the limousine bus from Osaka International Airport, this train is scheduled every 30 minutes, but the fare is 2,370 yen per person. Kyoto to Abeno Harukas To get to Abeno Harukas from Kyoto, it's a 45-minute train ride via the Haruka 37 limited express train which will take you from Kyoto Station to Tennoji Station. The fare is 2,680 yen per person. From anywhere else in Japan, the easiest way to get to Abeno Harukas is to head towards Tennoji Station, the nearest station, and from there walk to Abeno Harukas. Summary of Abeno Harukas Photo：The view from the observatory of Abeno Harukas The observation deck Harukas 300 is located on the top floor of Abeno Harukas, the tallest skyscraper in Japan. The view from 300 meters (984 ft.) above the ground is breathtaking, offering a panoramic view of Osaka City and the surrounding landscape. From couples to family trips, Abeno Harukas can be enjoyed in all kinds of ways. Be it a date or other special occasion, why not enjoy a meal at Harukas 300 while viewing a beautiful night view of Osaka? 【Official Website】Abeno Harukas　 【TripAdvisor】Abeno Harukas

Tsuyama Railroad Educational Museum, Okayama: Video Introduction Photo：Tsuyama Railroad Educational Museum This video, titled "[Tsuyama Railroad Educational Museum] A Great Facility for Kids! A Railway Museum Full of Learning and Discovery (Tsuyama, Okayama)" (【津山まなびの鉄道館】こどもたちも大喜び！まなびと発見がいっぱいの鉄道館（岡山県津山市）), was uploaded by "Okayama Haretabi: Okayama Prefecture Official Tourism Guide" (おかやまハレ旅:岡山県観光連盟). Check out what the facility is like in the short, 1-minute video! Tsuyama Railroad Educational Museum: Admission Fees, Opening Hours, and Facility Information Photo：A steam locomotive at the Tsuyama Railroad Educational Museum Tsuyama Railroad Educational Museum is a museum (railroad preservation and exhibition facility) that exhibits railway-related items, opened at Tsuyama Station in Tsuyama, Okayama, in Japan's Chugoku Region. The museum is operated by the Tsuyama City Tourist Agency. The former Tsuyama Fan-Shaped Locomotive Depot was reopened on April 2, 2008, with the aim of enabling visitors to enjoy learning about the relationship between society, regional development, and the railroad. In addition to trains, railway turntables, and a steam locomotive driving wheel, the facility includes a corner where visitors can learn about the history of railroads in Okayama and how railroads work. There is also an exhibition corner with a diorama of the cityscape of Tsuyama. Admission is 310 yen for adults, 100 yen for junior high school and elementary school students, and free for children not yet of elementary school age. The museum is open from 9:00 am to 16:00 pm and closed on Mondays. A Locomotive Depot With a One-Of-A-Kind Train Photo：A DE50-1 diesel locomotive at the Tsuyama Railroad Educational Museum The former Tsuyama Fan-Shaped Locomotive Depot, built in 1936, is the second largest existing facility of its kind in Japan, following the Kyoto Railway Museum in Umekoji, Kyoto. The fan-shaped locomotive depot has 17 tracks and is 22.1m (72.5 ft) deep, and displays a total of 13 locomotives, including a DD51 diesel locomotive, KiHa 58 and KiHa 28 diesel locomotives, and a KiHa 181 diesel locomotive. The highlight of the Tsuyama Railroad Educational Museum is the DE50-1 diesel locomotive. This diesel locomotive is equipped with a high-horsepower engine, and only one was manufactured in Japan in 1970. This diesel locomotive is a must-see for railroad fans, and is only exhibited in Japan at the Tsuyama Railroad Educational Museum. Another eye-catching feature of the museum is the steam locomotive driving wheel. The driving wheel belong to a JNR Class C57 No. 68, the largest size of steam locomotives of its kind in Japan, and is 5 ft. 8 in. across and weighs 3,480kg (3.8 tons). The powerful whistle of the Class D51 No. 755 steam locomotive is sounded at 12:00 pm and 3:00 pm on days when the museum is normally open, delighting the ears of visitors. Family-Friendly Facilities Photo：A diorama in the Machinami Room at the Tsuyama Railroad Educational Museum In addition to exhibits such as steam locomotives, the Tsuyama Railroad Educational Museum is also equipped with family-friendly facilities that children and families can enjoy together. First, visitors can learn about the history of railroads in Okayama and how they work through hands-on activities. The Ayumi Room introduces the history of the Okayama Railroad and events from when railroads first appeared in Japan up to the present day. In the Shikumi Room, visitors can learn about the technology and ingenuity used to ensure the safety and comfort of the railroads, using hands-on equipment. Next is the Machinami Room, which displays a diorama of the Tsuyama cityscape. Visitors can see N scale model trains running through the Tsuyama cityscape, which even includes the former Tsuyama Fan-Shaped Locomotive Depot. It's an enjoyable time for both children and train enthusiasts. You can also learn about the history through photos, tickets, timetables used during that period, and retro station name plates. The Tsuyama Railroad Educational Museum also has a Manabi Room that can be used for field trips, where a DVD introducing the Tsuyama Railroad Educational Museum is shown together with an orientation session. There are also railway-related souvenirs that can only be purchased here, goods made in collaboration with the Kyoto Railway Museum, and original goods of the Tsuyama Railroad Educational Museum are also available. Other Things to Do in Tsuyama Here are some other things places to throw on your itinerary when visiting Tsuyama. Tsuyama Castle Photo：Tsuyama Castle, Okayama Tsuyama Castle is a castle built by order of Mori Tadamasa, a military commander of the Warring States period, and younger brother of Mori Ranmaru, who was killed in the Honnoji Incident (the assassination of Oda Nobunaga). Although the main castle tower was demolished in accordance with Haijo Edict (a law abolishing castles in Japan during the Meiji Period), many other structures still remain, and spring sees the blooming of cherry blossoms around the castle. Hours: (April - September) 8:40 am - 7:00 pm, (October - March) 8:40 am - 5:00 pm. ※7:30 am - 10:00 pm during the Tsuyama Cherry Blossom Festival Admission Fee: (Adults) 310 yen. Middle school students and younger are free ※Discounts are available for groups of 30 or more. Shurakuen Garden Photo：Shurakuen Garden, Okayama Shurakuen Garden is a Japanese garden located in Tsuyama, Okayama, that was built in 1658 by Mori Nagatsugu, the lord of the Tsuyama Domain. The garden has beautiful ponds and is a great place to go for a walk. Visitors to the garden can enjoy viewing cherry blossoms in spring, water lilies in summer, and beautiful autumn leaves in the fall. Hours: (April - October) 7:00 am - 8:00 pm, (November - March) 7:00 am - 5:00 pm. Admission Fee: Free Summary of the Tsuyama Railroad Educational Museum Photo：Tsuyama Railroad Educational Museum The Tsuyama Railroad Educational Museum is a family-friendly facility that can be enjoyed by children and adults alike. It's a valuable facility for passing on the valuable history of railroads to future generations, as it's designed to help elementary and junior high school students deepen their understanding of railroads. The Tsuyama Railroad Educational Museum has a parking lot that can accommodate approximately 35 cars, making it possible for families to visit by car. That being said, if you're a train enthusiast, you'll probably enjoy coming by train! The museum also hosts various events, such as a quiz rally and a train-washing experience. If you're traveling to Okayama and looking for things to do, consider stopping by! 【Official Website】Tsuyama Railroad Educational Museum 【TripAdvisor】Tsuyama Railroad Educational Museum

About Hachioji's Promotional Tourism Video The video, titled "Hachioji Promotional Video 'Colorful Life'" (八王子市シティプロモーション動画「Colorful Life」), was uploaded by "HachiojiCityOffice." It captures the various charms of Hachioji. Being a part of the Greater Tokyo metropolitan area, Hachioji features many shopping districts such as "CELEO," a mall that is attached to the station. But being the closest hiking destination from Tokyo is what makes it popular among the city dwellers who day trip up there to get some fresh air. Hosting as many as 23 university campuses, Hachioji is also known as a college town. There are many historical and cultural sites where one can be exposed to Japanese culture and tradition as well. In this article, we'll introduce popular tourist spots in Hachioji alongside the video. The video includes a powerful image of a basketball game that the local team, "Tokyo Hachioji Bee Trains," is playing in. It also showcases the natural scenery that makes Hachioji a popular day-trip destination for local Tokyoites. Take a Hike and View Hachioji From the Summit of Mt. Takao Source :YouTube screenshot Hachioji is a popular natural recreational area in Tokyo. From 0:06, the video captures refreshing images of Hachioji's natural environment such as the "Takatsuki paddy field zone" (the largest agricultural zone in the Tokyo metropolitan area), or the stunning rows of Ginkgo trees. Mt. Takao is the most popular natural attraction in Hachioji. The 2,000 ft. tall mountain debuts at 0:32. Awarded 3 stars by the Michelin Green Guide, it is the most visited mountain in the world, with 2.6 million visitors annually. There's also a chair lift and cable-car that can take you halfway up the mountain, which makes it suitable for casual climbers as well. Climbers can enjoy a beautiful view and magnificent autumn colors, as well as the get an overlook of the city of Tokyo. Source :YouTube screenshot Introduced from 1:09 is "Takaosan Beer Mount," a renowned beer garden where we you can enjoy a stunning night view from up high. It even offers a view of the urban core of Tokyo or Yokohama on clear days. The open air beer garden and breathtaking view are sure to get you in the spirit for some spirits! The temple introduced at 2:03 is Mt. Takao Yakuoin, which is said to be a very spiritual site. The statue found by the cable-car stop is of Saburo Kitajima, a well-known Japanese enka singer who lives in Hachioji. The statue is popular among Instagrammers! Hachioji’s Gastro Culture! Source :YouTube screenshot Don't forget to explore the foodie attractions during your trip to Hachioji. The video introduces some recommended restaurants and local dishes as well. Spotlighted from 0:39 is a bakery "Boule Beurre Boulangerie". The specialties here are the butter-rich croissants or pain au fruit with walnuts. Photo：Hachioji Ramen Hachioji Ramen is a great choice for lunch as well! Its distinguishing features are the simple soy sauce-based soup and the chopped onion topping. There are also many different Hachioji Ramen specialty restaurants around the train station. The most celebrated ramen restaurant is "Goemon" located by the JR Chuo Line Nishihachioji Station, which is introduced at 0:55. The image is sure to make your mouth water. Other hidden gems throughout the city include "Nameko-jiru" (Miso-soup with Nameko mushrooms) of Shiroyama Chaya, a tea-house that sits on the summit of Shiroyama, the Konnyaku of the long standing shop "Nakano-Ya," or the old-fashioned izakaya "Shimura Hall"'s Satsuma-age (deep fried fish paste). "Hachioji Neapolitan," a favorite among the locals, is also a must-try. In 2019, the breakout TV celebrity Roland opened his bubble tea store "The Pearl" in Hachioji. Hachioji also features farmers' markets such as "FIO" (FIO野菜直売所) or "Juke Juke" (ジュークジューク) to provide a direct sale of locally grown organic vegetables. Japanese History and Culture in Hachioji Source :YouTube screenshot There are many cultural or historic sites and events in Hachioji. The Hachioji Festival in August is the city's primary event. The parade floats, gorgeous Mikoshi (portable shrines) carried around the city, and the Lion Dance performance are the highlights of the festival that attract many visitors from the Kanto area. Some other notable cultural or historic sites/events are: Hachioji Kuruma Ningyo (a traditional puppet theater), Hachioji Geisha, Hachioji Firework Festival, Tokyo Fuji Art Museum, Mt. Takao Trick Art Museum, Musashi Imperial Graveyard, Takaosan Yakuoin Yukiji Temple, Hachioji Castle, Takiyama Castle, Nakamachi Kurobei (black wall) district (a remnant of old geisha district), and the Okuda silkscreen factory. The rows of ginkgo trees shown in the video from 0:53 were planted by the Imperial Household Agency in 1929 to commemorate the completion of the Musashi Imperial Graveyard. The annual Ginkgo Festival is held in November along the Koshu Kaido Road where the stunning ginkgo trees are lined up. A Summary on the Introduction of Hachioji Photo：Hachioji, Minamiasa River cherry blossoms The Hachioji promotional video captures the charm of the city that's a hometown to many different Japanese musicians, comedians, and TV personalities. Featuring Mt. Takao that captures the attentions of instagrammers, Hachioji is a great destination for a wide range of travelers. Having turned 100 years old in 2018, Hachioji is a city loved by many people. We definitely recommend giving it a visit! 【Tripadvisor】Hachioji https://www.tripadvisor.com/Tourism-g1060898-Hachioji_Tokyo_Prefecture_Kanto-Vacations.html

Video introduction of "Mt. Takao Beer Mount" in Hachioji City, Tokyo This video, titled "Solo Drinks at a Beer Garden - Mt. Takao Beer Mount" (おひとりさまでもビアガーデン・高尾山「ビアマウント」で呑む), was uploaded by "furo1010." In the video, furo1010 is shown heading to Mt. Takao Beer Mount. With its beautiful scenery, delicious food, and tasty beer, Mt. Takao Beer Mount is a place you'd want to visit even if you are not a mountaineer or a hiking enthusiast. Be sure to check out the video to see how the buffet-style food and beer, as well as local sake and other beverages, are enjoyed. Mt. Takao Beer Mount – Experience Hospitality at 488 Meters Above Sea Level! A Look at the Event's Nearly 70 Years of History Photo：Mt. Takao Beer Mount (beer garden), Mt. Takao Located in Hachioji, Tokyo, in Japan's Kanto region, Mt. Takao boasts the largest number of climbers in the world. In the summer, the observation deck restaurant, which is adjacent to the Mt. Takao cable car, transforms into Mt. Takao Beer Mount and hosts a beer garden. Mt. Takao Beer Mount is a beer garden that began in 1954 as a film festival and summer evening karaoke contest held to encourage the use of the Mt. Takao cable car and has been ongoing for nearly 70 years. The view from the top terrace of the observation deck restaurant—located 488 meters above sea level—is spectacular, offering a panoramic view from the Tokyo cityscape to the Boso Peninsula during the day. It's also a popular spot on Japanese Instagram for its beautiful night views. Being just an hour away from central Tokyo, you can enjoy delicious food and beverages while surrounded by nature at Mt. Takao Beer Mount. When does the 2024 Beermount start? Learn about the duration and fees! Photo：Mt. Takao Beer Mount (beer garden), Hachioji, Tokyo The Mt. Takao Beer Mount has been held as usual since 2022. In 2024, it will be open from Saturday, June 15 to Tuesday, October 15, from 1:00 pm to 9:00 pm. The price for all-you-can-eat and drink is 5,000 yen for adults, 4,700 yen for seniors (65 and older), 2,800 yen for junior high school students, 1,800 yen for elementary school students, and 500 yen for infants (3 years old to under elementary school students). It is a great opportunity to enjoy delicious gourmet food and a wide variety of beverages at this price with all-you-can-eat and all-you-can-drink options. Please enjoy it with your family and friends. Food at Mt. Takao Beer Mount – The Perfect Dishes to Go With Your Beer! Photo：The buffet at Mt. Takao Beer Mount (beer garden) Dishes served buffet style will include Japanese, Western, and Chinese menu items. [Video] 2:55 - Buffet-Style Dishes Among the dishes we recommend are local specialties of Hachioj, including salads using vegetables grown in Hachioji and Hachioji Ramen. [Video] 4:00 - Local Specialties of Hachioji, Tokyo The beer goes perfect with the delicious food, and there's beers being served from four major breweries, allowing you to sample a variety of flavors. [Video] 4:13 - Beers From 4 Major Breweries In addition to beer, there's a wide range of beverages, including sake, sours, highballs, etc. Of course, non-alcoholic drinks for children are also available. [Video] 4:52 - A Wide Selection of Alcoholic Beverages Mt. Takao Beer Mount is a great place to enjoy delicious food and drinks, and is recommended for both families and solo guests alike. Information About Wait Times, Crowding, Recommended Seats, Reservations, and More! Mt. Takao Beer Mount has approximately 500 seats and all guests can enjoy the buffet for up to 2 hours. Although there are many seats, the beer garden can be quite crowded on weekends and during the Bon Festival, so be sure to keep this in mind if you're planning on visiting. If you want to enjoy the restaurant without any hassle, we recommend making reservations in advance. Reservations can be made for a minimum of 4 people on weekdays, and for 10 or more people on weekends and holidays. The best seats at Mt. Takao Beer Mount are on the top floor, called the slab. The night views from here are incredible. For those who want to enjoy nature, we recommend the garden surrounded by the forest. You can dine while relaxing in nature. The indoor hall is perfect for rainy or windy days. For rainy days, there's no need to worry, as there is also tent seating set up in the outdoor area. Use the Cable Car for Easy Access to the Mt. Takao Beer Mount Photo：Mt. Takao cable car To get to Mt. Takao, where the beer garden is located, first take the Keio Line from Shinjuku for 53 minutes to Takaosanguchi Station. From Takaosanguchi Station, head to the Kiyotaki Station cable car, a 5-minute walk away. Take the cable car (a 6-minute ride) and get off at Mt. Takao Station to reach the venue. Mt. Takao Beer Mount can also be reached on foot without using the cable car. The food and drinks will taste even better after a nice hike up the mountain! Trail 1 – Hiking Mt. Takao as an Inexperienced Climber/Hiker Source :Hachinavi Mt. Takao Feature Mt. Takao is so famous among mountaineering enthusiasts that around 3 million climbers visit the mountain each year. For those who wish to hike up to the beer garden, here are some recommendations. To get to Takao Beer Mount on foot, we recommend Trail 1. There are seven trails on Mt. Takao: Trails 1-6 and the Inariyama Course. Trail 1 is easy for beginners to climb as most of the course is paved and there are rest areas. It takes approximately 100 minutes to reach the summit and around 60 minutes to reach the beer garden. After a nice workout, why not enjoy the beer garden with some friends in the outdoors? Things to Do Near Mt. Takao There are a number of things to do near Mt. Takao. Below we'll introduce some places we recommend checking out when visiting the area. Takaosan Yakuoin Temple Takaosan Yakuoin Temple is a temple located on Mt. Takao. They have many seasonal events, such as New Years events and Setsubun, and they even have a fire walking event that's held during March each year. The temple is a 20-minute walk from the same cable car used to access the beer garden. Hours: 9:00 am - 4:00 pm Admission Fee: Free Takao 599 Museum A museum with a relax atmosphere that features exhibits relating to the unique ecosystem on Mt. Takao. The museum is located just 4 minutes from Takaosanguchi Station by foot. Hours: April to November: 8:00 am - 5:00 pm (Last admission 4:30 pm), December to March: 8:00 am - 4:00 pm (Last admission 3:30). ※Hours are subject to change due to events. Admission Fee: Free ※Some events/exhibits may have an admission fee Keio Takaosan Onsen Gokurakuyu Keio Takaosan Onsen Gokurakuyu is a natural hot spring located at the foot of Mt. Takao. The facility offers hot springs and massages, as well as restaurants where you can enjoy delicious soba and sashimi after relaxing in the hot springs. The facility is a quick 2-minute walk from Takaosanguchi Station. Hours: 8:00 am - 10:45 pm (Last admission 10:00 pm) Admission Fee (Weekdays): Adults: 1,100 yen, Children: 550 yen (Weekends/Public holidays/Peak season): Adults: 1,300 yen, Children: 650 yen ※Peak season fees apply during the following periods: December 29 - January 3, Golden Week, mid-August, November 1 - November 30, and other dates ※Free admission for children under 3 Mt. Takao Monkey Park & Wild Plant Garden A monkey park on Mt. Takao home to some 70 monkeys. The park also features a garden with walkways made from tree cookies and beautiful autumn leaves in the fall. The park is a 3-minute walk along Trail 1 after taking the cable car to Takaosan Station. Hours: December - February: 9:30 am - 4:00 pm, March - April: 10:00 am - 4:30 pm, May - November: 9:30 am - 4:30 pm Admission Fee: Adults (Junior high school students and older): 430 yen, Children (Ages 3 and older): 210 yen Takao Trick Art Museum A museum full of mind-bending, Egyptian-themed optical illusion art where you can enjoy taking funny photos. The museum receives support from the Egyptian Embassy, and so the souvenir store has popular souvenirs imported directly from Egypt. The museum is a 2-minute walk from Takaosanguchi Station. Hours: April - November: 10:00 am - 6:00 pm, December - March: 10:00 am - 6:00 pm Closed: Thursdays Admission Fee (General): Adults: 1,300 yen, Junior high and high school students: 1,000 yen, Elementary school students: 700 yen, Young children (ages 4 and under): 500 yen (People with disabilities): Adults: 1,100 yen, Junior high and high school students: 800 yen, Elementary school students: 500 yen, Young children (ages 4 and under): 300 yen ※Discounts available for groups. Please see the official website for more information Summary of Mt. Takao Beer Mount Mt. Takao Beer Mount is held both in the summer and in the fall. Last year, it was held from October 19. The atmosphere is quite different during autumn, but just as enjoyable! Also, until the summer beer garden begins, the Mt. Takao Beer Buffet event is held, where visitors can enjoy barbecue cooked on an eco-friendly craft grill imported specially from Denmark. Mt. Takao, is a great place where visitors can enjoy both mountain climbing and gourmet food. Mt. Takao Beer Mount is the perfect for those looking to enjoy a cold beer to beat the summer heat! Relax and take a break from the daily grind and head to Mt. Takao Beer Mount, where you can enjoy nature, tasty food, and satisfying drinks! 【TripAdvisor】Mt. Takao Beer Mount

Mt. Tengu in Otaru, Hokkaido: Video Introduction This video, titled "Otaru Tenguyama (Mt. Tengu) - Enjoy a Spectacular View of the Sky｜Official PR Video" (札幌から一番近い 天空の絶景を存分に楽しめる小樽天狗山 -Mt.TENGU-｜公式PR動画), was uploaded by Otaru Tenguyama Ropeway. The video introduces various things to do on Otaru Tenguyama (Mt. Tengu), including a ropeway, beautiful views from the observation deck, a shrine and cafeteria at the top of Tenguyama, and more. There's no shortage of fun things to do on Mt. Tengu. What is Otaru Tenguyama? Photo：The view from Otaru Tenguyama, Hokkaido Otaru Tenguyama, aka Mt. Tengu, is a 532.4-meter-tall mountain located in Otaru, Hokkaido. It is a symbolic mountain of Otaru and overlooks the city of Otaru and the Sea of Japan. Otaru Tenguyama is approximately 15 minutes from the Otaru IC by car, and 17 minutes by bus from JR Otaru Station. You can also drive to the top of Mt. Tengu, but we recommend taking the ropeway if it's your first time visiting the mountain; the 30-seat ropeway takes roughly 4 minutes to reach the top, and offers a spectacular view of Otaru Bay, Ishikari Bay, and even the Shakotan Peninsula on a clear day. In the winter, you can enjoy skiing at a ski resort where two lifts are in operation. In the warmer months, there are zip lines, hot air balloon rides, mountain climbing/hiking, slides, and camping facilities that are popular during summer vacation. Otaru Tenguyama is an appealing tourist attraction that can be enjoyed all year round. Otaru Tenguyama (Mt. Tengu) – Observation Deck, Shrine, and Gorgeous Night Views Photo：Tenguu Terrace, Otaru Tenguyama, Hokkaido Here, we'll take a look at some things to do on Otaru Tenguyama. ・Observation Deck Otaru Tenguyama has five observation decks with different views. Tenguu Terrace, located at the Tengu Cherry Blossom Observatory, offers an unobstructed view from a wooden deck with no railing. Some visitors take pictures with their takeout drinks they ordered from the nearby TENGUU Café! [Video] 0:19 - Tenguu Terrace ・Mt. Tengu Shrine Mt. Tengu Shrine, located at the top of Mt. Tengu in Otaru, Hokkaido, is dedicated to the deity Sarutahiko. Located near the shrine is a large tengu, which is said to ward off evil and make wishes come true when its long nose is stroked. [Video] 0:37 - Mt. Tengu Shrine ・Night Views Otaru Tenguyama is also known for having one of the three best night views in Hokkaido. In addition to the Tenguu Terrace observation deck, the Manten Stage offers a night view of the highway and a starry sky. [Video] 1:55 - The Night View from Otaru Tenguyama Photo：Chipmunk Park, Otaru Tenguyama, Hokkaido ・Chipmunk Park Chipmunk Park is a park where you can see cute chipmunks up close and feed them. (The park is open from late May to mid-October.) [Video] 0:33 - Cute Squirrels at Chipmunk Park Winter at Otaru Tenguyama – Skiing & Fireworks One of the best things to do during winter at Otaru Tengu is enjoy some winter sports on the ski slopes, which offer a spectacular view of the area. Skiing while enjoying the view below is a great way to unwind and have some fun. Otaru Yuki Hanabi (Otaru Snow Fireworks) is a fireworks display held at the ski resort in December, and is a popular annual event. The 2022 Otaru Snow Fireworks was held on December 17, but the schedule for 2023 has yet to be determined. Please check the Otaru Yuki Hanabi official website for information regarding the 2023 event. Otaru Tenguyama – One of the Top 3 Nights Views of Hokkaido + Nearby Night Views Photo：The night view from Mt. Hakodate, Hokkaido Otaru Tenguyama is one of the top 3 night views of Hokkaido, along with Mt. Hakodate and Mt. Moiwa, but there are other lesser-known night view spots scattered around the area. Some recommended night view spots are the Asahi Observatory, which can be easily accessed via a 5-minute drive from Otaru Station; the Mount Kenashi View Point, a 30-minute drive from Otaru Station; and the illumination of the Otaru Canal, a famous tourist attraction in Otaru, Hokkaido. After enjoying the night view of Mt. Tengu, consider visiting one of these other locations. Other Things to Do in Otaru, Hokkaido Besides Otaru Tenguyama, there is a myriad of things to do in Otaru. Otaru Museum A museum offering a variety of activities with which to learn about the history and natural scenery of Otaru, Hokkaido. The museum is made up of two facilities: the main museum and the canal museum. The museums are located just 20 minutes apart and so its recommended that you visit both as there are also discounted tickets that can be used at both facilities. Hours: 9:30 am - 5:00 pm Admission Fee: General admission: 400 yen (winter 300 yen), high school students and senior citizens living in the area: 200 yen (winter 150 yen), Junior high school students and younger: free Otaru Aquarium Built in 1958, the Otaru Aquarium has a variety of exhibits, including penguins, dolphins, sea lions, etc. Children and adults alike can enjoy learning about the various marine life at the aquarium and even watch the impressive dolphin shows. The aquarium shop features a variety of cute stuffed animals and souvenirs to commemorate your trip. Hours: Mar. 18 - Oct.15 9:00 am - 5:00 pm (4:30 pm last admission) Oct. 16 - Nov. 26 9:00 am - 4:00 pm (3:30 pm last admission) Dec. 16 - Feb. 25 - 10:00 am - 4:00 pm (3:30 pm last admission) Admission Fee: Adults: 1,800 yen, Children: 700 yen, Young children (Ages 3 and under): 350 yen Otaru Canal The Otaru Canal is a 1,140-meter-long canal running through the city of Otaru. Built in 1923, the Otaru Canal was used to transport cargo from offshore. The canal is lined with 63 atmospheric street lights, and the buildings that line the canal, once used as warehouses, have been transformed into restaurants and other facilities. It's a scenic location to explore the history of Otaru. What to Eat in Otaru? Otaru is home to tons of delicious foods to try. Because Otaru is a port town, it has some of the freshest seafood that money can buy. You can enjoy sampling various types of sushi, seafood bowls and more. Besides seafood, we recommend trying Otaru Ankake Yakisoba, a famous food from Otaru. The dish features fried noodles, lots of sauce, and a variety of vegetables from Otaru and is sold in restaurants all over Otaru. Summary of Otaru Tenguyama Otaru Tenguyama is full of attractions all year round. After seeing all the amazing attractions in the video, don't be surprised if you're itching to visit the area this summer! In addition to the video introduced here, the Otaru Tenguyama Ropeway YouTube channel also offers live footage from the ropeway's cameras. You can check out the current view from Mt. Tengu and even night views from the mountain. Otaru Tengu is located relatively close to Sapporo, so consider stopping by if you're traveling in Hokkaido! Otaru Tenguyama Ropeway Information 【Address】Tenguyama, Otaru, Hokkaido 047-0012 【Operation Period】April 15 - November 5 【Hours】9:00 am - 9:00 pm 【Admission Fee】Adults: 1,600 yen, Children: 800 yen, Pets: 300 yen ※Discounts available for groups of 20 or more 【Parking】Available (Free) 【TripAdvisor】Otaru Tenguyama

Video Introduction of “Alley Aquarium” in Ponto-cho, Kyoto City, Kyoto Prefecture, Japan This video, titled "The Back Alley Aquarium of Pontocho" (先斗町　路地裏水族館), was uploaded by "KETO room." The most famous aquarium in Kyoto is Kyoto Aquarium located in Umekoji Park in Shimogyo, Kyoto, but did you know that there's actually an aquarium tucked away in Pontocho, one of Kyoto's famous geisha districts? The name of the aquarium is Roji Suizokukan (路地水族館, lit. Alley Aquarium). In this article, we'll introduce the unique aquarium, a popular tourist attraction in Kyoto, along with the streets of Pontocho. Pontocho, a Geisha District of Kyoto and Home to the Back-Alley Aquarium Photo：Pontocho, Kyoto Pontocho is an entertainment district located in Nakagyo, Kyoto, famous as a historic "hanamachi" (a district where geisha live and work) that has existed since Japan's Edo period (1603-1868 A.D.) Along its 550-meter-long street, there are many long-established traditional Japanese restaurants, establishments where geisha offer entertainment to guests, and a wide variety of other restaurants. The name Pontocho (先斗町) is actually said to originate from the Portuguese word "ponto," meaning "bridge," and the Japanese word "cho," meaning "town." Despite "cho" meaning "town" in Japanese, Pontocho is not a town at all, but rather a long, narrow street along Kyoto's Kamo River. Pontocho is a 5-minute walk from Kawaramachi Station on the Hankyu Line, or a 3-minute walk from Gion-Shijo Station on the Keihan Line. If you take the Tozai Subway Line and get off at Keihan Sanjo Station, you can reach Pontocho in 5 minutes on foot. Highlights of the Alley Aquarium in Pontocho, Kyoto Photo：Oryzias The entrance to Pontocho is to your right, just after crossing Shijo Ohashi Bridge and passing a police box, but it's a narrow street, so it's easy to miss if you're not careful. In a corner of an alleyway in Pontocho is the Alley Aquarium, a unique spot in Kyoto where you can see goldfish, oryzias, and koi swimming leisurely in tanks and bowls of various sizes along an alleyway less than one meter wide. Because it's located in an alley, the aquarium can be viewed in the morning or at night without having to worry about business hours, which is another attraction of the back-alley aquarium. When the sun begins to set, the aquarium is lit up and becomes a photogenic space. The fantastic atmosphere is great for taking Instagram photos. Another great point is that admission is free. A donation box to help pay for food, which has an illustration of the aquarium's director, Rakko san (Mr. Sea Otter), is located at the entrance of the Alley Aquarium, so if you want to help out, feel free to drop him a donation. The Alley Aquarium grew in popularity after being posted on Japanese social media, and since then it has become a unique thing to do in Kyoto. The director's cute signboard can be seen in various spots throughout the Alley Aquarium. [Video] 0:53 - Donation Box [Video] 1:04 - Sea Otter Director's Cute Sign Pyon Pyoko Pyon – A Cute Trinket Shop in Pontocho For Souvenirs Photo：Goldfish The couple behind the alley aquarium is the owner and operator of Usagi no Atorie Pyon Pyoko Pyon. Pyon Pyoko Pyon is a store in an alley in Pontocho that sells rabbit-themed goods, and the store is filled with rabbit tableware, chopstick rests, and other trinkets. The mascots of the store are Usakichi and Chibikichi, two Shigaraki-ware bunnies dressed in seasonal costumes, which help visitors feel relaxed and at home. You can also check the store's information on Instagram @pontocho.usagiya. After enjoying the old-fashioned atmosphere and ambience of Pontocho and relaxing with the colorful fish swimming in the alley aquarium, be sure to stop by Pyon Pyoko Pyon to get some souvenirs of your travels to Kyoto. [Video] 0:58 - Goldfish Swimming in an Aquarium [Video] 2:32 - The Elegant Atmosphere of Pontocho The Best Restaurants in Pontocho Photo：Kamogawa Noryodoko, Kyoto Kamogawa Noryodoko, a row of kawadoko (elevated platforms that sit above a reiver) along the Kamogawa River, is a summer tradition in Kyoto. Although many of the kawadoko that line Kyoto's Kamogawa River are expensive, there are actually a number of restaurants where you can enjoy the kawadoko for a reasonable price. One such place is "mag," a relaxing café tucked away in an alley, that's popular for its cute latte art. It's the perfect place to take a breather. After savoring a delicious cup of coffee at "mag," located inside an alley between Kiyamachi and Pontocho, you can enjoy a casual kawadoko experience at Ponto-cho Robin. Although a more casual experience, the restaurant is reasonably priced and is a great way to experience the Kyoto summer tradition. While the number of terrace-type restaurants has been increasing in recent years, the traditional kawadoko style at Pontocho Robin, where you can relax and stretch your legs, has great reviews. The kawadoko lunch at Pontocho Robin is available until the end of September. [Video] 2:46 - Kamogawa River Kawadoko, a Summer Tradition in Kyoto Appearing at the end of the video is the popular Kyoto Sanjo Ohashi Starbucks Coffee, which also offers kawadoko seating. You can enjoy the starry skies from Kyoto and the sound of the river while relaxing at night here. [Video] 3:03 - Kyoto Sanjo Ohashi Starbucks Other popular restaurants in Pontocho are the izakaya Pontocho Sakaba, and the Michelin Guide restaurant Pontocho Masuda, but there are many more places to grab a bite to eat, so don't be afraid to look around. In 2023, Kyoto's kawadoko are scheduled to be set up from May to September. Be sure to check them out if you're visiting Kyoto! Things to Do Near Pontocho There are a number exciting things to do near Pontocho, but our personal recommendation is the stretch between Pontocho and Maruyama Park, as the area has many things to do, making it an efficient way to spend your time. Maruyama Park Maruyama Park is located 10-15 minutes from Pontocho and is home to the beautiful Yasaka Shrine, as well as Chionin Temple and Shorenin Temple, two temples with breathtaking gardens. The park is famous for its cherry blossoms during the spring, so if you're visiting when they're in bloom, definitely check them out. Additionally, the walk to Maruyama Park will take you across the famous Shijo Ohashi Bridge, and along Shijo Dori, a street full of restaurants, souvenir shops, and tons of other interesting places. Here, you'll also find Hanamikoji Street, another popular geisha district in Kyoto with historic buildings and an atmosphere that seems to have been frozen in time. Minamiza Kakubi Theatre Minamiza Kakubi Theatre, located just across Shijo Ohashi Bridge, between Pontocho and Maruyama Park, is the last of 7 kabuki theatres that once existed in Kyoto. The theatre dates back 400 years, and kabuki performances are still held at the theatre regularly. If you're interested in Japanese performing arts, or just want to see what a Japanese play is like, definitely check it out. The theatre does have English headsets available for non-Japanese audiences, but not for all performances, so be sure to check the official website for more information. Summary of the Alley Aquarium in Kyoto's Pontocho Located in Pontocho, the Alley Aquarium is a unique tourist attraction in Kyoto, tucked away in the elegant streets of the town. You can see a variety of colorful fish swimming in aquariums and pots of all sizes, and at night the aquarium is lit up, giving it a fantastic atmosphere. The couple behind the alley aquarium is the same couple who run the trinket shop Pyon Pyoko Pyon, and their cute rabbit-themed goods make great souvenirs. There are also a number of restaurants in Pontocho where you can enjoy kawadoko along the Kamo River. If you're traveling in Kyoto and looking for things to do, consider checking out the Alley Aquarium in Pontocho. It's also great for dates! For the latest information, be sure to check out the Alley Aquarium on Instagram @rakko_aqua_pontocho. 【TripAdvisor】Pontocho

Video Introduction of Mobility Resort Motegi/Camp Village, Haga-gun, Tochigi, Japan This video, titled "[Mobility Resort Motegi] Starry Sky Forest Camping Village｜Lotus Tents Promo Video" (【モビリティリゾートもてぎ】森と星空のキャンプヴィレッジ　ロータステントPV), was created by Mobility Resort Motegi (モビリティリゾートもてぎ). Mobility Resort Motegi is located in Motegi, Tochigi, in Japan's Kanto region. It has a camping field called Starry Sky Forest Camping Village Mobility Resort Motegi next to a popular circuit where some of the world's top races are held. What is Mobility Resort Motegi? Photo：Hello Woods, Mobility Resort Motegi Mobility Resort Motegi, formerly known as Twin Ring Motegi, is a theme park in Motegi, Tochigi where visitors can enjoy motor sports and the great outdoors. Mobility Resort Motegi, owned by Honda Mobilityland, changed its name in 2022 to coincide with the merger of Suzuka Circuitland Co., Ltd. And Twin Ring Motegi Co., Ltd. Mobility Resort Motegi is a family-friendly theme park. In the park area, you can enjoy an adventure course and rides and explore nature in a forest. At Hello Woods, you can go for a ride on ziplines. There's also the Starry Sky Forest Camping Village where you can enjoy glamping (a fancy type of camping where gear is provided for you), BBQ, and relaxing hotels. If you're a fan of motorsports, the Honda Collection Hall, with approximately 300 Honda automobiles and motorcycles on display, is a must-see attraction. [Video] 0:13 - The Camping Area Surrounded by Nature Located Near the Circuit Camping, Glamping, and Log Cabins! Outdoor Activities at Starry Sky Forest Camping Village Photo：Camping There are three ways to spend time with family and friends at Starry Sky Forest Camping Village at Mobility Resort Motegi: ・Camping Pitch a tent and enjoy the outdoors with a relaxing fire. ・Glamping A fancy camping experience for those looking to enjoy the outdoors without the hassle of setting up and taking down tents. ・Log cabins Enjoy the outdoors in any season thanks to the log cabins that even come with air conditioning. [video] 0:36 - Glamping in Lotus Tents Things to Do at Mobility Resort Motegi: Athletic Activities and More! Photo：An aerial view of Mobility Resort Motegi Here, we'll introduce some popular activities at Mobility resort Motegi. ・Mega zipline: Wing Enjoy a view of nature and the nearby race track from the sky with this 1,837 foot-long-zipline at Hello Woods. ・Forest Obstacle Course: DOKIDOKI A huge, tree-climbing athletic facility that resembles an acorn tree. This popular activity features 39 difficulty levels, allowing everyone from elementary school students to adults to enjoy the challenge. ・Forest Labyrinth: ITADAKI A three-dimensional maze themed on the ecosystem of the park's forests, where visitors collect stamps from 14 locations on their way to the top. The huge animals and plants are really impressive. ・Forest Family Walk: TEKUTEKU Visitors can enjoy a game-like stroll through the Hello Woods' forest, while taking pictures, learning, and relaxing. ・Attractions Featuring Cars and Motorcycles There are more than 10 attractions for people of all ages and experience levels. Visitors can drive a car with a driving school motif, as well as motorcycles, off-road vehicles, and even race cars. In addition, there are many other original activities available only for a limited period of time to enjoy nature and activities limited to guests only. Please check the official website for more information! Glamping at Mobility Resort Motegi: Rates, Meal Fees, Etc. Photo：A t-bone steak Various glamping plans are available at Mobility Resort Motegi, including those that can be enjoyed in both rotary tents and bell tents, and which offer a full range facilities. Plans include a half-board plan that includes a T-bone steak BBQ dinner and breakfast using fresh, local ingredients, a plan that includes a pass to the park, and an overnight plan that allows guests to bring their own food and cooking equipment and enjoy their stay how they please. We also recommend checking out their original accommodation plans, such as the Birthday Plan. The price per "room" starts from 25,800 yen (~$182 USD) for an overnight stay in the lotus tents with no meals included. How to Get to Mobility Resort Motegi (Motegi Circuit) There are several ways to get to Mobility Resort Motegi, and here we'll list a few of them. Mobility Resort Motegi From Tokyo Station (Shinkansen) To get to Mobility Resort Motegi from Tokyo Station, take the shinkansen to Utsunomiya Station (50 mins) and then from Utsunomiya Station, take a bus (90 mins) or taxi (60 mins) to Mobility Resort Motegi. Mobility Resort Motegi From Tokyo Station (Local Train) From Tokyo Station, take the Limited Express train to Mito (80 mins) and then take a bus to Mobility Resort Motegi (90 mins). Mobility Resort Motegi From Haneda Airport and Narita Airport If you're wondering how to get to Mobility Resort Motegi from Haneda or Narita Airport, the easiest way is to first make your way to Tokyo Station and then use one of the two routes above. Summary of Mobility Resort Motegi Surrounded by a natural forest, Mobility Resort Motegi is the perfect place to get away from your hectic daily life. Mobility Resort Motegi also has great reviews, with many people saying that they were able to enjoy themselves all day without getting bored and wanting to visit again. Glamping is also a great option for those with small children. If you're visiting the race track to enjoy some motorsports, consider staying at the nearby camping/glamping area and enjoying a night under the stars with some BBQ! 【Official Website】Mobility Resort Motegi 【TripAdvisor】Mobility Resort Motegi

Video introduction of craftsmanship at Kyogoku Kaneyo, an eel specialty restaurant in Kyoto City, Kyoto Prefecture This video, titled "Kyogoku Kaneyo: A Grilled Eel Master in Kyoto｜the Art of an Eel Master Who Has Been Serving Grilled Eel for 58 Years" (５８年間ひたすら鰻を焼き続けた鰻爺の職人技「京極　かねよ」), was uploaded by "WAZAIRO." It showcases the artisanal skills of the chef, from how the unagi (freshwater eel) is prepared to how the fluffy Japanese omelette is placed on top. What Is Kabayaki? Photo：Eel kabayaki Kabayaki is a method of cooking used in Japan wherein long, thin, scaleless fish are skewered and grilled in a teriyaki style (grilled while covered in a sweet soy sauce marinade). In Japan, this style of cooking is mainly used to prepare eel, but is also used to cook a number of other fish. Records show that kabayaki has existed in Japan since at least the late 1,300s, although the cooking method was different than that of modern day kabayaki. Chawanmushi, the Perfect Umami Flavor to Go With Your Unagi Photo：Chawanmushi The video shows the atmosphere of the restaurant and you can hear all of the appliances, etc. used in the restaurant as well. The chawanmushi (Japanese steamed egg custard), which can be ordered for 600 yen, is a must-try. [Video] 0:45 - How Chawanmushi is Made Kansai-Style vs Kanto-Style Eel – The Different Styles of Eel in Japan After sitting in an ice bath for some time, the eels are then skillfully prepared by the chef. Although "Kaneyo" is a restaurant in Kyoto, they use the Kanto-style of preparing and grilling eels, known as "Edoyaki." Let's take a look at the differences between Kansai-style and Kanto-style eel. Kansai-style: The eels are opened from the belly, skewered without being steamed, and then grilled with the head still on the skewer and removed later. Kanto-style: The eels are opened from the back, steamed, skewered, and the head is removed before grilling. In the video, the eel is dexterously skewered and steamed by the chef. The steamed eel is dipped into the sauce and then broiled. The eels are grilled rapidly, with the cooking conditions carefully monitored by the skilled chef. [Video] 2:04 - Preparing and Cooking Eel What is Kinshi-don? The Specialty of Kyogoku Kaneyo Photo：Kinshi-don kinshi-don is the signature dish of Kyogoku Kaneyo, but what is it exactly? Kinshi-don refers to an eel bowl with a fluffy Japanese egg on top. In the video, you can see how the fluffy egg is cooked between two stoves with different heat levels, adjusting the heat to get the perfect omelette. The resulting dish, with a large, fluffy egg protruding from the bowl is both photogenic and delicious! Underneath the egg you'll find the perfectly cooked eel. Peeling back the egg to see the delicious eel underneath is part of what makes this dish such a treat. [Video] 15:40 - Cooking the Egg Used for Kinshi-don A Summertime Eel Eating Tradition in Japan Photo：Unaju Eel is known to be rich in vitamins, and as such, it became tradition to eat it during the summer months to ward off the fatigue caused by Japan's hot summers. The most common day for this is Doyo no Ushi no Hi, or "The Midsummer Day of the Ox." In 2023, this day falls on July 30 (Mon.). If you're looking to try some tasty Japanese eel, consider trying it on a hot summer day to beat the heat! Unagi vs Anago: The Different Types of Eel in Japan Photo：Anago (conger eel) sushi There are two types of eel commonly eaten in Japan: unagi and anago. Unagi is a freshwater eel, whereas anago (conger eel) is a saltwater eel. In terms of flavor, unagi (うなぎ) is known to have a richer flavor, while anago are said to have a lighter flavor. Because of this, unagi is often prepared in a kabayaki style, while anago is often steamed or prepared as tempura. As for nutrients, unagi generally has far more vitamins than anago. Kyogoku Kaneyo, a Restaurant in Kyoto You Don't Want to Miss! Kyogoku Kaneyo is located in downtown Kawaramachi, in the Nakagyo Ward of Kyoto. Founded in the early Taisho period (1912-1926), the restaurant boasts a traditional Japanese atmosphere and the same delicious taste, with eel grilled using a secret sauce that has been passed down for 100 years. The superb dishes have even earned it a spot in the Kyoto Michelin Guide. The second-floor tatami room has a relaxing atmosphere, and yose performances are held there each month. If you're into rakugo and other Japanese performance arts, we recommend checking it out. ◆Kyogoku Kaneyogura◆ 【Address】456 Matsugaecho, Nakagyo Ward, Kyoto, 604-8034 【Telephone】075-221-0669 【Closed】Closed on Wednesdays 【Parking】No private parking lot, please use a nearby paid parking lot 【Access】 -From JR Kyoto Station, take the No. 5 city bus to Kawaramachi Sanjo (河原町三条) and walk 2 minutes. -A 5-minute walk from Kyoto City Hall on the Tozai Subway Line -A 5-minute walk from Sanjo Keihan Station on the Keihan Main Line

The Yaeyama Islands, the Pride of Okinawa: Video Introduction This video, titled "[4K] Spectacular Aerial Views: Yaeyama Islands, Okinawa (Ishigaki Island, Hatoma Island, Aragusuku Island, Kuroshima Island, Iriomote Island)" (【沖縄/石垣島/竹富島/浜島/幻の島】石垣島観光スポット　絶対行くべき幻の島（浜島）), was uploaded by "AQUA GeoGraphic," a channel that mainly uploads underwater videos of Japan, as well as nature videos and other clips of Japan and abroad. In this video, you will see the spectacular view of the sea of the Yaeyama Islands. Where Are the Yaeyama Islands? The Yaeyama Islands are a group of 12 islands, including Ishigaki Island, Taketomi Island, Kohama Island, Kuroshima Island, Aragusuku Island, Iriomote Island, Hateruma Island, and Yonaguni Island. They occupy one fourth of the total area of Okinawa Prefecture. Check out the aerial and underwater footage of the beautiful sea of the Yaeyama Islands in the video! Kabira Bay – A Scenic Location 40 Minutes From New Ishigaki Airport Photo：Kabira Bay, Ishigaki Island Kabira Bay is located about 40 minutes away from New Ishigaki Airport, the gateway to the Yaeyama Islands, by car. The color of the sea changes depending on the time of day you view it from, and the scenery afforded by the uninhabited islands scattered throughout the bay is simply breathtaking. The view of the bay has been selected as one of the "Top 100 Landscapes of Japan." The Beauty of Kabira Bay has earned it three stars in the Michelin Green Guide Japan. Popular Scuba Diving Spots on Ishigaki Island! Photo：Scuba diving on Ishigaki Island, Okinawa There are many beautiful scuba diving spots and must-see locations around Ishigaki Island. Here are a few places we recommend checking out: ・Kabira-Ishizaka Manta Scramble (川平石崎マンタスクランブル) - A place scuba diving spot where you can dive with manta rays ・Yoshiwara Arch (吉原アーチ) - A fantastical underwater scuba diving spot where the light shines beautifully through the exit of the arch ・Jukabijin (樹下美人) - A tree-shaped root with schools of fish dancing around it ・Arakawa Double Arch (荒川Ｗアーチ) - An arch with two tunnels, crevasses, and other terrain ・Yonehara Double Reef (米原Ｗリーフ) - A scuba diving spot that can be enjoyed by beginners and expert divers alike These are only some of the scuba diving spots you can find on Ishigaki Island, but there are many more. Things to Do on Hatoma Island – A Lesser-Known Destination in Okinawa Hatoma Island is a small island with a population of just 50 people. Although the island does not attract as many people as other tourist sites, it's a place where humans and animals coexist in harmony. With beautiful sandy beaches and coral reefs there's plenty to enjoy here. You can even see wild goats in town. Both children and adults can enjoy snorkeling on the sandy white beaches. Legends of Mermaids on Aragusuku Island Photo：Aragusuku Island, Taketomi, Okinawa Aragusuku Island is said to have once been inhabited by dugongs, and you can even find Ningyo Shrine (人魚神社, lit. 'Mermaid Shrine') on the island that only islanders are allowed to enter. It's a mysterious island with many other forbidden areas. Aragusuku Island consists of two islands, Kamiji Island and Shimoji Island, which are not accessible by regular boats and can only be reached via tours departing from Ishigaki Island or Iriomote Island with local guides. The islands are known as snorkeling spots where you can enjoy nature. Things to Do on Kuroshima Island – A Unique, Heart-Shaped Island With Fresh Air, Sea Turtles, and More! Photo：Kuroshima Island, Okinawa Kuroshima Island is known as "Heart Island" because of its heart-like shape. It is also known as a nesting ground for sea turtles, and the island is home to the Kuroshima Research Institute, which researches sea turtles and other marine life. Interestingly, the cow population on Kuroshima is 10 times that of the human population, so visitors can enjoy a magnificent view of cows dotting the landscape. Visitors also can enjoy swimming and snorkeling at Nakamoto Beach, located on the west side of the island. Jungle Tours and Cave Exploration on Iriomote Island, the Last Unexplored Island in Japan Photo：A jungle tour on Iriomote Island, Okinawa Iriomote Island is referred to as "the last unexplored island in Japan" and is covered with pristine subtropical virgin forests and mangrove forests at many river mouths. Iriomote Island offers many activities to enjoy its great nature, including scuba diving, kayaking, spelunking, and jungle trekking tours. Other Things to Do on the Yaeyama Islands! Photo：A starry sky from the Yaeyama Islands In addition to the islands mentioned above, there are several other remote islands in the Yaeyama Islands which have their own charms. Hateruma Island, the southernmost inhabited island in Japan, is home to the beautiful sea dubbed Hateruma Blue and starry skies, which are a prime location for stargazing. To get to Hateruma Island, you'll have to take a high-speed boat (ferry) from Ishigaki Island. Taketomi Island, a small island southwest of Ishigaki Island, is a popular remote island where you can fully experience the tropical atmosphere of Okinawa. The buffalo cart tour, which takes you to traditional Okinawan houses with red-tile roofs, banyan trees, coral trees, and other seasonal flowers, all while listening to Okinawan folk songs played by the guide, is extremely popular. Kohama Island, located on the east side of Iriomote Island, is one of the leading resort areas in the Yaeyama Islands. Although Kohama Island is home to famous resort hotels, much of the nature on the island remains untouched, and there is even a famous road called Sugar Road that passes through the middle of sugar cane fields. It's a popular location that has been used in many Japanese television dramas. Yonaguni Island, Japan's westernmost island, is full of attractions, such as Tategami Rock (Standing God Rock) and Gunkan Rock (Battleship Rock). Yonaguni Island is also home to a hill where you can view the last sunset in Japan each day, as well as spots that are thought to be underwater ruins. In addition to scuba diving, you can enjoy glass boat and snorkeling tours as well. In addition, tourists to Yonaguni Island can purchase souvenirs in the souvenir store at Yonaguni Airport to commemorate their trip to the island. For example, you can buy hanasake (a special type of spirit, made only on Yonaguni island, with 60% alcohol content), as well as straps and drawstrings made of Yonaguni ori (Yonaguni brocade), a vivid fabric with 500 years of history. How to Get to the Yaeyama Islands & Visiting Other Islands: Ferry Schedules + Prices As we mentioned above, New Ishigaki Airport is the gateway to the Yaeyama Islands. As such, visitors to the island will need to travel to the island by plane. Flights are available from all major airports in Japan, including Tokyo, Osaka, Kyoto, and Okinawa. Flight prices and times will vary by location. In the past, there was a ferry from Naha that took visitors directly to the Yaeyama Islands, but the service was discontinued in 2008. After you've arrived on Ishigaki Island, you can visit the other islands via ferry. Most islands have regularly scheduled ferries, but some islands have just 1-2 ferries scheduled each day, so we recommend looking up ferry timetables before visiting. Please also keep in mind that because travel time to each islands varies, so to do ferry ticket prices. Round trip tickets can cost anywhere from 1,500 yen (~10 USD) to 6,000 yen (~42 USD). Summary of the Yaeyama Islands, Okinawa If you haven't already watched the video, be sure to take a look at it, as you can see incredible aerial views of the islands in Okianwa, Japan. The Yaeyama Islands are a place where you can enjoy untouched nature, as well as scuba diving and snorkeling in crystal clear waters. The Yaeyama Islands also offer a unique cultural experience, different than you'll find on mainlaind Okinawa. With all this in mind, what are you waiting for?! Plan your trip to the Yaeyama Islands! 【Trip Advisor】Okinawa, Japan

■Table of Contents What Kind of Place is Rishiri Island? Recommended Tourist Attractions in Rishirifuji Otatomari Marsh, the Most Popular Tourist Attraction on Rishiri Island Hime Marsh, a Tourist Attraction Famous for Its Reflection of the Upside-Down Rishiri Fuji Shiroi Koibito no Oka, the Package Design for a Famous Hokkaido Confection 3 Popular Cycling Courses on Rishiri Island Rishiri Saikuru Road Rishirifuji Green Line Rishiri Island Blue Line Rishiri Island Fureai Cycling Tour, a Popular Event on Rishiri Island Activities to Try On Rishiri Island Family Campsite Yuni – Enjoy Island Camping Under the Stars Rishirifuji Onsen – Relax and Rejuvenate After a Long Day of Traveling Water Sports on Rishiri Island Rishiri Yu-Yu Running, a Popular Marathon Around the Island Hiking on Mt. Rishiri – A Climbing Guide for Beginners and Advanced Climbers Climbing Season: June to September Mt. Rishiri Hiking Trails Oshidomari Hiking Trail (Beginner - Intermediate Hiking Trail) Kutsugata Hiking Trail (Advanced Hiking Trail) The Best Foods on Rishiri Island The Mouthwatering Sea Urchin of Rishiri Island Rishiri Island, a Treasure Trove of Seafood Delicacies Popular Souvenirs on Rishiri Island How to Get to Rishiri Island How to Get to Rishiri Island by Airplane How to Get to Rishiri Island by Ferry An Unforgettable Travel Experience Awaits You on Rishiri Island! What Kind of Place is Rishiri Island? This video, titled "Rishiri Island, Hokkaido - Cycling PR Video (Long Version) - Summer Edition" (北海道利尻島　サイクリングPR動画　ロングver　～夏編~), was uploaded by "Rishirifuji Town Hall." The video tells the story of one woman, tired from her daily life in the city, who travels to Rishiri Island in Hokkaido in the summer in search of escape. The vast skies and expansive landscape of Rishiri Island are not something that can be conveyed simply by glancing at a travel brochure. The footage shown in the video captures the excitement that one can experience by physically visiting Rishiri Island. Be sure to check out the video for a tour of Rishiri Island by rental bicycle, and experience the culture, gastronomy, and warm interactions with the local people of Rishiri Island. Photo：Mt. Rishiri (Rishiri Fuji), Rishiri Island, Hokkaido Rishiri Island is a small island with a circumference of 60 km, that can be toured via car in just 1.5 hours, and is full of delectable delicacies to indulge in! This article will provide information on tourist attractions on Rishiri Island during the tourist season from early summer to autumn. Enjoy the spectacular views of the upside-down Rishiri Fuji, Shiroi Koibito no Oka, as well as outdoor activities, such as camping, hiking, and cycling, and seafood delicacies made using freshly caught sea urchin from Rishiri Island. We'll also go over how to get to Rishiri Island, so if you're thinking about traveling to Rishiri Island, be sure to stay tuned for all of this useful information! Recommended Tourist Attractions in Rishirifuji Rishiri Island is located in the Sea of Japan in northern Hokkaido and has a population of around 2,200. The name "Rishiri" comes from the Ainu word "Riishiri," which means "Island with tall mountain(s)," a reference to Mt. Rishiri, located directly in the center of the island. Located approximately 52 kilometers west of the city of Wakkanai, the northernmost point of Japan, the island can be reached via ferry in roughly 1 hour and 40 minutes. During the summer months, June through August, when the island is busy as a tourist destination, the average temperature in Rishirifuji stays below 68°F. Because the temperature varies depending on the weather and time of day, it's recommended that you bring something you can easily throw on and take off, as it's cool and comfortable in the summer as well. Rishiri Island consists of two towns, Rishirifuji and Rishiri. This article will introduce selected tourist attractions and things to do in Rishirifuji. Otatomari Marsh, the Most Popular Tourist Attraction on Rishiri Island Photo：Otatomari Marsh, Rishiri Island, Hokkaido Located in the southeastern part of the island, Otatomari Marsh is the largest lake on Rishiri Island. You can see Otatomari Marsh, the most popular tourist attraction on Rishiri Island, starting at 21:54 in the video. Otatomari Marsh is located on the opposite side of the island from the port of Oshidomari, and can be reached via bus in approximately 35 minutes. If you visit Otatomari Marsh, we highly recommend a walk along the promenade. On the well-maintained 1-kilometer long, 30-minute walking trail, visitors can enjoy a spectacular view of Mt. Rishiri and the seasonal vegetation in the area. Moreover, if the weather and other conditions are right, you can even see Rishiri Fuji (Mt. Rishiri) reflected upside down on the surface of the lake. The beautiful blue surface of the lake, surrounded by a forest of Sakhalin spruces, is so beautiful that it's no wonder it's called the best tourist attraction on Rishiri Island. Rishiri Island is known as the area where cherry blossoms bloom the latest in Japan. On the Otatomari Marsh boardwalk, you can enjoy cherry blossom viewing in early June. In the video, you can see Otatomari Marsh in its entirety via aerial footage, and you'll be amazed at the natural beauty stretching as far as the eye can see. Photo：Minamihama Marsh, Rishiri Island, Hokkaido Around Otatomari Marsh is the largest marshland on Rishiri Island, Numaura Marsh, which has been designated as a Natural Monument by the town of Rishirifuji. The marshland is called "Mikazukinuma" (lit. "Crescent Moon Marsh"), and is said to be a phantom swamp because it can only be seen for a couple months during the winter when there is snow on the ground. At the rest house in the parking lot of Otatomari Marsh, visitors can purchase snacks made from freshly caught seafood from Rishiri, such as scallops baked in butter and grilled whelks, as well as souvenirs like Rishiri Kombu, the high-quality dried seaweed of Rishiri. Otatomari Marsh Information 【Address】Numaura Oniwaki, Rishirifuji, Rishiri District, Hokkaido 097-0211 【Telephone】0163-82-2201 (Tourist Information Center in Oshidomari Ferry Terminal) 【Parking】29 cars 【Access】Take the Soya Bus (宗谷バス) bound for Oniwaki (鬼脇) from Oshidomari Port and get off at Otatomari-numa (オタトマリ沼) (approx. 35 mins). Hime Marsh, a Tourist Attraction Famous for Its Reflection of the Upside-Down Rishiri Fuji Another popular tourist attraction on Rishiri Island is Hime Marsh (Himenuma Marsh), where visitors can enjoy a spectacular view of the natural scenery of the town of Rishirifuji. Hime Marsh can be seen from 18:00 in the video. Photo：Hime Marsh, Rishiri Island, Hokkaido Hime Marsh is a unique marsh surrounded by nature, located approximately 2 km (1.2 miles) southeast of Oshidomari Port, the gateway to Rishiri Island. A 100-meter walk along a well-maintained promenade from the nearby parking will take you to Hime Marsh. On the way to the promenade you'll find Memory Bridge (想い出橋) (video 18:17~), a suspension bridge spanning the Omobetsu River, which is surrounded by greenery and has a wonderful atmosphere. The murmur of the river below is therapeutic. The main attraction of Hime Marsh is the reflection of the upside-down Rishiri Fuji (another name for Mt. Rishiri) on the surface of the pond. From early- to mid-morning is the best time to see the upside-down Rishiri Fuji, as the surface is of the pond is still undisturbed by the sun and there are few waves caused by the wind. Hime Marsh is also a popular photo spot on Rishiri Island for capturing fantastic photos. Photo：Rishiri Fuji at Hime Marsh, Rishiri Island, Hokkaido Hime Marsh, with a circumference of approximately 800 meters (~2,600 ft) and a depth of 2 meters (6.5 ft), is said to be the remains of an explosion crater, and it looks as though the ground has been gouged out. The lakeside promenade, designated as Himenuma Park, is home to wild birds and plants that will make the 20-minute walk around it a memorable one. From the Himenuma Observatory, you can enjoy a panoramic view of Cape Peshi and Oshidomari Port, which are sure to be an unforgettable part of your trip! Hime Marsh is an artificial pond made of a small marsh and spring water, which was created about 100 years ago in 1917, and is full of trout that were released into it. Knowing facts and tidbits of information like this will make your trip to Rishiri Island even more enjoyable. There are restrooms in the parking lot and a store in front of Hime Marsh, making it a great place for cyclists to take a break during their trip to Rishiri Island. Hime Marsh Information 【Address】Wannai Oshidomari, Rishirifuji, Rishiri District, Hokkaido 097-0101 【Operation Period】May-October 【Telephone】0163-82-2201 (Tourist Information Center in Oshidomari Ferry Terminal) 【Parking】16 cars 【Access】Take the Soya Bus (宗谷バス) bound for Oniwaki (鬼脇) from Oshidomari Port, get off at Himenuma-guchi (姫沼口) (5 min.), and walk 30-40 minutes. Shiroi Koibito no Oka, the Package Design for a Famous Hokkaido Confection Photo：Shiroi Koibito no Oka, Rishiri Island, Hokkaido Shiroi Koibito no Oka (White Lover's Hill) (video 20:40) is a new tourist attraction in Rishirifuji that was created in 2014. It's a 35-minute bus ride from Oshidomari Port, a 15-minute walk from Otatomari Marsh, and is located on the coast across Route 108 from Otatomari Marsh. The official name of Shiroi Koibito no Oka is "Numaura Observatory." From the hill, you can see Mt. Rishiri over Otatomari Marsh, the Numaura Coast on the ocean side, and mainland of Hokkaido beyond the magnificent Sea of Japan, providing a spectacular panoramic view of the island. It's a must-see view when visiting Rishiri Island. Shiroi Koibito no Oka (White Lover's Hill) is depicted on the package of "Shiroi Koibito," a delicious cookie and popular souvenir from Hokkaido. The picture on the package of the cookies is a depiction of a snow-covered Mt. Rishiri seen from this area. Shiroi Koibito is a western-style confectionery made of chocolate sandwiched between crispy cookies and sold by Ishiya, a confectionery manufacturer in Sapporo, Hokkaido, and is one of the most popular souvenirs in Hokkaido, selling approximately 200 million pieces annually since 1976. If you propose on Shiroi Koibito no Oka and bring a photo taken there to the Rishirifuji Tourism Association office at Oshidomari Ferry Terminal, you'll receive a proposal certificate officially approved by Ishiya, the manufacturer of Shiroi Koibito. It will be a treasured memory of your travels in Hokkaido and a lifetime memory for you and your partner. Shiroi Koibito no Oka Information 【Address】Rishirifuji, Rishiri District, Hokkaido 097-0211 【Operation Period】May-October 【Telephone】0163-82-1114 (Rishirifuji Industry, Commerce, and Tourism Promotion Division) 【Parking】10 cars 【Access】Take the Soya Bus (宗谷バス) bound for Oniwaki (鬼脇) from Oshidomari Port, get off at Otatomari-numa (オタトマリ沼) (approx. 35 mins). 3 Popular Cycling Courses on Rishiri Island The video shows a woman on a trip to Rishiri Island who tours the island while cycling from one attraction to the next. Rishiri Island is known as one of the best cycling spots in Japan. Cycling on Rishiri Island through the beautiful natural scenery of Hokkaido while feeling the pleasant breeze of northern Japan is an experience that will make you oblivious to the passing of time and help wash away your fatigue. Cyclists gather from all over Japan to enjoy the spectacular natural scenery of Hokkaido. Photo：Image of cycling, Rishiri Island, Hokkaido The following is a list of recommended cycling courses on Rishiri Island: ・Rishiri Saikuru Road (利尻・彩くるロード) ・Rishiri Fuji Green Line (利尻富士グリーンライン) ・Rishiri Island Blue Line (利尻島絶景ブルーライン) Here are the characteristics of each course. Rishiri Saikuru Road The course is enjoyable for beginners as there are relatively few major ups and downs, but it is suitable for those who are confident in their physical strength as it circles the island's approximately 60-kilometer (~37.3 miles) circumference. A 24.9 km (15.5 miles) bicycle path is provided along the course, and you can rent a bicycle in Oshidomari to start your cycling tour. If you ride clockwise, you can ride along the west coast in the evening, and you may be able to see a beautiful sunset. The course will take about 7 hours if you ride at a speed of 8 km/h (5 mph) while slowly taking in the natural scenery, so it's recommended that you leave around 9:00 a.m. to return before the sun sets. During your cycling tour, you can visit the following tourist attractions on Rishiri Island. Photo：A beautiful sunset, Rishiri Island, Hokkaido Rishiri Saikuru Road Course Oshidomari Ferry Terminal → Rishirifuji Onsen → Wannai Ohashi Bridge (湾内大橋) → Hime Marsh → Oniwaki → Shiroi Koibito no Oka → Otatomari Marsh → Minamihama Marsh → Senhoshimisaki Park → Reiho Yusui (麗峰湧水) → Itsukushima Benten Shrine of the North (北のいつくしま弁天宮) → Neguma no Iwa/Jinmen Iwa (寝熊の岩・人面岩) → Kamui Kaigan Park → Rishiri Athletic Park (利尻町運動公園) → Rishiri Forest Park (利尻町森林公園) → Fujino Park (富士野園地) (video 7:13) → Yuhigaoka Observatory → Rishirifuji Onsen and Footbath (利尻富士温泉・足湯) → Oshidomari Ferry Terminal Photo：Rishiri Saikuru Road cycling map Rishirifuji Green Line A short course for families to enjoy the streets of Rishirifuji with a total distance of 6.5 km (4 miles) and taking approximately 1 to 2 hours to complete. You can stop at popular tourist spots in Rishirifuji in the northern part of Rishiri Island, such as the Yuhigaoka Observatory where you can see a beautiful sunset over the Sea of Japan and Rebun Island, Umi no Eki Oshidomari (video 4:45), and the Cape Peshi Observatory (Lighthouse of Love). Rishirifuji Green Line Course Oshidomari Ferry Terminal → Rishirifuji Onsen → Fujino Park (video 7:13~) → Izumi no Fukuroma → Oshidomari Ferry Terminal Photo：Rishiri Fuji Green Line cycling map Rishiri Island Blue Line A casual, easygoing cycling course that takes around 2 to 3 hours to complete and covers a total distance of 18 km (~11.2 miles), taking cyclists around popular tourist attractions in the town of Rishirifuji in the northern part of Rishiri Island. A bicycle path is maintained for bicycles only, so you can enjoy a safe cycling tour. Depending on the season, you can see people fishing from the shoreline, as well as kelp laid out in rows to dry with Rishiri Fuji in the backdrop, a view that is unique to this port town. From Wanai Ohashi Bridge (湾内大橋), you can enjoy a spectacular panoramic view of the blue sea and Mt. Rishiri. Photo：Cape Peshi, cycling course Photo：Kelp being laid out to dry Rishiri Island Blue Line Course Oshidomari Ferry Terminal → Nozuka Observatory → Hime Marsh → Wanai Ohashi Bridge → Rishirifuji Onsen → Oshidomari Ferry Terminal Photo：Rishiri Island Blue Line Course cycling map Rishiri Island Fureai Cycling Tour, a Popular Event on Rishiri Island In late August, the Rishiri Island Fureai Cycling Tour (利尻島一周ふれあいサイクリング) is held. Rishiri Island residents and cycling enthusiasts from all over Japan participate in this event because they can enjoy the beautiful views of Rishiri Island and experience the nature of the island firsthand. This is an event where you can ride a bicycle around the island with many other participants while experiencing the island's charms to the fullest. Photo：Rishiri Island Fureai Cycling Tour Before you start cycling, be sure to pick up a cycling map. The map is a detailed guide to the entire cycling course on Rishiri Island, so it will not only help you choose the right course, but also ensure that you don't get lost along the way. Please rest assured that you can have an enjoyable cycling tour, as there are bike stands, tools, and air tanks available at various locations on Rishiri Island. If you're looking to enjoy a casual cycling experience on Rishiri Island, we recommend using the rental bicycles. Some inns rent bicycles exclusively to guests, so be sure to check with them in advance if you wish to use one. Electric bicycles are also available for rent, so those lacking confidence in their physical strength or those who have never cycled for long periods of time need not worry. Prices for rental bicycles range from approximately 1,500 yen to 3,000 yen ($10 to $20 USD) per day. When cycling on Rishiri Island, please keep in mind that the course around Rishiri Island is quite long, taking about 7 hours to complete, so it's important to pay attention to your physical condition as well as your equipment. Also, as the island coexists with nature, be sure to act in a manner that respects the natural environment. Activities to Try On Rishiri Island When visiting Hokkaido, there's plenty of things to do that allow you to enjoy the natural wonders of the island. Family Campsite Yuni – Enjoy Island Camping Under the Stars Photo：A starry sky on Rishiri Island This remote location, far from the city, offers an unparalleled view of the starry night sky as far as the eye can see. It's a bucket list experience in Hokkaido, where you can fall asleep with a smile on your face. Because there is little light pollution on Rishiri Island, you can enjoy an extraordinary time seeing the Milky Way and watching shooting stars. There are five campgrounds on Rishiri Island, and this article will introduce Family Campsite Yuni (ファミリーキャンプ場ゆ～に), located in the town of Rishirifuji. Located in Rishirifuji Amenity Park (利尻富士町アメニティパーク), a 5-minute drive from Oshidomari Port, Family Campsite Yuni is across the street from Rishirifuji Onsen (Rishirifuji Spa), the northernmost natural hot spring in Japan. This campground is popular among campers who seek the to enjoy an open-air hot spring while camping. At Family Campsite Yuni, there are bungalows and cottages available, and there are plenty of rental items, including tents and sleeping bags. You can also purchase supplies such as charcoal and barbecue equipment, so you and your friends or family can visit empty handed. From the campground, you can see the summit of Mt. Rishiri, making it a popular place to stay before or after hiking the mountain. The campground is relatively new and clean, and reservations are not required for tent sites, making it a convenient place to enjoy the outdoors. Photo：Family Campsite Yuni, Rishiri Island, Hokkaido Family Campsite Yuni Information 【Address】Sakaemachi Oshidomari, Rishirifuji, Rishiri District, Hokkaido 097-0101 【Operation Period】May 1 - October 31 【Parking】29 cars 【Admission Fee】Adults: 520 yen, Elementary school students and younger: 310 yen ※As of June, 2023. Rishirifuji Onsen – Relax and Rejuvenate After a Long Day of Traveling Photo：Outdoor baths at Rishirifuji Onsen, Rishiri Island, Hokkaido Rishirifuji Onsen, located across the street from Family Campsite Yuni, is a famous hot spring on Rishiri Island that attracts some 60,000 visitors a year. If you're going to the nearby Family Campsite Yuni, we highly recommend checking it out, as it's a fun experience on Rishiri Island. The open-air bath with a view of Mt. Rishiri and the ocean is a special treat for tired bodies. The sunset over the Sea of Japan and the starry night sky make the open-air bath the ultimate experience. After enjoying the open-air baths, you can sample the famous "Kanro Sensui," a famous spring water from Rishirifuji. Relaxing in open-air baths while enjoying a view of Mt. Rishiri will help wash away the fatigue from your trip. Rishirifuji Onsen Information 【Address】Sakaemachi-227-7 Oshidomari, Rishirifuji, Rishiri District, Hokkaido 097-0101 【Telephone】0163-82-2388 【Hours】Noon - 9:00 pm Water Sports on Rishiri Island For those looking for even more things to do on Rishiri Island, we recommend trying out marine activities, such as sea kayaking tours and SUP (Stand up paddleboarding) (video 13:20~). Photo：Sea kayaking, Rishiri Island, Hokkaido Surrounded by the sea, Rishiri Island features many surfing spots that can be enjoyed by beginners and advanced surfers alike, making it a popular surfing spot in Japan. Photo：Surfing, Rishiri Island, Hokkaido Rishiri Yu-Yu Running, a Popular Marathon Around the Island Rishiri Yu-Yu Running is a 53.67-km (33.3 mile) round-the-island marathon that can be completed in less than 10 hours. It's a popular event with a course that allows participants to enjoy views of the sea and Mt. Rishiri during their run. Around June, when the event is held, the average temperature is a comfortable 13°C to 15°C (55°F to 59°F), making it a pleasant race. After working up a sweat while enjoying nature, you'll receive a hot spring ticket useable at Rishirifuji Onsen, and transportation will be provided so that you can relax in the hot springs after the marathon. Photo：Rishiri Yu-Yu Running marathon, Rishiri Island, Hokkaido Hiking on Mt. Rishiri – A Climbing Guide for Beginners and Advanced Climbers Photo：Rishiri Fuji (Mt. Rishiri), Rishiri Island, Hokkaido Mt. Rishiri, the northernmost of Japan's "100 Famous Japanese Mountains," stands at 1,721 meters (5,646 feet) above sea level in the center of Rishiri Island. Although its official name is Mt. Rishiri, it's often called Rishiri Fuji (not to be confused with the town Rishirifuji) for its beautifully conical silhouette reminiscent of Mt. Fuji. It's also known for its abundance of alpine flora, many of which are unique to this area. The Oshidomari Hiking Trail is a well-maintained trail, so beginners can hike up the mountain with relative ease. That being said, it's a 5-to-6-hour ascent and a 3-to-4-hour descent, making it an all-day affair, so it's recommended that those who are not confident in their stamina do not attempt the hike. The greatest attraction of this day-long climb up Mt. Rishiri is the view from the summit. Rishiri Island itself is a mountain, and the summit offers an amazing panoramic view of the island. The view can only be seen by those who reach the summit of Mt. Rishiri, but it's well worth the climb. Climbing Season: June to September Photo：Remaining snow on Rishiri Fuji (Mt. Rishiri) ・Early June The average temperature at the summit in early June is 6.4°C (43.5°F), and crampons may be required at the summit due to lingering snow ・Early July The average temperature at the summit in early July is 9°C to 12°C (48.2°F to 53.6°F); and crowds and congestion often occur during the peak of climbing tour season. ・Late August - Early September In late August and early September, the minimum temperature can drop below freezing, so be sure to bring cold weather gear. During the climbing season, it's warm with alpine plants in full bloom, and the carpet of flowers that spreads across the mountain has earned led to it being recognized as one of the best places to see mountain flowers in Japan. Mt. Rishiri Hiking Trails Mt. Rishiri is a popular climbing spot visited by about 10,000 climbers annually, and there are two hiking trails located on the mountain: the Oshidomari Hiking Trail and the Kutsugata Hiking Trail. It's recommended that you start with the Oshidomari Hiking Trail, which is appropriate for beginners and intermediate hikers. There was a third trail, the former Oniwaki Hiking Trail, but it has been closed due to hazards. Oshidomari Hiking Trail (Beginner - Intermediate Hiking Trail) The trailhead is about 60 minutes on foot from Oshidomari Port at Rishiri Hokuroku Campsite (利尻北麓野営場) where there is also a hiking trail for Mt. Pon (ポン山, Pon Yama). Since there are no buses running early in the morning, care must be taken when going to the trailhead. It's best to find a guest house that can provide transportation to the trailhead. At the 3rd station, you'll find Kanro Sensui (甘露泉水) (video 9:59), the only source of water on Mt. Rishiri, which has been selected as one of Japan's 100 Remarkable Waters. The water from Kanro Sensui, which is subsoil water from Mt. Rishiri, is characterized by its mild sweetness. It's an oasis for climbers of Mt. Rishiri to quench their thirst. From the 5th station, the trail continues gently uphill through the trees, but from the 6th station, the incline gradually increases. From the 9th station, the trail converges with the Kutsugata Hiking Trail, and the footholds on the way to the summit become worse, so ropes are placed at dangerous spots. Kutsugata Hiking Trail (Advanced Hiking Trail) The Kutsugata Hiking Trail is shorter than the Oshidomari Hiking Trail, but is more difficult due to its steeper incline and is therefore recommended for advanced climbers. The trailhead is located at the Mikaeridai Park, approximately 500 meters (1,640 ft) above sea level, and the trailhead is the 5th station. After the 8th station, the incline increases toward Mt. Sancho (三眺山), and the difficulty persists beyond this point. From the 9th station, the trail converges with the Oshidomari Hiking Trail. By having a veteran guide or a guide with expertise accompanying you, you can enjoy hiking with peace of mind while receiving advice on climbing etiquette and route selection, as well as an explanation of the alpine flora. Photo：Hikers on Rishiri Fuji (Mt. Rishiri) Because the weather on Mt. Rishiri can change abruptly, windproof and waterproof jackets, warm innerwear, and a hat/helmet to protect your head are a must. In addition, non-slip hiking shoes are recommended for a safe ascent. The huts on Mt. Rishiri were built as refuge huts and are not lodging facilities, so they cannot be used for overnight stays and can only be used for napping or in the case of an emergency. As the number of climbers increases year after year, the alpine flora has been damaged by ill-mannered climbers who walk outside of the designated trails, trampling the alpine flora and reducing the size of the colonies. Trails near the summit are so bare that they crumble at the touch of a finger. Because of this, rules have been established on Mt. Rishiri to ensure that each and every climber behaves in a manner that is respectful of the natural environment. Mt. Rishiri Climbing Rules 1. Use portable toilets 2. Use rubber tips on hiking poles (to prevent damage to vegetation) 3. Do not sit or step on the vegetation Please follow these rules and enjoy a safe and enjoyable climb up Mt. Rishiri. The Best Foods on Rishiri Island The Mouthwatering Sea Urchin of Rishiri Island Photo：Rishiri Island sea urchin, Hokkaido Rishiri Island is known not only for its tourist attractions and spectacular natural scenery, but also for its mouthwatering seafood. The smooth texture and unique flavor of the locally caught sea urchin is to die for! It's a treat for any foody traveling to Japan! Sea urchin caught locally in Rishirifuji is one of the most highly regarded gastronomic delicacies in all of Japan thanks to the depth of its flavor. Its sweet and rich flavor are truly unforgettable. After you've tried it, you'll be craving a second helping. What makes the sea urchin of Rishiri Island so exquisite you ask? The reason for this is that the waters around Rishiri Island are rich in nutrients caused by the collision of warm and cold currents. In addition, the sea urchins grow on high-grade Rishiri Kombu kelp, which is rich in nutrients from the undersea spring water flowing from Mt. Rishiri. Approximately 40% of all domestic sea urchins in Japan are caught in Hokkaido. Rishiri Island is home to two species of sea urchin, called "nona" and "ganze," and sea urchin fishing is regulated to maintain the population. Photo：Left: ganze sea urchin, Right: nona sea urchin The opening of the season for the sea urchins differs, with the opening of the season for ganze sea urchins being June 1 and the opening of the season for nona sea urchins being on June 10. Both are in season until the end of August and have a mellow flavor. Nona sea urchins have short spines on the outside and are dark orange inside. They are much rarer and more valuable than ganze sea urchins because of their rich and delicious flavor and sweetness. On the other hand, the ganze sea urchin has long, purplish spines, is larger than the nona sea urchin, and is characterized by its elegant sweetness. Photo：Ganze and nona sea urchin bowl In Rishirifuji, you can enjoy sea urchin bowls with either one of the two types of sea urchin, or a combined seafood bowl where you can compare their flavor. Sea urchin is made with the food additive "alum" (ミョウバン, "myouban" in Japanese) to keep it clean longer, but it causes bitterness and spoils the original taste of the sea urchin. Therefore, please try to find sea urchin that does not contain alum. From 26:51 in the video, you can see the woman traveling to Rishiri Island eating two kinds of fresh sea urchin. Photo：Rishirifuji Sea Urchin Festival, Rishiri Island, Hokkaido Rishirifuji also hosts an annual event in which the sea urchin plays a leading role. The Rishirifuji Sea Urchin Festival (うにうにフェスティバル) is held every year on August 11 at the Rishirifuji Community Center parking lot. Photo：Grilled nona sea urchin, Rishiri Island, Hokkaido At the food and beverage corner, you can find grilled sea urchin, sea urchin bowls, sea urchin soup, and fresh scallops and octopus caught in Rishiri. The Sea Urchin Cracking Contest (ウニむき大会) for elementary school students and the Sea Urchin Speed-eating Contest (ウニの早食い大会) are just a few of the local events that make for a day full of sea urchin fun. Kamui Kaigan Park also organizes a sea urchin fishing experience (video 24:30). You can crack open the sea urchin you've caught yourself and enjoy them as fresh as they come! For those residing in Japan, Rishiri Island's sea urchin is also a Furusato Nozei (Hometown Tax) tax return gift, so you can enjoy fresh sea urchin from Rishiri Island anywhere in Japan by utilizing this system. Rishiri Island, a Treasure Trove of Seafood Delicacies In addition to sea urchin, Rishiri Island also offers a variety of must-try seafood delicacies that you don't want to miss! If you're a seafood lover, be sure to try scallops, mackerel, Hokkai Shrimp, Rishiri Kombu kelp, and more. Photo：Butter baked scallops From 37:37 in the video, you can see some of the delicious seafood dishes at an izakaya. Popular Souvenirs on Rishiri Island If you're looking to commemorate your trip to Rishiri Island, there are a number of souvenirs you can purchase to do so. You can find various souvenirs made from Rishiri Kombu, a famous, dried kelp made locally on Rishiri Island. Here, we'll introduce some popular souvenirs made using Rishiri Kombu. Rishiri Kombu Soy Sauce This soy sauce is made using the famous Rishiri Kombu. It has a deep flavor and brings out the best in the ingredients it's paired with. Rishiri Kombu Ramen This popular ramen, which has even been featured on tv, has noodles kneaded with Rishiri Kombu and an exquisite, flavorful broth. In addition, there are many other souvenirs, such as cup soup, kombu sake, and authentic shochu (a distilled Japanese liquor) with which you can enjoy the delicious flavors of Rishiri. Souvenirs can be purchased at the stores in the ferry terminal of Oshidomari Port. Be sure to keep an eye out for them! Photo：Various souvenirs using Rishiri Kombu, Rishiri Island, Hokkaido How to Get to Rishiri Island Rishiri Island can be accessed by air or ferry. Here is how you can get to Rishiri Island. How to Get to Rishiri Island by Airplane There are two routes to Rishiri Island by plane. Both flights are once-a-day, round trip flights and are approximately 50 minutes long. ◎ New Chitose Airport → Rishiri Airport: Approximately 50 min. ◎ Sapporo Okadama Airport → Rishiri Airport: Approximately 50 min. Please note that flights from New Chitose Airport are only available during the summer season (June to September). Photo：Rishiri Airport, Rishiri Island, Hokkaido How to Get to Rishiri Island by Ferry To get to Rishiri Island via ferry, it's a 1 hour and 40-to-50-minute ride from Wakkanai (Wakkanai Ferry Terminal) to Oshidomari Ferry Terminal on Rishiri Island. Fares vary by seat when using the ferry. [2nd Class Cabin] 2,770 yen - Carpeted open space [1st Class Island View Seat] 5,400 yen - All windows have a view of the ocean and you can enjoy views of both Mt. Rishiri and Rebun Island. [Special Rooms] 20,000 yen - Small private rooms for families and groups. In addition, there are kids' rooms and a baby room collaborating with Pokémon, the first of its kind in the ferry industry, equipped with diaper changing sheets, so that passengers with small children can enjoy the cruise with peace of mind. ※Fees current as of June 2023. Since this is a ferry, cars, motorcycles, bicycles, etc. can be transported as well, so you can visit Rishiri Island and travel around as you please. Please check the Heart Land Ferry official website for information regarding fares, rates, timetables, etc. Inside Oshidomari Ferry Terminal, there is a tourist information center, souvenir shops, and restaurants open for lunch where you can enjoy the flavors of Rishiri Island, including fresh sea urchin bowls and Rishiri ramen, so be sure to drop in and grab a bite to eat here. Photo：Wakkanai Ferry Terminal - Oshidomari Ferry Terminal, Heartland Ferry An Unforgettable Travel Experience Awaits You on Rishiri Island! When traveling to Rishiri Island, a place full of attractions, we recommend a course that will take you around the entire island. In addition to renting a bicycle, you can also rent mopeds and cars, or utilize buses and taxis. Rishirifuji also offers a variety of lodging facilities, including hotels, minshuku (Japanese-style bed and breakfasts), and campgrounds, so you can choose the one that best fits your travel style and budget. Don't forget to utilize the hot springs to relax after a long day of traveling as well! A trip to Rishiri Island guarantees an unforgettable adventure with delicious seafood and beautiful natural scenery. At the end of the video at 43:19, we can see the words of the woman, and the captions read: I'll come visit you again... My favorite place... Rishiri Island A trip to Rishiri Island will no doubt leave you feeling the same. The spectacular natural scenery, fresh seafood, and the hospitality of the local people make each and every encounter on Rishiri Island a deep and irreplaceable experience. We invite you to leave behind the hustle and bustle of the city and travel to northern Japan for a chance to experience the wealth that is Rishiri Island. Photo：A ferry send off at Oshidomari Ferry Terminal We hope you enjoyed this Rishiri Island Travel guide! 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Video Introduction to Kawachiya, a Popular Dorayaki Shop in Shizuoka City, Shizuoka Prefecture This video, titled “Japanese Street Food - Japanese Pancake DORAYAKI Jiggly Fluffy Cake,” was uploaded by “Sushi Bomber TV｜Cooking Front Line” (Sushi Bomber TV クッキング最前線). Dorayaki is a classic Japanese sweet loved by the people of Japan! These sweets are also well known from the popular anime "Doraemon." Dorayaki is a snack that can be easily made at home with pancake mix and anko (sweet bean paste), but you'll appreciate the flavor even more after watching the skillful techniques of these confectioners! There are many autographs of famous people inside Kawachiya, and it's frequently featured on TV programs across Japan. Kawachiya was established in 1988 and the popular confectionery features a limit of five dorayaki per person, but this is because the owner wants as many people as possible to be able to try them. The Coca-Cola logo at the front of the shop, where the owner is demonstrating and selling the dorayaki, gives the shop a slightly retro look. Dorayaki – A Popular Japanese Confection Photo：Dorayaki Dorayaki is such a popular Japanese confection that there are famous stores all over Japan, but surprisingly few people know how to make it properly. The recipe differs from store to store, but here we'll share a simple recipe and the origin of the name "dorayaki." Dorayaki is a general term for Japanese sweets made of a disk-shaped sponge cake with sweet bean paste sandwiched in between. It is said that the name "dorayaki" came from the shape of the sponge cake, which resembles a gong, which in Japanese is 銅鑼, pronounced "dora." The dough is made of wheat flour, eggs, and honey, giving it a slightly Western feel, making it a very popular sweet regardless of age or gender. Recently, freezing technology has advanced to allow them to be stored for longer periods of time, making them a great souvenir or gift. The standard sweet bean paste used inside is "koshi-an" or "tsubu-an," but there are also unique stores that add "shiro-an" (white bean paste) or cream. As you can see at 9:10 in the video, a special version with peanut butter sandwiched between the freshly baked cakes is served to the waiting customers. Nowadays, machine made dorayaki are commonly available at supermarkets and convenience stores, but there's something special about eating freshly made, fluffy, and hot dorayaki made right before your eyes at a street vendor. The History of Dorayaki. Why Are There so Many Dorayaki Products With the Name “Mikasa”? Photo：Torayaki The origins of dorayaki date back hundreds of years, and it is said that there was already a confection like the one we known today in the Kamakura period (1192 to 1333 A.D.). It is said that the current style of sandwiching two pieces of sponge cake together became standard in the Showa period (1926–1989 A.D.), but in the Edo period (1603-1868 A.D.), it was common to fold the round baked dough around the sweet bean paste, sort of like a dorayaki taco. It's said that the major Japanese confectionery Bunmeido made Dorayaki famous nationwide, and since this company popularized Dorayaki under the product name of "Seika Mikasa-yama," many Dorayaki products have been named "Mikasa." There is also a theory that the names "Mikasa," "Mikasa-yaki," and "Mikasa-manju" are favored in Japan's Kansai region because they originate from Mt. Wakakusa, commonly referred to as Mt. Mikasa, in Nara Prefecture. There are also "Nama-dora" with whipped cream, "Torayaki" with tiger patterened cakes ("tora" means "tiger" in Japanese), and "Mushi-dora" where the cakes are steamed instead of baked. Famous Dorayaki Stores Across Japan In this article, we introduced the famous "Kawachiya," a confectionery in Shizuoka, but there are many stores all over Japan where the popular sweet, dorayaki, is sold. In Tokyo, there are three major dorayaki shops: "Kameju" in Asakusa, "Usagiya" in Ueno, and "Sogetsu" in Higashi-Jujo, all of which are crowded with customers seeking dorayaki every day. Dorayaki is also very popular in online rankings. "Suzumeya" in Minami-Ikebukuro, "Seijuken" in Nihonbashi, "Bairindo" which originated in Saitama Prefecture, the popular "Kouro-an" in Yokohama, "Ryoguchiya Korekiyo" in Nagoya, "Morihan" and "Taneya" in Kyoto are all famous wagashi stores with high rankings. Summary of Dorayaki, the Popular Japanese Confection Photo：Dorayaki being made One of the highlights of Kawachiya, the shop introduced here, is the is the teamwork of the husband and wife. The husband cooks up the delicious confections and the wife packages them diligently. The dorayaki, with its fluffy sponge cake and generous amount of sweet bean paste will have you coming back for more! It is also sold in an assortment with other Japanese sweets, making it a great gift. Some stores also offer a service where they'll print a face on the cakes for birthdays and celebrations, making it great for special occasions as well! 【TripAdvisor】Kawachiya https://www.tripadvisor.com/Restaurant_Review-g298124-d1704426-Reviews-Kawachiya-Shizuoka_Shizuoka_Prefecture_Tokai_Chubu.html

Introducing the Traditional Crafts of Japan! This video, titled "Traditional Crafts "The Art of Craftsmanship" Traditional Crafts Aoyama Square" by "Traditional Crafts Aoyama Square." The term "traditional crafts" refers to products created with traditional skills and techniques that have been handcrafted by artisans in various regions. The term “Traditional crafts” (伝統的工芸品) have been stipulated in the "Act on the Promotion of Traditional Craft Industries" and as of February 2020, 230 items have been designated as such. Many traditional craft techniques have been passed down for more than 100 years in Japan. The national competition of traditional crafts, "KOUGEI-EXPO," by the Association for the Development of the Traditional Crafts Industry (伝統的工芸品産業振興協会), was held online in 2020 in Kyoto. The Traditional Crafts Shown in the Video Photo：Ceramics Traditional crafts are crafts made using techniques that have been passed down for many years, and are characterized by the fact that the main part of the production process is handmade. Traditional crafts have a slightly different meaning than ordinary other crafts in Japan. "Traditional crafts" refer only to items that are clearly specified by the government of Japan. Other conditions that traditional crafts must meet are as follows: ・ The craft must be an item used in daily life ・ The craft must be produced in a specific area ・ The craft must implement traditionally used materials ・ The craft must use traditional techniques or skills in the production process The Different Types of Traditional Crafts Shown in the Video Photo：Handmade Japanese paper being made by an artisan Japan is home to a number of different types of traditional crafts. These include: ・Textiles ・Dyed products ・Other textile products ・Ceramics ・Lacquerware ・Woodwork ・Bamboo crafts ・Metalwork ・Buddhist altars ・Buddhist equipment ・Japanese paper ・Stationery ・Masonry ・Precious stone crafts ・Traditional Japanese dolls ・Kokeshi dolls ・Other crafts Japan’s Traditional Crafts and Where They’re Made Photo：A Tsugaru ware tray The following traditional crafts are featured in this video: ・Aomori's "Tsugaru Nuri" [Video: 0:32 ~] ・Oita's " Beppu Bamboo Ware" [Video: 1:18 ~] ・Shimane's "Sekishu Washi" [Video: 2:01 ~] ・Hyogo’s "Tamba Ware" (Tamba-tachikui Ware) [Video: 2:42 ~] ・Kanagawa's "Kamakura-bori" [Video: 3:22 ~] ・Ishikawa's "Yamanaka Shikki" (Yamanaka Lacquerware) [Video: 4:05 ~] There are many more traditional crafts in Japan besides the ones shown in the video as well. Summary of Japan’s Various Traditional Crafts This video showcases many of Japan’s beautiful traditional crafts. Many of the traditional crafts shown in the video can also be purchased online. You can also experience a traditional craft making experience in many parts of Japan, giving you the opportunity to learn about the unique history and culture of each region. If there are any crafts that interest you, be sure to look them up! 【Official Website】Traditional Crafts Aoyama Square https://kougeihin.jp/en/