Spring Quartet – Cherry Blossoms Along the Banks of the Funakawa River: Video Introduction This video, titled "[SAKURA DRONE] Asahi, Toyama & Cherry Blossoms｜Drone Project 4K" ([SAKURA DRONE] Asahi-machi, Toyama-Ken & cherry blossoms｜富山県朝日町｜桜ドローンプロジェクト 4K), was uploaded by "Sakura Drone Project - Drone Entertainment Co." (桜ドローンプロジェクト - 株式会社ドローンエンタテインメント). Spring Quartet: A Collaboration in Nature Photo：Cherry blossoms along the Funakawa River, Toyama Prefecture In Asahi, Toyama, located in Japan's Koshin'etsu Region, there is a beautiful landscape referred to as the "Spring Quartet." This miraculous landscape is created through a combination of the mountains of the Northern Alps, rows of cherry blossoms along the Funakawa River, tulips, and rape blossoms. You can enjoy the beautiful Japanese spring woven by nature in Toyama Prefecture. Beautiful Cherry Blossoms Along the Banks of the Funakawa River This video features drone footage of Spring Quartet. It begins with beautiful footage of cherry blossoms and rape blossoms against a backdrop of mountains. The video of the rows of cherry trees along the banks of the Funakawa River shows 280 Someiyoshino cherry trees from the sky and various other angles that only drone photography can provide. [Video] 0:14 - Rows of Cherry Blossoms From the Sky [Video] 1:05 - Flying Through the Cherry Blossoms The cherry blossoms usually bloom in early April in Toyama Prefecture, but be sure to check the blooming conditions if you want to visit at the best times. Full bloom was mid-April in 2022. Toyama Life, Toyama Prefecture's local information website, has published information on the best times to visit Asahi Funakawa Spring Quartet. The rows of cherry blossoms along the Funakawa River are illuminated at night during the blooming period. Visitors can also enjoy bonfires and nighttime cherry blossoms, make it a very memorable event. Spring Quartet Events and Initiatives Photo：Cherry blossoms along the Funakawa River, Toyama Prefecture An annual cherry blossom festival is held at the cherry blossoms lining the banks of the Funakawa River, and musical events are also held. The Spring Quartet 2022 Instagram Photo Contest was also held this year. The photo contest seems to be held every year, so consider participating and taking photos in some of the beautiful spots you can find in the area. In addition, to help the tulip bulbs by the cherry blossoms lining the banks of the Funakawa River grow bigger, a tulip flower-picking team is being recruited. This is an effort to pick the flowers and preserve the beautiful scenery for years to come. In addition, there will be other things to enjoy, such as rice paddy art. Summary of Spring Quartet Be sure to check out the beautiful Japanese scenery of cherry blossoms along the Funakawa River at the Spring Quartet if you still haven't yet. If you're planning on going to the event, remember to look up the best times to see the cherry blossoms so you can get the most out of your sightseeing trip. To reach the Funakawa River cherry blossoms, shuttle buses from Asahi General Hospital and Asahi Cultural and Sports Center are available on Saturdays and Sundays. Note that parking near the cherry blossoms is only available on weekdays. The beautiful and uniquely Japanese scenery of Asahi Funakawa, where you can enjoy rows of cherry blossoms, rape blossoms, and tulips against the backdrop of Japan's Northern Alps, including the Asahi and Hakuba Mountains, awaits your arrival! 【Official Website】Asahi Tourism Association / Asahi Funakawa Spring Quartet https://www.asahi-tabi.com/sijuusou/ 【TripAdvisor】Funakawa River Cherry Blossoms https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g1121157-d13442353-Reviews-Funagawa_Berisakura_Namiki-Asahi_machi_Shimoniikawa_gun_Toyama_Prefecture_Hokur.html

About the Tateyama Kurobe Alpine Route Promotional Video This video, titled "(TKAR010) Long Version 'Tateyama Kurobe Alpine Route Promotional Video' Japan" (（TKAR010）立山黒部アルペンルート long version "Tateyama Kurobe Alpine Route promotional video" JAPAN), was released by "[Official] Tateyama Kurobe Alpine Route Video Channel" (【公式】立山黒部アルペンルート絶景動画チャンネル). The Tateyama Kurobe Alpine Route is a popular mountain sightseeing route with a series of 3,000-meter tall mountains. It offers observation decks with incredible views of the Tateyama Mountain range, a sightseeing route through a massive snow wall that appears at 0:48 in the video, and the stunning scenery of the Northern Alps. Check it out in the video! The Tateyama Kurobe Alpine Route Sightseeing Route Photo：Kurobe-daira, cable car The Tateyama Kurobe Alpine Route is a 37 km long mountain sightseeing route that starts from Tateyama Station in Toyama Prefecture and ends at Shinano-Omachi (信濃大町, Shinano-Omachi) in Nagano Prefecture. The route starts by taking the cable car from Tateyama Station on the Toyama Prefecture side, seen at 0:58 in the video, to Bijodaira (美女平, Bijodaira), and then to Tateyama Murodo (立山室堂,Tateyama Murodo) via Midagahara (弥陀ヶ原, Midagahara. Murodo is known as the highest station in Japan. You'll be able to enjoy a panoramic view of the Northern Alps from the sightseeing observation deck on Mt. Murodo (室堂山, Murodo-Yama). Explore the Tateyama Kurobe Alpine Route Using Local Transportation! Photo：Kurobe Lake and a ropeway Take the Tateyama Tunnel Trolley Bus from Murodo to Daikanbo Station, which can be seen at 1:42 in the video. The Tateyama Ropeway takes you to Kurobe-daira (黒部平, Kurobe-daira) from Daikanbo (大観峰, Daikanbo) in just 7 minutes. Take a ride on Japan's longest ropeway, a single-span ropeway with no aerial lift pylons, and experience the beautiful scenery. You can also take the Kurobe Cable Car from Kurobe-daira to Kurobeko (黒部湖, Kurobeko). The Highlight of the Tateyama Kurobe Alpine Route - The Great Snow Corridor Photo：Toyama Prefecture, Yuki no Oya The area around Snow Corridor of the Tateyama Kurobe Alpine Route has the most snowfall on the route. The snow that falls in winter forms two massive wall of snow, and even in mid-May, visitors can walk through a wall of snow more than 10 meters tall. The buses that run through the snow corridor were discontinued in April 2019, but you can still enjoy touring the sights on an environmentally-friendly hybrid bus. The bus may be cancelled depending on the weather, so be sure to check ahead of time and make reservations before your journey. After passing through the Kurobe Dam area of the Tateyama Kurobe Alpine Route, you'll be heading to Shinano Omachi, passing through the scenic landscape of Ogisawa (扇沢, Ogisawa) and the Hinatayama Plateau (日向山高原, Hinatayama Kougen). Summary of the Tateyama Kurobe Alpine Route Photo：Kurobe Dam and Tateyama Tourism on the Tateyama Kurobe Alpine Route peaks from winter through spring. You should expect there to be a large number of visitors on the route during the peak of the season, as many people will come to see the massive snow corridor. When the weather is nice in the summer, try the sightseeing route from the Tateyama Kurobe Alpine Route to the summit of Mt. Tsurugi (剱岳, Tsurugi-dake). We also recommend sightseeing in the fall when the Northern Alps are covered in beautiful autumn colors. As shown in the video, wildflowers, birds, and other wildlife that can only be seen here will make your trip unforgettable. 【Official Website】Tateyama Kurobe Alpine Route Official Guide https://www.alpen-route.com/en/ 【Tripadvisor】Tateyama Kurobe Alpine Route https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g1121155-d1220498-Reviews-Tateyama_Kurobe_Alpine_Route-Tateyama_machi_Nakaniikawa_gun_Toyama_Prefecture_Ho.html

Video introduction of spectacular views of the gassho-zukuri villages of Shirakawa-go in Gifu Prefecture and Gokayama in Toyama Prefecture. This promotional video, produced by “Discover Nippon,” shows the snowy landscapes of Shirakawa-go (Gifu Prefecture) and Gokayama (Toyama Prefecture). Shirakawa-go and Gokayama are two popular tourist destinations in Japan known for their Gassho-zukuri farmhouses with a unique sloped roof supported by A-frame crossbeams and thatched with the straw of crops. The beauty of these farmhouses, with snow capped, thatched roofs, can be seen in the video. This article will supplement the video by giving information about must-visit places in Shirakawa-go and Gokayama, where you can enjoy ancient Japanese landscapes. Sightseeing Locations at Shirakawa-go During the Winter ©Koichi_Hayakawa Modifying Declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1995, Shirakawa-go is a famous place in northern Gifu Prefecture (known as the Hida Region), home to the thatched-roof Gassho-zukuri farmhouses. The structure of the steeply sloped roofs can withstand the heavy winter snowfall. Wada-ke house, a well preserved house located in Ogimachi (the largest village in Shirakawa-go), is designated as an Important Cultural Property of Japan and is now open to the public as a museum. There are many other recommended locations, hidden gems, and “instagrammable” places, such as Shiroyama Viewpoint, Ogimachi Castle Observation Deck, Tohyama-ke House Museum and Myo-zenji Temple and House. Although Shirakawa-go has charms in every season, it's best seen covered in snow. The illumination during winter makes the village snowscape even more amazing. This can be seen at 3:33 in the video. The pure white landscape, lit up beautifully, is a sight to behold even on video. Recommended Tourist Locations in Gokayama Photo：World Heritage Site Gokayama Ainokura Village Gokayama is a part of Nanto City in Toyama, an area consisting of nostalgic villages featuring Gassho-zukuri farmhouses. Ainokura village and Suganuma village are the main attractions of Gokayama, and are both registered as UNESCO World Heritage Sites together with Shirakawa-go. The Iwase-ke House and Murakami-ke House are two buildings of high cultural value, with both being designated Important Cultural Properties of Japan. The best time to visit Gokayama is either in winter, when the village is covered in snow, or during the Ainokura Gokayama Music Festival in June. If you like Tofu, be sure to try the Gokayama Tofu. It's a local specialty made using pure mountain water and locally grown soybeans. Access to Shirakawa-Go and Gokayama Many people visit Shirakawa-go and Gokayama by bus tour or car, as there are no railway lines running through the area. If you're planning on staying overnight, the hotels around Hirase Onsen in Shirakawa-go or Gokasansou in Gokayama are the best options. Some of the Gassho-zukuri farmhouses now function as an inn. It's a great way to experience a traditional Japanese home that has tatami mat floors and an “Irori” (Sunken Hearth), used for both cooking and heating. The video shows the inside of a Gassho-zukuri farmhouse from 6:53. Staying in a traditional Japanese home guarantees a unique experience. Summary of Shirakawa-go and Gokayama ©Koichi_Hayakawa Modifying Shirakawa Village in Gifu Prefecture and Nanto City in Toyama Prefecture have released live informational cameras that allow you to check out Shirakawa-go and Gokayama at all times. Consider checking them out before you head out for sightseeing. Enjoy seeing the nostalgic Japanese villages snow capped by snow. It's a scene you won't come across often. Shirakawa-go Tourist Office http://ml.shirakawa-go.org/en/

Video Introduction of "Iwa Sculpture," a Traditional Craft of Nanto City, Toyama Prefecture The video "手技TEWAZA「井波彫刻」Inami Wood Carving," produced by "Japan Traditional Crafts Aoyama Square," introduces traditional Inami Wood Carving. The origins of traditional Japanese Inami Wood Carving can be traced back to 1390, the first year of the Meitoku Period. When Shakunyo-Shonin, the fifth suzerain of Higashi-Honganji temple in Kyoto founded the "Inami Branch Temple" in Toyama prefecture by order of

Zuiryuji Temple - An Exciting Tourist Destination in Takaoka This video, titled "JG☆☆☆☆8K HDR Toyama Zuiryuji Temple (National Treasure) - A Reflection of the Wealth and Advanced Architectural Techniques of the Kaga Domain - Enhanced Hi Technology" (JG☆☆☆☆8K HDR 富山 瑞龍寺(国宝) 加賀藩の栄華を反映した高度な建築技術 Toyama,Zuiryuji(National Treasure) Enhanced Hi Technology), was created by "JAPAN GEOGRAPHIC." Since the opening of the Hokuriku Shinkansen line, it has become much easier to travel to Toyama prefecture from Tokyo. In this article we'll go over a sightseeing spot we recommend those visiting Toyama prefecture check out! Without further ado, let's take a look at "Zuiryuji Temple." Zuiryuji Temple is a popular sightseeing destination in the city of Takaoka, Toyama Prefecture (previously known as the Kaga Domain), that has been designated a national treasure. The buildings, hallways and gardens are so beautifully crafted calling them works of art wouldn't be inaccurate. We hope you enjoy watching this video and experiencing what it feels like to walk the grounds of Zuiryuji Temple. The History of Zuiryuji Temple Photo：Sanmon gate at Zuiryuji Temple, Toyama Prefecture Zuiryuji Temple was built during the Kamakura period (1185 AD - 1333 AD) by the second generation Kaga domain feudal lord Toshinaga Maeda (前田利長). The temple was later named "Zuiryuin" (瑞龍院) by the third generation Kaga domain feudal lord Toshitsune Maeda (前田利常). The three main buildings of the temple: Sanmon Gate (山門), Butsuden (仏殿) and Hodo (法堂)), are built in a straight line (each one behind the other) in a beautiful symmetrical design. The current Sanmon Gate, seen at 0:28 in the video, was once destroyed by fire and rebuilt in the Edo period (1603 AD - 1868 AD). Major repairs were made during the Showa (昭和) and Heisei periods (平成) and Zuiryuji temple was officially registered as a national treasure in 1997. The burial ground of Toshinaga Maeda is also located within the temple grounds. Zuiryuji Temple - An Important Cultural Property of Japan Photo：The main gate of Zuiryuji Temple, Toyama Prefecture Zuiryuji Temple is home to many historical objects of great value, such as the statue of the Gautama Buddha (釈迦如来) in the temple's main hall. Seven of the temple's buildings have been designated Important Cultural Assets, including Somon Gate (総門), Zendo Hall (禅堂), Osado Hall (大茶堂), Takaroka (高廊下), the northern cloister (北回廊), the southeastern cloister (南東回廊) and the southwestern cloister (南西回廊). The wooden statue of Vidyaraja (the wisdom king in Buddhism) is registered as a Tangible Cultural Property of Japan. During the Edo period, the statue was placed in the bathroom and was said to have the power to bring cleanliness to dirty areas. From 1:12 in the video, you can see the beautiful garden leading towards the main temple building, truly one of the highlights of the video. Summary of Zuiryuji Temple Photo：The main hall at Zuiryu-ji Temple, Toyama Prefecture Zuiryuji Temple is one of the top sightseeing spots in the area and a great place to learn more about the history of the Kaga domain. There is a large car park situated nearby with 100 parking spaces making it easily accessible for those traveling by car. At Zuiryuji Temple, you can also purchase copies of sutras as well as take part in a Zazen (zen meditation) experience. There are many hotels and Japanese ryokan situated near the closest station (JR Takaoka station (JR高岡駅)), so consider spending the night and taking your time traveling around the Hokuriku (北陸) region of Japan. We hope that the next time you're in Japan's Hokuriku region, you'll consider visiting Zuiryuji Temple. The trip is sure to bring peace to both your mind and soul! 【Tripadvisor】Zuiryuji Temple https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g311426-d1308244-Reviews-Zuiryuji_Temple-Takaoka_Toyama_Prefecture_Hokuriku_Chubu.html 【Official Website】National Treasure – Zuiryuji Temple – Sightseeing Spot – Tourist Information in Toyama https://foreign.info-toyama.com/en/

Nunobashi Kancho E, a traditional ceremony in Tateyama, Nakashinagawa-gun, Toyama, Japan Video Introduction This video, titled "Japan UNESCO Future Heritage｜Nunobashi Kanjoe Purification Ceremony (Long version), Tateyama Town, Japan" released by the "Official Channel of Tateyama Town, Toyama Prefecture" (日本ユネスコ未来遺産　布橋灌頂会（富山県立山町）Nunobashi Kanjoe Purification Ceremony (Long version) Tateyama Town, Japan). It introduces Nunobashi Kanjoe, a traditional purification ceremony in Tateyama, Toyama. Nunobashi Kanjoe is a traditional ceremony that has been handed down for many years at Ashikuraji Temple in Tateyama, Toyama, in Japan's Tokai Region (東海地方, Tokai-Chiho). This article features a closer look at Nunobashi Kanjoe, a traditional Japanese ceremony that has been registered as a UNESCO Heritage for the Future. The History of Nunobashi Kanjoe, a Purification Ceremony in Tateyama, Toyama Source :YouTube screenshot Tateyama, a well-known sight in Toyama Prefecture, is counted as one of the three most sacred mountains in Japan. It has been worshipped as a spiritual mountain since ancient times. Entry to Tateyama was originally forbidden to females, and women were not allowed to climb the mountain during the Edo period (1603-1868 A.D.). It is believed that the origin of Nunobashi Kanjoe was when these female believers crossed a bridge called Nunobashi over the Ubadou River (姥堂川, Ubadou-Gawa) in Tateyama, praying to be accepted into paradise. A Closer Look at Nunobashi Kanjoe, a Purification Ceremony in Tateyama, Toyama Source :YouTube screenshot Nunobashi Kanjoe includes the ceremony in which women dressed entirely in white enter the dimly lit Enmado-Hall and perform sutra reading to pray for entry to paradise. This performance is shown at 2:41 in the video. Nunobashi Kanjoe has been actively practiced since the Edo period, but was once abolished due to the abolition of Buddhism during the Meiji period (1868-1912 A.D.), and only recently revived in the Heisei period (1989-2019 A.D.). Nunobashi Kanjoe is now held only once every three years, so nowadays, it is a sacred ritual that can rarely be seen. Nunobashi Kanjoe was registered as a "Heritage for the Future" by UNESCO Japan in 2012, in recognition of its historical and valuable rituals. Sightseeing Around the Tateyama Area in Toyama Photo：Toyama Prefecture, Tateyama Museum of Toyama Yobokan The Toyama Prefectural Tateyama Museum, located at the site where Nunobashi Kanjoe is held, offers a video hall to learn the history of Tateyama and the rituals of Nunobashi Kanjoe. When sightseeing in Tateyama, Toyama, you should definitely check out the events in the surrounding areas. There is a popular theme park called "Mandara Amusement Park" in the Tateyama Museum as well. It's said that the theme park was created in the image of hell... Consider stopping by to check it out. Summary of Nunobashi Kanjoe, A Traditional Ceremony in Tateyama, Toyama Source :YouTube screenshot As you can see in the video, Nunobashi Kanjoe, a traditional ceremony in the Tateyama area of Toyama Prefecture, is a sacred ritual that has passed down traditional Japanese culture to the present day. When visiting the Tateyama area in Toyama, enjoy experiencing the ethereal world at the Tateyama Museum, where you can find a rich collection of materials related to Nunobashi Kanjoe.

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

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

Video Introduction of "Butsudan Lacquer," a traditional craftsman of Takaoka Butsudan in Takaoka City, Toyama Prefecture This video, titled "The Journey to Becoming a Buddhist Altar Lacquerer/ Kyoden Buddhist Altar Workshop" (仏壇塗師になる旅 / 京田仏壇店工房), was uploaded by "Nippon Teshigoto Zukan." It introduces "Kyoden Butsudan-ten Koubo," a workshop that manufactures and sells traditional Takaoka Buddhist altars and restores gold foil. From 0:30 in the video, you can see Mitsuhiro Kyoden, a Buddhist altar lacquerer or "nuri-shi" in Japanese. This 5-minute video is perfect for people who want to learn about Buddhist altar lacquerers and the craftmanship behind them. In this article, we'll go over his techniques and preferences along the video. The History of Takaoka Butsudan and Buddhist Altar Lacquerers Source :YouTube screenshot Takaoka Butsudan has a long history dating back to the Edo period (1603-1868) in Takaoka, Toyama. Takaoka Butsudan creates Buddhist altars that must be assembled and they use a large amount of gold leaf. The lacquering techniques used for Buddhist altars was introduced from China along with Buddhism. They're used for painting Buddhist statues, gluing arrowheads, and preventing rust on armor. Mitsuhiro Kyoden, the Buddhist Altar Lacquerer in the Video Source :YouTube screenshot The video introduces the craftsmanship of Mitsuhiro Kyoden, a Buddhist altar lacquerer who paints both wood and lacquer, which are important processes in the production of Buddhist altars. He explains the process from 2:18 in the video. Lacquer is adjusted based on the weather forecast, and then checked on the next day to make further adjustments before applying the final coat. This process is important in creating the best possible work. It's important to keep adjusting the lacquer to the weather conditions each day. If this process is not done properly, brush marks remain on the final product and the polishing process will take longer. There is no textbook on how these processes are done, so the only way to learn is by trial and error and by learning from your mistakes. Mitsuhiro learned the theory of lacquering at university, and when actually doing it, he thinks back on what his teacher taught him thinking things like "so that's what they meant," etc. He passionately says that as a craftsman, he has to challenge himself and keep trying to improve. Summary of Japan's Buddhist Altar Lacquerers Source :YouTube screenshot In this video, you can see the spirit of craftmanship of a Takaoka Butsudan altar lacquerer. A well-built Buddhist altar can be passed down for generations if properly maintained. In this five and a half minute video, you can learn about traditional Japanese crafts and how they're preserved through the hard work of the craftsmen who inherit them. If you're interested in traditional Japanese crafts, be sure to check it out!

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

立山黒部アルペンルートとは ここでは、立山黒部アルペンルートに広がる観光スポット"立山ロープウェイ"について『（TKAR011）立山黒部アルペンルート 立山ロープウェイ- Tateyama Ropeway -【4K】JAPAN』という動画を元に紹介していきます。 立山黒部アルペンルートとは、標高3,000mにもなる山々で構成された北アルプスを貫く、世界でも有数の山岳観光ルートのことを指します。 バスやトロリーバス、ケーブルカーにロープウェイという乗り物を乗り継いでいくだけで、立山黒部アルペンルートの素晴らしい絶景を堪能することが出来ます。 立山ロープウェイとは 立山ロープウェイは、立山黒部アルペンルートの途中にある大観峰駅と黒部平駅を繋いでいます。 立山ロープウェイは、ワンスパン方式という雪崩を防ぐために支柱を1本も使わず、駅と駅の間に張られたメインロープ（支索）の上を走行する方式を景観と環境の為に採用しています。 ワンスパンロープウェイとして日本一の運行距離を誇り、動画でも紹介されている立山黒部アルペンルートにある立山連峰等の絶景の大パノラマを堪能することが出来る有数の観光スポットです。 大観峰駅には展望台もあるので、ぜひ美しい景色をご覧下さい。 立山ロープウェイだけじゃない！立山黒部アルペンルートの魅力 立山ロープウェイに焦点を当てた動画でしたが、立山黒部アルペンルートの観光名所としての魅力はそれだけに留まりません。 立山山麓の絶景を楽しむことが出来る美女平、トロリーバスで通る立山トンネル、4月から6月にかけて巨大な雪の壁を見ることが出来る雪の大谷等、観光スポットが盛り沢山です。 立山ロープウェイのまとめ 四季や気候によって違った美しさを見せる立山黒部アルペンルート、動画では紅葉がメインでしたが、冬には雪によってまた違った顔を見せてくれるので、ぜひ観光目的で足を運んで見て下さい。 立山ロープウェイと立山黒部アルペンルートが織りなす景色の素晴らしさに、動画以上の感動を味わえること間違い無しです。

Imizu City's Kamaboko This video, titled "Shinminato Kamaboko- Imizu City, Toyama" (新湊かまぼこ -富山県射水市- Shinminato Kamaboko -Imizushi,Toyama,Japan-), was produced by "_kashi77." It shows the manufacturing process of kamaboko (fish cake), a local specialty of former Shinminato, Imizu city, Toyama, in the Hokuriku region. Kamaboko is a kind of "kneaded paste product" that is made by making white fish meat into surimi (minced meat) and then kneading it. It's also a Japanese food used in New Year's dishes for New Year's celebrations. In this way, it is an indispensable and popular Japanese food. Cod, shark, golden threadfin, wrasse and other white fish are used as ingredients; however, "Shinminato Kamaboko" uses surimi made from tile fish to enhance the flavor of the minced meat. It's called "Kamaboko" when steamed, "chikuwa" when baked, and "satsuma-age (a type of tempura) when fried and eaten. The origin of the word kamaboko comes from wrapping the surimi around a bamboo stick in a tubular shape. Because the shape resembled the ear (boko) of a cattail (kama), it came to be called "Kamaboko." Making Kamaboko Source :YouTube screenshot Here, we'll introduce how kamaboko are made. 1. Preparation Cut the raw fish into three pieces, removing the bones, innards, and skin. 2. Cut it up into smaller pieces Finely chop it with a knife. 3. Soak in water Soak the minced fish in water to get rid of the odor This is an important part of the process to bring out the elasticity of the kamaboko. 4. Drain Remove water from the fish until it is dried. 5. Surimi Grind it down finely. 6. Seasoning Season with salt, egg whites, and other ingredients. 7. Molding There are different types of kamaboko such as "Ita Kamaboko," which involves molding the ingredients into a half cylindrical shape, onto a small board made of wood such as cedar; and "Sumaki Kamaboko," which involves wrapping straw around the ingredients. As you can see at 0:12 in the video, each Kamaboko is made by hand, one by one, into the shape of a fish. 8. Steam The kamaboko is then steamed. This can be seen at 0:55 in the video. 9. Decorate As you can see at 1:06 of the video, they decorate the steamed kamaboko with colors, such as the pink of a sea bream and other colors and patterns. More About Kamaboko In Toyama Prefecture, kamaboko is famous as a gift for celebratory occasions, and it is used as a gift for engagement ceremonies and wedding receptions. In addition, kamaboko is often presented at births and milestones in life, such as entrance exams, graduations, coming of age ceremonies, housewarmings, and at Buddhist ceremonies. It is said to be customary to cut kamaboko that was received as a wedding gift and to distribute it to people who are close to you and to neighbors in order to share the joy. Toyama prefecture’s consumption of kamaboko is said to be the 6th highest in Japan. Kamaboko is often given as an end-of-the-year gift or present and it's possible to purchase it from online retailers such as Amazon or Rakuten. Fishing and Cuisine Around Imizu City Photo：Firefly squid with vinegar miso Toyama prefecture, where Imizu city is located, is home to Toyama Bay where you can catch delicious and nutritious seafood. The seafood caught in Toyama Bay consists of, white shrimp, firefly squid, and yellowtail caught in the cold season. Himi’s cold season yellowtail is rich in fat and melts in your mouth. Himi's yellowtail is a gourmet's delight, with its fatty, melt-in-your-mouth taste. Trout sushi is another popular local specialty in Toyama. Summary of Kamaboko, the Local Specialty of Imizu City, Toyama Japan has its own unique culture that has been nurtured by the customs of each region. Kamaboko, a craft perfect for celebrations, is a tradition in Imizu City, Toyama and Miyagi Prefecture. The Shin-Minato Hikiyama Festival, which heralds the arrival of autumn in Imizu City, Toyama Prefecture, is introduced at 2:02 in the video. This festival, along with kamaboko, is part of traditional culture that has been handed down through generations in Imizu city. What did you think of Izumi's kamaboko? At Yume Terrace Kaiou, a museum of food and health in Imizu City, around 40 different kinds of kamaboko, such as kelp-wrapped kamaboko and sea bream-shaped kamaboko, as well as local marine products and healthy teas, are available at reasonable prices. You can also visit the kamaboko factory that shown in the video, and experience making kamaboko yourself. At the Yume Terrace Kaio, there are no restaurants or cafes, so you will not be able to have lunch; you can buy some kamaboko as a souvenir and eat it to keep yourself nourished. A popular souvenir is the kamaboko chips. When you visit Toyama prefecture, be sure to try the Shinminato Kamaboko introduced in the video!

Video introduction of "Kuronagi Onsen Ryokan" in Kurobe City, Toyama Prefecture, a famous hot spring in Japan. This video, titled is a promotional video for Kuronagi onsen called "[Official] A Hidden Hot Spring in Kurobe Canyon, Kurobe｜Kuronagi Onsen, Drone 4k" ([公式]黒部峡谷の秘湯 黒薙温泉旅館　ドローン4K), was created by "[Official] Kuronagi Onsen Ryokan." It has been said that Kuronagi Onsen was discovered in 1645 by