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Video article 3:46
HOSHINOYA Karuizawa: An Exquisite Hotel in Nagano Prefecture That Showcases the Natural Landscape of Japan. Get a Taste of Luxury at One of Japan's Most Popular Resorts!
Hotel & Japanese Inn- 154 plays
- YouTube
HOSHINOYA Karuizawa: A Must-Stay Hotel in Karuizawa This video, titled "HOSHINOYA Karuizawa: Our Guiding Principles" (星のや 軽井沢【コンセプト紹介】), produced by Jin Takano, introduces HOSHINOYA Karuizawa, a hotel in Karuizawa, Nagano. HOSHINOYA Karuizawa offers a precious opportunity to experience traditional Japanese culture while enjoying a luxurious time. The hotel is a popular destination for sightseeing as well as resort weddings. The hotel is easily accessible from Karuizawa Station and parking is also available. Indulge in the supreme luxury of HOSHINOYA. If you are planning a sightseeing trip to Karuizawa or looking to stay at an onsen ryokan (Japanese hot spring inn), we recommend booking the longed-for HOSHINOYA Karuizawa. The video starts off with the words "Through the adoption of Western culture, Japan has been able to modernize. What kind of scenery might we have seen had Japan had stayed true to what made it unique? Perhaps an entirely different Japan." Enjoy the traditional beauty of Japan, which has been well received by travelers on review and comparison sites, at HOSHINOYA Karuizawa. A Splendid Stay Surrounded by Nature Source :YouTube screenshot HOSHINOYA Karuizawa itself is a magnificent resort town complete with a spacious pond and a wooded walkway where you can relax and enjoy the natural flowers. On the way to the park, there are many places of interest, such as teahouses and terraced rice fields, that offer visitors a chance to relax and unwind. You can also enjoy nature watching tours offered at Karuizawa National Wild Bird Sanctuary Forest near HOSHINOYA. The video offers you a glimpse at the natural scenery that can be enjoyed at the hotel. Information on Facilities: Three Different Room Types Source :YouTube screenshot Hotel HOSHINOYA Karuizawa's Japanese-style room, "Valley Village," is built around a vast waterfront area where guests can relax and enjoy the natural scenery of the four seasons. The most extravagant pavilion "Mizunami" is a wonderful room where you can spend time listening to the sound of flowing water and feeling the beauty of nature from the terrace. Other rooms include "Yamaroji" which has a Japanese-style hinoki bath, and "Niwaroji," which offers a tranquil Japanese garden view. Feel free to choose which one suits your taste. The hotel offers a wide range of amenities that will make your stay unforgettable. Fine Dining and Relaxing Baths Source :YouTube screenshot The open-air baths, a distinctive feature of luxury ryokan, are one of the attractions of HOSHINOYA Karuizawa. There are two facilities at Hoshinoya Karuizawa: Tombo no Yu and the Meditation Bath. There are also in-room baths as well. You can see the onsen at 2:05 in the video. You can also see the seasonally available "apple bath" in the video. The fragrant aroma of apples helps you feel at ease. After bathing in the large bathhouse, change into a yukata and enjoy a delicious Japanese meal. Now it is time to enjoy Japanese dinner. The restaurant "Japanese Cuisine Kisuke" at HOSHINOYA Karuizawa serves Japanese cuisine that uses local ingredients for both breakfast and dinner. You can see the cuisine at 1:45 in the video. Summary of HOSHINOYA Karuizawa As you can see in the video, Hoshinoya Karuizawa is a hotel where you can spend time relaxing in harmony with nature. The sound of the water in the Japanese garden, the sound of the hot spring, and the natural breeze provide the perfect background music for this video as well, giving it a sense of luxury. Enjoy visiting Shiraito Falls, Mt. Asama, Karuizawa Prince Shopping Plaza, and Old Karuizawa Ginza Shopping Street in the area. Enjoy the natural beauty of Japan, hospitality, and leisurely sightseeing at HOSHINOYA Karuizawa, as well as exquisite meals and relaxing baths. ◆Information on HOSHINOYA Karuizawa Hotel◆ 【Address】2148 Nagakura, Karuizawa-machi, Kitasaku-gun, Nagano, 389-0111 【Access】15 minutes by taxi or shuttle bus from Karuizawa Station of JR East Shinano Railway 【Parking】Available 【Telephone】+81-267-45-6000 【Official Website】HOSHINOYA Karuizawa Hotel https://hoshinoya.com/karuizawa/en/ 【Tripadvisor】HOSHINOYA KARUIZAWA https://www.tripadvisor.com/Hotel_Review-g325581-d1167308-Reviews-HOSHINOYA_Karuizawa-Karuizawa_machi_Kitasaku_gun_Nagano_Prefecture_Koshinetsu_Chubu.html -
Video article 3:05
An Encounter With the Specially Protected Rock Ptarmigan While Mountain Climbing! A Look at the Ecology of the Endangered Species and Where You Can Find It!
Living Things Nature- 204 plays
- YouTube
The Rock Ptarmigan - An Endangered Species This video, titled "Endangered Species|Rock Ptarmigan|A Precious Encounter Whilst Mountain Climbing|Special Edition (4k)" (絶滅危惧種 雷鳥 登山で出会った貴重なニホンライチョウ動画 特集 【4K】), was created by "Yamacchi channel" (やまっちchannel). It contains footage of the rock ptarmigan, a protected species in Japan, as well as the Crested ibis and Red-crowned crane. Due to the effects of global warming, the number of rock ptarmigan in Japan has dwindled to around 1,500 and it is now recognized as an endangered species. This video contains a compilation of footage of the adorable rock ptarmigan, which was spotted whilst mountain climbing. In this article, we'll introduce the rock ptarmigan, an endangered species! More About the Rock Ptarmigan, an Endangered Species Photo:Tateyama ptarmigan Said to have survived the ice age, the rock ptarmigan is now an endangered species belonging to the order Galliformes, family Phasianidae and genus Lagopus (キジ目キジ科ライチョウ属, kijimokukijikaraichouzoku). The subspecies of rock ptarmigan which inhabits Japan is a very adorable and friendly bird, making it a favorite among mountain climbers. It has a characteristic call that sounds similar to that of a frog. From 0:14 in the video you can see the rock ptarmigan at Mt. Senjo (仙丈ヶ岳, senjogatake), and at Mt. Tsubakuro (燕岳, tsubakurodake) from 1:38, Mt. Chogatake (蝶ヶ岳, chougatake) from 2:09, and Mt. Jonen (常念岳, jounendake) at 2:04. Rock ptarmigan chicks average 6 cm in height. A fully grown adult rock ptarmigan measures 37 cm in height and weighs approximately 400-600g. They lay their eggs in early summer from the beginning to the middle of June. The color of their feathers also changes depending on the season. In summer, their feathers are a dark brown color, and in winter they change to a snowy white. Furthermore, the rock ptarmigan is a symbol of Toyama Prefecture (富山県 toyamaken), Nagano Prefecture (長野県, naganoken) and Gifu Prefecture (岐阜県, gifuken). Photo:Northern Alps The rock ptarmigan lives in a harsh environment at an altitude of 2,400 m. In the warmer summer months they live in the alpine zone, moving to the subalpine zone in the cooler winter months. In 1980, there were an estimated 3,000-4,000 rock ptarmigans living in Japan. However that number has dropped to around 1,500. The effects of global warming are considered to have been the direct cause of this decrease in numbers. It is thought that the decrease in creeping pine (ハイマツ, haimatsu) numbers, a main food source for the rock ptarmigan, due to global warming is one of the main causes of the decline in rock ptarmigan numbers. Several measures are being taken in order to conserve the rock ptarmigan, such as protecting the species from predators and breeding in zoos. Incidentally, rock ptarmigans have been kept in Ueno zoo (上野動物園, uenodoubutsuen) since 2019. The Habitat of the Endangered Rock Ptarmigan Photo:Tateyama mountain range and a ptarmigan There are 6 genera and 17 species of rock ptarmigan found across the world. They can be found in North America, the coast of the Arctic Ocean in Eurasia, Europe, and the alpine zone in Asia. In Japan, they inhabit the central area of Honshu (Japan's main island) (本州中部地方, honshuuchuubuchihou). In this video, you can see footage of the rock ptarmigan spotted whilst climbing Mt. Senjo, Mt. Chogatake, Mt. Tsubakuro and Mt. Jonen. Snacks shaped like rock ptarmigan are sold in Nagano prefecture, the home of the Northern Alps. A similar bird, the Hazel grouse (エゾライチョウ, ezoraichou), of the genus Tetrastes (エゾライチョウ属, ezoraichouzoku), inhabits Hokkaido (北海道), Japan's northernmost Island. Summary of the Endangered Rock Ptarmigan Source :YouTube screenshot This video "Endangered Species|Rock Ptarmigan|a Precious Encounter Whilst Mountain Climbing|Special Edition (4k)," created by "Yamacchi channel" (やまっちchannel), contains footage of the rock ptarmigan, an endangered species. We highly recommend the video to animal lovers as it has footage of the rock ptarmigan from different places all over Japan! This video of the adorable rock ptarmigan is guaranteed to bring a smile to your face! -
Video article 6:23
"Le Grand Karuizawa Hotel & Resort" in Nagano Prefecture Fascinates Visitors From All Over the World. Celebrate the Most Important Day of Your Life With Their Wedding Plan!
Hotel & Japanese Inn Travel- 115 plays
- YouTube
Le Grand Karuizawa Hotel & Resort This video created by Le Grand Karuizawa introduces Le Grand Karuizawa Hotel & Resort, and is titled "Le Grand Karuizawa Hotel and Resort, Promotional Video"(ルグラン軽井沢 ホテル&リゾート プロモーションムービー). Karuizawa-Cho, in Nagano prefecture, is one of the luxury mountain resorts in Japan, and located at an altitude of 1000 meters above sea level. We are going to introduce “Le Grand Karuizawa Hotel & Resort,” where you can experience the highest-quality customer service, located at the foot of Mount Asama in Nagano in the Koshinetsu region which is famous for its Onsen (hot springs). In this video, you will see the wedding hall, onsen, and rooms that will make your wedding day unforgettable. Enjoy the video of the place that will be the grounds for the happiest day of your life. What is “Le Grand Karuizawa Hotel & Resort” Source :YouTube screenshot “Le Grand Karuizawa Hotel & Resort” is a luxury resort hotel located at the foot of Mount Asama (浅間山,Asama san) in Karuizawa-Cho, Nagano in Shinshu in Japan. Access is 15 minutes from Karuizawa JR station by car. They also provide a shuttle bus service between the station and the hotel. The affiliated hotel "Le Grand Kyu Karuizawa hotel" is located nearby. “Le Grand Karuizawa Hotel & Resort” Wedding Plans Source :YouTube screenshot The video mainly introduces wedding plans. A wedding is supposed to be the most special day of your life. In this video, the introduction of their wedding plan starts around 2:43. “Le Grand Karuizawa Hotel & Resort” has a large premises for a wedding venue. With the chapel, the beautiful garden and terrace tables, they provide the most wonderful experience to everyone at the wedding ceremony. A lot of people may feel Karuizawa is a place for special occasions because it is known as a vacation region. This hotel has highly-rated reviews on its wedding plans compared to other hotels in the region, and a lot of its customers have had a great start to the next chapter in their life here. They regularly hold a bridal fair or event in Ginza Salon in Tokyo so that people can discuss or consult about the wedding plans without actually going to the site. It is also a part of the reason that it has such a good reputation. “Le Grand Karuizawa Hotel & Resort”: Rooms and the Extensive Onsen Area Source :YouTube screenshot “Le Grand Karuizawa Hotel & Resort” has three types of rooms. One in the main building furnished with European Antiques, one in the Villa Suite, and one in the highest-grade luxury "Yamanoue Suite" so customers can choose the room they would like to stay in. They also have multiple bathing facilities for customers to choose from depending on their mood that day. There's the large public bath "Komorebi" which is filled with natural Onsen water, a private bath, a Tembo-buro (a bath with a nice outside view), and Happu Onsen. Because Nagano prefecture is featured for its many onsen, you can enjoy a variety of luxurious onsen here. Happu Onsen is Hydrogen Carbonate Spring which is known as one of three "Hot Springs of Beauty"(the top three springs contain chemicals that benefit health and beauty) in Japan. Happu Onsen has positive effects on wounds and skin conditions. A day trip is also possible. Around 1:37 in the video, you can see the hotel rooms and around 1:02 the onsen are shown. Facilities of “Le Grand Karuizawa Hotel & Resort” Source :YouTube screenshot On the hotel's large premises, there are swimming pools, gardens, a spa, and a gym as well. Spend your quality time however you would like. In the mountain area, there is a "Yamanoue sweet terrace/activity deck" located 1000 meters above sea level. In the main building, there is a classical style main entrance, a garden decorated with seasonal flowers, a boutique for gifts and "SPA LA VILLA" where you can enjoy a facial massage in a relaxing room. They also have rooms called "Prive.Lac," "Bell Foret," and "En Chante" for meeting and banquet purposes. “Le Grand Karuizawa Hotel & Resort” Restaurants and Bars Their French restaurant "Vaas" provides French gourmet with seasonal ingredients produced by Japan. There is also a Grilled restaurant called "Grill Mille "serving Grilled meals with ingredients produced by the Shinshu region, "Karuizawa French," and "ASAMA Café." Enjoy drinking at the bar "Rouge" and the "Poolside Bar" at night. A variety of different cuisines are also served for breakfast. Sightseeing Around “Le Grand Karuizawa Hotel & Resort” Photo:Shiraito Falls There are many tourist spots in Karuizawa, in Nagano prefecture where “Le Grand Karuizawa Hotel & Resort” is located at. "Karuizawa Prince Shopping Plaza (軽井沢 プリンス ショッピングプラザ, Karuizawa Prince Shopping Plaza)" the mall with 240 stores, "Uchimura Kanzo Memorial Stone Church (石の教会 内村鑑三記念堂, Ishinokyoukai Uchimura Kanzo Kinendo)" stone & glass church, "Shiraito Falls (白糸の滝, Shiraito no Taki)" the waterfalls designated as a Japanese natural monument as well as a national scenic spot, "Hiroshi Senju Museum Karuizawa (軽井沢千住博美術館, Karuizawa Senju Hiroshi Bijutsukan)" which has a great ambiance, "Kumoba Pond (雲場池, Kumoba Ike)" also known as "Swan Lake (スワンレイク)", "Karuizawa Hoshino Area (軽井沢星野エリア, Karuizawa Hoshino Area)" which great writers and artists gathered and created their community in Taisho era, "Karuizawa Taliesin (軽井沢タリアセン, Karuizawa Tariasen)" a resort facility where there are many shops and leisure venues, "Old Usui Outlooks (旧碓氷峠見晴台, KyuUsuitouge Miharashidai)" near the top of the Usui, outlook park which is located at an altitude of 1200m, "Karuizawa Lake Garden (軽井沢レイクガーデン, Karuizawa Lake garden)" where there are 8 garden areas and one great lake in the garden, and "Old Karuizawa Ginza Street (旧軽井沢銀座道,Kyu Karuizawa Ginzado) " where several hundreds of tourists visit every year. If you're making a trip to “Le Grand Karuizawa Hotel & Resort” consider checking out some of these spots as well. Recap of “Le Grand Karuizawa Hotel & Resort” As shown in the video, “Le Grand Karuizawa Hotel & Resort” provides the best customer service experience (Omotenashi in Japanese) to its customers and that is one of the reasons it is so popular. We weren't able to show how the staff provides customer service and room service in this video but we're sure that you'll be satisfied with them as well. For more details about the hotel's facilities, room amenities and tourist spots nearby, be sure to visit their website. Accommodation fees differ by season, room, and plan. Please check the rates on their website or other hotel booking websites when you make a reservation. ◆About “Le Grand Karuizawa Hotel & Resort”◆ 【Address】864-4 Hotchi, Karuizawa, Kitasaku, Nagano 389-0113 【Access】About 15 minutes from Karuizawa JR station by car 【Parking】Yes. Limited to 45 spots 【Phone】0267-48-0099 【Official Website】Karuizawa hotel / Le Grand Kyu Karuizawa https://www.legrand-karuizawa.jp/en/ 【Tripadvisor】"Le Grand Karuizawa Hotel & Resort" https://www.tripadvisor.com/Hotel_Review-g325581-d10384974-Reviews-Le_Grand_Kyukaruizawa-Karuizawa_machi_Kitasaku_gun_Nagano_Prefecture_Koshinetsu_Chubu.htmlshinetsu_Chubu.html -
Video article 3:34
Spend a Blissful Time in Atera Valley in Nagano Prefecture's Kiso District, a Place of Fresh, Greenery! The Murmuring of the River, Full of Negative Ions, Will Soothe Your Soul!
Nature- 117 plays
- YouTube
長野県の美しき景観「阿寺渓谷」紹介動画について こちらの動画は「haruyuki onoue」が公開した「新緑とエメラルドグリーンの阿寺渓谷・4K」です。 長野県木曽郡大桑村には現代日本で失われつつある雄大な景色・自然が楽しめる地があります。 こちらの動画で紹介する阿寺渓谷です。 こちらの記事では阿寺渓谷の魅力からその周辺情報に至るまでチェックしておくべき情報をまとめました。 長野県木曽郡大桑村の阿寺渓谷とは 阿寺渓谷は厳密に言うと、長野県と岐阜県にまたがっている阿寺山地を源流とし それを皮切りに支流の阿寺川は長野県が誇る一級河川の木曽川に流れ着くまでのほぼ全域を指します。 源流から木曽川に流れ着く過程で吉報の滝や犬帰りの淵などの名所・絶景スポットが点在しています。 またこの流域には学術面から文化的な一面を覗かせており、日本でもココ一帯だけにしか存在しないような希少種の生物や植物があるのです。 全長約20kmの阿寺渓谷のうち管理区間が約2/3となっています。 管理区間のうち阿寺渓谷入口からキャンプ場までをウォーキングで景色を見ながら散策することが一般的となっています。 さらに釣りの名所として阿寺渓谷は知られています。 阿寺渓谷へのアクセスおよび周辺情報 マイカーで向かう場合は阿寺渓谷入口付近に駐車場があります。 阿寺渓谷入口からすでにヒノキや岩などが見え、そこからでも雄大な自然を感じ取ることができます。 特に夏季は観光客が増加するシーズンですので、交通規制がかかってしまい不便な思いをしてしまうかもしれません。 鉄道を利用する人はJR野尻駅で降りて、そこからシャトルバスを利用しましょう。 長野県の美しき景観「阿寺渓谷」の楽しみ方 阿寺渓谷と言えばやっぱりエメラルドグリーンの清流とその周りにある新緑のヒノキ美林でしょう。 川のせせらぎと水しぶきがマイナスイオンを与え、癒されますね。 さすが長野県の信州が誇る人気スポット! さらに上流へ行くと『美顔水』という湧き水が流れていてそこで顔を洗うと色白美人になると噂されているので、それを求めてやってくる人もいます。 また自然を満喫する目的と合わせハイキングにもなります。 気候が変わる秋に訪れるとエメラルドグリーンの清流はそのままに周りの美林が紅葉へ姿を変えているので、夏とは違う景色が楽しめます。 長野県の美しき景観「阿寺渓谷」紹介まとめ 長野県が全国に誇る新緑とエメラルドグリーンが特徴的な阿寺渓谷について紹介しました。 長野県に訪れるなら阿寺渓谷は外せません! 美しい絶景を写真に収めてあなたの歴史の1ページに! -
Video article 3:36
Feel the Arrival of Spring With the Red and White Plum Trees by the Lake and the Scent of Flowers from the 1,000 Plum Trees in Full Bloom in Shinshu-Shinmachi, Nagano!
Nature- 124 plays
- YouTube
長野県信州新町の「ろうかく梅園」について こちらの動画は「haruyuki onoue」が公開した「信州新町のろうかく梅園2019・4K」です。 こちらの動画では長野県信州新町の「ろうかく梅園」をご紹介します。 4Kで撮影された「ろうかく梅園」の梅の花の映像は非常に美しいのでぜひ御覧ください。 「ろうかく湖」は信州新町の犀川の中に作られた人工の湖です。 その「ろうかく湖」に架かる橋を渡ると長野県が誇る名所信州新町の「ろうかく梅園」が見えます。 4ヘクタールの梅園では竜峡小梅という品種の梅を生産しています。 満開の梅は紅白のコントラストが絶景です。 更に、夏には花火大会が行われるなど四季折々のイベントが行われています。 楼閣梅園の梅の見頃 信州新町「ろうかく梅園」の開花状況は長野市のホームページにて確認できます。 例年の見頃は3月下旬から4月頃上旬になります。 また、長野県には同様に伊那梅園という梅園もあり、こちらは2万坪に38種類もの梅が7,000本が植えられ、「ろうかく梅園」と並んでお花見の名所となっています。 こちらの梅園は標高850mの高地にあり、平地にある梅よりも遅い開花時期で鑑賞することができます。 梅肉エキスなどの梅に関するお土産も販売しています。 6月〜7月には梅の実を収穫する体験も行っているので様々な時期に訪れても楽しめます。 信州新町「ろうかく梅園」でジンギスカンを食べよう! 4月の初旬には「ろうかく梅園花祭り」が行われます。 花まつりの中で人気のグルメが信州新町名物のジンギスカンです。 焼肉や農産物・特産品なども販売されるのでお花見に合わせてこれらを楽しむのもおすすめです。 「ろうかく梅園」の花まつり期間中ではジンギスカンセットも販売されており、ござ・ガス・コンロ・鉄板などを貸し出ししているので手ぶらでジンギスカンを堪能しながら梅の景色を楽しむことができます。 信州新町は古くから羊の飼育をしており、そのためジンギスカン料理も有名になりました。 信州新町のジンギスカンはあらかじめお肉を漬け込んでおくのが特徴で、お店ごとに異なる味付けを比べてみるのも楽しいかもしれません。 「ろうかく梅園」へのアクセス 「ろうかく梅園」へのアクセスは長野方面から国道19号で信州新町川中島バス営業所先を左折して1分の場所にあります。 無料駐車場があるのでそちらを利用しましょう。 長野ICからは車で40分、新幹線では北陸新幹線長野駅からバスで45分、その後徒歩で10分ほど。 また周辺には善光寺や戸隠神社奥社などの歴史ある穴場スポットもありますよ。 長野県信州新町の「ろうかく梅園」紹介まとめ 長野県信州新町のろうかく梅園は全国にある梅の景勝地でもランキング上位の観光地です。 温暖な気候の春のはじまりに紅白それぞれの特徴を備えた梅とジンギスカンを楽しんでください! -
Video article 4:47
The Quaint, Private Getaway "Tokisumika" in Nagano Prefecture, Offering a Magnificent View of the Japan Alps! If You're Looking to Escape Daily Life in Luxury, This Is the Place for You
Hotel & Japanese Inn- 86 plays
- YouTube
PR Video for the Private Getaway Tokisumika! This video titled "2019 Full ver” is a promotional video for the private getaway in the Chuo Alps- Tokisumika. Kiso range (木曽山脈:Kiso mountain range) in Nagano(長野県:Nagano prefecture), Hida mountain range, and Akashi mountain range are collectively called the Japan Alps. The Chuo Alps, located in the center of the Japan Alps, is a popular tourist spot where people can enjoy different sceneries from all 4 seasons. Tokisumika, in the Chuo Alps, is a popular accommodation on travel and review sites. If you want to escape from daily life and feel the beauty of Nagano Prefecture's Chuo Alps, be sure to watch the video and take in all of the gorgeous views. What Kind of Place Is Tokisumika Source :YouTube screenshot When you arrive at the lobby, you'll hear the beautiful singing of an erhu (a two-stringed Chinese violin). The recommended guest rooms are the scenic Garden View Twin and the Japanese Garden Semi Suite Twin. There are other luxurious rooms such as the Garden Corner Twin, Riverside Corner Twin, and Garden Semi Suite Twin, and all of the rooms are comfortable and attractive. It is also recommended that you relax in the guest room with a semi-open-air bath. Unfortunately, there is no large public bath, but every room has a semi-open air bath equipped with various amenities. How to Spend Your Time at Tokisumika Source :YouTube screenshot At the restaurant "Aoi," You can enjoy original kaiseki meals (traditional Japanese meal brought in courses) prepared with ingredients from the local mountains in the southern part of Shinshu. With carefully selected ingredients and a motto of hospitality, the Japanese cuisine, prepared with local ingredients, is truly exquisite. The Ayurveda Indian massage service inside the hotel is also a great way to relax. There is also a wedding plan at "Kisumi Ka," a hidden inn tucked away in the Central Alps Grove. If you have a wedding ceremony here, the amazing views are sure to make for an unforgettable experience. Summary of Tokisumika! ©Suganu0405 Modifying Tokisumika is a hotel that offers a magnificent view of the Japan Alps. If you're staying here, it's recommended that you take the Komagatake Ropeway and walk around the different tourist spots of the Chuo Alps, such as the instagrammable "Senjojiki Cirque," "Kozenji Temple,” "Komakusa Bridge," or the "Komagane Local Museum." You can enjoy one day hot spring facilities at "Komakusa no yu" as well. We recommend taking a walk around Komagane Kogen (駒ヶ根高原: Komagane Highlands) to enjoy the overflowing nature. Accommodation fees vary by season and room type. Please see the official web-site or travel web sites for prices. If you haven't yet, be sure to watch the video about Tokisumika to get a better idea of what it's like. ◆Information about Tokisumika◆ 【Address】4-172 Akaho Komagane-shi Nagano 【Access】3 minutes by car from Komagane IC in Chuodo. A free shuttle bus is available from JR Komagane station (Reservation required) 【Parking】Available (Free) 【Telephone Number】0265-95-2446 【Official Website】The Private Getaway Tokisumika https://www.tokisumika.com/ 【Tripadvisor】The Private Getaway Tokisumika https://www.tripadvisor.com/Hotel_Review-g1021315-d12687372-Reviews-Chuo_Alps_Mori_no_Kakureyado_Tokisumika-Komagane_Nagano_Prefecture_Koshinetsu_Chubu.html -
Video article 2:11
18 Ski Areas at Shiga Kogen Ski Resort in Nagano Prefecture! As One of Japan's Biggest Ski Spots Its the Mecca of Winter Sports!
Things to Do- 61 plays
- YouTube
A Look at Shiga Kogen! This video, titled "Shigakogen PV 2019," released by the "Shiga Kogen Cableway Association," is an introductory video of the Shiga Kogen Ski Resort in Nagano Prefecture. Shiga Kogen is a plateau in the central area of Joshinetsu Kogen National Park, located in Yamanochi, Shimotakai, Nagano and has an elevation of more than 2,000 meters. It is known as one of the largest ski resort areas in Japan and has also been designated as UNESCO Eco Park. Shiga Kogen Ski Resort was also the first ski resort in Japan to have a ski lift installed. After that, a new pulse gondola, snowboard slopes, and a snow park were installed, and it became a Mecca for winter sports in the Chubu region. A Look at the Shiga Kogen Ski Resort Featured in the Video Source :YouTube screenshot At the Shiga Kogen Ski Resort, there are 18 courses. They are as follows: ・Sun Valley Ski Area [Video 0:03] ・Maruike Ski Area [Video 0:07] ・Hasuike Ski Area [Video 0:10] ・Giant Ski Area [Video 0:14] ・Ichinose Family Ski Area [Video 0:17] ・Ichinose Diamond Ski Area [Video 0:21] ・Ichinose Yamanokami Ski Area [Video 0:25] ・Takamagahara Mammoth Ski Area [Video 0:29] ・Higashidateyama Ski Area [Video 0:33] ・Nishidateyama Ski Area [Video 0:36] ・Hoppo Bunadaira Ski Area [Video 0:40] ・Tannenomori Okojo Ski Area [Video 0:44] ・Terakoya Ski Area [Video 0:47] ・Okushiga Ski Area [Video 0:51] ・Yakebitaiyama Ski Area (Yakebitaiyama) [Video 0:55] ・Kumanoyu Ski Area [Video 0:59] ・Yokoteyama Ski Area [Video 1:03] ・Shibutoge Ski Area [Video 1:06] Sightseeing at Shiga Kogen During Summer and Autumn Photo:Jigokudani Hot Springs Shiga Kogen is great not only for winter, as shown in the video, but also for hiking/trekking during spring and summer and in autumn when the leaves change color. There are mountain trails, promenades, and campgrounds so you can enjoy relaxing activities in the great outdoors. At Shiga Kogen, you'll see natural phenomena related to volcanoes, weather, and water conditions, such as the Jigokudani Hot Springs at Shibutoge which has been designated a national natural monument, or the branches of the deciduous broad-leaf trees that are prone to the formation of rime. Shiga Kogen is also getting attention as a habitat for animals such as stoats, Asian black bears, Japanese serow, and golden eagles, as well as plants such as beech and oak trees. At Shiga Kogen, there's also the Prince Hotel and other charming onsen (hot springs) to enjoy. Here we'll list a few of them. ・Kumanoyu Onsen ・Kidoike Onsen ・Kumanoyu Hotaru Onsen ・Shigayama Onsen ・Takamagahara Onsen ・Makuiwa Onsen ・Maruike/Hasuike Onsen Summary of Shiga Kogen Photo:Shiga Kogen Shiga Kogen is an attractive tourist spot where you can enjoy different scenery in every season. Shiga Kogen Ski Resort also has a ski school and equipment rental plans, so even beginners can easily try out to the slopes. We recommend checking directions and price information beforehand and also checking the snowfall using the live cameras as well. 【Official Website】Shiga Kogen Ski Resort https://www.shigakogen-ski.com/en -
Video article 10:06
Traditional Japanese Osechi Dishes Made by a Japanese Grandma. Learn Life Lessons From the Energetic Grandma Masami
Food & Drink Traditional Culture- 73 plays
- YouTube
Grandma's Osechi-ryori: Video Introduction This video, titled "Grandma's Recipes|Grandma Masami's Osechi" (Grandma's Recipes|まさみおばあちゃんのおせち), was uploaded by "Grandma's Recipes." Osechi-ryori is a traditional Japanese dish eaten on New Year's in Japan. In Japan, people are so accustomed to Osechi-ryori that many people don't know about the meanings attached to the dish. In this article, we'll take a look at traditional Japanese Osechi-ryori through the recipes of Grandma Masami who has lived through 4 Japanese eras. Grandma Masami left her parents' house at the age of 8 and began working, and she is now 99 years old. In just half of her life, she endured many hardships, including two wars, the Great Kanto Earthquake, the Isewan Typhoon, the Great Hanshin Earthquake, and the Great East Japan Earthquake. Even so, she says with a smile how she lived an ordinary life. In this day and age when it's difficult to live an "ordinary life," these words must have a very significant meaning. The purpose of these videos is to learn recipes for happiness from energetic grandmothers over the age of 80 who have lived through turbulent lives. This video focuses on Osechi-ryori, a recipe for happiness handed down by a grandma in Nagano, Japan. The History of Osechi and Its Name Photo:Osechi-ryori Osechi-ryori was originally prepared as an offering to New Year's gods during seasonal festivals, such as Sechie (an official event held at the Japanese Imperial Court on national holidays) and Sekku. It is said that it was not until the Edo period (1603-1868 A.D.) that they began to be served in stacked boxes and prepared as New Year's dishes as they are in modern-day Japan. "Osechi" is written as either "お節" or "御節" in Japanese. This naming also comes from Sekku, and the common interpretation is that the meaning is an abbreviation of Sechie. Classic and Regional Recipes for Osechi-ryori Photo:Osechi-ryori, three side dishes Although there are regional differences in osechi-ryori recipes, the basic recipe consists of three celebratory dishes (three side dishes), nishime (simmered vegetables), sunomono (pickled or vinegared food), and yakimono (grilled food). These three dishes are commonly made across Japan with black soybeans and herring roe. However, there is a difference: in Japan's Kanto region they use gomame (dried young anchovies), while in the Kansai region they use tataki-gobou (burdock root seasoned with sesame). The most common style of osechi-ryori is to use a four-tiered box containing 20 to 30 different dishes. Some of the most popular classic dishes in osechi-ryori are datemaki (a rolled omelette mixed with fish paste), kinton (mashed sweet potatoes), kohaku namasu (thinly sliced carrots and daikon radish), kamaboko, grilled sea bream, teriyaki amberjack, simmered tiger prawns, boiled clam, kombu-maki (sliced dried herring or other fish wrapped in kombu seaweed and boiled), and chikuzenni. The use of such auspicious and high-quality ingredients as sea bream, amberjack, and prawns gives the dish a celebratory atmosphere on this special day. In recent years, ingredients for osechi-ryori can be found in supermarkets after Christmas. There are many items that are nearly fully prepared, so osechi-ryori are relatively convenient to eat nowadays. The Meanings Behind Osechi-ryori Photo:Osechi-ryori, kurikinton Here are some of the meanings and hopes attached to osechi-ryori. ●Kurikinton (chestnuts and mashed sweet potatoes) In addition to its gorgeous and beautiful golden appearance, chestnuts are said to bring good luck in victory and prosperity. ●Kuromame (black soybeans) This dish is to wish for good health and the power to work another year. ●Kazunoko (herring roe) This dish is associated with wishes for prosperity of one's children. This dish is a celebratory food, and is associated with fertility. Photo:Osechi-ryori, Kombu-maki ●Kombu-maki Kombu is associated with happiness and comfort in old age. Kombu-maki, a type of kelp roll, is also used as a symbol of union and contains wishes of prosperity for one's offspring. Grandma Masami's One-Person Osechi-ryori It is becoming more and more common to have osechi-ryori delivered on New Year's Eve or New Year's Day in Japan, rather than making them at home, through commercial or online delivery services. Osechi-ryori themselves are becoming more and more varied, with Chinese, French, and even children's osechi-ryori appearing at the end of the year, rather than being solely Japanese style. The focus of this video, Grandma Masami, is now 99 years old! She lives alone, but she makes her own osechi-ryori every year. Although it looks like a simple osechi for one person, the handmade miso soup made from dried sardines, walnut rice cakes, steamed rolls, kinpira, namasu, and nishime all look delicious. [Video] 5:00 - Making Burdock and Carrot Kinpira [Video] 7:14 - Making Steamed Rolls Soybeans – The Secret to a Long Life? Photo:Soybeans When Grandma Masami is asked about the secret to her long life, she explains how she was poor and worked hard, but ate a lot of soybeans and other legumes, saying that maybe this was the secret to her good health. When Grandma Masami is asked about the secret to her long life, she explains how she was poor and worked hard, but ate a lot of soybeans and other legumes, saying that maybe this was the secret to her good health. Soy sauce, miso, natto, tofu, okara (soy pulp), and soybean flour. We can see that soybeans are as important an ingredient in the Japanese diet as rice. It's also an essential ingredient for making osechi-ryori. Soybeans are said to be a "kanzen shokuzai" (完全食材, a food that contains all the nutrients necessary for humans to maintain good health) with a well-balanced combination of lecithin, dietary fiber, isoflavones, protein, carbohydrates, and various vitamins and minerals. It's no exaggeration to say that soybeans are the secret to the longevity of the Japanese people. Soybeans have played a prominent role in Japanese food and the health of the Japanese people since the Heian period nearly a thousand years ago. Summary of a Japanese Grandma's Osechi-ryori While gorgeous osechi-ryori are a feast for the eyes, simple and healthy homemade osechi-ryori like Grandma Masami's recipes are also good. Why not try making your own this winter? -
Video article 18:23
The Shinshu Ueda Fireworks Festival – An Up-Close Fireworks Display Created by Local Pyrotechnicians in Nagano Prefecture!
Festivals & Events Travel- 72 plays
- YouTube
The Shinshu Ueda Fireworks Festival of Ueda, Nagano: Video Introduction This video, titled "[4K] An Up-Close & Powerful Display! Sparks Rain From Above! The Shinshu Ueda Fireworks Festival 2018 Highlights" ([4K] 激近大迫力!- 火の粉が上から降ってくる - 信州上田大花火大会 2018 ハイライト - Shinshu Ueda Fireworks 2018 Highlights -), was uploaded by "AQUA Geo Graphic." Ueda, Nagano – The Town and the History of Shinshu Ueda Fireworks Festival Photo:Ueda from the Arato Castle Ruins Ueda, Nagano, located in Japan's Koshin'etsu region, is known as the birthplace of the three generations of Sanada, one of the most influential clans in Japanese history, and is a popular tourist destination with its historical and cultural heritage, magnificent nature, and hot springs that can be enjoyed in Japan's four seasons. The historical atmosphere of the city has led to it being used as a filming location for movies and TV dramas. Since it was the setting for the animated movie Summer Wars, some fans go on a tour of the places that served as models in the movie itself. The Shinshu Ueda Fireworks Festival is held every year on August 5 from the banks of the Chikuma River (Shinano River) in Ueda, Nagano, and usually attracts more than 100,000 spectators. The 36th Shinshu Ueda Fireworks Festival will be held on August 5, 2023. A Beautiful Fireworks Display Created by Skilled Pyrotechnicians Photo:Shinshu Ueda Fireworks Festival 2018 The Shinshu Ueda Fireworks Festival consists of a competition among three local fireworks companies. ・Beniya Aoki Fireworks (紅屋青木煙火店) ・Shinohara Fireworks (篠原煙火店) ・Musha Fireworks (武舎煙火工業) The Shinshu Ueda Fireworks Festival, which has become a summer tradition in Ueda, Nagano, is made possible by the advanced technology of three local firework companies. Normally, 3,000 stars are packed into a firework shell. If even a few of them are out of alignment, the resulting explosion will be lackluster. It is no exaggeration to say that the Shinshu Ueda Fireworks Festival is a success due to the incredibly skilled pyrotechnicians. The Shinshu Ueda Fireworks Festival – Up Close and Personal The Shinshu Ueda Fireworks Festival is a popular fireworks display in Nagano Prefecture because of its diverse program. The night sky is completely lit up as approximately 10,000 fireworks of various sizes are launched, centering on the gorgeous starmine and musical fireworks. In addition, the finale, a series of launches, is a spectacle that captivates the audience. The powerful music and the continuous launching of fireworks herald the arrival of summer in Ueda. One of the reasons why the Shinshu Ueda Fireworks Festival is said to be so powerful is that the spectator seats are close to where the fireworks are launched. Because of the proximity, the spectators are sometimes sprayed with sparks from the fireworks. Summary of the Shinshu Ueda Fireworks Festival The 31st Shinshu Ueda Fireworks Festival in 2018 was broadcast live on the Internet. The popularity of the event can be seen in the many photos and videos posted on Japanese Twitter as well. If you would like to experience not only the beauty of the fireworks seen in this video of the Shinshu Ueda Fireworks Festival, but also the power sounds and vibrations, considering seeing the fireworks in person. ◆Information for the 36th Shinshu Ueda Fireworks Festival 2023◆ 【Date】Saturday, August 5, 2023 from 7:00 p.m. 【Address】The Chikuma River (downstream from Tokidashin Bridge) 【Access】 Public Transportation: JR Ueda Station, Shinano Railway Ueda Station, Ueda Electric Railway Ueda Station→5 min. walk Car: 6 km/15 min. from Ueda-Sugadaira IC on the Joshinetsu Expressway via Route 144 【Parking】No parking available (please use paid parking lots around the venue) 【Official Website】UEDA – Nostalgic Japan/Nostalgic Castle Town https://go.ueda-kanko.or.jp/ -
Video article 3:37
Hakuba Happo One Snow Resort – The Finest Powder Snow for Skiing and Snowboarding in Nagano Prefecture! There Are Endless Ways To Have Fun Trekking, Climbing, Etc. in Hakuba Village, a Place Surrounded by the Great Outdoors!
Things to Do- 22 plays
- YouTube
Introducing Hakuba Happo One Snow Resort This video, titled "Hakuba Happo-One Snow Resort PV 2019-2020" (白馬八方尾根スキー場PV2019-2020), was released by "HakubaHappo-one." The Hakuba Happo One Snow Resort, with its magnificent natural setting, is very popular for its superb powder snow. If you're looking to enjoy winter sports in Japan, you should definitely check out Hakuba Happo One Snow Resort. A Closer Look at Hakuba Happo One Snow Resort Source :YouTube screenshot The Hakuba Happo One Snow Resort is an international mountain resort located in Hakuba, Nagano, in Japan's Koshinetsu Region, and is one of the largest single ski resorts in Japan. The Hakuba Happo One Snow Resort is also known for being the venue for the 1998 Winter Olympics in Nagano Prefecture. From the top of the mountain, on a clear day, you can enjoy a magnificent view of Mt. Myoko, Mt. Asama, and the Yatsugatake Mountains of Japan's Northern Alps. At 0:07 in the video, you can also see the mountains tinted with a beautiful morning glow. The ski resort is fully equipped with gondolas and lifts, and offers a comfortable skiing and snowboarding experience on its famously powdery snow. A Skiing Experience at Hakuba Happo One Snow Resort Source :YouTube screenshot Hakuba Happo One Snow Resort offers a variety of courses, including the Sakka Slope, Olympic Course I, and the Riesen Grat Course. Choose the slope that best suits your level and enjoy skiing or snowboarding to your hearts content. Beginners can also try their hand at skiing at the Evergreen International Ski School. Events at Hakuba Happo One Snow Resort Source :YouTube screenshot At Hakuba Happo One Snow Resort, you can look forward to not only snow-related activities but also events. In particular, the torch run introduced at 2:16 in the video is incredibly dynamic. On December 31, there's a Kagami-biraki ceremony, a taiko drum performance, a raffle, and a fireworks display. During winter in the Hakuba area they also celebrate "dondoyaki," a traditional festival that involves a massive bonfire to herald the new year in Japan. There are also parasailing and trekking tours that can be enjoyed in any season, which can be seen at 2:40 in the video. Summary of Hakuba Happo One Snow Resort Source :YouTube screenshot In this article we introduced the popular Hakuba Happo One Snow Resort that was the venue for the 1998 Winter Olympics in Nagano. When visiting Hakuba Happo One Ski Resort, we recommend booking a hotel, planning equipment rentals and lift ticket purchases, and researching transportation access and event information well in advance. There are also popular hot springs and restaurants around the ski resort, so be sure to check them out as well. 【Official Website】HAKUBA HAPPO ONE SNOW RESORT https://www.happo-one.jp/en/ 【Tripadvisor】HAKUBA HAPPO ONE SKI RESORT https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g1120615-d1424752-Reviews-Hakuba_Happoone_Ski_Resort-Hakuba_mura_Kitaazumi_gun_Nagano_Prefecture_Koshinets.html -
Video article 0:47
The Beautiful Ceiling Painting by Katsushika Hokusai, the World-Renowned Japanese Ukiyo-e Artist. The Powerful Dragon Painting, Which Seems Like It Will Come to Life at Any Moment, Is a Mesmerizing Masterpiece!
Art & Architecture Celebrities- 22 plays
- YouTube
This video, titled "[4K] A Festival Float With a Dynamic Ceiling Painting by Katsushika Hokusai|Obuse, Nagano|The Hokusai Museum|nippon.com" (【4K】葛飾北斎の天井絵が躍動する祭屋台:長野・小布施「北斎館」| nippon.com), was released by "nippon.com." Obuse, a popular tourist town in Nagano Prefecture, houses the Hokusai Museum, which exhibits paintings by Katsushika Hokusai. Katsushika Hokusai was an ukiyo-e artist from the Edo Period, and at the age of 83, he visited Obuse in Shinshu to work on a painting. At the Hokusai Museum in Obuse, a work called the "Matsuri Yatai" (festival float) is on display, which is said to be the only three-dimensional object created by Hokusai. The dynamic dragons and phoenixes on the festival float are a sight to behold. Be sure to visit the Hokusai Museum in Obuse to see the dynamic painting by Katsushika Hokusai. -
Video article 3:18
Hit the Slopes at Togari Onsen Snow Resort! Spectacular Scenery, Superb Hot Springs, and Snow Bikes in Japan's Shinshu Region!
Things to Do- 33 plays
- YouTube
Togari Onsen Snow Resort This video, titled "Togari Onsen Snow Resort Promotional Video" (戸狩温泉スキー場プロモーションムービー), was uploaded by "戸狩温泉スキー場 Togari Onsen Snow Resort." It is a major winter leisure park where anyone, from beginners to advanced skiers, children to seniors, can enjoy themselves while enjoying the spectacular view of the Chikuma River below from the slopes. The video shows skiers and snowboarders racing down the three major slopes, "Pegasus," "Orion," and "Tondaira." Snow Strider Park - Enjoy Snow Biking at Togari Onsen Snow Resort! Photo:Snow bicycle Togari Onsen Snow Resort has a special slope called "Snow Strider Park" for snow bikes, which has become a popular winter activity in recent years. It's a new activity where you ride a fat bike downhill on a special 800-meter-long slope. While appreciating the spectacular view from above, you can enjoy an exciting bike ride on the wave, bank, and tree run courses. You can see and awesome view the snow bikes racing down the slopes at 0:38 and 2:10 in the video. It's said that snow bikes originated from snowy countries. During the cold winter months, the surface of the snow becomes so hard that it's possible to walk freely across it. The snow bike was made to ride on the hardened snow surface, and the bike further evolved into the fat bike, which can be rode on even soft powdery snow. Fat bikes are also available for rental, and you can take a lift up to the top of the slope, making them easy to enjoy. Toga Park, the Highlight of Togari Onsen Snow Resort – Kickers, Banks, and Boxes! Photo:Snowboarding One of the highlights Togari Onsen Snow Resort is Toga Park, a permanent course with kickers, banks, waves, and boxes that have been specifically designed for beginners and intermediate skiers and snowboarders. It’s a full-scale banked course that is even used in international competitions! At any time during the season, you can experience a powerful run on the 3D course that takes advantage of the natural terrain. Togari Onsen Snow Resort also has a permanent snowboard school and ski school taught by former professional snowboarders and skiers. The school is open to beginners as well as intermediate and advanced skiers who want to improve their skills. Delicious Food and Relaxing Hot Springs at Toga Source :YouTube screenshot When it comes to food at ski resort restaurants in Japan, many people think of the ramen and curry shown at 1:40 in the video! But if you've come to the foothills of the Kanda Mountain Range, spanning from Nagano to Niigata, we recommend taking advantage of the natural hot spring water and delicious local cuisine. Togari Onsen Snow Resort has two open-air hot spring baths, "Akatsuki-no-yu" and "Nozomi-no-yu," both of which are 100% free-flowing hot springs. The quality of the spring water is slightly alkaline, which is good for the skin, and is effective at relieving fatigue, and fighting neuralgia, and joint pain, making them ideal for relaxing after an exhilarating day of skiing or snowboarding! Please note, however, that Nozomi-no-yu is only open during the ski season. You can see the hot springs from 2:28 in the video. Furthermore, both Niigata and Nagano prefectures are treasure troves of food! We recommend sampling the delicious local cuisine and resting up in the hot springs. There are also stylish café bars near the slopes and restaurants in the rest areas, with French toast being a popular menu item. The Extensive Facilities at Togari Onsen Snow Resort Togari Onsen Snow Resort is a ski resort with a wide variety of courses, as the slopes leading to the two hot spring towns are connected via Tondaira Slope above. The total length of the slopes is 2,500 meters, making it a long course to enjoy. The largest slope is the Pegasus Slope located at Akatsuki-no-yu, and the central Gohon-matsu, Mimizuku, and Imoha courses can be accessed via the "Beetle 4" (1,037m) high-speed lift. There is also a children's slope and a kids' park for children, so families with small children can enjoy skiing and snowboarding without worry. During the winter season you can enjoy events, such as Igloo Hotel, the Togari Snow and Light Festival, and fireworks. Summary of Togari Onsen Snow Resort Photo:JR Iiyama Station, Nagano Prefecture To get to Togari Onsen Snow Resort in Iiyama City in northern Nagano Prefecture, take the Hokuriku Shinkansen from Iiyama Station to Togari Nozawa Onsen Station via the local line. If you're driving your own car, it's about 25 minutes from the Toyota/Iiyama IC on the Joetsu Expressway. There is a free daytime parking lot inside the facility as well. Be sure check Togari Onsen Snow Resort's official website for information on snow accumulation via live camera, accommodations, night skiing, lift ticket sales, and slope maps. You can find reviews and tour information from people who have actually visited Togari Onsen Snow Resort on various review sites as well, so be sure to take a look at them as well. Enjoy exciting winter activities at Togari Onsen Snow Resort! 【Official Website】Togari Onsen Snow Resort, Nagano, Winter https://togari.jp/winter/en/ 【TripAdvisor】Togari Onsen Snow Resort https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g1021317-d3681098-Reviews-Togari_Onsen_Ski_Resort-Iiyama_Nagano_Prefecture_Koshinetsu_Chubu.html -
Video article 1:16
Norikura Kogen – This Video of Beautiful, Kaleidoscopic Autumn Colors at a Popular Sightseeing Spot in Nagano Prefecture Will Take Your Breath Away!
Nature Travel- 54 plays
- YouTube
Autumn Colors at Norikura Kogen: Video Introduction This video, titled "Autumn Colors in Japan|Autumn at Norikura Kogen" (日本の紅葉 Autumn Colors in Japan 乗鞍高原の秋), was uploaded by "beaphoto1. The video introduces the spiritual and ephemeral autumn scenery of Norikura Kogen (Norikura Highlands), a place visited by large numbers of people every year for its legendary autumnal colors. The beauty on display is such that you'll forget all about time for the entirety of the 1-minute video. We're sure that when you're done watching you'll be itching to visit Norikura Kogen! Where is Norikura Kogen? Basic Tips for Sightseers Photo:Autumn leaves at Norikura Kogen, Nagano Prefecture Located in Matsumoto, Nagano in Japan's Koshin'etsu region, and on the eastern side of the Northern Alps' southernmost area, the Norikura Kogen highlands are a popular sightseeing spot, and are lively in all seasons, with visitors making the trip for a variety of reasons. In the summer, you can escape the heat while camping or stay at one of the bed and breakfasts in the area. As summer gives way to fall, mountain climbing becomes a popular pastime, and in the winter, skiing and other winter sports can be enjoyed here. Also, the hot springs bursting forth from several locations in the area can be enjoyed no matter the season. Furthermore, if you're looking to get your fill of the great outdoors, no trip to Japan's Northern Alps would be complete without a visit to Norikura Kogen Holiday Village (休暇村乗鞍高原, Kyuka-mura Norikura Kogen). Situated 1600m above sea-level, it's perfect for stargazing and early morning walks, and there are even activities for enjoying nature with fellow travelers that anyone can participate in at their leisure. The views of the night sky here are truly unforgettable. Take your time and enjoy the boundless nature of Japan's Northern Alps at Norikura Kogen Holiday Village! When Is the Best Time to See the Autumn Foliage at Norikura Kogen? Photo:Ichinose Park, Norikura Kogen Autumn means autumn leaves, and the best time to see those at Norikura Kogen is from mid-late October. During this period, sightseers converge on the area for a glimpse of Norikura Kogen's autumn foliage. At one of the most famous spots, Ichinose Park (一の瀬園地, Ichinose-enchi), the reflection of Mt. Norikura (乗鞍岳, Norikura-dake) on the water's surface contrasts with the autumn leaves to create a spiritual atmosphere. [Video] 0:10 - Autumn Leaves and the Reflection of Mt. Norikura Even the more indoorsy people will find themselves enjoying hiking around Ichinose Park. Take a leisurely walk and admire the white birch forests, Zengoro Falls, Organ Bridge (オルガン橋, orugan-bashi) which spans the mountain stream, and the seasonal flowers that can be found in the area. The giant maple tree shown in the video is popular with photographers as a superb photo spot, so don't forget your camera! [Video] 0:31 - Giant Maple Tree Norikura Skyline/Echo Line aka Paradise in the Sky Photo:Norikura Skyline, Korikura Kogen You'll feel like you're coasting through the sky at Norikura Skyline/Echo Line. The word "Skyline" makes it sound like somewhere you'd go by car, but since this is a place to enjoy nature as well as gorgeous views while gliding through the sky, personal vehicles are prohibited in order to protect the environment and prevent traffic. If you're planning to visit by car, you'll need to switch to a bus at some point. For further details, check the Hida-Norikura Tourism Association's (飛騨乗鞍観光協会, Hida Norikura kanko kyokai) home page. Summary of Sightseeing at Norikura Kogen Norikura Kogen is brimming with fantastical views, including autumn leaves and giant maples, and has come to be known as a Paradise in the Sky. It's great for instagrammers and photographers alike, too. Why don't you add Norikura Highland to the candidate sites when you travel to Nagano? Norikura Kogen is also rife with facilities, including day-trip hot spring facilities, but there's so much to see and do that we encourage you to stay the night and take your time enjoying the superb views. So let go of some of that stress and charge your batteries with the help of Mother Nature. [TripAdvisor] Norikura Kogen https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g298118-d1372942-Reviews-Norikura_Kogen-Matsumoto_Nagano_Prefecture_Koshinetsu_Chubu.html -
Video article 2:40
Enjoy Skiing and Snowboarding at Kashimayari Snow Resort in Nagano Prefecture! Powdery Slopes and a Plethora of Facilities!
Things to Do- 21 plays
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Introducing Kashimayari Snow Resort in Nagano Prefecture This video, titled “鹿島槍スキー場公式PV HAKUBAVALLEY kashimayari snow resort” was uploaded by “KashimayariSV.” It’s the official video for Kashimayari Snow Resort! Hakuba, located in the Japanese Alps on the outskirts of Nagano City, is one of the most popular ski areas in Japan. Kashimayari Snow Resort shown in the video is located in the easily accessible Hakuba area, and from the slopes you can see Mt. Kashimayari, Mt. Jiigatake, and other mountains located in the Northern Alps of Japan. The ski resort is full of nature, with monkeys and Japanese serows also present in the area. The slopes have plenty of high-quality snow, dynamic courses, and a park with rails and banks for snowboarding. In addition, there are restaurants, outdoor baths, and lodging facilities at Kashimayari Snow Resort. A Closer Look at Kashimayari Snow Resort! Photo:Skiing Kashimayari Snow Resort is located on the Kashimayari Kurosawa Plateau in Omachi, Nagano, and offers more than 10 different courses. At 0:32 in the video, you can see the "Ippon Buna Downhill Course." Near the end of the course is the Nakatsuna Freestyle Park, a snowboard park. You can also enjoy a longer trail with the whopping 5,000-meter-long "Long Downhill Course." There is also the "Shimasaka Kids Park" for small children and a daycare center. Alpine Inn Kashimayari is introduced at 0:59 of the video. It has a restaurant where you can eat, "Gelespo," a store you can enjoy inside the ski resort, stores where you can buy local souvenirs, and an outdoor hot spring bath on the roof where you can relax and enjoy the view of the surrounding mountains. In addition, directly-managed accommodations are available, including reasonably priced dormitories and group rooms for those traveling in groups. There is also a special package deal that includes lodging at a nearby hotel and a lift ticket! Visit with your family and enjoy the luxury of a relaxing soak in the hot springs after skiing the snowy mountains. Sightseeing Information for Kashimayari Snow Resort Photo:Shinano-Omachi Station, Oito Line To get to Kashimayari Snow Resort, besides driving to the resort, you can also take a train to Shinano-Omachi Station on the Oito Line and take the free shuttle bus with no reservations required. There is also a free shuttle bus that runs from Matsumoto and Nagano if you purchase a lift ticket (reservation required). The lifts are generally open from 8:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., with night skiing also available. In addition, ski and snowboard rentals and lift tickets can be reserved online. Summary of Kashimayari Snow Resort This video introduced all the charms of Kashimayari Snow Resort in Nagano Prefecture. You might even run into Shimashika-kun, the local mascot, if you’re lucky! If you're considering visiting Kashimayari Snow Resort and want to see the facilities, slopes, etc. that it has to offer, be sure to check out the video! 【Official Website】Kashimayari Sports Village (Kashimayari Snow Resort) https://www.hakuba1.com/english/ski_resort/129 【TripAdvisor】Kashimayari Sports Village https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g1021316-d2638047-Reviews-Kashimayari_Sports_Village-Omachi_Nagano_Prefecture_Koshinetsu_Chubu.html -
Video article 3:01
Nozawa Onsen Ski Resort Video Introduction! Fun Courses for Kids, Day-Care, and All Sorts of Facilities! Enjoy Hot Springs and More at This Winter Wonderland in Nagano Prefecture With Your Family
Things to Do Sports Travel- 67 plays
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Nozawa Onsen Ski Resort in Japan's Shinshu Region: Video Introduction This video, titled "2020–21 Nozawa Onsen Ski Resort Promotion Video" (2020-21 野沢温泉スキー場プロモーションビデオ), was uploaded by "nozawaonsen." Blanketed in a veil of silvery white snow, Nozawa Onsen Ski Resort has something for the whole family, with a variety of courses, ranging from beginner to expert level. In addition to skiing and sledding, facilities include a kids' park and even a day-care center, so visitors with small children can enjoy the slopes too. Once you've had your fun on the powder, at Nozawa Onsen Ski Resort you can soothe your tired body in the thermal springs, or enjoy some delicious cuisine. Before we go any further, check out Nozawa Onsen Ski Resort's gorgeous snow-covered scenery and people enjoying winter activities in the video. Nozawa Onsen Ski Resort’s Distinctive Features, and Course Difficulty Photo:Nozawa Onsen Ski Resort, Nagano, Japan Nozawa Onsen Ski Resort is located in northern Nagano prefecture in Japan's Koshin'etsu region, and its slopes — which cover an area the size of 63 Tokyo Domes — set it apart from all other ski resorts. Twinkling prettily, trees decorated with icicles dot the landscape, which, with its 100% natural snow, boasts some of the best powder in Honshu (the main island of the Japanese archipelago) and there are plenty of gorgeous views to be seen as well. The vast slopes play host to a total of 36 runs, divided in a 40/30/30 ratio between beginner, intermediate, and expert difficulties respectively. The resort is popular amongst skiers and snowboarders of all levels, from novices to seasoned experts. What’s more is, there's the Nagasaka Gondola, a large gondola which can ferry 10 people from the Nagasaka area to the Yamabiko area in one go. These gondolas are the first in Japan to have an all-glass structure, which boasts excellent ventilation properties, and allows riders to take in the natural scenery as they travel from one point to the next. Plenty of Courses for Beginners and Families! Photo:Nozawa Onsen Ski Resort, Nagano, Japan Thanks to its abundance of runs and areas aimed at beginners and children, Nozawa Onsen Ski Resort is popular among visitors with no skiing experience and families with small children. There's even a rental shop, so there's no need to worry if you don't have your own equipment. The Uenotaira Course (上ノ平ゲレンデ, uenotaira gerende) and Paradise Course (パラダイスゲレンデ, paradaisu gerende) are recommended for beginners or kids who aren't yet familiar with skis or snowboards. These slopes are both gentle and wide, making them the perfect choice for those who want to enjoy the snow without worrying about having an accident. Furthermore, thanks to lower temperatures than those at the foot of the mountain, the quality of the snow is great. The lift adjacent to the slopes has a handrail and can take up to four people, meaning you can ride as a group; a boon for those with young children who may struggle with the lifts. Once you've had your fill of skiing about at the summit, you can leave the Paradise Course behind you and head for the Rinkan Course (林間コース, rinkan kosu). This course allows skiers to enjoy some spectacular views as they descend the mountain along a beautiful wooded trail. If you aren't confident in your skiing abilities, you can take the gondola to the bottom, so be sure to keep this in mind if you're new to skiing or snowboarding. The area at the foot of the mountain is also recommended for beginners and kids. There are wide and gentle slopes here too, ideal for kids who are experiencing skiing or snowboarding for the first time. Ziplines, Indoor Playgrounds and More! Check Out the Exciting Activities at Nozawa Onsen Ski Resort Photo:Zip Sky Ride at Nozawa Onsen Ski Resort, Nagano, Japan "Zip Sky Ride" is one of the most popular facilities at Nozawa Onsen Ski Resort. This zipline, comprising of a seated harness mounted on a wire rope using a pulley is located above the Hikage Course, and is 652 meters with a total altitude difference of 122 meters. The zipline can reach speeds of up to 70 km/h! This aerial activity lets visitors soar above the slopes like a bird. The ride is accessible to everyone elementary school age and up, so consider flying over the mountains with your kids! In addition, the Kids' Park and Nasky Room are great for those with kids who haven't started elementary school yet. The Kids' Park offers sledding, tubing, and more, and the Nasky Room (ナスキールーム) has educational toys, making these places great for both relaxing and playing. There's a day-care as well! "Yumin," has qualified childcare professionals present, meaning you can have peace of mind knowing your kids are in good hands while you enjoy skiing, snowboarding, and other winter activities on the slopes. How to Get the Best Deals at Nozawa Onsen Ski Resort! Photo:Friends chatting with smartphones Buying one of the special package tickets from Nozawa Onsen Ski Resort's home page will allow you to save a little money. Priced at ¥6,500 for adults and ¥4,300 for kids, the special package tickets include a gondola ticket, which would usually sell for ¥6,000, or ¥3,600 per child, as well as ¥1,000 worth of lunch tickets. Furthermore, a package that includes a 1-day lift ticket, a ¥1,000 lunch ticket, and a Nozawa Onsen Sparena bath ticket is also available for ¥7,000 for adults and ¥4,600 for children. These perks are also available to those visiting one a day trip, so save yourself some money while enjoying Nozawa Onsen Ski Resort. Additionally, there are a variety of seasonal value passes available to skiers, including a spring skiing service pass, and family-oriented passes, such as the spring break family pack campaign, etc. Enjoy a trip to Nozawa Onsen Ski Resort next spring with your little ones and make some unforgettable memories! Check out Nozawa Onsen Ski Resort's homepage for more details. Nozawa Onsen Ski Resort Roundup: A Ski Resort Recommended for Families and Kids The beautiful slopes covered in powdery snow offer tons of photogenic views that would look great on Instagram. There are a variety of courses tailored for both children and adults, and the views are fantastic. The area surrounding Nozawa Onsen Ski Resort has a wide range of hotels, inns, and ryokan (traditional Japanese style inns) as well. A shuttle bus runs between the spa town and the ski resort, so guests can unwind with a dip in the hot springs and some delicious food after a fun-filled day of skiing. We implore you to head to Nagano Prefecture in Japan's Shinshu region and enjoy the beautiful surroundings and memorable winter activities! 【Official Website】Nozawa Onsen Ski Resort 【TripAdvisor】Nozawa Onsen Ski Resort -
Video article 2:15
Virgin Forests and Autumn Leaves at Shirakoma Pond, Nagano
Nature Travel- 83 plays
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Autumn Leaves at Shirakoma Pond, Nagano, Japan: Video Introduction Photo:Autumn leaves at Shirakoma Pond, Nagano Prefecture This video, titled "[4K] Mysteriously Spectacular Views|Autumn Leaves at Shirakoma Pond - (shot on BMPCC6K)" ([4K] 神秘の絶景 天空の湖 白駒池の紅葉 - Autumn Leaves at Shirakoma Pond - (shot on BMPCC6K)), was uploaded by "AQUA Geo Graphic." Shirakoma Pond in Nagano Prefecture is known for its beautiful autumn foliage. The reflection of the colorful trees on the surface of the lake is so beautiful you'd only expect to see it in a painting. Shirakoma Pond is blessed with abundant nature, and is a popular location for hiking as well. The pond is a popular tourist spot that attracts many visitors throughout the year because of its wonderful scenery that changes with the seasons, especially during autumn. Enjoy the beautiful contrast of between the green, yellow, and fiery red autumn leaves reflected on the mirror-like surface of the lake in this 2-minute long 4K video. Where is Shirakoma Pond? Location of the Pond in Nagano Famous for Its Autumn Leaves Photo:Shirakoma Pond from Takami-ishi, Nagano Prefecture Shirakoma Pond is located in the eastern part of Nagano Prefecture, on the border between the towns of Koumi and Sakuho. Located on the Yachiho Highland (Yachiho Kogen) at an elevation of 2,115m (~6,900 ft), Shirakoma Pond is the highest and largest natural lake in Japan. The pond is also known for its extremely high transparency, allowing visitors to see as deep as 5.8 meters below the surface. Shirakoma Pond is easily accessible despite its location on the Yachiho Highland. With a well-maintained promenade, it's becoming a popular tourist attraction. When to See Autumn Leaves at Shirakoma Pond – Best Season and Photo Spots Photo:Autumn leaves at Shirakoma Pond, Nagano Prefecture The area surrounding Shirakoma Pond is known as one of Japan's three largest virgin forests, and during autumn, when the leaves change color, the virgin forest, filled with azaleas, birch trees, and maples, changes color to brilliant shades of red and yellow. Every year, the area is crowded with tourists who come to view the autumn foliage. If you're planning to visit Shirakoma Pond, autumn is definitely the best season to come so you can see the beauty of the autumn leaves. In the high elevation areas of Japan's Chubu region, the best time to view the autumn leaves is from late September at the earliest, and from early October on an average year. Since the forecast for autumn leaves at elevations above 2,000m is said to be largely unchanged, the best time to view the autumn foliage at Shirakoma Pond in 2023 is expected to be from late September to mid-October. During autumn, when the leaves are in season, Shirakoma Pond is crowded tourists. If you're looking to take photos, there are two great spots in front of the mountain lodges "Shirakoma-so" (白駒荘) and "Seitai-so" (青苔荘) that overlook the lakeside area. The two lodges, situated on opposite sides of Shirakoma Pond, are well known for their sunrises and sunsets which can be photographed together with the pond in the foreground. Hiking at Shirakoma Pond! Photo:The moss forest around Shirakoma Pond, Nagano Prefecture There are several hiking trails around Shirakoma Pond that can be enjoyed even by beginner hikers. We recommend the route from Shirakoma Pond (白駒池) to Takami-ishi (高見石), which has a minimal elevation change and can be easily hiked. The hike takes about 2 hours and departs from the Shirakoma Pond parking lot. The hike proceeds along a trail on which hikers can admire the beautiful mosses growing in the area. Once you reach a fork in the road, head toward Takami-ishi Lodge (高見石小屋). After hiking up behind Takami-ishi Lodge, you'll arrive at Takami-ishi. From Takami-ishi, you can enjoy a spectacular view of Japan's Northern and Central Alps and Shirakoma Pond. After admiring the view, descend from Takami-ishi toward Shirakoma Pond. Follow the boardwalk circling the mystical Shirakoma Pond before returning to the parking lot to end the hike. Although the trail around Shirakoma Pond is well maintained, it becomes slippery when it rains. When visiting Takami-ishi, a series of rock formations, in particular, extreme care should be taken to avoid injury or accidents. Please be prepared to wear comfortable walking shoes and clothes that are easy to move in, and check the weather before you go out. Additionally, because the area around Shirakoma Pond is mountainous, temperatures can vary greatly. Please bring warm clothes to adjust for the temperature changes. After enjoying hiking in the magnificent nature of Nagano, we recommend taking a breather at one of the hot spring resorts in the area. The Shirakoma Pond area is dotted with facilities where you can enjoy hot springs and take in the beautiful scenery. It's a great way to relax after a nice day of hiking. Camping at Shirakoma Pond Photo:The tent campsite at Takami-ishi Lodge, Nagano Prefecture In addition to hiking and viewing the autumn leaves at Shirakoma Pond, there are also a few locations where you can enjoy camping. Seitai-so Seitai-so, the mountain lodge mentioned earlier, has a tent site located right next to it where you can set up a tent right by the lake. The tent site is available year-round and you can even enjoy a beautiful starry sky with a view of the pond frozen over in the winter. Keep in mind that the tent site is reservation only and all garbage must be taken with you when you leave. Lodge Hours: 7:00 am - 7:00 pm. ※Hours may vary by season. Fee: The tent site is free of charge. General lodging starts at 5,500 yen/person for adults. Takami-ishi Another campsite is the Takami-ishi Tent Site, located beside Takami-ishi Lodge. Unlike the tent site at Seitai-so, Takami-ishi does not accept reservations, and is open to campers on a first-come, first-served basis. Additionally, the owners of the lodge provide commentary about the stars at night on the terrace, and invite guests to join them to listen. While not located directly next to Shirakoma Pond, it's only about 10 minutes from the pond by car. Lodge Hours: 10:00 am - 2:00 pm Fee: Tent site: 600 yen/person. General lodging starts at 5,500 yen/ person. Both of the above facilities also having standard accommodations as well, so if you want to stay the night and enjoy the starry skies and autumn leaves, but don't want to stay in a tent, you can always book a room in the lodges. Parking and Crowding at Shirakoma Pond During the Autumn Foliage Season Photo:Autumn leaves at Shirakoma Pond, Nagano Prefecture To get to Shirakoma Pond, it's best to use the parking lot on Route 299. It takes about 15 minutes to reach the pond on foot from the parking lot. That being said, because it's a famous spot for viewing the autumn leaves, more than 180,000 people visit Shirakoma Pond during the autumn foliage season, and the parking lot becomes incredibly crowded, especially on weekends. At the same time, many cars are entering and exiting the parking lot, resulting in heavy traffic congestion on the surrounding roads. The most crowded hours at Shirakoma Pond are between 10:00 am to 2:00 pm on weekdays, and 9:00 am to 2:00 pm on weekends and holidays. If you visit Shirakoma Pond to see the autumn leaves on a weekday, it may be better to go between 6:00 am and 9:00 am. On weekends and holidays, it might be smoother to go between 6:00 am and 8:00 am. However, in the past, there have been some reports that the parking lots were full as early as 9:00 am, so be sure to check the real-time parking conditions when visiting. For real-time information on congestion around Shirakoma Pond, you'll have the most luck using Twitter. Look up "白駒池" (Shirakoma Pond) in the Twitter search box to check the latest tweets. It's also recommended that you check live cameras installed at the Shirakoma Pond parking lot. Access the official website of the Shirakoma Pond toll parking lot to view the live camera, which is updated every 5 minutes. This is useful for checking the status of the parking lot and the weather in real time. Although it is convenient to drive to Shirakoma Pond during the fall foliage season, you may want to consider using public transportation if you're trying to avoid crowds and traffic jams. Summary of Autumn Leaves at Shirakoma Pond Photo:Autumn leaves at Shirakoma Pond, Nagano Prefecture Shirakoma Pond, located in Nagano Prefecture and famous for its autumn foliage, is the highest natural lake in Japan at 2,115 meters above sea level. During the fall foliage season, the azaleas and birch trees change color beautifully, creating a picturesque landscape. The Shirakoma Pond area is also famous for its "moss forest," which is home to 485 species of moss. The best time to see the mosses is from mid-June to the end of July, after Japan's rainy season, and visitors can enjoy the moss forest until early November every year. We invite you to experience the mysterious beauty of Shirakoma Pond as expressed in the video. 【TripAdvisor】Shirakoma Pond -
Video article 1:12
Karuizawa Umbrella Sky – A Unique Art Installation at a Shopping Area Surrounded by Greenery in Nagano, Japan
Travel Shopping Art & Architecture- 34 plays
- YouTube
Karuizawa Umbrella Sky at Harunire Terrace: Video Introduction This video, titled "Hoshino area of Karuizawa | Karuizawa Umbrella Sky 2019"(軽井沢星野エリア|軽井沢アンブレラスカイ2019), was uploaded by "Hoshino Resorts." This video shows the 2019 Karuizawa Umbrella Sky event, held every year during Japan's rainy season at Harunire Terrace in the Hoshino area of Karuizawa. The view of colorful umbrellas floating above the wooden deck connecting the different buildings in the area makes it a popular spot for Japanese Instagrammers. From June to early July, you can see many photos of the event on Instagram. This article provides easy-to-understand information about popular events. Be sure to check out the photogenic event in the video. What is Karuizawa Umbrella Sky? Photo:Karuizawa Umbrella Sky, Harunire Terrace Karuizawa Umbrella Sky is an event held in the Hoshino area of Karuizawa, operated by Hoshino Resorts in Karuizawa, Nagano, in Japan's Koshin'etsu region. 2023 will mark the 8th year the event is held. Here, we'll take a look at some things to see during the event. ●Umbrella Arcade The main attraction of the event is the "Umbrella Arcade" which features more than 100 colorful umbrellas floating above the deck of Harunire Terrace. Soap bubbles can be seen floating through the air three times a day, creating an exciting atmosphere for people of all ages. "Rainy Art," a pattern that appears on the wooden deck only on rainy days, and the reflection of umbrellas on the wet wooden deck are two more must-see attractions. [Video] 0:38 - Umbrellas Reflected on the Rainy Wooden Deck ●Bubbles and Umbrella Making Workshops (Held on Weekends) At the plaza next to "Hoshino Onsen Tombo no Yu" (Hoshino Onsen), bubble blowing workshops and umbrella making workshops are held for children to have fun with their parents. ●Exclusive Seasonal Beverages to Go With Japan's Rainy Season Drinks inspired by the colorful Karuizawa Umbrella Sky are also sold during the event. The Rainbow-colored Lemonade, a limited-quantity drink from Café Hungry Spot, is filled with colorful jelly and is the perfect drink for the event. Consider purchasing one and snapping some photos of the colorful drink with the lush greenery in the surrounding area. Karuizawa Umbrella Sky 2023: Event Schedule & Hours The 2023 Karuizawa Umbrella Sky event schedule is as follows: Event Period: June 2 - July 9 Hours: 8:00 pm - 10:00 pm Illumination Hours: 6:00 pm - 10:00 pm Bubbles: 10:00 am, 4:00 pm, 8:00 pm The event will be held at Harunire Terrace, a facility with a variety of restaurants and lifestyle stores in the Hoshino area of Karuizawa. The event is a great way to beat the blues brought on by Japan's rainy season, so definitely consider checking it out. Things to Do at Harunire Terrace at Karuizawa Hoshino Resorts Photo:Karuizawa Umbrella Sky at night Harunire Terrace was named after the more than 100 Harunire (Japanese elm) trees that used to grow in the area. There are restaurants, cafes, sweets, and lifestyle & relaxation stores, all connected via a wooden deck. You can see a video of Harunire Terrace after the sun sets in the video. [Video] 0:47 - Harunire Terrace at Night You can enjoy shopping or even just window shopping at the various shops in the area, all the while enjoying Karuizawa Umbrella Sky, or just relax and enjoy a meal or tea time at a café. Pets are welcome on the terrace as well, so it's not uncommon to see people with their dogs. Before visiting Harunire Terrace, we recommend checking to see if there are any events being held in the area when you're planning on visiting. Harunire Terrace hosts the Umbrella Sky during the rainy season in Japan (early June to mid-July), illuminations around Christmas, and Halloween-related events in autumn. In addition, there are many trendy shops and specialty stores to browse, so you might consider making a list of the shops you want to take a look at before visiting if you have limited time. Restaurants, Cafes, and Souvenir Shops at Harunire Terrace Photo:Chairs at Harunire Terrace, Karuizawa Harunire Terrace features 16 restaurants, cafes, and other eateries, as well as furniture and even souvenir shops. Sawamura is a bakery/restaurant that is popular on Japanese social media. They offer takeout, but many people sit in for lunch. The pasta lunch comes with delicious bread, and the juicy hamburgers are to die for! After grabbing some lunch, you can relax on the terrace and enjoy a delicious cup of coffee from Maruyama Coffee. There's also a bookstore attached to the restaurant, so you can relax while reading. Kawakamian is known for its delicious soba noodles as well as shrimp tempura, etc. If you visit the restaurant in the evening, consider indulging in some delicious sake with various dishes, such as grilled duck and their tasty pork tatsuta-age (a marinated, fried pork dish). MORIASOBI is a shop that sells furniture and sundries, but it also serves meals and is open for tea time. We recommend trying the hot chocolate here, a popular drink on Japanese Instagram, which is made with foamed milk and melted chocolate. Izumiya (和泉屋) is a great shop for souvenirs and is popular for its delicious Japanese- and Western-style confections. The cheesecake, called "Hanjuku Cake," has an irresistible soufflé-like texture. The shop also offers a lineup of cute products for sale. Other Things to Do in Karuizawa Here are a few places to check out in the Karuizawa area: Karuizawa Shiraito Falls From Nakakaruizawa Station, the closest station to Harunire Terrace, you can take a train to Karuizawa Station. From there, there are regularly schedules buses that will take you to the Shiraito no Taki Bus Stop (白糸の滝). It's an approximately 25-minute bus ride to the base of the trail, and then a 5-10-minute hike to the waterfall itself. Hours: Open 24 hours. ※Shops at the base of the trail: 9:00 am - 4:00 pm (Some shops may be closed in the case of inclement weather) Admission Fee: Free Karuizawa Prince Shopping Plaza An outlet mall at Karuizawa Station with a number of shops, cafes, and restaurants selling everything from brand-name goods like Prada to snowboarding gear, such as Burton. The plaza features a large pond at its center making it feel like a Japanese strolling pond garden. Hours: 10:00 am - 7:00 pm Admission Fee: 720 yen (bus fee) Tombo no Yu Located just up the road from Harunire Terrace, Tombo no Yu (Tonbo no Yu) is a hot spring that opened in 1915. It's a great place to relax after a long day of sightseeing. Be aware that there can be long lines to enter during holidays, such as Golden Week. Hours: 10:00 am - 10:00 pm Admission Fee: Adults: 1,350 yen, Children (Ages 3 - Elementary school students): 800 yen Additionally, if you're looking to get some exercise and enjoy the weather on a sunny day, you can rent a bike from a bike rental shop and ride around the Karuizawa area exploring the scenery, visiting shops, etc. The bike rental shops in the area have guidebooks with biking routes of various lengths to help you navigate the area according to your schedule as well. Keep in mind that the bikes can be fully rented out during holiday seasons, so it's a good idea to make a reservation in advance. A Brief Introduction to Karuizawa Karuizawa, located in the mountains of south-eastern Nagano, inside Joshin'etsu Kogen National Park, sits at an elevation of 850 to 1,000 meters above sea level and is a popular summer resort in Japan. Karuizawa has long been popular as a vacation home for many famous and wealthy people because of its easy accessibility (approximately 1 hour from central Tokyo). Summary of Karuizawa Harunire Terrace, Umbrella Sky The Hoshino area of Karuizawa also offers accommodations and hot springs, so you can enjoy the upscale Karuizawa lifestyle in a relaxing setting surrounded by nature. Japan's rainy season has a tendency to make people feel gloomy, but Karuizawa's Harunire Terrace will welcome you with colorful umbrellas, lush greenery, and flowers. If you're feeling down this rainy season, consider visiting Harunire Terrace to cheer yourself up. You're sure to feel refreshed! [Official website] Harunire Terrace - The Hoshino Area of Karuizawa [TripAdvisor] Harunire Terrace -
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Ofune Matsuri – A Unique Festival in Nagano, Japan!
Festivals & Events Traditional Culture- 43 plays
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Ofune Matsuri, Hotaka Shrine: Video Introduction Source :YouTube screenshot This video, titled "Hotaka Shrine, Ofune Matsuri" (穂高神社御船祭り), was uploaded by "Azumino TV" (あづみ野テレビ). Ofune Matsuri (festival) is held at Hotaka Shrine in Azumino, Nagano, in Japan's Koshin'etsu Region. The video shows how the entire community, from children to adults, work together during Ofune Matsuri. The massive floats crashing into one another is quite the contrast to the cute shrine maidens dancing at the beginning of the video! Be sure to check out the video to see what the festival is like before reading along! Ofune Matsuri, a Historic Festival Dating Back 1,500 Years Source :YouTube screenshot Ofune Matsuri, designated as an Intangible Folk Cultural Property of Nagano Prefecture, is a festival held annually from September 26 to September 27 at Hotaka Shrine in Azumino, Nagano. The origin of Ofune Matsuri dates back to the 6th century A.D. The festival celebrates the history of the migration and settlement of the Azumi people, the ancestors of both the seafaring tribes of Kyushu and the people living in present-day Azumino City. It's also said to be an event to mourn the death of Azumi no Hirafu, who is said to have died as a general in the Battle of Baekgang. A total of five floats are used during the festival, including six-meter-tall adult boats and slightly smaller children's boats. The floats are shaped like ships in reference to the migration of the seafaring people, and the floats are decorated with handmade Hotaka dolls depicting various aspects of history. [Video] 0:01 - Hotaka Dolls The floats carrying the Hotaka dolls, which have been passed down by the people of Azumino, are pulled through each town and then converge at Hotaka Shrine. The crowd goes wild as the two "adult" floats, clash violently with each other to the accompaniment of music performed by children from the community, making this one of the highlights of Ofune Matsuri. [Video] 0:37 - A Clash of Floats to the Sound of Music Deities and Other Information For Hotaka Shrine Photo:Hotaka Shrine, Azumino, Nagano The deities enshrined at Hotaka Shrine are Watatsumi no Mikoto, the god of the sea; Hotakami no Mikoto, the ancestor of the Azumi people and son of Watatsumi no Mikoto; and Ninigi no Mikoto, the grandson of Amaterasu no Mikoto. The shrine is dedicated to several dignified deities and is believed to bring good fortune, business prosperity, traffic safety, success in academic studies, and marital bliss, and many good luck charms can be purchased at the shrine. Also, on the grounds of Hotaka Shrine is the largest stainless steel Dosojin (guardian deity of travelers) of health and longevity in Japan, which was constructed in 2013 to commemorate Nagano Prefecture's recognition as the prefecture with the longest life expectancy in Japan and is said to bring blessings of health and longevity and good luck in marriage. Shuin stamps are available at the main shrine of Hotaka Shrine from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. daily. In addition, limited edition shuin stamps are distributed during New Year holidays, the Bokusho Festival, and the annual festival, so if you're collector, consider visiting the shrine during these times. If you visit the Mine-miya (shrine located on a peak), you can also receive a special shuin stamp. Tsukimairi is an occasion to express gratitude for a successful month and pray for blessings in the new month. The tsukimairi shuin stamp with beautiful seasonal designs of Hotaka Shrine changes its design each month. Seeing the different stamp designs will make you want to visit to collect them all! Explore Hotaka Shrine at Myojin Pond – A Power Spot Surrounded by Nature Photo:The inner shrine of Hotaka Shrine, Azumino, Nagano The inner shrine of Hotaka Shrine is located at the foot of Mt. Myojin, an hour's walk from Kappa Bridge (Kappabashi Bridge) at Kamikochi. An inner shrine, "okumiya" in Japanese, is a shrine located at the top or middle of a mountain when a particular shrine has several smaller shrines. Myojin Pond near the shrine is said to be a sacred place where prayers for rain have been held since ancient times. On October 8 each year, a festival is held to pray for the safety of hikers and to express gratitude to the mountains by taking two boats around Myojin Pond. Myojin Pond does not freeze over in the winter due to springs and underground water. It is also called "Kagami-ike" (mirror pond) because of this, and its calm surface reflects the natural beauty of the area throughout the year. There is a 300 yen entrance fee to visit Myojin Pond. A Bamboo Lantern Festival, Wind Chime Festival, and Other Events at Hotaka Shrine Photo:The bamboo lantern festival at Hotaka Shrine, Azumino, Nagano In addition to Ofune Matsuri, Hotaka Shrine also hosts a variety of other seasonal events. Every year on a weekend in December, a lantern festival called "Kamiakari" is held for several weeks at night. Approximately 10,000 bamboo lanterns are lined up, creating a mysterious atmosphere in the shrine grounds. If you come with a candle lighter (utility lighter) by the designated time, you may be able to participate in the lighting ceremony. Azumino, Nagano is known as a summer resort in Japan. Every year in July and August, a wind chime festival is held at Hotaka Shrine. Wind chimes of various shapes and colors are decorated with strips of paper with wishes attached to them, and the cool sounds of the wind chimes are played under the eaves of the Kagura Hall (Shinto music and dancing hall) in front of the main shrine building. This Origin of Festivals in Japan Photo:People carrying a portable shrine at a festival The Japanese word "matsuri" (祭り), meaning "festival," comes from the word "matsuru" (祀る), which means "to give thanks to the gods." Festivals in Japan can be traced back to Japanese creation myths and Shinto gods, such as Amaterasu, the sun goddess. During the Heian Period (794-1185 AD), portable shrines became common in festivals, which allowed the gods to leave from the shrines and go into town where the people were. Today, there are many festivals throughout the year in Japan, including summer festivals full of fireworks and more. Things to Do Near Hotaka Shrine Photo:Matsumoto Castle, Matsumoto, Nagano Hotaka Shrine is located just 30 minutes north of Matsumoto by train. There are a number of things to see and do in Matsumoto, so below we'll list a few. Matsumoto Castle Matsumoto Castle is one of the 12 castles in Japan with an original castle keep. It's one of the most beautiful castles in Japan and has a striking appearance with black walls and roof tiles and is surrounded by a moat filled with koi. The inside of the castle is filled with guns and armor that would have been used by samurai during battles, and visitors can enjoy climbing the steep staircases, while looking out the loopholes for guns and arrows. Upon reaching the top of the castle, you can enjoy a panoramic view of the city of Matsumoto. Hours: 8:30 am - 5:00 pm (last entry 4:30 pm) Closed: Year-end holidays (December 29-31) Admission Fee: Adults: 700 yen, elementary and junior high school students: 300 yen ※Discounts are available for groups of 20 or more. Japan Ukiyo-e Museum The Japan Ukiyo-e Museum in Matsumoto was established to collect, manage, and study ukiyo-e (Japanese woodblock prints). If you're interested in Japanese art, the museum has a fine collection of pieces to explore. Hours: 10:00 am - 5:00 pm Closed: Mondays and year-end/New Years holidays ※If Monday is a holiday, the museum will be closed the following Tuesday Admission Fee: Adults: 1,000 yen, junior high/high school/university students: 500 yen, elementary school students and younger: free Kamikochi Kamikochi is a highland valley in Chubu Sangaku National Park that is home to some of the most breathtaking scenery in Japan. The Kamikochi area is surrounded by mountains and through it runs beautiful streams. There's also an abundance of wildlife in the lush forests in the area, and visitors can even see monkeys near the famous Kappa Bridge. The area is great for enjoying some light hiking and fresh air. To get to Kamikochi, it's recommended that you reserve a bus in advance, as it can often be crowded. Summary of Festivals at Hotaka Shrine Photo:Myojin Pond at the inner shrine of Hotaka Shrine, Azumino, Nagano The traditional culture inherited by the people of Azumino has a history and background that's so old that it's hard to imagine that it comes from Nagano Prefecture, which does not face the sea. In the video you can see the floats decorated with Hotaka dolls crashing into one another! if you decide to visit the festival, don't forget to take photos! Hotaka Shrine and Myojin Pond are easily accessible as well, so be sure to stop by when you come to see Ofune Matsuri, or visit the area on a trip. 【Official Website】Hotaka Shrine 【TripAdvisor】