Tourist Information for the Winter Months in Tsubetsu, Hokkaido The tourism promotional video produced by the Tsubetsu's tourism board, "Welcome to Winter in Tsubetsu!"（いらっしゃい津別！冬（津別町観光ＰＲビデオ)), captures the beauty of the wild winter wonderland at its best. Tsubetsu is adjacent to Akan Mashu National Park located in the east inland of Hokkaido prefecture. Tsubetsu Outlook is a popular viewpoint overlooking Kussharo Lake during the summer months, but the road leading to the outlook is closed in winter. However, there are some unique attractions in Tsubetsu during the winter. Displayed in the video is a fantastic snow-covered world of minus 20 degree weather with frost-covered trees and wild animals - The harsh beauty of the Wild North. How to Enjoy Tsubetsu's Magnificent Winter Wonderland Source :YouTube screenshot Tshubetsu is an hour drive from Memanbetsu Airport in Abashiri, and the city has no local train. About 80% of its total municipal area is covered by forest, surrounding tourists with the vast landscape as soon as they arrive. You may be wondering if there's anything to see there other than the silvery white plains during the bitter winter, but that same landscape is what makes the visit so worth your time! The trees in the forest are covered with ice, and when the weather is nice they sparkle, creating a fantastic scene of glittering lights. Popular winter activities in Tsubetsu include ice skating at the Tsubetsu Elementary School grounds or smelt fishing at Chimikeppu Lake. You can see smelt fishing at 1:30 in the video. Catching and cooking your very own smelt is a great way to enjoy the cold weather. The subtitle that appears at 1:42 says how "The mountain has become an amusement park," and that's exactly what we see! This amusement park offers a wide range of enjoyable experiences, such as eating fresh snow with condensed milk poured on it. Dining in Tsubetsu Source :YouTube screenshot After spending some time in the magnificent snowscape, viewers are taken to Michi no Eki Aioi (Roadside Station Aioi) that sells healthy snacks using local vegetables. This can be seen at 2:02 in the video. We recommend Kumayaki; it's a snack you can't find anywhere else. Kumayaki is a type of Japanese confection with bear-shaped patties (Kuma means bear in Japanese) and a sweet red bean filling using local flour and locally grown adzuki beans. There are four types of bear-shaped dorayaki (similar to Kumayaki) made of Hokkaido wheat and azuki beans, which are popular in Japan. Local gourmet delicacies such as Tsubetsu Wagyu steak, a brand of beef from Tsubetsu, Hokkaido, which is said to be a rare Japanese wagyu beef, and extra-large kakiage soba noodles made with local vegetables are also worth trying. And there is of course the renowned local dish of Hokkaido, Genghis Khan (a Japanese BBQ mutton dish), which is served at some restaurants in Tsubetsu. Tourist Information for Tsubetsu Source :YouTube screenshot Lamp no Yado Mori Tsubetsu Hotel is a hotel that features an outdoor hot spring bath where you can enjoy a beautiful view of the snow. In summer, tourists come from all over Japan to tour the spectacular sea of clouds from Tsubetsu Pass to Lake Kussharo. "Non-no no Mori Nature Center" is a rare park in Japan that has been scientifically recognized as a "forest therapy base" for its healing properties. The forest therapy guided tour or a walk on the hiking trail through the snow-covered forest will help you get reacquainted with nature. Summary of Tsubetsu, Hokkaido The natural beauty of Tsubetsu instills wanderlust in those who see it. You get a sense that even in this harsh winter wonderland you can enjoy a fantastic experience in the great outdoors. The harshness is exactly what makes it so beautiful. Many festivals and events are lined up in Tsubetsu all throughout the year, such as the ceremony to open the Tsubetsu pass, the "Primrose Festival," "Tsubetsu Summer Festival," the "Tsubetsu Tanabata Festival" in July, the "Bon Dance Festival" in mid-August, and the "Tsubetsu Local Festival." We recommended visiting Tsubetsu to see the events. The detailed information of events and festivals is published on the city's official website. The specialties of Tsubetsu include the traditional wooden crafts and Japanese black beef "Ryu-sui Gyu," which make great souvenirs. I bet this video already has you packing your bags, doesn't it? 【Official Website】Tsubetsu Tourism Association http://www.tsubetsu.net/english/index.html

Introducing the Wild Brown Bears of Hokkaido This video, titled “Encountering Wild Brown Bears that are Catching Salmon @ Shiretoko Hokkaido 20131010（野生のヒグマと遭遇 サケを捕食＠北海道 知床 20131010）” films two wild brown bears catching salmon that were swimming in the river. A brown bear is terrestrial mammal of the Ursidae family and their size is about the same as polar bears. Sub-species of foreign brown bears include Kodiak bears, Grizzly bears and Himalayan bears. The main sub-spices of brown bears which inhabit Hokkaido are called Ezo brown bears. This video is of wild Ezo brown bears catching salmon at the river, and it is a very rare sight. We hope you enjoy their fishing skills! What Kind of Animal Is the Ezo Brown Bear? Photo：Ezo brown bear One of the most well-known bears in Japan is the Asian black bear. These black bears actually inhabit the main island of japan. Ezo brown bears, on the other hand, inhabit forests in Hokkaido where the climate is generally colder. Ussuri brown bears are another bear that is a subspecies of brown bears. The Ussuri brown bear is also known as the Ezo brown bear. The size differs depending on the gender, with male bears being about 1.9 to 2.3 meters tall and weighing 120 kg to 250 kg. Female bears are about 1.6 to 1.8 meters tall, and are actually heavier than than males, weighing between 150 to 160 kg. Some of them are gigantic, weighing in at 450 kg. The Ezo brown bears inhabiting Japan are the largest kind of terrestrial animal in Japan. The number of Ezo brown bears is around 2,244 to 6,476 (as of 2013). The bears are known as omnivorous, and they like to eat fish, meat, and plants as well. The life span of a wild Ezo brown bear is about 30 years. They tend to live longer than different mammals. Highlights of Ezo Brown Bears Source :YouTube screenshot The video shows the viewers two Ezo brown bears hunting salmon at a river. It was filmed in October when the bears were getting ready for hibernation. From 4:21 in the video, we can see bears using both of their paws to catch salmon. At 0:18, one bear carries a salmon to the side of the river. At 4:54, the bears bring salmon ashore and comfortably enjoy their meals in peace. You'll be surprised by what happens at the end. Be sure to watch the full video so you don't miss out! The bears were so focused on their hunting that they didn't show any fear of the people filming them. Its incredibly rare that we see footage of Hokkaido's wild brown bears hunting. Be Aware of Wild Bears When Traveling to Hokkaido! Photo： Beware of Bears In Hokkaido, A study has been conducted to work on how to handle wild Ezo brown bears and ways of coexisting with them. There are several cases of humans being attacked by wild bears in Hokkaido. If you visit Hokkaido, please be aware that there are wild bears and research the areas in advance. Before your travels, please make sure that there are no wild bear alerts in the area you are traveling to. In order to keep bears away, have bells or turn on a radio to show them that humans are around. If you do encounter a wild bear, just think that bears are also afraid of humans. Screaming makes the bear scared, and it will enter into a defensive mode, and might try to attack you. Avoid running away from bears because bears tend to chase what’s running away from them. They can run up to 60km/h so the chance that they will catch you is extremely high . Instead of running away or screaming, try standing up on top of a rock or a log to make you look bigger and be intimidating. The most effective way to keep the bears away is to use a bear spray. Some people think bears are cute animals, and while this may be true, they are also dangerous as well. Please keep this in mind. Summary of Hokkaido's Wild Brown Bears If you are interested in learning more about brown bears, please visit a zoo, such as the Noboribetsu bear park, or the Showa Shinzan bear ranch. “Higuma Doughnuts” is a cafe in Meguro, Tokyo which uses selected ingredients from Hokkaido where brown bears live. If you visit Hokkaido, please visit a gift store to purchase some Hokkaido souvenirs. Be sure to check out the Ezo brown bears, the video is too adorable to miss!

An Introduction to Ezo Pikas! This is a video on the ecology of Ezo Pikas, an endangered species in Hokkaido. The video, titled “Keep it up! Ezo Pika - He can do his best. Pika" (頑張れ！エゾナキウサギ　He can do his best. Pika), is produced by “Shinji Kawamura”. The ezo pika, a subspecies of the northern pika, is a small mammal of the ochotonidae family, and its identifying characteristic is its high pitched cry. In Japan, they only live in high lands like Daisetsu Mountain, Yubari Mountain, and Hidaka Mountain in Hokkaido. Their distinct high pitched cry can be seen in the video from 1:09. The Ezo Pika is said to have arrived in Japan from the Siberian continent during the ice age. In this video, you can see the lives of cute, wild ezo pika. Please enjoy the video showing the ecology of ezo pika. What is the Ezo Pika? Photo：Ezo Pika The ezo pika is also called the "God of Rocky Lands" due to its habit of running around the rocky land of their natural habitat. Hokkaido’s aboriginal Ainu people used to call the ezo pika "Cicit Cu Kamuy" (The "Cheeping" God) in Ainu language. The mouse-like ezo pika is very small, weighing only about 60-150 grams, with a length of 10-20 cm, and a lifespan of about 4-5 years, which is shorter than most pikas. They are full of curiosity but very timid, so they are very rarely seen in public. Their natural habitat is the cold wind caves of the Daisetsuzan mountains located high above sea level that don't freeze during the winter. In Japan, these critters are also known to only inhabit Hokkaido. Their breeding period is once a year from spring to summer, and they give birth to 1 to 5 kittens at a time. How Ezo Pika Survive Winter The ezo pika is entirely vegetarian, feeding on every plant in the mountains and is sometimes called "the pacifist of the mountains." In the video from 0:42, there is a scene of an ezo pika with leaves in its mouth. Ezo pika do not hibernate so they must make winter preparations before the snow piles up. This involves stocking their houses with food. They have the intelligence to dry plants such as leaves, turning it into a dry-grass-preserved food which allows them to survive up to 6 months of harsh winter. They store about a bucketful of food in each of the several locations in their territory. You can see this in the video from 1:49. Where Can I See Ezo Pika? Photo：Beautiful Autumn Leaves at Daisetsuzan Ezo Pika live in only limited parts of Hokkaido, so the possibility of encountering them is very low. If you do mountain climbing or participate in nature tours and go to photo points, you may have a chance to see them. Ezo pika only live in the wild, and it is said that they cannot be raised in zoos and laboratories. It is also impossible to keep them as pets. If you are attracted to the cute ezo pika, we recommend that you buy a plush toy or photo book as a souvenir of your trip to Hokkaido. Summary of the Ezo Pika In the introductory video, you can see scenes of ezo pika running around busily searching for food. There's something soothing about looking at this little critter squeaking about. These animals are hard to find in the wild, so be sure to take the time to check out the videos and enjoy their cuteness!

This video, titled "[4K] 35 Jets in Heavy Snow! Winter Plane Spotting at Sapporo New Chitose Airport / 新千歳空港 JAL ANA," was released by " j-sky on YouTube." This video shows over 30 minutes of airplanes departing from and landing at New Chitose Airport in Hokkaido. One of the features of New Chitose Airport in Hokkaido is that planes can take off and land even on snowy days. In Japan's Honshu region, flights can be cancelled when there is a lot of snow, but Hokkaido's airport is unaffected by a little snow. The Hokkaido area is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Japan. If you want to enjoy the snowy scenery, try to get a plane ticket on a snowy day like the one shown in the video!

Wild Yezo Sika Deer in Notsuke Peninsula! In this video “Yezo Sika Deer in Notsuke Peninsula（野付半島のエゾシカ）”, created by Shinji Kawamura, you can watch the wild Yezo sika deer, living in herds in the snow of Notsuke Peninsula (野付半島, Notsuke Hanto), Hokkaido. The Yezo sika deer, which belong to the Cervidae family, is one of many subspecies of the sika deer (the Japanese deer), mainly living in the grasslands of Hokkaido. Its body is bigger than that of the Japanese deer; It is approximately 1.5 meters long and 1.1 meters high. As you can see in this video, the Yezo sika deer has large antlers, which are shed between April and May every year. Yezo sika deer are herbivorous animals, and they have unique high-pitched calls. The wild Yezo sika deer shown in this video are from herds living in Notsuke Peninsula, Hokkaido. Notsuke Peninsula is the biggest sand peninsula/sand spit in Japan; It is approximately 26 kilometers long, and located between Shiretoko Peninsula (知床半島, Shiretoko Hanto) and Nemuro Peninsula (根室半島, Nemuro Hanto). Many wild birds, animals, and insects live there. In December, when the grass dies, herds of Yezo sika deer move to their “winter home,”- forests with more coniferous trees and less accumulated snow. From 0:55 in the video, you can see the Yezo sika deer living in herds in the snow. The Population of Wild Yezo Sika Deer Photo：Yezo Sika Deer The population of the Yezo sika deer once decreased dramatically due to hunting and deforestation in the early Meiji Period around 1868. However, after implementing measures to prohibiting over hunting, the population has been increasing. Each deer eats a large amount of grass every day, so currently there are some problems regarding the damage of crops and forests, and the destruction of the environment. In addition, as its population has increased, more Yezo sika deers appear in urban areas, which leads to problems of disruptive animals. From 1:33 in the video, you can hear sounds of a car running behind a herd of the Yezo sika deer. From the video, you can see that the Yezo sika deer lives very closely to humans. The “Yezo Deer Association” was founded in order to maintain a symbiotic relationship with the Yezo sika deer. Currently people take some measures to control the population of the Yezo sika deer, such as controlled hunting. The captured Yezo sika deer are used in venison dishes, for leather-working, deer fur products, antler products, and so on. Wild game meat dishes are very expensive in Europe, and venison is said to be healthy and has a unique flavor, so venison dishes are very popular. Venison is heated thoroughly and cooked into roasted meat or steak to avoid zoonotic diseases and food intoxication. Where to See the Wild Yezo Sika Deer Photo：Yezo Sika Deer at Notsuke Peninsula Notsuke Peninsula is an area where many wild animals have lived for a long time, even since the era of the Ainu (the native tribes of Hokkaido). It has multiple national forests and the Nationally Designated Special Wildlife Reserve. At Notsuke Peninsula Nature Center, a hub for sightseeing, you can learn about the natural surroundings and the history of Notsuke Peninsula. It also provides a wide range of tours, so you can join one of them and go around Notsuke Peninsula. (The tours are a paid attraction and you must book ahead of time). We cannot guarantee that you can always see the Yezo sika deer as they are wild, but even if you cannot see the deer during the tour, you can still enjoy the wild of Hokkaido to your hearts content. Overview of the Yezo Sika Deer Introductory Video Source :YouTube screenshot The video we introduced this time showed Yezo sika deer living in herds in Hokkaido's wilderness. The video has many fun facts about the Yezo sika deer, such as characteristics of its antlers, the white furs of their hips, and its general habits, so be sure to take a look if you haven't yet! If you're looking to enjoy Japan's wilderness, look no further than Hokkaido! 【Official Website】Notsuke Peninsula Nature Center Hokkaido Betsukai http://notsuke.jp/ 　 【Official Website】Yezo Deer Association http://yezodeer.org/

Video about introducing Hakodate morning market in Hokkaido 「The "Hakodate Seafood Market-Japanese Gastronomy（函館海鮮市場 - 日本美食）" produced by "Aden 小吃" is a video that introduces the Hakodate Morning Market, a popular tourist spot in Hakodate. There are various famous stores such as fresh seafood, local specialties, and restaurants where you can eat delicious rice. And, it is one of the top sightseeing spots in Hokkaido, which is irresistible for gourmet lovers. You can buy souvenirs such as fresh products and processed products, and enjoy delicious gourmet foods and lunches at this fish market / large market. This article introduces the charm of Hakodate’s Morning Market in Hokkaido, which is visited by many customers early in the morning. What is Hakodate’s morning market? Photo：Hakodate・Cuddlefish angling What is Hakodate Morning Market in Hokkaido? Hakodate Morning Market, located in Hakodate, Hokkaido. It is a popular morning market dotted with shops selling fresh seafood and various restaurants. In the video, you can see crabs, squid from the beginning, tuna from 5:22, and popular seafood such as scallops from 11:42. We sell not only seafood but also fruits and vegetables such as melons, delicacies such as salted squid, dried foods and processed foods. Hakodate’s Morning Market in Hokkaido is also popular as a gourmet spot, and we recommend "Hakodate Morning Market Donburi Yokocho Market" where you can enjoy popular ramen such as "Kamome", various seafood bowls, and the popular "Sakaeya" restaurant. Other popular items include “live squid sashimi”, “geso roasted ice cream”, “local fruit juice” and “salmon toba”. We also recommend squid fishing at the famous fish cage, which you can see at 2:43 in the video. The squid caught in the "Live squid fishing pond" will be cleaned on the spot and made into sashimi so you can enjoy very fresh squid. We recommend watching the video closely as they show the cleaning process very clearly. The History of Hakodate’s Morning Market in Hokkaido Photo： Hakodate Morning Market After the war, vegetables were sold in a small section of the square out front of Hakodate station. After that, it was relocated 3 times and became the current location. Many stores were damaged by the tsunami caused by the Great East Japan Earthquake, but they immediately resumed operations with the help of volunteers. In 2013, the Oshima Sosai Agricultural Cooperative Dome was demolished, and in 2014 a space for the Hakodate morning market was created. Today's Hakodate morning market has about 250 stores, and about 1.5 million tourists visit each year. Access is a 2-minute walk from JR Hakodate Station or Hakodate City Tram, Hakodate Station. Summary of introductory articles on Hakodate’s Morning Market, Hokkaido Photo：Hakodate King Crab "Hakodate Seafood Market-Japanese Gastronomy" produced by "Aden小吃" is a video introducing the charm of Hakodate’s Morning Market in Hokkaido. The Hakodate Morning Market, which has a long history since the war, is a popular spot where various ingredients are sold. In addition to fresh seafood, there are many excellent gourmet dishes such as ramen, melon and more. There are many items that can be purchased as souvenirs, such as dried fish and processed products. So please drop by Hakodate’s Morning Market and enjoy shopping, as well as popular sightseeing destinations such as Mount Hakodate in Hakodate City. ◆ Introduction of Hakodate Morning Market ◆ 【Address】 9-19 Wakamatsucho, Hakodate City, Hokkaido 040-0063 【Access】2 minutes walk from JR Hakodate Station, Hakodate City Tram Hakodate Station 【Operating Hours】6:00～ 【Parking】There is a coin parking lot nearby 【Telephone No】0138-22-7981 【Official Website】Hakodate Morning Market Official Site https://www.uu-hokkaido.com/corporate/hakodate-asaichi.shtml

The White-Tailed Eagle of Hokkaido! The video "White-tailed eagle Akan Japanese Crane Center" introduced in this article, shows some white-tailed eagles living around Akan Lake (阿寒湖, Akan ko) in Kushiro, Hokkaido. The white-tailed eagle circling leisurely in the sky with its glistening white tail feathers outstretched is truly a majestic sight. Let's take a closer look at the white-tailed eagle, which, along with the Steller's sea eagle, is known as one of the largest eagles in the world, and learn more about its biology. The video also shows white-tailed eagles catching fish at the Akan International Crane Center. The White-Tailed Eagle Photo：A white tailed eagle from the side The white-tailed eagle is a member of accipitriformes order, accipitridae family, and Haliaeetus genus, and can be found in the northeastern part of Hokkaido, Japan. It is a protected species and is currently listed as a rare wildlife species in Japan, and is listed as an endangered species on the Red List of the Ministry of the Environment. White-tailed eagles are 70 to 98 centimeters in length, with a wing span of 180 to 240 centimeters, and weigh 3 to 7 kilograms. They have white plumage and a slightly muffled call. Young birds are covered entirely with brown feathers and have white spots, but the spots disappear with age. They are carnivorous and have an average lifespan of about 20 years. More About the White-Tailed Eagle Photo：White-tailed eagle There are approximately 1,700 white-tailed eagles wintering in Hokkaido. As shown in the video, white-tailed eagles can be seen living not only in the Akan area, but also in Sapporo City. In rare cases, they also fly from northern Honshu to the Chubu and Kyushu regions. The Akan International Crane Center Gloss, introduced in the video, is a facility that provides information on a variety of wild birds, including the Japanese crane, which is shown at 0:44 in the video, and we definitely recommend giving it a visit. It's also well known among aviation fans that the JASDF's Phantom aircraft had a white-tailed eagle pattern painted on its vertical stabilizer. In the video, the white-tailed eagle is seen flying in a circle over the heads of the Japanese cranes, but it's actually aiming at its prey, and at 2:00 in the video, it finally goes after it. This is the highlight of the video, so be sure to check it out! Another white-tailed eagle appears with the white-tailed eagle that the camera had been following, and in a moment, grabs the catch of the first one with its feet and flies away. This can be seen in slow-mo at 2:25 in the video. Summary of Hokkaido's White-Tailed Eagle Photo：A Steller's sea eagle and a white-tailed eagle In this article, we introduced a fascinating bird you can find in Hokkaido, the white-tailed eagle. If you want to see the beautiful white-tailed eagles shown in this video, why not plan a bird-watching trip to Hokkaido? If your trip to Hokkaido is for white-tailed eagles, you can also purchase white-tailed eagle caramel cookies made by Nemuro cafe as a souvenir. ◆Akan International Crane Center General Information◆ 【Address】40 Akancho Kamiakan, Kushiro, Hokkaido 085-0245 【Access】25 minutes by bus from Kushiro Airport 【Admission fee】Adults (high school students and older) 480 yen, elementary and junior high school students 250 yen (*as of December 2019) 【Hours] 】9:00～17:00 【Closures】None 【Parking】Available 【Telephone】0154-66-4011 【Official Website】Akan International Crane Center-Wix.com https://aiccgrus.wixsite.com/aiccgrus/english-page

The Ice Chapel of Hokkaido's Hoshino Resorts Tomamu! This video, titled "氷の教会 (ICE CHAPEL)" was produced by "Hoshino Resorts Tomamu (Official)." It introduces the beautiful ice chapel at Hoshino Resorts Tomamu. A chapel made of ice sounds probably sounds like something you'd find in a fairy tale, but this chapel is very real. The ice chapel,introduced in the video, can be found at Hoshino Resorts Tomamu in Hokkaido. The dreamy chapel, utilizing Hokkaido’s harsh climate, is gaining popularity among couples looking to have a unique wedding. Enjoy the beauty of the chapel shown in the video. About Hoshino Resorts Tomamu's Ice Chapel Source :YouTube screenshot The ice chapel at Hoshino Resorts Tomamu is available for just one month when Hokkaido is blanketed in pure white snow and the temperature drops to -30 degrees celsius (~-22 Fahrenheit). The ice chapel has a distinct, dome-shaped exterior. You can see the exterior at 1:19 in the video. As shown in the introduction at1:07 the aisle, altar, crosses, and even the candles are all made of ice and snow. The chapel is illuminated by a beautiful light called "ice blue," creating a magical atmosphere. Having a wedding, said to be one of the most important days of one's life, at this beautiful chapel, will make for an unforgettable experience. What to Do at Hoshino Resorts Tomamu Source :【Official Homepage】Hoshino Resorts Tomamu The ice chapel is located in the Ice Village, which appears only in winter at Hokkaido Hoshino Resorts Tomamu. In addition to the Ice Village, there is an ice hotel, an ice sweets shop, an ice slide, an ice bath, an ice bar, an ice atelier, and an ice general store. In winter, you can also enjoy a dog sledding experience at Hokkaido Hoshino Resorts Tomamu. Passing through the Ice Village's mysterious ice gates will take you to another world. Facilities at Hoshino Resorts Tomamu Photo：Hoshino Resorts Tomamu Hoshino Resorts Tomamu, built in the great outdoors of Hokkaido, has many attractive buildings besides the ice chapelshown in the video. "The Tower," which is the hotel in the central area, is a lodging facility where you can stay the night. There are also numerous restaurants, hot springs, and activity facilities on site. The water chapel, designed by the world-renowned architect Tadao Ando, is another facility used for weddings and has a very romantic atmosphere. Summary of Hoshino Resorts Tomamu's Ice Chapel Source :YouTube screenshot This video shows scenes of magical weddings held at Hoshino Resorts Tomamu's ice chapel. The bride's winter-themed wedding dress is also very beautiful. If you're thinking of having a resort wedding at the ice chapel, be sure to visit the website and look into what they have to offer. ◆Hoshino Resorts Tomamu｜Ice Village, Facility Overview◆ 【Address】Naka-Tomamu Shimukappu Yufutsu Hokkaido 〒079-2204 【Access】5 minutes from Doto Expressway Tomamu I.C. 【2020 Open Period】January 20th -February 14th 2020 【Hours】17:45〜、19:45〜、21:45〜、About 10 minutes per session 【Parking】Available 【Telephone Number】0167-58-1111 【Official Website】ICE VILLAGE｜Hoshino Resorts Tomamu【Official】 https://www.snowtomamu.jp/special/icevillage/en/ 【Tripadvisor】Hoshino Resorts Tomamu https://www.tripadvisor.com/ShowUserReviews-g1120868-d1384236-r562576645-Hoshino_Resort_Tomamu-Shimukappu_mura_Yufutsu_gun_Hokkaido.html

Introduction of Obihiro Zoo’s Japanese Raccoon Dogs! This video, “しぐさが可愛い！おびひろ動物園のタヌキが人気に” (Too cute! The Popular Raccon Dogs of Obihiro Zoo!), is an interview-style video first televised on HTB News. In the video, “buried raccoon dogs”, the adorable sight of raccoon dogs playing in the pool of fallen leaves prepared by the zoo’s staff, is shown. But just why are the raccoon dogs of Obihiro Zoo (おびひろ動物園, Obihiro dobutsuen) burying into the fallen leaves? In this article, we will introduce these animals along with a video of the adorable raccoon dogs peeking out from the fallen leaves. Obihiro Zoo's Raccoon Dogs Source :YouTube screenshot The raccoon dogs shown in the video are named An and Shiro. Originally, the zoo staff had hidden food in the fallen leaves. However, the raccoon dogs continued to bury themselves comfortably in the pool of leaves, as shown in the video, due to the warmth provided by it. The adorable sight of their faces peeking out from amongst the leaves can be seen from 0:25 in the video. This video of the raccoon dogs playing in the pool of leaves was posted on Twitter by zoo staff, and began to trend on social media sites. What Are Japanese Raccoon Dogs? Source :YouTube screenshot Japanese raccoon dogs are a member of the Canidae family, and are a Japanese subspecies of the Asian raccoon dog. They can be found in certain areas of Hokkaido. Japanese raccoon dogs grow to a length of about 50 centimeters and weight about 4 to 8 kilograms. Those living in the wild have a lifespan of 6 to 8 years. They are mostly nocturnal, and subsist on an omnivorous diet of fruits, insects, and meat. The ezo tanuki species of Hokkaido is said to be different from the hondo tanuki species found in other areas of Japan. Japanese raccoon dogs come under the Wildlife Protection and Hunting Act of Japan, and cannot be raised as pets without special permission. Let’s Visit the Zoo to See the Japanese Raccoon Dogs! Source :YouTube screenshot The raccoon dogs can be seen in Obihiro Zoo, as introduced in the video. However, as mentioned at 0:44 in the video, the zoo closes for a certain period of time during the winter season, so do make sure to confirm the opening days before visiting. In recent years, the “natural behavior display”, where visitors can observe the behavior of animals in their natural habitat, has become a popular display method in zoos. In Hokkaido, besides Obihiro Zoo, zoos such as the popular Asahiyama Zoo (旭山動物園, Asahiyama dobutsuen) and Sapporo City Maruyama Zoo (札幌市円山動物園, Sappro-shi maruyama dobutsuen) also make use of such displays. In the souvenir shop of the zoo, you can purchase adorable raccoon dog plush toys as well. Summary of Japanese Raccoon Dogs at Obihiro Zoo In this one-minute video, you can get a sense of just how adorable and charming the Japanese raccoon dogs are. As seen from 0:50 in the video, as the season begins to change to winter, the raccoon dogs’ fur grows out rapidly and becomes soft and fluffy. For those who want to view this adorable sight, definitely pay a visit to Obihiro Zoo in the winter. 【Official Website】Obihiro Zoo | Obihiro City Homepage Tokachi https://www.city.obihiro.hokkaido.jp/zoo/

Kutchan, Hokkaido's “Zaborin” The video this time is a promotional video for the Hotel/Hot Springs ryokan “Zaborin,” created by “Teiku Hiko HIGH RESOLUTION TOUR （北海道 倶知安町 坐忘林 | Hokkaido Kutchan ZABORIN）”. In this article, we'll introduce you to the 100% pure hot springs in the great outdoors of Hokkaido, and the attracting “Zaborin” where you can spend a most relaxing and quiet time. “Zaborin” has many good reviews on different websites, such as hotel/ryokan websites and price comparison sites. In the video, it briefly explains the facilities of the ryokan as well as the rooms and hot springs. Enjoy the quaint space of the hot springs in Kutchan, a popular tourist spot with bountiful nature. The Zaborin Hot Springs in Kutchan, Hokkaido Source :YouTube screenshot “Zaborin” is a luxury ryokan located in the popular tourist spot, Kutchan, Hokkaido. It takes about 2 hours by car from New Chitose Airport. It was designed by a British couple who loved Japan and were fascinated by the nature of Niseko. It is a must-see ryokan if you're interested in Japanese modernity. Enjoy the view of Mt. Yoteizan, the outstanding nature of Hokkaido, and its native Japanese white birch trees. All 15 rooms contain a private 100% pure hot spring, with both inside and open-air baths. Please refer to the video at 0:35. This pure hot spring gushes out into the property of Zaborin. The hot springs contains sodium, hydrogen carbonate, and chloride which helps to maintain beautiful skin and health. Other ailments these hot springs treat are neuralgia, soreness, joint pain, stiff shoulders, motor paralysis, stiff joints, bruises, sprains, fatigue, chronic digestive diseases, hemorrhoids, cold sensitivity, cuts, burns, chronic skin disease, and more. Please note that “Zaborin” does not have a large community bath. Amenities are provided in the room, so there's no need to bring your own. Wouldn't you like to wake up early in the morning, take a fresh bath in the hot springs, and see the sun rise from Mt. Muine? Rooms at Kutchan, Hokkaido's "Zaborin" Source :Zaborin Official Website Hotel “Zaborin” offers western-style rooms, Japanese-style rooms, and suite rooms as well. All of the rooms are very spacious as well, and come with a living room attached to them. During the winter, time seems to freeze, as the outside world is covered with snow. You can try some winter sports at "Niseko Mountain Resort Grand HIRAFU," "Niseko HANAZONO Resort," "White Isle Niseko," and "Asahigaoka Ski Resort. Or you could stay in your room all day and enjoy the view in the hot springs. We're not here to judge you... Gourmet Dining at “Zaborin” Source : Zaborin Official Website Try a Japanese traditional course-meal with plenty of Hokkaido seasonal grace at “Zaborin.” You can also try the different kinds of fresh local food at the restaurant inside the ryokan. You can also enjoy duck and deer game dishes depending on the season. In the morning, they serve creative cuisine using fresh Hokkaidan ingredients. They have a counter bar where you can enjoy the view of Mt. Yoteizan while warming up with some spirits as well. Tourist Spots Around “Zaborin” Photo：Shirogane Blue Pond There are several tourist spots near “Zaborin” Kutchan, Hokkaido. Other tourist spots you can try when you visit “Zaborin” are, - The private garden "Mishima’s Shibazakura Garden" with Mt. Yoteizan in the backdrop - "Hangetsuko Nature Park," a quiet lake at the base of Mt. Yoteizan - "Kagaminuma," where you can enjoy trekking - "The Shu Ogawara Museum of art " containing art from the local artist Shu Ogawara - "Kuchan Hudokan" which displays unique exhibits - "NOASC" where you can experience rafting Summary of Kutchan, Hokkaido's “Zaborin” Source :YouTube screenshot As you can see in the video, “Zaborin” offers a relaxing atmosphere with luxurious private hot springs. At “Zaborin,” there are Irori fireplaces, “Cha no Za,” where you can have tea, a library, a smoking area, a massage room, foot bath, a boutique store where they sell popular butter cases, and lockers for skiing and golfing. If you're thinking about going to Japan to enjoy its hidden gems and secret getaways in its beautiful outdoors, don't overlook Zaborin. Be sure to watch the video and see just how fascinating it is. Please check the official homepage and travel websites for tour pricing, plans, and rooms. Prices often vary by season. ◆Zaborin◆ 【Address】76-4 Hanazono, Kutchan, Abuta district, Hokkaido 044-0084 【Access】2 hours by car from Shin Chitose Airport 【Parking】Available 【Telephone No】0136-23-0003 【Official Website】Ryokan Zaborin | Hokkaido https://zaborin.com/en/ 【Tripadvisor】Zaborin https://www.tripadvisor.com/Hotel_Review-g1025639-d7745400-Reviews-Zaborin-Kutchan_cho_Abuta_gun_Hokkaido.html

Sapporo Clock Tower! This time, we'll introduce the video "Sapporo 'Sapporo Clock Tower,'" a video tour of Sapporo City Clock Tower, a popular tourist attraction in Sapporo City (札幌市, Sapporo-Shi), Hokkaido (北海道, Hokkaido)! The Sapporo Clock Tower is a distinctive building with a large clock on a triangular roof in Sapporo City, Hokkaido. The Sapporo Clock Tower is the oldest existing clock tower in Japan and has been designated as an Important Cultural Property of Japan. In this article, we introduce the Sapporo Clock Tower alongside the video. What Is the Sapporo Clock Tower? Photo：Hokkaido・Sapporo Clock Tower The Sapporo Clock Tower is a historical building built in 1876 as the former Sapporo Agricultural College's (currently Hokkaido University) martial arts dojo (enbujo). As you can see from 1:50 in the video, the signboard that says "enbujo" is still there. This mechanical clock tower was installed in the building in 1881. The clock is a pendulum-type tower clock made in the United States. The clock tower was purchased by the Sapporo City Government in 1896, and the building was used as a library and public hall before being used as an exhibition hall. More About the Sapporo Clock Tower Source :YouTube screenshot The area where the Sapporo Clock Tower is located is also known as the birthplace of Hokkaido University. Many documents from the Hokkaido University Library are displayed at the Sapporo Clock Tower as well. As you can see from 2:41 in the video, a photo of "Bell of Clock Tower," a song written by Tetsuo Takashina in 1922, played on the violin, is displayed in the exhibition room on the first floor. Additionally, from 4:11 in the video, you can see a reproduction of the auditorium on the second floor of the Sapporo Clock Tower and the inner workings of the clock. Sightseeing Around Sapporo Clock Tower Photo：Sapporo Hitsujigaoka Observation Hill・Clark Statue In the vicinity of the Clock Tower in Sapporo City, you can see the Former Hokkaido Government Office Building (Red Brick Office Building), and also Hokkaido University, known for the famous words of Dr. Clark, the first vice principal of the university, who said "Boys, be ambitious!" The former Sapporo Agricultural College's dojo was constructed based on the concept that Dr. Clark produced, and in 2017, a statue of Dr. Clark was installed in the Sapporo Clock Tower. You can also enjoy other local delicacies in Sapporo, such as ramen and seafood bowls. There are also many places where you can buy souvenirs nearby. The Sapporo Clock Tower also hosts concerts and events, so be sure to check out their schedule when visiting. Summary of the Sapporo Clock Tower Photo：Hokkaido・Sapporo Clock Tower This video captures the charm of the Sapporo Clock Tower in Hokkaido. The Sapporo Clock Tower underwent a renovation in 2018 and now looks refreshed and beautiful. Unfortunately, the Sapporo Clock Tower is surrounded by buildings and is unfortunately one of the "three most disappointing spots in Japan" due to its less-than-ideal view. However, if you actually visit and tour the museum, you'll be able to enjoy a facility that gives you a sense of Japan's history and culture. If you're looking for places in Hokkaido that are perfect for your Instagram, Sapporo Clock Tower is the place to go! ◆Sapporo Clock Tower Facility Information◆ 【Address】Kita 1-jo Nishi 2-chome, Chuo-Ward, Sapporo 【Access】A 10-minute walk from JR Sapporo Station, a 5-minute walk from Odori Subway Station 【Hours】8:45～17:10 【Admission Fee】Adults: 200 JPY, Free for high school students and younger 【Parking】None 【Telephone】011-231-0838 【Official Website】Sapporo Clock Tower：HOME http://sapporoshi-tokeidai.jp/english/ 【Tripadvisor】Sapporo Clock Tower https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g298560-d319830-Reviews-Clock_Tower_Tokei_dai-Sapporo_Hokkaido.html

Okushiri Island, Hokkaido The video “Okushiri Promotional Video (3 minutes)” is a sightseeing video introducing Okushiri Island, one of the remote islands of Hokkaido. This video was produced by “Okushiri Sightseeing Channel” (奥尻観光チャンネル) Okushiri Island is an island located in the Japan Sea, at the southwestern part of Hokkaido. The island's area is 143 km², making it the 5th largest island in Hokkaido. The population is 2,707 (as of April 2018). Most of the island is a beechwood forest, and it is noted for its pristine nature. This video is about 3 minutes long and introduces marine activities that can be enjoyed in the crystal clear waters of Okushiri Island. Please enjoy the sea of Okushiri Island, the clearest waters in Hokkaido! Activities to Enjoy at Okushiri Island Photo：Paddle surfing The Okushiri Sea is said to be the clearest in Hokkaido. And due to its beauty, it is often called "Okushiri Blue." Scenes of people enjoying sea kayaking in Okushiri’s beautiful sea is introduced in the video at 0:18. Chartered mini cruising, or enjoying the popular SUP (Stand Up Paddleboat) on the sea surface during sunset introduced at 1:22, are 2 activities that we recommend trying. Trying the Okushiri Foot Path, a leisurely walk through the rich natural beauty of Okushiri Island, is sure to make for a memorable experience. People wildly jumping into the beautiful sea from the cliff of rocks is shown at 0:46. Famous Sightseeing Spots Nearby Okushiri Island Photo：Nabetsuru Rock “Nabetsuru Rock,” shaped like the handle of a pot, is a symbol of Okushiri’s sea. Check out the view of the sea from Tamashimayama Observatory, great for taking Instagram pics. Standing by at the historical Miyatsubentengu or Okushiri Island Tsunami Memorial Hall is also recommended. Okushiri Island hosts the Okushiri Moonlight Marathon in June and the Murotsu Festival in July to pray for safe sailing and good fishing. We recommend visiting the island when these events are taking place. Popular Local Cuisine in Okushiri, Hokkaido! Photo：Seafood ingredients When traveling to Hokkaido, you can't miss out on the fresh seafood they have to offer. In Okushiri Island, you can try "fisherman's rice" with fresh sea urchins and abalone, the sea urchin rice bowl, and half-boiled Atka mackerel "shabu-shabu." Local gourmet foods such as Okushiri wine and Nabetsuru curry are also popular. Okushiri wine is Japan's only wine produced as a recovery effort after the 1993 Hokkaido Southwest Earthquake that struck Okushiri Island. Okushiri Winery is the only winery in Japan located on a remote island. Everything from grape cultivation to shipping is done on Okushiri Island, and you can also visit the factory. Okushiri Island is home to the comical local character named "Unimaru," who is based on a sea urchin. “About 2km from the ferry landing is Unimaru Park, where you can see the Unimaru statue in the shape of a sea urchin. There is a circular monument with 120 spikes that are lit up at night. As souvenirs of your trip, you can purchase “Unimaru” goods as well as seafood. Summary of Sightseeing at Okushiri Island, Hokkaido Enjoying the beautiful views and the marine activities at the amazing Okushiri Island are sure to make for an unforgettable experience. As you can see in the video, the appeal of Okushiri Island is that you can fully enjoy nature in a way that is hard to find nowadays. Access to Okushiri Island is about 2 hours by ferry from Esashi, if you come by the Hokkaido Esashi route. At Okushiri Island there are hotels and Japanese style inns (ryokan), as well as camping areas. Take your time and enjoy the natural beauty of Okushiri Island. 【Official website】Hokkaido Okushiri Town Town Hall website http://www.town.okushiri.lg.jp/hotnews/category/8.html 【Official website】Okushiri Island Sightseeing Association https://okushiri-imacoco.com/

Hokkaido's Asahiyama Zoo The video "JG 4K Asahiyama Zoo, Hokkaido" (JG 4K 北海道 旭山動物園 Asahiyama Zoo, Hokkaido), introduces Asahiyama Zoo, a popular tourist spot in Hokkaido. Asahiyama Zoo is 15 hectares. It's the size of about 3 Tokyo Domes. There are over 650 animals (100 species) bred in the park. The 20-minute video contains plenty of cute animals, so be sure to check it out! About Hokkaido Asahiyama Zoo Photo：Asahiyama Zoo Hokkaido Asahiyama Zoo, known as the northernmost zoo in Japan, is a historical zoo that opened in 1951. The special feature of Asahiyama Zoo is the "Behavior Exhibit" where you can see the behavior and life of the animals. The facility is designed to allow visitors to get up close and personal with animals that move around freely. To achieve this goal, penguins roam the park freely, and they hold an event to display meal time called "Munching Time." Another characteristic of Asahiyama Zoo's exhibition is the "mixed exhibition" in which different animals are raised in the same place. The Asahiyama Zoo was in danger of closing in 1994 (Heisei 6), but by incorporating these exhibits, the Asahiyama Zoo has recovered brilliantly. During its big boom, it became the nation's top zoo, attracting 3 million visitors annually. Currently, you can see behavior exhibits at zoos around the country. The Animals of Asahiyama Zoo Photo：Asahiyama Zoo From 0:25 in the video, you can see the popular penguins, and from 2:04, you can see the awesome appearance of the polar bears at the Polar Bear Hall. In the video, you can see the tiger at the Moujukan (15:29-), a snow leopard (15:38), an elephant brown bear 15:48, elephants, seals (9:41), red pandas (18:08),snowy owls (18:46), cranes (19:10), and eagles (19:27). The park is quite large, and you can enjoy a variety of facilities such as the 360-degree underwater tunnel, a hippopotamus building, a wolf forest, flamingo house, monkey house, giraffe house, a suspension bridge, and a marine way. Although not shown in the video, you can see reindeer, hippos, giraffes, chimpanzees, ostriches, Japanese macaques, foxes, raccoons, capybaras and other animals as well. One of the attractions of the Asahiyama Zoo is its various events that are held throughout the year. During the Obon season, they extend their hours of operation to allow you to observe nocturnal animals in a different way than you do during the day. There is also a restaurant where you can enjoy lunch and a souvenir shop where you can purchase limited edition animal merchandise. Take your time and enjoy the sights along the tour. Summary of Hokkaido's Asahiyama Zoo Photo：A King Penguin Hokkaido has a variety of sightseeing spots, including Sapporo City, Furano, and Hakodate, so be sure to visit Asahiyama Zoo if you're headed that way. There are a number of sightseeing tours offered, but since your time at the zoo is limited to 2-3 hours, it may not be enough to enjoy all that the zoo has to offer. In winter, business hours are shorter, so please check the weather and other information before visiting. There are restaurants and hotels in the surrounding area, so it's a good idea to stay in Asahikawa and enjoy the sights and sounds of the city. As of March 31, 2018, the Asahiyama Zoo Live Camera was discontinued, so please take the time to enjoy the animals' ecology through this video. ◆Asahiyama Zoo◆ 【Address】 Kuranuma, Higashi Asahikawa Town, Asahikawa City, Hokkaido 【Director】Gen Bando 【Access】About 40 minutes by bus from Asahikawa Station (2 hours from Sapporo). There is also the "Asahiyama Zoo Train" that runs between Sapporo and Asahikawa. 【Hours】Summer 9: 30-17: 15, Winter 10: 30-15: 30 【Admission Fee】Free for junior high school students and younger, 820 yen for high school students and older (special discount coupon available for senior citizens) 【Parking】Available (free) 【Phone number】0166-36-1104 【Official Website】Home | Asahikawa City Asahiyama Zoo https://honyaku.j-server.com/LUCAKC/ns/tl.cgi/https://www.city.asahikawa.hokkaido.jp/asahiyamazoo/index.html?SLANG=ja&TLANG=en&XMODE=0&XCHARSET=utf-8&XJSID=0 【Tripadvisor】 Asahiyama Zoo https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g319103-d780529-Reviews-Asahiyama_Zoo-Asahikawa_Hokkaido.html

This video, titled "An Eternal Longing ☆ The Princess Experience Is Really Popular!" (永遠の憧れ☆プリンセス お姫様体験が大人気), was released by "KyodoNews." This video is a news video released by Kyodo News that gives shows you princess experiences in Japan. The Disney Store, which sells Disney princess costumes, is the driving force behind the experience of becoming a princess, every girl's dream. The Snow Crystal Museum in Asahikawa, Hokkaido, is a popular place where you can feel like a princess, as it looks just like the castle from Disney's "Frozen." Lockhart Castle in Takayama Village, Gunma Prefecture, is a popular destination for couples and women, with more than 250 costumes available in the exotic mountain castle. These princess experiences have also increased tourism. It's been observed that Disney characters have become more popular due to their increased diversity.

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

About Garinko II, the Icebreaking Ship Garinko II, which you can see in the video titled "Aerial Footage. Drift-ice breaker Garinko II" (空撮　流氷砕氷観光船ガリンコ号2), is an ice-breaking sightseeing boat in Hokkaido designed as a successor to Garinko I. Originally, Garinko I was a laboratory ship named “Okhotsk,” developed by Mitsui Shipbuilding for the purpose of oilfield development. After experiments in 1985, it was turned into a sightseeing ship and renamed “Garinko” under the cooperation of Japan Marine Engineering and Mitsui Shipbuilding. Garinko I was chartered to Monbetsu Port in Hokkaido in 1987, and it became the world's first ice-breaking sightseeing boat, accommodating 32 people. Later it was renovated to a ship with two floors. By 1996, approximately 80,000 tourists had rode on Garinko I. Photo：Garinko As you can see at 0:05 in the video, Garinko II, which entered service in January 1997, was designed as an ice-breaking ship with a total tonnage of 150 tons and 195 passengers. Garinko II, manufactured in Yamanishi, is equipped with an Archimedean screw, a screw that when turned, allows it to break up ice as thick as 40 centimeters unhindered. You can watch the ship crushing the ice floe in this video. A new ship is scheduled to enter service in 2021 that will operate alongside Garinko II. The Garinko II Cruise Tours You Should Try Photo：Icebreaker There are some different Garinko II cruise tours. For example, you can try the “Sunrise Cruise” in the early morning; Garinko II departs from the port in the early winter morning before the sunrise. The scenery of the drift ice dyed in the morning sun is beautiful. Don't forget your camera! In summer, you can enjoy fishing on the “Fishing Cruise.” You can rent fishing rods and buy bait before the cruise, so you don’t have to worry about bringing any fishing tools. How to Enjoy the Garinko II Cruise Source :YouTube screenshot Tourists board Garinko II at the ocean exchange center called "Mombetsu Sea Station (もんべつ海の駅, Monbetsu Umi no Eki).” In addition to the boarding area for Garinko II, this facility also has a tourist information center, Ramen Nishi, Seikomart, Cafe de Okhotsk, and Mink Creek (ミンクの小川, Minku no Ogawa), where you can grab a bite to eat before your cruise. In addition, you can get to the observatory Okhotsk Tower by complimentary shuttle bus; You can get on the shuttle bus by booking a ride at the information center. A cruise on the Garinko II costs 1,500 yen (~$15 USD) (750 yen for kids) in the summer and 3,000 yen (1,500 yen for kids) in the winter. Discount coupons are also offered, such as a JAF (Japan Automobile Federation) discount, so make sure to check them out before booking your cruise. Okhotsk Tokkari Center: The Facility to Visit After Your Ice Breaking Cruise! Photo：Seal After the Garinko II cruise, you can go to Okhotsk Tokkari Center. It consists of two facilities: Azarashi Land and Azarashi Sea Paradise, where you can see many seals. “Azarashi” means seals in English. “Tokkari” is the Ainu word for seal, and more than 20 seals are kept in captivity to breed and protect them. You can also feed the seals directly and take photos with them. Summary of Ice-Breaker Garinko II Source :YouTube screenshot If you have a chance, we highly recommend the Garinko cruise to experience the history of the ice-breaking ship Garinko, and experience the grandeur of Hokkaido's natural beauty. 【Official Website】Okhotsk Garinkotower https://o-tower.co.jp/publics/index/66/#googtrans(ja|en) 【Tripadvisor】Drift Ice Breaker Garinko II https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g1113456-d1946041-Reviews-Garinko_2-Monbetsu_Hokkaido.html

A Look at the Popular Squid Dish From Hakodate, Hokkaido This video, titled "Japanese Street Food - DANCING SQUID SASHIMI Hakodate Japan Seafood," was released by "Travel Thirsty." Squid is a common dish in Japan, but around the world, squid is generally only eaten in Asia, the Americas, and Mediterranean regions such as Italy, while countries where squid is eaten as sashimi are limited to Japan and Korea. In Europe, squid and octopus are generally avoided because of their grotesque appearance, but as Japanese food has become more popular around the world, they have slowly come to be accepted. The setting for this video is a food stall-style restaurant called "Tabiji" located in "Ekini Market" in Hakodate, Hokkaido. The restaurant serves squid and other fresh seafood dishes. Hakodate is popular for its wide variety of seafood dishes, and we recommend the squid dish shown in the video. The highlight of the restaurant is the fresh squid caught in the squid fishing pool inside the restaurant, which is processed and made into sashimi or ika odori don (a dancing squid rice bowl). You might be thinking "eating live squid is cruel," but don't worry, all the squid dishes served here are properly processed and the squid is in fact not live! You can also try other seafood, including various seafood bowls and sashimi. Squid Is a Common Dish in Japan, but How Much Do You Know About Its Biology? Photo：Squid For Japanese people, squid is a dish that can be eaten on a daily basis in a variety of delicious recipes. However, very few people know about the biology of squid, so let's learn a little about them here. Squid are marine mollusks, and as they are nocturnal animals, squid fishing is done at night. The main edible species, such as the Japanese common squid/Japanese flying squid and heterololigo (spear squid), are found in groups. Squid are often thought to have ten legs, but in fact they have eight, the same number as octopus, and the other two are actually tentacles and act as arms. Squid have a more developed muscle and nervous system than other marine organisms, making them one of the top ecosystems in the ocean. There are a variety of species, from the tiny firefly squid measuring only 2 cm in length to the giant squid measuring over 20 meters in length. Squid is a healthy food that is rich in nutrients such as vitamin E, taurine, amino acids, zinc, DHA and EPA. Fresh Squid Recipes Photo：Ika somen In other countries, squid is mainly eaten as fritters, but since Japan is the world's largest consumer of squid, many delicious recipes have been developed throughout the years. Ekini Morning Market, shown in the video, is known as the pioneer of squid fishing pools, where customers fish for squid in a small "pond" and the squid is prepared on the spot. You can see the squid fishing pool from 0:36 in the video. The best way to eat fresh squid is as sashimi! To cut squid, cut along the body and separate the body from the legs. The legs have suckers, a sharp beak, and innards, so carefully separate them with a knife so that the innards are not crushed. From there, cut the body of the squid into thin strips with a knife to make ika somen (squid noodles), a classic squid dish. You can see ika somen being prepared at 2:51 in the video. Fresh squid sashimi is very firm and chewy. The innards of the squid can also be eaten as sashimi, but the best way to eat them is to add salt, crush it, and marinate the squid slices overnight. It can also be cooked in any other preferred method, such as simmered squid and taro, dried squid, or stir-fried. In the video, the freshly processed squid is still moving on the plate, and at 11:57 you can see the squid's legs desperately clinging to the plate with its suckers. Summary of the Squid at Ekini Market in Hakodate, Hokkaido Photo：Japanese common squid At 12:54, towards the end of the video, you can see a delicious squid bowl with ika somen noodles, a generous amount of salmon roe, and a freshly processed squid. When you pour soy sauce on the squid the body will start to move and you might feel a little sorry for them, but just remember that they're not live, they're just as fresh as they can be. There are many rich squid fishing grounds in the seas around Japan, and the season varies for different types of squid: January to May is the best time to catch spear squid, and June to December is the best time to catch Japanese common squid. If you’re visiting Hakodate be sure to enjoy all of the delicious, fresh seafood the city has to offer! ◆Hakodate Morning Market – Ekini Market｜General Information◆ 【Address】9-19 Wakamatsucho, Hakodate 040-0063 Hokkaido 【Access】Approximately 20 minutes from Hakodate Airport via car or taxi 【Hours】May – Oct. 5:30 A.M. – 2:00 P.M., Nov. – Apr. 6:00 A.M. – 2:00 P.M. 【Closures】The third Sunday of each month, July, Sept., Dec. no closures 【Parking】Available (New Ohte Rooftop Parking) 【Telephone】0138-22-5330 【Tripadvisor】Hakodate Morning Market Ekini Market (駅ニ市場) https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g298151-d3210230-Reviews-Ekini_Market-Hakodate_Hokkaido.html

About Hokkaido's Blue Cave Cruise Promotional Video This promotional video, titled "Otaru, Hokkaido - Tsuusen's Original Blue Cave Cruise" (【北海道・小樽】元祖！青の洞窟クルーズbyツウセン), was released by "ACTIVITY JAPAN." It focuses on the Blue Cave Cruise that sails out from the Otaru Canal and goes around the Marine Park. The well-organized cruise tour takes you to the best sightseeing spots by boat, so you can enjoy Hokkaido's vast sea. The video captures the cobalt blue ocean and the marvelous sunset. This article will delve into some of the charms of Otaru, Hokkaido's Blue Cave Cruise. About the Blue Cave Cruise Source :YouTube screenshot Sailing out from the Otaru Canal, the Blue Cave Cruise offers you a great experience to enjoy the vast sea of Hokkaido. Sea birds elegantly flying in the air, the stunning rocks structures... you'll probably even see a dolphin or shark on your way there as well. This coastal area was once called "Shu-ya" in Ainu language, which can be loosely translated as "Kettle Rock". The main attraction of the cruise is the blue cave located on the shore in Niseko-Shakotan-Otaru Kaigan Quasi National Park. When you enter the cave, you'll notice how the water turns turquoise blue. In the video, the boat enters the cave at 0:17. The awesome beauty of the blue pool inside the cave is certainly worth seeing. photo： Otaru's Blue cave entrance Located on the shore of Shakotan Peninsula, the blue cave was formed by strong sea waves. It's known for its apparent luminescent quality, imparted by the light passing through the openings. Its unique geographical formation and the angle of the sunlight flooding in create a series of magical scenes. Other marine activities, such as snorkeling, sea kayaking, boat cruises, and rafting are also offered in the area. When you hear "blue cave," it might be the Blue Grotto in Italy that first comes to mind. Japan, however, features several blue sea caves including the one in Otaru. Some other well known blue caves in Japan are: - Hachinoheana in Iwate Prefecture - Dogashima Sea Cave Skylight in Shizuoka Prefecture - Cape Maeda in Okinawa - San-in Coast National Park in Hyogo Prefecture. Highlights of the Blue Cave Cruise Source :YouTube screenshot The cruise offers you a great opportunity to take in the natural beauty of Hokkaido. You can enjoy a quiet time admiring the beautiful expanse of the sea, and the luxury of having the aromatic sea breeze fill your nose as it brushes your cheeks. If the weather is clear you can catch a gorgeous sunset, as seen in the video from 1:05. Sea birds, such as seagulls, black-tailed gull, and white-tailed sea eagles often fly around the cruise boat and you can enjoy feeding them as well. This is shown in the video at 0:58. Information About Hokkaido's Blue Cave Cruise Photo： Otaru station platform Hokkaido's Blue Cave Cruise is offered for a limited time between late spring and early autumn. Otaru port is 5 minutes by car and 13 minutes on foot from JR Otaru station, and the port has 10 free parking lots. The 80-minute cruise will take you to 10 different viewpoints. You need to make your reservation in advance either by phone or on their official website. As of April 2020, the tour costs 5500 Yen (~$51 USD) for Adults, and 3000 Yen (~$28 USD) for Children and Toddlers. Cold weather protection is offered on the cruise, but we recommend wrapping yourself well just in case. Summary of Hokkaido's Blue Cave Cruise Photo：Otaru, Blue Cave Cruise The video "Otaru, Hokkaido - Tsuusen's Original Blue Cave Cruise" introduces the Blue Cave Cruise in Hokkaido. The video is composed of beautiful images of the stunning turquoise sea and the clear blue pool glowing in a mysterious pitch-black cave. You'll definitely want to check it out after seeing the video! 【Tripadvisor】Blue Caves Hokkaido's Blue Cave Cruise

A world just like the one in the movie “Frozen”! Introducing the “Snow Crystal Museum” in Hokkaido! Before we begin, please watch the video [A snow princess, “Asahikawa museum reminding of the movie Frozen（雪のプリンセス 旭川の美術館「アナ雪に似てる」と人気に）” ] uploaded by “Mainichi Newspaper” posted above. Feel the atmosphere just like in “Frozen.” The atmosphere covers the entire museum. The movie “Frozen” is a popular Disney movie was released in 2013. And the fantastical museum in Hokkaido has recently attracted a lot of attention, mainly on SNS, as it is just like in the movie “Frozen.” What kind of tourist spot is the Snow Crystal Museum? Source :YouTube screenshot The Snow Crystal Museum in Asahikawa, Hokkaido was built in 1991, with the image of snow crystals in mind. The spiral staircase at 0:26 in the video has garnered a lot of attentions on social media platforms. People began making comments on review websites saying that the view in the museum reminded them of the castle in the movie “Frozen.” Since then, the annual number of visitors suddenly jumped to 80,000! A princess experience at the “Snow Crystal Museum”. Source :YouTube screenshot You can rent the gorgeous dresses and transform yourself into a princess at the Snow Crystal Museum in Hokkaido.It feels even more surreal when you take a picture at the castle entrance reminiscent of medieval Europe, or in the frozen corridors. If you're interested in the princess experience, please check out 0:52 in the video to see what it's like. Besides the photogenic, sparkling stained glass sector, there's also a theater, a resource center, a cafe, restaurants and a gift store are available. The “Snow Crystal Museum” is also a perfect place for a wedding! This museum is also suitable for a wedding, wedding photo venue, or various other events. Thanks to Hoshino resort and other hotels in the area, it makes for a very convenient location for visitors. An overview of Hokkaido's “Snow Crystal Museum”. Source :YouTube screenshot As shown in the video, the Snow Crystal Museum in Hokkaido is a popular Instagram spot as well. The facility has many features that a strikingly similar to the castle in “Frozen.” Asahikawa Zoo is another popular tourist spot in Asahikawa, Hokkaido, so try and stop by the Snow Crystal Museum after your visit to the zoo (or vice versa). If you like the movie “Frozen,” or you were fascinated by the video, please visit the Snow Crystal Museum in Hokkaido! ◆Snow Crystal Museum◆ 【Address】 3-1-1 Minamigaoka, Asahikawa, Hokkaido 【Operating Hours】9am - 5pm 【Entrance fee】Adult 800 yen, High school and University students 600 yen, Elementary, Middle school students 500 yen, over 65 400 yen 【Access】15 minutes by bus from JR Asahikawa Station, 10 minutes by car from Hokkaido Express way Asahikawa Takasu Interchange. 【Parking】 Available (Free) 【Telephone No】0166-736-7017 【Tripadvisor】Snow Crystal Museum https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g319103-d1424077-Reviews-Snow_Crystal_Museum-Asahikawa_Hokkaido.html

Goryokaku in Hakodate! This video, titled "Goryokaku, Hakodate" (函館　「五稜郭」 Goryokaku, Hakodate), introduces the historical building, Goryokaku in Hakodate. Shown at the beginning of the video, Goryokaku in Hakodate is a fortress characterized by its beautiful star-shape. If you go up to the observation deck of Goryokaku Tower, as shown at 1:34 in the video, you can see the beautiful star-shaped moat that surrounds Goryokaku Park. Don't forget to bring your camera, it'll look great on Instagram! About Goryokaku Photo：Goryokaku Goryokaku was built by the Tokugawa Shogunate to protect the Hakodate magistrates office, at the end of the Edo period. (1853 – 1868) The star-shaped Goryokaku is also called Ryohoshiki and it was designed by Takeda Ayasaburo. This is shown at 1:54 in the video. Goryokaku was called Kameda yakushodorui and Hakodate Onyakusho during its construction. It is also known as Yanagino Castle (柳野城, Yanagino-jyo) since there were a lot of willow trees in the area (柳, "yanagi," means willow in Japanese). The History of Goryokaku Photo：Goryokaku's stone walls Completed around the time of the Meiji Restoration, Goryokaku was occupied by the former shogunate's forces during the Battle of Hakodate, the final battle of the Boshin War, and became its headquarters. As you can see from 1:22 in the video, the earthwork, stone walls, and stone monuments still remain. Goryokaku was also used as parade ground for the army during the Meiji period (1868 to 1912). Highlights of Goryokaku Photo：Goryokaku, Winter Illumination Goryokaku has been the setting for many historical events since the end of the Edo period. In 1988, a TV drama titled "Goryokaku" was also produced. Goryokaku is a special national historic site, and has been designated a Hokkaido Heritage Site as the "Remains of Goryokaku and the Battle of Hakodate." It is currently managed by the city of Hakodate as a government-owned property. The magistrate’s office, which can be seen at 1:47 in the video, was reconstructed in 2010. You can see the inside, including the main hall, courtyard, and historical records, at 2:33 in the video. Goryokaku park also hosts a limited time illumination event, so we recommend lining up your visit with it if possible. Summary of Goryokaku ©Goryokaku-Tower Modifying Goryokaku, shown in the video, is a great place to enjoy seasonal scenery, including cherry blossoms in the spring, autumn colors in the fall, and snowy scenery in winter. In addition to Goryokaku, Hakodate also offers other pleasures such as the night view from Mt. Hakodate and eating Hakodate ramen, a specialty of the city. Incidentally, Tsuruoka Castle (龍岡城) in Saku City, Nagano is also designed in the shape of a star, so be sure to check it out as well! ◆Goryokaku Information◆ 【Address】44-2 Goryokakucho, Hakodate, Hokkaido 040-0001 【Access】15 minutes by a car, taxi, and bus from JR Hakodate Station 【Parking】None 【Tripadvisor】Goryokaku Park https://www.tripadvisor.com/ShowUserReviews-g298151-d1439713-r68353674-Goryokaku_Park-Hakodate_Hokkaido.html

北海道函館市の人気観光スポット「五稜郭」の桜紹介まとめ こちらの動画は「nippon.com」が公開した「Hakodate’s Cherry Blossoms Spring 2018 | nippon.com」です。 こちらの記事では、北海道函館市にある五稜郭の桜や箱館山からの夜景を紹介致します。 歴史ある日本の桜の名所と、古くから美しいと評価される夜景を、是非動画をご覧ください。 北海道函館市の人気観光スポット・五稜郭の歴史 五稜郭は、江戸時代末期に現在の函館市の中心地に建造されました。 もともとは外国船から箱館港を守るために建造されたようですが、戊辰戦争最後の戦場「箱館戦争」で旧幕府軍に占領され、木材不足のために一部が解体されて陸軍の訓練所として利用されるなどの紆余曲折がありました。 その後、1914年に五稜郭公園として一般開放され、現在は函館を代表する観光スポットとなっています。 1952年には北海道唯一の国指定特別史跡となりました。 桜の名所としての五稜郭 五稜郭は函館市の桜の名所としても非常に有名で、ソメイヨシノを中心に1,600本もの桜があり、毎年桜の季節になると函館市民や観光客で大いに賑わいます。 隣接する五稜郭タワーの展望台からその景色を見下ろすと、星形の城郭に沿って綺麗な桜のピンク色を見ることが出来ます。 是非、地上と展望台の両方から五稜郭の桜を楽しんでみてはいかがでしょうか。 北海道函館市で夜景を楽しむ 昼間に桜を楽しんだ後は、箱館山で美しい函館市街の夜景を楽しむことが出来ます。 箱館山の山頂からは、海に挟まれた函館の街が光のアーチを作り、海岸線を縁取っています。 函館の夜景は古くから世界三大夜景と言われ、最近でも旅行ガイド「ミシュラン・グリーンガイド・ジャポン」で三ツ星を獲得する美しい景色です。 何度見てもまた行きたくなるような特別な魅力があります。 北海道函館市の人気観光スポット五稜郭紹介まとめ 北海道函館市にある五稜郭公園の桜と箱館山からの夜景について紹介させて頂きました。 どちらも日本が誇る非常に美しく素晴らしい景色です。 是非動画をご覧になって頂き、北海道旅行の際は実際に足を運んでいただければと思います。

Introducing the video of Niseko Mt. Resort Grand Hirafu! This video, “Niseko Mt. Resort Grand HIRAFU 2019-20 Snow Season PV” released by “Niseko Mt. Resort Grand HIRAFU”, is an introductory video of Niseko Mt. Resort Grand Hirafu in Hokkaido. You will be able to enjoy activities such as skiing, snowboarding, and chair snowboarding at Niseko Mt. Resort Grand Hirafu. The snow quantity and quality of the courses are perfect and there is a sheer variety of courses and they are vast in width as well. Equipped with lifts, gondolas, jumping platforms, and the night ski area, you can comfortably ski on the powder snow course. What Kind of Ski Resort Is Niseko Mt. Resort Grand Hirafu? Photo：Niseko Mt. Resort Grand Hirafu, Hokkaido Niseko Mt. Resort Grand Hirafu, which is part of "Niseko United" that spreads out at the foot of Niseko Annupuri, is located in Kutchan, Abuta District, Hokkaido. Niseko Mt. Resort Grand Hirafu, located in the Hirafu area, has been attracting an increasing number of tourists, and is known for having the first night operation gondola in Japan in 1986. The Mountain Center Annex also opened in 2019. The Charm of Niseko Mt. Resort Grand Hirafu Photo：Mt. Yotei from Niseko Mt. Resort Grand Hirafu・Hokkaido Niseko Mt. Resort Grand Hirafu has an attractive course with a magnificent view that overlooks the majestic Mt. Yotei, one of the 100 Famous Mountains of Japan. There is an early morning skiing plan as well as night skiing plans. There's also a mountain center store, a kids park, and a kids room, so if you're coming with kids or forgot to pick up a few essentials, be sure to check these out. There are also fireworks at night, creating a fantastical atmosphere for you to enjoy. If you want to enjoy gourmet Hokkaido cuisine in the area, we recommend restaurants such as Hotel Niseko Alpen's Japanese cuisine "Shokusai Hirafu," "Lounge Cowbell" that sells western style cuisine, and "Restaurant Slalom." Tourist Information for Niseko Mt. Resort Grand Hirafu Photo：Niseko Area, Hokkaido The area around Niseko is also great for sightseeing outside of the skiing and snowboarding season. Consider checking out the NAC Niseko Adventure Center NAC Niseko Adventure Park and challenge yourself to activities, such as nature hiking! There are many hotels with hot springs in the Hirafu Onsenkyo area where Niseko Mt. Resort Grand Hirafu is located, so we recommend checking out all of the different accommodations offered and choosing one that suits your visit. Summary of Niseko Mt. Resort Grand Hirafu Photo：Niseko Mt. Resort Grand Hirafu, Hokkaido Niseko Mt. Resort Grand Hirafu is the perfect spot for those who want to enjoy action packed winter activities, like those shown in the video. You can check out what it's like to ski on the white slopes at 0:21, see snowboarding from 1:17, and chair snowboarding from 2:07 in the video. Hopefully this video has you pumped up and ready to go skiing and snowboarding at Niseko Mt. Resort Grand Hirafu. Make sure to check business hours, bus information, lift tickets, rental information, and live cameras before visiting! 【Official Website】Niseko Grand Hirafu [NISEKO Mt RESORT Grand HIRAFU]｜Official Website https://www.grand-hirafu.jp/winter/en/ 【Tripadvisor】Niseko Mt. Resort Grand Hirafu Ski Resort https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g1025639-d1424106-Reviews-Niseko_Mountain_Resort_Grand_Hirafu_Ski_Place-Kutchan_cho_Abuta_gun_Hokkaido.html

About Esashi, a "Japan Heritage" “Esashi, Sightseeing Promotional Video, Japan Heritage” (北海道江差町　観光ＰＲ動画（日本遺産)), is a video created by the “Esashi Municipal Department of Tourism.” Esashi, in the Hiyama District of Hokkaido, is the first place to be registered as a Japan Heritage in Hokkaido, and is also a place of scenic beauty. It lays on the coast of the Sea of Japan, with a population of 7,561. (2019, May). It is said that Esashi is the origin of Hokkaido's culture and thrived thanks to it's herring fishing during the Edo Period. In 2014, the mayor of Esashi became the youngest mayor in Japan at just 29 years of age. In this video, the attractions of Esashi are packed into just 3 minutes of footage. Enjoy the nature and history of Esashi, Hokkaido. What Are “Esashi Herring”? Source :YouTube screenshot Esashi is surrounded by the ocean, and herring trade was booming in the Edo period (1603-1867). This is explained at 0:26 in the video. At that time, herring was a good fertilizer. Esashi was busy, especially in May, because herring was a seasonal in May, and many ships from Edo (Tokyo) and Osaka, came to fish for them. Because of this, the popular phrase “Even Edo is not as busy as Esashi in May” was coined. Many of the leftover goods remain in the storehouses of merchants from the time, demonstrating their prosperity and showing just how successful the business was. Even now, herring soba is popular as a local dish in Esashi. Check out the video at 0:51 to see the merchant's warehouses. Tourist Attractions in Esashi! Source :YouTube screenshot There's Kamamome Island where ships called "Kitamaebune" docked during the herring fishing season, Itsukushima Shrine (厳島神社, Itsukushima jinjya), where sailors prayed for safety at sea, and the strangely shaped Heishi Rock (瓶子岩, Heishiiwa). There's a legend of Heishi Rock, that says when the sailors couldn’t catch any herring and were facing starvation, they poured divine water into the sea causing a swarm of herring to appear. Since then, every July a ceremony is held where they replace the "Shimenawa" (a rope used to cordon off consecrated areas or as a talisman against evil​) at Heishi Rock. This can be seen at 1:27 in the video. The Ubagami Grand Shrine (姥神大神宮, Ubagami Daijingu) which overlooks the port of Esashi, is famous for its summer festival, the Ubagami Grand Shrine Togyo Festival, which is said to be the oldest festival in Hokkaido. From 2:01, the festival song “Esashi Oiwake,” which has been passed down since the Edo Period, can be seen being performed. It has a nostalgic melody reminiscent of Edo and because of that, it's said that “Esashi Oiwake” is the king of folk songs. The herring fishing song “Soran Bushi” and “Hokkai Bonuta” also represent the culture of Hokkaido. We recommend visiting Esashi during the summer festival where you can check out the big floats and the Ohayashi band. Recommended Tourist Attractions Photo：Esashi Inishie Kaido Street There are many historic places and buildings that remain in Esashi, such as shrines, temples and houses. Walking down Inishie Kaido Street, next to the ocean, will take you to those historic places. For example, The Former Nakamura Family Merchant House, Yokoyama House, and the Esashi Town Historical Museum are all attractive spots that retain a good old-fashioned Japanese atmosphere. Visiting Esashicho Bunka Hall, Esashi Town Meeting Hall, Esashi Oiwake/Yama Museum, and the Esashi Town Historical Museum to learn about the history is another great way to enjoy oneself. The Kaiyo Maru from Netherlands can be seen near Kamome Island. It was a battleship of the Shogunate's navy at the end of the Edo Period. (About 1860) You also get a great view, surrounded by the ocean waves, when the weather is nice. Don't forget your camera! Summary of Esashi Photo：School of fish As you can see in the video, Esashi, Hokkaido is a fishing town with many and festivals and historic places left over from the old days of Japan. Enjoy seeing the attractions of Hokkaido through the video. At 2:36, we learn that, in 2017, a school of herring were seen for the first time in 104 years in Esashi, and a new light began to shine on Esashi once again. Esashi is a sort of hole-in-the-wall destination in Hokkaido, but has easy access from Hakodate by train or bus. If you're headed this way, we recommend checking out Hakodate as well! Also, if Esashi interests you, check out the local products of Hometown Tax Donation Program. There are attractive local products like queen crab and gasa shrimp. 【Official website】Esashi Town hall homepage https://www.hokkaido-esashi.jp/ 【Trip Advisor】Esashi https://www.tripadvisor.com/Tourism-g1120309-Esashi_cho_Hiyama_gun_Hokkaido-Vacations.html

Summer at Niseko Village! YouTube screenshot is a promotional video titled "Niseko Village summer season 2017," created by “Niseko Village1.” It introduces summer at Niseko Village, a very popular tourist destination in Hokkaido, located in Northern Japan. Niseko Village is a resort facility that offers various kind of activities such as hot springs, hotels, restaurants, shopping, and more. It is a ski resort during the winter and it is well-known for its powdery snow. Lots of tourists visit here to enjoy skiing and snowboarding during winter. During summer, Niseko village offers a variety of activities. It also has good reviews on review websites from satisfied customers who have visited it, which is no surprise considering its outstanding natural landscape and the myriad of activities to enjoy. This two-minute-long video introduces the different activities and events that you can enjoy during summer at Niseko Village. Get ready for an adventure! What is Niseko, Hokkaido? Photo：Japanese Shiba Cherry blossoms at Mt. Youtei “Niseko” was originally the name of the Ainu language, and it is also a town in Hokkaido. Niseko is located between “Niseko Annupuri mountain,” and the dormant volcano “Mt.Youtei.” Mt. Youtei was selected as one of the "Top 100 Famous Mountains of Japan," and is also called “Ezo Fuji.” You can see the beautiful view of Mt. Youtei from Niseko Village. Fun in the Sun at Niseko Village! Niseko Village is a tourist resort area that consists of “Niseko Village Ski resort,” “Hilton Niseko Village,” “The Green Leaf Niseko Village,” and “Niseko Village Golf Course.” The video shows viewers what Niseko Village offers, and some of the fun outdoor activities available during summer. The two golf courses that are available are Niseko Village Golf Course, and Niseko Golf Course. You can see the beautiful view of Mt. Youkei, while getting a view of Niseko's gorgeous scenery as you play golf. Check out the video at 0:09 to see a magnificent view of the golf course. Be sure to pack your clubs! Source :YouTube screenshot The fun places for kids include the nature experience area “Pure.” “Pure” provides different kinds of outdoor activities and you can spend the whole day exercising and frolicking in nature. The most popular attraction is “Tree Trekking,” which involves navigating ropes and suspension bridges to pass through the trees. “Rail slider,” and “Zip lining,” are also popular attractions at Niseko. Check out the video at 0:14 to see how excited the children are to try out these activities. You can also go cycling in Niseko and see the beautiful scenery with the fresh breeze flowing through your hair. Rafting is a thrilling activity where you can enjoy going down the rapids while getting a look at the beautiful scenery. There's also fishing, and you can pick apples and grapes in the area as well. Shopping, Gourmet Food, and Hot Springs at Niskeo Village Source :YouTube screenshot Niseko Village is a combination of a traditional Japanese townhouse, shopping facilities with outdoor equipment, and Hokkaido's cuisine and cafes. You can also try making soba noodles. This can be seen in the video at 1:22. “Hilton Niseko Village Onsen” offers a luxury open-air hot springs located next to a pond. The hot springs are open 24 hours, so you can get refreshed and revitalized at any time. There is also a spa, luxury massage, and treatment where you can relieve yourself of fatigue. Watch the video at 1:28 to learn more about the hot springs. “Nikoniko Niseko Village Festival” is a popular event that includes a Taiko(drums) performance, workshop, stage performance, as well as gourmet food and fireworks. You can see how exciting this event is from 1:30 in the video. Niseko Village Summary Source :YouTube screenshot Niseko Village is a large resort area in Hokkaido where you can enjoy summer activities, gourmet food, and hot springs. A dog park is also available for those traveling with pets. There are several events and festivals in Niseko that are sure to make your trip unforgettable. There's a lot to see in the video. Learn more about how to enjoy the summer at Niseko Village! We hope you enjoyed this article. We highly recommend Niseko Village to experience different activities and enjoy the nature of Hokkaido. Summer in Hokkaido is short, but there's are a lot to do! ◆Niseko Village◆ 【Address】 Higashiyama Onsen, Niseko, Abuda, Hokkaido 048-1592 【Access】About 3 hours by bus from Shin Chitose Airport 【Fees】Prices vary by facility. Please check the official website for more details. 【Hours】Hours varies depending on the facility, so please check the official website for more details. 【Closures】Closing days varies depending on the facility, so please check the official website. 【Parking】Available 【Phone number】 0136-44-2211 【Official Website】Niseko Village https://www.niseko-village.com/en/