The Traditional Japanese Instrument: Koto We recommend this article to anyone interested in learning about traditional Japanese craftsmanship, or those who enjoy traditional Japanese instruments. In this article we’ll take a look at the "Koto," a traditional Japanese instrument that has been handed down for hundreds of years. The video “Introduction to the Manufacturing Process of the Koto" (琴の製造過程の紹介), produced by "Japanese Music Navi" (邦楽なび), features the manufacturing process of the Koto manufacturing company "Mitsuya Koto Corporation," in Saitama. The beautiful sound of the Koto is the result of age-old craftsmanship. This is a brief overview not only of how to make a Koto, but also about the history and style of the Koto. The production process of the Koto introduced in the video is so beautiful one cannot help be entranced by its beautiful chords. The BGM in the video is “Yaozoku bukyoku” performed on a Guzheng (another type of Chinese zither) made by the Mitsuya Koto Corporation. Be sure to listen closely as you watch the video. The History of the Koto Photo：Woman playing the koto The Koto is a traditional Japanese musical instrument. In the "Kojiki" (古事記, Records of Ancient Matters), there are scenes describing the playing of the Koto. In fact, remnants of what appears to be a koto have been found in Yayoi period ruins dating back to the 10th century BC. It is thought to have been used as a magical instrument at that time. Normally a koto has 13 strings but there was another type of Koto with 17 strings in the Edo Period. There are various types of Japanese stringed instruments, or "zithers": "Koto," “Sou," "Yamatogoto," "Ichigen goto" (a one stringed zither), "Nigen goto" (a two stringed zither), "Shichigen goto," (a seven stringed zither) and the "Nagoya harp." People often confuse the "Koto" and "So," but they are actually quite different. The biggest difference is that the Sou has a movable pole, called a "pillar," to adjust the pitch of the strings, while the Koto does not have a pillar, and the pitch is solely determined by where the strings are pressed. Other Traditional Japanese instruments besides the Koto include: Shakuhachi, Miyadaiko, Kodaiko, Naruko, Mokugyo, Sansen, Shamisen, Kokyu and the Biwa. The Type of Music Played on the Koto The music played on the Koto is called "Soukyoku" (筝曲, lit. "Koto Music." There are various music types such as the Tsukushi school, Yatsuhashi school, Ikuta school, the Yamada school, and more. Each school performs unique koto music. In terms of appearance, each school differs in posture and how the instrument in played. The shape of the instruments also differs from one school to the next. How a Koto Is Made Source :YouTube screenshot The manufacturing process of Kotos by the Mitsuya Koto Corporation consists of three main processes: "sawing," "instepping," and "wrapping," and the materials used are paulownia, red wood, rosewood, and silk threads. ・Sawing (0:08) The bark is stripped from trees one by one by hand. The length is then adjusted and it is marked. Next, they are cut into the shape of a koto and dried. Some are said to be dried for several years. ・Instepping (0:52) Using a number of special tools such as a planer and chisels, the insteps are carefully carved in detail. As you can see in the video, when the carving is finished, the instep is branded with the craftsman's name. After that, the surface of the Koto is baked evenly. The charred grain of the Koto looks beautiful. ・Wrapping (2:15) In this process, decorative accessories are created. These accessories are embedded into the Koto. ・ Completion (3:41) The beautiful wood grain and hand-embedded ornaments adorn the koto, making it look like a work of art. These masterpieces are a sight to behold. Summary of the Koto Photo：Koto This video features the detailed process of making the koto as well as the craftsmanship of the artisans. Take a moment to marvel at the craftsmanship. Kotos are available at online retailers such as Amazon or Rakuten. High quality goods are sold at the price of several million yen (thousands of dollars). If you are interested in the Koto, considering taking lessons or watching online courses. There are various lessons for both veterans and beginners. 【Official Website】Mitsuya Koto Corporation http://www.mitsuyakoto.com/

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

About the Demonstrational "Dragon Beard's Candy" Video This video features footage of a professional making traditional dragon beard's candy by hand at a food stall in the Shin-Okubo area of Shinjuku, Tokyo (東京都新宿の新大久保). The delicate sweets, which are known for being difficult to make, are a traditional sweet in Korea which are also known by the name Kkul-tarae (クルタレ) or Ronshutan (ロンシュータン). In this video, you can see the techniques used to make dragon's beard candy and learn more about the history and characteristics of this traditional sweet. We hope you enjoy the video! What Is Dragon's Beard Candy? Source :YouTube screenshot Dragon's beard candy is a traditional sweet which has been eaten in countries such as China, Korea and Taiwan for hundreds of years. Its popularity has spread to other foreign countries, such as the US, Taiwan, Singapore, Canada and Hong Kong. Dragon beard's candy originated in China over 2,000 years ago, when the delicate treat was originally prepared for the emperor; however, it eventually came to be eaten by ordinary citizens and has been loved to this day. The main ingredient used to make dragon beard's candy is maltose syrup, known as "mugi mizuame" in Japanese. Cornstarch is also an essential ingredient. It's made by stretching a hard piece of candy over and over again to create a candy with a light and crunchy texture. The mildly sweet Dragon's beard candy is often given as a gift (lucky charm) in Seoul, Korea. Watch the Amazing Skills of This Professional Dragon Beard's Candy Maker in Shin-Okubo! Source :YouTube screenshot Each piece of dragon's beard candy is carefully handmade by craftsmen. As can be seen in the video, the street vendor first prepares the maltose syrup candy. He creates a hole in the hard candy and proceeds to stretch the candy using this hole. You can take a look at the stretching process throughout the video. The vendor then stretches the candy over and over while continually covering it in cornstarch until the threads of the candy reach the thickness of what is thought to resemble a dragon's beard. Only highly skilled professionals can make the candy incredibly thin without it breaking or snapping. A single piece of candy is stretched into an amazing 16,384 strands. From 4:26 in the video, the street vendor explains that this is the perfect number of strands to create the most pleasant melt-in-your-mouth texture. At 2:20 in the video, he begins to fold the candy to create the 16,384 strands, which he completes in roughly 35-40 seconds. The highlight of the video has to be when the professional dragon's beard maker shows off the finished product to the customers, at which point it looks beautifully smooth like threads of silk. Many customers are amazed by the look of the finished product! You can take a look at this in the video at 4:18. If you get a chance to see it up close, be sure to take a video of your own and share it with your friends! Source :YouTube screenshot After stretching out the candy, crushed peanuts, almonds, sesame seeds, or coconut can be added as a filling. One piece of candy costs approximately a few hundred yen (a couple bucks (USD)). There are very few people who know how to make the candy as the skills required are so difficult to master. Summary of Dragon Beard Candy There are food stalls in Shin-Okubo and Yokohama's Chinatown (横浜中華街, yokohamachuukagai) where you can watch dragon beard's candy being made right before your eyes. You can also buy dragon beard's candy online, sometimes sold under the name "Dragon Candy." For those interested in tasting and experiencing the delicate texture of dragon beard's candy, we highly recommended purchasing some and trying them out for yourself! Watching how the amazing dragon beard candy is made is guaranteed to pique your curiosity! Be sure to check it out in the video!

Video introduction of haniwa (clay figurines) and earthenware exhibited at the Tokyo National Museum, Taito-ku, Tokyo. This video is titled “Haniwa, Clayware, Bronze Bell and Clay Figures: The Tokyo National Museum（埴輪・土器・銅鐸・遮光器土偶　東京国立博物館）” and was created by “brianman1955”. The Tokyo National Museum is the oldest museum in Japan, located at Ueno Park in Taito ward. It used to be called the Empire Museum and Imperial Museum. There are main sections to the Museum: themain building, Hyokeikan, Toyokan, The Heisei building, the Horyuji treasure gallery, the Kuroda memorial hall, Kuromon and the garden. National treasures such as Japanese swords, armor, archaeological monuments, and works of art, including important cultural properties, are on display at the museum. There are about 120 thousand pieces in the collection. There are also special exhibitions like the Shosoin exhibition, the imperial throne gallery, and in 2019 there was a mummy exhibition, so there are a lot of things to see. The Formally Dressed Haniwa Woman Source :YouTube screenshot At the beginning of the video, the haniwa doll, “Woman in Formal Garments” is shown. It was found at Yokozuka, Toyoshirocho, Isesaki, Gunma prefecture, in Japan's Kanto region and is displayed at the Tokyo National Museum. This haniwa is dressed in a skirt, a jacket with simple sleeves and it is decorated with beads, earrings, a necklace, and bracelets, and Its hair is tied in a Shimada-style topknot with a comb inserted in it. This decorated haniwa is very valuable and it is said to be from Japan's Kofun or "tomb" period. (350-700 B.C.) Deep, "Lipped" Style Pottery Source :YouTube screenshot From 0:42 in the video, a deep, "lipped" style jar is shown. It was found at Kamifukuoka shell mound in Fukuoka, Fujiminoshi, of Saitama prefecture, in Japan's Kanto region. This clayware was found by Yamanouchi Sugao in 1937 and through research, it is presumed to be an early Jomon period Seikan style clayware. Bronze Bells Source :YouTube screenshot A Bronze bell is shown from 1:06 in the video. It was found at Nishihonjo, Minabe, Wakayama prefecture, in Japan's Kansai region and is estimated to be from the Yayoi period. (300 B.C. to 250 A.D.) Clay Figures? Source : YouTube screenshot From 1:50 in the video, a clay figure is introduced. It was found at Ebisuda, Tajiri Kabukuri, Osaki, Miyagi prefecture, in Japan's Tohoku region. It is said that clay figures were produced extensively in Japan's Tohoku region during the late Jomon period (~400 B.C.). An Overview of the Tokyo National Museum Photo：Tokyo National Museum The video about the Tokyo National Museum is only 2 minutes and 40 seconds long, but you can still feel the romance of history through the haniwa and clayware. There are other valuable materials such as records, pictures, and research journals displayed on permanent and special exhibitions at the museum. The research is making progress too, so we recommend giving the museum a visit. ◆The Tokyo National Museum◆ 【Address】13-9 Ueno Park, Taito, Tokyo, 110-8712 【Access】10 minute walk from JR Ueno Park exit and Uguisudani station south exit. Or, take a city loop bus and get off at “Tokyo National Museum.” 【Entrance fee】Adults 1,000 yen/ University students: 500 yen 【Closures】Mondays 【Parking】None 【Telephone No】03-3822-1111 【Official Website】Tokyo National Museum https://www.tnm.jp/?lang=en 【Tripadvisor】Tokyo National Museum https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g14134278-d320638-Reviews-Tokyo_National_Museum-Uenokoen_Taito_Tokyo_Tokyo_Prefecture_Kanto.html

Lotus and Lantern Floating in Shinobazuno Pond in Ueno Park, Taito Ward, Tokyo The video “TOKYO JAPAN Lotus Flowers in Tokyo Ueno park, lantern floating event at Shinobazu pond” (TOKYO JAPAN Lotus Flowers in Tokyo 上野公園・不忍池のハスと灯ろう流し 東京観光 花の名所案内), was created by “Discover Nippon.” Lotuses blooming on Shinobazu pond at Ueno park in Taito, Tokyo is a popular summer sight. We'll talk about the beautiful lotuses at Shinobazu pond as well as sightseeing information around the area. In the video, you can see the beautiful lotuses on Shinobazu pond and the lantern floating event along with relaxing music. Beautiful lotus flowers bloom at Shinobazunoike Pond! When is the best time to see them? Photo：Shinobazu pond at Ueno park Shinobazu Pond in Ueno Park is famous for its lotuses, which create a fantastic scene in the summer. It has a long history, and the lotuses in Ueno Park were once depicted in ukiyoe during the Edo period (1603-1868). Lotus flowers at Shinobazunoike Pond begin blooming in late June and can be enjoyed until late August. The best time to see them is usually in mid-July. Looking at Instagram posts and other sites, some flowers were still open in early July 2023, and many lotus flowers were at their best in late July. Lotus flowers close during the day. If you want to see beautiful open lotus flowers, the best time to visit is around 7:00 to 8:00 in the morning. Why not take pictures of the lotus flowers opening at sunrise? You can take a closer look at the flowers from the "Lotus observation zone." Every lotus is unique, and it's fun to take a close look at the differences between each flower. You can see the beautiful lotuses in the beginning of the video. The turtles swimming elegantly in the pond will help you forget your everyday troubles. Highlights, benefits, and red seal information for the octagonal building "Shinobazunoike Benten Hall There is a distinctive octagonal building at Shinobazunoike Pond. It is the Shinobazunoike Pond Oratory, with its green roof, vermilion-lacquered pillars, and white walls. The highlight of Shinobazunoike Rantendo is when the lotus flowers are in full bloom. The octagonal building standing in front of the lotus flowers is a mystical scene reminiscent of the Pure Land of Ultimate Bliss. The temple enshrines the god Benzaten, who is said to bring good luck for money. The enshrined Benten-sama is a hidden Buddha, so the temple is only open once a year. The temple is usually open only once a year, on the day of the "Mi-narune Grand Festival" held in September. In 2023, the Minarikane Grand Festival was held on September 20, and the opening of the temple was scheduled to last until September 24. Please check the official website of Shinobazunoike Oratorium for information on the 2024 festival. When is the "Nagare-toukai" (floating lantern festival) at Shinobazunoike Benten Hall? Photo：Toro Nagashi When the lotuses are in full bloom, the "Ueno Summer Festival" is held at Ueno park. Toro nagashi (paper lantern floating) produces an amazing atmosphere. The purpose of Toro nagashi in summer, is to send off the spirits of one's ancestors. The "Nagatono-e" lantern floating ceremony at Shinobazunoike Pond is usually held on July 17. Applications for the lanterns are accepted on the day of the event in front of the Benten-do Hall. The Floating Lantern Festival is introduced from 2:31 of the video. Everyone will be fascinated by the beauty of the lanterns floating on Shinobazunoike Pond at night. Recommended Route for Ueno Park Photo：Shinobazu pond, Ueno Park The lotuses blooming on the surface of Shinobazu pond is the epitome of the summer season. You can also use a paddle boat to explore the pond. It's nice to see the different seasons at Shinobazu pond as there are a variety of different features, including cherry blossoms and autumn leaves. Ueno park features several different museums with plenty to see. Ueno zoo is the oldest zoo in Japan, with over 3,000 animals, including the very popular pandas. There are also many hidden gems, such as museums and art galleries scattered throughout the city. Visit the Hanazono Inari Shrine or the Gojoten Shrine, 2 "Power Shrines" in the area. Summary of Lotuses and Lanterns at Shinobazu Pond In Ueno Park, there are many sightseeing spots where you can enjoy the unique Japanese atmosphere. Observe the beautiful flowers and visit the temples. Enjoy the video and see the beauty of Ueno Park, which is located right in the middle of the big city, Tokyo. ◆Ueno Park◆ 【Address】 Ikenohata 3-chome, Ueno Park, Taito-ku, Tokyo 【Access】A 2 minute walk from Ueno station on the JR, Tokyo Metro Ginza and Hibiya lines, and a 1 minute walk from Keisei Ueno station on the Keisei line. 【Hours】 5 am to 11 pm 【Telephone No.】03-3828-5644 【Tripadvisor】Shinobazu Pond https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g1066461-d3747622-Reviews-Shinobazu_Pond-Taito_Tokyo_Tokyo_Prefecture_Kanto.html

Learn About Noh Theatre With the Kanze School of Noh! This video, titled "Manners and Etiquette Handed Down Through Generations of the Kanze School of Noh｜nippon.com" was created by "nippon.com." Noh is a traditional performing art of Japan. It has a long history in Japan, much like Kabuki, tea ceremony, and Buyo. There are many schools of Noh, including the Kanze school of Noh featured in the video. Style and performance can vary greatly depending on the school that an actor belongs to. In this video, we'll introduce the Kanze school of Noh. If you're interested in traditional Japanese performing arts, we highly recommend checking out this article and video! The Ever Popular World of Noh Theatre Photo：Noh stage In this video, the 26th head of the Kanze School of Noh, Kiyokazu Kanze (観世清和), talks about Noh and the importance of passing on the art to next generation. At 2:38 in the video we see Saburouta Kanze (観世三郎太) performing as a heron, one of the highlights of the video! From 1:00 in the video, Kiyokazu Kanze talks about teaching his son Saburouta. Then, at 2:20, he goes on to say that "to learn Noh, it is not enough to simply imitate a performance, one must make the performance their own and elevate it to another level." From 3:53, he explains how constantly improving one's performance until their full potential is reached is the most important aspect of Noh. You can hear Kiyokazu Kanze talk about his feelings towards his son throughout the entirety of this 5 minute long video. A Closer Look at the Traditional Performing Art, Noh Photo：Noh "Nougaku" (能楽) is the general name given to the performing arts Noh and Kyogen (狂言). It is one of Japan's oldest traditional performing arts and is registered as an Intangible Cultural Asset. There are six important features of any Noh play: ・Shosa (所作): Performance ・Utai (謡): Chanting ・Hayashi (囃子): Musical accompaniment ・Men (面): Masks ・Shozoku (装束): Costumes ・Kodogu (小道具): Props Movements in Noh involve standing up straight with ones chin tucked in in a posture called "Kamae" (カマエ). Walking without lifting one's heels off the ground, called "Hakobi" (ハコビ), is another characteristic feature of Noh plays. Back when Noh was first being performed by Kan'ami (観阿弥) and Zeami (世阿弥) in the Muromachi period (1336 AD - 1573 AD), "Kamae" had yet to even be established. "Utai" refers to the lines or speech in a Noh play performed by the lead role called the "Shitekata" (シテ方). This is important in correctly portraying the feelings of the characters in the play. "Hayashi" refers to the musical accompaniment, which usually include a flute, small and large hand drums, and taiko drums (太鼓). In some cases, the taiko drum may not be used. The music is often played at a low volume as not to interfere with the performance. "Men" refers to the masks worn during a Noh play. There may be times when masks are not worn as well. "Shozoku" is the term used for Noh costumes. White is often worn by nobles, whereas young women are often dressed in red. Many props are used on stage during Noh performances. In contrast to the larger props which must be prepared well in advance of the performance, many small, simple props are often repurposed for each performance. More About the Kanze School of Noh Source :YouTube screenshot The Kanze school is but one of many different schools of Noh Theatre. Its name originates from the Yuzaki guild (結崎座) of Yamato Sarugaku (大和猿楽). "Kanze" was the childhood nickname of Kan'ami, the founder of Noh. The Sarugaku performances of Kan'ami Kiyotsugu were what led to the creation of the Kanze School. The Kanze School of Noh's traditions and performances continue even today. Summary of Japan's Noh Theatre Performers of the Kanze school of Noh are continually working hard to perfect their performances in the hope that the traditional art continues for generations to come. If you're interested in watching a Kanze school performance, we highly recommend watching the video to get a taste of Noh theatre! There more you learn about the family trees and schools of Noh, the more interesting it becomes! 【Official Website】Kanze School of Noh https://kanze.net/en/publics/index/

Video Introduction to the English Tour of the Imperial Palace, Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo This is an informational video released by "Tokyo MX" in 2018, introducing English tours of the Imperial Palace, a central city landmark that is gaining popularity among foreign visitors to Japan. Asakusa (浅草, Asakusa), Odaiba (お台場, Odaiba), Shibuya (渋谷, Shibuya) and Ueno (上野, Ueno) are famous for their central Tokyo attractions, but in recent years, the number of foreigners visiting the Imperial Palace has been on the rise. In response to the growing demand for inbound tours, the Imperial Household Agency, which oversees the Imperial Palace, has introduced English tours for foreigners for the first time, in addition to tours in Japanese. A Look at the Imperial Palace Photo：Near the palace The Imperial Palace is where the Emperor of Japan usually spends his time. It was called "Kyujo," "Kojo," and "Kogu" in the past. The current Imperial Palace, located in Tokyo's Chiyoda Ward (千代田区, Chiyodaku), is built around the ruins of Edo Castle and consists of the Imperial Palace, the residence of the Emperor, and a palace for various events and political affairs. The palace, introduced at 2:17 in the video includes seven buildings, including the Main Hall (正殿, Seiden), Homeiden State Banquet Hall (豊明殿, Homeiden), the Rensui Dining Room (連翠, Rensui), Chowaden Reception Hall (長和殿, Chowaden), Chigusa/Chidori no ma Hall (千種・千鳥の間,Chigusa・Chidorinoma), the Omote Gozasho North Building (表御座所北棟, Omotegozashokitato) and Omote Gozasho South Building (表御座所南棟, Omotegozashominamito). The Palace is surrounded by a moat, and the path along the moat is crowded with people on a daily basis. The English Tours of the Imperial Palace Source :YouTube screenshot The English-language tour will take you on a 2-kilometer course along the south side of the Palace. You can visit the Imperial Household Agency building and historical sites on foot with a guide from the Agency's staff. You can see an actual guide at 0:47 in the video. In this approximately one-hour tour, you can see a garden reminiscent of the Edo Period and the iron bridge at the main gate, along with Fujimi Tower(富士見櫓,Fujimiyagura) that stands atop a stone wall, and the palace where general New Year's ceremonies and other imperial events are held, as introduced at 1:29 in the video. The guide's explanations are easy to understand for foreign visitors to Japan, so don't be shy about joining in the tour. You can hear opinions of those who participated in the tour at 1:06 and 2:32 in the video. Summary of English Tours at the Imperial Palace Photo：Moat of the Imperial Palace The sights of the Imperial Palace shown in the video are definitely worth seeing in person. If you're thinking of applying for the English tour, be sure to visit the link at the bottom of this article to access the official site of the Imperial Palace. The site provides an overview of the English tour application process, a tour schedule, and a map of the facilities. ◆Imperial Palace Facility Information◆ 【Address】1-1 Chiyoda, Chiyoda City, Tokyo 100-8111 【Access】A 10-minute walk from Nijubashimae Station on the Chiyoda Subway Line, a 5-minute walk from Otemachi Station on the Mita Subway Line, a 5-minute walk from Takebashi Station on the Tozai Subway Line, and a 15-minute walk from JR Tokyo Station. 【Official Website】Imperial Household Agency: Information of the Facilities: Imperial Palace – Kyoto Imperial Palace https://sankan.kunaicho.go.jp/english/index.html 【Tripadvisor】Imperial Palace https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g1066443-d320050-Reviews-Imperial_Palace-Chiyoda_Tokyo_Tokyo_Prefecture_Kanto.html

Introduction of video taken at night at Senso-ji Temple in Taito-ku, Tokyo. This video, titled "Asakusa Senso-Ji Temple by Night --Sensoji --4K Ultra HD" released by "Tokyo Street View --Japan The Beautiful," introduces Sensoji Temple, a famous tourist destination in Japan, at night. Sensoji Temple, one of the most famous sightseeing destinations in Tokyo, is crowded with many tourists during the day. However, at night, Kaminarimon Gate and Nakamise-dori Street, two places that are representative of Sensoji Temple, are quiet and free of crowds. The quiet Nakamise-dori, can be seen at 0:54 in the video with relatively few visitors walking by. Take a closer look at the video and enjoy the fantastic atmosphere of Nakamise-dori and the beauty of Japanese temple architecture. A Closer Look at Sensoji Temple, a Famous Tourist Destination in Asakusa, Tokyo Photo：Sensoji Temple and Women Sensoji Temple is located in Asakusa, Taito, Tokyo. Sensoji Temple, a temple with ancient roots, having been built in the Heian period (794-1185), is also called "Asakusa Kannon" and is the oldest temple in Tokyo, attracting many tourists who visit for worship and sightseeing. During events at Sensoji Temple, such as Hatsumode, Osame-no-Kannon Goennichi, Shiman-rokusen-nichi, and Asakusa Shrine's Sanja Matsuri, it is especially crowded with visitors coming to worship. If you visit the Sensoji Temple, which is said to be blessed with the power to fulfill your heart's desires, be sure to get a shuin stamp to commemorate your visit. Also, don't forget to draw a rare Omikuji (fortune slip) of which 30% is said to contain unlucky fortunes! Overview of the Buildings on the Grounds of Sensoji Temple! Photo：Kaminarimon Gate in Asakusa, Tokyo At Sensoji Temple, you'll find the famous, large lantern of Kaminarimon Gate that is used for many Instagram photos. This can be seen at the beginning of the video. Don't miss the powerful gods of wind and thunder that are enshrined on the left and right sides of Kaminarimon Gate as well. After passing through Kaminarimon gate, you'll find the spacious Nakamise-dori, where you can eat gourmet food found only in Asakusa, such as buns and ningyo-yaki. If you enjoy finding gourmet food that can only be eaten in certain places then this is sure to be an unforgettable memory. Hozomon Gate, the Main Hall, and the five-storied pagoda, seen from 1:27 after the footage of Nakamise, are lit up in different seasons, creating mystical landscapes. In addition, be sure to check out Nitenmon Gate, Denboin, and Yogodo in the precincts. Summary of Sensoji Temple in Asakusa, Tokyo Photo：Sensoji Temple at night Although general temples and shrines in Japan have fixed visiting hours, you can enter the grounds of Sensoji Temple even at night. Sensoji Temple is easily accessible from the station, so we recommend stopping by Sensoji Temple at night after a day of sightseeing in Tokyo. When visiting Japan, be sure to enjoy the mystical scenery of the temple, as shown in the video! 【Official Website】Kannon Sect Asakusa Kannon Sensoji Temple Official Website https://www.senso-ji.jp/english/ 【Tripadvisor】Sensoji Temple https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g14134311-d320447-Reviews-Senso_ji_Temple-Asakusa_Taito_Tokyo_Tokyo_Prefecture_Kanto.html

Shibuya Gone Wild! Tokyo's Nightscape in a Masquerade of Colors and Costumes! Halloween has become one of October's main features in Japan, too, and in Tokyo, both Shibuya and Roppongi host a variety of Halloween events. TOKYObrah's video “HALLOWEEN IN TOKYO, JAPAN! Tokyo Halloween! Shibuya Party 4K（HALLOWEEN IN TOKYO, JAPAN! 東京ハロウィン! 渋谷パーティ 4K）” presents Shibuya’s Halloween celebrations from the eyes of a foreigner. Just watching the participants wearing their costumes is indeed a lot of fun! The Heart of Tokyo’s Halloween Is in Shibuya Photo：Halloween masquerade A crowd of dressed-up people piles up in front of the JR Shibuya train station, moving towards Shibuya Crossing. Even the Japanese, known for being shy, become open and friendly on Halloween, and people in the video often wave at the cameraman with a smile. Join Tokyo’s Halloween Parade! Source :YouTube screenshot When asked to pose for the video, many girls in their different costumes gave their best shot at it in spite of their shyness. The cameramen, too, who was dressed as Lionel Messi, managed to gather a crowd of people all dressed the same as him, with minimal effort. Wearing a costume makes it easier to open up with strangers, which is what makes Halloween so special. Other Foreigners Joined the Halloween Party, Too! Many foreigners gather in the city for Halloween, and some of them show up dressed as famous characters. The celebrations have been getting bigger and bigger every year, and this makes it easier for people from abroad to participate. Everybody chants with a smile “Happy Halloween!” and “Trick or Treat!” It’s Not Just a Halloween Costume Party! Source :YouTube screenshot Even among the more casual costumes there are some that really catch the eye, like the cute bunny girls or the TV characters from local comedy shows. The Jack Sparrow costume at 5:40 and 6:45 are really spectacular, and deserve a special mention. High quality costumes are one of the main attractions of Shibuya's Halloween, and often get featured in the news. Halloween’s Origins: The Harvest Festival The Jack-o'-lantern, Halloween’s omnipresent carved pumpkin, is a symbol everyone knows. Halloween was originally a religious celebration aimed at getting rid of the evil spirits during the harvest season, but as the years went by it shifted towards a more folkloristic event where kids dressed up in scary costumes and were rewarded with treats. In Japan, trick-or-treating was soon abandoned in favor of a costume party event for young people. Tokyo’s Halloween: Summary In Tokyo, lots of young people cosplay during the last weekend of October. As you can see from the video many people dressed as famous Japanese anime characters, while others chose more old-fashioned costumes, like witches and zombies. This is an event that anyone can enjoy, regardless of age or nationality. Even though the video conveys the excitement of Shibuya’s Halloween, it's even better to experience it in person. If you’re in Tokyo in October, make sure you don't miss it!

Japan's Temple & Shrine Carpenters This video, titled "In Japan, Repairing Buildings Without a Single Nail," was uploaded by "Great Big Story." It introduces a traditional Japanese temple and shrine carpenter, called "Miyadaiku" (宮大工) in Japanese, from Kamakura (鎌倉). Japanese temple and shrine carpenters specialize in temples and shrines and construct/repair traditional buildings. Some of the craftsmen work on the construction and repair of historical buildings, such as Japan's national treasures and world heritage sites. Japan's temple and shrine carpenters must possess a high-level of skill and knowledge to repair traditional buildings. A building repaired by Japan's Miyadaiku carpenters allows the beautiful architecture of Japan to remain the work of art that it is. This article covers some of the amazing traditional techniques of Japan's temple and shrine carpenters and their journey to becoming full-fledged craftsmen. Kigumi - A Traditional Carpentry Technique Used by Japan's Miyadaiku Carpenters Photo：Kigumi, traditional Japanese architecture Some wooden architecture in Japan, including temples and shrines, is built by assembling wooden materials together as though it were one large 3d puzzle. This method is called the "Kigumi" method, meaning "wooden framework." This impressive craftsmanship can be seen from 0:21 in the video. The traditional skill of framing and jointing wood, characterized by very precise cutting and coupling of wood, requires countless hours of training and experience as a Miyadaiku carpenter. Traditional Japanese architecture is made possible thanks to the high-quality craftsmanship of Japan's temple and shrine carpenters. The Long Road to Becoming a Miyadaiku Carpenter Photo：A wooden shrine, traditional Japanese architecture Acquiring the skills of a Miyadaiku carpenter requires on-the-job training, so the first step is to become an apprentice at a workshop or construction firm and learn the repair processes and traditional methods used by observing the skills of a master Miyadaiku carpenter up close. The history of Miyadaiku carpenters dates back more than a thousand years. In the past, Japan's temple and shrine carpenters were referred to as "Wataridaiku," and they lived in areas with many shrines and temples, working from one location to the next. Miyadaiku carpenters also repair historic World Heritage buildings and prominent national treasures, such as the one's you'd find in Kyoto. Thus, Miyadaiku carpenters are required to have advanced knowledge in various fields, not just architecture, but religious studies as well. Summary of Japan's Traditional Miyadaiku Carpenters Photo：A wooden temple being built Miya-Daiku carpenters have been repairing Japan's temples and shrines since ancient times with their advanced skills that can be used to construct wooden buildings without the use of nails. This traditional Japanese culture is handed down from one generation of craftsmen to the next. It's no secret that all of Japan's beautiful temples and shrines look like the amazing works of art they art thanks to the amazing craftsmanship of Japan's Miyadaiku carpenters.

Odawara Castle, a Fortress Feared for Its Impenetrability This is a promotional video for Odawara castle, titled "Odawara Castle PR Video 2013," brought to you by Cityodawara. Odawara castle is a popular tourist destination in Odawara city, Kanagawa prefecture (神奈川県, Kanagawaken), located in the Kanto region of Japan. It's popular with both locals and foreigner visitors alike. Odawara castle was the Odawara clan's stronghold from the Sengoku period until the Edo period and was known and feared for being impenetrable. It would become the domain's administrative headquarters for the Odawara clan. During the reign of the third generation feudal lord Hojo Ujiyasu, the castle underwent substantial military strengthening and became famous as an impenetrable castle after withstanding fierce attacks from both Uesugi Kenshin and Takeda Shingen. At the time of the Battle of Odawara, Hojo Ujimasa set up camp at the castle, and for 5 generations, up until the reign of Hojo Ujinao, his family remained in and protected the castle, and the area flourished as a political center in the southern Kanto region. During this short video we would like to introduce our most recommended sightseeing spots around Odawara castle. Looking at these images will make you feel truly as if you've traveled back in time and will give you a taste of life back in the Warring States period. Sightseeing Spots Around Odawara Castle, Home to the Hojo Clan Photo：Odawara Castle Maidashi Gate After the restoration (from July 2015 to April 2016), Odawara castle became a symbol of Odawara city and one of the city's most popular tourist attractions. Starting with the Castle Tower (天守閣, Tenshukaku), there are also many other places of historic significance, such as the Castle Park (小田原城跡公園, Odawarajouseki kouen), Castle Gate (常盤木門, Tokiwagimon), Copper Gate (銅門, Doumon), Maidashi Gate (馬出門, Umadashimon) and Ninomaru areas. The castle is also famous as a cherry blossom viewing spot in the spring. Throughout this video you can take a look inside the historic castle's grounds. The shot of the cherry blossom in full bloom and the Castle Tower at 1:20 is absolutely breathtaking. By far the most instagrammable spot in the area! In recent years, an increasing number of tourists visit the castle to collect a stamp of the Shogun's seal, called Go-shuin. There are also various museums and events to take part in, such as an armor wearing experience, the Tokiwagimon Samurai Museum (常盤木門SAMURAI館, Tokiwagimon Samurai kan), Odawara Castle History Museum (小田原城歴史見聞館, Odawarajou rekishi kenbunkan), as well as a children's playground to keep the kids entertained. For more detailed information on the facilities, please ask a staff member at the Ninomaru tourist office inside the castle grounds. You can also see the natural beauty of the changing seasons at Odawara castle throughout the video. From 1:37 in the video, you can take a look at the superb view from the Castle Tower overlooking the city, with the ocean in the backdrop. Popular Tourist Attractions in Kanagawa Prefecture: Odawara Castle Area Restaurant Guide Boiled fish paste products, such as kamaboko, are a speciality of the Odawara area. Honmaru tea house (本丸茶屋, Honmaru chaya) and shop, located inside the castle grounds, are popular lunch destinations among visitors, and a great spot to try the local cuisine. Here you can enjoy your lunch, surrounded by the beautiful scenery of the castle. In the vicinity of the castle you can also find many cafes, restaurants, and izakaya (Japanese bar/restaurant). We recommend taking a walk around the castle area and trying some of the local delicacies! Popular Tourist Attractions in Kanagawa Prefecture: Odawara Castle Area Restaurant Guide The following are a list of events which took place at Odawara Castle in 2019: Family History Tour (夏休み親子歴史教室, Natsuyasumi oyako rekishi kyoushitsu)(held during summer vacation), Fuma Ninja Class (風魔忍者教室, Fuuma ninja kyoushitsu), Projection Mapping World Tournament (プロジェクションマッピング世界大会, purojekushon mappingu sekaitaikai), Sengoku Gonbei Original Art Exhibition (センゴク権兵原画展, Sengokugonbei gengaten) and the Odawara Lantern Summer Festival (小田原ちょうちん夏祭り, Odawara chouchin natsumatsuri). For more details, please check the official Odawara Castle home page. Popular Tourist Attractions in Kanagawa Prefecture: Odawara Castle Introduction Summary Photo：Cherry Blossoms at Odawara Castle Odawara Castle can be accessed by a 10-minute walk from Odawara Castle Train Station (小田原城駅, Odawarajou eki). If you are travelling by car, you can reach Odawara castle from Ogikubo Interchange (荻窪IC, Ogikubo IC), Odawara Atsugi Road (小田原厚木道路, Odawara atsugidouro) in around 10 minutes. Please note that that there is no parking lot at Odawara Castle Park. Odawara castle is a tourist spot in Kanagawa prefecture that has grown equal in popularity to destinations such as Yokohama, Shonan, and Kamakura. Why not take a trip to Odawara Castle and experience some of Japan's rich cultural history? Be sure to enjoy the video, it may give you a taste of what it felt like to be a samurai warrior during the Warring States period! ◆Odawara Castle◆ 【Address】 Odawara Castle, Odawara City, Kanagawa Prefecture 250-0014 【Access】10-minute walk from Odawara station (小田原駅, Odawaraeki)(JR Eastern Japan) 【Hours】9:00～17:00 【Parking】No car park on site 【Telephone】0465-23-1373 【Official Website】Odawara Castle https://odawaracastle.com/ 【Tripadvisor】Odawara Castle https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g1021278-d1311266-Reviews-Odawara_Castle-Odawara_Kanagawa_Prefecture_Kanto.html

Nippon Sports Science University's Shudan Kodo This video, titled "Nippon Sport Science University Shudan Kodo 2017" (日体大 集団行動2017), is a recorded video of shudan kodo, uploaded by “nogutan2.” Some people might have heard or seen shudan kodo on TV or on a news website before. Shudan kodo is synchronized movements performed by students from Nippon Sports Science University. Students make perfect lines and march while changing formations and crossing paths without disturbing the lines. Check out the video of the world-class beautiful performance. Nippon Sports Science University's Historic Shudan Kodo Source :YouTube screenshot It all started about 40 years ago when the idea of shudan kodo was brought up at Nippon Sports Science University. Shudan kodo was started to practice disciplined movement, and every year the quality of the performance increases. You can hear the audience cheering during this beautiful performance of high quality shudan kodo. Several reactions from both Japan and different countries after they have seen the performance of shudan kodo. Many people say it's impressive, and some people even mention getting goose bumps from the performance. It's also very reminiscent of precise military marching. The Rigorous Practice of Shudan Kodo Source :YouTube screenshot Shudan kodo is not forced on students at Nippon Sports Science University. Students who are willing to participate gather and practice on a daily basis. There are actually too many students who are willing to join the club, therefore, auditions are held in order to decide who can participate. The current coach of shudan kodo at Nippon Science University is Nobuhiko Kiyohara. Since Kiyohara became coach 5 months ago, the total length of walk in the practice is said to have increased to over 1,000 km. Recently, more research towards the performance of shudan kodo is being conducted, and it has been evolving and becoming more precise and beautiful. At Nippon Sports Science University, a sports research presentation is held every other year to show the audience the results of practice. The performance of shudan kodo is one of the most popular performances at this demonstration. There is a world tour of shudan kodo as well, and it has become very popular globally. The Highlight of Shudan Kodo Source :YouTube screenshot You can see the beautiful performance born of the hard work of the students in this video. Make sure to also pay attention to 0:40 in the video to see the walking performance. The movement of the arms and swinging of the legs is perfectly aligned. Also, don't miss the skill of the performers crossing paths with each other while at a trot. There are so many more impressive performances in this 10 minutes video, so we recommend not skipping anything. Find your favorite performance! Summary of Shudan Kodo Shudan kodo continues to gain attention, as some other schools have already started new club activities like shudan kodo, such as Shudan Taisou (Gymnastics), and mass games. The presentation of Nippon Sport Science University's shudan kodo has been very popular and it's very difficult to purchase tickets. If you wish to watch the live performance of shudan kodo, we recommend purchasing tickets in advance. If you still haven't yet, be sure to check out the video to see the amazing performances of shudan kodo!

Indoor skydiving at “Flystation” The video introduces FlyStation in Koshigaya Lake Town. The video is titled “FlyStation Instructor Demonstration（FlyStationインストラクターデモンストレーション）”, and it was created by “infinitegazelle.” FlyStation offers the indoor attraction of skydiving. As you can see in the video at 1:24, you will float up high even though it is an indoor attraction. You can see how thrilling this attraction is from the video so definitely take a look! This article will talk about the thrilling indoor skydiving attraction "FlyStation". What is FlyStation? Photo：Skydiving Skydiving is a fun activity where you fall from the high in the sky and enjoy floating in the air. As you can see in the video, FlyStation enables you to enjoy skydiving in a completely indoor environment. With a strong winds up to 360 km/h from the bottom of the wind tunnel, you are able to float in the air. This is next-generation entertainment, and it has become very popular in the United States and Europe. And now, this popular attraction has finally arrived in Japan. In the wind tunnel with 19.8 meter height, this is excitement like you've never experienced before. All of the necessary equipment is included in the flight price. There is no need to prepare beforehand. FlyStation, pre-flight school is available to learn how to fly and professional instructors support one-on-one indoor flight. 4 year olds and older are eligible for indoor skydiving. Please note that the weight limit is less than 120 kg (264.5 lbs). With experienced instructors and operators to control the wind, this attraction completely safe. In this video, you can check out the different techniques such as floating up in the air, going upside down at 1:38, and moving every direction in the air. Where Is FlyStation and How Can I Access It? Photo：Koshigaya Lake Town FlyStation is located in Koshigaya Lake Town in Koshigaya, Saitama. It has easy access, being only a 12 minute walk from “Koshigaya Lake Town station” on Musashino line. There is only one location currently, but more locations in Yokohama, Osaka and Chiba will be opened soon. There are also different indoor skydiving locations in Nagoya and Fukuoka. Pricing for FlyStation Source :YouTube screenshot The length of 1 flight at FlyStation is 1 minute long. The flight ticket costs 4,500 yen (~$41 USD) for an adult and 4,200 yen (~$38 USD) for a child on weekdays, 5,000 yen (~$45.50 USD) for an adult and 4,700 yen (~$43 USD) for a child on weekends. A 200 yen (~$2 USD) discount will be applied when you visit on your birthday. The price is a bit high, but considering how much it costs to actually skydive for a minute, FlyStation is a lot cheaper than actual skydiving. It's also great for people who are worried about the dangers of skydiving, as it's totally safe. Summary of FlyStation Photo：Skydiving “FlyStation Instructor Demonstration” is a video by “infinitegazelle” demonstrating indoor skydiving at Koshigaya Lake Town. It has slowly been getting more attentions as it allows you to skydive indoors, and enjoy floating in the air. FlyStation will be the next tourist spot in Saitama. Come visit FlyStation and experience the excitement! We recommend you book in advance if you are visiting during a holiday week, summer vacation or on weekends. ◆Outline of FlyStation◆ 【Address】6-19-3 Koshigaya Lake Town, Saitama 【Access】12 minutes walk from the south exit of “Koshigaya Lake Town station” on JR Musashino line. 【Opening Hours】10:00～19:00 【Parking】Free parking available 【Phone Number】048-940-5010 【Official Website】Flystation/ Experience flying in the air with your kids‎ https://flystation.jp/?gclid=Cj0KCQiA-bjyBRCcARIsAFboWg2KpdOHjHoCjiLdOKiCfUXTWBsCkclR82R-ht7Jg3FPwfnOnC-5BsoaAhxREALw_wcB 【Official Website】AEON Lake Town https://www.aeon-laketown.jp/

The battlefield of Iwo Jima The video "Touring the battlefields of Iwo Jima = a scorching underground moat, and group burial ground（硫黄島の戦跡を巡る＝灼熱の地下壕、集団埋葬地）is by "時事通信トレンドニュース" (Current Trending News and Events). World War II left many scars in Japan. However, since many historical facts have been twisted, many people still do not know what the Pacific War and former Japanese army were like. One remnant of them is the tragic battlefield of Iwo Jima. In the Showa era, it was taught that the only decisive battle that took place on Japan's home soil was fought in Okinawa Prefecture. However, it was the small island of Iwo Jima (8.1 mi²) near the Ogasawara Islands, located in the Pacific Ocean, where (before the battle in Okinawa) a decisive land battle took place . Many civilians lived on Iwo Jima before the war, but due to the war, Iwo Jima became a fierce battleground, and many civilians who could not flee to the mainland in time, as well as Lieutenant General Tadashi Kuribayashi and many other soldiers, were killed in battle. The movie "Letters from Iwo Jima" starring Ken Watanabe and Kazunari Ninomiya of the band "Arashi" is one of the few movies that tells of the fierce battle of Iwo Jima. In this article, I will introduce the history of Iwo Jima along with a video introducing the island. What is Iwo Jima? Was the Iwo Jima landing plan the cornerstone of Japan's defeat? Photo：Iwo Jima Iwo Jima is one of Ogasawara's villages, and Ogasawara itself belongs to Tokyo. Eruptions continue to occur on the small volcanic island located approximately 1,200 km from the 23 wards of Tokyo. From 0:06 in the beginning of the video, you can see the mural created by the US military in the northern part of Iwo Jima. The mural depicts the famous scene of the Marines who landed on Iwo Jima setting the Stars and Stripes on Mt.Suribachi. Resentful that only these people were treated as heroes, other US military members shot at the mural. Being that it’s a battlefield, from 1:45 in the video we can see the battered Armstrong gun that was hit by bombs, as well as some of the un-exploded shells that have been excavated. And from 3:33 in the video, the remains of the abandoned Sherman tank that the US Army destroyed are shown on the battlefield. Source of photo :YouTube screenshot The Iwo Jima landing plan by the US Army was called Operation Detachment. From the beginning of the war, there was a clear difference between the Japanese and Allied forces. However, the geothermal heat of Iwo Jima, which is an active volcano, is high and it is said that the underground bunker had the appearance of scorching hell. At 0:40 in the video, we see one of the battlefields that was used as a hospital, and when entering the back of the Navy Medical Department trench, the geothermal heat causes the camera lens to fog in an instant, making you wonder just how hot it really is. In addition, it was reported that the toxic gas from the underwater volcano filled the assault trench and it was used as a defensive tactic when in danger of defeat. The former Japanese army, while exposed to the double hardships of the US military and the natural environment of Iwo Jima, persisted for about a month in the battle of Iwo Jima, which was said have been decided in only 3 days' time. Spending this much time on Iwo Jima shows that the island was an important base for the U.S. forces to capture if they wanted to take mainland Japan. The remains of the battle of Iwo Jima Photo：Iwo Jima Currently, the general public cannot visit Iwo Jima, but once a year there is a tour to see the battlefields of the three Iwo Jima islands. Open to the public are the mass burial grounds, the murals that were used as propaganda in the United States after the war and that are said to have been shot at by US soldiers, as well as the Osakayama artillery battery and the battlefield housing the ashes of war. At other times, the Maritime Self-Defense Force is stationed there, where they train and collect remains from the war, so it is a restricted area. Summary of the battlefield of Iwo Jima video Source of photo :YouTube screenshot After the war, Japan was under American occupation, and Iwo Jima became an area where the Japanese were not allowed to set foot until autonomy was restored. The surviving islanders were chased from their homes, and scattered all over the country, and even now, they can only return home to Iwo Jima once a year. As you can see from the video 2:14, the official document released by the United States states that 2,000 sets of ashes have been buried in the ashes containment area, but more than 60% of Iwo Jima's dead still rest on the island to this day. Learn the history of Japan from its scars, that we do not repeat the tragedies of war. 【Tripadvisor】Iwo Jima https://www.tripadvisor.com/Tourism-g1137885-Iwo_Jima_Tokyo_Prefecture_Kanto-Vacations.html

Video introduction of "Basketball Street" in Shibuya Center Street, Shibuya-ku, Tokyo This article focuses on one of the landmarks of Shibuya, "Basketball street"（渋谷の象徴的な通り”バスケットボールストリート”に着目。渋谷駅前交差点からセンター街を散策）. The 4K video navigates us through the famous pedestrian walkway starting from Shibuya Scramble. Shibuya features many shopping attractions such as Inokashira street, Bunkamura street or the Dougenzaka area which is always crammed with people, from shoppers, to teenagers, to tourists. Among them, Basketball street is the central hub for the teenage fashion culture known as "Shibuya Kei"(loosely translated as Shibuya style). The Features of Shibuya Center-Gai Basketball Street Photo：Shibuya Center Street Main Street Shibuya Center-gai Basketball street is a shopping street located in Udagawacho, Shibuya. Walking across the Shibuya Scramble after passing through the hustle and bustle of Shibuya Station Hachiko Exit, you are greeted by the entrance archway of Center-gai Basketball street. In 2011, the main street of Shibuya Center-gai was renamed to Basketball street as part of public safety improvement efforts. The main reason of the name change was to refresh the stereotype associated with the area where juvenile delinquents (known as "Teamer" or "Ganguro") used to roam around in groups. The new name reflects the local aim to develop an ideal, healthy hangout for the youth. The name, however, hasn't really taken off even among Japanese people yet. How to Enjoy Shibuya Center-Gai Basketball Street Photo：109 Shibuya Center-gai Basketball street is probably the busiest street in Japan. Many fashion department stores are lined up in the neighborhood, such as 109, Seibu Department Store, Parco and Tokyu hands. The street consists of a strange mix of shops like fast-food restaurants such as McDonald's, eateries including the ones specialized in ramen or bubble tea, big record stores like TSUTAYA, and entertainment spots catering to teenagers like arcades or photo booth machine stores (known as purikura machines). The Shibuya Scramble appears at the beginning of the video, and from 0:47, viewers are taken to Shibuya Center-gai Basketball street that runs between TSUTAYA and Taiseido Bookstore. Although 9 years has passed since the street was renamed, the entrance archway sign in the video still displays the old name, "Shibuya Center-gai". The video takes for a ride through the lively street. Events at Shibuya Center-Gai Basketball Street! Photo：Watching soccer Shibuya Center-gai Basketball street is filled with energy at the time of event such as Halloween, the New Year Countdown, or during big international sports event such as the World Cup. Some local events like Shibuya Center-gai Nebuta Festival also liven up the area. These events often generate a large amount waste. The local association maintains a clean district through its beautification efforts. The Summary of the Video Introduction of Shibuya Center-Gai Basketball Street Photo：Shibuya Scramble intersection The video introduced in this article portrays the liveliness of Shibuya Center-gai Basketball street. You can explore every corner of the street captured in the video and walk down the streets of Shibuya during your next visit to Japan! 【Tripadvisor】Shibuya Scramble https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g1066456-d4403399-Reviews-Shibuya_Crossing-Shibuya_Tokyo_Tokyo_Prefecture_Kanto.html

About Yumori Tanakaya at the Nasu-Shiobara Hot Springs Area of Tochigi Prefecture This video, titled "An Original Promotional Video of Yumori Tanakaya, Shiobara Hot Springs in Tochigi: A Very Well-Received inn With Outdoor Baths With an Incredible View and Tasty Grilled Dishes," (絶景渓流野天風呂と炉端料理が人気の宿【栃木県　塩原温泉　湯守田中屋オリジナルPV】), is a promotional video for Yumori Tanakaya, a Japanese-style inn in the Shiobara Onsen (hot springs) area of Tochigi Prefecture. The Japanese hot spring inn Yumori Tanakaya is located in Nikko National Park's Class 1 Special Zone and is a popular inn with a history dating back to 1884. Enjoy the splendor of the once-in-a-lifetime ryokan (Japanese-style inn), popular on review and comparison sites. The Healing Effects of the Shiobara Hot Springs Source :YouTube screenshot Shiobara Onsen is a hidden gem that has been flowing directly from the source since before the Edo Period (1603 – 1868). The spring is a sulfate hot spring of chloride and bicarbonate (sodium and calcium), and its effective against burns, gout, diabetic gallstones, cholecystitis, cuts, obesity, skin diseases, gynecological diseases, arteriosclerosis, constipation, and more. Enjoy a relaxing time at the natural hot springs of Shiobara Oami which have been flowing for 1,200 years. A luxurious Stay at the Fabulous Hot Springs of Yumori Tanakaya Photo：Ryuka Falls Promenade Yumori Tanakaya has a variety of facilities. The baths include a natural hot spring bath, a ravine bath, and a large bathhouse with a view. It's fun to enjoy touring the different baths, such as the mixed-baths, the riverbed bath, the cave bath, and the women-only beauty bath. You don't have to stay overnight to experience the outdoor baths and their vast amenities; you can casually stop by on a day trip as well. You'll have an excellent time enjoying the natural scenery while crossing the Ryuka Bridge, a 15 minute-walk from the inn (seen at 1:10 in the video). After enjoying the open-air baths and sightseeing around the area, relax in the Japanese style rooms. One of the charms of Yumori Tanakaya is that you can spend your time however you please. Yumori Tanakaya's Exquisite Cuisine Source :YouTube screenshot The best part of staying at any Japanese-style inn is surely savoring the delicious Japanese cuisine while relaxing in a yukata. You can enjoy a luxury dinner, made using rich, local ingredients, at the hotel (1:51). The made to order fireside dishes are a popular menu item, limited to eight groups a day. Another feature of Yumoriya is its extensive selection of local sake and wine. A Japanese banquet plan is also available, so we recommend gourmet trips for large groups. The lounge, serving fresh coffee, is shown at 1:27. The coffee is roasted in Ginza, Tokyo and “Forest Air,” is one of the top choices. Summary of Yumori Tanakaya The video shows the Instagrammable scenery of the nature-rich Nasu-Shiobara area and the luxurious time that can be had there. The popular onsen resort, Yumori Tanakaya, welcomes you! Room rates vary by season and plan, so we recommend that you book your room in advance on the official website or on a travel website so you can relax without any worry. Take a break from the daily grind and enjoy a relaxing stay at this luxury inn. ◆Yumori Tanakaya ◆ 【Address】6 Shiobara, Nasushiobara, Tochigi Prefecture 329-2921 【Access】Approximately 50 minutes by bus from Nasushiobara Station 【Parking Facilities】Free Parking Available for 30 Vehicles 【Telephone No】 +81-287-32-3232 【Tripadvisor】 Nasushiobara City https://www.tripadvisor.com/Tourism-g1021427-Nasushiobara_Tochigi_Prefecture_Kanto-Vacations.html

Princess Kako of Akishino's 20th Birthday "Princess Kako of Akishino Wearing a Tiara...20th Birthday" (佳子さま　“ティアラ姿”で・・・　20歳の誕生日)" is a news report on the 20th birthday of Princess Kako of Akishino, the second daughter of the Crown Prince and Princess Akishino. In 2014, on Princess Kako's 20th birthday, she received a Grand Cordon of the Order of the Precious Crown (宝冠大綬章, houkandaijushou) from the then emperor Akihito, at the Imperial Palace (皇居宮殿, koukyoukyuuden). More About Princess Kako of Akishino's Birthday Celebration Source :YouTube screenshot From 0:16 in the video, you can see the princess make an entrance wearing a beautiful platinum-diamond tiara. This gorgeous tiara is a unique item from Mikimoto Pearl Island. The five items of jewelry worn by the princess, including the tiara, earrings, necklace, bracelet and brooch, altogether cost 27,930,000 yen (approximately $250,000 USD). Princess Kako's Past and Special Skills Source :YouTube screenshot Princess Kako is the second daughter of Prince Fumihito and Princess Kiko and her personal emblem is the Hibiscus tiliaceus. Her older sister is Princess Mako and her younger brother is Prince Hisahito. She was born on December 29th, 1994. Princess Kako is proficient in English and in 2014, at 20 years of age, left Gakushuin University (学習院大学, gakushuuindaigaku) and entered ICU (the International Christian University) (国際基督教大学, kokusaikurisutokyoudaigaku), graduating in 2019. She has received awards for figure skating competitions in the past. When she was a junior high school student, she also performed a dance at the school festival. Princess Kako of Akishino's First Press Conference Source :YouTube screenshot In this video you can see Princess Kako on her birthday wearing her tiara, being greeted by the emperor and empress of Japan. From 1:39 you can see the press conference that was held to mark her birthday and coming of age. Princess Kako looked a little nervous facing her first press conference since becoming 20 years old, however she is now perfectly capable of talking about her aspirations and ideas in public. Summary of Princess Kako of Akishino's 20th Birthday Since her 20th birthday in 2014, Princess Kako has attended several events at the palace such as New Year's celebrations and banquets. More recently, at the enthronement of the new emperor, she made news wearing a beautiful 12-layered ceremonial kimono called "Juunihitoe". The future efforts of the beautiful princess, who turned 25 years old in 2019, are guaranteed to continue to attract lots of attention.

The Popular Water Bus "Himiko" in Tokyo! This video, titled "HIMIKO -2016-｜Water-Bus (Asakusa-Odaiba) [4K]" (ヒミコ 「HIMIKO」-2016- | 水上バス ( 浅草- お台場 ) 【4K】), publicized by "miyaga1," shows the popular, futuristic water-bus that travels between Asakusa and Odaiba, as well as surrounding tourist spots. "Himiko," introduced in the video, is a water bus run by Tokyo Cruise. The water bus Himiko, where you can enjoy a lovely voyage visiting famous places in Tokyo, is quickly gaining popularity among tourists. The Water Bus "Himiko" Source :YouTube screenshot The water bus Himiko, introduced in the video, has a distinctive teardrop shape. The futuristic form of the boat makes it look like a spaceship. You can see Himiko in its entirety at 2:33 in the video. This popular water bus "Himiko" was designed by famous manga artist Reiji Matsumoto, who is known as a master of the manga world. The Himiko began service in 2004 and has a capacity of 160 passengers. Onboard Himiko, you'll hear an onboard broadcast by Hoshino Tetsuro, Maetel, and the conductor from Reiji Matsumoto's masterpiece, "Galaxy Express 999. You can see the interior of Himiko and the on-board announcements at 4:23 in the video. All Aboard the Himiko! Source :YouTube screenshot The water bus "Himiko," introduced in the video, is great for those looking for a different way to experience the major sightseeing spots of Tokyo. Himiko starts from and returns to Azuma Bridge, passing Odaiba Kaihin Koen and Toyosu alongside the way. You can see Tokyo Sky Tree, shown at 0:41 in the video, and Rainbow Bridge, shown at 6:05 in the video, on the water bus route. Enjoy a refreshing cruise through scenic spots in Tokyo, including Ryogoku, Takeshiba, Hamarikyu, Hirai and Aomi. Shown at 8:35 in the video, we recommend getting off at Odaiba to enjoy the Statue of Liberty, a Life-size Gundam, a statue of Shenron from Dragonball, as well as the delicious food in the area. In addition to Himiko, Tokyo Cruise operates other types of watercrafts, such as the Hotaluna, Emeraldas, and Ryoma, so be sure to hop on board if you have the time! Summary of "Himiko" and Cruises Through Tokyo Source :YouTube screenshot Boarding the beautiful Himiko will have you feeling like you're on a spaceship! Himiko can be rented out for personal use or chartered. Also, event cruises are held as well, so be sure to keep your eyes peeled for these. For more information about timetables and prices, or to book a cruise, please visit the official website. ◆Water Bus Himiko Line Facility Information◆ 【Address】1-1-1 Hanakawado, Taito-ku, Tokyo 【Access】A 1-minute walk from Tobu Skytree Line Asakusa Station and Tokyo Metro Ginza Line Asakusa Station 【Telephone】0120-977-311 【Official Website】Himiko |Tokyo Cruise https://www.suijobus.co.jp/en/

Video introduction of the broom work process at Arai Broom Shop in Edogawa-ku, Tokyo This video, produced by "edocore4117", shows the process of creating a traditional Edo Houki (broom), designated a Cultural Property by Edogawa Ward (江戸川区 : Edogawa-ku), by Katsumi Arai, a Japanese broom maker. Katsumi Arai himself is the second generation to make Edo Houki, a traditional craft handed down from the Edo period, and has been making it for 60 years. At present, there are only two broom craftsmen in Tokyo, Katsumi Arai and the craftsman from the old Edo Houki shop, Shirakiya Denbei. This video features broom maker Katsumi Arai working in peaceful silence. His handiwork and craftsmanship is remarkable. Take a look at the techniques of a craftsman who has preserved a tradition handed down from one generation to the next. What Are Edo Houki? Source :YouTube screenshot Edo Houki are said to have originated near the end of the Edo period (1603-1868) when the Shirokiya Nakamura Denbei Store, founded in 1830, began making brooms from a plant called "Houkimorokoshi." Since then, Edo Houki makers have improved their brooms to be lighter and more comfortable to use. There are two type of brooms: “Niwa Houki,” for outdoor use, and “Zashiki Houki,” for indoor use. Both types of brooms were must-have items back in the day. There used to be 40 to 50 Edo Houki shops in Edogawa-ward, but the number of shops has decreased as of late due to vacuum cleaners being more popular, as well as there being fewer Japanese style rooms. The historical culture of traditional craftsmanship, that has continued for nearly 200 years, has been handed down to Mr. Arai Katsumi. How to Make Edo Houki This video clip features the manufacturing process of an Edo Houki. First, broom makers separate the houkimorokoshi which will be used to make the brooms, into high-grade and low-grade. This sorting process is very time-consuming, as it has a significant effect on the finished product. After the sorting process is completed, they soak the houkimorokoshi in water to soften the tips of the ears. The process involves wrapping hemp thread around the stems and tying them tightly. Source :YouTube screenshot After that, a certain amount of houki grasses are bundled together. Two or more bundles are threaded onto a skewer and wound together. You can see this crafting process in the video at 0:21. The thickness of houki grasses varies widely. Whether or not the appropriate materials are selected depends entirely on the skills of the craftsman. It may seem easy, but it requires a lot of experience and skill. After they're tied, a long handle is attached to them. You can see this scene in the footage from 4:55. The craftsman uses a string and wire to attach a long handle. The knot is tied tightly so that it will not come off, and sometimes it is adjusted by tapping it with a hammer. You can see how difficult this is in the footage from 5:54. All process, including Kushigata (the process of decorating it) are conducted by the craftsman. Every step shows the skills of a master craftsman who has inherited the culture of a traditional craft. Thoughts of an Edo Houki Craftsman Making Edo Houki requires a lot of physical strength. According to Katsumi Arai, while he is called a craftsman, he does not see himself as one. Tough Times for Edo Houki Photo：Roomba During the 1960s and the 1970s, electric vacuum cleaners began to become popular, and today, automatic vacuum cleaners such as the Roomba are available. The demand for newer, electric, and even automatic cleaning devices, created an unfavorable market for the traditional Japanese craft. However, in recent years, Edo Houki have been given as gifts, presents, and souvenirs by those overseas, and the commercial value of Edo Houki has increased to the point where it is now considered a work of art and traditional craft. Summary of Edo Houki What are the advantages of using a traditional Edo Houki in the age of modern vacuum cleaners? First, it's quiet. Second, it's effective at removing dust from tatami. And lastly, you can feel the traditional culture of the Edo Period in its handle. Because of this, the Edo Houki, which is guaranteed to last 10 years, is being reevaluated by many. If you're interested in Edo Houki, be sure to check out some online shopping sites like Amazon or Rakuten. The price range of Edo Houki ranges anywhere from several thousand yen to up to 10,000 yen (~$10-$100 USD). Give the traditional Edo craft a try!

Video introduction of "Ameyoko" shopping street in Taito Ward, Tokyo This video, titled "Ameyoko・Tokyo Sightseeing - TOKIYO travel" (【アメ横・東京観光　TOKIYO travel】), was produced by "Sunshine Channel." It was filmed while walking around "Ameyoko," a shopping street in Ueno, Tokyo. Ameyoko is a shopping area with about 400 stores, centered on a 500m underpass from Ueno Station to Okachimachi Station on the JR Yamanote Line. A variety of genres are found in the store, making it a very popular tourist spot not only for the Japanese but for tourists as well. This video was shot for about 7 minutes while entering the shopping area from the center building on the Ueno station side, looking into the shops. The footage will make you feel as if you are walking beside the Ameyoko, and you're sure to want to give it a visit. What is Ameyoko? Photo：Ameyoko Ameyoko, located in Taito ward, Tokyo, is a valuable shopping street with a history that developed from the black market after the war. Ameyoko is formally called "Ameya Yokocho", and it is said that its origin comes from the fact that there were many candy shops and that there were many imported goods from the United States. It is also known as a discount city, and at the end of the year, many people come to the market for fresh food such as New Year's goods and crab. The transportation access is a short distance from the nearest stations: Ueno Station and Okachimachi Station, and it is a convenient location because Ueno Station also has a subway. Stores at Ameyoko Source :YouTube screenshot As you can see in the video, there are a variety of stores randomly throughout Ameyoko, these include restaurants as well, so if you want to take a break from shopping you can sit down and grab a bite to eat. They buy a cute panda meat bun at 3:31 in the video. There are many shops dealing with fresh foods, seasonal ingredients, clothing and shoes, specialty shops such as sweets, used clothes, jewelry, sports goods, brand goods stores, long-established dry goods stores, processed food stores, and there are also souvenir shops. In addition, trendy fashion, general stores and tapioca drink stores are also dotted about the area, and there are various unique atmospheres for workers and visitors. Many izakaya and other eateries are also shown throughout the video. You can also enjoy lunch at happy hour as well. Programs often feature Shimura Shoten's Chocolate Tackle, which can be seen from 2:01 in the video, Hyakkaen, which sells fresh cut fruits, Kojimaya, a dried fruit shop, as well as restaurants like "Minatoya" and so on. Opening hours vary by store. Shopping at Ameyoko Summed Up Photo：[Tokyo] Ushino Park Shinobazu Pond and Sakura "Ameyoko / Tokyo Sightseeing - TOKIYO travel" introduces the vibrant atmosphere and shops of Ameyoko, a popular sightseeing spot in Tokyo. If you're wondering what kind of place Ameyoko is, be sure to check out the video. At Ueno Station, where Ameyoko is located, there is Ueno Zoo, famous for its pandas, Shinobazu Pond, and Ueno Onshi Park, known for its art museums. In this article, we introduced the access, food, and store information of Ameyoko. The video walks down the main street, but there are many shops under the overpass and inside buildings as well, so you can enjoy Ameyoko's unique atmosphere. If you're planning on coming to Ameyoko, don't be shy and remember to explore all the little nooks and crannies hidden throughout the street.

Video introduction of Arai-yu, a public bathhouse in Sumida-ku, Tokyo This 4 minute long video titled “Arai-Yu Sento - Tokyo（Arai-Yu Sento - Tokyo - 荒井湯 - 4K Ultra HD）“ features what the sento, “Arai-yu” in Sumida-ku (墨田区：Sumida ward) near the Tokyo Sky Tree is. While there are many natural hot springs and super sento in Japan, traditional public baths where you can enjoy Japan's unique bathing culture are also very popular. Watch the video and experience the feeling of being healed in a traditional Japanese public bath. The History of Japanese Sento Source :YouTube screenshot Sento is a paid public bath with a boiler and the beginning of its history dates back to the Heian period (794 to 1185 ). Public bathhouses have long been popular with the public, and from the Edo period (1603 to 1863) onward, they flourished as a social gathering place for the common people. There used to be more than 100 public bathhouses in Sumida, but the number of these bathhouses has been decreasing in recent years. What Is Araiyu? Source :YouTube screenshot Araiyu, a public bathhouse in Asakusa, has the same traditional architectural style as Japanese shrines, and is characterized by its tall chimney. You can see this traditional architecture in the footage from 0:09. The interior is decorated with paint and tile designs by bathhouse painters. The murals of Hokusai Katsushika, "The Great Wave Off Kanagawa" in the men's bath, and "36 Views of Mount Fuji" in the women's bath, are a must-see. You can also see these magnificent paintings in the bathrooms by watching the footage from 3:50. Let’s Visit a Traditional Japanese Sento! Source :YouTube screenshot Almost all Japanese feel nostalgic when they visit a sento. Recently, some bathing facilities have English-speaking receptionists for foreign tourists visiting a sento. There are Germanium baths, jet baths, ultrasonic baths, medicinal baths and more, so you'll never get bored of them. Some sento offer a sauna as well if you're into that. The Rules and Manners of Japan's Sento Source :YouTube screenshot There are important rules or manners for public baths, as they're used by many people. ・Before entering a bath, wash your body. ・Keep your hair up. ・Do not wash your body in the baths. ・Do not take a towel into a bathtub. ・The baths are shared use. ・If you sweat, wash off your sweat before entering a bathtub. Please make sure to follow these rules and manners and enjoy your time. Summary of Japan's Sento Source :YouTube screenshot After checking out this video of the atmosphere of Sumida's Araiyu, you'll definitely want to give it a visit. It's a great place to relax. Some of Japan's public baths are open 24 hours, but it's a good idea to check the days and hours of operation, as well as prices before visiting. ◆Araiyu◆ 【Address】2-8-7 Honjo Sumida 130-0004 【Access】10 minutes walking from “Honjo Azuma-bashi” station off the Toei Asakusa line 【Entrance fee】Adults (12+) 470 yen (* As of November, 2019) 【Hours】15:30 to 24:00 【Telephone No】03-3622-0740 【Tripadvisor】Araiyu https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g1066459-d8008153-Reviews-Araiyu-Sumida_Tokyo_Tokyo_Prefecture_Kanto.html

Rare Footage of Tokyo From More Than 100 Years Ago! This video, titled "Footage of Tokyo From More Than 100 Years Ago (With Sound)" (東京の昔の映像　（音声あり）), was uploaded by "Final A." Have you ever wondered what life was like in Tokyo more than 100 years ago? Perhaps you've seen pictures in textbooks or studied it at school, but probably very few people have seen actual footage of what life was like back then. In this video, you can get a glimpse of what life was like in Tokyo around 1913-1915. The Lives of Tokyoites More Than 100 Years Ago Source :YouTube screenshot From 0:04 in the video, you can see many people walking around dressed in hakama (袴). You can also see children playing with a ball called a "mari" (毬) from 2:59. At the time, it was common for children to spend their days playing with traditional toys such as a mari (temari). As you can tell from the video, at the time, the majority of people were dressed in what would be considered traditional Japanese style clothing today. The streets were lit using fixed paper lanterns called "andon" (行灯). The population of Tokyo at the time was approximately 3 million. The population of the whole of Japan was approximately 50 million, less than half of what it is today. From 2:42 in the video, you can see how the area around Senso-ji temple (浅草寺) in Asakusa (浅草), Tokyo was just as busy then as it is nowadays. Tokyo From 1913-1915 Source :YouTube screenshot The Taisho period lasted only 15 years (1912-1926) but is well known because of the Great Kanto Earthquake (関東大震災). Many other important events also took place during the same time period. The most famous of those being World War I which started in 1913. In 1914, the first department store "Mitsukoshi Gofukuten" (三越呉服店) (currently known as Nihombashi Mitsukoshi Main Store) opened in Japan, and the familiar lion statue, as well as escalators and elevators quickly became the talk of the town. At the time, the toy industry and product development were flourishing and it was the beginning of modernization in Japan. Tokyo Station (東京駅) was also opened in 1914. The station must have been very crowded at the time due to the large number of passengers travelling to and from the station. More About the History of Tokyo Source :YouTube screenshot In 1886, Tokyo prefecture (currently known in Japanese as Tokyo-to (東京都) was given the name Tokyo-fu (東京府). From the beginning of the Taisho period, there was a dramatic increase in the population of Tokyo. During the Meiji period (明治時代, meijijidai), the Tokyo area changed a great deal as Japan changed from being a country of agriculture to a country focused on industry. In the video, you can see that the most common mode of transportation was the rickshaw, however, the rickshaw was gradually replaced with bicycles and cars. At the time, there were many water wells in Tokyo and the water quality was also very good. Summary of Tokyo From 100 Years Ago Even if you aren't Japanese it's easy to feel a sense of nostalgia from this video. This rare footage offers a glimpse at what life was like over 100 years ago in Japan. It's invaluable footage that really allows us to see how far Japan and the rest of the world has come in such a short time.

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

Night view video introduction of Sensoji Temple in Taito Ward, Tokyo This video, titled "Asakusa Sensoji Temple at Night" (浅草雷門 昼間とは別世界 浅草寺の夜景 - Asakusa Sensoji Temple at Night), was created by "AQUA Geo Graphic." The video shows scenes of Sensoji Temple at night. Sensoji Temple is located in Tokyo's Taito Ward (台東区, taito-ku). Every day from sunset to around 11:00 in the evening, the Kaminarimon Gate (雷門, kaminarimon), Nakamise Shopping Street (仲見世, nakamise), and the main hall of Sensoji Temple are lit up beautifully. Even at night, visitors are allowed to worship at the brilliant red Kaminarimon Gate and the temple itself. Many people pop in to visit after checking in at a hotel, or while waiting for the bullet train. Nighttime Events at Sensoji Temple Photo：Nakamise Street at night, Tokyo Sensoji Temple is hosting a light-up event to commemorate the 400th anniversary of the Edo Period, aiming to promote the image of Asakusa as an international city under the slogan "Asakusa - Shining in the 21st Century" (輝く21世紀の浅草). The main hall, Hozomon Gate, and the five-storied pagoda of Sensoji Temple are lit up, creating a mystical, breathtaking night view. As seen from 2:13 in the video, on Nakamise Shopping Street, there are also painted shutter murals known as "asakusa emaki (浅草絵巻)" painted on the gates to the shops. The night view of Sensoji Temple, with Tokyo Skytree soaring into the sky opposite Nakamise Shopping Street, coupled with beautiful weeping cherry blossoms, is great for taking Instagram photos, so be sure to bring along your camera when exploring the area. More About Sensoji Temple Photo：Sensoji Temple Kaminaramon, Asakusa, Tokyo Sensoji Temple is known for being the oldest temple in Tokyo, on top of having huge numbers of visitors (ranked within the top 10 temples in all of Japan). The temple belongs to the Sho-Kannon Sect and is dedicated to Kannon Bosatsu (the Bodhisattva of compassion), with a statue of the deity enshrined within Kannon Hall. Sensoji Temple is the only temple in Tokyo to be part of the "Bando Sanjusankasho" (The Bando 33 Kannon Pilgrimage) (#13), a series of 33 Buddhist temples in Eastern Japan sacred to Goddess Kannon. Additionally, Sensoji Temple is also the only Temple in Tokyo to be part of the "Sites of Edo Sacred to Kannon Bosatsu" (江戸三十三箇所観音霊場の札所) (#1). Sensoji Temple's omikuji are known to contain many bad luck fortunes, but why not test your luck?! We also recommend purchasing an omamori, a protective charm. Summary of Sensoji Temple at Night Photo：Sensoji Temple, Asakusa, Tokyo As you can see, Sensoji Temple is a must-visit spot not only during the day, but also at night! As times vary by season, be sure to check out times for the light-up event before visiting. There are also many restaurants near Sensoji that serve delicious food! Kamiya Bar (神谷バー), Asakusa ROX (浅草ROXまつり湯), and Hoppy Street (ホッピー通り), are a few popular spots. In the video, you can also see Tokyo Skytree, another popular tourist attraction in Tokyo. The beauty of the crossover between "new" and "old" in Tokyo is one of the highlights of the video! ◆Sensoji Temple｜Facility Overview◆ 【Address】2-3-1 Asakusa, Taito Ward, Tokyo 【Access】A 5-minutes walk from Asakusa Station off Toei Asakusa Subway Line' Tobu Skytree Line, Tokyo Metro Ginza Line, and Tsukuba Express. 【Hours】Open 24 hours (The Main Hall is open from 6:00 - 17:00) 【Parking】None 【Telephone】03-3842-0181 【Official Website】Sho-Kannon Sect Asakusa Kannon Sensoji Temple Official Site https://www.senso-ji.jp/english/ 【Tripadvisor】Sensoji Temple https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g14134311-d320447-Reviews-Senso_ji_Temple-Asakusa_Taito_Tokyo_Tokyo_Prefecture_Kanto.html