Introducing the Open-Air Capybara Bath of the Izu Shaboten Zoo This video, titled "Capybara with mandarin orange on head in the open-air bath☆みかんを頭にのせるカピバラ 伊豆シャボテン動物公園【元祖カピバラの露天風呂】," was released by "HIRO@sea." The video shows capybaras enjoying a relaxing soak in an open-air bath. The capybaras can be found at the Izu Shaboten Zoo, in Futo, Ito City, Shizuoka Prefecture in Japan's Tokai Region. Just like humans, the capybara enjoy a warm bath. The water is filled with yuzu, a type of citrus fruit. You can see the capybara with a yuzu on its head at 1:46 in the video! In this article, we'll introduce the Izu Shaboten Zoo and its open-air capybara bath. The Izu Shaboten Zoo Photo：Izu Shaboten Zoo The Izu Shaboten Zoo is a theme park in Futo, Ito City, Shizuoka. The Zoo is known for animals and cacti. The zoo was opened around 60 years ago, in October of 1959. The 200,000-square-meter park, which opened around 60 years ago in October 1959, has a greenhouse with cacti and succulents from all over the world. There's also kangaroos, capybaras, anteaters, squirrel monkeys, red pandas, chimpanzees, ponies, wild birds, the ever-popular motionless bobwhite stork, and a variety of other animals. The zoo is home to around 800 animals and birds, including flamingos, peacocks, and fennec foxes. The cacti are divided into five sections: the South American Pavilion, the African Pavilion, the Madagascar Pavilion, the Mexico Pavilion, and the Forest Cactus Pavilion. There are edible cacti available for tasting as well. In 2016, the official Japanese name of the zoo was changed from the former "Izu Shaboten Park" (伊豆シャボテン公園) to the current "Izu Shaboten Zoological Park" (伊豆シャボテン動物公園). A little to the east of Izu Shaboten Zoo, there's Izu Granpal Park, Izu Kogen Tabi no Eki Granpal Port, New York Lamp Museum & Flower Garden, and the Izu Oceanic Park Diving Center as part of the Izu Shaboten Zoological Park Group. Izu Shaboten Animal Park also has life-size replicas of a sculpture of ancient American civilization, and the entire Izu Shaboten Zoological Park Group has a wide range of attractions, from animals and plants to artifacts, park golf, the "Ship-shaped 3D Maze KAiZOKU," "Zip Line 風KAZE," "Water Balloons," and more. There's also "Wan Wan Park," a dog run where you can enjoy taking your dog, and the "Izu Kogen Grand Illumination," a hands-on style illumination. Nearby, the official hotels "Izu Shaboten Village" and "Izu Shaboten Village GLAMPING" can be found. You can fully enjoy your Izu Shaboten experience with an overnight stay at either one of these locations. The Open Air Capybara Bath Photo：Open-air capybara bath Firstly, what exactly are capybaras? Capybaras are members of the caviidae family of rodents, native to South America. They can be found from Panama to the northeast of Argentina. They are large (106-134 centimeters in length), have a gentle nature and are known to be very friendly towards humans. They tend to be found in groups of 10 to 20. A group of capybaras can be seen soaking in the bath together from 0:07 in the video. The open-air capybara bath shown in the video has been a tradition of the Izu Shaboten Zoo since 1982. At that time, the zookeepers were washing the exhibit with warm water when the capybaras began to soak in the puddles. Thereafter, the zookeepers came up with the idea of preparing warm baths for the capybaras. Now, the capybara bath has become a winter tradition. Nowadays, many zoos in Japan have introduced their own capybara baths, but the originator is none other than the Izu Shaboten Zoo. The zoo even has a capybara mascot known as "Capyba." Summary of the Izu Shaboten Zoo Source :【Official Website】Izu Shaboten Zoo Due to the coronavirus pandemic in 2020, to uphold social distancing rules, capybara and red panda plush toys are placed between seats at the zoo as well as the restaurant "Forest Animal Restaurant GIBBONTEI." The adorable image of the plush toys seated in the restaurant has generated buzz online, and has even been shown on the news. The plush toy and calendar can be purchased at the gift shop within the zoo. Many goods are also available on the official online shop "IZU SHABOTEN HONPO," so do take a look! Take a moment to relax and check out this heartwarming video. ◆Izu Shaboten Zoo Facilities Overview◆ 【Address】1317-13 Tomido, Itou City, Shizuoka Prefecture 【Access】From JR Atami Station, get off at JR Ito Station on the Ito Line, and take the Tokai Bus for Shaboten Zoo (~35 minutes). 【Admission Fee】Adults: 2,400 yen Elementary School Students: 1,200 yen Children (over the age of 4): 400 yen Discounts for groups, seniors, and persons with disabilities, as well as coupon deals, are also available. 【Hours】9:00-17:00 【Closures】None 【Avg. Time Spent Here】2+ Hours 【Parking】400 regular spaces, 500 yen｜Buses: 18 spaces, 1,000 yen 【Official Website】Izu Shaboten Zoo https://izushaboten.com/lang/index.html 【Tripadvisor】Izu Shaboten Zoo https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g298123-d1196864-Reviews-Izu_Shaboten_Zoo-Ito_Shizuoka_Prefecture_Tokai_Chubu.html

COOL JAPAN VIDEOS is always holding photo contests. This time, we have selected photos that capture the majestic Mt. Fuji, located on the border of Yamanashi and Shizuoka prefectures. We'll also introduce the locations where the photos were taken, so be sure to enjoy each one so you don't miss out on some useful information! COOL JAPAN VIDEOS is a social, video curation site that introduces the charms of Japan to people around the world who are interested in Japan. Our photo contests allow you to participate and even win with photos taken via your smartphone! Stick around to learn more! ■Table of Contents - Mt. Fuji in Past Photo Contests  The Aftermath of the Hoei Eruption  Swans at Lake Yamanaka  The Tea Fields of Obuchi Sasaba  Fujiyoshida  Oshino Hakkai  Aka-Fuji  The Daikanzan Observatory  Kawaguchi Asama Shrine  The Fumotoppara Campground  The Takabocchi Highlands - Features of COOL JAPAN VIDEOS Photo Contests - Current Photo Contest - Summary of Mt. Fuji in COOL JAPAN VIDEOS Photo Contests Mt. Fuji in Past Photo Contests Let's take a look at some of the wonderful photos taken of Mt. Fuji from the many fantastic works that convey the beauty of Japan. COOLJAPANVIDEOS Photographer: 01ktk15 Location: Mizugatsuka Park (Susono, Shizuoka) A Place Where You Can Photograph the Aftermath of the Hoei Eruption Fuji's flanks were blown away by the Hoei Eruption in 1707 during the Edo period (1603-1868 AD), forming the bowl-shaped Hoei Crater. At Mizugatsuka Park, you can photograph the crater in its entirety as it changes from season to season. The crater is located along the Fuji Skyline, near the second station of Mt. Fuji at an elevation of 1,450 meters. You can capture powerful compositions that include the beauty of Mt. Fuji, while reminding you that it's still a mighty volcano. An Article About Mt. Fuji Video article 4:21 Fuji - Japan's Largest Tourist Attraction and the Pride of the Country. Its Mysterious Beauty Fascinates All Who See It YouTube COOLJAPANVIDEOS Photographer: タケタロ Location: Lake Yamanaka (Minamitsuru, Yamanashi) When to See Swans at Lake Yamanaka Swans can usually be seen at Lake Yamanaka around December and fly back north around March or April. Some species of swans are don't migrate, and instead lay eggs and raise their young in the grassy knolls along the shores of Lake Yamanaka in spring. Mt. Fuji is located to the southwest of Lake Yamanaka. If you're looking to capture the majestic Mt. Fuji with beautiful swans and snowy winter scenery in one photograph, the northern shore of Lake Yamanaka is your best bet. A Sightseeing Article About Lake Yamanaka Video article 1:53 Go Sightseeing at Lake Yamanaka, Nestled at the Foot of the Sacred Mt. Fuji! The Yamanakako Area, Surrounded by Nature, Is One of the Top Sightseeing Destinations in Japan! YouTube COOLJAPANVIDEOS Photographer: phantastic420 Location: Obuchi Sasaba (Fuji, Shizuoka) The Tea Fields of Obuchi Sasaba Obuchi Sasaba in the Obuchi district of Fuji City is a photo spot where you can capture Mt. Fuji over vast tea fields with no power lines or buildings to obstruct your view. Many photographers come to capture the verdant tea fields with the towering Mt. Fuji in the backdrop. Located about 10 minutes by car from the Tomei-Fuji and Shin-Tomei Shin-Fuji interchanges, the best time to visit is when the tea leaves are sprouting, particularly from mid-April to mid-May. An Article About Tea Fields and Mt. Fuji Video article 2:09 Obuchi Sasaba - Beautiful Tea Fields and Mt. Fuji in Shizuoka, Japan! YouTube COOLJAPANVIDEOS Photographer: Yuto Yamada Location: Fujiyoshida, Yamanashi Fujiyoshida, a Town With an Amazing View of Mt. Fuji Fujiyoshida, in Yamanashi prefecture, is the closest town to Mt. Fuji and features spectacular views of the mountain. In particular, at Arakurayama Sengen Park, it's possible to capture Mt. Fuji, cherry blossoms, and the 5-story Chureito Pagoda in one frame. Fuji, cherry blossoms, and the five-story pagoda in the frame. On top of the cherry blossoms in spring, visitors can enjoy the depth and splendor of each season here, including the fresh greenery of summer, the autumn foliage in fall, and the splendid snow landscapes in winter, all of which are sure to delight. An Article on Kitaguchi Hongu Fuji Sengen Shrine in Fujiyoshida Video article 3:16 Kitaguchi Hongu Fuji Sengen Shrine - Learn About One of Japan's Most Famous Power Spots, Located in Yamanashi Prefecture, Where the Sacred Mt. Fuji Resides, and Information About Popular Amulets and Shuin Stamps for Tourists! YouTube COOLJAPANVIDEOS Photographer: Nguyen Vu Location: Oshino Hakkai (Minamitsuru, Yamanashi) The Beautiful Oshino Hakkai Oshino Hakkai is a sacred spring located at the foot of the natural monument, Mt. Fuji, and is considered a power spot. The pure spring water from Mt. Fuji, a sacred mountain, is said to hold sacred power. This photo conveys the atmosphere and purity of Oshino Hakkai. If you visit Oshino Hakkai, be sure to take a picture, as it will be treasured for a lifetime. An Article on Oshino Hakkai Video article 4:22 Oshino Hakkai - Breathtaking Scenery at the Foot of Mt. Fuji! YouTube COOLJAPANVIDEOS Photographer: Phúc Jindo Location: Oshino, Yamanashi Photographing the Auspicious Aka-Fuji Aka-Fuji (Red Fuji) has long been a symbol of good luck for warding off evil spirits and bringing prosperity to business. It is a sight that photographers all over Japan hope to see. However, the conditions for photographing Aka-Fuji are very specific. Aka-Fuji can only be seen from the eastern side of the mountain from late summer to early autumn, just after sunrise, and on a clear day after rain. If you're a photographer and up for a challenge, we definitely recommend trying to capture this beautiful sight. An Article About Narusawa, Yamanashi, Located at the Foot of Mt. Fuji Video article 2:40 Introducing “Narusawa, Yamanashi,” Home to the Tallest Mountain in Japan. Behold the Jaw Droppingly Beautiful Scenery of Mt. Fuji. YouTube COOLJAPANVIDEOS Photographer: 01ktk15 Location: Daikanzan Observatory (Ashigarashita, Kanagawa) A Breathtaking View From the Daikanzan Observatory The name "Daikanzan" (lit. "Large Viewing Mountain") comes from the artist Yokoyama Taikan, who liked to paint Mt. Fuji from the Sky Lounge at the summit of the 1,011-meter-tall mountain. The spectacular view makes for an excellent photo and will take up a special place in your heart. It's especially popular in winter when the air is crisp and clear. Mt. Fuji and Lake Ashinoko covered with snow is guaranteed to result in a dignified work of art. An Article on the Best Places to View Mt. Fuji Video article 7:32 The Graceful Sight of the World-Famous Mount Fuji Can Be Enjoyed From All Over Japan. This Article Will Help You Find a Spot to View Mt. Fuji That’s Just Right for You! YouTube COOLJAPANVIDEOS Photographer: Phúc Jindo Location: Kawaguchi Asama Shrine (Minamitsuru, Yamanashi) Kawaguchi Asama Shrine – A Torii in the Sky Kawaguchi Asama Shrine was built to worship Mt. Fuji's god, Sengen-O-no-kami, in order to quell a major volcanic eruption of Mt. Fuji. The torii gate is located approximately 30 minutes on foot from the shrine grounds, and the view of Mt. Fuji is beautiful beyond words. It's also called the "Torii in the Sky," and is a recommended spot known for being especially picturesque. An Article on Kawaguchi Chigo no Mai at Kawaguchi Asama Shrine Video article 3:15 Kawaguchi Sengen Shrine, Now a World Cultural Heritage Site! A Look at the Beautiful Traditional Dance, "Kawaguchi Chigo no Mai"! YouTube COOLJAPANVIDEOS Photographer: mioka Location: Fumotoppara Campground (Fujinomiya, Shizuoka) Mt Fuji From the Fumotoppara Campground The best part about the Fumotoppara Campground is that you can see Mt. Fuji in its entirety from the summit to the base. It is truly a picturesque view. Located in Fujinomiya, the Asagiri Plateau, known for its foggy appearance, is also in the vicinity. At the Fumotoppara Campground, a place loved by campers, you can experience the outdoors with a magnificent view of Mt. Fuji. An Article on the Yamanakako Fuji Snow Festival Video article 3:10 Enjoy the Beauty of Mt. Fuji to the Fullest at the Yamanakako Fuji Snow Festival! YouTube COOLJAPANVIDEOS Photographer: HKP Location: Takabocchi Highlands (Shiojiri, Nagano) Mt. Fuji From the Takabocchi Highlands From the summit of the mountain, which offers a 360-degree view of the Takabocchi Highlands, Lake Suwa, the lights of the city by the lake, and the sea of clouds all add to the main attraction of Mt. Fuji. The area is especially spectacular from autumn, when the air is clear and the night views are spectacular, to the time when the access road is closed for the winter. It's hard to take a better picture than Mt. Fuji and a sea of clouds, early in the morning, before the sun rises and when the sky is tinted orange. An Article on the Mt. Fuji World Heritage Centre Video article 2:32 The Mt. Fuji World Heritage Centre Is a New-Age Museum That Fuses Digital and Analog! The Museum, Located in Fujikawaguchiko, Yamanashi, Is Full of Facilities That Convey the Beauty of the World Heritage Site Mt. Fuji! YouTube Features of COOL JAPAN VIDEOS Photo Contests COOL JAPAN VIDEOS is a social, video curation site that shares the charms of Japan with people all over the world who are interested in Japan. Click here for more information about COOLJAPANVIDEOS 「COOL JAPAN VIDEOS photo contests are open to everyone! Even a photo taken by chance with your smartphone could win a prize! Here are some of the features of our contests. ・Photos taken not only with SLR cameras and digital cameras, but also with smartphones and other devices can be submitted. ・You can submit as many photos as you like during the contest period. ・Image editing, such as cropping and color changes, is also allowed! Here you can find all of the past photo contest winners in one place. You can also see the prizes for each contest, as well as the locations where the photos were taken and the judges' critiques. Click here to see past photo contest winners Text only Photo Contest Results - COOL JAPAN VIDEOS Winning Photos - Discover the Charms of Japan! Current Photo Contest The following is information about the current photo contest. [Ongoing From September 2022] The 13th COOL JAPAN VIDEOS Photo Contest Theme: Japan Travel Memories Submission period: September 1, 2022 12:00 AM - October 31, 2022 11:59 PM (Japan time) Prizes: ■Grand Prize: 30,000 yen Amazon gift card (1 Winner) ■Honorable Mentions: 10,000 yen Amazon gift card (5 Winners) COOL JAPAN VIDEOS Photo Contest: Japan Travel Memories Summary of Mt. Fuji in COOL JAPAN VIDEOS Photo Contests Did you enjoy these photos showing the beauty of Mt. Fuji? All of these were submitted to our past photo contest. There are some very popular photo spots included as well. Mt. Fuji has various appearances, changing with Japan's four seasons, as well as natural conditions, and time of day. We hope these photos of Mt. Fuji, a symbol of Japan and a World Heritage Site, will reach people around the world. We invite you to share the beauty of Japan with people around the world with COOL JAPAN VIDEOS. Related Articles Text only Photo Contest Landscape Photography - Introducing 10 Beautiful Japanese Landscapes YouTube Text only Children of COOL JAPAN VIDEOS Photo Contests: 10 Heartwarming Photos That Will Put a Smile on Your Face! YouTube Text only Autumn in COOL JAPAN VIDEOS Photo Contests: 10 Beautiful Photos of Autumn in Japan YouTube .separation_line { border-width: 0 0 8px; border-style: solid; border-image: url('data:image/svg+xml,') 0 0 100% repeat; width: 216px; margin:auto; margin-bottom: 50px; }

What is "Ninja Kingdom Ise" This is a video titled "From the sky above Ise Azuchi-Momoyama Castle Street," created by Ise Azuchi Momoyama Shopping Street. It introduces an aerial view of the facilities of Ninja Kingdom Ise (former name: Ise Azuchi Momoyama Castle Street). Ninja Kingdom Ise (Ninja Kingdom Ise) is a theme park where you can learn about Japanese history while having a great time. Let’s check out the recommended sightseeing information of Ninja Kingdom Ise, with this video. The video introduces the realistic theme park that shows the scenery of the Sengoku period from every angle. Which attractions are you interested in? The Sights of Ninja Kingdom Ise Source :YouTube screenshot Ninja Kingdom Ise is located in Ise City (伊勢市, Ise-Shi), Mie Prefecture (三重県, Mie-Ken), in Japan's Tōkai Region. It’s a popular theme park with the theme of Japanese history and culture. In this park, there are recreations of sites such as the colorful, historical Azuchi Castle central tower, once built by Oda Nobunaga, and the cityscape of the Azuchi Momoyama Period. If you rent a Kimono or Ninja costume for walking around inside Ninja Kingdom Ise, you'll feel like you've gone back in time as you enjoy historical sightseeing. Activities at Ninja Kingdom Ise Source :YouTube screenshot At the Sengoku Skill Competition Hall of Ninja Kingdom Ise, introduced in the first part of the video, you can try historic activities such as shooting a bow and arrow, blowgun shooting, and Shuriken throwing. The Betting Zone, where you can play Japanese games such as Cho-han Bakuchi, and Chinchirorin (Cee-lo), is another great place to spend your time. Also in the park, you can see a performance of traditional Japanese “Nankin Tama Sudare” where performers make fancy shapes using a bamboo screen, and you can also meet the mascot character Nyanmage! You can see the performance at 1:44 in the video. Also be sure to visit theaters, such as the Daininja Theatre, where History dramas are played, the Yamada Magistrate Office, and the Martial Arts House, where you can experience the history of Kobudō in Japan. We also recommend touring the Arita porcelain workshop, where you can experience historic pottery. The Arita porcelain workshop is introduced at 8:50 in the video. Enjoy Gourmet Cuisine and Shopping at Ninja Kingdom Ise! If you use the “Walk-and Eat Ticket” in the park, you can enjoy the gourmet eat-around in a gastronomic town, including seafood dishes from Ise Toba (鳥羽, Toba). The Charcoal-grilled Seafood Grill Gassen Grand Dining Room (炭火海鮮焼き 合戦大食事処) is an especially popular place to eat fresh seafood. At nearby shops, you can buy souvenirs such as leather products from the popular brand “AMATERAS.” We also recommend checking out the Ise Natural hot spring "Azuchi Castle Hot Spring." The hot springs are shown at 4:31 in the video. There's no better way to end your day than soaking in a relaxing hot spring after enjoying an amazing time at Ninja Kingdom Ise. Summary of Ninja Kingdom Ise Source :YouTube screenshot In Ninja Kingdom Ise, sometimes exhibits of popular Japanese movies or mystery solving events are held for a limited time. Definitely check them out if you get the chance. As shown in the video, this is a theme park that can be enjoyed all day long thanks to the historic cityscape, culture, gourmet food, shopping, hot springs, and more. Take a tour of Ninja Kingdom Ise, and enjoy the deep history of Japan! The colorfully decorated Azuchi Castle, introduced at 6:13 in the video, is a must-see! ◆Ninja Kingdom Ise◆ 【Address】1201-1 Futami-Chō Mitsu, Ise City, Mie Prefecture 519-0603 【Access】9 Minutes from Ise EXPWY, Ise I.C. 【Admission Fee】Day Passport for Adults: 4,900 JPY (As of November, 2019) 【Hours】9:00～17:00 【Parking 】Available 【Tel】+81 596-43-2300 【Official Website】Ninja Kingdom Ise http://www.ise-jokamachi.jp/en/

Video Introduction: Mononoke Village and Valley of Witches, Aichi Prefecture This video, titled "[Ghibli] Latest Information "Mononoke Village" and "Valley of Witches" – An Interview with Director Goro Miyazaki! A Perfect Recreation of Whisper of the Heart's Antique Shop?!" (【ジブリ】新情報「もののけの里」「魔女の谷」を宮崎吾朗監督に直撃！　「耳をすませば」の地球屋をプロの仕事で完全再現!?), was uploaded by "CHUKYO TV NEWS" (中京テレビNEWS). The theme park "Ghibli Park," scheduled to open on November 1, 2022, is drawing a lot of attention right now. The latest information on the Mononoke Village and Valley of Witches areas within the park is presented in the form of an interview with director Goro Miyazaki, the son of Hayao Miyazaki. Information on Ghibli Park - Opening Dates, Location, Etc. Photo：An aerial view of Aichi Earth Expo Memorial Park in Aichi, Japan, taken via drone Ghibli Park is a park that recreates the world of Studio Ghibli. The park is located in Aichi Expo Memorial Park in Nagakute, Aichi, in Japan's Tokai Region. There are no big attractions or rides at the park, and it's a place where visitors can explore forests and paths while feeling the wind on their skin and discovering hidden secrets. The fact that the park is built together with the forest shows how much importance is placed on the Ghibli worldview. Ghibli Park is divided into five areas, which will be opened sequentially by completion date. The first phase of the park will open on November 1, 2022 and will include the "Hill of Youth," "Dondoko Forest," where Satsuki and Mei's house from "My Neighbor Totoro" is located, and "Ghibli's Grand Warehouse," which will house various exhibits of Studio Ghibli works. The second phase is scheduled to open in the fall of 2023 with "Mononoke Village" and "Valley of Witches." Check out the official website for detailed opening dates and a map of the park. Mononoke Village – Scheduled to Launch in 2023 Source :YouTube screenshot The Mononoke Village area is scheduled to open approximately one year after the November 2022 opening. In Mononoke Village, visitors will be able to see facilities that appeared in the movie "Princess Mononoke" as well as objects made based on the characters in the movie. During the interview, director Goro Miyazaki says that objects (playground equipment) will be made in the likeness of the demons/cursed gods in Princess Mononoke, and that they will also be climbable. In addition, visitors can enjoy a hands-on learning experience at "Irontown," where iron is extracted from iron sand, and a charcoal-making hut is also under construction. Valley of Witches – Scheduled to Launch in 2024 Source :YouTube screenshot Following Mononoke Village, Valley of Witches is scheduled to open. It has been announced that the Okino residence where Kiki, the main character in the movie "Kiki's Delivery Service," was born and raised will be constructed, and the room where Kiki packed her bags will be faithfully reproduced as well. The "Gütiokipänjä Bakery," where Kiki and her black cat Jiji lived, will have a store as well as an attic. According to an interview with director Goro Miyazaki, the "Gütiokipänjä Bakery" will actually sell bread baked in a stone oven. The opening of Valley of the Witches is surely something to look forward to! The 'Hill of Youth' – A Faithful Recreation of the Antique Shop Featured in 'Whisper of the Heart' Source :YouTube screenshot The "Hill of Youth" will open prior to "Mononoke Village" and "Valley of Witches." There, the antique shop from the movie Whisper of the Heart will be recreated. The shop is built by Tatsuya Yamada, an architect specializing in wooden structures, and Takeshi Nakamura, a carpenter, who reviewed the work dozens of times, paying close attention to the smallest details. One example of the attention to detail was shared in the interview as well. It's mentioned that, in order to reproduce every detail, they asked an abacus craftsman to decorate a part of the balcony railing fence for the antique shop. This shows the attention to detail that went into recreating the structure to immerse visitors in the world of Ghibli. Now that you have this knowledge, you can be sure to look for small details like this when visiting! [Video] 8:00 - Interview with Yamada and Nakamura Admission Fees, Tickets, and Free Areas at Ghibli Park Ghibli Park requires a reservation for each area with specific dates and times. Please check the official Ghibli Park website for up-to-date admission fees and pricing for each area. Tickets are scheduled to go on sale in August, and will be available for purchase through Boo-Woo Tickets (Boo-Wooチケット) and other means. In addition, Ghibli Park will also have a free area with playground equipment inspired by "The Cat Returns." This is great information for those who live nearby with young children or those planning on visiting the area with kids. 【Official Website】Ghibli Park https://ghibli-park.jp/en/ 【TripAdvisor】Aichi Expo Memorial Park https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g1121224-d1309786-Reviews-Expo_2005_Aichi_Commemorative_Park-Nagakute_Aichi_Prefecture_Tokai_Chubu.html

Check out Enshu Onigawara, aTraditional Japanese Craft! This video, titled "Enshu Onigawara: The Last Onigawara Craftsmen" (遠州鬼瓦 最後の鬼板師), shows how Onigawara, a traditional Japanese craft of making "roof ornament oni" (mythical Japanese ogre-demons) is made. Traditionally, Onigawara were put on the roofs of houses, shrines, and temples. The craftspeople making Onigawara are called "Oniita-shi" (鬼板師) This video features Mr. Takashi Nagura, the fourth generation of Enshu Onihide, who has been creating Enshu Onigawara in Fukuroi, Shizuoka prefecture. He continues creating Onigawara with his own hands, and with the help of Mr. Motohisa Nagura, the next successor (the fifth generation of Onihide), in order to save the traditional Japanese craft. The History of Enshu Onigawara Photo：Enshu Onigawara Enshu Onigawara have ancient roots dating back to the 14th century, when local tilers produced smoked roof tiles for the construction of Sunpu Castle (駿府城, Sunpujo). Made on the coasts of Ohta River (太田川, Ohtagawa) and Tenryu River (天竜川, Tenryugawa), the tiles are traditional crafts which have been held in high regard since long ago. Created by combining traditional Japanese art techniques, the oni roof tiles look very impressive as if they were actually artworks. Made in a way that actual spirits seem to be housed within them, Enshu Onigawara haver been popular ever since. How to Make Enshu Onigawara: The Skills of Onigawara Craftsmen Source :YouTube screenshot Made from high quality clay from the local soil of the Enshu area's rice fields, Enshu Onigawara boast a beautiful silvery luster. To create Enshu Onigawara, craftsmen first mold the shape of the clay with a gold spatula before baking it. After that, they begin polishing the tiles over and over. From 2:02 in the video you can see one of the craftsmen draw a rough sketch on clay based on the framework, and you can see craftsmen molding the shape of the tile from 3:16. From 7:40, they can be seen using a special tool to add fine engravings to the clay, gradually creating the powerful facial expression of Enshu Onigawara. Finally, you can see craftsmen baking tiles in a large furnace of the workshop at 9:03. Source :YouTube screenshot Enshu Onigawara, one of Japan's traditional crafts, also have implications as amulets or guardian deities for buildings. Most Enshu Onigawara have angry oni-like faces. Since the Heisei period, however, new designs of oni tiles have been created and now other types of facial expressions, such as smiling oni or humorous tiles of Kappa (a mythical Japanese creature), have begun to rise in popularity. Check out Artworks by Onigawara Craftsmen! Onigawara craftsmen not only produce authentic oni faces, but also oni-faced nameplates for home entrances, family emblems, and display boards. Moreover, they also sell a wide range of local crafts that can be used in daily life, such as pen-holders with oni faces, artistic daruma dolls, oni-faced mail boxes, key chains, and more. Mori town (森町, Morimachi) of Shizuoka prefecture, offers Enshu Onigawara trial tickets at Onigawara workshops to those who donate more than 12,000 yen (~$110 USD) as a hometown tax return gift. In Shizuoka prefecture, people contrive ways to make traditional Japanese crafts closer to our everyday lives. Overview of Enshu Onigawara Source :YouTube screenshot Enshu Onigawara, are generally attached to roofs as you can see at 0:38 in this video, or it is also placed in front of the entrance like you can see from 4:26 in the video. These days, small items in the motif of Onigawara are also popular. In this video you can see interviews of some Onigawara craftsmen. From 2:40 in this video, you can see the interview of Mr. Takashi Nagura, the fourth generation of Onihide; He talks about what made him pursue becoming an Enshu Onigawara craftsperson. From 3:34 he speaks about what he thinks about traditional craft products waning in popularity. From 6:09 you can also watch another interview of Mr. Motohisa Nagura, the fifth generation of Onihide, talking about what he thinks about the future of Enshu Onigawara. If this video makes you interested in Enshu Onigawara, we recommend that you get artwork of Onigawara or visit Shizuoka to try creating Onigawara. 【Official Website】 Enshu Onigawara: Shizuoka Local Craft Promotion Committee http://www.shizuoka-kougei.jp/craft/ensyu-onigawara/

Gifu City- Smack in the Center of Japan This video is titled “Gifu City Promotional Video [Original Version],” and is produced by "Gifu City Official Channel." Gifu City, Gifu in the Tokai region of Japan, is located in pretty much the dead center of Japan. Therefore, the city is sometimes referred to as “the belly of Japan.” Being the capital of Gifu Prefecture, the city is full of tourist spots, such as the clear Nagara River flowing through the city center, and the verdant Mt. Kinka. Gifu has many traditional crafts, including Gifu Wagasa (Japanese umbrellas), Gifu Chochin (lanterns) and Gifu Uchiwa (fans). These crafts have helped the everyday life of locals and are perfect for souvenirs! It's only about 18 minutes from Nagoya City on the JR Tokaido Line, and with easy access to the city, it's become popular in recent years as a good spot for domestic travel. This article introduces the tourist spots, traditional events and food in Gifu. Enjoy famous tourist spots in Gifu to your hearts content. Be sure to follow along with the video! Recommended Tourist Destinations in Gifu Photo：Mt. Kinka (金華山, kinkazan) Gifu has many scenic spots and popular places like Mt. Kinka (金華山, kinkazan), Nagara River (長良川, nagaragawa), Gifu Castle (岐阜城, gifujo), also known as Inabayama Castle (稲葉山城, Inabayamajo), Nagaragawa Ukai (cormorant fishing), latticework architectures, and the Great Buddha Hall of Shohoji Temple (正法寺, shohoji), and many more. The Gifu Great Buddha here is known as one of the "Three Great Buddha" of Japan. The Gifu Great Buddha appears at 2:56 in the video. You can feel the godliness of his gentle stare, as if he was smiling down at you, just by watching the video. A lot of events and festivals, such as the firework festival at Nagara River, Tejikara Fire Festival, Gifu Half Marathon, Dairyuji Lantern Festival and Ayu-kuyou are also held here, and the city is attracting an increasing number of both domestic and overseas tourists. The footage of the Tejikara Fire Festival starts at 3:37 in the video. You can see a spectacular pillar of flame spread across your screen! The History and Traditional Ceremonies of Gifu Photo：Nagaragawa Ukai At Nagara River in Gifu, the 1300-year-old Nagaragawa Ukai is held. During the evening, fishermen in traditional garments climb aboard boats with fishing fires and fish sweetfish in the clear river. Nagara River appears at 0:31 in the video. You can see the beauty of the river through the footage. Gifu has played an important role in connecting Kyoto and Nagoya (Owari) since ancient times, and the city developed as the Rakuichi Rakuza market was established in the city center during the Azuchi Momoyama period (1573 – 1598 AD). The market was a part of the economic policies made by Oda Nobunaga and Toyotomi Hideyoshi with the aim of revitalizing the economy by opening a market in the castle town of Gifu and reducing taxes. Oda Nobunaga, one of the most famous warriors of the Sengoku period, appears with Gifu Castle at 0:56 in the video. Thanks to the success of the market, many historical sites, post-towns and red-light districts appeared around Gifu, and you can still see geisha and geiko, a reminder of the prosperity of those days. The Azuchi Momoyama period is an important turning point in the history of Japan, with the relationship between samurai and townspeople, the Rakuichi-Rakuza market system is said to have become a model for the economic policies that brought about the era of peace in the Edo period (1603 – 1868 AD). Local Food in Gifu Photo：Hida beef Gifu is also renowned for its hot springs. Gifu Grand Hotel in the city center has a hot spring facility, and similar inns and hotels with hot spring facilities are dotted around Gifu Station. The footage of the relaxing hot spring facility starts at 3:52 in the video. When it comes to food in Gifu, Hida beef is something you have to try. Tourists can enjoy Japanese cuisine using ingredients from the local mountains, including Hida beef steak/hot pot, sweetfish dishes and Botan nabe in Gifu. Summary of Sightseeing in Gifu Located in deep mountains, the large city of Gifu is surrounded by a rich natural landscape. The video shows a lot of tourist spots that we weren't able to cover in the video. Please enjoy the attractive city of Gifu city, in Gifu Prefecture, through the video! As Gifu is located near Nagoya, be it as a stepping stone in your trip to Nagoya or your main destination, definitely come visit Gifu and experience delicious food, history, culture, and beautiful scenery! 【Official Website】Website of the Gifu City Office https://translate.google.co.jp/translate?hl=ja&tab=wT&sl=auto&tl=en&u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.city.gifu.lg.jp%2F

The Skilled Thatchers of Shirakawa-go? In this article we introduce the following video: "Door to Tomorrow by At Home Series '#019 Thatcher Eizaku Tanaka'" (明日への扉 by アットホームシリーズ「#019 茅葺職人 田中 栄作」). The video introduces 26 year-old thatcher Eizaku Tanaka from 2:55. The young thatcher was born and raised in Shirakawa-go, Gifu, in the Tokai region (東海地方) of Japan. Shirakawa-go, a registered World Heritage Site, is situated in an area that experiences heavy snowfall each year. The characteristic Gassho-zukuri-style houses are built to withstand the harsh weather conditions, however, constructing the thatched roofing is not only hard physically but also requires a vast amount of knowledge and skill. More About Shirakawa-go, a World Heritage Site in Gifu Prefecture Photo：Shirakawa-go in winter, Gifu Prefecture The unspoiled landscape of the Japanese villages Shirakawa-go in Gifu prefecture and Gokayama (五箇山) in Toyama prefecture (富山県, toyamaken) is hard to find anywhere else in Japan. Both of these historic villages were registered as UNESCO World Heritage Sites in 1995. As mentioned previously, Shirakawa-go is located in Gifu prefecture. This area receives some of the heaviest snowfall in Japan and around 100 gassho-zukuri houses of varying sizes have been built in this remote area of the country. You can see the snow-covered gassho-zukuri houses from 1:47 in the video. Gasshozukuri Minkaen (合掌造り民家園), an open-air museum located in Ogimachi (荻町) lies along the Sho river (庄川, shougawa) and was registered as an Important Cultural Asset in 1976. Shirakawa-go used to be rarely visited by outsiders, especially during the winter months, however, as the beauty of the landscape became well known through the media and internet, the number of tourists dramatically increased and Shirakawa-go is now one of the top sightseeing spots in Japan. The village is often lit up at night and the snow-covered gassho-zukuri houses look like something out of a fairytale. More About the Thatchers of Shirakawa-go Photo：A thatched roof The sericulture (silk farming) industry was very important to the Shirakawa-go region. You can see the attics where the silk worms were kept from 1:48 in the video. The typical shape of the thatched roofs is called "Kirizuma" (切妻) and the main materials used to make the roofs are Chinese silver grass (ススキ, Miscanthus sinensis) and Kariyasu (刈安, Miscanthus tinctorius), both of which are water-resistant and breathable. The roofs are generally replaced every 30-40 years, with small repairs being made along the way. The layout of the houses within the village and even the angle of the roofs have all been carefully designed taking into consideration the fact that they must be able to withstand the strong winds and heavy snowfall of that region. The smoke which rises from the sunken fireplace (irori, 囲炉裏) helps to prevent pests and degradation of the roof and improves the overall durability. The thatchers use techniques like these to ensure the roofs are strong enough to withstand the rain and wind. Reroofing the Houses of Shirakawa-go Photo：Re-thatching by a thatching craftsman Gassho-zukuri houses have been built in Japan since the Edo period (1603 AD-1868 AD). Built without the use of nails, the houses are split into two areas: the first floor living space and the attic space used for silk-farming. Windows can be built into the roof and the spacious design of the Kirizumazukuri (切妻造り) roofs create the ideal conditions for silk farming during the harsh winter months. The roofs are supported by pillars that are cut at a particular angle, lodged in place, and then tied securely. No nails are used to hold the pillars in place. In this way, the frame of the roof is strong yet flexible enough to withstand earthquakes. The above are all great examples of the high level of skill involved in Japanese engineering and construction. The design and functionality of the thatched roofing is one of the highlights of the houses in Shirakawa-go. The roofs are highly durable, however, being made from natural materials, they do require reroofing every 30-40 years. Reed screens called "sudare" are first laid down as a base, after which bundles of miscanthus reed, cut to around 80cm in length, are piled on making sure to leave no gaps. The most difficult part of the reroofing process is perfecting the edge of the roof, as this affects not only the final look of the roof but also the durability. Reroofing is a huge project which with the combined effort of the local thatchers takes on average 2 months to complete and costs approximately 20 million yen. You can take a look at the reroofing process from 6:52 in the video. Summary of the Thatchers of Shirakawa-go, a World Heritage Site in Gifu Prefecture Photo：Thatched roofs in Shirakawa-go, Gifu Prefecture Shirakawa-go, a village nestled amongst the mountains of Gifu prefecture, is a popular sightseeing destination which attracts a large number of tourists year after year. Other popular tourist spots and events in the Shirakawa-go area include Hirase Onsen (平瀬温泉, hiraseonsen), the autumn foliage of the area, Myozenji Temple (明善寺) where you can collect Goshuin (御朱印) and see the Doboroku Festival (どぼろく祭, doborokumatsuri) as well as the lion dance called "Shishimai" (獅子舞) in Japanese. You can also take a look at Shirakawa-go online on the Shirakawa village office website, which incldues live camera footage taken from the observation deck. 【Official Website】Shirakawa-go Tourism Association https://shirakawa-go.gr.jp/ 【Tripadvisor】Shirakawa-go Gasshozukuri Village https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g1119912-d1407426-Reviews-The_Historic_Villages_of_Shirakawa_go_Gassho_Style_Houses-Shirakawa_mura_Ono_gun.html

Introducing Gifu Prefecture's "Monet's Pond"! This video is titled "[4K Ultra HD] Monet's Pond - The pond, such as Monet paintings (Shot on RED EPIC)（[ 4K Ultra HD ] モネの池 The pond,such as Monet paintings (Shot on RED EPIC)）". Many of you may be surprised by the beauty of it. This video introduces Monet's pond, a popular tourist destination in Seki (関市, Seki shi), Gifu Prefecture, in Japan's Tokai Region. The beautiful spring in Gifu Prefecture is said to be visited by many tourists from both Tokyo and Osaka. It can be enjoyed in the video and images in this article. A variety of colorful water lilies can be seen in the spring, including yellow water lilies and more in just a 3-minute video. What Is Monet's Pond? Photo：Gold carp Monet's pond is an officially unnamed pond about the size of a tennis court, formed from the spring water around Nemichi Shrine (根道神社, Nemichi jinja) in the mountains. It was popularized through TV programs and word of mouth as the real life version of "Water Lilies" by the famous French painter Claude Monet. The beautiful Monet's Pond, has colored carp (錦鯉, Nishikigoi) swimming through its transparent waters and is great for taking Instagram photos. There are koi whose head patterns look like heart symbols in the pond, as well as gold carp for good luck. The History of Monet's Pond In 1999, the nearby flower seedling producers weeded and some carp were brought in by locals. It's purpose was not sightseeing, so it was mere chance that such natural beauty came to be. Golden Week in 2016 even attracted 3,000 tourists per day! Highlights and Recommended Seasons for Visiting Monet's Pond Photo：Monet's Pond The best time to visit Monet's Pond to experience its full beauty is during the fall when you can enjoy the magnificent view of the autumn leaves reflecting off the pond's surface. This can be seen from 1:10 in the video. We also recommend going in early May when the spring greenery is fresh or in the winter to see the beautiful snowscape. As the appearance will change considerably depending on the weather, we recommend avoiding rainy days and going at night. Access to Monet's pond is about 35 minutes from the Mino IC on the Tokai Hokuriku Expressway. You can also go to Gifu Prefecture through a sightseeing bus tour around Monet's pond and other surrounding areas. Sightseeing at Monet's Pond Photo：Grilled sweetfish Around Monet's Pond you'll find shops selling the famous "chimaki" (a dumpling wrapped in bamboo leaf), so be sure to give it a try if you get the chance! We also recommend trying the specialty eel or sweetfish (ayu cuisine) lunch in Seki. When visiting Monet's pond, you can visit the Gifu Prefecture Hundred Year Park, Kasuga Shrine, Asakurayama Promenade, Kifune Shrine, Kaore Valley, Takaga Valley, Seki Blacksmithing Tradition Museum, Koka Shrine, Horado Enku Memorial Hall, Roadside Station "Rusten Hola Do," and more. The Itadori Hydrangea Festival is held in early summer in Seki, so be sure to visit Flower Park Itatori when the hydrangeas are at their best. Summary of Monet's Pond This time, we introduced a 4K video of Monet's Pond, a pond as beautiful as beautiful as an impressionist painting. Monet's Pond is perfect for those who want to enjoy the charming scenic beauty of nature, as well as photography lovers. Book a hotel in Seki and set out on a sightseeing trip to enjoy the amazing views in the area. If you like the artistic scenery of Monet's Pond, we recommend visiting Monet's Garden in Kitagawa, Kochi Prefecture. The landscape of Monet's Pond changes depending on the weather. We recommend that you check the weather forecast on the day you plan your sightseeing trip so that you aren't disappointed because you weren't able to see it at its most beautiful. ◆Monet's Pond◆ 【Address】〒501-2901 1643-17 Itadori Kamigase, Seki City, Gifu Prefecture 【Access】About 35 minutes from Tokai Hokuriku Expressway Mino IC 【Closures】None 【Average time spent here】1-2 hours 【Parking】Available. Up to 200 standard vehicles 【Telephone No】0581-57-2111 【Admission fee】None 【Notes】Feeding the fish is prohibited The transparency of the pond changes depending on the weather. 【Tripadvisor】Monet's Pond https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g1019693-d12479612-Reviews-Monet_s_Pond-Seki_Gifu_Prefecture_Tokai_Chubu.html

Ise Jingu Shrine in Mie Prefecture - A Shrine with 2,000 Years of History This video, titled "【伊勢神宮】 SOUL of JAPAN　ISE-JINGU" was uploaded by "ISE-JINGU Official Channel" (伊勢神宮 公式チャンネル (ISE-JINGU)). It introduces Ise Jingu Shrine in Ise, Mie, in Japan's Tokai region. Ise Jingu Shrine is one of Japan's major tourist destinations and has ancient roots. Be sure to follow along with the video as you read on! About Ise Jingu Shrine - A Popular Tourist Destination in Mie Prefecture Photo：Mie Prefecture, Ise Jingu Shrine・Toyouke Daijingu In 2016, the 42nd G7 Summit was held in Shima, Mie. Ise Jingu Shrine in Ise, Mie is a highly popular tourist destination not only for Japanese tourist, but also for tourists from abroad. It is called "Oise-san" or "Dai-jingu-san" and officially called "Jingu." There are 125 shrines, including Inner Shrine where Amaterasu Omikami is enshrined as the ancestral deity of the Imperial family, and the Outer Shrine where Toyouke no Omikami is enshrined as the god of food, clothing, shelter, and industry, and they are collectively referred to as "Jingu." The video introduces attractive spots at Ise Jingu Shrine for around 5 minutes. "Toyouke Daijingu" is shown from 0:45, "Shikinen Sengu," where a lot of historical materials are displayed, is shown from 1:24 and the inner shrine is shown from 1:54. The murmur of the Isuzu River (五十鈴川) at the entrance of Ise Jingu and the spiritual atmosphere is very soothing. The History of Ise Jingu Shrine Photo：Mie Prefecture, Ise Jingu shrine approach The inner shrine has a history of about 2,000 years and outer shrine about 1500 years. Originally, Amaterasu Omikami was enshrined in Nara, but was moved around the country in search of a more suitable location and finally settled in Ise, Mie. Because of its long history, historical figures such as Taira no Kiyomori, Ashikaga Yoshimitsu, and Oda Nobunaga have also visited the temple. Worshipping From the Outer Shrine To the Inner Shrine Photo：Mie Prefecture, Ise Jingu outer shrine・Tsukiyomi-no-miya entrance When you pray at Ise Jingu Shrine, you have to worship from the outer shrine and then the inner shrine. This is because Toyouke no Omikami, the deity of the outer shrine, is the god of food for Amaterasu no Mikami, the deity of the inner shrine, and it was customary to offer food to her before visiting the inner shrine, and it is still customary to visit the shrines in that order. Enjoy Tourist Sites Around Ise Jingu! Photo：Mie Prefecture, Shiroko Station・Suzuka City Billboard There are many tourist sites in the city, such as Suzuka Circuit, Nagashima Spa Land and Shima Spain Village (志摩スペイン村). Because of this, the number of tourists continued to break a records for the third year in a row and in 2018, at a total of 42.6 million tourists. Out of 42.6 million people, Ise Jingu was visited by more than 8 million tourists, solidifying Ise Jingu as a major tourist destination in Mie Prefecture. Summary of Ise Jingu Shrine Photo：Ise Jingu Shrine, Mie Prefecture The video introduces Ise Jingu Shrine, a tourist destination in Mie Prefecture. Ise Jingu Shrine is a sightseeing spot with a very spiritual and solemn atmosphere. You can feel the solemnity just by watching the video. Be sure to visit Ise Jingu Shrine when you travel to Mie Prefecture! ◆Ise Jingu Shrine｜General Information◆ 【Address】1 Ujitachi, Ise, Mie 516-0023 【Access】Access to the outer shrine is a 5-minute walk from Iseshi Station. The inner shrine is about a 30-minute walk from Isuzugawa Station 【Admission Fee】Free 【Hours】5am to 6pm 【Closures】No holidays 【Parking】Available 【Telephone】0596-24-1111 【Official Website】Ise Jingu Shrine https://www.isejingu.or.jp/ 【Tripadvisor】Ise Jingu Shrine https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g303159-d555336-Reviews-Ise_Jingu-Ise_Mie_Prefecture_Tokai_Chubu.html

About the Video of Kawazu Cherry Blossom Festival If you're looking for a place where you can enjoy viewing cherry blossoms and feeling Japan's unique spring atmosphere, then look no further! There are many others just like yourself looking to relax among the cherry blossoms and enjoy the fresh spring breeze. Kawazu Cherry Blossom Festival, held in Kawazu, Shizuoka Prefecture is a festival where you can do just that. The beautiful 4K footage allows you enjoy the blissful atmosphere of the Kawazu Cherry Blossom Festival. Be sure to follow along as you read this article! Izu's Popular Kawazu Cherry Blossom Festival Photo：Kawazu Cherry Blossom Festival The Kawazu Cherry Blossom Festival, held in Kawazu, Izu, is a beautiful festival where you can see the town of Kawazu covered with pink cherry blossoms. Kawazu Sakura is a type of cherry blossom tree that starts blooming earlier than most other cherry blossom trees, starting from around early February to early March. The origin of Kawazu cherry blossoms dates back to 1955, when one of the local townspeople found a tree growing amongst the weeds in his back yard. Back then the trees were called "Komine Sakura," but were renamed to ‘Kawazu Sakura’ in 1974. The Kawazu Sakura is characterized by its large petals and pink color, and when the cherry blossoms are in full bloom, a flurry of falling cherry blossoms creates the most beautiful scenery. The Kawazu Cherry Blossom Festival is a popular festival that approximately one million tourists visit every year. People enjoy the festival by taking a walk along the river, or having a picnic in the park while drinking and enjoying food from food stands. It's often crowded so you might have to save a spot for a picnic beforehand. There are outhouses at the festival, along with regular restrooms throughout the park. Come experience the beautiful cherry blossoms at the Kawazu Cherry Blossom Festival! The Beauty of the Kawazu Cherry Blossom Festival Source :YouTube screenshot The Kawazu Cherry Blossom Festival in Kawazu, Izu is a must-see festival for anyone interested in cherry blossoms or Japan's beautiful scenery. The cherry blossoms can be enjoyed in various ways depending on the location and time. There are approximately 8,000 cherry trees in Kawazu and about 850 along the Kawazu River. During full-bloom, these trees showcase the beauty of Kawazu. The one along the the Kawazu river are especially beautiful. You can enjoy the beautiful cherry blossoms at full bloom along the river for more than 4 kilometers! We recommend that you try to find your own little secret spot to avoid the crowds. This video shows you the cherry blossoms in full bloom at various spots along the Kawazu River at 0:28. Was there anything that caught your eye? There are also places where the cherry blossoms are lit up at night as well. It's an impressive sight that you can only experience at night time. Be sure to check it out if you have the chance, as it's one of the best parts of the Kawazu Cherry Blossom Festival. There are also other cherry blossom festivals in the Kawazu area where you can see the cherry blossoms and rape blossoms in harmony with one another. Enjoy Authentic Japanese Cherry Blossoms in Kawazu Source :YouTube screenshot During the Kawazu Cherry Blossom Festival in Izu, there are several spots we recommend visiting to enjoy the beautiful cherry blossoms. As we mentioned above, one of the ways you can enjoy the cherry blossoms is with the illumination at night, shown at 5:02 in the video. Access to the cherry blossoms illumination is 20 minutes walking from Kawazu Station on the Izu Kyuko Line. It's an incredible scenec location, so don't forget to bring your camera! We also recommend going around and collecting your shuin stamp when visiting the Kawazu Cherry Blossom Festival. There's a red stamp that's only available during the festival at Seisoku Temple nearby, so be sure not to miss it! Enjoying both the cherry blossoms and collecting your red seal stamps will make for an unforgettable trip. Summary of Izu's Kawazu Cherry Blossom Festival The video, created by "Discover Nippon," is a beautiful 4K video that introduces the charm of the Kawazu Cherry Blossom Festival in Izu. If you're curious about the Kawazu Cherry Blossom Festival after reading this article, be sure to check out the video! If you love cherry blossoms or spring in Japan, then you'll love this festival! Enjoy the beautiful scenery of Kawazu! 【Official Website】Kawazu Cherry Blossom Festival Info｜Official Website https://www.kawazuzakura.net/ 【Official Website】Kawazu, Kamogun, Shizuoka, Japan Town Official Website http://www.town.kawazu.shizuoka.jp/

A Mysterious Power Spot in a Valley Surrounded by Mountains? More About the Unexplored Area of Kizuro, Japan This video "Unexplored Japan (Kizuro) (日本の秘境 (木津呂))" was created by "hashieemov". Kizuro is an unexplored region in Japan in the town called Kiwa (紀和町, kiwachou). Kiwa is located in Kumano city, Mie prefecture in the Tokai region of Japan. It is one of the most uniquely structured settlements to be found in Japan and attracts many tourists as it is thought to be a power spot. It has also been featured in the Japanese TV show "Nani kore, Chinkyakkei" (What's this? 100 Famous, Bizarre Views) and looks identical to a location from the movie "Your name" (君の名は, kiminonawa). In this video, we introduce to you the Kizuro Village through aerial drone photography. Kizuro: An Unexplored Region of Japan. Why Is It Shaped So Strangely? Source :YouTube screenshot Kizuro Village is located in a basin surrounded by mountains in a town called Kiwa in Kumano city, Mie prefecture. It is situated in the center of a white, oval area of land with a river running through it. The unusual and unique shape of the terrain is one of the characteristics of this small, ancient settlement. You can take a look at the terrain from 0:07 in the video. Depending on which direction you look at it from, the terrain appears circular and the highest point from which you can see it is the top of Mt. Shimzau (嶋津山, shimazuyama) in Kumanogawa, Shingu in Wakayama prefecture. The mountain path is very steep and rugged so please take a map if you plan on climbing it. The mouth of the Kitayama river (北山川, kitayamagawa) which surrounds Kizuro Village is part of the Kumano pilgrimage which is registered as a World Heritage Site. The settelement of Kizuro is thought to have been formed approximately 1500 years ago after the eruption of a volcano caused the land to sink and was slowly eroded by the surrounding Kitagawa river, the shape of the settlement is still changing today. It has become a popular tourist spot because of its photographic terrain which looks similar to a UFO landing spot, with tour buses even operating in the area. There is an ancient practice in Asia called Feng Shui that can be used to forecast or predict fortune by reading the energy in an area. Feng Shui masters believe that the unique terrain surrounding Kizuro Village makes it a very important power spot. Being referred to as an "unexplored region" you would think that the area is very isolated, and therefore deserted, however in 2015 there were eleven people living in the area. The main industry is forestry, and lumber from the area (Kumano) is very valuable and is sold at a high price. Outdoor Activities in Kizuro, an Unexplored Region of Japan Photo：Camp In the opening of the video you can see a car, however there are very few car parks in the area and it could also be said that the access is rather inconvenient. However, a lot of outdoor activities can be enjoyed nearby such as camping, mountain climbing, an observation deck, rafting, Ikadanori and the flower grotto. It is a great spot to experience outdoor adventures! Kizuro Village Is Also a Popular Hot Spring Area Source :Official home page of the Yunokuchi Onsen The unexplored region of Kizuro is also popular as a hot spring area. Many people come to visit Yunokuchi Onsen which is surrounded by the Kumano mountains where the water is said to have healing benefits. Summary of Japan's Unexplored Kizuro Village Photo：Kizuro What do you think of Japan's Kizuro Village? If you decide to visit Kizuro Village, there are many other tourist spots you can enjoy in the area, such as the Maruyama-senmai Rice Field, Shishiiwa and Onigajou. You can access Kizuro from Kumano city center in approximately 60 minutes by car. For more information, please send any questions to the Shimazu tourist bureau (嶋津観光局, shimazukankoukyoku) (self-proclaimed as the smallest tourist bureau in Japan). 【Official Website】The Self-proclaimed smallest tourist bureau in Japan: Shimazu tourist bureau http://shimadu.iinaa.net/

Yunoshimakan: A Tangible Cultural Property at Gero Onsen in Gifu Prefecture This video, titled "[Gero Onsen Yunoshima-kan] A Tangible Cultural Property" (【 下呂温泉 湯之島館 】 登録有形文化財), was created by "Multicopter Operating Drone Aerial photography" (マルチコプターオペレーティング ドローン 空撮). Yunoshimakan is a long-standing ryokan in Gero Onsen, established in 1931. Gero Onsen is one of Japan’s most famous hot springs, and Yunoshimakan is located at the top of a hill overlooking the town of Gero. The building was designated as a Tangible Cultural Property in 1947. In 1949, Yunoshimakan was designated a "Government Registered International Tourist Inn No. 8," by the Japanese government, which certifies that the hotel meets certain standards to ensure that foreign visitors to Japan can stay at the hotel with peace of mind. The ryokan has had the honor of accommodating the previous Emperor Showa in 1949, as well as the former Emperor Akihito in 1977. Gero Onsen's Yunoshimakan is popular on hotel and ryokan review and comparison websites for its excellent hospitality. Enjoy the charm of Gero Onsen's Yunoshimakan's vast 50,000-square-meter grounds in the amazing aerial footage filmed using the latest drone technology. Yunoshimakan: Enjoy a Variety of Deluxe Meals, Such as Hida Beef Cuisine, a Specialty of Gifu Prefecture, at Gero Onsen Source :YouTube screenshot Gero Onsen's Yunoshimakan offers a traditional Japanese-style dinner, where courses are brought to each individual room. Some examples of the menu are Hida beef sirloin steak and river fish dishes, such as ayu (sweetfish) and amago (red-spotted eel) caught in the local Masuda River, all of which are made from locally caught fish and locally raised livestock. They also offer a wide range of alcoholic-beverages, mainly from the Hida region. These sumptuous meals can be seen at 2:00 in the video. Breakfast, where you can sample a variety of Hida specialties, is served in a hall on the 8th floor. >br> A kid’s menu is also available for those traveling as a family. Yunoshimakan: A Traditional Japanese-Style Ryokan at Gero Onsen Source :YouTube screenshot In the Muromachi period (1336-1573), the poet and Buddhist monk Banri Shukyu, referred to Kusatsu, Arima, and Yushima as Japan's three most famous hot springs, and the Confucian philosopher of the Edo Period (1603-1868), Hayashi Razan, also quoted his words, making Gero widely known as one of Japan's most famous hot springs. The origin of the name Yunoshimakan is also derived from the ancient name of the place "Yushima" (lit. Island of Hot Springs). The springs of Gero Onsen are classified as simple alkaline hot springs with a source temperature of 55° Celsius and a pH level of 8.9. Gero Onsen is effective in treating neuralgia, myalgia, stiff shoulders, soreness, chronic digestive disorders, sensitivity to cold, fatigue, and more. The therapeutic water keeps your skin moist, and it's known as "Bijin no Yu" (a beauty spring). In the main building, there are rooms with elaborate designs, including an open-air bath, a Japanese garden, and guest rooms. Amenities are also provided at the hot springs, so there's no need to worry about bringing your own. You can check out the hot springs in the video at 1:27. There are several hot springs in the ryokan. Which one caught your eye? Tourist Spots Near Yunoshimakan at Gero Onsen Source :YouTube screenshot Gero Onsen is surrounded by the mountains, and due to the steepness of the mountains in Hida, it used to be a place for Shugendo (Japanese mountain asceticism) in the Asuka Period. At an elevation of 767m (2,500 ft.), each season offers various scenic views, such as green leaves and beautiful flowers. You can enjoy strolling around the woods and bird-watching on the trekking course or see fish swimming in the streams. Check out the video at 2:12 to see the beautiful scenery of Gero Onsen. Summary of Yunoshimakan at Gero Onsen Travel agencies offer various kinds of tours for Gero Onsen's Yunoshimakan. Be sure to check out the official website to see the prices and plans they offer each season. This video showed you an aerial view of Gero Onsen Yunoshimakan, a historical inn with hot springs offering ultimate relaxation. Step away from your busy city life and take a deep breath in the beautiful natural environment of Hida! ◆Outline of Gero Onsen Yunoshimakan◆ 【Address】645 Yunoshima, Gero City, Gifu 509-2207 【Access】5 minutes car ride from JR Gero station 【Parking】Free parking is available 【Phone number】0576-25-4126 【Official Website】Gero Onsen Yunoshimakan, A Tangible Cultural Property http://www.yunoshimakan.co.jp/english/ 【Tripadvisor】Yunoshimakan https://www.tripadvisor.com/Hotel_Review-g788306-d1075236-Reviews-Yunoshimakan-Gero_Gifu_Prefecture_Tokai_Chubu.html

Introducing a tourist information video for Narusawa, Yamanashi. This video introduces Narusawa, Narumitsuru county, Yamanashi in Japan's Kanto region, using time lapse and an air footage from a drone. It was produced by “Narusawa Sightseeing Site.” The title of the video is “Narusawa tour PR movie（鳴沢村観光PRムービー）”. Narusawa, Minamitsuru in Yamanashi is located at the bottom of Mt. Fuji, surrounded by nature. Narusawa, Minamitsuru, Yamanashi, in Fuji Hakone Izu national park, has an elevation of ~3,300 ft. Be sure to watch the video as you follow along with this article to learn more about Narusawa, a place where many tourists come to visit and enjoy the view of the beautiful, World Cultural Heritage site, Mt.Fuji. Sightseeing at Narusawa, Yamanashi Photo：Narusawa Ice Cave Aokigahara Forest is a very dense and wide sea of trees. "Narusawa Ice Cave," which you can see in the video at 0:19, is a sacred place created by nature. We recommend walking around Fujigoko, Sankodai, Gokodai as well as one of the hiking routes of Mt. Fuji to experience the magnificent Japanese nature. Enjoy the Beautiful View of Mt. Fuji in Narusawa, Yamanashi Photo：Mt. Fuji Fuji, which takes on different appearances depending on the season and time of day, is great for taking Instagram photos. Watch the video at 0:31 to see how the shadow of Mt Fuji appears over Susono city. The shadow of Mt. Fuji floating in a sea of clouds is a very rare view only available from a viewpoint close to the top of another mountain. Pearl Fuji, which can be seen at 0:37 in the video, shows a full moon seemingly resting on the top of Mount Fuji. It's a spectacular view that can only be seen if the weather is just right. One of the appeals of climbing Mount Fuji is that you can enjoy the magnificent nature. (Also the bragging rights that come with it). There are several different ways to enjoy sightseeing at Mt. Fuji. If you are climbing Mt Fuji, look up the stars from the 5th station. Enjoy the cherry blossom views of Tongenji Temple when the temperatures warm up in the spring, watch the maple leaves turn a magnificent red in the fall, admire the scenery of the nearby villages, or enjoy the views around Mt. Fuji. Activities and Gourmet Food in Narusawa, Yamanashi Photo：Hoto noodle Try different activities in the nature of Narusawa, Yamanashi. Fujiten Snow resort, Forest Adventure Fuji, Narusawa Ikiki park, and Okuniwa nature park (which you can see in the video at 2:02) are all great places you can visit. Unsurprisingly, several golf courses are also available in the magnificent nature of Narusawa, Yamanashi, so if you enjoy playing golf be sure to check it out. For gourmet food, we recommend you visit Koyodai Tenbo Rest house and Roadside Station Narusawa in the Fuji Goko area. The local specialty cuisine includes “Hoto noodles” and “Yoshida Udon.” Roadside Station Narusawa also has the “Narusawa Museum of Mt Fuji” where you can learn about the history and nature of Mt. Fuji and the surrounding area. There is a life-sized model of dinosaur, a natural walking path in a lava tube, and an observatory to enjoy a whole view of Mt. Fuji. Fun events that occur throughout the year in Narusawa include: “Narusawa Tsutsuji Festival,” “Narusawa Harvest Festival,” “Narusawa Agriculture Festival,” “Fuji Narusawa Koyo Roadrace,” and the “Blueberry Festival.” We also recommend booking a hotel or ryokan near Kyuka village and enjoying the natural hot springs. Summary of Narusawa, Yamanashi As you can see in the video, there is so much to see and enjoy in the nature around Mt. Fuji. Which sightseeing spot captured your attention? There are many more popular tourist attractions such as “Blueberry picking,” “Hot springs Yurari,” where you can relax in an onsen with the spectacular Mt. Fuji right in front of your eyes, the “Paddy field,” “Narusawa indoor tennis court,” and more. Be sure to visit Narusawa and discover your favorite tourist spot! If you want to enjoy the fascinating natural scenery to your heart's content, please visit these popular locations in Narusawa, Yamanashi 【Official Website】Narusawa, Narumitsuru, Yamanashi, Town Hall Website https://www.vill.narusawa.yamanashi.jp/forms/top/top.aspx 【Official Website】Home page, Narusawa Official Sightseeing site Narusawa Sansaku Guide https://www.narusawa-kanko.jp/

Mie Prefecture’s Traditional Handicraft- Iga Kumihimo This video is “TEWAZA- Iga Kumihimo Braided Cord,” introducing Iga Kumihimo, produced by “Japan Traditional Crafts Aoyama Square.” Iga Kumihimo is a traditional handicraft that has gained a lot of attention thanks to the popular animated movie “Your Name.” It has been popular since ancient times, used to make Kimono accessories, such as Obi straps. Kumihimo’s charm lays in its beautiful design, which has been hand-braided using elaborate techniques. Let’s peek into the beautiful world of Iga Kumihimo, where the craftman’s amazing attention to detail is packed into his crafts, and enjoy the traditional Japanese culture. The video shows a craftsman carefully making Iga Kumihimo by hand. It's rare footage that allows us an inside look at Iga Kumihimo The Charm of the Iga Area, Home of Iga Kumihimo Photo：Ise Shrine Iga City (伊賀市, Iga-Shi), a major producer of Iga Kumihimo, is a small town located in the mountains of Mie Prefecture. Mie Prefecture (三重県, Mie-Ken), in the Tokai region of Japan. It is said that the Iga Area was once home to many Ninjas, and is still attracting people’s attention as the “Ninja Village.” In the neighboring area Ise City, there is Ise Shrine, which has been worshiped since ancient times. There are many other attractive sightseeing spots in Mie prefecture as well, such as Nabana no Sato, and Meoto-Iwa. Take your time and enjoy the area. The History of the Traditional Handicraft, Iga Kumihimo Source :YouTube screenshot Braiding has a long history in Japan, dating back to the introduction of Buddhism during the Nara period (710-794 AD). The technique of Iga Kumihimo, which is said to have originally been used for Buddhist robes and sutras, has changed over time as it has been used for Japanese clothing accessories such as obi fasteners. At present, Iga Kumihimo is popular not only for making obi fasteners, but also in making accessories, necklace key chains, straps, charms, accessory cases, ties, bracelets, neck straps, and so on. You can see some of the finished products from 3:11 of the video. The Process of Braiding Iga Kumihimo Source :YouTube screenshot The main process of making Iga Kumihimo braids is to use silk or gold thread and to braid it up using a traditional tool called a “Kumidai.” You can see the threads dyed in various colors at 0:29 in the video. "Thread measuring" is the next step you can see from 0:36 in the video. This determines the length and number of threads. In this video, nine thin threads are bundled together to make a single thread used for Kumihimo braiding. Finally, it becomes a “Braid.” This process is introduced at 0:54 in the video. Each workshop braids by following the instructions called “Ayagaki,” which have been passed down from one generation to the next. The craftsman says that the “High loom,” used in the “braiding” in the video, can catch many more bobbins compared to other stands, and that lets them create complicated patterns. In order to knit beautiful IGA braids, the skill of a craftsman who has been making braids for many years is essential. You can learn about the history and culture of Iga Kumihimo, its techniques, and how to make it at the “Iga Tradition Hall –Iga Kumihimo Center Kumi-no- Sato” located in Iga City. You can also experience making various kinds of works such as key chains and bracelets with Iga Kumihimo. Summary of Iga Kumihimo Source :YouTube screenshot The craftsman explains at 2:42 in the video that, "Kumihimo can stretch because of the diagonal lattice weave. It adapts to the body," and that "a cord made properly with a high loom will stay snug, from morning until you come back home." Iga Kumihimo is a traditional handicraft that is popular among many people due to its high degree of perfection. Each hand-braided piece is truly a work of art. If you are interested in this traditional handicraft after reading this article, why not try it yourself? You can purchase by mail order, and they offer beginner kits so those who have never tried it before can experience the traditional Japanese culture of Iga Kumihimo! 【Official website】Japan Traditional Crafts Aoyama Square https://kougeihin.jp/en/

Video Introduction of Yume no Tsuribashi in Sumata Gorge This video, titled "Sumata Gorge｜Yume no Tsuribashi with GoPro [4K]" (寸又峡 夢の吊り橋 with GoPro[4K]), was uploaded by "NOMAD LIFE." It introduces Yume no Tsuribashi, a famous tourist attraction in Shizuoka, Japan. Yume no Tsuribashi - A Bucket List Destination in Shizuoka, Japan Photo：Sumata Gorge, Kawanehon, Shizuoka Located in Kawanehon, Shizuoka lies Yume no Tsuribashi (Dream Suspension Bridge), a suspension bridge that should be on anyone's bucket list. It is one of the most famous sightseeing spots in Japan, and crossing the suspension bridge over the milky blue lake is truly an unforgettable experience. Originally, Yume no Tsuribashi at Sumata Gorge was used as a path for villagers and lumberjacks to come and go. The forestry industry was thriving in the area around Sumata Gorge, and it's said that there were many villages in the area. Nowadays, it attracts attention not as a road for daily life but as a tourist attraction, and many people visit the area every year. With a total length of 90 meters and a height of 8 meters, this suspension bridge is truly one of dreams! The deck, made of wooden planks, has many gaps and no side walls, making it a thrilling suspension bridge. Due to weight restrictions, only 10 people can cross the bridge at a time. Furthermore, during the tourist season, the bridge is restricted to one-way traffic. Check out the video below to see how the thrilling Yume no Tsuribashi is crossed. [Video] 1:44 - Crossing Yume no Tsuribashi Cherry Blossoms, Autumn Leaves, and Other Seasonal Attractions and Activities to Enjoy Near Yume no Tsuribashi Photo：Sumata Gorge, Kawanehon, Shizuoka The area around Yume no Tsuribashi is also popular as a spot to enjoy the seasons, including cherry blossoms and autumn leaves. If you take a steam locomotive from Sumata Gorge to the Oi River, you can see approximately 280 Someiyoshino cherry trees from late March to early April each year. In addition, from October to November, when the beautiful autumn colors are in season, visitors can enjoy viewing the autumn foliage from Yume no Tsuribashi in Sumata Gorge. The area around Sumata Gorge is an area where one can enjoy the great outdoors to the fullest. Fishing and trekking, as well as campgrounds, make this a spot full of attractions for outdoors enthusiasts. Hiking and driving courses are well maintained and can be enjoyed by families, couples, and friends. You can also buy cute souvenirs at the stylish retro café Seiko Udoku Village (晴耕雨読village), which offers a great view of Okuoikojo Station. You can also have a delicious lunch at café Uemaru or Suikoen. One of the attractions of this area is that you can enjoy a one-day trip to Sumatakyo Onsen. The area is lined with popular inns, where you can enjoy local delicacies harvested from the surrounding mountains for dinner. Things to Be Aware of When Visiting Yume no Tsuribashi Photo：Sumata Gorge, Kawanehon, Shizuoka Yume no Tsuribashi in Sumata Gorge is one of the most famous sightseeing spots in Japan. Many tourists visit from all over Japan to catch a glimpse of the fantastic atmosphere. However, there are a few things you should know in advance. Because Yume no Tsuribashi is located deep in the mountains, entry is prohibited after sunset. Furthermore, the entire tour of the Sumata Gorge Promenade Course takes approximately 60 to 80 minutes, so visitors should allow plenty of time for this tour. In addition, be sure to wear appropriate clothing. The path to Yume no Tsuribashi has many steep slopes and stairs, and is made up of gravel. Therefore, it's recommended that you wear comfortable sneakers. Yume no Tsuribashi is also a very popular spot for taking Instagram photos in Japan due to its fantastic scenery. However, the bridge can be somewhat wobbly, and some people accidentally drop their smartphones or cameras while getting absorbed in taking pictures. Such an accident can really kill the mood, so please be careful. Besides that, it's recommended that visitors check the weather forecast in advance as roads may be closed on days when the weather is bad. [Video] 2:24 - Steep stairs Summary of Yume no Tsuribashi Photo：Sumata Gorge, Kawanehon, Shizuoka In this article we introduced Yume no Tsuribashi, a famous tourist attraction in Shizuoka's Sumata Gorge that should be on any bucket list. Visitors can enjoy the scenery of Japan's four seasons here, with cherry blossoms in spring, autumn leaves in fall, snow in winter, and beautiful greenery in the summer. It's a popular tourist attraction where you can really experience nature in Japan. The view from Yume no Tsuribashi is truly spectacular! It attracts many visitors. There are inns, campgrounds, and hot springs in the vicinity as well, so be sure to enjoy it however you like. To get to Yume no Tsuribashi, first take the Shimada Kanaya IC to the parking lot of Sumatakyo Onsen (about 90 minutes). From there, it's a 40-minute walk from the parking lot to Yume no Tsuribashi. Although it takes some time to get there, it usually passes quickly thanks to the beauty of the surrounding nature of Sumata Gorge. Be sure to check out the video to see the fantastical scenery of Yume no Tsuribashi! 【TripAdvisor】Sumata Gorge https://www.tripadvisor.jp/Attraction_Review-g1121220-d1313698-Reviews-Sumatakyo_Valley-Kawanehon_cho_Haibara_gun_Shizuoka_Prefecture_Tokai_Chubu.html

Introducing the Prayer "Okagura" of Ise Shrine in Mie Prefecture! This is a video produced by "Ise Shrine Official Channel (ISE-JINGU)" called "[Ise Shrine] Shrine Devotional Prayer Okagura ISE-JINGU" (【伊勢神宮】神宮のご祈祷　御神楽　ISE-JINGU). Ise Shrine is a shrine with a long history that has been worshipped in Japan since the time of mythology. The god of the Imperial Grand Shrine (the inner shrine), is Amaterasu Omikami, and the god of Toyokami Grand Shrine (the outer shrine), is Toyouke Omikami. This charming shrine with plenty of nature is located just past Uji Bridge, the entrance to the inner shrine, and is affectionately called "Oise-san" by tourists. Please enjoy the prayer of Ise Shrine, as it's not something you get to see every day. The Prayer "Okagura" at Ise Shrine, Mie Prefecture Photo：Miko with Kagura bells Kagura, dedicated at the Kagura Hall of Ise Shrine, is a ceremony of exorcism in which sacred sake is served before the gods. The ritual prayer, introduced at 0:35 in the video, is one of the most important rituals of Shinto. After the ritual prayer, there is a dance performance (0:53) that shows Yamato-mai, and from 1:08 a long ceremonial dance by the Prince of Lanling. After the Kagura, worshippers pray, as seen at 1:40 in the video Ise Shrine, Mie Prefecture - A Historic Tourist Attraction With Tons of Highlights Photo：Ise Shrine Many tourists visit Ise City, Mie Prefecture to visit Ise Shrine. Don't forget your shuin when you visit! After worship, it's recommended that you purchase a good luck talisman. At Ise Shrine, there are also festivals, such as the Kagura Festival, the Shin-an Festival, and the Kamigyo Festival. We definitely recommend checking these out. On the approach to the outer shrine of Ise Shrine, there's "Houonkan (1F Senokuniya, Syoujirou / 2F Magatama Tei)," "mirepoix," "French cuisine Bon Vivant," "Mitsuhashi Ponju," "Ise Kikuichi," "Akafuku Gekumae Special Shops” and other places where you can enjoy lunch and local gourmet! You can enjoy Japanese sweets such as Akafuku mochi and dumplings, and even eat around. After visiting the geku, go to the naiku where Amaterasu Omikami, the guardian deity of the Japanese people who reigns over the other the eight million gods, is enshrined. "Chōzuya," "Ujibashi," "Isuzu-gawa Mitarashi," "Takimaturinokami," "Goshogu," and "Kazahino minomiya," are full of attractions! There are hotels and inns such as "Toba International Hotel", "Shima Kanko Hotel Bay Suite" and "Ikadaso," so you can enjoy your trip to Ise-Shima even if you're staying overnight. Be sure to enjoy the "profit spot" and the power spot as well. Sightseeing Around Ise Shrine Photo：Okage Yokocho lanterns The area around Ise Jingu is also home to other attractions such as Tagamiya Shrine, Sarutahiko Shrine and Sarume Shrine, which are separate shrines on the grounds. If you have the chance, you should also check out the Imperial Grand Shrine, Ara Matsuri Shrine, Koyasu Shrine, Futami Okitama Shrine, and Meotoiwa in the Ise-Shima area. There are souvenir shops and delicious eateries in Okageyokocho and Oharai town, so be sure to keep your eyes peeled. Summary of Ise Shrine in Mie Prefecture In 2013, Shikinen Sengu was held at Ise Shrine in Mie Prefecture. This is the largest festival at Ise Jingu, where the Great God is relocated to the shrine pavilion, which is rebuilt once every 20 years. In May 2016, key figures from various countries gathered to hold the "G7 Summit," a meeting to discuss global economic and international issues, In Ise City. Ise Shrine is a very popular tourist spot in Japan, and we highly recommend visiting it. If you visit at the right time, you may be able to see the elegant prayers shown in the video, or see the Kagura exorcism. ◆Ise Shrine Introduction of facility outline◆ 【Address】1 Ujikancho, Ise City, Mie 516-0023 【Access】Geku is a 5-minute walk from Ise-shi Station, Naiku is a 30-minute walk from Isuzugawa Station 【Hours】5: 00 - 18: 00 【Closures】None 【Parking】Available 【Telephone No】0596-24-1111 【Entrance fee】Free 【Official Website】Ise Shrine https://www.isejingu.or.jp/en/index.html 【Official Website】Ise City Tourism Association https://ise-kanko.jp/main/english/ 【Tripadvisor】Ise City https://www.tripadvisor.com/Tourism-g303159-Ise_Mie_Prefecture_Tokai_Chubu-Vacations.html

Koi Carp: Loved by the Japanese Since Long Ago This video is called ‘Koi Carp 〜Swimming Art〜 (錦鯉 〜泳ぐ芸術〜)’ and made by JVT Channel (JVTチャンネル). The video shows you colorful koi swimming elegantly. Koi are aquarium fish with a long history. Historical records show koi being used as the inspiration for painting patterns of items exhibited at expos during the Taisho Period (1912～1926). They are actually an invasive species to Japan. The specially bred fish have been bred into many different varieties. Koi are kept as aquarium fish in aquariums and ponds within Japanese gardens. Their characteristics are their beautiful patterns and striking colors. The average size of these fish is between 30 and 60 cm and their life span is around 30 years. Let’s take a look at why these fish are so attractive. The video shows you a koi farm and a competition that you don’t get an opportunity to see often. Be sure to check it out while reading this article. What Are Koi? Photo：Koi Koi were originally called "irogoi" (色鯉, colored carp), hanagoi (花鯉, flower carp), and "moyougoi" (模様鯉, patterned carp) in Japanese. They started to be called Nishikigoi (錦鯉, brocade carp) because of their luxurious designs reminiscent of a brocade. The Japanese brocade shown at 0:14 in the documentary video is a Japanese traditional silk fabric made by weaving variously colored threads. Koi were originally eaten as a food, then, one day, a unique fish with beautiful patterns appeared. There are many kinds of koi, such as red and white and tri-colored koi with red, white, and black. In addition to the Taisho Sanshoku (tri-color) and the Showa Sanshoku, there are some unusually colored ones, such as light yellow, autumn Green, tortoise shell patterned koi, reflective koi, five Colored koi, and gold and Peacock koi as well. How Are Koi Looked After? Source :YouTube screenshot It takes a lot of work to raise beautiful Nishikigoi. The Dainichi Koi Farm in Niigata Prefecture in Japan's Koshinetsu region, farms koi. At the farm, they strictly control water temperature and quality, as well as feeding schedules. They put great care into raising beautiful koi. They are also very particular about the feed given to their koi. This can be seen from 1:13 in the video. From 1:37, you can see many baby koi as well. Hiroshi Mano from Dainichi Koi Farm says in the interview, "The most important things are maintaining proper water temperature and quality. Beautiful koi are strong, healthy koi. From 3:27 in the video, you can see the annual National Koi Competition. Koi from the Dainichi Koi Farm were the winners of this competition. How to Get Your Very Own Japanese Koi There are many kinds of koi. In Japan, many people love koi. Koi with patterns or beautiful colors are sold at auctions for sometimes astronomically high prices. Furthermore, you can buy specially bred varieties of koi at online shops and Yahoo Japan Auctions, but they usually go for quite a bit of money. Some orders for Japanese koi come from overseas. The number of koi exported overseas is increasing year by year. Popular koi have been used as a motifs in traditional Japanese crafts as well. We recommend buying plates and chopstick holders with koi pattern designs. Summary of Japan's "Swimming Jewels" Photo：Koi In Japan, there are many kinds of aquarium fish, such as goldfish and Japanese rice fish. Among them, koi are loved by many people for their jewel-like beauty. Koi are born around Niigata Prefecture area. You can learn the history and the characteristics of koi at Nishikigoi no Sato in Niigata, the birthplace of koi, and at Fukuoka Koinosato Park in Fukuoka-machi, Toyama Prefecture in Japan's Hokuriku region, which is one of Japan’s most famous koi production towns. If you have a large landscape garden or a large aquarium and would like some koi of your own, try searching online or try out some auction sites to see if they have what you're looking for. You can see many koi with beautiful patterns in the video. Be sure to check out the video to enjoy the beauty of Japan's "swimming jewels."

A Heart-Warming Video Showing the Highlights of Hirayu Onsen Today we are showing you '平湯温泉PRムービー　フルバージョン　5分21秒'. This promotional video shows you Hirayu Hot Spring located in the Okuhida hot springs area in Takayama City, in snowy Gifu Prefecture. In the video, Yuyu, the mascot of the local Tourist Association, will show you around all the top spots. Yuyu falls in love with a beautiful woman in the video (at 1:30). Let’s learn about sightseeing at Hirayu hot springs, while following what happens to Yuyu’s love! Hirayu Onsen: A White Monkey Showed Takeda's Army Where It Was? Find Out the Secret History of Hirayu Onsen! Source :YouTube screenshot The Okuhida Hot Springs area of Takayama City in Gifu Prefecture is famous in Japan for its plentiful snow. This hot spring area consists of the Fukuji Hot Springs, Shinhirayu Hot Springs, Tochio Hot Springs, Shinhodaka Hot Springs and the Hirayu Hot Spring, the oldest hot spring in Okuhida. Hirayu Onsen was established in the Age of Civil War called the Sengoku Period (1467～1615). They say that the hot spring was found when a white monkey showed the exhausted Takeda Army where the hot spring was. Takeda's men recovered immediately after getting into the hot spring. Following that, Hirayu Onsen was developed into a therapeutic spa. The spring is said to be effective at treating intestinal diseases, rheumatoid arthritis, nerve pain and skin disease. Having said that, the Okuhida Hot Spring area in Takayama City in Gifu Prefecture is surrounded by mountains and it used to be referred to as a "hidden world." A tunnel connecting Nagano Prefecture and Gifu Prefecture has opened in recent years, and access to the area has improved dramatically. As seen from 1:17 in the video, many coach buses from large Japanese cities such as Tokyo, Osaka, Kyoto and Nagoya arrive at Hirayu Onsen bus terminal. The bus routes are operated by the Nohi Bus, the local bus company covering most of the Hirayu Onsen area. This area is in a convenient location, as you can visit secret hot springs, camp sites and famous Japanese tourist spots such as Matsumoto and Kamikochi. Delicious Local Delicacies! Check Out the Delicious Foods Served in the Many Inns Shown Throughout the Video Photo：Hoba Miso Making a good choice of Onsen and meals is rather important when choosing a hotel or ryokan, is it not? Please have a look at 2:36 in the video. It shows unusual, delicious Japanese foods from the Hirayu Onsen area such as softshell turtle hot pot, onsen soft-boiled eggs, and pickled steaks. In particular, Hoba Miso is a very famous Japanese food in the Okuhida Hot Springs area in Takayama City in Gifu Prefecture. It is often included in the accommodation package of ryokan inns. We'd like to recommend Nakamurakan and Okada Ryokan for those who are particular about Onsen quality and want to fully enjoy the interior of a ryokan. The rotenburo (open air bath) at Nakamurakan uses hot spring water straight from the source and you can refresh your mind and body. You can see inside Okada Ryokan using Google maps street view as well if you're interested. Even if you don't stay at one of these inns, you can still use their onsen facilities with a day pass as well! Tourist Hot Spots at Hirayu Onsen, Japan’s No. 1 Onsen Photo：Asian Black bear There are many beautiful tourist hot spots and attractions besides Onsen Ryokan and hotels at Hirayu Onsen in Okuhida Hot Springs. Here, we'll tell you about popular tourist attractions around Hirayu Onsen. Okuhida Bear Ranch (奥飛騨クマ牧場 Okuhida Kuma Bokujo) shown in the video from 3:04 keep the largest number of Asian Black Bear (ツキノワグマ Tsukinowaguma) in Japan. We recommend the Bear Fat (熊の油 Kumanoyu) souvenir. It has been used as a medicine by hunters in the Okuhida Hot Springs area for many years and is effective for skin problems. Next up is the Shinhotaka Ropeway (新穂高ロープウェイ). There is a ropeway near Hirayu Onsen in Okuhida Hot Springs, Takayama City in Gifu Prefecture. It is the only double-decker ropeway in Japan. It is also famous for its magnificent views of autumn leaves. Its viewpoint has an elevation of 2,156 meters. The superb views of the Northern Japanese Alps from the viewpoint make for amazing photos! Share them on your Instagram or keep them for scrap-booking! Sightseeing Around Hirayu Onsen Around Hirayu Onsen, there are many more sightseeing places that aren't included in the video. They are: Hirayu Great Falls (平湯大滝 Hirayu Ootaki), Alps Highway Hirayu (アルプス街道平湯 Arupusu Kaido Hirayu) , Hirayu History Museum (平湯民俗館 Hirayu Minzokukan) , Hirayu Shrine (平湯神社 Hirayu Jinja), Mt. Yakedake (焼岳 Yakedake), Kamikochi (上高地), Mt. Norikura (乗鞍岳 Norikuradake), Goshikigahara (五色ヶ原), Shirakawago (白川郷), Hidatakayama(飛騨高山), Hida Great Limestone Cave (飛騨大鍾乳洞 Hida Daishounyudo) and Hirayu Campsite (平湯キャンプ場 Hirayu Campujo). We recommend giving these places a visit if you're planning on coming to Hirayu Onsen. There are other activities that you can try to enjoy the beautiful nature of the Hirayu Onsen area, such as Rail Mountain Bike and the Hirayu Onsen Ski Resort. While you are sightseeing, don’t forget to try the delicious local foods such, as Hida Beef (飛騨牛 Hidagyu), Hida Pork (飛騨ポーク Hida Pork) and onsen soft-boiled Egg (温泉卵 Onsen Tamago). Summary of Hirayu Onsen It's not the biggest place when compared to other famous Japanese hot spring towns, but you can definitely refresh your mind and body and enjoy a peaceful time here. That’s Hirayu Onsen of Okuhida Hot Springs in Takayama City in Gifu Prefecture. By the time you finish watching the 5-minute video, you'll want to go and see Yuyu! By the way, what happened to Yuyu’s love?? 【Official Website】Gifu Prefecture Takayama City Hall Website http://www.city.takayama.lg.jp/ 【Official Website】Hirayu Onsen Tourism Association, Hirayu Onsen Ryokan Cooperative Society http://hirayuonsen.or.jp/

An Introduction to Food Models The food models, that look exactly like the real thing, are frequently seen at restaurants and souvenir shops in Japan. But have you ever thought about how they're made? The introductory video of food models is created by ANA Global Channel. It shows how artisans’ feel about food models, and their production methods. Food models are now known all over the world as modern Japanese artworks. The role of food models and how artisans make food models is explained in this article alongside the video. The Role of Food Models: A Japanese Craft Photo：Food models Food models are replicas made by artisans so that people can imagine what kind of dish is provided at the restaurant without having to enter. By displaying the replicas in show-window, people can get an idea of the food and prices. This removes the anxiety of going into a restaurant blind. It's hard to go into a restaurant you're on the fence about when you've got little to no information about it. Japanese food model artisans provide a remedy for this. Food Models Are Popular Among Overseas as Well Source :YouTube screenshot Food models are popular in both Japan and other countries due to their high- quality and wide variety of products. There are a lot of stores that sell food models on Kappa Bridge (合羽橋, Kappabashi) Utensils Street in Asakusa, Taito Tokyo. There are different kinds of merchandise such as accessories, key chains and smartphone cases as well. These are bought as souvenirs and gifts by international tourists. It is globally recognized as a modern Japanese culture and art. How Food Models Are Made Let’s see how artisans create artificial food. The method is shown after 1:35. First, they make a cast of the ingredients by pouring silicon over real food. From here, they create a model by pouring vinyl resin in the mold. After that, all that's left is to paint the model. When all the fake ingredients are created, they are combined to create a replica indistinguishable from the real thing. There are replicas of sushi, soba, pasta, and more. Food Model Trial Classes Taking the opportunity to try your hand at making a food model makes for a really fun time and we highly recommend checking it out when you come to Japan. They take about 2 hours to complete so it's not a huge time sink either. The trial class is shown in the video around 5:07. It has become very popular with foreign tourists because of its convenience. You also get to take an awesome souvenir home with you! Summary Source :YouTube screenshot This ANA Global Channel video introducing food samples made by Japanese artisans is a great way to learn more about Japan. If you like arts and crafts or are interested in food models and artisans, definitely don't miss out on the video Have you figured out which one is real yet? The quality is quite impressive.

Introducing Suruga Bamboo Ware This is a promotional video for Suruga Take Sensuji Zaiku (Suruga Bamboo Ware), created by Aoyama Square, a shop specializing in traditional Japanese crafts. Suruga Bamboo Ware is a traditional craft made from bamboo stems. Created using professional techniques whereby the craftsman creates flower vases, bug cages, and handbags by assembling thin strips cut from bamboo stems. In recent years, it has become popular with more modern items, such as bags and wind chimes. Today, we'll introduce in detail the highly valued traditional Japanese craft, Suruga Bamboo Ware. Be sure to follow along with the video! The History of Suruga Bamboo Ware ©SUN Modifying Due to rich bamboo resources, bamboo crafts were commonly used in daily life from olden times in the Suruga area, in Shizuoka prefecture. The origin of the craft is rooted in ancient history. Bamboo products like baskets and cages have been excavated from Toro ruins in this area, major ruins of the Yayoi period. In the Edo period, bamboo crafts established a position as side jobs for samurai. After retiring from the shogunate, Tokugawa Ieyasu lived in Sunpu Castle, and a local culture of bamboo craftsmen was established in the Suruga area. Suruga Bamboo Ware was recognized as national traditional craft by the Ministry of International Trade and Industry in 1976. How Suruga Bamboo Ware Is Made Source :YouTube screenshot The production process of Suruga Bamboo Ware is divided into 4 parts: Measuring and cutting bamboo, Bending, Weaving, and Assembly. Japanese timber bamboo (Madake) or Moso bamboo (Mosochiku) are used as materials, and strips are cut from their stalks. Flat strips are used for bamboo crafts in other areas, but Suruga Bamboo Ware uses round cut strips. They are made using a unique technique that involves bending the strips into round shapes and connecting them through weaving. The distinctive feature of Suruga Bamboo Ware is that all processes, from the cutting and measuring of bamboo to the finishing touches, are done by a single craftsman. A more detailed process is shown in the video at 0:25. Please enjoy the techniques of Suruga Bamboo Ware craftsman, Takahide Sugiyama. Suruga Bamboo Ware Products Source :YouTube screenshot There are many different Suruga Bamboo Ware products; snack trays, which are great for hosting guests, flower vases, tea cup saucers, small pouches, lightings such as lanterns and lamps, wind chimes/desktop wind bells, bug cages, and more. Beautiful Japanese style handbags are also popular. These products can be purchased on amazon and Japan’s major online retailer, Rakuten. Prices range from several thousands to several tens of thousands of Japanese yen (tens to hundreds of dollars), depending on the product. Summary of Suruga Bamboo Ware As introduced in the video, Suruga Bamboo Ware is traditional Japanese craft handmade by a single artisan. If you're looking to take in some Japanese culture in your daily life, we recommend purchasing some Suruga Bamboo Ware products. They make great souvenirs and gifts as well. 【Official website】Suruga Bamboo Ware "Shizuoka Bamboo-crafts Cooperative" http://www.takesensuji.jp/?mode=f8 【Official website】Japan Traditional Crafts Aoyama Square https://kougeihin.jp/en/

The X-2 Stealth Aircraft - From the Wings to the Engine, This Machine Is Homegrown This news report introduces the first flight of the domestically manufactured stealth aircraft, the X-2. It's titled "Where's the Hinomaru? The First Flight of the Domestically Manufactured Stealth Fighter (22/04/16)" (日の丸戦闘機”の行方は　国産ステルス機が初飛行(16/04/22)). The X-2 shown in the video is a domestically manufactured stealth aircraft. From the wings to the engine, everything is made in Japan. It became a popular topic in 2016 when it made its first flight. Japan's X-2 Stealth Aircraft Source :YouTube screenshot The X-2 is an experimental aircraft for advanced technology demonstrations commissioned by Mitsubishi Heavy Industries for the Technical Research and Development Division of the Japanese Ministry of Defense. 220 Japanese companies cooperated to develop this aircraft. The X-2 was named after the X1G, a modified Saab-Safir 91B high-lift research aircraft once used by the Defense Agency as an experimental aircraft. More than 90% of the X-2's parts were made in Japan, and it was developed under the name "Shin shin," which means Mt. Fuji. The X-2 was developed to demonstrate advanced military technology as a future domestically produced fighter, and to accumulate knowledge of stealth technology. Stealth fighters are characterized by their small size and shortened operational periods of a few hundred hours. Their engines are small and they are not equipped with weapons. The Body of the Japanese X-2 Stealth Aircraft Source :YouTube screenshot The Japanese stealth aircraft is equipped with a mechanism called "chine," which is used to reduce and absorb radar reflection and absorption, and the surface of the fuselage is specially coated with composite materials such as ceramic and silicon carbide. The X-2 has a total length of about 14 meters. Tests conducted in the radio anechoic chamber of the Directorate General of Armaments (DGA) to investigate the RCS, which is the radar's reflection area, proved that the X-2 is smaller than a medium-sized bird and larger than an insect in terms of stealth performance. The development of the X-2 cost 39.4 billion yen and took seven years of prototyping from 2009 to 2014, with development completed in 2016. The cockpit has two displays and a heads-up display, while the seats and canopy are made of ITO, a material developed by Kawasaki Heavy Industries that prevents radio waves from reflecting off of it. The engine of the X-2 is an XF5 developed by the Ministry of Defense's Air Equipment Research Center in cooperation with Ishikawajima-harima Heavy Industries, and is a turbofan jet engine with an afterburner that burns by blowing fuel into the exhaust of the jet engine again. The engine was developed through research into high-motion flight control systems, and the engine's three thrust vectoring paddles allow the direction of engine thrust to be controlled at will, even in areas of stalling where normal fighter jets would be unable to do so. In the future, the X-2 is expected to be commercialized around 2030, and is envisioned as the next fighter aircraft of the F2, which belongs to the older generation of aircraft. The First Flight of the X-2 Japanese Stealth Aircraft Photo：American stealth aircraft・F35 As shown in the video, the X-2, a 100% Japanese-made stealth aircraft, made its first flight at Nagoya Airport in April 2016. It has a top speed of 1,200 km/h, or supersonic speed. You can also see the X-2 flying with other fighters, such as an F15, at 0:39 in the video. Japan is the fourth country to fly a manned stealth aircraft, following the United States, Russia and China. Since then, it underwent several test flights and was kept in storage, but it became a hot topic of conversation when it was shown to the public at an air festival at the Air Self Defense Force base in Gifu. Summary of the X-2 Japanese Stealth Aircraft Source :YouTube screenshot What did you think of Japan's latest stealth aircraft? At 1:28 in the video, you can see comments from people who saw the first flight of X-2. Be sure to check out the test flight of the X-2 and see how awesome the new stealth aircraft is!

The Delicious Irori Cuisine of Yanagiya This video, titled "Chef Masashi Yamada Serves Wild Game Hunted in the Mountains of Japan — Omakase Japan," was released by "Eater." It introduces the Japanese restaurant Yanagiya in Mizunami, hidden deep in the mountains of Gifu prefecture. Yanagiya is a famous Japanese restaurant and has been highly rated as the number one restaurant on Tabelog (a popular review sites for restaurants, hotels, etc. in Japan). It was ranked among the world's top 10 out of more than 16,000 restaurants in 2019 by La Liste, a French restaurant guide that showcases outstanding gastronomic establishments from around the world, and also received an award for outstanding regional cuisine. Many customers from all over the world come to Yanagiya to eat the local cuisine prepared by Chef Masashi. A Closer Look at Yanagiya, One of the Finest Restaurants in Japan Source :YouTube screenshot Yanagiya is a famous restaurant in Mizunami, Gifu, that serves exquisite regional cuisine using fresh, local ingredients. The restaurant is popular for its Japanese cuisine prepared on an irori. At 3:13 in the video, you can see the food being cooked on the restaurant's irori. An irori is a sunken hearth in the center of a room in older Japanese houses. The irori is blanketed with charcoal, and wood or charcoal is burned in it for heating or cooking purposes. The irori reflects the historical wisdom of Japan to create a space where people can gather in a circle to enjoy local cuisine in a heated room. Seasonal Japanese Food at Yanagiya – Taste the Four Seasons of Japan Source :YouTube screenshot A Variety of gourmet Japanese dishes, including popular game dishes, are prepared over Yanagiya's irori. The menu at Yanagiya features a variety of local ingredients, such as wild vegetables, river fish, (including sweetfish), eel, grilled duck skewers, and mushrooms, such as matsutake mushrooms, which give guests a taste of Japan's four seasons. Another popular dish on the menu is the delicious duck hot pot featured at 6:51 in the video. If you're not sure what kind of Japanese food to order, we recommend the Japanese course meal (和食コース料理) as it’s a great way to sample a variety of local cuisine. Summary of Yanagiya, a Restaurant Where You Can Enjoy Delicious Local Cuisine Over an Irori Source :YouTube screenshot As shown in the video, one of the unique characteristics about the way the chefs at Yanagiya prepare their dishes is the fluid handling of ingredients and instruments. The quick and experienced knife skills of the chefs will even provide entertainment for your meal. The cuisine cooked on the irori of Yanagiya is sure to create a lasting impression. Yanagiya is a famous restaurant, so be sure to make reservations in advance. ◆Yanagiya｜General Information◆ 【Address】573-27, Mashizume, Sue, Mizunami, Gifu Prefecture (〒509-6361 Gifu, Mizunami, 陶町猿爪573-27) 【Access】20 minutes by taxi from Mizunami Station on the Chuo Line 【Hours】[Mon. – Sat.] 12:00 - 15:00, 17:00 - 22:00, [Sun.] 12:00 - 15:00, 17:00 - 21:00 【Closures】Irregular holidays 【Telephone】0572-65-2102 【Remarks】Yanagiya uses a 100% reservation system. You will be unable to dine without one. 【Yelp】Yanagiya (柳家) https://www.yelp.com/biz/%E6%9F%B3%E5%AE%B6-%E7%91%9E%E6%B5%AA%E5%B8%82-2

Introducing Gujo Hachiman, the Town of Water (One Japan's 100 Remarkable Waters)! This video, titled "Gujo Hachiman - Beautiful Water, Beautiful Town" (郡上八幡〜美しい水と美しい街〜), was released by "COSTONA." This video starts from Gujo-Hachiman Station on the Nagaragawa Railway. Gujo Hachiman is a popular tourist destination in Gifu Prefecture in Japan's Tokai region. Enjoy the video with which you can see the charm of Gujo Hachiman, that was loved by the manga artist Momoko Sakura, the creator of the popular manga "Chibi Maruko-chan." Gujo Hachiman in Gujo, Gifu. Enjoy a Leisurely Walk Through the City of Water Source :YouTube screenshot Old cobblestone streets of the past can still be found in Gujo Hachiman even now. At Gujo-Hachiman Station, the center of the city, you'll find Gujo-Hachiman Station Cafe, where you can relax and grab a bite to eat or a coffee after a long train ride. As you can see from 0:35 in the video, there is also a GJ8Man face in the hole panel drawn by Momoko Sakura in front of Gujo Hachiman Station. The beautiful place introduced at 1:37 is Roadside Station Meiho. Here you can relax while admiring the flowers and also buy souvenirs. Gujo Hachiman's specialty gourmet is Meiho-ham, which is deep-fried Meiho-ham. We recommend walking around the city while munching on some deep-fried Meiho ham! If you get hungry, you can have fun and relax at the rice ball shop "Onisuke," shown at 2:25 in the video, or the Japanese cafe "Omatcha-dokoro Sogi-an," a famous sweets shop which can be seen from 4:41 in the video. The Charms of Gujo Hachiman - The City of Water in Gujo, Gifu Source :YouTube screenshot Gujo Hachiman in Gujo, Gifu is famous as a town of water. There's rich spring water at Sogi Spring, which has been certified as the first of Japan's 100 Remarkable Waters, as well as in the Kodara River which can be seen from 7:34. Sogi Spring, also known as Haku-unsui, has long been indispensable to the lives of the people in the city. Koi also swim in the waterways and upon seeing this you'll begin to understand the beauty of the water flowing through the city. The History of Gujo Hachiman, the City of Water in Gujo, Gifu Photo：Gujo Hachiman Castle, Gifu Prefecture Let's touch upon the history of Gujo Hachiman. Gujo Hachiman has been a popular castle town since the Edo period (1603-1868). Later, in the Meiji period (1868-1912), the town of Hachiman was born, and in 2004, with the merger of seven towns and villages in Gujo County, it became the city of Gujo. There are statues of Kazutoyo Yamauchi and his wife, Chiyo in Gujo Hachiman Castle, and you can see what they might've looked like when they were alive. In addition to the castle, you can also learn about the history of the area at Gujo Hachiman Hakurankan Museum and the Gujo Hachiman Former Government Building Memorial Hall. Gujo Odori - Local Specialties in Gujo Hachiman Photo：Mizu manju, a summer tradition Gujo Odori is a must-have when visiting Gujo Hachiman. Gujo Odori, which has been around since the Edo period, is a festival that represents the city of water. The festival that lasts for more than 30 nights from mid-July to early September and it is the longest Bon dance festival in Japan. During this period, many people gather for the all-night dance, which, as the name implies, involves dancing all night from 8pm to 4 in the morning for four days from August 13th to 16th. In addition, Gifu Prefecture is famous for its sweetfish dishes, and the local cuisine representing the Oku-Mino region, such as Kei-chan (chicken) and Mizu manju, a summer delicacy, are must-try foods. Gujo-Hachiman in Gujo, Gifu, has accommodation facilities, such as hotels, inns, and hot springs, so we recommend enjoying the town at a leisurely pace with an overnight stay. Summary Gujo Hachiman - The City of Water in Gujo, Gifu Photo：Gujo Hachiman, Gifu Prefecture After watching the video it'll be hard to resist packing your bags for Gujo Hachiman. Many tourists visit on weekends in search of the city of water and the old townscapes of Japan. There are places to view the autumn leaves and ski resorts in the surrounding area, and Gujo Hachiman is also great for taking Instagram photos. Be sure to check out the video before strolling around the city and check out some of Gujo Hachiman's popular tourist spots. 【Tripadvisor】Gujo Hachiman https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g1019682-d8565136-Reviews-Gujo_Hachiman_Castle_Town-Gujo_Gifu_Prefecture_Tokai_Chubu.html

千葉由美さんは全国でも珍しい女性の寿司職人 この動画は「Eater」が公開した静岡県清水区で寿司職人として活躍する千葉由美（Yumi Chiba）さんにインタビューを行った「How Master Sushi Chef Yumi Chiba Perfected Tamago — Omakase Japan」です。 寿司は日本のグルメの歴史の中で日本食・和食を代表するほどの食べ物になった。 現在では世界中に寿司職人が存在しており、日本人のみならず、世界中の日本食・和食好きに愛されている。 しかし寿司職人の多くは男性であり、女性の寿司職人を見ることは殆どない。 静岡県清水区で江戸前寿司をもてなしているグルメ店「魚竹寿し」の女性の寿司職人・千葉由美さん。 日本食屋・和食屋では非常に珍しい女性の板前である千葉由美さんだが、その職人技は男性顔負けであり、魚を捌く様子は真剣なそのものだ。 女性の寿司職人が少ない理由とは？ 寿司職人のグルメの歴史において「寿司は男性が握るもの」という考え方は古くより存在している。 これは「女性の高い体温では握りを作る際にネタが傷んでしまう」と言われていたためである。 もちろんこの考えは根拠が殆んどなく、女性より体温の高い男性はいくらでもいる。 しかしながら、日本のグルメで古くから信じられてきたこの考えは寿司職人業界で「女人禁制」という文化を定着させているのも事実だ。 現在、寿司を提供している日本食屋・和食屋において、世界的なグルメ本『ミシュランガイド』に掲載されている店は400店以上もある。 しかし、それらのお店で女性の寿司職人はたった1人しかいないほどだ。 千葉由美さんの作る寿司へのこだわり 千葉さんが代表取締役を務める「魚竹寿し」では、伝統的な江戸前寿司を提供している。 寿司はもちろんのこと、旬のネタや新鮮な魚介類・海鮮を使った「お造り」も人気のグルメだ。 なかでも寿司を中心に日本食・和食に欠かせない厚焼き玉子（玉子焼き）は、千葉さんが最も時間をかけるグルメだ。 その製法は消えるような弱火でじっくりと玉子を焼いていく、昔ながらの作り方である。玉子を焼き終わるのに1時間以上もかかるという。 海外でも愛される日本食・和食の文化の紹介まとめ 日本食・和食は世界中のグルメで愛されている料理だ。 特に生魚を食べる文化のない海外においては、魚の刺身や寿司は口にする機会がなく、本場の寿司を食べるために日本に旅行に来る方も少なくはない。 寿司は日本が世界に誇るグルメであることは間違いないが、「女人禁制」という閉鎖的な考え方も並列して存在している。 最近では女性が日本食・和食の板前になることも増えつつあるが、まだまだ数は少ない。 女性の板前だからといって味が落ちることはない。女性の板前を見かけても否定的にならず、好意的に捉えることが、これからの日本食・和食のグルメの促進につながるだろう。