Iga Ueno Castle” in Iga City, Mie Prefecture, Japan Video Introduction This is a video introducing Iga Ueno castle in Mie, which was selected as one of Japan’s Top 100 Castles. The title of the video is "Japan’s Top 100 Castles, Iga Ueno Castle, Mie Prefecture" (日本100名城　伊賀上野城　三重県　Iga Ueno Castle), published by “castle shrine.” Iga, Mie prefecture is known as the origin of Ninjas. As shown at the beginning of the video, the nearest station to the castle, Ueno-shi station, is also called Ninja-shi station ("shi" means city in Japanese). Iga Ueno castle is famous for its massive stone walls. In the video at 3:32, you can see the majestic castle as it sits atop the towering stone walls. These tall stone walls are the second largest stone walls in Japan after Osaka castle. Many tourists gather here for cherry blossom viewing and to see the autumn leaves at this scenic castle. We hope you'll enjoy the video showing the castle in all its grandeur. A Look at Iga Ueno Castle Photo：Iga Ueno Castle in spring Iga Ueno castle was built on Ueno Plateau in the Iga area. The castle was classified as a hirayama style castle (built on a hill in a plain) and also called Hakuho castle. It was known as a defensive castle as there are two rivers near it. These rivers were a great advantage in protecting the castle when attacked. Before Iga Ueno castle was built, there were different buildings, such as a temple and a small castle, at the site of Iga Ueno castle. In the Warring States period (1467-1615), construction of Iga Ueno castle began under the authority of military commander, Katsutoshi Takigawa. After that, Tsutsui Sadatsugu reconstructed the castle by referring to the manuscript "Isui Unko," written by Nyogen Kikuoka. Finally, the castle was expanded by Takatora Toda who received it from Hideyoshi Toyotomi. Shortly thereafter, Takatora became the lord of the castle. The current Iga Ueno castle is a castle keep, also called "Iga Cultural Property." Different calligraphic works are embedded in the coffers of the top floor as well. These calligraphic works are outstanding and the castle is now designated as a cultural property of Iga. When is the best time to see cherry blossoms in Iga Ueno Castle?What's the highlight? About 600 cherry trees are planted around the castle tower of Iga Ueno Castle.In spring, you can enjoy the collaboration between Tenshukaku and cherry blossoms reflected in the blue sky, making it a great shooting spot.When the cherry blossoms are in full bloom, the Tenshu-kaku lights up, and the gentle light of the lanterns shines on them. Usually, cherry blossoms in Tsu, Mie Prefecture, are at their best from late March to early April.It seems that the cherry blossom forecast date for 2024 will be in full bloom around March 31st and April 7th. Sightseeing at Iga Ueno Castle and the Castle Town Photo：Iga Ueno castle, Scenery from the castle tower Ueno park is located around Iga Ueno Castle. This park is popular for literary fans as there are different historical buildings related to Matsuo Basho, a famous poet who was from Ueno. There are also Ninja museums and different Ninja attractions, so it is a perfect place to have fun and learn about Ninja culture. Stop by restaurants and gift stores in the castle town to enjoy the local specialties. Summary of Iga Ueno Castle Photo：Iga Ueno Castle , castle tower Iga Ueno castle is a great place to visit and see the castle tower, Hakuho gate, and cultural properties on display inside the castle. You can also collect a seal of the castle if you have a castle stamp book. Check out the video and see the wonderful view from the top of the castle tower. Matsuzaka castle is also located in Mie, so if you can, we recommend visiting both. ◆Information of Iga Ueno Castle◆ 【Address】106 Ueno-marunouchi, Iga, Mie 【Access】An 8 minute walk from Iga railway Ueno-shi station 【Admission fee】600 yen for an adult, 300 yen for a child 【Hours】9:00 - 17:00 【Parking】Paid Parking Available 【Telephone No】0595-21-3148 【Official Website】Iga Ueno Castle http://igaueno-castle.jp/?page_id=196 【Tripadvisor】Iga Ueno Castle https://www.tripadvisor.com/ShowUserReviews-g1015945-d1810041-r645274595-Iga_Ueno_Castle-Iga_Mie_Prefecture_Tokai_Chubu.html

Ghibli Park "Mononoke no Sato" and "Witches' Valley" in Nagakute City, Aichi Prefecture Video Introduction 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

Video introduction of “Mikagura” prayer at “Ise Jingu” in Ise City, 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

A Look at Tajimi City, Gifu The video "【Tajimi City PR video】 I love Tajimi City!" (【多治見市PR動画】たじみしがすき。), made by Ponycanyon, introduces many attractive places to visit in Tajimi city. Not only is it packed with traditional Japanese culture and food, but it's also a great place to live and raise a family. Check out the video and see the beauty of Tajimi! In this article, a child shows us around the attractions of Tajimi city in Gifu. Let’s see what Tajimi city is like for kids. About Tajimi city in Gifu Photo：Tajimi city Tajimi city in Gifu prefecture is well known for having the hottest weather in Japan. There are a lot of places to go sightseeing where you can absorb historic backgrounds and enjoy the outdoors. As such, there are many photogenic sites for Instagram as well. As you can see in the video, Tajimi city is a nice place to live. You can get to JR Tajimi station by express train from Nagoya. It takes only about 20 minutes, so it's great if you want to go shopping too! See more about transportation at 0:36 in the video. Raising children is easy thanks to the support from city hall and the large municipal hospital. At 2:00 the video mentions the average ambulance arrival time is about 7.3 minutes (compared to the average 8.5 minutes of Japan). You can bring your kids to Pokapoka Plaza which has a playground inside, and eat delicious eel and make pottery. You can see in the video at 0:49. Look how excited her is to meet “Unagappa,” the cute mascot of Tajimi. In this video, there's tons of things to see in Tajimi city! Take a look at 1:36 in the video. Here you can see the average prices of residential land. It mentions that the city costs a fifth of what land in Nagoya costs, and it's so close to Nagoya as well. There are some nice places such as the Valor Cultural Hall (Tajimi city cultural hall), the Cultural Properties Protection Center and the Cafe Gallery Momogusa. Experience Japanese Culture in Tajimi City, Gifu! Source :YouTube screenshot Tajimi city is famous for Japanese handicrafts such as Mino Pottery( 美濃焼, Minoyaki). Mino yaki, introduced in the video at 2:04, is pottery made in the Tono area of Gifu. This beautiful and easy to use pottery attracts attention around the world. You can see it at the Mino Pottery Museum and you can also experience making it at the Voice Workshop at Azuchi Momoyama Pottery Park. Also mentioned in the video at 1:24 is Tajimi Honmachi Oribe Street. This 400 meters long street has many pottery shops and galleries. Here you can see the Minoyaki Archive Library and the History Museum. There is also Ichinokura Oribe Street where you can enjoy locally made Japanese sake. Sightseeing Information for Tajimi City, Gifu Photo：Eiho-ji Temple on Mt.Kokei There are a lot of attractions to see in Tajimi city, Gifu. If you want to enjoy beautiful works of art, we recommend the Mosaic Tile Museum, the Ceramic Park MINO, the Ikeda Cho Folk Museum, the Museum of Modern Ceramic Art and the Ichinokura Sakazuki Museum. If you like historic places, how about Eiho-ji Temple (永保寺, Eihoji) on Mt.Kokei (虎渓山, Kokeizan), the Society of the Divine Word, the Tajimi Monastery, the Nishiura Archive (Sekishin Sanzenkura) or the Oribe Pottery House? If you want to enjoy some natural scenery, you can go to the Nishiura Garden, the Path of Tosai or the Kasahara Shiomi Forest Park. There are many kinds of festivals and events in Tajimi city such as the Tajimi Festival, the Shuudoin (monastery) Wine Festival, the Michisakari Thanksgiving, the Tajimirukomichi, the Nigiwaiichi [Station Mall], Ogibou No Te (a historical reenactment), the Kasahara Shinmeigu (Kasahara shrine) Autumn Festival, the Akibasama (Akiba shrine), the Tajimi City Fireworks Festival, the Tajimi Pottery Festival, the Ichinokura Touso Festival (Pottery festival), the Tajimi Pottery Festival at Nishi Dori, the Gion Festival, the Oribe Kichakai, the Mino Folk Art Pottery Festival, the Tajimi Chawan (Ricebowl) Festival, the Ichinokura Tou no Sato Festival (Pottery), the Zohogama Tsubaki Exibition, the Honmachi Oribe Street Hina Festival, the International Pottery Festival, the Tajimi Station Kita Beer Garden, the Natsu No Yo Festival (Summer night festival), the Deai Matsuri (Festival of Encounters) and the Minoyaki Festival. Summary of Tajimi City, Gifu Tajimi city has a lot of attractive things to do with its delicious food, traditional culture, and beautiful nature. As shown in the video, not only is it a good place to live, it’s also great for sightseeing as well. Be sure to check out the video and see the wonders of Tajimi city. If you like what you see, consider giving it a visit yourself! 【Official Website】Tajimi City Hall https://www.city.tajimi.lg.jp/ 【Tripadvisor】Tajimi City https://www.tripadvisor.com/Tourism-g1019694-Tajimi_Gifu_Prefecture_Tokai_Chubu-Vacations.html

Ise Ninja Kingdom, Tomoiki no Kuni Ise Ninja Kingdom, Ise City, Mie Prefecture, video introduction 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 of Iga Kumihimo, a Traditional Craft of Iga City, Mie Prefecture 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/

Gujo Hachiman" Video Introduction in Gujo City, Gifu Prefecture 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

Mt. Fuji – Hatsuhinode: Video Introduction This video, titled "An Aerial View of Mt. Fuji | The First Sunrise of 2022【Shizuoka Shimbun / Your Shizuoka Newspaper】" (富士山上空　２０２２年初日の出【静岡新聞／あなたの静岡新聞】) was uploaded by "Shizuoka Shimbun【TEAM NEXT】." Jelico No.1, a helicopter owned by Shizuoka Newspaper Inc., filmed Mt. Fuji and the first sunrise of 2022 at approximately 4,000 meters above Fujinomiya, Shizuoka, in Japan's Tokai region. Hatsuhinode is the Japanese tradition of viewing the first sunrise of the New Year. Enjoy the breathtaking sunrise over Mt. Fuji! A Divine View of Mt. Fuji and a Sunrise That Will Take Your Breath Away! Photo：The first sunrise of the year, Mt. Fuji If you're superstitious, then there's nothing more auspicious than Mt. Fuji and hatsuhinode to greet the new year. Moreover, this combination is filmed at the height of 4,000 meters. It's going to take your breath away. [Video] 0:18 - Snow Whirling in the Wind on Mt. Fuji as the Sun Rises In this video, you can also see the rare Kage-Fuji, a phenomenon which can only be seen for a few hours before sunrise and sunset, when only oblique light shines on Mt. Fuji. The shadow of Mt. Fuji can be seen on the surface of the earth or on a sea of clouds. The first sunrise of the year coupled with the Kage-Fuji phenomenon makes for an incredible experience. [Video] 0:30 - The Magnificent Scale of Kage-Fuji Seen From the Sky The photogenic Kage-Fuji in the crisp air is a different experience from what climbers can see, creating a fantastic sight that can only be captured from 4,000 meters in the air. Recommended Spots for Viewing Mt. Fuji and the First Sunrise of the Year Photo：Sunrise and Mt. Fuji from Lake Motosu Mt. Fuji is also called "Reiho" (霊峰), or "sacred mountain" in Japanese, and is loved by the people of Japan. No matter the season, this place is always a popular attraction. Now you're probably thinking "It must be crowded during Hatsuhinode then." Crowding conditions vary from year to year, but here we'll introduce some popular spots and hidden gems where you can view Mt. Fuji. Be sure to take a camera for some awesome photos as well! ●Lake Kawaguchi (河口湖, Kawaguchiko) (Popular) On the side of the lake, there are so many places where you can enjoy views of Mt. Fuji, like Oishi Park (大石公園, Oishi Koen) or Ubuyagasaki (産屋ヶ崎, Ubuyagasaki). The first sunrise of the year rising over the majestic Mt. Fuji illuminates the surface of the lake with a beautiful light. Fuji Sengen Shrine (about 20 minutes away by car) is located nearby and is recommended for hatsumode (the first shrine visit of the New Year). Sunrise: 6:54 a.m., January 1, 2022 ●Lake Motosu (本栖湖, Motosuko) (Popular) The famous Sakasa-Fuji (the upside-down reflection of Mt. Fuji on the surface of a lake) printed on 1,000-yen notes came from the view from this lake. This spot is popular as a top photo spot to witness Diamond Fuji, a beautiful phenomenon where the sunrise hits the peak of Mt. Fuji and shines like a diamond. Unfortunately, whether or not you can see this will depends on the day's weather, so there's no guarantee you'll be able to see it. Sunrise: 6:49 a.m., January 1st, 2022 ●Roadside Station Asagirikogen (道の駅　朝霧高原, Michinoeki Asagirikogen) (Popular) Here, visitors can enjoy restaurants and a variety of local products. Only on January 1st, this area opens at 7:00 AM to warmly welcome people who come there to take photos or enjoy the first sunrise of the year. It's located along Shio no Michi (Salt Road), Route 139, which links Shizuoka with Yamanashi. Sunrise: 6:55 a.m., January 1st, 2022 ●Jukkoku Toge Summit (十国峠山頂, Jukkoku Toge Sancho) (Hidden Gem) The Hakone Jukkoku Toge Cable Car starts running from 5:00 a.m. as a "Hatsuhinode Special Service." On a bright and clear New Year's Day, you can catch Mt. Fuji colored red by the sunrise. Sunrise: 6:52 a.m., January 1st, 2022 ●Senbonhama Beach (千本浜海岸, Senbonhama Kaigan) (Hidden Gem) This beach is approximately 10 km long and is full of pine trees. It's a nice spot where you can avoid the crowds in the area surrounding Mt. Fuji and enjoy the beautiful pine trees with a distant view of Mt. Fuji. Sunrise: 6:52 a.m., January 1st, 2022 Each spot has special New Year's tours. If you're in Japan for the new year, consider staying at a hotel or ryokan and watching the beautiful sunrise over Mt. Fuji. Climbing Mt. Fuji to See the First Sunrise of the Year? Photo：Sunrise, Mt. Fuji There are many people that want to witness the sunrise from the peak of Mt. Fuji. However, the climbing season on Mt. Fuji doesn't start until early July and ends in late September. In general, the climbing season is during the period when the trails are open to the public. Since the opening period differs by trail, please refer to the Official Website for Climbing Mt. Fuji. New Year's means winter on Mt. Fuji, and weather conditions can be harsh, leading to an increased risk of accidents. Therefore, if you're planning on climbing Mt. Fuji, be sure to keep this in mind and be extra careful. Summary of the First Sunrise of the Year at Mt. Fuji This article introduced information about the first sunrise of the year at Mt. Fuji, a sight that many people wish to see. There are tons of good places to watch the sunrise, including popular spots and hidden gems. There are also risks to be aware of if you're planning on climbing Mt. Fuji to watch the first sunrise of the year. Having a good New Year's Day is the key to having a good year. Watching the sunrise at Mt. Fuji is one of the best ways to start your year off right. Be sure to dress warm and enjoy the amazing view! 【TripAdvisor】Mt. Fuji

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 showcases the charms of Japan to people around the world who are interested in Japan. Click here for more information about COOLJAPANVIDEOS Anyone can enter COOL JAPAN VIDEOS' photo contests! Below are some of the features of our contests. ・On top of single-lens reflex cameras and digital cameras, photos taken with smartphones and other devices can also be submitted. ・Each person can submit as many photos as they like during the contest period. ・Editing of images, 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 November 2023] The 20th COOL JAPAN VIDEOS Photo Contest Theme: The Beauty of Japan Submission period: November 1, 2023 0:00 AM – December 31 2023 11:59 PM(JST) Prizes: ■Grand Prize: 30,000 yen Amazon gift card (1 Winner) ■Honorable Mentions: 10,000 yen Amazon gift card (5 Winners) The Beauty of Japan Photo Contest Landscape Photography Summary Did you enjoy these landscape photos from past photo contest entries? Some of these landscapes can only be seen in specific conditions. Japan is full of rich nature, historical locations, and seasonal events! Share your photos with the world and help showcase the beauty of Japan through COOL JAPAN VIDEOS! Related Articles Text only Children of COOL JAPAN VIDEOS Photo Contests: 10 Heartwarming Photos That Will Put a Smile on Your Face! Text only Autumn in COOL JAPAN VIDEOS Photo Contests: 10 Beautiful Photos of Autumn in Japan Text only Mt. Fuji in COOL JAPAN VIDEOS Photo Contests: 10 Photos Showcasing the Different Views of Mt. 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Video Introduction to "Sunmatakyo," a Dream Suspension Bridge in Haibara-gun, Shizuoka Prefecture 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

Video introduction of the rakugan (wild geese) offered at the puja at Senshuji Temple in Tsu City, Mie Prefecture, Japan. This video, titled "[4K Video] Rakugan – A Japanese Sweet Offered at Senjuji Temple: Tsu, Mie｜nippon.com" (【4K動画】専修寺（せんじゅじ）の法会に供される落雁:三重県津市一身田町| nippon.com), was uploaded by "nippon.com." In this 4K video, you can see the traditional Japanese sweet rakugan, made by Okadaya and offered at Senjuji Temple, as if you were actually seeing it with your own eyes. 　　[Video] 0:28 - Rakugan 　　[Video] 1:50 - A Buddhist Service at Senjuji Temple Senjuji Temple is the head temple of the Takata sect of Shinshu Buddhism, which has more than 600 temples throughout Japan. Located in Tsu, Mie, in Japan's Tokai region, the temple houses Nyoraido and Mieido, the first buildings in Mie Prefecture to be designated as national treasures, as well as many other national treasures related Buddhism and Important Cultural Properties designated by the government of Japan. Every year from January 9 to 16, Shinshu's largest Buddhist memorial service, Hoonko, is held here. The signature traditional Japanese sweet offered at the altar of such an important Buddhist service at Senshuji Temple is rakugan. Okadaya is the sweets shop that supplies these rakugan to Senjuji Temple. Okadaya was founded in 1868 and is a long-established confectionary in Tsu, Mie, the same city as Senjuji Temple. Currently, in addition to Japanese sweets such as rakugan, sakura okoshi, and otafuku manju, Okadaya also sells fresh and colorful birthday cakes, wedding cakes, and cakes with illustrations, made with seasonal ingredients. What Is Rakugan? Origin, Characteristics, and How It's Made Photo：Rakugan Rakugan is a traditional Japanese sweet commonly used in tea ceremony or as an offering. It's made by kneading grain-derived flour with sugar or syrup, pressing it into a mold, forming it, and drying it. Rakugan is also a type of higashi. Higashi refers to dried wagashi with less than 20% water content. Major types of higashi include rakugan, konpeito, senbei, and yatsuhashi. Wagashi can be classified into three categories: fresh confectioneries, semi-perishable confectioneries, and dried confectioneries. Rakugan, wasanbon, and yatsuhashi belong to the dried confectionery category. Rakugan, which are very hard, are mostly made of sugar, meaning that the flavor of the ingredients can be enjoyed as is, and because they contain little water, they are resistant to mold and last a long time. Because of its unique hardness, it's easy to form patterns on the surface, and it's possible to make patterns in the shape of flowers, family crests, cranes and turtles, and other auspicious symbols, and it can also be colored in various colors with food coloring. These characteristics are what make rakugan suitable as an offering, and thus they are frequently used as such. There are two popular theories about the origin of the name rakugan (落雁): the first is that the name comes from the Chinese sweet nanrakukan (軟落甘) and that the name changed over time, and the second is that it was named after Katata no Rakugan (堅田落雁, Wild Geese Returning Home at Katata) one of the Eight Views of Omi. Rakugan are said to have originated when a disciple of the Buddha served rakugan to monks during the Bon Festival. The word "rakugan" (落雁) means "geese flying down from the sky," and is a well-known seasonal word used in Japanese poetry to represent autumn. Rakugan, Wasanbon, and Hakusetsuko – Three Types of Japanese Sweets Photo：Wasanbon Hakusetsuko and wasanbon are two other types of higashi and are difficult to distinguish from rakugan. Here, we'll explain the differences and uses of rakugan, hakusetsuko and wasanbon. Both rakugan and hakusetsuko can be colored red and white and decorated with patterns, and are typical traditional Japanese sweets used as offerings for the Bon Festival. Rakugan are made from steamed and dried rice powder, while hakusetsuko are made from raw rice powder. Wasanbon is made by molding only wasanbon, a type of sugar, and therefore differs from rakugan and hakusetsu-kan in both ingredients and how it's made. Wasanbon is a specialty of Kagawa and Tokushima prefectures, and is made by refining sugarcane juice. Today, it's considered a high-end sugar due to its scarcity and the decrease in the number of producers. It's mainly used as sugar for Japanese sweets, and is especially famous for its use in higashi sweets. How to Store Rakugan and How Long It Can Be Kept Photo：Bon Festival offerings The reason why rakugan is used as an offering is because its ability to last for a long time. So, by when should rakugan be eaten? If stored properly, rakugan can be kept for more than a month and eaten without any problems. On the other hand, if they are not stored properly, their quality may deteriorate quickly. The key to preserving the quality of rakugan is to avoid humidity and sunlight. Because of its high sugar content, rakugan easily absorbs moisture, especially during Japan's rainy season, and when it absorbs moisture, it spoils much quicker. In addition, colored rakugan will lose their color when exposed to sunlight. If they are to be served after being dedicated as an offering, it's important to pay attention to humidity, sunlight, and the time of year they are offered. To prevent spoiling from humidity, we recommend wrapping the rakugan in film. As tea sweets, rakugan can be stored in an airtight container without losing quality if kept out of direct sunlight. How to Enjoy Rakugan and Recipes They Can Be Used In Photo：Rakugan sugar The following is a list of delicious ways to eat rakugan as well as recipes they can be used in. Since the main ingredient of rakugan is sugar, it can be processed into a powder using a grater, food processor, or mill, and used as a substitute for sugar in a wide variety of applications. For example, we recommend using it in coffee, tea, or other beverages, or in yogurt or pancakes, as it's particularly easy to utilize. By using it in these ways, you can enjoy the taste of rakugan that have hardened over time, as opposed to eating them as they are. Summary of Rakugan, a Traditional Japanese Sweet In this article, we introduced rakugan, a higashi (dried confectionery) that's also offered at the Buddhist memorial service at Senjuji Temple. With a long history, rakugan has been loved throughout Japan to the extent that it has been selected as one of the three most famous confectioneries in the country. If you have the chance to try this traditional Japanese sweet, definitely give it a go!

What is “Kizuro” in Kumano City, Mie Prefecture, an unexplored region of Japan? Aerial Video Introduction 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.

Fuji, Fuji City, Shizuoka Prefecture, Japan: Tea Fields at the Foot of Mount Fuji, "Obuchi Sasaba" Video Introduction This video, titled “Drone Shot Tea Plantation and Mt. Fuji Obuchi Sasaba（空撮 茶畑と富士山 静岡 大淵笹場 | Tea Plantation and Mt. Fuji）,” is a video using drone footage of a tea plantation around Mt. Fuji in Shizuoka in the Tokai region of Japan. It was produced by "crescendo L DESIGN." The Mt.Fuji area in Shizuoka has two famous tea growing locations called Obuchi Sasaba and Imamiya. Early summer, when the lush tea plantation spreads across the slope on the outskirts of Mt. Fuji and shows natural scenic beauty unique to the famous tea growing locations, is the best time to visit. You can watch drone footage of the tea plantation at Obuchi Sasaba in the video. With Mt. Fuji faintly covered in snow in the background, the vast, solid green tea plantation creates a beautiful landscape unique to Japan. Please watch the video and enjoy the scenic beauty that can only be seen in Japan. How Japanese Tea Is Grown Photo：A Tea Plantation Tea plants grow well in warm weather. In Japan, the largest producers of tea are the Mt. Fuji area in Shizuoka, Uji in Kyoto, and Sayama in Saitama, and teas from these area are called the "Three Famous Teas of Japan." An evergreen tree called camellia sinensis is grown in tea farms nationwide and tea picking is held during May when fresh tea leaves are harvested. The tea is harvested and sold as new tea, so be sure to taste the freshly harvested, elegant flavors. In Shizuoka tea plantations, windmill-like structures are installed to protect the new tea from frost damage in the early spring. Obuchi Sasaba in this video is in Shizuoka Prefecture, which boasts the largest tea cultivation and production area in Japan. Experience Tea Picking on the Outskirts of Mt. Fuji! Photo：Tea picking A popular attraction in tea producing areas, including Obuchi Sasaba in the Shizuoka area, is tea picking. There are also spots where you can borrow a tea-girl costume to pick tea and enjoy a memorable experience. Picking tea in the sprawling tea fields of Obuchi Sasaba, is a great way to remember your trip. We recommend that you buy some delicious tea as a souvenir after a leisurely tour of the tea plantations around Mt. Fuji. When is the best time to visit "Oobuchi Sasaba", a tea plantation and Mt. Don't miss the Oobuchi Tea Festival! Photo：The tea plantation of Obuchi Sasaba Shizuoka Prefecture is known as one of Japan's leading tea-producing regions and there are many tea plantations in the prefecture. In spring, you can see the verdant landscape of tea fields at the foot of Mt. Fuji. The scenery has become so popular among foreign tourists in recent years that you can take a tour of the tea plantations by minibus. The best time to photograph the lush tea fields and Mt. Fuji at Oobuchi Sasaba is from late April to May. We recommend the "Oobuchi Tea Festival," which is held during the best time to view the tea fields. The festival is usually held on May 3, and visitors can enjoy a variety of gourmet foods and events, including a photo session where they can take pictures of tea girls picking tea along with Mt. You're sure to get some great Instagram pics! Summary of Obuchi Sasaba In this video, you can see a spectacular view of the greenery of young tea leaves against the backdrop of Mt. Fuji. After viewing the scenic beauty of Obuchi Sasaba, your everyday tea may be more flavorful. We hope you enjoy your early summer sightseeing trip in the scenic beauty of Shizuoka, where you can experience tea picking, buy delicious tea, and enjoy Japanese tea culture! ◆Obuchi Sasaba◆ 【Address】Near 1516, Obuchi, Fuji City, Shizuoka 【Access】About 35 minutes from JR Fuji Station by bus or about 20 minutes from Tomei Fuji IC/New Tomei New Fuji IC by car 【Parking】Toll parking is available near the tea plantation 【Tripadvisor】Obuchi Sasaba https://www.tripadvisor.en/ShowUserReviews-g303147-d10282623-r377490474-Obuchi_Sasaba-Fuji_Shizuoka_Prefecture_Tokai_Chubu.html

Video introduction of "Osu Shopping Street" in Nagoya City, Aichi Prefecture, where 1,200 stores are gathered. This video, titled "Osu Shopping District - Nagoya - Aichi - 4K Ultra HD" (Osu Shopping district - Nagoya - Aichi - 大須商店 - 4K Ultra HD), was uploaded by "TokyoStreetView-Japan The Beautiful." Located in the center of Nagoya, Aichi, in Japan's Tokai region, the Osu Shopping District flourished roughly 400 years ago during Japan's Edo Period (1603-1868 A.D.) as the gateway to Osu Kannon, a Buddhist temple in in Nagoya belonging to the Shingon Sect of Buddhism. Today, the Osu Shopping District is home to stores selling anime/manga, maid cafes, and stores selling computers and other electronics, and it has even come to be called the sacred ground of Nagoya's otaku culture and subcultures. Be sure to watch the video as you read along to experience the atmosphere of the Osu Shopping District! The video is about 8 minutes long, and you can see the cameraman walking around the Osu Shopping District. It'll make you feel like you're actually strolling the streets of Osu! Highlights of the Osu Shopping District! Photo：Niomon Street, Osu Shopping District, Nagoya The Osu Shopping District is a shopping center with a number of streets intersecting in an area of about 700 meters east to west and 500 meters north to south. There are many shopping streets in the Osu Shopping District, each with its own unique characteristics. Niomon Street (仁王門通り, Niomon Dori) and Higashi Niomon Street (東仁王門通り, Higashi Niomon Dori), located on the southernmost side of the Osu Shopping District, are lined with a variety of restaurants. You can see the Higashi Niomon Street shopping district from 1:45 in the video. There are also many restaurants that serve exotic cuisines, such as Brazilian and Taiwanese, giving the street a unique "hodgepodge" feel. Osu Kannon Street (大須観音通り, Osu Kannon Dori) and Banshoji Street (万松寺通り, Banshoji Dori), which run through the center of the shopping district, are the main streets of the Osu Shopping District. There are many restaurants as well as the Osu Engeijo (大須演芸場, a performing arts theater), live music venues, and second-hand clothing stores, and the area is crowded with many shoppers. Akamon Street (赤門通り, Akamon Dori), located on the north side of the Osu Shopping District, is densely packed with computer stores and electronics stores, giving it an atmosphere similar to Akihabara. The charm of the Osu Shopping District is the "hodgepodge" atmosphere that visitors feel when shopping there. While there are restaurants and eateries where you can eat and drink, there are also pachinko parlors and small game centers, making it a place loved by tourists and locals alike. The Osu Shopping District Has Tons of Events! Photo：A lively festival on Higashi Niomon Street, Nagoya The Osu Shopping District is a great place to enjoy unique stores, but it also hosts a variety of events. In particular, the World Cosplay Summit, which has been held since 2003, is an internationally popular event. Cosplayers from all over the world compete in qualifying rounds representing their respective countries, all heading to the Osu Shopping District for this global event. In addition, various events are held on each street of the Osu Shopping District. On the 18th and 28th of every month, the "Osu Kannon Antique Market" is held. Similarly, on the 28th of every month, "Akamon 28 Festival" is held on Akamon Street, and "Daikoin Myoo-san Ennichi Fair" is held at Daikoin Temple (大光院). Also, in winter, the "Fureai Plaza" in the Osu shopping district and Shintenchi Street (新天地通り, Shintenchi Dori) are decorated with illuminations to welcome shoppers. Summary of the Osu Shopping District The Osu Shopping District, loved not only by tourists but also by locals, is now also a venue for world-famous events. The Osu Shopping District is lined with stores of various types, where you can enjoy gourmet lunches and strolls, entertainment, such as street performances, and anime and manga stores that promote otaku culture. It's truly an amazing shopping area worth a visit. There are also stores selling Korean goods and vintage clothes, shops selling hitsumabushi (a local specialty of Nagoya), shaved ice, Mont Blanc and other sweets, and old stores with a long history, souvenir shops, and shrines and temples, such as Banshoji Temple, making it a place where everyone from children to adults can have fun. The Osu Shopping District is also accessible by car, but there is no parking available, so you'll have to use the payed parking lots around the area if coming via car. Make some unforgettable memories at Osu Shopping District, a shopping center located in the center of Nagoya! 【Official Website】Osu Shopping District Official English Website http://inbound.nagoya-osu.com/en/ 【TripAdvisor】Osu Shopping District https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g14134979-d2007506-Reviews-Osu_Shopping_Street-Osu_Naka_Nagoya_Aichi_Prefecture_Tokai_Chubu.html

Video introduction of a stroll through the Atami Nakamise Shopping Street in Atami City, Shizuoka Prefecture This video is titled “Introduction to Atami Nakamise Shopping Street（熱海 仲見世商店街 紹介動画）” and it was created by “Atami Nakamise Shopping Street.” Atami is a popular resort since it is easy to get to from Japan's Kanto region. There are many retro and nostalgic views in Atami, as you can see in the video. In front of the station, is Heiwa Street, the Hellos Atami Building, and ATAMIX. You can go shopping, eat the local food and look for souvenirs. There's also a foot bath in front of the station, so you can feel like you've stepped into a hot spring resort as soon as you come out of the station. Let’s explore the attractions of Nakamise Street in Tawarahoncho, Atami, Shizuoka. Recommended Spots and Popular Food! Source : YouTube screenshot Nakamise Street starts from “Lusca” which is built within the station grounds. The video shows shops, hotels and a view of Nakamise Street. The shops sell "kamaboko" (dried fish), seen at 1:29 in the video, as well as "satsuma-age" (fried fishcakes) and "iso-age" another type of seafood. Some of them have been in business for 70 years and you can buy local food such as rice crackers and hot spring manju which is shown at 0:54 in the video. Hyakunen Youkan is a popular sweet sold by “Honke Tokiwagi”; a long-established Japanese sweets shop. Atami pudding is also popular among instagrammers, due to its photogenic nature. There are also restaurants and cafes for sushi and other types of seafood. Sightseeing in Atami! Photo：Kinomiya Shrine We highly recommend going sightseeing around Atami station, while visiting Atami. Some good places include the MOA Museum of Art, Kinomiya Shrine(来宮神社, Kinomiya Jinja), Akao Herb and Rose Garden, Kiunkaku, Izusan Shrine (伊豆山神社, Izusan Jinja), Atami Plum Garden, Atami Trick Art Museum, Atami Sun Beach, Atami Castle and the statue of Omiya and Kan-Ichi. We recommend taking the Atami ropeway to Mt. Hachiman (八幡山, Hachiman Yama) and admiring the scenery as well. Also be sure to check out some of the events in Atami, like Hatsushima's fireworks display and the Atami Sea Fireworks display. A Stroll Through Atami Summed Up Source :YouTube screenshot There are many shops on Atami Nakamise Shopping Street, where you can find local food and delicious sweets. Be sure to grab a map before strolling around Atami Nakamise Shopping Street as it will make your time in Atami much more easily navigable. The average time spent on Nakamise is about two hours. Checking the map and planning out where you want to go beforehand is great way to make sure you don't get overwhelmed by the crowd. There are cheap parking lots around the street as well, so keep that in mind if you plan on going by car. 【TripAdvisor】Atami Ginza Shopping District https://www.tripadvisor.com/ShowUserReviews-g298122-d19121792-r736995457-Atami_Ginza_Shopping_District-Atami_Shizuoka_Prefecture_Tokai_Chubu.html

Video introduction of interviews with craftsmen of the traditional handicraft "Gifu Wagasa" in Gifu City, Gifu Prefecture In this video [Express yourself, pass on the techniques – Gifu Wagasa]（心を伝え、技を承ぐ 〜岐阜和傘〜） we introduce to you one of the traditional Japanese crafts "Gifu Wagasa" through interviews with craftsmen who explain in detail their production process. The traditional Japanese paper umbrella is made from bamboo and Japanese washi paper and is a very beautiful and photogenic work of art. Gifu prefecture in the Tokai region of Japan is the largest producer of Japanese paper umbrellas in Japan. At its peak, there were approximately 16,000 people involved in Japanese paper umbrella work in Gifu prefecture's Kanou region. Currently, due to decrease in demand, there are only a few dozen people involved in the Japanese paper umbrella business, and they are under immense pressure to keep this tradition alive. In this article, we would like to introduce to you (together with the accompanying video) the history and manufacturing process of the Gifu Wagasa. The History of Gifu Wagasa Source :YouTube screenshot The Japanese paper umbrella dates back to the year 552AD, when umbrellas made from bamboo and paper called Karakasa were first produced. The traditional Japanese paper umbrella was commonly used for hundreds of years. In 1950, approximately 14 million Japanese-style umbrellas were produced. However, due to the spread and popularity of the Western-style umbrella, sales of Japanese-style umbrellas have dropped dramatically with only a few tens of thousands being produced in recent years. That being said, traditional Japanese style umbrellas such as the Nodategasa and Bangasa are still being produced and so the culture remains to this day. The photogenic appearance of the Gifu Wagasa makes it a wonderful souvenir or decoration and because of this, it has slowly begun to regain popularity. How Are Gifu Wagasa Made? Source :YouTube screenshot Over ten craftsmen are involved in the production of a single Gifu Wagasa and they can take anywhere from half a month to a month to make. The manufacturing process is divided into six steps. The first step, called Honekezuri, involves carving down bamboo to make ribs for the umbrella. Followed by Rokurozukuri, which involves making a section called Rokuro from a specific tree called Ehretia acuminata. After that, Ayatsurikomi, which slide into the Rokuro section, are made. Smaller bamboo ribs on the inner section of the umbrella called Kobone are tied together with string, a process which is called Tsunagi. From 3:34 in the video, you can see the bamboo structure of the umbrella and from 5:46 you can see how Japanese washi paper is attached to the umbrella (a process which is called Kamihari ). Finally, the umbrella receives the finishing touches, a process called "Shiage," which involves the application of oil, drying the umbrella in the sun, and then a final application of lacquer to complete the umbrella. There are other areas of work which only craftsmen with specific skills can carry out, however there is the fear that the number of such craftsmen will decline in the coming years. From 2:10 in the video, Masanori Haneda (a bamboo rib craftsman (竹骨師, takeboneshi)）speaks of how he became involved in making Gifu Wagasa. From 4:17, Toyoko Hayakawa (who holds the title of Tsunagi-shi and Kagari-shi) talks during an interview of the low demand for Gifu Wagasa in recent years. You can also watch interviews with several other craftsmen in this video. Get Your Own Gifu Wagasa! Photo：Wagasa There are many specialty Gifu Wagasa shops in Gifu Prefecture, such as Nakamuraya Kasaten, where you can purchase your own Gifu Wagasa. For those who are interested in purchasing their own Japanese paper umbrella, we recommend taking a trip to Gifu prefecture or checking out some of the online retailers where you can find Gifu Wagasa with beautiful artwork finishes. There are even very affordable Gifu Wagasa that can be purchased for as little as a few thousand yen. Recently, you can find very modern-looking cherry blossom design Japanese umbrellas for sale, produced in collaboration with the mobile game Idolmaster Cinderella Girls. Gifu Wagasa Craftsmen Video Summary Source :YouTube screenshot We hope you enjoyed learning about the Gifu Wagasa manufacturing process through the article and video. A wide variety of craftsmen are involved in the making of Gifu Wagasa, from the rib-makers to the canopy-makers. Recently, a project has been launched that aims to increase the number of Gifu Wagasa craftsmen in order to ensure this important traditional craft is passed on to the next generation. For anyone who would like to experience using a traditional Japanese-style umbrella, we recommend purchasing one from one of the online sites where you can find a variety of styles, all beautifully designed by skilled and experienced craftsmen.

Mishima Grand Festival, a festival of Mishima-taisha Shrine in Mishima City, Shizuoka Prefecture, Japan This video “[Official] MISHIMA FESTIVAL JAPAN" (しゃぎり!歴史ロマン!【公式】三嶋大祭りMISHIMA FESTIVAL JAPAN) is a promotional video of a festival with a profound history that is held in Mishima, Shizuoka. Mishima Festival is held from August 15th to 17th and it is a summer tradition in Mishima, Shizuoka, in Japan's Tokai region. The video condenses the highlights of the three-day summer Mishima Grand Festival, including the solemn Shinto ritual, the festival music called "Shagiri," the heroic floats and Tezutsu fireworks, and the Yabusame horseback archery ritual. First, please enjoy the 1 minute and 50 second video to your heart's content. What kind of festival is the Mishima Grand Festival and when is it in 2024? The Mishima Taisha Grand Festival and the "Tsuke Matsuri," a festival attached to the main festival, have been known as the "Mishima Summer Festival" in Mishima City, Shizuoka Prefecture. Today, it is called the "Mishima Grand Festival" as a festival that emphasizes "history, culture, and tradition. Held annually over three days on the same day in August, the Mishima Grand Festival is the largest festival in Mishima City, attracting approximately 500,000 visitors each year. 2024 dates are as follows. Dates: Thursday, August 15, Friday, August 16, and Saturday, August 17, 2024 Location: Central city area between Mishima Taisha Shrine and Mishima Hirokoji Station Access: 15-minute walk from Mishima Station on the JR Tokaido Honsen Line Mishima Grand Festival [First Day] Schedule Highlights "Floats and Shagiri Source :YouTube screenshot Mishima Grand Festival, one of the summer festivals in Mishima, Shizuoka Prefecture, is held from August 15 to 17 and is one of the main festivals of Mishima-taisha. On the first day of festival, you'll see floats decorated with drums, bells, and chimes parading throughout the town. Hearing the noises beckons people to continue to observe the activity. Please check the video at 0:22 and see the dynamic parade floats. They're perfect for taking Instagram photos. If you watch the video at 0:31, you'll see the sunset and the lanterns on the floats shine throughout the town. Mishima Grand Festival [Day 2] Highlights of the schedule: "Yoritomo no Kyoaku Flag Raising Procession" and "Tezutsu Fireworks". August 16th is day 2 for the Mishima Festival, and it is a day for traditional culture. On the second day, there will be a parade as well as the formal ceremony of Minamotono Yoritomo raising an army. Minamotono Yoritomo is a samurai with a history in Shizuoka. Every year, a Japanese celebrity performs the role of Minamotono Yoritomo, therefore, it attracts many visitors. In 2024, "Tomiei Drum" who was the drummer in the popular drama, Sunday Gekijo "VIVANT", will play the role of Lord Yoritomo. We are looking forward to seeing what kind of Lord Yoritomo he will be. Please check out the video at 0:50 to see an actor playing Minamotono Yoritomo. The performance and the armor of the participants for this event is very impressive. There are more performances such as the Kid’s Flute Piece and the dedication of Ninjomai and Uyarasumai. At 1:01 in the video, we see the Tezutsu fireworks display which is truly a magical sight. Mishima Grand Festival [Day 3] Schedule Highlights "Yabusame (horseback archery) ritual" and "Nohyo-bushi Parade Source :YouTube screenshot August 17th is the last day, and it is a day for dancing. On the last day, Yabusame Shinji is held, and many people visit to see this exciting event. Please see the video at 1:16 to see what Yabusame Shinji is. Anyone can participate in the "Nohyo-bushi Parade," a grand dance to the local folk song "Nohyo-bushi" between Mishima-taisha Shrine and Hirokoji, and the "Mishimasamba Parade," a dance to the lively rhythm of the local folk song. Both adults and children can enjoy the parade, and locals and tourists alike join in the excitement. Summary of the "Mishima Grand Festival" in Mishima City, Shizuoka Prefecture Source :YouTube screenshot Towards the end of the video at 1:38, many people get on Yagura (a wooden stage) and perform Mishima Bayashi. We have introduced a brief schedule for the three days, but please check the official website for the detailed schedule and program. The Mishima Grand Festival in Mishima City, Shizuoka Prefecture, is a heroic festival that brings excitement to Shizuoka during the Obon season. There will be fair stalls, night stalls, and street stalls where you can enjoy Japanese festivals, so be sure to wear a Japanese-style yukata to the festival. On the day of the festival, you can use the Mishima Taisha parking lot and the city's central parking lot, but it is recommended that you leave plenty of time for the festival as there will be traffic restrictions at nearby spots. 【Official Website】Mishima Festival https://www.mishima-cci.com/maturi/ 【Tripadvisor】Mishima Festival https://www.tripadvisor.com/ShowUserReviews-g780865-d1313050-r606940142-Mishima_Taisha_Shrine-Mishima_Shizuoka_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。

Video Introduction to the Kakita River, a Mysterious Clear Stream Rare in Japan, Located in Sunto-gun, Shizuoka Prefecture This video, titled "Explore the Enchanting Crystal Waters of Kakita River with 8KVR!!!" (『静岡県清水町』が制作の『神秘の清流 柿田川 〜8KVRで体験！空中散歩と絶景癒しスポット〜） was uploaded by "Shimizu, Shizuoka" (静岡県清水町). The Kakita River is Japan's shortest Class 1 river, one of the three clearest rivers in Japan along with the Nagara River and the Shimanto River, and is fed by spring water from Mt. Fuji. In 1985, the Kakita River was selected as one of the "100 Famous Bodies of Waters" by the Kakita River Spring Group because of the purity of its water. Be sure to take a look at the beautiful 8K VR video of the clear stream created by the spring water from Mt. Fuji. The Kakita River, a Clear Stream Filled With Spring Water From Mt. Fuji! Photo：Spring water at Kakita River Park The Kakita River is a Class 1 river in the Kano River system located in Shimizu, Shizuoka, in Japan's Tokai Region. It boasts the largest volume of spring water in Japan, and most of the water in the Kakita River is spring water from melting snow and rainwater from Mt. Fuji that seeps into the Mishima lava flow. It is one of the most unique rivers in Japan. It is one of the three clearest rivers in Japan and is also designated as a Natural Monument by the government of Japan in the category of geological minerals. The Kakita River stays at a cool 15°C throughout the year, with a constant volume, allowing the Mishima Baikamo, an underwater plant unique to rivers, to grow in abundance, nurturing a rich natural environment that provides comfort to the local people. At one time, factories moved into the area to exploit the abundant spring water, and the deteriorating quality of the water made it uninhabitable for fish. However, thanks to the efforts of the local people to improve the water quality and protect the habitat for kingfishers and various fish, the Kakita River continues to flow as a clear and transparent stream. What Gives the Kakita River Its Blue Color? Photo：Spring water at Kakita River Park Kakita River Park is located upstream of the Kakita River. Originally the ruins of Izumigashira Castle built by Hojo Ujiyasu, a daimyo known as "The Lion of Sagami," this historic place is home to one of the most photogenic spots on the Kakita River. The "Wakima," is one of the sources of the Kakita River and can be seen from the observation deck of Kakita River Park. This place was originally used as a well by a nearby factory. The blue-colored source seen from the second observation deck is a mysterious beauty and has become quite popular on Japanese social media. The Kakita River spring water appears blue because of the water's ability to absorb red light. The deeper the water gets, the bluer it becomes. The color of the spring water changes slightly depending on the season, weather, and time of day, but the deepest and most beautiful blue can be seen in the mornings during the summer. Highlights of Kakita River Park Photo：Kifune Shrine at Kakita River Park, Shizuoka In addition to the Wakima, you can also enjoy a picnic at Kakita River Park! You can rent a picnic set at the Shimizu Town Tourist Information Center "Wakura Kakita River" and have a picnic without having to bring your own equipment. You can also rent equipment for activities such as badminton, dodgeball, and Othello/Reversi. Kakita River Park is located in the town of Shimizu in Sunto Ward, not Shimizu Ward, so be sure not to mix them up if you plan on visiting! Kifune Shrine, famous for boosting one's luck in love, is located in Kakita River Park. This shrine is a branch of Kibune Shrine in Kyoto and is dedicated to the god of water, but it has become known as a shrine for praying for love. On the approach to the shrine, there is a stone monument, and touching the stone shaped like a rice ball is said to bring good luck. There is also a mizu-mikuji (water fortune) that when placed in water makes the characters appear, making it a popular power spot for couples and those seeking love. Restaurants Near the Kakita River Photo：Tofu cuisine at Kitchen Kawasemi There are a variety of restaurants and cafes near the Kakita River. At the roadside stop Yusui no Michi (湧水の道), adjacent to Kakita River Park, you can find Kitchen Kawasemi (キッチンかわせみ) and Shokuji-dokoro Kawasemi Honkan (食事処かわせみ本館) where you can enjoy tofu dishes using fresh spring water from the Kakita River. At Kitchen Kawasemi, you can enjoy cold tofu and yuba (tofu skin) the freshest wasabi. Coffee brewed with spring water from the Kakita River is also available. Shokuji-dokoro Kawasemi Honkan offers a kominka (traditional Japanese home) experience, with reservations given priority. Here, the serve bento boxed lunches with a choice of either hot tofu or cold tofu made the famous spring water from the area. Also nearby is a store where you can purchase tofu ice cream, firm or soft tofu made spring water, green rice crackers, and coffee beans called Kakitagawa Yusui Blend (柿田川湧水ブレンド). Stop by after a stroll in Kakita River Park! A Brief Overview of Shimizu, Shizuoka Shizuoka Prefecture is the 10th largest prefecture in Japan based on population (3.5 million), and is located 1 hour from Tokyo and Nagoya via shinkansen (bullet train). Shimizu is a small town located in northeastern Shizuoka with a population of just 32,000. It's close to both the sea and mountains and even hot springs. Summary of the Mysteriously Clear Kakita River The Kakita River is one of the smallest rivers in Japan, at approximately 1.2 km long. However, it's so transparent that it is one of the three clearest rivers in Japan. The blue spring water gushing up from the earth, which can be seen from the second observatory in Kakita River Park, is a popular, photogenic spot. Kakita River Park is also a sightseeing spot where families can enjoy picnics and outdoor activities during the spring and fall. Nearby is Sun to Moon Kakitagawa, a large commercial facility that includes a movie theater and a shopping mall. When sightseeing in Shizuoka Prefecture, be sure to stop by Shimizu! 【TripAdvisor】Kakita River Park

Video Introduction to Kawachiya, a Popular Dorayaki Shop in Shizuoka City, Shizuoka Prefecture This video, titled “Japanese Street Food - Japanese Pancake DORAYAKI Jiggly Fluffy Cake,” was uploaded by “Sushi Bomber TV｜Cooking Front Line” (Sushi Bomber TV クッキング最前線). Dorayaki is a classic Japanese sweet loved by the people of Japan! These sweets are also well known from the popular anime "Doraemon." Dorayaki is a snack that can be easily made at home with pancake mix and anko (sweet bean paste), but you'll appreciate the flavor even more after watching the skillful techniques of these confectioners! There are many autographs of famous people inside Kawachiya, and it's frequently featured on TV programs across Japan. Kawachiya was established in 1988 and the popular confectionery features a limit of five dorayaki per person, but this is because the owner wants as many people as possible to be able to try them. The Coca-Cola logo at the front of the shop, where the owner is demonstrating and selling the dorayaki, gives the shop a slightly retro look. Dorayaki – A Popular Japanese Confection Photo：Dorayaki Dorayaki is such a popular Japanese confection that there are famous stores all over Japan, but surprisingly few people know how to make it properly. The recipe differs from store to store, but here we'll share a simple recipe and the origin of the name "dorayaki." Dorayaki is a general term for Japanese sweets made of a disk-shaped sponge cake with sweet bean paste sandwiched in between. It is said that the name "dorayaki" came from the shape of the sponge cake, which resembles a gong, which in Japanese is 銅鑼, pronounced "dora." The dough is made of wheat flour, eggs, and honey, giving it a slightly Western feel, making it a very popular sweet regardless of age or gender. Recently, freezing technology has advanced to allow them to be stored for longer periods of time, making them a great souvenir or gift. The standard sweet bean paste used inside is "koshi-an" or "tsubu-an," but there are also unique stores that add "shiro-an" (white bean paste) or cream. As you can see at 9:10 in the video, a special version with peanut butter sandwiched between the freshly baked cakes is served to the waiting customers. Nowadays, machine made dorayaki are commonly available at supermarkets and convenience stores, but there's something special about eating freshly made, fluffy, and hot dorayaki made right before your eyes at a street vendor. The History of Dorayaki. Why Are There so Many Dorayaki Products With the Name “Mikasa”? Photo：Torayaki The origins of dorayaki date back hundreds of years, and it is said that there was already a confection like the one we known today in the Kamakura period (1192 to 1333 A.D.). It is said that the current style of sandwiching two pieces of sponge cake together became standard in the Showa period (1926–1989 A.D.), but in the Edo period (1603-1868 A.D.), it was common to fold the round baked dough around the sweet bean paste, sort of like a dorayaki taco. It's said that the major Japanese confectionery Bunmeido made Dorayaki famous nationwide, and since this company popularized Dorayaki under the product name of "Seika Mikasa-yama," many Dorayaki products have been named "Mikasa." There is also a theory that the names "Mikasa," "Mikasa-yaki," and "Mikasa-manju" are favored in Japan's Kansai region because they originate from Mt. Wakakusa, commonly referred to as Mt. Mikasa, in Nara Prefecture. There are also "Nama-dora" with whipped cream, "Torayaki" with tiger patterened cakes ("tora" means "tiger" in Japanese), and "Mushi-dora" where the cakes are steamed instead of baked. Famous Dorayaki Stores Across Japan In this article, we introduced the famous "Kawachiya," a confectionery in Shizuoka, but there are many stores all over Japan where the popular sweet, dorayaki, is sold. In Tokyo, there are three major dorayaki shops: "Kameju" in Asakusa, "Usagiya" in Ueno, and "Sogetsu" in Higashi-Jujo, all of which are crowded with customers seeking dorayaki every day. Dorayaki is also very popular in online rankings. "Suzumeya" in Minami-Ikebukuro, "Seijuken" in Nihonbashi, "Bairindo" which originated in Saitama Prefecture, the popular "Kouro-an" in Yokohama, "Ryoguchiya Korekiyo" in Nagoya, "Morihan" and "Taneya" in Kyoto are all famous wagashi stores with high rankings. Summary of Dorayaki, the Popular Japanese Confection Photo：Dorayaki being made One of the highlights of Kawachiya, the shop introduced here, is the is the teamwork of the husband and wife. The husband cooks up the delicious confections and the wife packages them diligently. The dorayaki, with its fluffy sponge cake and generous amount of sweet bean paste will have you coming back for more! It is also sold in an assortment with other Japanese sweets, making it a great gift. Some stores also offer a service where they'll print a face on the cakes for birthdays and celebrations, making it great for special occasions as well! 【TripAdvisor】Kawachiya https://www.tripadvisor.com/Restaurant_Review-g298124-d1704426-Reviews-Kawachiya-Shizuoka_Shizuoka_Prefecture_Tokai_Chubu.html

Fuji Opening Festival (Mt. Fuji Oyamabiraki)" in Fujinomiya City, Shizuoka Prefecture, celebrating the opening of Mt. This video, titled "Fujisan Kaizan climbing ceremony - Murayamasengen Shrine - Shizuoka 4K," was uploaded by "TokyoStreetView - Japan The Beautiful." This video introduces the Mt. Fuji Opening Festival, which marks the beginning of the climbing season on Mt. Fuji. Fuji, Japan's tallest mountain, straddling Shizuoka and Yamanashi prefectures, has four climbing routes, but the mountain is closed during the winter months. Shown in the video is the annual Mt. Fuji Opening Ceremony held in July to pray for the safety of climbers and trail users, which marks the start of the climbing season. This video introduces the opening ceremony at Murayama Sengen Shrine in Fujinomiya, Shizuoka, in Japan's Tokai region. Murayama Sengen Shrine, located at the entrance of the Murayama Trail, was once the site of Shugenja, or practitioners of Shugendo (mountain asceticism). Check out the video to see the mysterious entrance to the trail and the ritual burning held by the mountain priests. Murayama Sengen Shrine, Where the Mt. Fuji Opening Festival Is Held Photo：Murayama Sengen Shrine Murayama Sengen Shrine is located in Murayama, Fujinomiya City, Shizuoka Prefecture, and is one of the many Sengen shrines in Japan. It is a base for climbing Mt. Fuji and was a sacred place for mountain asceticism on Mt. Fuji. The entrance to the Mt. Fuji Murayamaguchi Trail gives visitors a sense of the mystical atmosphere of Mt. Fuji. In addition, large cedar and a ginkgo trees, designated as natural treasures by Shizuoka Prefecture, stand solemnly in the precincts of the shrine. The precincts of Murayama Sengen Shrine can be seen at 0:29 in the video, where the torii gate is shown. More About the Mt. Fuji Opening Festival Source :YouTube screenshot The Mt. Fuji Opening Festival is held at the Fujisan Hongu Sengen Taisha Shrine, the Gotemba New 5th Station Trailhead, and Murayama Sengen Shrine. Furthermore, Kaizan-zenyasai (The Eve of the Mountain Opening) is held the night before. Kaizan-zenyasai features a parade from Kanadorii Park to the Kitaguchi Hongu Fuji Sengen Shrine at the base of the Yoshidaguchi Trail, followed by a large Kagura performance (Shinto music and dance), and a variety of other Shinto rituals. After the declaration of the opening of Mt. Fuji during the festival at Mt. Fuji Hongu Sengen Taisha Shrine, there will be a prayer performed by the head priest, a tamagushi offering, and a dedication of spring water that was drawn from the Mt. Fuji area. In addition, a Mt. Fuji opening ceremony, formal visit to the mountain, a declaration of the opening of the mountain, and various other rituals are held at Murayama Sengen Shrine. Fuji Hongu Sengen Taisha also features Tezutsu Hanabi (traditional Japanese fireworks) in the evening. A purification ceremony and other rituals can be seen at 1:34 in the video. The Mt. Fuji Opening Ceremony is followed by a departure ceremony for the mountain rescue team, the announcement and succession of the Miss Fuji contest, and the Mt. Fuji Kami Akari Lantern Contest (かみ灯りコンテスト) of lights made of Japanese paper made from Mitsumata are exhibited in the corridor. In addition, an otaue (rice planting festival) is held to express gratitude for the spring water of Mt. Fuji and pray for a bountiful harvest. The day after the Mt. Fuji Opening Festival, the Kusushi Shrine Opening Ceremony is held at the inner shrine on the summit of Mt. Fuji. Shuin stamps are awarded during the opening of Mt. Fuji as well. In August, before the closing of Mt. Fuji, the Kusushi Shrine Closing Festival is held at the inner sanctuary atop Mt. Fuji, marking the end of the events that take place when the mountain is open. Summary of the Mt. Fuji Opening Festival In this video "Fujisan Kaizan climbing ceremony - Murayamasengen Shrine - Shizuoka 4K," you can see beautiful 4K footage of the Mt. Fuji Opening Festival. Murayama Sengen Shrine is a 20-minute drive from Fujinomiya Station along the Tokai Railway's Minobu Line. Parking is available in the vicinity. Check out the video to get a taste of the sacred atmosphere of the shrine. 【Official Website】Mt. Fuji Kaizan-zenyasai - [Official] Fujiyoshida Tour Guide https://fujiyoshida.net/en/see-and-do/148

Video introduction of “Sekinodo,” a famous confectionery in Kameyama City, Mie Prefecture This video, titled "[4K video] 'Seki no To' – A Famous Confectionery Offered to the Imperial Family of Kyoto: Kameyama, Mie | nippon.com" (【4K動画】京の皇族にも献納された銘菓「関の戸」:三重県亀山市| nippon.com), was uploaded by nippon.com. "Seki no To" was created by the long-established store "Fukawaya," a Japanese confectionery shop in Kameyama, Mie, located in Japan's Tokai region. The shop was founded in the Kan'ei era (1624-1645) during the reign of Iemitsu, the third Tokugawa shogun, and Seki no To was thought up of by Iyoyasushige Hattori, a descendant of ninja. Seki no To was once used by the Imperial Household as a sweet to be paired with tea. There was even a special box that was used to deliver Seki no To to the Imperial Household. At 1:45 in the video, you can see the luxury container in which the sweets would have been stored. This traditional Japanese sweet has been loved by many people for hundreds of years, so be sure to check it out in the video! The Ingredients Used to Make Seki no To! Source :YouTube screenshot The ingredients used to make the traditional Japanese sweet are brown sugar, wasanbon, gyuhi, mizuame, and azuki beans. Seki no To is an elegant rice cake measuring roughly 3 cms in diameter. It is made by kneading mizuame and rice cake powder together and putting red bean paste inside of it. In the video, you can see the recipe for Seki no To and how it's made at 0:54 in the video. Seki no To has a shelf life of just 15 days, so be sure to enjoy it before it expires! The long-established store "Fukawaya" that sells "Seki no To" also has "Seki no To Ice Milk" a tasty ice cream. "Seki no to Ice Milk" is also very popular and is made by dissolving Seki no To in milk. Where to Purchase Seki no To Source :YouTube screenshot There are three ways to purchase Seki no To: ・At Fukawaya, the store in Mie Prefecture ・At Fukawaya's online shop ・At department stores across Japan In recent years, Fukawaya has also made and sold glass art called "Seki no To Amabie" to ward off evil. Summary of Seki no To - A Traditional Japanese Sweet Seki no To is a traditional Japanese sweet with a history dating back nearly 400 years. The name Seki no To is not only used for the traditional sweet, but also for the name of songs, kabuki plays, and even in the names of sumo wrestlers. Fukawaya, located in Mie Prefecture, has been manufacturing and selling Seki no To since the Edo period (1603-1868) as a long-established Japanese confectionery shop. If you're planning on visiting Kameyama City in Mie Prefecture, be sure to drop by Fukawaya to buy some famous, traditional Japanese sweets! 【Tripadvisor】Fukawaya https://www.tripadvisor.com/Restaurant_Review-g1019674-d3868245-Reviews-Fukagawaya_Mutsudaisho_Seki_No_To-Kameyama_Mie_Prefecture_Tokai_Chubu.html

The Eel Restaurant "Kiyomura" in Shizuoka City, Shizuoka Prefecture This Video Shows the Chefs at the Eel Shop "Kiyomura" Making Unaju With Live Eel! The best thing about Kiyomura's unaju is that it's extremely cost effective. Unaju is usually priced at around 3,000 yen, but at Kiyomura you can get it for as little as 1,800 yen! In the video, you can see the live eel being flayed and skewered in one fell swoop. Be sure to check it out! ◆Kiyomura Store Information◆ 【Address】4-14-5 Mabuchi, Suruga, Shizuoka, Shizuoka 【Access】An 18-minute walk from Shizuoka Station, or 10 minutes by bus from Shizuoka Station 【Avg cost.】¥1800+ 【Hours】11:00-21:00 【Closures】None 【Parking】Available 【Phone】054-287-5045 【Tabelog】Kiyomura https://tabelog.com/en/shizuoka/A2201/A220101/22017921/

Video Introduction to Dogashima, Kamo-gun, Shizuoka Prefecture This video, "Dogashima - Shizuoka - 堂ヶ島 - 4K Ultra HD" was produced by “TokyoStreetView- Japan The Beautiful.” It introduces beautiful views of Dogashima in Shizuoka prefecture in 4K resolution. Dogashima, located in Nishizu-cho, Kamo-gun, Shizuoka Prefecture in Japan's Tokai region, is an area famous for the fishing industry. It is also called the "Matsushima of Izu" for its beautiful scenery. (Matsushima is one of the "Three Views of Japan"). You can enjoy marine sports such as diving, as well as tour famous spots by boat in Dogashima. Dogashima faces Suruga Bay and has beautiful scenic views. Trips like this, where you can explore famous local areas, are growing in popularity. What Kind of Place Is Dogashima? Photo：Dogashima Dogashima was formed by underwater debris flow from ancient eruptions, and from the pumice/volcanic ash layer that fell and piled up on top of that. It is thought that the waves carving away at this geological layer created the steep cliffs and strangely shaped rocks that you can see in the video. The towering cliffs can be seen from the beginning of the video. There is a famous spot called Dogashima Tensodo Cave in Dogashima, which was formed by the waves eroding the ceiling of a sea cave, and the ceiling collapsing as a result. You can also enjoy this beautiful sight by going on a cruise, such as the Blue Cave Tour Boat and the Dogashima Cave Excursion Boat, Senganmon Cruise boat. The Islands of Dogashima Photo：Dogashima Tombolo The islands of the Dogashima area are: Zoshima (Denbe Island), Nakanoshima, Okinose Island, and Takashima Island. They are also called Sanshirojima. The name Sanshiro comes from the name of a vassal of Minamoto no Yoritomo, who was called “Izu’s Sanshiro.” At low tide, sandbars appear at Zoshima. This phenomenon is called "Dogashima’s Tombolo," and you can walk across this land formation. On a sunny day, you can also enjoy the beautiful sunset gleaming across the islands. Recommended Spots in the Nishiizu Area Photo：Image of Nishiizu Dogashima promenade In the Dogashima area, try to stop by the Dogashima Promenade, the Instagrammable sights of Namakokabe Street, and the Kayama Yuzo Museum. There’s also Sawada Kouen Rotenburo, Dogashima Garden, Izu Nature School, and the suspension bridge at Ran no Sato, all of which are popular tourist destinations. If you’re looking to grab something to eat, we recommend Seafood Dining Iwaya and Dogashima Shokudo. Onsen hotels, such as New Ginsui, Dogashima Accueil Sanshiro, and Umibe no Kakureyu Seiryu are all great choices where you can enjoy hot springs as well. In the footage, you can see the port town around the Dogashima area at 2:29 in the video. Enjoy the townscape of Dogashima! Summary of Dogashima Photo：Dogashima Cruise Dogashima is popular area in Shizuoka prefecture where you can enjoy the amazing scenery of the ocean. Try going on a cruise in Dogashima and enjoy a beautiful view of the islands. If you are planning to go to the Dogashima area in Izu, check out the information on the Izu Peninsula Geopark information site. ◆Dogashima Area Overview◆ 【Address】Dogashima, Nishna, Nishiizu-cho, Kamo-gun, Shizuoka Prefecture 【Acccess】70 minutes by bus from Shuzenji Station of the Izuhakone Railway, 60 minutes by bus from Izukyu-Shimoda Station 【Parking】 Available（Free Parking） 【Official Website】Nishiizu Tourist Guide | Dogashima – Nishiizu Town Tourism Association https://en.nishiizu-kankou.com/ 【Tripadvisor】Dogashima https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g1121209-d2167482-Reviews-Dogashima_Island-Nishiizu_cho_Kamo_gun_Shizuoka_Prefecture_Tokai_Chubu.html