The Breathtaking Cherry Blossoms of Mt. Yoshino This video, titled "Yoshino Cherry Blossoms 吉野山の桜 [8K]," was uploaded by "Japan Explorers." Enjoy the beautiful cherry blossoms of Mt. Yoshino in high-quality 8K video, that truly captures the scenery of Japan. Mt. Yoshino, introduced in the video, is a generic name for the ridge of mountains leading from the south bank of the Yoshino River to the Omine Mountain Range in the town of Yoshino in Yoshino County, Nara Prefecture, located in Japan's Kansai region. There is also a theory that it is the name of a wide area dotted with temples and shrines, centering on Kinpusenji Temple. The area around Mt. Yoshino is said to be a famous place for flowers, not just their famous cherry blossoms, and there are even records that tell of Toyotomi Hideyoshi visiting for cherry blossom viewing. From 1:29 in the video, you can see the beautiful cherry blossoms in full bloom in front of the main hall of Kinpusenji Temple (Zao Hall), a World Heritage Site. What Makes Mt. Yoshino the Best Place in Japan for Cherry Blossom Viewing? Photo：The Senbonzakura of Mt. Yoshino, Yoshino, Nara There are many famous places for cherry blossom viewing in Japan, and all of them have splendid views of cherry blossoms worthy of a title, but there's a good reason why the cherry blossoms of Mt. Yoshino are said to be "the best in Japan." The vocaloid masterpiece "Senbonzakura" (千本桜, lit. One Thousand Cherry Blossoms) is said to have been inspired by the thousand cherry blossoms of Mt. Yoshino. Moreover, from the beginning to the end of April, the cherry blossoms bloom up the mountain in ascending order starting with the thousand at the foot of the mountain, followed by the thousand of the middle section, the thousand at the peak of the mountain, and finally the thousand in the deeper reaches of the mountain. In other words, it can be said that Mt. Yoshino is worthy of the title "No. 1 in Japan" simply because it allows for cherry blossom viewing for an entire month. Yoshino-Kumano National Park, which includes Mt. Yoshino, is designated as a National Place of Scenic Beauty and a historic site, and Mt. Yoshino is also included in the "Sacred Sites and Pilgrimage Routes in the Kii Mountain Range," a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Naturally, it has also been selected as one of the " Top 100 Places to View Cherry Blossoms in Japan." The History of Mt. Yoshino, the Most Famous Place to View Cherry Blossoms in Japan Photo：The Yoshino Ropeway, Yoshino, Nara The history of cherry blossoms on Mt. Yoshino dates back more than a thousand years with documents mentioning the cherry blossoms of Mt. Yoshino as far back as the Heian period (794-1185). Since the Yoshino Cherry, which bears the name "Yoshino," is an ornamental cherry tree that was refined during the Edo period (1603-1868 A.D.), there are many more varieties planted on Mt. Yoshino, and it is said that there are approximately 30,000 of them covering the entirety of the mountain. The reason why Mt. Yoshino became a famous place for cherry blossoms is that cherry blossoms were considered to be the sacred tree of Zao Gongen, a mountain deity of Shugendo, an ancient religion in Japan. It is said that En no Ozuno, considered the founder of Shugendo, practiced asceticism on Mt. Kinpu and attained enlightenment through the manifestation of the bodhisattva Zao Gongen. At that time, they carved a statue of the bodhisattva Zao Gongen out of a cherry tree and worshipped it, and it became a custom for mountain ascetics in the past to carve a statue of Zao Gongen out of a cherry tree on Mt. Yoshino. As a result, cherry trees were planted all over the mountain, and it became a popular topic of conversation among commoners as a place where they could view thousands of splendid cherry blossoms in one location, making it the most famous cherry blossom viewing location in Japan. Furthermore, the Yoshino Ropeway, the oldest ropeway in Japan, is another must-see location for cherry blossom viewing. It was founded in 1929 and has a history of more than 90 years. The pillars, built in 1928 when the ropeway opened, are in use even now, showcasing the high-level Japanese architectural technology, even at that time. The Recommended Route for Cherry Blossom Viewing on Mt. Yoshino Photo：Senbonzakura seen from the Hanayagura Observatory, Yoshino, Nara Mt. Yoshino is a place for leisurely enjoyment that can be enjoyed throughout all of Japan's four seasons. You can enjoy not only the cherry blossom season, but also autumn leaves, early summer hydrangeas, snowy winter scenery, the hot springs of Yoshino, temples and shrines, and even quiet places to go for a walk through the forests of Yoshino. In particular, the recommended route for viewing the cherry blossoms is from Yoshino Station to Saigyoan. On the way you'll see: ・Kumoi-no-Sakura (雲井の桜) ・Takizakura (滝桜) ・Nunobiki-no-Sakura (布引の桜) ・Tennin-no-Sakura (天人桜) ・Yumemizakura (夢見桜) ・Goshozakura (御所桜) ・Arashiyama-no-Sakura (嵐山の桜) ・Sekiyazakura (関屋桜) ・Yonhonzakura (四本桜) ・Senbonzakura (千本桜) ・Hanazonosan-no-Sakura (花園山の桜) These are the famous places you can stop by where many wild cherry trees can be seen in full bloom. In addition, the views from Hanayagura Observatory and Shimosenbon Observatory at an elevation of about 600m, showcase a panoramic view of 30,000 cherry blossoms of around 200 different species! When they're in full bloom, they're lit up and you can enjoy spectacular views of cherry blossoms at night. Since Mt. Yoshino covers a large area, it's also recommended as a driving course for private vehicles, rental cars, and buses. Summary of Mt. Yoshino, the Most Famous Place to View Cherry Blossoms in Japan In this article, we introduced some of the history and highlights of Mt. Yoshino alongside the video showcasing the cherry blossoms in full bloom. We hope you enjoyed it! There are many other attractions around Mt. Yoshino, such as Zao Hall, and Yoshimizu Shrine, both World Heritage Sites. Also, since it was originally a sacred place for Shugendo, there are plenty of accommodation facilities, such as Sakuramotobou (桜本坊) that were originally for mountain ascetics. Please check the official website of the Mt. Yoshino Tourism Association for directions to Mt. Yoshino, parking information, bloom forecasts, and more. The mascot character "Pinkle" chan will guide you! 【Official Website】Mt. Yoshino Tourist Association, Nara Prefecture http://www.yoshinoyama-sakura.jp/english/ 【TripAdvisor】Mt. Yoshino https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g1121327-d1384139-Reviews-Mt_Yoshino-Yoshino_cho_Yoshino_gun_Nara_Prefecture_Kinki.html

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

Osaka's Danjiri Festival: The Most Dangerous Festival in Japan? This video [2019 Danjiri Festival's Accidents and Unexpected Events]（令和元年　だんじり祭り　事故＆ハプニング集） is a video summarizing events that took place during Osaka's traditional Danjiri Festival. During the Danjiri festival, Danjiri festival floats are pulled along the streets at amazing speeds. They fly past the front of people's homes at full speed grazing street lights and barely avoiding crashes but unfortunately accidents do occur from time to time. This video contains a collection of exciting footage from the Danjiri festival, including accidents and other shocking scenes. Please enjoy the thrilling footage! What Is the Danjiri Festival? Source :YouTube screenshot The Danjiri festival is a traditional religious festival held in Kishiwada, Osaka in the Kansai region of Japan. It dates back to the Edo period (1603–1868AD) and originates from the shrine lanterns of the time. There are several Danjiri festivals held in the central area of the Kinki region of Japan: Kishiwada Danjiri Festival, Haruki Danjiri Festival, Kobe Danjiri Festival and Sakai Danjiri Festival to name a few. The Danjiri Festival is held every year to pray for a good harvest and attracts many viewers keen to take a look at the exciting event. The wooden floats decorated with beautiful carvings are pulled around the town on ropes and considered by many to be works of art. Accidents Are Unavoidable During the Festival? Source :YouTube screenshot Accidents and unexpected events happen almost every year during Osaka's Danjiri festival. This video contains footage of the festival floats toppling over, crashing into lamp posts and other dangerous accidents due to the high speed they are being pulled around at. A method called "Yarimawashi" (やりまわし) used to help the floats turn right-angled street corners at high speed is one of the most thrilling and suspenseful moments of the festival. Accidents are particularly prone to happening on rainy days or during the darker hours of the evening. This can be seen at 2:57, 3:18, 6:23 and 8:14 in the video. Some years accidents are so dangerous that they have unfortunately resulted in death. Source :YouTube screenshot The highlight of this video has to be at 13:36 when one of the floats crashes into a street light which breaks and falls over. You can feel just how terrifying that must have been! Again at 14:50 you can see a float crash into a street curb and topple over. There are also many moments when the floats shake violently from side to side and come close to toppling over, occasionally actually falling over in front of spectators. Attending even as a spectator can put your life at risk! As you've probably noticed from the video at 5:45, 6:45, and 7:08, those pulling the floats cannot let go of the ropes even if they fall over and as a result end up being dragged along the street. The reason being, is that there is a danger of being trampled by the float if one let's go of the ropes, therefore there is a rule that one must hold onto the rope no matter what. Danjiri Festival Summary Source :YouTube screenshot We hope you enjoyed our video compilation of the thrilling events that take place during the Danjiri fesival. With serious accidents being a regular occurrence, it's safe to say that the Danjiri festival is one of the most dangerous festivals in Japan. Even so, every year many visitors come to watch and take part in the festival. There are many food stands and the large number of spectators make this is a very lively and exciting festival! ◆Kishiwada Danjiri Festival Introduction Summary◆ 【Event date】Every year in the middle of August 【Access】JR Kishiwada station (JR岸和田駅, JR Kishiwadaeki) or JR Haruki station (JR春木駅, JR Harukieki) 【Official Website】Kishiwada Danjiri Festival https://translate.google.co.jp/translate?hl=ja&sl=ja&tl=en&u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.city.kishiwada.osaka.jp%2Fsite%2Fdanjiri%2F 【Tripadvisor】Danjiri Festival (September festival) https://www.tripadvisor.com/ShowUserReviews-g1023471-d10019374-r362673132-Danjiri_Matsuri_September-Kishiwada_Osaka_Prefecture_Kinki.html

The Giant Salamander of Kyoto's Kamo River! This is a video of the Giant Salamander, a protected species, that appeared in Kyoto's Kamo River. The giant salamander is the world’s largest amphibian. The characteristics of giant salamanders is their large body, which is approximately 150cm (~5 ft.) long. Giant salamanders have not changed in form since ancient times, and as such, they are referred to as "living fossils." What Are Giant Salamanders? Photo：Giant salamander Japanese Giant Salamanders belong to the animalia kingdom, chordata phylum, and amphibia class. They are also referred to as "Hanzaki" in Japanese. It is an endemic species living in the south western part of Japan. The mucus giant salamanders secrete on their skin smells like Japanese pepper (Sansho), so they are called "Sansho Uo" in Japanese. Chinese giant salamanders are very similar to Japanese giant salamanders. There's not much difference between Japanese giant salamanders and Chinese giant salamanders, and it is difficult to identify them based on appearance. In China, there is a theory that earthquakes occurs when giant salamanders appear. Are There Many Giant Salamanders Living in Kyoto's Kamo River? Photo：Kyoto As you can see in the video, giant salamanders are often seen in Kyoto's Kamo River basin. However, according to genetic research in the Kyoto area, the native species are extinct and the ones currently living in the city are likely to be non-native, hybrids, or a new species. In Kyoto, heavy rains and typhoons often cause the Kamo River to flood. After it rains, you can find salamanders that were washed downstream from Kumogahata village. The video begins with a giant salamander, over 1 meter in length, walking slowly along the path. It stops moving after 0:07, but you can see it slowly raising its head a couple of times. Giant Salamanders at the Kyoto Aquarium! Photo：Giant salamander At Kyoto Aquarium, there is a special display area of giant salamanders, and if you're lucky, you may even hear their low guttural call. You can also buy stuffed giant salamanders at the aquarium's souvenir shop. At the aquarium, more research is being done on giant salamanders. According to studies, the average life expectancy of a Giant Salamander is 80 years, but some live more than 200 years. Summary of the Giant Salamander at Kamo River Source :YouTube screenshot Many of you may have been surprised by the sheer size of the salamander in the video. There are many reports of salamander sightings along the Kamo River, so it's a good place to stop by when sightseeing in Kyoto. You can also visit the Kyoto Aquarium to learn more about the biology of the Japanese giant salamander. 【Official Website】Kyoto Aquarium- A short walk from Umekoji-Kyotonishi Station https://www.kyoto-aquarium.com/

Harie Shozu no Sato - The Village of Living Water This 4K video, titled "Harie Shozu-no-sato - Shiga - 針江生水の郷 - 4K Ultra HD," was released by "TokyoStreetView - Japan The Beautiful." It introduces magnificent views of "Harie Shozu no Sato," the Village of Living Water, a popular sightseeing destination in Takashima, Shiga. In Harie Shozu no Sato in Shiga Prefecture, the beautiful local spring water has long been used by the people in everyday life. This article will introduce tourist information for the Village of Living Water, a place where people live in harmony with nature. Be sure to follow along with the video! The Village of Living Water in Shiga Prefecture Source :YouTube screenshot The Harie district of Takashima, Shiga, a place not far from Shirahige Shrine, is also called "Shozu no Sato" and "Junsui no Sato" in Japanese. The spring water in this area comes from underground, and has existed for more than 200 years. In 2015, Harie Shozu no Sato was selected as a Japanese heritage site under "Lake Biwa and its Surrounding Waters." Let's take a look at the beautiful scenery of the Village of Living Water. You can see the beautiful water flowing along the side of the road from 0:08 in the video. The Wisdom of Our Ancestors Passed Down in the Village of Living Water Source :YouTube screenshot A Kabata is system that uses water from a spring for domestic use. The cleanest water upstream is used as drinking water, and downstream there is a small pool for washing vegetables. This can be seen from 0:50 in the video. Also shown at 2:08 in the video, you can see how carp are kept in the waterway, downstream of where the dishes are washed, and they eat leftover food to clean the water. The Uehara Tofu Shop (上原豆腐店) along the riverside, which can be seen from 2:57 in the video, sells exquisite tofu chilled in the waterways, so be sure to try some and enjoy the local flavors of the area during your visit. Hidden Gems and Famous Locations in Harie Source :YouTube screenshot The Biwako Visitors Bureau, a public interest incorporated association, offers tours such as the "Kabata and Townscape Course" and the "Satoyama Lakeside Course." If you're looking to go sightseeing in the Village of Living Water, we recommend applying for a guided tour and seeing the recommended routes. There is also a hotel in Harie that has been renovated from an old Japanese-style house. Staying at an inn like this is a great way to experience Japanese culture. Summary of Harie Shozu no Sato - The Village of Living Water Source :YouTube screenshot The area around Harie Shozu no Sato is great for those looking to experience the beauty of nature and traditional Japanese culture. Take a wonderful sightseeing trip to enjoy the magnificent scenery of Harie Shozu no Sato, a place where beautiful water flows through the village. 【Tripadvisor】Harie Shozu no Sato - The Village of Living Water https://www.tripadvisor.com/ShowUserReviews-g1023578-d6611968-r247141189-Harie_Shozu_no_Kabata-Takashima_Shiga_Prefecture_Kinki.html

Cherry Blossoms in Full Bloom, a Spring Tradition in Japan This video, titled "Beautiful Sakura & Shrines in Japan 4K --UltraHD Background Video," was released by "Tel Stewart." It introduces scenery of cherry blossoms at popular cherry blossom viewing spots in Japan. When spring arrives, the Japanese archipelago is covered with cherry blossoms in full bloom, creating beautiful pink landscapes. In addition to varieties such as the Yoshino cherry and Yaezakura, various endemic varieties, made through crossbreeding during the Muromachi Period (1336 to 1573 AD), bloom in popular cherry blossom viewing spots in Japan. There are some characteristic varieties, such as Sumizome cherry blossoms, that are slightly grayish, as well as other varieties like Kawazu cherry blossoms that bloom early, so sit back and enjoy the different varieties of cherry blossoms in the video! The Charm of Fushimi Inari, a Popular Tourist Destination in Kyoto Photo：The thousand torii gates at Fushimi Inari Shrine, Kyoto At Fushimi Inari Shrine, known as a popular tourist destination in Kyoto, you can stroll through the famous vermilion torii gates which can be seen from 1:19 in the video. On the grounds of Fushimi Inari Shrine, a National Site of Scenic Beauty, beautiful Yoshino cherry blossoms bloom in the spring and delight the eyes of travelers. Fushimi Inari Shrine is a tourist spot where you can enjoy fresh greenery in the summer and beautiful autumn leaves in the fall, and we highly recommend it to those looking to enjoy the marvelous scenery of Japan's four seasons. Fushimi Inari Shrine is also ranked number one one the list of popular tourist destinations for inbound tourists. Sightseeing at Famous Cherry Blossom Locations in Japan! Photo：Miharu Waterfall Cherry Blossoms, Fukushima Prefecture There are many tourist spots in Japan where you can enjoy a spectacular view of cherry blossoms. In particular, the Miharu Takizakura in Fukushima Prefecture, Yamanashi Prefecture's Yamataka Jindai-zakura, and Gifu Prefecture's Neoya Usuzumi Zakura, known as the three major cherry blossoms spots in Japan, are all worth checking out. These cherry trees are estimated to be 1,000 to 2,000 years old, and the sight of the cherry blossoms in full bloom on the giant trees is a sight to behold. The combination of the previous three famous locations, together with the Ishitokaba Zakura in Saitama Prefecture and Gebazakura in Shizuoka Prefecture's Kariyado, are called the "Five Great Cherry Blossoms of Japan." Take a look at the beautiful trees selected as part of the "Top 100 New Japanese Trees." In the video, you can also see the cherry blossoms at "Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden," a place where you can enjoy cherry blossom viewing in the big city of Shinjuku. From 2:37 in the video, you can see the beautiful cherry blossoms blooming against the backdrop of urban buildings. Tips for Enjoying Japan's Cherry Blossom Viewing Tradition Photo：Cherry blossom viewing The temperature of the Japanese archipelago varies from region to region, and so the time when cherry blossoms bloom varies as well. In the spring, news of bloom forecasts for each region is broadcast in Japan, and when cherry blossoms begin blooming, famous places and parks nationwide are crowded with many people flocking to see the beautiful flowers. Japanese people look forward to the end of the long winter and the arrival of cherry blossoms each year. The cherry blossoms are ephemeral flowers that disappear almost as fast as they arrive, but the spectacular view of cherry blossoms blizzards with pink petals fluttering about is also plentiful. Summary of Japan's Beautiful Cherry Blossoms Photo：Cherry blossoms, Someiyoshino As you can see in the video, Japan's cherry blossom scenery and especially the cherry blossom blizzards are truly breathtaking. If you're looking to enjoy sightseeing in Japan during spring, be sure to visit the scenic shrines and cherry blossom spots all over the country!

Hashihaka Kofun This is the online video "Visit the History Books - Nihon Shoji - Nara / Hashihaka Kofun（史書を訪ねて　「日本書記」　奈良・箸墓古墳）" produced by the Yomiuri Shimbun. It introduces the oldest burial mound in Japan, found in Nara Prefecture in the Kansai region. The Hashihaka Kofun is a repellent round tumulus that is over 200 meters long. Hashihaka Kofun is said to have been built in the late 3rd century, between the Yayoi period (c. 300 BC to c. 250 C.E.) to the Kofun period (c. 350 to C.C. 700). The Imperial Household Agency manages it as the tomb of Emperor Korei's daughter and therefore, entry is forbidden. The greenery covering Hashihaka Kofun has been designated as a natural scenic monument of the historical site, and the surrounding moat has been selected as one of the top 100 reservoirs in Japan. Feel the atmosphere of the mysterious Hashihaka Kofun from the video. The Oldest Keyhole-Shaped Tomb Source :YouTube screenshot According to the Nihon Shoki (Chronicles of Japan), Hashihaka Kofun is said to be the tomb of the daughter of Emperor Korei. It is also said that there are similarities between the queen of Yamatai, Himiko, who is described in literature such as Gishi Wajinden. Some researchers have argued that there has been controversy over the birth of the Yamato kingship and the position of the Hashihaka Kofun. As you can see from 0:54 in the video, the Municipal Burial Culture Center in Sakurai City, stores a plate-shaped "Shibayama Stone" excavated near Hashihaka Kofun. Shibayama stone is believed to have been used to build the stone chamber, and it is said that it was taken from basalt excavated in Kashiwara City, Osaka Prefecture, about 18 km west of Hashihaka Kofun. In addition, many excavated items such as earthenware and wooden products have been confirmed. Muon survey of Hashihaka Kofun Source :YouTube screenshot In the past, archaeological / historical researchers and others have entered Hashihaka Kofun with permission from the Imperial Household Agency, but the mystery of Hashihaka Kofun has not been clarified. In 2012, a three-dimensional laser measuring device mounted on a helicopter was used, revealing a detailed portrait. Also, in January 2020, Kashihara Archaeological Research Institute, which studies Hashihaka Kofun, announced that it would investigate the internal structure from outside using elementary particles called "muon" that penetrate substances. Attention is being paid as to whether future research results will lead to the unraveling of Hashihaka Kofun. According to many years of research, Hashihaka Kofun is said to be a rare burial mound in Japan, with no traces of invasion from tomb raiders. Summary of Hashihaka Kofun Photo：Sakurai Line In this article, we introduced Hashihaka Kofun. There is a group of ancient tombs in the center of Machiko, located mainly at Hashihaka Kofun in Sakurai City, Nara Prefecture. Access to Hashihaka Kofun is a 15-minute walk from Makimukai Station on the JR Sakurai Line. There is also a parking lot. Is it really Himiko's tomb? Soak in the magnificent atmosphere and solve the ancient puzzle. 【Official Website】The Official Nara Travel Guide https://www.visitnara.jp/

Introducing Kakurin Temple Temple Source :Kakurin Temple Temple Official Twitter Right now, Japan is experiencing an unprecedented amount of inbound tourism. Have you ever wanted to visit a temple in peace and quiet, only to be disappointed by the sheer number of tourists? There's actually a lot of quiet sightseeing spots just a short distance away if you don't mind venturing just a bit further. This video, titled "Kakogawa City PR Video｜Kakurin-ji Temple" (【兵庫県加古川市ＰＲ動画】鶴林寺), created by "Kakogawa Tourism Association" introduces Totasan Kakurin Temple (Kakurinji), located in Kakogawa, east of the Harima area of Hyogo. There are many formal shrines and temples around the area. It is extremely accessible, being just 30 minutes from Kobe (JR Sannomiya Station) and 10 minutes from Himeji on the Special Rapid Express train, making it a hidden tourist attraction and a historic sacred site. The video shows a woman sightseeing at Kakurin Temple Temple. Enjoy the sights and sounds of Kakurin Temple Temple through the video! The History of Kakurin Temple Source :Kakurin Temple Temple Official Twitter Kakurin Temple has a deep connection with Prince Shotoku, who is known for spreading Buddhism in Japan. Eben, a monk from Goryeo, afraid of Buddhist abolitionists, evacuated to Harima. In 585, the young Prince Shotoku, 12 at the time, visited from the and received the teachings of Buddha. This is said to be the beginning of Kakurin Temple. During Kamakura period, (1185-1333) the worship of Prince Shotoku became popular and the temple reached its peak. During Warring States period, (1467-1615), when the country was on the brink of war, Kuroda Kanbei, the lord of Himeji Castle, and his father Mototaka forced to relinquish the castle to Oda Nobunaga to avoid complete annihilation. Kakurin Temple Temple is one of the most representative temples in Kakogawa, with many National Treasures and Important Cultural Properties. The temple is called "Otsurusan" by the locals. In the fall, the trees at the temple turn red and it become a popular place for moon viewing. You can also try zen meditation and sutra-copying, which are shown at 0:55 in the video. It's popular photogenic sightseeing spot among tourists from abroad who are interested in Japanese culture. The Cultural Properties of Kakurin Temple Temple Source :Kakurin Temple Temple Official Twitter There are 45 Cultural Properties at Kakurin Temple Temple, including the main hall and Taishi-do Hall, which are both national treasures. You can see the main hall at 0:27 and Taishi-do Hall from 1:07 in the video. The temple is called "Harima's Horyu-ji" and the Main Hall, Nio-zo and Three-storied Pagoda are truly spectacular. There are many paintings and Buddhist statues stored at the temple, and the most famous one is a standing bronze statue of the Goddess of Mercy, "Aitata Kannon." There is a legend that says that when the statue was stolen, the thief hurt his back and screamed "aitata!," and was so surprised that he repented and returned the statue to the temple. There are so many things to see at the temple, such as the Yakushi-sanzon (three deities of the Buddha) that cure diseases, the statue of the Holy Avalokitesvara (the Goddess of Mercy) and the powerful Twelve Divine Generals. These can be seen at 0:40 in the video. The Festival at Kakurin Temple Source :Kakurin Temple Temple Official Twitter The temple is known for its Oni-oi ceremony. This can be seen at 1:30 in the video. After red oni and blue oni get violent in the crowds, they are exorcised by the Buddha. This is an event at Kakurin Temple, that has continued since the Heian period (794-1185). During the Tanabata Festival in July, the temple grounds are opened to the public free of charge from 5pm and strips of paper are hung on bamboo branches to make wishes. Summary of Kakurin Temple Temple Source :Kakogawa Tourism Association Kakurin Temple is a great place to get a closer look at Japanese culture. You can get a sense of history at Kakurin-ji Treasure Museum, which is shown at 1:11 in the video. Also, Kakogawa, where Kakurin Temple is located, is another sightseeing spot where you can experience the "real Japan." The nostalgic station buildings and shopping streets are fun to walk through, and there is also excellent access to Akashi and Himeji. The most famous and the closest sightseeing spot is Himeji Castle, which is shown from 0:02 in the video. Be sure to try the "Katsumeshi," a combination of pork cutlet, rice and cabbage, when you visit Kakogawa. We hope this video gave you a taste of the wonderful, traditional Japanese scenery of Kakurin Temple Temple and made you more interested in Kakogawa City. ◆Kakurin Temple Information◆ 【Address】424 Kakogawacho, Kakogawa City, Hyogo Prefecture 675-0031 【Access】8 minutes by bus or 25 minutes on foot from JR Kakogawa Station 【Hours】9:00～16:30 【Admission fee】Adult 500 yen (as of July 2020) 【Parking】There is a parking lot 【Telephone】079-454-7053 【Official Website】Kakogawa City, Hyogo City Hall Website http://www.city.kakogawa.lg.jp/

大阪府羽曳野市の魅力を紹介した動画について こちらの動画は「羽曳野市 公式YouTubeチャンネル」が公開した「Osaka：Half a day Spent in Habikino City」です。 大阪府羽曳野市には大黒寺や誉田八幡宮などの観光スポットが様々あります。 自転車を使えば、わずか半日程度で、大阪府羽曳野市の観光を満喫できます。 大阪府羽曳野市とは 大阪府羽曳野市は大阪市の南東部に位置しています。 大阪府羽曳野市を訪れるには新幹線で新大阪駅よりバスや電車などで向かうか、伊丹空港から大阪市内へ向かい、その後にバスや電車で向かうことになります。 大阪と言えばグルメランキングでたこ焼きやお好み焼き、串カツなどのグルメは有名。 そして大阪府羽曳野市周辺はたこ焼きやお好み焼き以外に焼き鳥やステーキなどを堪能できる店が多くあります。 大阪府羽曳野市が誇る特産品について 明治時代に大阪府羽曳野市一帯でぶどう栽培が盛んでした。 農業振興策の一環として、ぶどうを使ってのワイン造りが行われ、やがて大阪を代表するワインの生産地として有名になったのです。 ワインに適したぶどうの品種改良はこの頃から行われていたのです。 またワイン以外にも和菓子がおいしいことで評判なのが大阪府羽曳野市の特徴でもあります。 大阪府羽曳野市の名所及び世界文化遺産登録された古墳について 動画の1：50より紹介されている大阪府羽曳野市にある古墳は古市古墳群(遺跡古市古墳群)に含まれており、2019年7月6日の第43回世界遺産委員会にて世界文化遺産登録が決定しました。 これを受けて、古墳に関する観光ツアーが増加傾向にあります。 また翠鳥園遺跡公園には、旧石器時代の跡があり、旧石器人のアトリエもあります。 考古学に興味がある方は外せない観光スポットと言えるでしょう。 大阪府羽曳野市内のお寺や神社を自転車で巡ってみよう 大阪府羽曳野市内には多数のお寺や神社が点在していており、誉田八幡宮という神社から野中寺・法泉寺・大黒寺・西琳寺などを大阪府羽曳野市観光で外せないお寺がたくさんあります。 大阪府羽曳野市紹介まとめ 人気の観光スポットが盛りだくさんの大阪府羽曳野市。 この動画をご覧になるときっと大阪府羽曳野市に実際に訪れてみたいと思うはずです。

Introducing the Kyoto Kameoka / Arashiyama Hozugawa River Boat Ride! This video, titled “Beautiful Kyoto: Hozugawa River Boat Ride (Hozugawa Kudari) [4K],” is an introductory video about the Kyoto Kameoka / Arashiyama Hozugawa River Boat Ride, created by Discover Kyoto. Many people go sightseeing in Kyoto to see the rich history and culture and to experience the Japanese atmosphere. If you want to truly enjoy the nature of the surrounding area, we recommend trying the Hozugawa River Boat Ride in Arashiyama! But first, sit back, relax, and enjoy the Kyoto Kameoka / Arashiyama Hozugawa River Boat Ride. The Kyoto Kameoka / Arashiyama Hozugawa River Boat Ride Photo：Boatman going down Hozu River The Sagano (嵯峨野, Sagano) / Arashiyama area is one of the most popular tourist sights in Kyoto. On the scenic Hozu River that flows through Arashiyama, you can experience an amazing boat ride. The Kyoto Kameoka / Arashiyama Hozugawa River Boat Ride started about 400 years ago, when the waterway was made by cutting down the valley of the Hozu River, to transport supplies from Tanba (丹波, Tanba) to Kyoto. In Saga Arashiyama, near the end of the Kyoto Kameoka/Arashiyama Hozugawa River Boat Ride, lays Daihikaku Senkouji Temple, which was built to mourn for the spirits of victims of the excavation work at the time. The Kyoto Kameoka / Arashiyama Hozugawa River Boat Ride starts from the Shin-Hozu Ohashi Bridge area in Kameoka City (亀岡市, Kameoka-shi). The journey is about 16 km long and lasts until the Arashiyama wharf shown in 2:12 in the video. The boat does not have an engine. Instead, each boatman uses a single rod instead of an oar to navigate the river with ease. For your own safety, passengers are required to wear life jackets when boarding. Please note that there is no restroom on the boat. The Beauty of the Kyoto Kameoka / Arashiyama Hozugawa River Boat Ride! Photo：The Sagano Romantic Train There are scenic spots, such as the suspension bridge at Hozukyo and the Red Rocks of Ose that are in the middle of the Kyoto Kameoka / Arashiyama Hozugawa River Boat Ride. These are great for Instagram, so get your cameras ready! Be sure to take a photo of the amazing sightseeing train "The Sagano Romantic Train," shown at 1:18 in the video. It's a good idea to have a blanket or something to protect you from the splashing of waves in areas with rapids such as Koyayu Falls. We also recommend trying some oden that's made and can be purchased on the boat; This can be seen at 1:48 in the video. Tips to Enjoy Your Boat Ride! Photo：Oi River and Houseboat in Arashiyama, Kyoto To fully enjoy the scenery of Kyoto Arashiyama, purchase a set ticket that includes The Sagano Romantic Train and the Kyoto Kameoka / Arashiyama Hozugawa River Boat Ride. It's also convenient to use the ticket that includes both the Keihan-Kyoto Bus and the Kyoto Kameoka / Arashiyama Hozugawa River Boat Ride. There are some package tours and plans for hotels that come with the Kyoto Kameoka / Arashiyama Hozugawa River Boat Ride as well. You can also experience rafting in the Hozu River valley. Taking a horse-drawn carriage to get to the boarding area for the Kyoto Kameoka / Arashiyama Hozugawa River Boat Ride will make for an unforgettable experience. Summery of the Kyoto Kameoka / Arashiyama Hozugawa River Boat Ride! This video introduces the Kyoto Kameoka / Arashiyama Hozugawa River Boat Ride amongst the beautiful autumn leaves. In spring, you can enjoy a boat trip surrounded by beautiful cherry blossoms, and in summer, you can enjoy cooling off in a yukata. The Kyoto Kameoka / Arashiyama Hozugawa River Boat Ride uses a tarp to shelter passengers on rainy days, but we recommend checking the weather in advance as trips may be canceled due to inclement weather. Also, please make sure you make a reservation in advance as it an be crowded during cherry blossom season and during the changing of the leaves in the fall. Every October, the “Hozu Fire Festival,” an annual festival of "Ukeda Shrine" and "Hachimangu Shrine," is held. At this festival, you can see the Kyoto Kameoka / Arashiyama Hozugawa River Boat Ride entering the valley. We recommend going on the river boat ride when this event is taking place. If you want to make the most of your visit to Kyoto, take a thrilling boat ride down the Hozu River at Kameoka / Arashiyama in Kyoto. ◆Kyoto Kameoka/ Arashiyama Hozugawa River Boat Ride (Hozugawa Kudari◆ 【Duration】About 90 minutes 【Fare】Adult 4,100 JPY、 Child 2,700 JPY (Group Discount and Charter Available) *As of October, 2019. 【Access】8 minutes on foot from JR Kameoka Station, 15 minutes by Bus from The Sagano Romantic Train Kameoka station. 【Parking】Available (About 80 spots) 【Official Website】Welcome to the official website for the Hozugawa River Boat Ride. (Hozugawa Yusen Sightseeing Boat Association) https://www.hozugawakudari.jp/en 【Official Website】The official website of municipal office. Kameoka City, Kyoto https://www.city.kameoka.kyoto.jp/foreign/english/index.html

The Traditional Ako Lion Dance! This video, produced by "Ako Channel - The Official Video Channel of Ako City," is an official PR video titled, "Ako Lion Dance - Western Nitta Lion Dance Preservation Society" (赤穂の獅子舞「新田西部獅子舞保存会」). There are various regional events and festivals in autumn every year in Ako, Hyogo in Japan's Kansai Region. The Ako Lion Dance, performed by the members of the Western Nitta Lion Dance Preservation Society (新田西部獅子舞保存会), is especially popular as it is vigorous and has a long history in the area. The Ako Lion Dance parades through the approaches to shrines and temples. Take in the traditional Japanese atmosphere through the video, which shows the lion dance, a traditional cultural event in Ako in the fall. Don't Miss the Dynamic Movement of the Ako Lion Dance! Source :YouTube screenshot The Autumn Festival of Hiyoshi Shrine in Nitta District is held annually in October in Ako City, Hyogo Prefecture. During this lively festival, the Ako Lion Dance, performed by the Western Nitta Lion Dance Preservation Society, parades throughout the city. The festival begins with the "welcome of the gods"(0:19). A mischievous wild lion is skillfully led by a Tengu, a sort of Japanese goblin often found in folk tales. At 0:41, after “the purification of the lion head and Tengu mask” takes place, it's time to leave for "Hanamai," which parades through the city of Ako (0:53). "Hanamai" continues to visit over 200 places while performing to the sound of the drum. The lion dance at Hiyoshi Shrine is performed by Western Nitta District and Nitta Village alternately each year. The one seen in the video is performed by Western Nitta District. The highlight of the festival is "dochu mai" (1:58); while the rituals are being performed at Hiyoshi Shrine, the lion dance troupe takes its time to move along the approach to the shrine. After the ritual is over, they run up to the worship hall and the dedication dance begins. The Ako Lion Dance is descended from Ako Hachiman Shrine in Ozaki Districtand is characterized by slow movements during "dochu mai" and intense movements during the dedication dance at the main shrine. The Western Nitta Lion Dance Preservation Society performs a dance with a skit called "Niwaka."(2:55). So Much to See and Do at the Ako Autumn Festival! Source :YouTube screenshot In addition to the lion dance dedication by the Western Nitta Lion Dance Preservation Society, various events are held in Ako, such as an exorcism ritual and a children's mikoshi (portable shrine). The Western Nitta Lion Dance Preservation Society is not the only performer of Ako Lion Dance. There are many other organizations, such as Kamihamaichi and the Kizu Lion Preservation Society, that performs the dance as well. The lion dance of the Kamihamaichi Lion Preservation Society, known for its Hanamai and group dances, and the lion dance of the Kizu Lion Dance Preservation Society, which prays for purification and a good harvest, are also worth seeing. During the Autumn Festival in Ako, there are many stalls along the streets of shrines and temples. One of the ways to enjoy Ako's Autumn Festival is to eat local Japanese food at the stalls. Summary of the Ako Lion Dance The Ako Lion Dance is an important traditional ritual, and the Western Nitta Lion Dance Preservation Society has long been honing their skills to preserve the culture. Succession of traditional culture is a significant theme of traditional Japanese festivals. Visit the Ako Autumn Festival and experience Japanese culture through vigorous lion dances! 【Official Website】Ako Tourism - FEEL AKO TIME https://ako-kankou.jp/en/

Introducing Tajima in Hyogo Prefecture This aerial video, titled “Tajima Sightseeing Promotion Aerial Walk- Tajima Sky Road（但馬観光プロモーション空中散歩～但馬空ノ道～）” was created by “e Video production.com.” There are a lot of tourist attractions where you can enjoy the beautiful landscape of Japan in the Hyogo area. Let's take a look at some of the recommended locations, activities, and food! This video is taken by drone, making it feel as if a stork is introducing Tajima. We hope you enjoy it! Refreshing Tourist Destinations in Tajima ©rikky_photography Modifying The most famous spot in the Tajima are is without a doubt the Takeda Castle Ruins (竹田城,Takedajou), located in Asago city. The castle is called "The Castle in the Sky" and many people come here to see fantastical scenery. The beautiful scenery is shown at the beginning of the video. We recommend stopping by Mikobata Senkoujo in Asago city. Amarube Viaduct (余部橋脚, Amarubekyoukyaku) “Sora-no-Eki” was built in the Meiji era (1868-1912) and it was used as a JR Sanin Main Line train station for about a century. Looking at the Sea of Japan from the Amarube Viaduct makes for a refreshing experience. Tourist Attractions in Tajima Photo：Stork Yabu city in Hyogo prefecture was selected as a National Strategic Special Zone, and is a center for agricultural reform. There are many rice paddies in the Tajima area, such as Bekku in Yabu city; the natural scenery here is breathtaking. In the spring, you can enjoy cherry blossom at Tarumi-no-Ozakura and the Tajima tulip festival. In fall, the leaves of the enkianthus perulati of Ankoku Temple (安国寺, Ankokuji) change to a deep red. In winter, you can enjoy winter sports in Kannabe. There are other popular tourist destinations, such as Hyogo Park of the Oriental White Stork, which reintroduces stork to the area, and Kamiyama Plateau, where you can enjoy outdoor leisure activities. The beautiful and seasonal views of tourist attractions in the Tajima area is introduced from 3:19 in the video. Enjoy the Geopark, and the Local Cuisine of Tajima! The Japan Sea coast in Hyogo prefecture is listed as a Global Geopark, and the natural scenery of the mountains and of the sea is truly a sight to behold. We highly recommend sea kayaking at Sanin Geopark. We recommend trying Tajima beef and queen crab, both of which are raised free range. These foods can be seen at 4:34 in the video. Izushi city is called " The Little Kyoto of Tajima." There is a local specialty here called Izushi Sara Soba, served in small portions on tiny dishes. Relaxing in Tajima Photo：Kinosaki Onsen There are places where you can relax in the Tajima area, such as Kinosaki Onsen. This hot spring is 1,300 years old, and you can enjoy a hot spring tour while wearing a yukata. Staying at a hotel at Yumura Onsen, a well-kept-secret in the Tajima area, and enjoying a relaxing overnight stay, is another great way to enjoy your trip. Summary of Tajima There are lot of hidden gems in the Tajima area, north of Hyogo prefecture. The 5-minute-long video is full of the charm of the Tajima area. Be sure to check it out! Enjoy delicious food and beautiful natural scenery in Tajima. Are you packing your bags yet? 【Official website】Kobe City Hall https://web.pref.hyogo.lg.jp/fl/index.html

The Arashiyama Bamboo Forest in Arashiyama, Kyoto! This video is titled "Arashiyama Bamboo Forest｜the Voices of the Wind and Fresh Greenery Dancing Towards the Heavens｜Kyoto・Arashiyama. (Arashiyama Bamboo Forest Kyoto Japan) Sagano｜Healing Landscape, Healing, a Sketch of Sounds #16 / Ryuju." It introduces the Arashiyama Bamboo Forest in Sagano (嵯峨野, Sagano), Arashiyama, in Kyoto City (京都市, Kyoto-Shi), Kyoto (京都府,Kyoto-Fu), in the Kansai region (関西地方, Kansai-Chiho) of Japan. The Arashiyama Bamboo Forest is a path from Okochi Sanso Villa in Sagano (嵯峨野, Sagano), in the Ukyo-Ward (右京区, Ukyo-Ku) of Kyoto, to Nonomiya Shrine. As you can see from 0:18 in the video, the Arashiyama Bamboo Forest is roughly 400 meters long, and this refined site is one of the most famous tourist destinations in Arashiyama, Kyoto. You can see the fresh greenery of the bamboo forest, along with soothing music. It's also called "Bamboo Grove." Togetsukyo-Bridge and Katsura River (桂川, Katsura-Gawa) are also within walking distance of the forest. Events at the Arashiyama Bamboo Forest Photo：Kyoto・Arashiyama Hanatouro Every winter at the Arashiyama Bamboo Forest, a special night-time illumination event called "Kyoto Arashiyama Hanatouro" is held. Here, you can enjoy a beautiful night view of the Bamboo Forest lit up at night. For access to the Arashiyama Bamboo Forest, we recommend the route from Tenryuji Temple to the North Gate where Nomiya Shrine is located. Since there is no parking, we recommend going by train. The Sagano Romantic Train Photo：Sagano Romantic Train The Sagano Romantic Train is a sightseeing train in Arashiyama, which was reconstructed from a defunct railroad and was reborn as a new tourist attraction in the area. It runs along the Hozu River (保津川, Hozu-Gawa) from "Torokko Kameoka Station," which is close to Umahori Station on the JR West San'in Main Line, to "Torokko Saga Station via Torokko Arashiyama Station where the bamboo forest is located. The train operates from 9:00 A.M. Check the official Sagano Scenic Railway website for a detailed schedule. Dining in Arashiyama, Kyoto Photo：Arashiyama, Kyoto・Croquette There are many restaurants and places to grab lunch in Arashiyama. We'll introduce a few below. The most popular and classic food are the croquettes from Nakamuraya Shop. The croquettes from Shop Arashiyama Tanaka are also reasonably priced and we recommend them as well. Yuba-suki croquettes are also available at Yoshiya Arashiyama Honten. You won't be able to find them anywhere else. Saga Tofu Ine is a restaurant offering tofu dishes, yuba soup, and yuba donuts. As for dessert, Shinpachi Chaya sells authentic gelato, which won third place in the Gelato World Tour. Besides these, there are a number of delicious treats perfect for your Instagram, and as gifts. For example, the upside-down soft serve ice cream from Kyozuan! Sightseeing in the Arashiyama Area Photo：Rickshaw In addition to the Arashiyama Bamboo Forest, there are many more sightseeing spots in Arashiyama as well. The most famous is Arashiyama Onsen (Hot spring). There is also a footbath near Arashiyama Station, so you can soak your legs and feet in a shallow hot spring bath to rid yourself of the fatigue from your travels. Another activity you can enjoy in Arashiyama is dressing up as a maiko in kimono and going sightseeing! You can dress up as a maiko for 2 hours and experience what Arashiyama was like in the Heian Period (794-1185 AD). The rickshawsin Arashiyama can also take you around the surrounding area, to places such as Togetsukyo-Bridge and Okochi Sanso Villa. The god of marriage and childbirth is enshrined at Nomiya Shrine, and there is also a power spot called Okameishi (Turtle Rock). It is said that if you rub this turtle-shaped stone while praying, your wish will be granted within a year. We also recommend checking out other tourist sites, such as the Kimono Forest, Daikakuji Temple, the "Rinsen Style Garden" (a strolling garden incorporating ponds and hills), Jojakkoji Temple, and Hozugawa River Boat Ride. Summary of the Arashiyama Bamboo Grove Photo：Arashiyama, Kyoto・Bamboo Grove Did you enjoy reading about the Arashiyama Bamboo Grove and other surround points of interest? Aside from the beautiful scenery of the bamboo grove, there are many other sightseeing spots in Arashiyama. Be sure to bring a map when you come and visit the beautiful bamboo groves of Kyoto and experience the history of Japan! 【Tripadvisor】Arashiyama Bamboo Forest https://www.tripadvisor.jp/Attraction_Review-g298564-d1497822-Reviews-Bamboo_Forest_Street-Kyoto_Kyoto_Prefecture_Kinki.html

A Closer Look at Kyoto's Kifune Shrine This video, titled "Kifune Shrine in Early Summer / Kifune Jinja / KyotoiitokoVideo" (初夏の貴船神社 / Kifune Jinja / 京都いいとこ動画) was created by "KyotoiitokoVideo." It's an introductory video featuring Kifune Shrine, located in Kyoto city, Kyoto prefecture (京都府京都市). Many people visit Kifune Shrine in search of luck in marriage and it is also known as a famous power spot. In this article we'll introduce, alongside the video, one of the top sightseeing spots in Kyoto: Kifune Shrine. The History and Origin of Kifune Shrine Photo：The main shrine of Kifune Shrine, Kyoto Kifune shrine in Kyoto, a shrine dedicated to the god Takaokami (高霞神), is the head shrine of all of the Kifune shrines in Japan, of which there are approximately 450 in total. It is listed in the Engi Shiki and is considered one of the top 22 most important Shinto shrines in Japan. Kifune shrine is an ancient shrine featured in the oldest records of Japan, such as the Kojiki (古事記, "Records of Ancient Matters") and the Nihon-shoki (日本書紀, "The Chronicles of Japan"). Things to Do at Kifune Shrine Photo：Water divination at Kifune Shrine Beyond the stone staircase that climbs from Kibune River lies the main building of Kifune shrine as well as other smaller buildings where you can purchase goshuin seal stamps or good luck charms called "o-mamori." Here you can try drawing one of the popular water divination slips known as "mizuuranai-mikuji" (水占みくじ). Two horse statues can be found on the grounds of Kifune shrine and it is thought that this was the birth place of the Ema plaques (絵馬). 700 meters upstream of Omoi River (思ひ川) you'll find the rear shrine, and if you make it here you'll have completed "sanshameguri" (三社巡り), which means that you've visited all three areas of the shrine. It is said that a sacred dragon's cave lies within the rear shrine. You can see the rear shrine from 1:03 in the video. Several events are held at Kifune shrine each year, such as the Kifune festival (貴船まつり), Nagoshi no Oharae (夏越の大祓式), Kifune water festival (貴船の水まつり) and the Tanabata festival "Sasa no Sekku" (笹の節供) which is famous for its beautiful bamboo grass decorations. On top of Kifune Shrine's beautiful summer scenery, you can also enjoy the amazing cherry blossom viewing spots in spring and stunning natural scenery in fall in the surrounding area. The area is often lit up in the evening, attracting lots of visitors! A special prayer is held on the first "day of the ox" of every month. Sightseeing and Restaurants in the Surrounding Area Photo：Kawadoko in Kibune, Kyoto Make sure to stop by a Kawadoko (川床) on your trip to Kibune! Kawadoko means "streambed" in Japanese, but it refers to the raised platforms that are constructed over the streambeds in summer to keep visitors cool. Stopping at Kawadoko for lunch is guaranteed to make for an unforgettable experience! We highly recommend the following restaurants which are located in the surrounding area: Kuramadera (鞍馬寺), Hyoue café(兵衛カフェ), Ryouri Ryokan Kibune's Ugenta (右源太) and Sagenta (左源太), Kifune Kurabu (貴船倶楽部) and Toriyachaya (鳥屋茶屋). Kifune Shrine Introductory Video Summary Photo：Kifune Shrine, Kyoto The Kibune area, which boasts a cooler temperature than Kyoto basin (京都盆地), is the perfect place to beat the summer heat! Let the running water of the Kifune river, the source of both the Yodo River (淀川) and Kamo River (鴨川), reinvigorate your body on a hot summer's day! Make sure to take lots of photos of the stunning natural scenery at Kifune Shrine so you can share them on SNS later! ◆Kifune Shrine Facility Information◆ 【Address】180 Kuramakibunecho, Sakyo Ward, Kyoto, 601-1112 (〒601-1112 京都府京都市左京区鞍馬貴船町180) 【Access】From Eizan Electric Railway Kibuneguchi Station, take the Kyoto Bus and get off at Kibune Station. From there it's 5 minutes on foot. 【Admission Fee】Entry is free of charge, Mizuuranai-mikuji: 200 yen for 1 fortune, sacred shrine water: 500 yen for 1 container 【Hours】6:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m. 【Closures】Open year-round 【Parking】Available (25 spaces, 500 yen for 2 hours) 【Phone】075-741-2016 【Tripadvisor】Kifune Shrine https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g298564-d1386169-Reviews-Kifune_Shrine-Kyoto_Kyoto_Prefecture_Kinki.html

Introducing Yuzen Dyeing, a Traditional Japanese Craft This video, titled "Ikeuchi Yuzen - Forms of Yuzen Dyeing, an Art That Gives Color To the Modern World / IKEUCHI YUZEN" (池内友禅～現代を花やかに彩る友禅染のかたち～), was released by "Yuzen Ikeuchi." It introduces the manufacturing process of Yuzen Ikeuchi, a type of Yuzen dyeing. Yuzen dyeing, which is used for Japanese kimono, is a traditional craft that represents the Genroku culture that blossomed in Kyoto and Osaka in the middle of the Edo Period. The name "Yuzen" comes from Miyazaki Yuzen, a fan painter who invented Yuzen dyeing during the Edo Period. A Look at Ikeuchi Yuzen, a Type of Yuzen Dyeing Introduced in the Video Source :YouTube screenshot Yuzen Ikeuchi is a Yuzen dyeing workshop in Arashiyama, Kyoto. In the old-fashioned workshop, various works such as homongi (One of the types of Japanese women's kimono), furisode, and kimono accessories are made. In his work, Yuzen dyeing artist Masahiro Ikeuchi, introduced from 0:34 in the video, tries to express the magnificence of humanity while being inspired by the splendor of nature in Japan. The Yuzen Dyeing Techniques Introduced in the Video Photo：Kyoto Hand-Drawn Yuzen A major feature of yuzen dyeing, a traditional Japanese craft, is the delicacy of the patterns. Yuzen dyeing is all hand-dyed and uses a starchy resist dye. In the past, yuzen involved washing the fabric in the river after it was dyed. There are various types of Yuzen dyeing, such as Kyo Yuzen, Kaga Yuzen, and Tokyo Yuzen. Each dyeing technique is different, and you can enjoy the different patterns of each style. A Look at the Yuzen Dyeing Introduced in the Video Source :YouTube screenshot So how is Yuzen dyeing done? Let's take a look at the main steps in the dyeing process. 1. Zuanzukuri (図案作り): Drawing a design 2. Aobana Utsushi (青花写し): Copying the design onto the fabric 3. Itomenori-oki (糸目糊置き): The process of putting anti-dye paste around the patterns to be dyed. 4. Ji-ire (地入れ): Stretching the fabric to prevent unevenness in color that may occur later. 5. Yuzen-sashi (友禅挿し): After the fabric is stretched, the patterns are filled in with a brush. 6. Noribuse / Roubuse (糊伏せ / ロウ伏せ): The dyed patterns are covered with rice glue or wax to prevent the background color from seeping into them. 7. Hikizome (引き染め): Hikizome is the process of dyeing the background color of the fabric with a brush. 8. Mushi (蒸し): Mushi is a process of fixing the dye to the fabric using steam power. 9. Mizumoto (水元): Mizumoto is the process of rinsing off excess dyes and glues left on the fabric from the previous processes with water. 10. Yunoshi (湯のし): Yunoshi is a finishing process, in which steam is applied to the shrunken or distorted fabric in order to remove wrinkles and align its length and width. 11. Some-agari (染め上がり): After the mushi, mizumoto, and yunoshi steps are completed and the glue and wax are removed, the lines of the threads appear clearly and the dyed patterns emerge vividly. 12. Shiage / Kinkako / Shishu (仕上げ / 金加工 / 刺繍): The process of decorating the dyed fabric with gold leaf and embroidery to make it gorgeous. 13. Shitate / Karieba (仕立て / 仮絵羽): Karieba is the process of sewing a single, fully processed piece of cloth into the shape of a kimono. The kimono made through these processes are incredibly beautiful. In the video, you can see a woman wearing a Yuzen-dyed kimono walking through the streets of Kyoto. Summary of Yuzen Dyeing, a Traditional Craft of Kyoto Photo：Kyoto hand-dyed Yuzen Yuzen dyeing is done with the precise hand-dyeing techniques shown in the video. The beautiful patterns have fascinated people for many years. On top of the traditional patterns, there are also a number of modern pieces of Yuzen dyeing, so you're sure to find one you like!

This video, titled "名物ロンドン焼き！作り方をじっくり眺めてみた！カステラ 京都グルメ The Amazing London-Yaki (Castelle) Machine at Kyoto Japan!," was released by "DELI BALI." London-Yaki is one of the most popular Kyoto gourmet dishes among both tourists and young locals alike. London-ya, featured in this video, is located near the entrance to Shinkyogoku, a popular shopping street for young people. The unique feature of London-ya is that you can watch from outside as the london-yaki (small castella filled with white bean paste) are made, one after another. You can watch as the batter is poured into the round molds and baked. On top of being a treat to watch, they're also a treat to eat, and they taste delicious! If you're in the Shinkyogoku area of Kyoto and want to enjoy window shopping and eating around, be sure to stop by London-ya!

Hachiman-bori Canal and Beautiful Nighttime Cherry Blossoms: Video Introduction This video, titled "Hachiman-bori Canal in SHIGA, JAPAN / Viewing Cherry Blossoms at Night" (【滋賀／観光地】八幡堀夜桜／近江八幡幻想の夜 - Hachiman-bori Canal in SHIGA, JAPAN / Viewing cherry blossoms at night -), was uploaded by "channel WASABI." Enjoy the beautiful nighttime cherry blossoms of Hachiman-bori Canal, a cherry blossom spot in Omihachiman, one of the leading tourist attractions in Shiga Prefecture, in the video. Hachiman-bori Canal, a Tourist Attraction in Omihachiman Photo：Omihachiman, Shiga Omihachiman is one of the most famous tourist spots in Japan's Kansai region and Shiga Prefecture, and one of the most popular attractions in Omihachiman is the famous Hachiman-bori Canal. The Hachiman-bori Canal dates back to Japan's Warring States Period (1467-1615 AD) and the Azuchi-Momoyama period (1573-1598 AD), when Toyotomi Hideyoshi's nephew, Toyotomi Hidetsugu, built a castle and established a town on Mt. Hachiman. The Hachiman-bori Canal is connected to Lake Biwa, and a "rakuichi-rakuza" (free markets and open guilds) system was established to accommodate the merchants who passed through the canal. The castle town was the birthplace of the Omi merchants and played a role in the development of the town as a result of their efforts to make it prosperous. Hachiman-bori Canal and Beautiful Cherry Blossoms: A Spectacular Sightseeing Location! Photo：The Hachiman-bori Canal, spring, Shiga Omihachiman is famous as a village of water, selected as one of the Eight Views of Lake Biwa. One of the most popular sightseeing tours in Omihachiman is the Hachiman-bori Canal Tour. The Hachiman-bori Canal Tour is a popular way to view the cherry blossoms while enjoying a leisurely ride on a traditional Japanese houseboat. Visitors can also enjoy the seasonal scenery of willows in summer, autumn leaves in fall, and gentle snow in winter, while viewing merchants' mansions reminiscent of days past. In addition to touring around Hachiman-bori Canal, we also recommend taking a leisurely stroll through the historical streets. Omihachiman - A Town of Historic Merchant Houses and Historical Dramas Photo：The townscape of Omihachiman Omihachiman is not only famous as a sightseeing spot, but it's also known as one of Japan's most famous locations for filming historical dramas. The merchants' houses and elegant townscape, which still retain their historical atmosphere, are the perfect locations for historical dramas. In particular, it became famous as a location for the Rurouni Kenshin movie, and the Hachiman-bori Canal has become popular not only among fans, but also among many others as a place for pilgrimages. Sightseeing and Recommendations Around Hachiman-bori Canal Photo：The Kawara Museum In the vicinity of the Hachiman-bori Canal, there's the Kawara Museum, a unique exhibition hall in Japan specializing in roof tiles, and the Honganji Hachiman Betsuin Temple (本願寺八幡別院), the largest temple in the city, where visitors can experience the history of Omihachiman. There are also cafes and restaurants where you can stop by during a stroll and enjoy lunch. For example, there's a restaurant called "Tiffany" where you can enjoy famous Omi Beef dishes, or "Kihei" where you can sample the local cuisine of Omihachiman. When it comes to cafes in Omihachiman, Taneya/Club Harie is a place you have to check out. Its most popular items are Japanese sweets and baumkuchen. When visiting the Hachiman-bori Canal area for sightseeing, we recommend that you pick out the spots you want to visit in advance, and if you're coming by car, look up the location of parking lots in advance to ensure a smooth visit. Summary of Beautiful Cherry Blossoms at Hachiman-bori Canal Omihachiman is so beautiful that it has been selected as one of the Eight Views of Lake Biwa, delighting the eyes of many people. The Hachiman-bori Canal tour introduced in the video can be enjoyed together with a canal tour of the town. Both are incredibly attractive. Since there's a difference in the time required, if you have time to relax, the canal tour is definitely something to try. During Hachimanbori Matsuri (Hachiman-bori Canal Festival), the streets, as well as bamboo floats along the Hachiman-bori Canal are filled with lights. The lights create a more elegant and emotional atmosphere, making it great for taking Instagram photos. From the top of Mt. Hachiman, visitors can enjoy a breathtaking night view of Omihachiman combined with the lights along the walking path. The Hachiman-bori Canal is a place with an amazing historical atmosphere that has been used as a location for historical dramas. Be sure to stop by when you visit Shiga Prefecture. 【TripAdvisor】Hachiman-bori Canal https://www.tripadvisor.jp/Attraction_Review-g1023564-d1424429-Reviews-Hachiman_bori-Omihachiman_Shiga_Prefecture_Kinki.html

Fox-Shaped Rice Crackers at Fushimi Inari Shrine! This video, titled “Kyoto KITUNE SENBEI Japanese Traditional Sweet Japanese Street Food Japan,” was released by “Food Spirit.” It shows kitsune senbei (fox-shaped rice crackers), a traditional confectionary of Kyoto, being sold. There are a number of popular stores near Fushimi Inari Shrine in Fushimi Ward, Kyoto City. Among them, the famous Kitsune Senbei from Inariya, introduced in the video, are ideal for both eating as a snack and taking home as a souvenir. In the video, you can see how these fox-shaped rice crackers are made. Check it out! A Closer Look at Kyoto’s Fox-Shaped Rice Crackers Source :YouTube screenshot The kitsune senbei (狐, Kitsune - "Fox"; 煎餅, Senbei - "Rice Crackers") from Inariya are, as the name suggests, rice crackers shaped like fox masks. There are many stone statues of foxes at Fushimi Inari Shrine, and these cute fox-shaped rice crackers are adorable souvenirs reminiscent of these. The origins of these fox-shaped rice crackers can be traced back to the time when red miso rice crackers baked in Gifu were changed to Kyoto-style white miso. Later, Inariya invented and popularized Kitsune Senbei (きつね煎餅), Tsujiura Senbei (辻占煎餅, Fortune crackers), Otafuku Senbei (お多福煎餅), and other festive rice crackers unique to Fushimi Inari Shrine. Try the Tasty, Fox-Shaped Rice Crackers From Inariya! Source :YouTube screenshot These Kitsune senbei rice crackers are characterized by the fact that they are carefully hand-baked, one sheet at a time, using traditional ingredients. The dough is made by mixing white miso, sesame seeds, and sugar with flour and then baking the rice crackers until they’ve got an addictive, crispy and crunchy texture. You can see the deliciously baked Kitsune Senbei from 2:07 in the video. Kitsune Senbei have won the Kyoto Prefecture Outstanding Craftsmanship Award, as well as the Gold Medal and the Honorary President's Award at the National Confectionary Exposition. The packaging of Inariya's Kitsune Senbei rick crackers is also worth noting as it features impactful illustrations. Inariya's fortune crackers also include a fortune slip that can be exchanged for a souvenir! Chinese and English versions are also available, so foreign tourists can purchase them without having to worry about not understanding them. More About Fushimi Inari Shrine Photo：The romon gate of Fushimi Inari Shrine, Kyoto Prefecture Fushimi Inari Shrine is a popular spot that ranks first on the list of popular tourist attractions for inbound tourists to Japan. Fushimi Inari Shrine is the headquarters of more than 30,000 Inari shrines in Japan, and the shrine is dedicated to the god of good harvests, offering many benefits, such as prosperous business, etc. The shrine is also the site of seasonal events, such as the Hatsuuma Grand Festival "Fukumairi," as well as the fantastic Yoimiya and Motomiya Festivals, both of which feature lantern dedications. Summary of Kitsune Senbei, Kyoto’s Fox-Shaped Rice Crackers! Source :YouTube screenshot This video gives an introduction to how the popular snack/souvenir, Kitsune Senbei, are made, so be sure to check it out! Inariya's Kitsune Senbei rice crackers are not available for purchase online, but can be purchased at Kyoto Station as well as at stores near Fushimi Inari Shrine. We recommend stopping by Kyoto Station to purchase some as souvenirs! 【Yelp】Inariya https://www.yelp.com/biz/%E7%B7%8F%E6%9C%AC%E5%AE%B6-%E3%81%84%E3%81%AA%E3%82%8A%E3%82%84-%E4%BA%AC%E9%83%BD%E5%B8%82

Rape Blossoms at Awaji Hanasajiki, Awaji Island: Video Introduction This video, titled "Rape Blossoms in Full Bloom, 'Awaji Hanasajiki,' Awaji Island Hyogo (2022/3)" (『淡路島「あわじ花さじき」満開の菜の花 Rape blossoms in full bloom, Awaji Hanasajiki, Awaji Island Hyogo　(2022.3)』), was uploaded by "chuchikomo." Located on Awaji Island (淡路島, Awaji-shima), Hyogo Prefectural Park's Awaji Hanasajiki is a famed flower spot, befitting of the island of flowers. Hyogo Prefecture has been running the park since April, 1998. You can see the rape blossom meadow in full bloom in the video. Rape blossoms herald the arrival of spring in Japan, and the sight of them swaying in the wind makes it almost reminiscent of a friendly face saying hello. Take a visit with your special someone or family, and take some memorable photos together. It's a great spot for taking Instagram photos as well! Attractions of Awaji Hanasajiki, a Flower Park on Awaji Island Photo：Rape blossom fields at Awaji Hanasajiki, Awaji Island, Hyogo Prefecture Awaji Hanasajiki is known as a great place to see flowers, and is located at the highest point of Awaji Island's hilly north, at an elevation of between 235 and 298 meters. The plateau, which slopes gently toward the sea covers around 37 acres, or around the same area as four Koshien Stadiums (Japan's most famous baseball ground). Gaze out over Osaka Bay (大阪湾, osaka-wan) and the Akashi Strait (明石海峡, akashi kaikyo) with beautiful views of flower meadows. Awaji Hanasajiki has been christened as the ultimate place to enjoy gorgeous carpets of flowers. Experience relaxation and healing from the comfort of your own home with these beautiful blue skies and fields of flowers. The fact that there's no entry fee is another plus. There's even a parking lot with space for 200 cars, at the price of 200 yen for a full-sized vehicle. We recommend the vast observation desk; a wooden deck from which you can enjoy a 360-degree view of the surrounding area. What's more, you can see how far along the flowers have bloomed on the official website via a camera set up in Awaji Hanasajiki's café/restaurant "Galleri." Be sure to check it out before you visit! [Video] 2:18 - A Carpet of Yellow Rape Blossoms March: The Best Time to See Rape Blossoms at Awaji Hanasajiki Photo：Rape blossom fields at Awaji Hanasajiki, Awaji Island, Hyogo Prefecture The rape blossoms at Awaji Hanasajiki. a famous flower spot in Hyogo, Japan, can be enjoyed for a long period from winter to spring, between mid-January and late April. The reason behind this is a staggered planting regimen, which results in flowers appearing in turn, from early bloomers to late. When in season, the hilly flower meadows cover the area in a sea of yellow below the blue skies on a clear day. In 2023, the "Early Spring Rape Blossom Festival" (早春菜の花まつり, soshun nanohana matsuri) is being held from mid-January to early March, and boasts around 200,000 early-blooming rape blossoms. Furthermore, between mid-March and late April, the "Rape Blossom Festival" (菜の花まつり, nanohana matsuri) takes place, playing host to around 600,000 blooming rape blossoms. Spring at Awaji Hanasajiki – May is the Month for Poppies! Photo：Poppy fields at Awaji Hanasajiki, Awaji Island, Hyogo Prefecture May at Awaji Hanasajiki sees approximately 50,000 Iceland poppies in bloom. Colored in red, yellow, and orange, the beautiful, colorful flowers create a wonderful scene. The view of Awaji Island's blue skies, blue sea and verdant mountains visible from the vast poppy meadows will make you feel as though you're dreaming. Be sure not to miss the poppies, which can be enjoyed between late April and mid-May! Flowers to Enjoy in Each Season at Awaji Hanasajiki Photo：Cosmos at Awaji Hanasajiki, Awaji Island, Hyogo Prefecture Here, we'll list up what flowers bloom in each season. Take notes if you're planning a trip! 【Spring】 Between March and mid-April, visitors can enjoy the vast flower meadows filled with toadflax, Chinese violet cress, and rape blossoms. The chorus of bright yellows and purples heralds the coming of spring, and is sure to put you in a cheery mood. Additionally, from late April the Iceland poppies come into bloom, giving spring one extra layer of beauty. [Video] 2:27 - Cows Relaxing Behind the Rape Blossoms 【Summer】 From July to mid-August, sunflowers and spider flowers beautify the summer scenery. We hear that the spider flower meadows are a rare sight in western Japan. The spider flower looks almost like butterflies dancing in the wind, and are a big hit with visitors. Also, from August until the end of fall, mealy sage and scarlet sage bloom in profusion in a lustrous mix of blues and reds. 【Fall】 Between October and early November, the huge cosmos meadows create a melancholic mood. The cosmos come in pale and deep shades of pink, as well as yellow. You can get your fill off the fanciful sage flower meadows too, blooming in blue and red. 【Winter】 From mid-November to February, around 14,000 purple, red, and pink stocks bloom, announcing the arrival of winter. Winter's lucid air means that on a clear day, you can enjoy excellent views of the Hanshin area, too. Summary of Awaji Hanasajiki Awaji Hanasajiki, one of Awaji Island's best known free tourist attractions, is made up of flower meadows spreading across a vast plateau. If you're looking for other things to do on Awaji Island, you can check out Hyogo Prefectural Awaji Island Park (兵庫県立淡路島公園, hyogo kenritsu awaji-shima koen), featuring an observatory allowing for a boundless view of Akashi Kaikyo Bridge, and Awaji Island Akashi Kaikyo National Government Park (淡路島国営明石海峡公園, awaji-shima kokuei akashi kayo koen), with its tulip fields which rank among the best in Japan's Kansai region. We recommend visiting after 4 p.m. on holidays and during busy periods. Stay the night nearby with your family and get your fill of Awaji Island. We think you'll be able to make some great memories as a family and get some wonderful photos of the sky, sea, and flower meadows. 【Official Website】Hyogo Prefectural Park, Awaji Hanasajiki 【TripAdvisor】Awaji Hanasajiki

A Look at Kyoto and Its History This video, titled “The Night Scene of Kyoto (SONY a7S2 4K Pilotfly H2 Gimbal)” (京都の夜動画 - The Night Scene of Kyoto (SONY a7S2 4K Pilotfly H2 ジンバル)), was released by “video channel.” It showcases the scenery of Kyoto at night in 4K ultra-HD resolution. What does Kyoto, one of Japan's most popular tourist destinations, look like at night? Kyoto originally prospered as the capital of Japan from the Heian Period (794-1185 A.D.), with many shrines and temples, such as Fushimi Inari Shrine, Kiyomizudera Temple, and Kodaiji Temple, and Mt. Inari was a symbol of mountain worship. Kyoto is a city for adults where you can experience the flow of time differently from other big cities. Gion – A Beautiful Nightscape in Kyoto Photo：Gion, Kyoto There are many tourist attractions in Kyoto, but Gion is the place to be to see Kyoto at night. Gion is the name of the area in front of Yasaka Shrine, and it has developed into a historic red-light district. It is also famous as a nightlife district for adults, where tourists and business tycoons from Kyoto and abroad come to have fun at night. You can see geiko walking around the area at 1:14 in the video. Kyoto's Gion area alone is full of popular tourist attractions, but the slope that appears throughout the video is Nineizaka, the approach to Kiyomizudera Temple. There is a dangerous legend that if you fall on Nineizaka, you'll die within two years, so please be very careful when sightseeing! Another famous approach to Kiyomizudera Temple is Sanneizaka. The slope is lined with many stores, cafes, and restaurants, making it a great spot for eating, dates, and even going for a drive. Hanamikoji Street in Southern Gion, Kyoto Photo：Gion's Hanamikoji Street, Kyoto The main nighttime sightseeing spot in the Gion area where you're most likely to see geiko and maiko is the 1km-long Hanamikoji Street, located on the south side of Gion. Hanamikoji Street stretches from Sanjo Street to Kenninji Temple, centering on Shijo Street, which is bordered by Yasaka Shrine's Nishiromon Gate. Also along this street is the site of the annual "Miyako Odori," a dance festival where maiko and geiko compete in artistic competitions, and Tsudaro, a long-established restaurant with a reputation for its Kyoto-style cuisine. Fushimi Inari Shrine's Omokaruishi (Heavy or light stone): Will Your Wish Come True? Photo：The thousand torii gates of Fushimi Inari Shrine, Kyoto A tourist spot in Kyoto that is rapidly gaining popularity among foreigners is Fushimi Inari Shrine, famous for its shrine approach lined with vermilion torii gates. At the inner shrine, there is a stone called "Omokaruishi," and legend has it that if you lift it and it feels lighter than you expected, your wish will come true, but if it feels heavier than you expected, your wish is not yet ready to be fulfilled. Fushimi Inari is the head shrine of all the Inari shrines in Japan, and the shrine is dedicated to foxes as opposed to the usual komainu (guardian dogs). Shinbashi Street - The Best Place To Enjoy the Old-Fashioned District of Gion Photo：Gion's Shinbashi Street, Kyoto Shinbashi Street (Shinbashi-dori) is an area where old fashioned streets and lanterns still remain. This is the area that retains the strongest traces of Gion, which flourished as a red-light district during the Edo Period (1603-1868 A.D.), and is known as a good place for night sightseeing in Kyoto. This street is also known as a famous location for viewing cherry blossoms and attracts many tourists in the spring. Nothing can beat taking a midnight stroll through Kyoto under the illuminated cherry blossoms during the cherry blossom season. Summary of Kyoto’s Popular Sightseeing Locations Photo：Yasaka-no-To and Kyoto Tower, Kyoto In addition to the Gion area, there are many other tourist attractions in Kyoto. There's the famous Yasaka-no-To, a three-storied pagoda which is the symbol of Kyoto, Kyoto Tower, which offers a panoramic view of Kyoto from its observation deck, and Shogunzuka's Seiryuden Hall, a new landmark built in 2014 at the top of Higashiyama. One of the most popular power spots for finding love, especially among women, is "Ryu no Atago" (龍の愛宕池, Dragon Pond) located at Arashiyama Station off the Keifuku Dentetsu Arashiyama Line. To get here, you must pass through Kimono Forest, where 600 Kyo Yuzen pillars line the street. Kyoto is a beautiful tourist destination, and in order to protect the scenery of the city, there are rules and regulations that prohibit littering, eating, drinking, and smoking outside of designated areas, so please be sure to follow these rules and enjoy your time sightseeing in Kyoto at night! 【Tripadvisor】Kyoto’s Gion District https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g298564-d321451-Reviews-Gion-Kyoto_Kyoto_Prefecture_Kinki.html

Takeda Castle - A Castle in the Sky! The video introduced here is titled "Castle in the Sky｜An Aerial View of the Takeda Castle Ruins." It was produced by "e-picture production.com," and showcases beautiful images of Takeda castle in Hyogo prefecture taken by drone. Takeda Castle is located in Asago, Hyogo Prefecture, and is a famous tourist attraction known as the "Machu Picchu of Japan" and "Castle in the Sky." As you can see from 0:04 in the video, early in the morning, you can enjoy the fantastic scenery of the castle shrouded in mist. Tourists who come to visit the site cheer at and admire the spectacular view. About Takeda Castle - A Castle in the Sky Source :YouTube screenshot The Takeda Castle Ruins, a mountain castle located at the top of the 353.7-meter-tall Mt. Kojo to the west of Ritsunkyou, is a stone walled fortress with a central tower, with the inner and outer citadels, the outer section of the castle, and the southern outer citadel arranged in a renkaku style. You can see a full view of the Takeda Castle Ruins at 0:51 in the video. It is also called "Torafusu Castle" as it looks like a tiger waiting in ambush (虎, "tora" means tiger, and 伏す "fusu" means to wait in ambush). Takeda Castle is a national historic site, an Important Cultural Property of Japan, and one of the "Top 100 castles of Japan." In 2012, the castle was recognized as a sacred place for lovers because of its fantastic scenery, suitable for marriage proposals. In Japan, there is a ruin called Bungo Takeda Castle in Kyushu, Oita prefecture as well. The History of Takeda Castle - A Castle in the Sky Photo：Hyogo Prefecture・Takeda Castle Ruins It is said that Takeda Castle was built during the Muromachi period (1336 to 1573 AD) and the first castle owner was Otagakishi, but the history remains unclear to this day. The castle was the scene of many battles during the during the Warring States period (c. 1467 to 1615) and the Azuchi-Momoyama periods (1573 to 1598). Particularly famous are the Onin War, which started with the battle between Hosokawa Katsumoto and Yamana Sozen, and the Battle of Takeda Castle, in which Oda Nobunaga dispatched Hideyoshi Hashiba (Toyotomi Hideyoshi) to the area and later attacked Kozuki Castle and Tajima. Takeda Castle was later destroyed in the Battle of Sekigahara and was abandoned by the Edo Shogunate. Summary of Takeda Castle Photo：Hyogo Prefecture・Takeda Castle Ruins The beautiful sea of clouds at Takeda Castle is nothing short of breathtaking and would definitely look great on your Instagram! Be aware that the view will greatly depend on the weather, so be sure to check out the forecast before your visit. We recommend visiting with a feeling of "if you're lucky you'll see it, if not, it's still beautiful." In addition to the sea of clouds, you can also enjoy the beautiful cherry blossoms in the spring and the autumn colors in the fall at Takeda Castle. We also recommend stopping at the nearby Takeda-jimachi-dori, taking a bus tour, or staying at a guest house or hotel. ◆Outline information of Takeda Castle◆ 【Address】169 Takeda Kojoyama, Wadayama Town, Asago City, Hyogo Prefecture 【Access】10 minutes by Sky Bus from JR Takeda Station, 15 minutes by car from JR Wadayama Station 【Hours】Varies by season 【Admission fee】Adults 500 yen, free for junior high school students and younger 【Parking】Available 【Official Website】National Historic Site "Takeda Castle Ruins" Official Homepage | Asago City http://www.city.asago.hyogo.jp/takeda/ 【TripAdvisor】 Takeda Castle Ruins https://www.tripadvisor.com/ShowUserReviews-g1022837-d1239443-r23802865-Takeda_Castle_Ruins-Asago_Hyogo_Prefecture_Kinki.html

Amanohashidate - One of the Three Most Scenic Spots in Japan This video, titled JG☆☆☆☆☆4K HDR Kyoto, Amanohashidate (Special Scenic Beauty)" (JG☆☆☆☆☆4K HDR 京都 天橋立(特別名勝)), created by “JAPAN GEOGRAPHIC” is a promotional video that introduces “Amanohashidate,” a sandbar in Miyazu Bay (宮津湾, Miyazuwan), Tango, on the Sea of Japan, in northern Kyoto, as well as nearby sightseeing spots. Along with “Mutsunomatsushima” in Miyagi and “Akinomiyajima” in Hiroshima, “Amanohashidate” located in Miyazu, Kyoto is listed as one of the "Three Views of Japan," attracting many tourists with its mystical scenery. Located about two hours from Kyoto Station by train, Amanohashidate is an area where you can enjoy spectacular natural landscapes, historical sites, and mysterious power spots, which are quite different from sightseeing in downtown Kyoto. It is said that from about 7 to 8,000 years ago, the sand from rivers was deposited in an almost straight line due to collisions of ocean currents, and then an earthquake 2-3,000 years ago caused the accumulated sand to appear on the sea, and has continued to grow even to this day. It took thousands of years to create Amanohashidate as we know it today. You can see the mysterious and beautiful scenery that nature has created in 4K. Other sightseeing spots around it are introduced as well. There are so many spots to see around Amanohashidate! Two Observatories Where You Can Try “Matanozoki” at Amanohashidate Photo： Matanozoki at Amanohashidate Amanohashidate, with its sandy pine tree and spit beaches, is 20-170m wide and 3.6 km long, and is called "Amanohashidate" because of its slender, bridge-like appearance from the sky (The kanji roughly translates to "heavenly bridge"). Amanohashidate can be seen from the observatories at Amanohashidate View Land and Amanohashidate Kasamatsu Park. If you try “Matanozoki” (looking at Amanohashidate from between your legs upside down), you'll have to face away from Amanohashidate to see it. This makes the sky and the ground upside down and it looks like a bridge in the sky when viewed from “Kasamatsu Park” in the north, and it looks like a dragon flying in the sky when you look at it from “Amanohashidate View Land” in the south. At Kasamatsu Park, you can climb up to the observatory using a lift or cable car while looking at the beautiful scenery of cherry blossoms in spring. You can also enjoy seasonal flowers, such as hydrangea and beautiful autumn leaves. The top of the mountain where Amanohashidate View Land is located, can be reached by a lift, a ropeway and a cable car. On top of the mountain, there is a facility that even children can enjoy, with a ferris wheel and go-carts. You can see the ride to the top and a view of Amanohashidate at 0:28 in the video. Don't forget to bring your camera if you go! Historical Locations and Sightseeing Around Amanohashidate Photo：Three Views of Japan, Amanohashidate, Rotating bridge Chionji Temple is known for the wiseman Monju-san, and is visited by many students before taking their entrance exams. Monjudo Hall (the main hall) and Amanohashidate are depicted in the national treasure "Amanohashidatezu" by Sesshu. Also, Manai Shrine, located in the inner shrine of the prestigious Kano Shrine, called Moto Ise, is a famous power spot. Shishizaki Inari Shrine, with its red torii gate and approximately 1,000 "Mitsuba Azaleas" that turn the surface of the mountain pink in spring, and Seisouji Temple, with its magnificent five-story pagoda, are popular tourist spots. The temples and shrines around Amanohashidate are introduced at 1:52 in the video. Another popular tourist spot is Kaisen Bridge. It's a bridge that rotates to let ships pass, and connects “Amanohashidate” and “Monjudo.” It's a very popular place for taking photos. You can watch the bridge rotating at 2:05 in the video. Next to Kaisen Bridge is Amanohashidate Hot Spring Street. Chie-no-yu is a facility with an outdoor hot spring and an open-air bath, and there are other hot spring facilities where you can take a day trip to relax and recover from the fatigue of your travels as well. Amanohashidate is lined with 5,000 pine trees and has a sandy shore, making it a popular destination that many people visit every summer. The bridge can be crossed on foot or by bike. Isomizu is popular among tourists because of its mysterious fresh water gushing up from the sand surrounded by the sea. Many of Japan’s top 100! Famous place in “Amanohashidate” Kyoto “Amanohashidate” is home to many "top 100's." Amanohashidate is listed as on of the “100 Best Pines in Japan,” and “Isomizu” is listed on “Japan's 100 remarkable waters,” “Top 100 Roads of Japan”, “100 Best White Sands and Clear Pines in Japan,” “100 Best Historical Sites of Beautiful Japan,” “100 Best Historical Parks in Japan,” and “Top 100 Geological Sites in Japan.” Summary of Amanohashidate Photo：Amanohashidate, Lift and cable car This article introduced the history and sights of Amanohashidate alongside the video. We hope this article has shown you the beauty of Amanohashidate. There is a lot more information about sightseeing that we couldn't include in this article in the video. It's a beautiful 4K video, so be sure to take a look and see the sights we introduced in this article! Amanohashidate is a must visit spot where you can fully enjoy the beautiful sea and natural scenery. Consider putting it on your itinerary for your next trip to Japan! ◆Amanohashidate◆ 【Address】314-2 Monju, Miyazu, Kyoto 626-0001 【Access】A short distance from Tantetsu Amanohashidate Station 【Parking】Payed parking lot available 【Telephone】0772-22-8030 【Tripadvisor】Amanohashidate https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g1023393-d1164917-Reviews-Amanohashidate-Miyazu_Kyoto_Prefecture_Kinki.html

Introducing Osaka Castle This video, titled "[Sword World] Osaka Castle｜Swords and Armor｜Swords and Armor on Display in the Castle｜YouTube Video" (【刀剣ワールド】「大阪城」刀剣・甲冑に会える城｜刀剣・甲冑展示の城郭 YouTube動画), introduces Osaka Castle in Osaka. The castle's majestic appearance is famous as a symbol Osaka. However, most people don’t know the history of Osaka Castle. A Look at Osaka Castle Photo：Osaka Castle Osaka Castle was built in 1583 by Toyotomi Hideyoshi, the second of Japan's "Three Great Unifiers." As shown at 0:39 in the video, it's a massive, gorgeous castle with golden shachihoko ornaments. It was often called the "Golden Castle" because of this. The castle was a symbol of great wealth and power during Hideyoshi's reign, but after his death, it became the battlefield of Tokugawa Ieyasu and the Toyotomi family. In the end, Tokugawa Ieyasu came out on top, ending the reign of the Toyotomi family. Afterwards, Osaka Castle was seized by the Tokugawa Shogunate and became the base for its control of western Japan. During the Osaka campaign, the castle was heavily damaged and had to be rebuilt by the Tokugawa shogunate. The stone walls and moats that remain today were one such section that was rebuilt by the Tokugawa Shogunate. Swords and Armor Displayed in the Castle Source :YouTube screenshot Let's take a look at the history of Osaka Castle. It was the end of the Warring States Period (about 1615) and whoever won the battle between the Toyotomi and the Tokugawa families would become the unifier of the country. There were several important battles between Toyotomi and Tokugawa, but the decisive battle, and most famous one, is "The Battle of Sekigahara." Sengoku Hidehisa, a former feudal lord of the Toyotomi clan who followed Tokugawa Hidetada after Hideyoshi’s death, played an important role in this battle. His armor, as well as many other weapons, armor, and historical documents, are on display inside the castle. The present-day Osaka Castle was reconstructed in 1931, but it was destroyed during the Meiji Restoration and in air raids during the Pacific War. Today, the ruins of Osaka Castle are a special historical site, and a museum in the reconstructed site houses the famous blade, "Osaka Shinto," by an Osaka-based swordsmith, which can be seen at 2:10 in the video. The museum also houses "Kamichinokami Kunisuke" which is listed as Tangible Cultural Properties of Osaka Prefecture. It can be seen at 2:26 in the video. A number of armors, mainly from the Warring States period, are also on display. The chest with black leather, purple, red, and white armor, has been designated an important art object. You can see the collection of armor in the Osaka Castle from 2:29 in the video. Summary of Osaka Castle Photo：Osaka Castle Illumination The present-day Osaka Castle still has the inner citadel, the outer citadel, the watchtowers, and other structures that have been designated as important cultural assets, and you can also see the inside of the castle, which is currently undergoing a restoration project. Osaka Castle Park, known for its cherry blossoms and for being a great place for barbecuing, is also located in the vicinity, and is crowded with tourists who come to see the illuminations and light-up events. Osaka Castle is a symbol of Osaka, both in name and reality, as the adjacent Osaka Castle Hall hosts live concerts and other events. Enjoy delicious Osaka cuisine and learn about the history of Japan at Osaka Castle, a popular tourist destination! ◆Information◆ 【Address】1-1 Osakajo, Chuo, Osaka, Osaka 540-0002 【Access】A short walk from Tanimachi 4-chome (Yonchome) Station off the Chuo and Tanimachi Lines 【Admission fee】600 yen for adults 【Hours】9 am to 5 pm 【Closures】Year-end and New Years holidays 【Parking】Coin parking lot available 【Official Website】Osaka Castle https://www.osakacastle.net/ 【Tripadvisor】Osaka Castle https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g14127623-d320970-Reviews-Osaka_Castle-Chuo_Osaka_Osaka_Prefecture_Kinki.html

The Whole World Is Watching! The Amazing Technique of ‘High-Speed Mochi Pounding’! Japanese food culture, ‘Washoku’ was registered as an Intangible Cultural Heritage by UNESCO and is currently gaining attention worldwide. Recently, Japan has been welcoming a lot of foreign tourists whose main purpose is enjoying Japanese food culture. Mochi rice cakes are one of the most popular foods among the attractive Washoku. To make a delicious rice cake, it is not only important to pay attention to the ingredients, but also to the way it is prepared. Mochi Pounding is essential to creating great tasting rice cakes. ‘Mochi-tsuki,’ is a tradition of using a large mortar and pestle (in this case a mallet) to make mochi on New Year's day. Photo：Mochi pounding Have you ever seen high-speed mochi pounding? It's performed at Nakatani-dou, a Japanese confectioner, in Nara prefecture. Two or three confectioners pound mochi rice cakes using a mortar and mallet together at extremely high speeds, exchanging shouts to encourage one another. ‘Mochi-pounding at high speed’ is not only a performance for onlookers, but it is also an ideal method to make tasty mochi. You'll be baffled at the speed and accuracy of these mochi makers! High-Speed Mochi Pounding- Reasons for Pounding Mochi at Such High Speeds Source :YouTube screenshot Mochi-tsuki requires both a kaeshite, (mochi turner) and a tsukite, (mochi-pounder). It also requires a high level of skill to pound the rice evenly in the mortar, and the skill to control the moisture content of the rice by matching the movements of the pounder. When the temperature of steamed mochi-gome (a kind of rice suitable for mochi rice cake) becomes low, mochi may not have its ideal texture and easily falls apart and won't stretch well. Quickly pounding the rice while it is hot enough to keep it soft and stretchy results in a tasty rice cake with a rich flavor. ‘Mochi-pounding at high speed’ has its origin in Kamikitayama-mura village, Yoshino-gun, Nara prefecture where the Nakatani family is from. It is a traditional Japanese method that reflects the local history and culture. The master mochi-pounder is particular about the tools he uses for mochi pounding. The mortar, made by an artisan in Sakai city, is specially designed to be shallow so that the turner can easily turn mochi. The kine pestle should be heavy enough to pound mochi with its own weight. The master mochi-pounder of Nakatani-dou has various preferences for mochi-tsuki. They are shown in the video. Only the Best Ingredients Source :Nakatani-dou Yomogi-mochi is one of the most popular confectioneries of Nakatani-dou. The master mochi-pounder is very particular about the ingredients of Yomogi-mochi, as well as the mochi-pounding method. They use Hiyoku-mochigome rice from Saga prefecture to make good mochi rice cakes and also use top quality azuki beans from Tokachi, Hokkaido, along with young Yomogi (mugwort) leaves from Uwajima, Ehime prefecture. Yomogi-mochi is the result of a quest for excellence in cooking methods, ingredients, and taste. Summary of High-Speed Mochi Pounding Being shown on TV, ‘Mochi-pounding at high speed’ performed by the master mochi-pounder of Nakatani-dou attracted the national attention. And now, is gaining popularity from overseas as well, introduced by foreign media. The high-speed rice cake pounding by the masters of Nakatido, who drew the attention of the whole country with their amazing feats of craftsmanship on TV, has recently been picked up by international media and is becoming increasingly popular. Nakatido's high-speed mochitsuki chefs are not only popular in Japan, but also among people around the world. Nakatido says in the video that he wants his customers to be happy when they see the high-speed mochi pounding and even more happy when they eat it. These are words of someone who truly loves, and is dedicated to their craft. As a Japanese citizen, I am proud to see not only Japanese food, which is listed as an intangible cultural heritage by UNESCO, but also Japanese culture being admired by the world. 【Official Homepage】Nakatani-dou http://www.nakatanidou.jp/english/