The Shikoku Ehime Girls' Journey Is Full of Highlights! This video is "A Healing journey in Ehime - A Paradise of Love and Princesses - (Ehime Prefecture Tourism PR Video)"（いやされて愛媛旅～愛と姫の楽園～（愛媛県観光PR動画）） created by "EhimePref". One of Japan's leading tourist destinations, Ehime Prefecture, in the Shikoku region, is divided into three areas: Toyo, Chuyo and Nanyo. Toyo is one of the most popular tourist spots, with Imabari City and Saijo City, which are known for its Imabari Towels. The Nishi Seto Expressway has nine islands connecting Ehime and Hiroshima, with a total length of about 70 km, and we recommend the canyoning route for cyclists. The Chuyo area is the center of Ehime! Dogo Onsen, a World Heritage Site, is located in Matsuyama City, where the prefectural capital is located. There are many tourist spots related to Japanese history and culture there. The area around Dogo Onsen Station can be used for rickshaw strolls and more, which provides an authentic Japanese atmosphere! The Nanyo area is rich in nature, including the sea, rivers, and forests, as well as Ozu City, known as the little Kyoto of Iyo, and Uchiko, one of Nanyo's most famous scenic spots, where you can see nostalgic Japanese scenery that will take you back in time. This video introduces some of the highlights of Ehime, Shikoku's Instagram-worthy scenery and sightseeing spots. Although it is a short video, lasting only about 2 minutes, it is chock full of the charm of Ehime Prefecture, so please enjoy it. The Hashtags of Ehime! Photo：Yokaichigokoku Let's take a look at some scenic spots in Ehime, one of Japan's leading tourist destinations. Be sure to follow along with the video! The first place we visit is the “Uchikoza Playhouse (0:42),” which was founded in 1916 (Taisho 5) to celebrate the throne of the Emperor Taisho. Next, enjoy the "Uchiko Town Walk (0:48)," "Town Guide (0:52)," and "Kamihagatei (an Important Cultural Property) (0:57)." You can also enjoy cycling at Kurushima Kaikyo Bridge (1:08) and on the Nishi Seto Expressway (1:12)! After sunset, take a stroll along the "Nikitatsu Road (1:22)" or at "Dogo Onsen Station (1:26)" Pass the "Botchan Train (1:31)" and check in to "Dogo Onsen" (1:37) for the night." Also important, are: "Matsuyama Castle (1:45)", "Sliding Valley Canyon (1:45-)", "Shikoku Karst (1:45-)", "Roadside Station Besshi (1:45)" and "Budokan." There are plenty of popular sightseeing spots in Ehime, such as Garyu Sanso, Mimidotake, and Nishiyama Koryuji. There's plenty of Instagrammable spots to go around! Where will tomorrow take us? Recommended Local Cuisine in Ehime Photo：Sea bream Speaking of Ehime in Shikoku, citrus fruits indigenous to Japan, such as mandarin oranges and Iyokan oranges, are actively grown here! Japanese food such as takikomi taimeshi (sea bream rice) is also a local delicacy. You can see the sea bream from 0:59 in the video. In addition, there are also the "Kiri no Mori Daifuku," which makes a great souvenir, and the "Deai Imotaki," a seasonal delicacy. Events and Outdoor Activities to Experience the Past and Present of Ehime Photo：Dogo Onsen If you're sightseeing in Ehime, we recommend staying in the Chuyo area. From here, access to both the Nanyo and Toyo districts is great! Dogo Onsen, also known as Japan's oldest onsen inn, is a simple alkaline spring known as a beauty hot spring. There are many hot spring lodges and tourist hotels in the vicinity, where you can relax and unwind after a long day of travel. In addition, various events are held in every season, and outdoor activities such as the Niihama Taiko Festival, "Sea Walker" where you can enjoy underwater walks, mountain climbing Ishizuchi, and tide experience, are all very popular. A Paradise of Love and Princesses! Summary of Ehime Ehime Prefecture is a prefecture on the east side of the Shikoku region facing the Seto Inland Sea. Dogo Onsen, a World Heritage site known for its beauty hot springs, and the Seto Inland Sea's colorful climate and charming nature, make for one of Japan's most popular tourist destinations. The sea is beautiful and the locals are very kind! Many instagrammable spots are also introduced in the video. Watch this woman's travels in Ehime, Shikoku, a town of smiles, oranges, hot springs and natural scenery, and find your favorite Insta-worthy spots! 【Official Website】Ehime Prefectural Government Homepage https://www.pref.ehime.jp/index-e.html 【Official Website】 Visit Ehime - Ehime Tourism Information https://www.visitehimejapan.com/en?_ga=2.249638208.794270962.1587710022-1232782829.1587710022

The Islands of the Seto Inland Sea This time, we bring you a video with a superb view of the islands of the Seto Inland Sea. The video “Kagawa's Best Holiday - Awashima, Shishijima, Ibukishima, and Shonai Peninsula" (かがわ極上休日　粟島・志々島・伊吹島・荘内半島), is produced by Kagawa Prefecture's channel “Udonken.” The Seto Inland Sea area, famous for the Seto Ohashi Bridge, which is introduced in this video, has about 700 islands and beautiful scenery. Shodoshima is one of the most famous islands in Shikoku, but the Seto Inland Sea has many other attractive and recommended tourist attractions. This video summarizes four recommended sightseeing spots in Awashima, Shishijima, Ibukijima and Shonai Peninsula all in under 3 minutes. Enjoy the video of these beautiful, natural tourist destinations. Awashima - Appreciating Art Photo： Awashima seen from Mt. Shiude About 15 minutes from Suda Port in Kagawa Prefecture, Awashima is characterized by its three-winged screw-like shape. It is known for being home to the National Maritime Training School founded in the Meiji era (1868-1912 AD) as well as the Awashima Ocean Memorial Hall. Saya Kubota's work, "The Missing Post Office," which stores letters in unknown boxes in a post office, and a buoy garden which is decorated with cute art using buoys floating on the sea, are also popular tourist attractions. We recommend taking your time and watching the sun set on the calm Nishihama beach. Shisijima - The Island Guarded by a 1,200 Year Old Giant Camphor Tree Photo：The Giant Camphor Tree of Shishijima From 0:51 in the video, you can see Shishijima, in Kagawa Prefecture, which is a small island characterized by mountainous terrain. The 1200-year-old camphor tree on the island is a large tree designated as a natural monument of the prefecture. You can see the enormous, powerful camphor tree from 1:01 in the video. Climb to Kusunokikura Observatory, where you can overlook the Seto Inland Sea, and enjoy the scenery in harmony with nature. Ibuki Island Photo：Iriko Ibukijima Island, seen at1:30 is a fishing town where Ibuki Irico, Kagawa's famous gourmet food, is actively fished. Ibuki Iriko is a dried sardine processed from Japanese anchovy caught on Ibuki Island. On the sea side of the island, there are many Iriko processing plants referred to as "Iriba." Visit unusual sights such as the Ibuki Folk Museum and the mysterious "Toilet House," an Instagram-worthy piece of art. The Seto Inland Sea's "Shonai Peninsula" Photo：The Shonai Peninsula seen from the main shrine "Takaya Shrine" Finally, we introduce the Shonai Peninsula, which can be seen from 2:04 in the video. From here, you can overlook the beauty of the Seto Inland Sea from the Shiudeyama Observation Deck. You can walk to Maruyama Island, a legendary place in Japan, where the legend of Taro Urashima remains, at low tide, from the Ninaihama Beach on the Shonai Peninsula. The end of the legend of Urashima Taro is also the grave of Urashima Taro. The Sanuki Misaki Lighthouse at the tip of Shonai Peninsula is also a great place to see! Other Remote Islands and Places to Visit in the Seto Inland Sea Photo：Evening view of Seto Bridge There are many other famous islands besides the islands introduced in this video. Awaji Island, the largest island in the Seto Inland Sea; Shodoshima, famous for the movie "Twenty-Four Eyes"; Teshima, Naoshima, and Megijima, where you can enjoy modern art; Ikuchijima, a sacred place for cycling; Suo-Oshima, called the "Hawaii of the Seto Inland Sea"; Mukaishima, the closest remote island to Hiroshima; Okinoshima, a former Japanese military fortress; Osaki Shimojima, the setting for Suntory's drinking water commercials; and Nekojima Sanagi Island. Don't miss the Setouchi International Art Festival, an event held on 12 islands and in two ports in the Seto Inland Sea! The Seto Inland Sea has many hot spring inns and hotels. The sightseeing plans, routes and courses are up to you! Enjoy your trip to the Seto Inland Sea as you please. Summary of the Seto Inland Sea's Islands Each of the islands featured in these videos has its own unique characteristics. Which one's your favorite? The islands around the Seto Inland Sea can be accessed by the Seto Inland Sea Steamship or cruise ferry. If you're looking for a sightseeing trip to some of Japan's most scenic spots, take a cruise tour to enjoy the beautiful islands of the Seto Inland Sea! 【Official Website】Kagawa Prefectural Government Homepage https://www.pref.kagawa.lg.jp/ 【Tripadvisor】Kagawa Prefecture https://www.tripadvisor.com/Tourism-g298231-Kagawa_Prefecture_Shikoku-Vacations.html

The 0 Series Shinkansen Returns as the World’s Slowest Bullet Train/Railway Hobby Train! The video "[Railway Hobby Train] Debut｜Ehime Newspaper," (「鉄道ホビートレイン」デビュー・愛媛新聞), released by "ehimenp," is about the 0 series Shinkansen (The world’s slowest bullet train) running on the JR Shikoku Yodo Line, which stops at Uwajima station and Chikanaga station. This line runs along the Shimanto River. The Shinkansen is Japan's high-speed railway, celebrating its 50th anniversary. The first Shinkansen train to celebrate this anniversary is the 0 series, a car with a cute round nose that everyone has seen at one time or another. The 0 series Shinkansen can be seen at 1:10 in the video. Although the 0 series Shinkansen was retired in 2008, a diesel train car was converted to a 0 series Shinkansen-style train in 2014 to commemorate the 100th anniversary of the Yodo Line, which runs from Kochi Prefecture to Ehime Prefecture in the Shikoku region. That happens to be the "Railway Hobby Train" introduced in the video. The nicknames of the 0 series shinkansen are Hikari and Kodama. At the time, it attracted a lot of attention in Japan and around the world as a high-speed train that ran at the world's highest speed of 210km/h. Of course, the Railway Hobby Train is a sightseeing train, and since it is a slow-moving diesel train, it cannot achieve such high speeds, but you can enjoy a scenic tour of Shikoku while being gently rocked by the lovely dumpling-nosed cars of the nostalgic 0 series Shinkansen, which look just like the original. The cute Railway Hobby Train can be seen at 0:55 in the video. The Charm of the 0 Series Shinkansen Photo：Railway Hobby Train The Railway Hobby Train is a set of three cars that run on the Yodo Line. In addition to the 0 series Shinkansen train introduced in the video, there is the Shiman Trolley, which can be seen from 6:04 and the Kaiyodo Hobby Train, which can be seen at 6:09. Together with these trains, the three brothers of the Yodo Line are the centerpiece of the regional development. In other words, when we talk about railway hobby trains, we're referring to these three types of trains. Among them, the 0 series hobby train shown in the video is the most popular! Children and Adults Alike Are Excited! the Secrets of the Railway Hobby Train! Source :YouTube screenshot As you can see from 3:06 in the video, the Series 0 Shinkansen Railway Hobby Train has a model display area inside the train, where the very popular Plarail issue is on display, making it a true dream train for train enthusiasts and children. The Series 0 Shinkansen Hobby Train is based on the Kiha 32 series train, and a fully colored version of the popular N gauge product called "Micro Ace" is also available. The 0 series Shinkansen was also featured in the popular children's anime "Shinkansen Transforming Robot Shinkarion," so the 0 series Shinkansen is not only for old fans, but a dream come true for children as well. We recommend checking the operation status of the train on the official JR Shikoku website in advance, as it is expected to be very crowded on the days when the train is running. Summary of the Railway Hobby Train Source :YouTube screenshot There is a museum called Shikoku Railway Cultural Center in Saijo City, Ehime Prefecture. Here, there are 0 series train cars, that actually were once active as shinkansen, on display. In other words, Shikoku is a holy land for railway enthusiasts. The Railway Hobby Train also has a photo corner, but for those who want to take photos of the cute train cars traveling through the magnificent nature of Shikoku, the best place to do so is near the railway bridge on the Yodo Line over the Shimanto river. Don't forget to check the timetable in advance, as Shikoku is often hit by typhoons and operations are cancelled when the weather is bad. Also, the three hobby train brothers are limited to one run per day! Don't miss your chance! 【Tripadvisor】Railway Hobby Train https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g608510-d10758981-Reviews-Tetsudo_Hobby_Train_Yodo_Line_JR_Shikoku-Uwajima_Ehime_Prefecture_Shikoku.html

The Torii in the Sky: Takaya Shrine Video Introduction This video, titled "A Spectacular View of Takaya Shrine's Torii in the Sky at Sunset in Kanonji, Kagawa" (話題の絶景…高屋神社「天空の鳥居」からみる圧巻の“夕日”　香川・観音寺市), was uploaded by "Setonaikai Broadcasting" (KSB瀬戸内海放送). A Spectacular Sunset From the Torii in the Sky Photo：Takaya Shrine, Kanonji, Kagawa Takaya Shrine is located at the summit of the 404-meter-tall Mt. Inazumi, between the cities of Kanonji and Mitoyo in Kagawa Prefecture. The torii gate of the main shrine is called "Tenku no Torii" (天空の鳥居, "The Torii in the Sky") in Japanese. From the torii, visitors can look out over the city of Kanonji and the Seto Inland Sea. Beyond the torii, the sea and sky can be seen and it truly feels like you're floating in the sky. It's also a popular power spot for beautiful sunsets. [Video] 0:21 - The View Overlooking the Seto Inland Sea The torii gate, sea, and sky, create a world reminiscent of the movie "Your Name." It's not a film location, but it's a popular spot for tourists on Instagram. The video also shows the sunset, so be sure to check it out. [Video] 】0:47 - Sunset at Takaya Shrine Takaya Shrine at the top of Mt. Inazumi Photo：Takaya Shrine, Kanonji, Kagawa Takaya Shrine, also known as "Inazumi Shrine" or "Inazumi-san," sits at the top of Mt. Inazumi and is a well-known local shrine; in 2018, it was selected as one of the 88 Views of Shikoku. Climbing up from the lower shrine to the main shrine, you'll find the middle shrine on the way. The view from each of the torii gates is so spectacular that you'll want to stop and take a look. There are a total of 270 stone steps 'til you reach the top, and if you're lucky, you may see a wild rabbit on the way up. In spring, the large festival "Takaya Matsuri" is held, with a parade of drum stands amidst the blooming cherry blossoms and lion dances. The deities of the festival are Ninigi no Mikoto, Ukemochi, and Konohana Sakuya. The deities are believed to provide maritime safety, protection from floods, traffic safety, safe childbirth, a good harvest, and prosperous business. Things to Do Near Takaya Shrine Photo：Takaya Shrine, Kanonji, Kagawa In addition to Takaya Shrine, there are many other places to enjoy sightseeing around Takaya Shrine in Kanonji. There's a campground, an athletic park for hiking and climbing Mt. Inazumi, as well as a beach for swimming and clamming. After experiencing the world like "Your Name" at Takaya Shrine, consider checking out the surrounding area. To get to Takaya Shrine, you can take a shared-ride bus or community bus from JR Kanonji Station. To get there by car, take the Sanuki Toyonaka IC and follow the signs. Parking at Takaya Shrine is free of charge, but please note that there are times on weekends and holidays when private cars are restricted. Summary of Takaya Shrine, the Torii in the Sky Takaya Shrine in Kagawa Prefecture offers a mysterious and beautiful view. Visiting this shrine standing in such a beautiful place will put your heart at ease. Taking photos with the Torii in the Sky and the setting sun is truly a magnificent experience. The photos are great for Instagram too, so be sure to take a bunch! If you need some inspiration, check out the video for an idea of some of the different angles you can try. [Video] 0:28 - The Torii in the Sky and Blue Seas at Sunset The video also features an interview with a man who came to this location after learning about the Torii in the Sky on the Internet. It's truly a spot to throw on your bucket list. 【Official Website】Takaya Shrine https://www.city.kanonji.kagawa.jp/soshiki/21/13387.html 【TripAdvisor】Takaya Shrine https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g1022922-d17338377-Reviews-Takaya_Shrine_Hongu-Kanonji_Kagawa_Prefecture_Shikoku.html

A Tourist Enjoys Her Time in Japan Wearing a Yukata [Awa Odori]: Video Introduction This video, titled "Japan's Culture : Russian Lady Dreamed About "Awa Odori in Yukata(Summer Kimono) First Festival.," was uploaded by "youmemeyou tokushima." It introduces Awa Odori, a traditional Japanese festival. The video features a Russian woman who learned about Japan through watching anime and fulfilled her dream of wearing a yukata at a Japanese festival. Various food stalls lined up along the river, rows of lanterns, and the exciting Awa Odori dance are just a few of the many photogenic shots throughout the video. Awa Odori is one of the most popular festivals in Japan, and can be enjoyed by men and women of all ages, and even by foreign travelers. Be sure to follow along as you watch the video! Awa Odori - 400 Years of This Traditional Japanese Dance Photo：Awa Odori There are various theories as to the origin of Awa Odori, including Nenbutsu Odori from Japan's Kamakura period, Furyu Odori from the late Warring States period, and celebratory events held at the time of the construction of Tokushima Castle. In any case, Awa Odori has taken root among the citizens and has been passed down through the generations, even overcoming frequent bans. Awa Odori is known as one of Japan's traditional performing arts. One of the three major Bon Odori dances in Japan, Awa Odori attracts approximately 1.3 million people, and there is said to be about 100,000 dancers in groups called ren (連). The dance style is characterized by a male and female version, and various types of Awa Odori can be seen from daytime to nighttime at theaters and other viewing spots. In addition, Awa Odori Kaikan (a museum in Tokushima where visitors can learn about Awa Odori) has been making efforts to accommodate foreign tourists in recent years by providing English- and Chinese-speaking staff at the reception desk. During the Awa Odori Festival, the central area of Tokushima City is filled with lively dancing and excitement, and the many food stalls and lanterns add to the festive atmosphere. [Video] 2:34 - Food Stalls and Lanterns at Awa Odori When is Awa Odori 2024 in Tokushima City? Where is it held? Awa Odori dance in Tokushima Prefecture is also introduced. The schedule for the Tokushima City Awa Odori Festival 2024 is as follows. During the festival period, the main venues will be the Odori Plaza, Odori Road, and Machikado Plaza, in addition to the performance halls set up in the center of Tokushima City. Dates: August 12 (Monday) to 15 (Thursday), 2024 *Awa Odori Festival will be held on the eve of the festival on August 11 (Sunday). Place: All around the city center Awa Odori dance festivals are also held outside of Tokushima City. Awa Odori in Naruto City: Friday, August 9 - Sunday, August 11 (special performance site on the west side of JR Naruto Station and shopping streets in the city) Kamoshima Awa Odori in Yoshinogawa City: Friday, August 16, 2024 (Central Street in front of JR Kamoshima Station) Udatsu Town Awa Odori Festival: Sunday, August 11, 2024 (near in front of Roadside Station Ai Land Udatsu, Mima City) Tsurugi-cho Summer Festival Awa Odori Festival: August 15 (Thursday) and 16 (Friday) in 2024 (Sadamitsu Sadamitsu Central Shopping Street, Tsurugi-cho, Mima County) Ikeda Awa Odori Dance: Wednesday, August 14 through Friday, August 16, 2024 (JR Awa Ikeda Station area) Gorgeous Costumes and Unique Dancing - Enjoying Awa Odori Photo：Image of Awa Odori Awa Odori can be enjoyed by men and women of all ages and is accompanied by enthusiastic cheering from the crowd. It also features unique costumes and dancing styles for both men and women. The men wear happi coats or yukata in a unique style, and their dynamic performance, called "Otoko Odori," is very lively and exciting to watch. [Video] 0:30 - Otoko Odori "Onna Odori," the women's version, is characterized by elegant and graceful hand gestures and footwork repeated at a mesmerizing tempo. In the video, you can see a woman wearing a happi coat and performing "Otoko Odori." [Video] 0:17 - Women Performing "Otoko Odori" While Wearing Happi Also popular is the "Chibikko Odori," a children's version of the dances. One of the highlights of the performance is the musical accompaniment, which combines instruments, such as shamisen, drums, and flutes, to enliven the dance, and the unique musical style of each dance troupe. The light, two-beat tempo creates a stage where both the dancers and the audience can enjoy a sense of unity. [Video] 0:54 - Audience Members Participating in the Dance Koenji Awa Odori - Enjoy the Awesome Dances Performances in Tokyo Koenji Awa Odor in Tokyo is second in scale only to the Tokushima City Awa Odori and is known as a summer tradition in the area. The event is held every year in late August, and its history dates back to 1957, when it was started as a town revitalization event. The event in the shopping district led to the expansion of the event to surrounding towns and neighborhood associations, and today it is known as "Tokyo's Awa Odori" with 10,000 dancers, attracting many visitors. In addition to dancers from the Tokyo metropolitan area, dancers from Tokushima, the home of Awa Odori, also participate in the festival, adding to the excitement. Summary of Awa Odori, a Dance For Anyone to Enjoy Awa Odori is a popular summer event in Japan that tourists and foreign travelers can enjoy together. In the video, a woman in a yukata from Russia conveys the beauty of Japanese culture through Awa Odori. If you're planning on visiting Japan this summer, we highly recommend checking out Awa Odori, it's a dance that you can both watch and participate in, and will create a lifelong memory of your visit to Japan! ◆2024 Awa Odori◆ Event Period: August 12 (Mon.) - 15 (Thu.) *Advance party on August 11 (Sun.)

Iya, Tokushima: Video Introduction This video, titled "One of the Top Three Unexplored Regions of Japan: Iya Valley and Kazurabashi Bridge: A Hidden Scenic Place in Tokushima (Tokushima, Japan)" (【日本三大秘境】祖谷の秘境とかずら橋 : A Hidden Scenic Place in Tokushima（Tokushima, Japan）), was uploaded by "Anna Film Production." Kazurabashi Bridge in Tokushima, Japan Photo：Kazurabashi Bridge, Tokushima Prefecture Kazurabashi Bridge is a suspension bridge that has been designated as an Important Cultural Property by the Japanese government and is located in Miyoshi, Tokushima, in Japan's Shikoku Region. There is also a Kazurabashi Bridge in Fukui Prefecture, but this article will focus on the bridge in Tokushima Prefecture. There are various theories about the history of Kazurabashi Bridge, such as that it was built the famous Buddhist monk Kukai (Kobo Daishi) for villagers in need, or that it was built by Heike warriors to allow them to escape from their pursuers and easily cut down the bridge. The bridge is approximately 2 meters wide and 45 meters long, and is made of vines from the hardy kiwi. When crossing the bridge, visitors can clearly see the scenery below through the gaps beneath their feet, making it a thrilling experience! This is a popular spot for both Japanese tourists, as well as foreign tourists. If you're looking to take some picturesque photos for Instagram, we recommend visiting during the illumination. [Video] 4:40 - Kazurabashi Bridge Another Vine Bridge in Tokushima Photo：Oku-Iya Double Vine Bridge, Miyoshi, Tokushima In Miyoshi, Tokushima, there is actually one more vine bridge to be found. This is Oku-Iya Double Vine Bridge. There are two bridges, a male bridge, and a female bridge, and together they are called "Meoto-bashi" (wedded bridges). There is also a bridge (gondola) called Yaen, which can be crossed by pulling a rope, but as of June 2022, it is out of service due to a malfunction. [Video] 12:44 - Oku-Iya Double Vine Bridge Ochiai Village – A Nationally Important Preservation District for Groups of Traditional Buildings Photo：Ochiai Village, Iya, Tokushima Ochiai Village is situated on a steep slope. The village retains a historic original Japanese landscape with houses built from the mid-Edo period to the early Showa period and stacked stone walls. In 2005, it was registered as a Nationally Important Preservation District for Groups of Traditional Buildings. In the video, you can see thatch-roofed houses and views of houses dotting the hillside. [Video] 0:16 - Ochiai Village The Beautiful Biwa Falls and a Village of Scarecrows Photo：Kakashi no Sato, Tokushima Prefecture Iya in Tokushima Prefecture is also known for its beautiful valleys. The 40-meter-tall Biwa Falls, named after a fallen Heike warrior who played the biwa at the falls in memory of the capital of Kyoto, is a relaxing waterfall where visitors bask in the abundant negative ions. Visitors can also enjoy a walk through the verdant Iya Valley to experience the pristine nature of the area. [Video] 7:29 - Biwa Falls Kakashi no Sato (lit. 'Scarecrow Village') is a name derived from the fact that many scarecrows can be seen in the Iya region. You can even see some of the expressive scarecrows in the video. It's a famous sightseeing spot in Tokushima and is also known as Ningyo-mura (doll village). [Video] 8:13 - A Village in the Sky, Kakashi no Sato Accommodations and Dining in the Iya Region of Tokushima, Japan If you are planning to stay in Iya, Tokushima, a recommended hotel is Hotel Kazurabashi. There are many hot spring resorts in Tokushima Prefecture, but this one offers open-air baths in the sky, accessed via cable car, so you can enjoy the natural beauty of the Iya Valley with some great views. We also recommend Hanbee no Ie (半兵衛の), a rest area/restaurant where visitors can relax around a sunken hearth. For meals, you can enjoy local dishes, such as grilled river fish, grilled fish coated with miso, wild vegetables, and other local delicacies. Forest Adventure Iya Valley: Experience the Great Outdoors in Tokushima, Japan Forest Adventure Iya Valley is an outdoor park that opened in 2017. The establishment offers exciting activities in the great outdoors! It features a long zipline, which makes you feel as though you're flying through the sky, and is especially popular with children. It's recommended to wear comfortable clothing and bring a change of clothes as well. Summary of Kazurabashi Bridge in Tokushima, Japan Photo：Kazurabashi Bridge, Iya, Tokushima The Iya region of Tokushima, Japan offers historic Japanese scenery and abundant natural beauty. To reach Kazurabashi Bridge, it takes about one hour from the Ikawa-Ikeda Interchange (井川・池田IC) by car. Iya, which retains its rustic scenery, presents a different beauty in each season, such as the autumn leaves in the fall. If you visit Tokushima, Japan, consider expanding your plan to include the area around the Kazurabashi Bridge. 【Official Website】Kazurabashi Bridge in Iya (Designated as an Important Tangible Folk Cultural Property by the government of Japan) https://miyoshi-tourism.jp/en/spot/iyanokazurabashi/ 【Tripadvisor】Kazurabashi Bridge in Iya, Tokushima https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g1023595-d1397339-Reviews-Iya_Kazura_Bridge-Miyoshi_Tokushima_Prefecture_Shikoku.html

Introducing Shodoshima in Kagawa Prefecture! "Shodoshima - Extremely Romantic" (小豆島　極上のロマンチック), produced by "Udon Prefecture," is a PR video for Shodoshima, a remote island floating in the Seto Inland Sea in Kagawa Prefecture, in Japan's Shikoku region. Photo：Shodoshima You'll have a great time exploring the unique sights of the island, such as Olive Park and Olive Beach, and Angel Road which only appears at low tide. Check out the video to see the many fascinating sights of Shodoshima in the Seto Inland Sea! A Look at Kagawa Prefecture's Shodoshima Island Photo：Terraced rice fields and mountains At 0:22 in the video, you can see the huge stone gate formed by nature, and a sacred site perched among the rocks. In addition to this, there are other spectacular views of strange rocks created by tectonic movements and erosion, such as Kasaneiwa and the large tengu rocks, as well as the Kankakei Gorge and the Shihoyubi Viewing Deck on the hills. These can be reached by the Kankakei Ropeway. We also recommend places such as Shiroyama Sakura Park, Nakayama Senmaida, and Shodoshima Hometown Village, that are overflowing with beautiful natural scenery. Other must-see locations include Dofuchi Strait, in the Guinness Book of World Records as the world's most narrow strait, the village used for filming "Twenty-Four Eyes," where you can enjoy the scenery of good old Japan, and there's also the peace group. You can see these from 1:23 in the video. Hoshoin no Shimpaku, which is over 1600 years old, is introduced at 1:37 in the video. It's a popular power spot. Enjoy Contemporary Art at Shodoshima, Kagawa Shodoshima is famous as an island of art, and the Setouchi Triennale was held there in 2019. Don't miss "Star Anger," the symbol of Sakate Port, where dragons sit perched and roaring. There's also the mythological painting "Shodoshima Enki Emaki" in the ferry waiting area, as well as "Kotsugiki Kinji," "Secrets of Hanajunami Island" and "The Gift of the Sun" scattered around the island. You can check these out at 1:55 in the video! Dining at Shodoshima, Kagawa From 0:33 in the video, we're shown "Hishionosato," a soy sauce brewery where Shodoshima's specialty soy sauce is made. On a tour of the moromi storehouse, you can see the traditional production process for the soy sauce. We recommend try the local specialty "soy sauce pudding" as well. If you're looking for some authentic Italian cuisine, we recommend the hideaway restaurant on the hilltop "Furyu,"where you can taste local ingredients, introduced at 1:05 in the video. Summary of Shodoshima, Kagawa Photo：Angel road As shown in the video, you can take a ferry to Shodoshima Tonosho and enjoy a superb view of the sea. Sightseeing destinations on the island can be conveniently accessed by bus or rental car. There's plenty of delicious food to be found on Shodoshima, such as somen noodles and olive oil, so we recommend purchasing some as souvenirs. In this article we introduced information about Shodoshima. We hope you have a better idea of what the island has to offer! Enjoy your stay! 【Official Website】Shodoshima, Kagawa Town Hall http://www.town.shodoshima.lg.jp/ 【Official Website】Shodoshima | Kagawa Tourism Association Official Site - Udon Travel Net https://www.my-kagawa.jp/en/

Niyodo River: The Best Water Quality in Japan! This video, titled "[4K] 仁淀ブルー：奇跡の清流 仁淀川（高知県 仁淀川水系）Niyodo River,the best water quality river in Japan.," was created by "AQUA Geo Graphic." When asked about famous rivers in the Shikoku region, most people picture the Shimanto River (四万十川, shimantogawa), but did you know there is an even prettier river in the area? I'm of course referring to the Niyodo River. As the third largest river in Shikoku, after the Shimanto River and Yoshino River (吉野川, yoshinogawa), it ranks number one year after year as the river with the best water quality in Japan. As you can see in the video, the crystal clear water of the Niyodo River is absolutely stunning and has been given the name "Niyodo Blue" after its mystical blue color. In the video, you can enjoy viewing the river from both above and below the surface of the water! Serpent Sanctuaries and Instagrammable Spots Near the Niyodo River Photo：Niko Deep, Kochi Prefecture Mt. Ishizuchi's (石鎚山, ishizuchisan) Omogo River in Ehime Prefecture (愛媛県, ehimeken) is the main water source for the Niyodo River and the streams that run through the valleys of Kochi Prefecture (高知県, kouchiken). Niyodo River is 124 kilometers long and has a surface area of 1,560 square kilometers. The river runs through mainly mountainous regions and the combination of both the beautiful natural surroundings and stunning blue color of the river makes the area very picturesque. From 1:50 in the video, you can see the basin of "Nikobuchi" (にこ淵), which is thought to be the home of the legendary eight-headed serpent Yamata no Orochi. On a sunny day during the hours of 11 am and 3 pm, the light shines directly into the pool and the blue color of the river is even more prominent. We highly recommend visiting Nakatsu Gorge (中津渓谷, nakatsukeikoku) and Yasui Gorge (安居渓谷, yasuikeikoku) during the fall to see the beautiful scenery. There are many beautiful spots along Nakatsu Gorge, such as Uryu Falls (雨竜の滝, uryuunotaki), Momiji Falls (もみじだき) and Ryugubuchi (竜宮淵). The special rocks called "Ishibashira" (石柱) are another great sightseeing spot. The pool of water known as "Suishobuchi" (水晶淵) along Yasui Gorge changes color from blue to green depending on the season and time of day. The contrasting colors of the fall foliage and the river attracts many visitors and the area has become a very popular tourist destination. In the second half of the video, from 2:09, you can see some of the low-water crossings found along Niyodo River. A distinguishing feature of these types of bridges is that they have no sides or guard rails, which allows them to blend easily into the surrounding nature creating a beautiful landscape. The Niyodo River Is Popular Among Both Locals and Tourists! Photo：Niyodo River, Kochi Prefecture In recent years the number of tourists visiting the Niyodo River has increased dramatically, but the river is still just as popular among the locals. The Niyodo River area has a population of approximately 110,000. In the middle reaches of the river, there's the multi-purpose Odo Dam (大渡ダム) and facilities for flood control and power supply development, which support the lives of people living in harmony with the Niyodo River. There are also several campsites in the area for those who'd like to spend the night in the beautiful outdoors. There are many fun activities to take part in, such as canoeing and rafting or you can simply go for a swim. There is also a stone skipping competition held here each year. The locals can often be seen playing in the river. In 2002, the Niyodo River was the most visited river in Japan. Not only is it the most beautiful river in Japan, it's also the most loved river by its locals. Summary of the Niyodo River Photo：The Niyodo River and a low-water crossing, Kochi Prefecture The mystical blue water of the Niyodo River captivates all who look upon it. The majority of the river is surrounded by mountains making it fairly difficult to access via public transportation. We recommend renting a car or taking a trip to the river by bike! There is a roadside station near the river with hot spring facilities where you can also spend the night, a perfect place to relax after a long day of sightseeing. For those who don't have a valid driver's license in Japan but still wish to visit the Niyodo River, please check out the Niyodo River Tourist Association (仁淀川観光協会, niyodogawa kankou kyoukai) website for more information on how to access the river via public transport (※Unfortunately the website is only in Japanese). Some of the roads from the car park to the spots introduced in the video can be slippery so please be careful when walking. If you still haven't yet, be sure to enjoy the mystical world of the beautiful, blue Niyodo River in the video. 【Tripadvisor】Niyodo River https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g298233-d10383500-Reviews-Niyodo_River-Kochi_Prefecture_Shikoku.html

Sanuki Kagari Temari! This time, we'll be taking a look at the video "Sanuki Kagari Temari" (讃岐かがり手まり) released by "Japan Video Topics," that introduces Sanuki Kagari Temari. Sanuki Kagari Temari is a traditional handicraft that has been made in Takamatsu, Kagawa, in Japan's Shikoku region (四国地方, Shikoku-Chiho), for many years. With its elegant patterns, Sanuki Kagari Temari has been popular as a trinket for women and children. The beautiful patterns of cherry blossoms, maple trees, and cute animals are something you'll never get tired of looking at. Nowadays, they are also popular as decorative goods. Sanuki Kagari Temari has been popular among common people since the mid-Edo period (around 1700-1800 A.D.) as a fun activity to enjoy on New Year's Day, and has been handed down to the present day over a long period of time. How Sanuki Kagari Temari is Made Source :YouTube screenshot You can see how Sanuki Kagari Temari are made from 0:53 in the video. The cores of Sanuki Kagari Temari are made of rice husks. They are then wrapped completely with cotton thread to shape them into beautiful balls. When making Sanuki Kagari Temari, a dividing line is drawn with thread to serve as a guiding line for drawing patterns. The guiding lines for drawing detailed patterns are all wrapped by hand. This process can be seen from 1:08 in the video. The next step is to make the pattern by hand using marking pins. As the craft maker puts the thread together, a beautiful geometric pattern is created on the ball. The cotton threads used to sew the Sanuki Kagari Temari are dyed with natural plant dyes, a process called "Kusaki-Zome." There are around 140 different colors that can be used to color the cloth. Try Your Hand at Making Sanuki Kagari Temari! Source :YouTube screenshot If you want to experience making Sanuki Kagari Temari, check out the website of the "SANUKI KAGARI TEMARI Preservation Association." The website offers an online shopping section where you can buy handicraft kits that help you experience Sanuki Kagari Temari easily. Why not buy a set and enjoy making your own colorful Sanuki Kagari Temari? There are also workshops in Kagawa Prefecture where you can learn how to make and play with Sanuki Kagari Temari. Summary of Sanuki Kagari Temari, a Traditional Japanese Craft Source :YouTube screenshot In this article, we introduced Sanuki Kagari Temari, a traditional craft of Kagawa Prefecture. This video was made for those who are interested in Japanese culture, life, and customs. Sanuki Kagari Temari is the perfect souvenir to commemorate your trip to Kagawa Prefecture. You can buy Sanuki Kagari Temari products online as well, so if the video has you interested, be sure to check out their online store. 【Official Website】 SANUKI KAGARI TEMARI http://www.eiko-temari.jp/

The Udon Prefecture - Kagawa! This video, titled "VISIT KAGAWA Promotion," was produced by "Udon Prefecture" (うどん県), the official channel of Kagawa Prefecture. As you may or may not know, Kagawa Prefecture is famous for its Sanuki udon. You can see delicious looking udon, such as kake udon or kamaage udon during this video (0:34). However, Kagawa Prefecture has more to offer than just its delicious udon! Art and History in Kagawa Photo：A Woman Traveling Around Shrines and Temples Naoshima (直島: Naoshima), shown in the video (1:00), is a famous island where you can enjoy modern art. If you want to immerse yourself in the world of art, we recommend visiting Kagawa Prefecture's Higashiyama Kaii Setouchi Art Museum, the “Marugame Genichiro – Inokuma Museum of Contemporary Art,” and Kagawa Prefectural Art Museum.” Also, don't miss the Hyoryu Post Office, with a collection of unaddressed letters, and Zenigata Sunae of Kannongi City (観音寺市: Kannongi – Shi ). Kagawa Prefecture, is also famous for Shikoku Henro, a pilgrimage through the 88 temples of Shikoku. You can visit famous historical temples, shrines, and castles such as Kotohiragu, Zentsuji, Marugame jyo and Takamatsu jyo. We also recommend checking out Japanese traditional art and culture at the former Konpira Grand Theatre, the oldest theatre in Japan. Art Appreciation in Kagawa Prefecture! Photo：Ogijima seen from Megijima Ogijima (男木島: Ogijima), known as "Cat Island," and Megijima (女木島: Megijima) with the Onigashima cavern are two more famous tourist spots in Kagawa. Shodoshima (小豆島: Shodoshima), famous for "Angel Island", and Tsushima (津島: Tsushima), known as a power spot of Tsushima Shrine are also great places to visit. From a ferry, you can see a beautiful view of Seto Shirube (The guide of Seto), a famous red light house. Also, Yashima (屋島：Yashima) in the middle of Seto O-Hashi bridge is another spot where you can enjoy a beautiful view of the ocean! Tons of Sightseeing Locations in Kagawa Prefecture! Photo：Low tide at Chichigahama Kagawa Prefecture has many scenic locations to visit, such as Kuribayashi park, Sanuki Manno National Government Park, Flower Park Urashima, and the Shotsuji Mountain observation deck. Also you shouldn’t miss Chichibugahama (父母ヶ浜: Chichibugahama), an instagrammable location known as the “Salar de Uyuni of Japan,” and Honenike Dam, a dam with the oldest masonry in Japan. If you have children, we recommend visiting New Reomaworld or Sanuki Kodomonokuni. Kagawa Prefecture Summary Kagawa prefecture, facing the Seto Inland Sea, has more than enough tourist locations to see during a one or two day trip. We recommend lining up your visit with the Sanuki Takamatsu Festival, the Kotohira Festival, the Sanuki Toyohama Chosa Festival, and other popular festivals and events if possible. 　 There is various transportation, including buses and trains, in Kagawa prefecture as well. You can go anywhere you want without needing car. Also there are many places to stay as well, making Kagawa Prefecture very tourist friendly. If you want to see beautiful views and rare contemporary art, be sure to visit Kagawa Prefecture! 【Official Website】Official Website run by Kagawa Prefecuture https://www.pref.kagawa.lg.jp/ 【Official Website】Udon Prefecture Travel Net: Kagawa Prefecture Tourism Association Official Site https://www.my-kagawa.jp/en/

The World of Japanese Paper Is Deeper Than You Think This video, titled "Making the Thinnest Sheet of Paper in the World," was released by "Great Big Story." Introducing the characteristics, history, and production process of Tengu Joshi paper, a traditional craft of Kochi prefecture. English subtitles is also included for English-speakers. Japanese paper is a traditional culture of Japan. The process of making a single sheet of paper is filled with various considerations, from the selection of raw materials to the manufacturing process. Tengu Joshi paper made in Kochi prefecture is one of many Japanese papers. We hope that you'll take this video and article as an opportunity to learn about Japanese culture. A Closer Look at Japanese Paper Source :YouTube screenshot As you can see at 0:45 in the video, many people are involved in the making of Tengu Joshi paper. In this video, Mr. Hiroyoshi Chinzai, the president of Hidaka Washi Yugen Co., Ltd, explains about Tengu Joshi. In the video, he says he has a sense of responsibility for manufacturing and is challenging things that no one has before. What is Tengu Joshi Paper? Source :YouTube screenshot Tengu Joshi paper is a special Japanese paper made by Hidaka Washi Co., Ltd. in Kochi Prefecture. The diameter of the raw material, mulberry fiber, is 0.002 mm. It is the thinnest Japanese paper in the world. Tengu Joshi paper weighs 1.6 grams per square meter. A sheet of this amazing paper, at about half the size of a tatami mat, is lighter than two one-yen coins. The Roots of Tengu Joshi Paper Source :YouTube screenshot The knowledge required for the production of Tengu Joshi paper has been passed down from generation to generation, and continues to this day. It is said that the roots of Tengu Joshi paper is not based in Tosa, but in "Usumino" produced in Mino (present-day Gifu prefecture) around the 17th century. Tengu Joshi paper was created in the middle of the Meiji era (1868-1912). At that time, Kochi Prefecture had the production capacity to export wrapping paper, coffee filter paper, typewriter paper to Europe and the United States. In response to the need for rolled products, Hidaka Washi Co., Ltd. began to focus on mechanization and OEM production. The Process of Making Tengu Joshi Paper Source :YouTube screenshot First, "kozo," a type of hybrid mulberry, is purchased from farmers. The mulberry is then boiled to break it into fine fibers. The crushed mulberry is then mixed with water and kneaded to make a sheet. The resulting paper, made up of long fibers is highly transparent, strong, and supple. What is Tengu Joshi Paper Used For? Photo：Tokyo National Museum You might be wondering where Tengu Joshi paper is used. As it turns out, Tengu Joshi paper is used in various places. The National Archives of Japan, the Tokyo National Museum, and the British Museum are just a few examples. The paper is used to repair and protect deteriorated exhibits. The uses of Tengu Joshi Paper are expanding not only in Japan, but also overseas in places such as the United Kingdom. One could say that the paper is a technology recognized around the world. According to Mr. Chinzai Hiroshi, inquiries come from all over the world asking for Japanese paper that to restore exhibits, etc. In order to meet these needs, Tengu Joshi paper has been filled with innovations, such as using only natural fibers and dyeing the paper in colors suited to the object to be restored, during the raw material stage. Tengu Joshi Paper and Other Information Hidaka Washi Co., Ltd. doesn't just produce Tengujo paper either. They also provide thorough aftercare after delivery. One of the reasons why the world trusts them is that they carefully explain how to use their products. Tengu Joshi paper is also sold online, so if you're interested in getting some, considering checking it out. Tengu Joshi Paper Introduction Summary Source :YouTube screenshot Hidaka Washi Co., Ltd., founded in 1949, thoroughly selects the raw materials when making Tengu Joshi Paper. The completed Tengu Joshi paper is useful for national libraries and museums. In fact, you've probably seen it before and just didn't know. As you can see in the video, the world of Japanese paper is deeper than you'd guess. It will be interesting to see what kind of activities Hidaka Washi Co., Ltd., a company that specializes in the production of Japanese paper, will do in the future. 【Official Website】Hidaka Washi Co., Ltd. https://www.hidakawashi.com/

Shimonada Station - A Video Introduction to the Picturesque Station in Ehime, Japan This video, titled "Blackmagic Pocket Cinema Camera 4K （BMPCC4K） -"Shimonada Station" : 下灘駅," was uploaded by "Anna Film Production." Check out the video to see the beautiful Shimonada Station in 4K. Shimonada Station – The Closest Station to the Sea in Japan Photo：Shimonada Station, Iyo, Ehime Known as the station closest to the sea in Japan, Shimonada Station is famous as a spot for sunset photography and train photography. Maybe you've seen the station in a drama, movie, or anime, but don't know much about it. Shimonada Station is a station on the Shikoku Railway's Yosan Line in Iyo, Ehime, in Japan's Shikoku region. The station offers an unobstructed view of the Seto Inland Sea, and has become famous for its beautiful scenery, which is tinged with beautiful oranges and reds at sunset. Shimonada Station is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Ehime Prefecture. Shimonada Station – A Filming Location for Popular Japanese Dramas and Anime Photo：Shimonada Station, Iyo, Ehime Shimonada Station has been used as a filming location for many movies, TV dramas, and anime because of its picturesque appearance, the sweeping view of the Seto Inland Sea, and the fantastic scene created by the sunset. In movies, it was used as a location for the film series "Otoko wa Tsuraiyo," and in TV dramas, it was a location in the tv shows "HERO" and "Rebirth." In animation, Shimonada Station appeared in "Beyond the Boundary" produced by Kyoto Animation. It's also been pointed out that near Shimonada Station, a railroad track leading to the sea can be seen, reminiscent of Spirited Away, produced by Studio Ghibli. Shimonada Station is not only a popular destination for tourists, but also a place of pilgrimage for fans of movies, TV dramas, and anime. The picturesque scenery of Shimonada Station has also been used in TV commercials and posters, attracting many people to the station as the setting for visual works. Enjoy a Sunset Over the Sea at Shimonada Station Shimonada Station, an unmanned station, has the sea, the sky, the train, and a rather old covering and benches. Its picturesque scenery attracts many tourists. The sweeping blue sea, dyed red by the sunset, creates a photogenic sightseeing spot that any photographer or instagrammer would be happy to take a picture of. You'll be able to take a picture that looks like it's straight out of a scene from a movie. Summary of Shimonada Station, a Place to See Beautiful Sunsets Photo：Iyonada Monogatari, Shimonada Station, Ehime Take a ride on the Iyonada Monogatari, a sightseeing train, and see the beautiful sunset. Watching the sky turn from blue to orange, and gradually to dusk is a truly memorable experience. That being said, if you're planning on staying for a while, you'll need to kill some time. There aren't many places to see or eat around the station, so you need to be careful about that. You can take your time taking pictures of the sea and beautiful scenery, and enjoy the seasonal flowers in spring, summer, fall, and winter. There's also a café called Shimonada Coffee just outside Shimonada Station, where they serve delicious coffee. Relaxing on a bench at the train station, and sipping a cup of coffee is a great way to take a break. The "Sunset Platform Concert" (夕焼けプラットホームコンサート) held once a year on the station platform is another popular event. Unfortunately, the concert was held without an audience in 2021, but it's still held every September. It's a wonderful event where you can enjoy music together with beautiful scenery. 【TripAdvisor】Shimonada Station https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g1022359-d8707273-Reviews-Shimonada_Station-Iyo_Ehime_Prefecture_Shikoku.html

Introducing Shikoku Karst! This video, titled "[4K]天空のカルスト「四国カルスト」 Shikoku Karst Mountain in the Sky," was released by "AQUA Geo Graphic." Shikoku Karst, which stretches along the border of Ehime and Kochi prefectures, is known as the "Road to the Skies" (天空の道, tenkuu no michi or the "Corridor in the Sky" (天空の回廊, tenkuu no kairo), and has been selected as one of the three major karst formations of Japan (Akiyoshidai (秋吉台) in Yamaguchi Prefecture, Hiraodai (平尾台) in Fukuoka Prefecture, and Shikoku Karst (四国カルスト)). Shikoku Karst is a scenic location ideal for going on sightseeing drives. A Closer Look at Shikoku Karst, a Scenic Sightseeing Destination Photo：Shikoku Karst, Ehime & Kochi Prefectures Shikoku Karst is located at an elevation of about 1,400 meters above sea level and is approximately 25 kilometers wide from east to west, offering a panoramic view of the surrounding mountains, including Mt. Ishizuchi. Shikoku Karst, a karst plateau, is dotted with limestone rocks exposed on the surface of the earth due to erosion, and is popular for its beautiful scenery that makes it a popular destination for instagrammers. Part of Shikoku Karst is a grazing area. You can see cows grazing in the vast landscape at 0:42 in the video. National Route 383 (四国カルスト公園縦断線, Shikoku Karst Park Traverse) offers extraordinary scenery, including dairy cows and giant windmills. Enjoying Your Trip to Shikoku Karst Photo：The Mezurudaira Camping Ground at Shikoku Karst, Ehime & Kochi Prefectures Shikoku Karst, known as the "Karst of the Skies" and the "Switzerland of Japan," is beautiful in all four seasons. Particularly elegant is the silver grass in autumn, shown at 1:30 in the video. In the summer, we recommend pitching a tent and staying overnight at the Mezurudaira Camping Ground and stargazing under the beautiful night sky. If you aren't able to bring your own camping gear then we recommend staying at "Tenguso" (高原ふれあいの家 天狗荘) on "Forest Therapy Road" (森林セラピーロード). Tenguso also serves an excellent lunch, so be sure to make a reservation. The Godan Highlands (五段高原), Mezurudaira (姫鶴平), Onogahara (大野ヶ原), and the Tengu Forest (天狗の森) of Tengu Highland Forest (天狗高原自然林) in Shikoku Karst are all ideal for hiking. On the roadside, you can see pretty flowers, such as Japanese ligularia, bamboo lily, morning star lily, and more, so be sure to keep an eye out for them. Summary of Shikoku Karst Photo：Shikoku Karst, Ehime & Kochi Prefectures This introductory video for Shikoku Karst shows a spectacular view of the natural scenery and landscapes of Japan. In addition, while many people visit Shikoku Karst by car, it's also possible to visit by bike. Keep in mind, however, that depending on the season, roads may be closed, so we recommend checking live cameras before visiting. Also, make sure to research transportation access, weather, and temperatures before your trip so you'll be fully prepared! 【Official Website】Shikoku Karst – A Place of Scenic Beauty https://www.visitehimejapan.com/en/see-and-do/6614 【Tripadvisor】Shikoku Karst https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g1121435-d1383884-Reviews-Shikoku_Karst-Kumakogen_cho_Kamiukena_gun_Ehime_Prefecture_Shikoku.html

The Matsuyama "Dansemble"! Introducing Matsuyama Castle Through an Entertaining Dance Performance! This video, titled "(Matsuyama City Official PR Video) Matsuyama Castle 'Dansemble'" (【松山市公式PR動画】 松山城 「段サンブル」) was created by "Matsuyama City Official Sightseeing PR Channel - matsuyama-sightseeing" (【松山市公式】観光PRチャンネル - matsuyama-sightseeing). The video opens with Matsuyama Castle's mascot "Yoshiaki-kun" (よしあきくん) and then proceeds to introduce the castle itself starting with the castle keep from 0:03. From 0:09 in the video you can see the ropeway that takes visitors to the mountaintop station "Chojaganaru" (長者ヶ平). Other spots around the castle are also introduced, including the Japanese armor experience corner, the gates Tonashimon (戸無門), Kakuremon (隠門), Taikomon (太鼓門), and Ichinomon (一ノ門), as well as Kotenshu (小天守) and Honmaru Hiroba (本丸広場). Matsuyama Castle staff and visitors give a tour of each area whilst performing a comical and entertaining dance. More About the History and Highlights of Matsuyama Castle Photo：Matsuyama Castle, Ehime Prefecture Matsuyama Castle is located in Matsuyama City (松山市, matsuyamashi), Ehime Prefecture and also goes by the names Kinki-jo (金亀城) and Katsuyama-jo (勝山城). The name Iyo Matsuyama Castle (伊予松山城, iyomatsuyamajou) is also used to distinguish Matsuyama Castle in Ehime Prefecture from the Matsuyama Castle of a different area. Matsuyama Castle was built by Yoshiaki Kato (加藤嘉明) in 1602 after the Battle of Sekigahara (関ヶ原の戦い, sekigaharanotatakai) and Gamo Tadatomo (蒲生忠知) later became the first feudal lord of the Matsuyama Domain in Iyo Province. Matsuyama Castle's mascot "Yoshiaki-kun" was named after Yoshiaki Kato. The large castle tower, which is one of twelve castle towers built before the Edo Period (1603 AD - 1868 AD), has been designated an Important Cultural Property of Japan. The castle buildings are spread across several areas of the mountain: the Honmaru (本丸, inner bailey) is situated on top of the mountain, Ninomaru (二の丸, outer bailey) and Sannomaru (三の丸, third bailey) at the southwest foot of the mountain, Kitakuruwa (北曲輪) to the north at the foot of the mountain, and Higashikuruwa (東曲輪) to the east, also at the foot of the mountain. From the top of the main tower you can get a spectacular view of the Matsuyama plains (松山平野, matsuyamaheiya) as well as the Seto Inland Sea (瀬戸内海, setonaikai). The stone wall or "Noboriishigaki" (登り石垣), which surrounds the Ninomaru and Honmaru castle buildings was designed to protect the castle, and the entire Shiroyama Park area (城山公園, shiroyamakouen), which includes Horinouchi (堀之内) is an important Japanese historic site. Highlights of Matsuyama Castle Photo：Matsuyama Castle light up, Ehime Prefecture Matsuyama Castle came in second on Trip Advisor's list of top Japanese Castles in 2014. It has also been voted as one of the top three hilltop castles in Japan, one of Japan's 100 most famous castles, one of the top 100 cherry blossom viewing spots in Japan, one of the top 100 historic spots of Japan, and also one of the top 100 historic parks of Japan (in 2006). Matsuyama Castle can be enjoyed during the day but also looks spectacular lit up at night. The beautiful historical garden "Shisekiteien" (史跡庭園) and Horinouchi Park (堀之内公園, horinouchikouen) are fantastic places to enjoy nature and many people visit each year for cherry blossom viewing and birdwatching. Summary of Matsuyama Castle Photo：Cherry blossoms & Matsuyama Castle, Ehime Prefecture If you decide to visit Matsuyama Castle, you're likely to be greeted by some of the friendly staff featured in this PR video. If you enjoyed watching the video, consider planning a trip to Matsuyama for some sightseeing! There are many tourist spots in the area surrounding the castle, such as the famous hot spring "Dogo Onsen" (道後温泉). Ichiroku Tart (一六タルト) and mandarin oranges ("mikan" in Japanese) make great souvenirs from this area! ◆Matsuyama Castle｜General Information◆ 【Address】Matsuyama Castle General Office (総合事務所, sougoujimusho), Ehime Prefecture, Matsuyama City, Okaido (大街道, ookaidou) 3-2-46 【Access】5 minute walk from Iyotetsu Jonan Line (伊予鉄道城南線, iyotetsudoujounansen) Okaido station. 【Admission Fee】Adults – 520 yen, Children – 160 yen 【Average Time Spent Here】60-90 minutes 【Parking】Available (fee required) 【Telephone】Matsuyama Castle General Office 089-921-4873 【Tripadvisor】Matsuyama Castle https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g298230-d320876-Reviews-Matsuyama_Castle-Matsuyama_Ehime_Prefecture_Shikoku.html

Drone Footage of the Whirlpools of the Seto Inland Sea and the Onaruto Bridge! The video that we'll introduce today is called "[Aerial View] Seto Inland Sea Whirlpools｜Drone Footage of Onaruto Bridge [4K]｜Tokushima to Awaji Island, Hyogo" (【絶景空撮】瀬戸内海・渦潮 ドローン空撮 大鳴門橋【4K】（四国徳島〜兵庫淡路島）). The video was created by "winteroptix." It shows beautiful drone footage of the whirlpools of the Seto Inland Sea and the Onaruto Bridge. You can enjoy a beautiful view of the Seto Inland Sea, the Naruto whirlpools, and the magnificent scenery of the Onaruto Bridge, all in one video! The Onaruto Bridge and Whirlpools of the Seto Inland Sea Photo：Onaruto Bridge Onaruto Bridge (大鳴門橋,Onarutokyo) is a suspension bridge that connects Fukurahei, Minamiawaji City, Hyogo Prefecture and Tosadomariura, Naruto Town, Naruto City, Tokushima Prefecture. The bridge is 1,629 meters long and 25 meters wide, and its main tower is 144.3 meters tall. Honshu-Shikoku Bridge (本州四国連絡船橋, Honshushikokurenrakukyo), Onaruto Bridge, and Akashi Kaikyo Bridge (明石海峡大橋, Akashikaikyoohashi) are 3 of the most crucial traffic routes connecting Honshu (本州) and the Shikoku Region (四国地方,Shikokuchiho). Since the bridges span the sea, they are often closed to traffic due to wind speeds, so be careful when passing through. Onaruto Bridge is a motorway so you cannot cross it by foot, bicycle, or scooter. There used to be a ferry company called Naruto Ferry that ran between the Shikoku Region and Awaji Island (淡路島, Awajishima), but it is now out of business. There is a plan to add a railroad to Onaruto Bridge and enable the Shikoku Shinkansen to cross the Seto Inland Sea in the future, so you may one day be able to go to the Shikoku Region by bullet train! The Amazing Naruto Whirlpools Near Onaruto Bridge Photo：Naruto Strait The Naruto whirlpools are whirling tides of water that appear in the Naruto Strait (鳴門海峡, Narutokaikyo). You can observe them at around 0:07 in the video. Some of these whirlpools have a diameter of 20 meters, making them the largest whirlpools in the world. The Naruto whirlpools appear due to currents from the Seto Inland Sea and the Kii Channel (紀伊水道, Kiisuido) violently colliding with one another near Naruto. The area around Naruto has a wide tidal range, with the difference between the high tide and low tide going up 1.5 meters during the spring, and its current is said to be the fastest in Japan. The Naruto Strait is said to be one of the world’s three major currents, along with Italy's Strait of Messina and Canada’s Seymour Narrows. Famous Tourist Spots to View the Whirpools Photo：Naruto whirlpools There's a sidewalk called "Uzu no Michi (渦の道) on Onaruto Bridge, which hangs over the Seto Inland Sea. From here, you can look down at the Naruto whirlpools from the bridge. The area gets many tourists and is famous for being instagrammable! The entry fee is 510 yen for adults, 410 yen for junior high and high school students, and 260 yen for young children. There's also the Onaruto Bridge Museum Eddy (大鳴門橋架橋記念館エディ, Onarutokyo kakyo kinenkan eddy) nearby, so consider dropping by during your visit. The bridge is lit up at night, providing a a beautiful view that you won't be able to see during the day. If you want to observe the Naruto whirlpools up close, we highly recommend taking a cruise on the whirlpool sightseeing boats run by Uzushio-kisen. The cruise ships go near the whirlpools, so you can experience the thrilling natural phenomenon! If you're prone to seasickness, be sure to take some seasickness medicine beforehand! Roadside Station Uzushio (道の駅うずしお, Michinoekiuzushio) and Naruto Park (鳴門公園, Narutokoen) on Awaji Island are great places to stop and rest. Tokushima Prefecture is full of tourist attractions, such as the Awa Odori Festival (Awa Dance Festival​), Tokushima Ramen, and temples included in the "88 Shikoku Temples"! Summary of the Naruto Whirlpools of the Seto Inland Sea Source :YouTube screenshot Today, we introduced drone footage of the whirlpools of the Seto Inland Sea and Onaruto Bridge. If this article/video have you interested in the Naruto whirpools, be sure to visit Tokushima prefecture! 【Tripadvisor】Seto Inland Sea https://www.tripadvisor.com/ShowUserReviews-g298561-d554137-r138282192-Setonaikai-Hiroshima_Hiroshima_Prefecture_Chugoku.html 【Tripadvisor】Onaruto Bridge https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g678355-d1384640-Reviews-Onaruto_Bridge-Naruto_Tokushima_Prefecture_Shikoku.html

The Popular Awa Odori Dance Festival of Tokushima This video, titled "AWA ODORI - IS JAPAN COOL? MATSURI - Festival (Awa Odori Dance Festival/Tokushima)" (AWA ODORI - IS JAPAN COOL? MATSURI - 祭 （阿波踊り／徳島）), was uploaded by ANA Global Channel. It introduces the Awa Odori Dance Festival of Tokushima. Among the various festivals held in Japan throughout the year, Tokushima's Awa Odori Dance Festival is one of the most famous and popular festivals among Japanese people. In this article, we'll introduce the origins and history of the Awa Odori Dance Festival, as well as some nearby tourist attractions! The History of the Awa Odori Dance Festival Photo：Taiko drums at Awa Odori, Tokushima Prefecture The Awa Odori Dance Festival is a festival with a history dating back more than 400 years in Tokushima, which was once referred to as Awa Province. The festival's history dates back to the Edo Period (1603-1868) when indigo merchants in the Awa Province enjoyed the entertainment of geisha. After the Meiji Period (1868-1912), the content of the dance became gradually more refined. If you want to learn more about the history of the Awa Odori Dance Festival, we recommend visiting Awaodori Kaikan, a museum in the center of Tokushima City. More About the Awa Odori Dance Festival Photo：Awa Odori, Tokushima Prefecture Bon dances and festivals are held in many parts of Japan during the Obon season. The Awa Odori Dance Festival in Tokushima is one of the bon festival events, and is called "Awa no Bon Odori." It is held from August 12th to 15th every year. The scale of the event is so large that it is considered one of the three major Bon Dances in Japan and one of the three major festivals of Shikoku (the smallest of Japan’s major islands). More than 100,000 dancers participate in the Awa Odori Dance Festival, and over a million visitors come to the festival each year. From just the sheer number of visitors, it's easy to understand that it's a popular festival that represents Japanese culture. Feel the Heat of the Awa Odori Dance Festival! Photo：Awa Odori, Tokushima Prefecture As you can see at 8:26 in the video, the music of Tokushima's Awa Odori uses traditional Japanese instruments, such as drums, gongs, flutes, and shamisen. The people who join the dance wear kimono or yukata, braided hats, geta (wooden clogs) and carry lanterns. There are two types of dances, men's dance and women's dance, be sure to watch both as they're quite different. At the end of the festival, more than 1,000 people dance in unison, and the streets are filled with music and cheering. If you want to experience the power of the festival with a good view, we recommend purchasing bleacher seats, like the ones shown in the video. By joining the "Niwaka-ren" dance group on the day of the festival, you can have a blast dancing at the festival! This can be seen at 11:18 in the video. Summary of Tokushima's Awa Odori Dance Festival Photo：Awa Odori, Tokushima Prefecture The Awa Odori Dance Festival is a traditional festival that shows us the beauty of Japan through traditional performing arts. There's a saying in Japanese that goes “Odoru aho ni miru aho, onaji aho nara odoranya son son” (踊る阿呆にみる阿呆、同じ阿呆なら踊らにゃ損々), which roughly translates to "If the dancer is a fool, so too then is the spectator, so why not everybody dance?!" Joining in the Awa Odori Dance Festival will make for an unforgettable experience! 【Tripadvisor】Awa Odori https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g298236-d10019439-Reviews-Awa_Odori-Tokushima_Tokushima_Prefecture_Shikoku.html

Ehime Prefecture's Matsuyama City, Toon City, and Tobe Town! This video was created by "[Matsuyama City Official] Sightseeing PR Channel- matsuyama-sightseeing" (【松山市公式】観光PRチャンネル - matsuyama-sightseeing), and is a sightseeing PR video for Ehime, titled "Matsuyama City, Toon City, and Tobe Town. Wide Range Sightseeing Video"（「松山・東温・砥部」広域観光映像）. Matsuyama City is the capital of Ehime Prefecture, and the largest city in Shikoku, with a population of over 500,000. In the Edo period (1603-1868), it flourished as a castle town centered on Matsuyama Castle. Today still, it has a rich atmosphere with Matsuyama Castle and Dogo Onsen Bekkan Asukano Onsen, the oldest hot spring inn at Dogo Onsen. It's chock full of history. It is also has ties to important cultural figures such as Masaoka Shiki and Natsume Soseki, and has become a stage for many Japanese literatures, such as "Botchan" and "Sakano Ueno Kumo." It is visited by many tourists every year. In this video, we introduce the charms of Toon city, a mountain pass adjacent to Matsuyama city, and Tobe town, referred to as the village of pottery and mandarin oranges. Let's visit the popular tourist spots around Matsuyama city! Spring Highlights - Shigenobugawa Riverbed Cherry Trees Photo：Matsuyama Castle Matsuyama Castle is famous as the largest tourist spot in Ehime Prefecture. It's introduced from the beginning of the video, at 0:10. Historic Japanese buildings also attract many visitors every year. The beauty of the illuminated Matsuyama Castle Garden and the sunset is a sight to behold. 2:13 in the video has some superb views of these. Matsuyama city is warm and has little rainfall, making it a comfortable place to stay, and you can enjoy various activities there as well. In particular, the cherry blossoms lining the Shigenobu River connecting Toon City and Matsuyama City is spectacular. It is a must-see for anyone sightseeing in Matsuyama City. The video also shows some stunning cherry blossom spots from 0:15. In addition, you can see the natural scenery of Choushi Falls in Tobe Town, the fresh greenery of the Hirota area, Mt. Tobe, and the cabbage fields in the area. As you can see, there are many instagrammable places to see around Matsuyama City in the spring. Shiogamori Furusato Park, the Youkou cherry blossoms of Akasaka Izumi, and the Nanaori Koume are also worth checking out when sightseeing in Matsuyama. Summer Highlights - The Mitsuhama Fireworks Festival Photo：Mitsuhama Fireworks Festival Matsuyama city in summer is also full of attractions! Our top recommendation is the Mitsuhama Fireworks Festival, the climax of the Matsuyama Port Festival. You can see a magnificent view of 10,000 fireworks coloring the night sky in Matsuyama City. This is shown at 0:53 in the video. It's a popular event visited by about 230,000 people. Ehime Prefecture is one of the most prominent mountainous areas in Japan, and there are many terraced paddy fields on steep slopes. At sunset, you can see a stunning collaboration of ears of rice, the fresh green of the surrounding mountains and the reddish-brown sky, and you will be able to see the original landscape of Japan that was almost forgotten. At sunset, you can see a collaboration between the ears of rice and surrounding mountains as they blend in with the madder red sky to create a scenery of a Japan long forgotten. Taking a leisurely stroll along the riverside in Mitsu is a great way to cool off as well. Autumn Highlights - Autumn Leaves in the Namegawa Valley Photo：Namegawa Valley The fall of Matsuyama, where the sea and the mountains are close together. Autumn is a colorful season in Matsuyama. The sea and mountains are nearby, and the changing of the leaves makes for a wonderful sight. There are plenty of places to visit as well, such as Namegawa Valley, Karasaki Falls, Senba Valley, Touritani Pond, Shiraino Falls, and more. The red color of Matsuyama, Ehime Prefecture is introduced at 1:47 in the video. Fall is also sports season! That being said, it's nice to go jogging while enjoying the autumn leaves at Toon City General Park. You can also experience the winter season with the entirety of Namegawa Valley covered in snow from 2:27. Enjoying the beauty of nature throughout the four seasons is one of the attractions of Matsuyama, Toon, and Tobe in Ehime Prefecture. Sightseeing Information for Tobe-Cho Tobe is known for its pottery and mandarin oranges. The vast orange fields in Tobe are introduced at 2:41 in the video. Tobe ware, a traditional Japanese craft and intangible cultural property, is a style of pottery with a history of more than 240 years. To this day, Tobe is still one of Japan's leading pottery towns. The workshop in Tobe, where you can experience pottery making, is a popular tourist spot, and there are plenty of souvenirs made using Tobe-cho's specialty oranges. Dining in Matsuyama Matsuyama City is also known as a fishing town, being home to both Matsuyama and Mitsuhama Ports. The red sea bream is particularly famous, so when you come to Matsuyama, we recommend trying out the famous sea bream rice near the hotels, historical sites, and Dogo Onsen. Summary of Sightseeing in Matsuyama Photo：Matsuyama city In this article, we introduced sightseeing spots in Matsuyama city, Toon city, and Tobe town in Ehime prefecture, and in the video, we're shown beautiful 8K images of them. Matsuyama City is a place where you can enjoy seafood and local cuisine with little rainfall throughout the year. There are many sightseeing spots besides Matsuyama Castle and Dogo Onsen too, so we recommend checking them out when you have time. Be sure to watch the video created by the "Municipal Tourism Cooperation Promotion Council" led by Matsuyama City. Are you packing your bags for Ehime yet? 【Official Website】Matsuyama City, Ehime City http://translate.google.co.jp/translate?hl=ja&sl=ja&tl=en&u=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.city.matsuyama.ehime.jp%2F

An introduction to sightseeing in Matsuyama city, Ehime prefecture The video（松山市魅力発信映像 観光名所・施設） was created by "Ii, kagen. Matsuyama" (いい、加減。まつやま). It is a promotional video that introduces popular sightseeing spots in Matsuyama city, Ehime prefecture in Japan's Shikoku region (四国地方, Shikoku chihou). Matsuyama city is home to what is thought to be the oldest hot spring in Japan- "Dogo Onsen." The city is dotted with many other sightseeing destinations as well; such as Matsuyama castle which is famous as a cherry blossom viewing spot in the spring. In this article and video we would like to introduce you to some popular travel destinations and famous tourist attractions in Matsuyama. We will also talk about the various sightseeing spots introduced in the video via aerial photography. Matsuyama's beautiful scenery can be enjoyed not only during the daytime, but also at night when the city is lit up. What kind of sightseeing spots does Matsuyama have? Photo：Matsuyama city Matsuyama city is located in the northern Shikoku area, in Ehime prefecture. This region has a warm climate with very little rain, making it a very comfortable place to live. The population (based on data from January 2019) is roughly 514,900. If you’re travelling by plane, the nearest airport is Matsuyama airport (松山空港, Matsuyamakuukou). If you’re travelling by boat, the nearest port is Matsuyama Tourist Port (松山観光港, Matsuyama kankoukou) and if travelling by train, the city is easily accessible through JR Matsuyama station (松山駅, Matsuyamaeki). The tourist spots are all within close proximity to one another making it a convenient and popular city to travel around by public transport. Dogo Onsen- The sightseeing location that represents what Matsuyama is all about Photo：Dogo Onsen One of the symbols of Matsuyama city "Dogo Onsen", thought to be the oldest hot spring in Japan, is featured in the opening scenes of the video. Famous figures such as Natsume Souseki and Masaoka Shiki are known to have visited this hot spring. The unique and picturesque wooden three-story building has been renovated multiple times and as one of the first public bathhouses in Japan is an important cultural asset. If you take a day trip to Matsuyama we highly recommend you give it a visit! More sightseeing in Matsuyama - The history and culture of Matsuyama Photo：Bocchan Karakuri Clock 12 seconds into the video you can see the Bocchan Karakuri Clock (坊っちゃんカラクリ時計, Bocchan karakuridokei), a character from the famous Natsume Souseki novel Bocchan comes out from inside the clock accompanied by music once every hour. Right next to the clock is an area where you can relax and soak your feet in warm water directly from the Dogo Onsen hot springs. Another popular way to enjoy sightseeing around Dogo Onsen Station (道後温泉駅, Dougo onsen eki) is by rickshaw. Why not take a ride on the adorable Bocchan Ressha, a restored steam train that departs from Dogo Onsen Station? You can see this in the video at 0:17. Currently on display at Sakanouenokumo Museum are Meiji period exhibits like the Ryotaro Shiba (遼太郎司馬)and Masaoka Shiki exhibits. The undressed concrete building, designed by famous Japanese architect Tadao Ando, is a piece of art in itself. At 0:36 in the video you can take a look at the stunning Ehime Martial Arts Stadium (愛媛県武道館, Ehimeken budoukan), a beautiful wooden structure built from Ehime's locally grown timber. This magnificent building is as grand as the Nippon Budokan in Tokyo. You can enjoy a variety of amusements at Matsuyama Central Park (松山中央公園, Matsuyama chuuoukouen) which houses Botchan Stadium (坊っちゃんスタジアム, Botchan sutajiamu), a tennis court, a pool and a large sporting area. The Matsuyama Shiki Memorial Museum (松山市立子規記念博物館, Matsuyamashiritsu shikikinen hakubutsukan) tells the story of famous haiku poet Masaoka Shiki and contains many other historic pieces of Matsuyama's literature as well. Matsuyama Castle Ninomaru Historic Site (松山城二之丸史跡庭園,Matsuyamajou ninomaru shisekikouen), which is also referred to as “Lovers Sanctuary”(恋人の聖地, Koibito no seichi), is a garden designed to recreate that of the Matsuyama feudal lord's residence and is popular with couples. It is also popular as a pre-wedding photography spot. Finally, from 0:53, they introduce Matsuyama Castle, a sightseeing spot you can't afford to miss on your trip to Ehime prefecture. As one of only 12 castles in Japan built before the Edo period (in 1603), this castle and castle tower are a must-see for history buffs and castle fans alike. There is also a brilliant view from the castle tower which overlooks the city out onto the Seto Inland Sea (瀬戸内海, Setonaikai), and the castle is also a popular cherry blossom viewing spot in the spring. Matsuyama sightseeing introduction summed up You can see all of the sightseeing destinations mentioned in this article in the video "Matsuyama city sightseeing spots and attractions." From hot springs and historic landmarks to cultural facilities such as museums and exhibitions, please use our video as inspiration for your next trip to Matsuyama! We hope after watching our video you are eager to visit! 【Official Website】Matsuyama City Hall https://www.city.matsuyama.ehime.jp/multilingual.html 【Official Website】Matsuyama tourist information site https://en.matsuyama-sightseeing.com/

Aizome Dyeing - A Traditional Japanese Craft This video, titled "A Traditional Aizome Dyeing Experience｜nippon.com" (昔ながらの藍染め体験 nippon.com), was released by "nippon.com." The video shows the traditional Japanese dyeing and weaving technique called "Aizome" (藍染, lit. "indigo dyeing") that has been passed down since ancient times in Japan. Those of you interested in traditional Japanese cultures have probably heard of it at one time or another. Kimono and other clothes dyed in indigo blue with "Ai-shiru" (liquid gathered from the leaves of the indigo plant) are resistant to fading and meet the demands of many people. It is also known outside of Japan as JAPAN BLUE. In this article we'll introduce the dyeing process. Be sure to follow along! Aizome Dyeing Source :YouTube screenshot This video shows an Aizome dyeing experience, and provides an easy-to-understand summary of the key points of Aizome. The Aizome dyeing experience shown in the video was taken at "Ai-no-Yakata" in Tokushima Prefecture. You can learn how to create beautiful works using the "Ai-Shiru." Ai-no-Yakata displays resources related to indigo, and is one of Tokushima Prefecture's most popular tourist sites. The Museum is closed on Tuesdays (excluding holidays) and December 28th to January 1st. What is Aizome? Photo：Aizome Aizome refers to dyeing products using indigo, a plant of the Persicaria family. In Japan, indigo dyeing is made from fermented "Persicaria tinctoria," or the Japanese indigo. Aizome was most widely spread in the Edo period (1603-1868). Tokushima Prefecture, as seen in the video, is particularly famous for its Aizome. There are also a number of facilities related to Aizome in Tokushima Prefecture. One of the characteristics of Aizome is that, despite it using one color, there is a wide range of colors used for it, including pale blue-green, light indigo, katsu-iro (a shade of blue darker than dark blue), tome-kon, and Usuai (light blue). Indigo contains polyphenols, and many manufacturers produce supplements and vegetable juice drinks with it. Facilities for Aizome in Tokushima Prefecture Photo：Aizome Workshop There are several facilities related to Aizome in Tokushima Prefecture, so if you want to learn about the history of Aizome, we recommend checking them out. In addition to "Ai-no-Yakata" shown in this video, the following places are also worth checking out. ・AIZOMEKOUGEIKAN (藍染工芸館) ・Awa Aizome Shijira-kan (阿波の藍染しじら館) ・Furusho-zome Kojo (古庄染工場) ・Waza-no-Yakata (技の館) "AIZOMEKOUGEIKAN" (Aizome Craft Workshop) in Tokushima City (徳島市), Tokushima Prefecture in Japan's Shikoku region, is the factory exhibition hall of Takumi Kagawa, the holder of the traditional technique of Awa Ai-gata dyeing. You can experience Aizome at the factory. The factory also sells gifts, like scarves and T-shirts. Awa Aizome Shijira-kan, located in Tokushima City, Tokushima Prefecture, offers a tour of the Awa Shijira weaving factory. You can enjoy an indigo dyeing experience here too. Furusho-zome Kojo, located in Tokushima City, Tokushima Prefecture is a factory owned by Toshiharu Furusho. You watch aizome dyeing at the factory. Waza-no-Yakata in Itano District (板野郡), Tokushima Prefecture, is a facility where you can enjoy observing the process of Aizome and the making of Awa-wasanbon sugar, as well as hands-on experiences. Items Made With Aizome Aizome products range from hand towels, yukata, purses, stoles (shawls), dresses, and masks. They are available at shops at the craft museums and online shopping sites. The Process of Aizome - Learning From the Aizome Experience Video Source :YouTube screenshot "Ai-Shiru" (indigo liquid) is used for Aizome. From 0:19 in the video, you can see how a pattern is made by rolling the cloth around the chopsticks and squeezing it with rubber. Next, the cloth is soaked in the Ai-Shiru for approximately 60 seconds. You can see this step at 1:53 in the video. The process of taking it out of the Ai-Shiru and exposing it to air for roughly 60 seconds is repeated several times. When the fabric is sufficiently dyed with the Ai-Shiru, it is rinsed and then ironed. And the handkerchief is completed! No two pieces are the same when made with Aizome. You can see the completed work at 1:44 in the video. Aizome Summary Photo： Aizome Aizome has a long history as one of Japan's traditional cultures. If you're interested in learning more about this beautiful culture, consider visiting one of the facilities listed above and trying an Aizome experience. Don't forget to check their business hours and details. For those unable to visit the facilities, be sure to watch the video to see what Aizome is all about! 【Tripadvisor】Ai-no-Yakata https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g1121420-d3531647-Reviews-Ai_no_Yakata-Aizumi_cho_Itano_gun_Tokushima_Prefecture_Shikoku.html

The Millennium Coral of Mugi, Tokushima via Video This video, titled "Mugi Diving: A Thousand-Year-Old Coral" (牟岐ダイビング　千年珊瑚), was uploaded by "Shimizu Akinori" (清水明徳). It introduces, as its name suggests, a thousand-year-old coral reef near Oshima Island in Tokushima. What you see in the video is the Millennium Coral, a coral reef in the inner bay of Oshima Island in Mugi, Tokushima. Oshima Island off the coast of Mugi, Tokushima is one of the most beautiful spots in Japan where many people visit for diving and snorkeling. The huge coral reef shown from the beginning of the video is called "Sennen Sango" (lit. "Thousand-Year Coral" or "Millennium Coral"). The Millennium Coral is a tree-shaped coral reef formed by the growth of porites lutea, a type of stony coral. Registered as a "Miraculous Heritage," the coral reef is estimated to have been growing for as long as 1,000 years. At 0:08 in the video, you can see a person actually diving underwater and swimming next to it, giving you a good idea of just how large it actually is. The sheer size of it is enough to amaze you. The Millennium Coral of Oshima Island in Mugi, Tokushima: A Coral Reef Formed by a Combination of Favorable Conditions Source :YouTube screenshot The Millennium Coral is the result of a combination of favorable conditions in nature. The warm currents of the Kuroshio Current come in from the coast, the island is not environmentally destructive, and it is located in an inner bay, which protects it from rough seas. The Millennium Coral is located at a depth of 23 meters. It measures approximately 9 meters tall and 30 meters round, and is also known as the "Underwater Christmas Tree" because of its shape. It is one of the largest and longest living coral reefs not only in Japan, but also in the world. Starfish – The Natural Enemy of the Millennium Coral Photo：Crown-of-thorns starfish In recent years, crown-of-thorns starfish have increased in number, eating away at the Millennium Coral. The town of Mugi has been working to protect the coral, and in 2015, December 7 was designated as Millennium Coral Day. At 1:10 in the video, you can see beautiful fish swimming around the Millennium Coral. The Millennium Coral is a symbol of Mugi, Tokushima. In addition to being a tourist attraction, the Millennium Coral also plays a role in purifying the ocean by absorbing carbon dioxide and producing oxygen, making it an indispensable part of the marine environment. Summary of the Millennium Coral of Oshima Island in Mugi, Tokushima There are many ways to get to Mugi, Tokushima, where the Millennium Coral is located: by air, by sea, or by express bus. From Tokushima City, it takes 1 hour and 20 minutes to reach by train via JR lines, and approximately 1 hour and 40 minutes to reach by car. There are also tours to the remote islands where visitors can enjoy a variety of experiences and delicious food. If you're a diver, be sure to visit the Millennium Coral in Mugi, Tokushima if you have the chance! We hope this video has given you an idea of just how beautiful the Millennium Coral is. Hopefully we can continue to protect this beautiful coral for years to come.

This video, titled "Soba Station Tour: Kitsune Udon (Takamatsu Station's Renrakusen Udon)" (【駅そば巡り】きつねうどん（高松駅の連絡船うどん）), was released by "Travel and Trains: Katsuhiko Hotta" (旅と鉄道・堀田勝彦). This video introduces the stand-up udon shop Renrakusen Udon at Takamatsu Station in Kagawa Prefecture. Kagawa Prefecture is famous for its udon noodles, and Renrakusen Udon (連絡船うどん) is a popular and famous restaurant at Takamatsu Station. In the video, you can see how the udon is eaten with a large piece of fried tofu.

Hidaka's Promotional Video This video, titled "Hidaka, Kochi Prefecture Promotional Video," introduces Hidaka in Takaoka County (高岡郡, Takaokagun), a little-known tourist site with beautiful scenery. Hidaka carries out a number of tourism promotions under "Ryoma Challenge" to reinvigorate the community. The village is home to hundreds of artistic landscapes and fascinating tourist spots. Hidaka stands around 16 km away from Kochi City, Kochi Prefecture, and is about 30 minutes away by car. This 4-minute clip encapsulates the vast wonders of Hidaka. Yes, such an attractive village exists in Kochi Prefecture! Please, enjoy the video. Recommended Tourist Sites Source :YouTube screenshot The Nagoya Sinking Bridge (名越屋沈下橋, Nagoya Chinkabashi), the tasteful bridge introduced at the beginning of the video, abridges the Niyodo River captured at 3:29 in the video. You'll get to enjoy photogenic scenery by getting a ride on a Yakatabune in the miraculous Niyodo River; the river with the cleanest water in Japan. The Niyodo River Cycling Course, Kusaka River Retention Basin (日下川調整池, Kusakagawa Choseichi) and the nature around Mt. Otaki (大滝山, Otakisan) are some of the most recommended tourist sites. The vast Hidaka is also abound with golf courses such as Green Feel Golf Club and Mt. Nishiki (錦山, Nishikiyama) Country Club. Hidaka hosts Cosmos Festival and a fireworks festival, so we recommend scheduling your vacation around the events. The Historical Sightseeing Spots of Hidaka Photo：Saruta Cave Tosaninomiya Omura Shrine (土佐二宮小村神社, Tosaninomiya Omurajinja), introduced from 0:35 in the video, stores Wooden Bosatsu Masks (木造菩薩面, Mokuzo Bosatsu Men), designated as an Important Cultural Property by the government, and Kondosokantachigoshirae・Tachimi (an ancient sword), a National Treasure. Botan Cedar (牡丹杉, Botansugi), planted in the shrine property, is said to have torched itself when there was something unusual in the village. Hidaka Washi Factory (ひだか和紙工場, Hidaka Washi Kojo), which produces a traditional local specialty of Hidaka, ‘Yakimonozukuri Mohei Kiln (茂平窯, Moheigama)’ in Mohei’s Village (茂平の里, Moheinosato), Ono Kuwa Factory (大野くわ製造処, Onokuwaseizoudokoro) and Hidaka Sake Brewer Hall (日高酒造ホール, Hidakashuzohoru) are places to visit! Exploring the Saruta Cave (猿田洞, Sarutado) introduced from 3:12 in the video is definitely an unforgettable experience as well! Dining in Hidaka Photo：Tea Plantation Introduced from 1:05 in the video, is Tosa Tea (土佐茶, Tosacha) of Kiriyama Tea Field (霧山茶園, Kiriyamachaen). Hojicha, made from tea leaves cultivated in a warm climate, is unbelievably delicious! The sweets using sugar tomatoes, Imokenpi, and Imo Chips, both a product of Imoya Kinjiro Hidaka Honten, are popular in Hidaka. In addition, Hidaka is famous for Omurice (Omelette rice). If you are visiting Omurice Street (オムライス街道, Omurice Kaido), be sure to enjoy the special Omurice lunch at "Mura Café Hidaka," a restaurant located inside Village Station Hidaka, Summary of Hidaka Hidaka is popular for its calm climate. Currently, its population is just below 5,000, but migrants have increased as of late. Many Onsen Ryokan (hot spring inns) and hotels are located in Hidaka, so you can enjoy luxurious tourist routes over the course of a few days. If you are interested in the tasteful scenery shown in the video, be sure to give Hidaka a visit! 【Tripadvisor】Hidaka https://www.tripadvisor.com/Tourism-g1121460-Hidaka_mura_Takaoka_gun_Kochi_Prefecture_Shikoku-Vacations.html

Dogo Onsen in Matsuyama, Ehime - A Popular Tourist Destination in Japan This video, titled "Beautiful Japan- Dogo Onsen, Matsuyama" ([美しき日本] 愛媛　松山市道後温泉), was produced by N.a. It introduces the public bathhouse, Dogo Onsen, which is said to be the oldest spa resort in Japan, as well as other famous sites in Matsuyama. The focus of the video is the historical public bathhouse Dogo Onsen, which earned three stars in the "Michelin Green Guide Japan" and is also the first public bathhouse in Japan designated an Important Cultural Property. The video does a great job at capturing the appeal of the destination that is even mentioned in ancient Japanese mythology. The History of Dogo Onsen Source :YouTube screenshot At Dogo Onsen, the legend of the white egret has been passed down for centuries; legend tells of an egret soaking its injured wings in the hot spring and being cured. The locals who watched observed the miracle tried the hot spring for themselves and discovered its healing powers. Dogo Onsen is mentioned in the ancient texts of the Nihon Shoki, Manyoshu, Iyokoku Fudoki, and the Tale of Genji. It is counted as one of the Three Ancient Springs, with the two others are being Arima Onsen and Shirahama Onsen, and has 3000 years of history. The public bathhouse at Dogo has a restroom and drinking the green tea and confectioneries is provided in the admission fee. Besides Natsume Soseki, Dogo Onsen was a favorite retreat of many notable people, including Masaoka Shiki, a famous poet/author, Prince Shotoku, Issa Kobayashi, Hirobumi Ito (the first prime minister of Japan), and Kyoshi Takahama. You can enjoy traveling back in time by watching the video that tells of the history of Dogo Onsen. Dogo Onsen's hot spring water is simple alkaline, and it's known as a beauty spring, making it a popular destination for female travelers. Water is pumped directly from the natural hot springs without being reheated or mixed with cold water for controlling the temperature, so you'll feel the non-diluted, refreshing effects of the hot spring almost immediately. The hot spring is said to be effective in treating neuralgia, rheumatism, gastrointestinal diseases, skin disease, gout and anemia. The Attraction of Dogo Onsen's Main Building Photo：Dogo Onsen The main building of Dogo Onsen is allegedly an inspiration to Hayao Miyazaki's blockbuster Spirited Away. The stunning exterior is a combination of four buildings that were repeatedly expanded and remodeled over a period of 125 years. Full-scale conservation repair work was executed in January 2019. It has three different day-visit baths, known as Sotoyu. The Dogo Onsen Annex: Asuka no Yu features a large resting hall using traditional Ehime handcrafts. The admission fee is 610 Yen (as of November 2019). Two other day-visit baths are in the Dogo Onsen Main Building and the Dogo Onsen Tsubaki no Yu. Four different admission plans provide visitors with varying levels of access in the Main Building, and an English pamphlet provided at the counter will help you understanding the differences. "Shinrokaku," a taiko drum in the main building's tower, is sounded three times a day. You can see it being struck at 1:04 in the video. The sound of Dogo's taiko drum is listed in the government-led project "100 Soundscapes of Japan." All of the guests look up at the tower when it is sounded, providing a picturesque scene. Be sure to take some pictures for your Instagram! Tourist Spots Around Dogo Onsen, Matsuyama Photo：Bocchan Train Dogo Onsen is 40-minute drive from Ehime Matsuyama Airport by limousine bus. From JR Dogo Onsen station, it's just a few minutes walking. You may be able to see the "Bocchan" train waiting at the station, a replica of a steam locomotive named after the Natsume Soseki novel "Bocchan". This old-fashioned train appears in the video at 0:30. Matsuyama castle is famous for cherry blossoms, and is one of only 12 castles that features a keep built prior to the Edo period (1603-1868). The Inland Sea and Matsuyama city can be seen from the keep. The castle is introduced at 0:41. Be sure to check it out! Summary of Dogo Onsen Photo：Matsuyama Castle There are many hotels and inns in the Dogo Onsen area, so you can enjoy a relaxing stay while going hot spring hopping. In recent years, Matsuyama has put efforts into art events to capture the attention of travelers looking for something new to experience, which makes the city a year-round destination in Ehime. The video tells of the long history and charms of Dogo Onsen. Perhaps you've come to understand what it is about Dogo onsen that made it loved by so many prominent historical figures. 【Official Website】Dōgo Onsen https://dogo.jp/en/ 【Official Website】Matsuyama City http://translate.google.co.jp/translate?hl=ja&sl=ja&tl=en&u=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.city.matsuyama.ehime.jp%2F

Introducing "Cat Paradise" in Aoshima, Ehime Prefecture "JG☆☆☆4K 愛媛 青島(十数人の住民と百匹のネコ） Ehime, Aoshima (10+ residents and 100+ cats)" produced by "JAPAN GEOGRAPHIC" is a sightseeing video introducing the charms of Aoshima, an island floating in the Seto Inland Sea. In this video, the many cats of Aoshima, Ehime Prefecture, located in Japan's Shikoku region, are filmed for over an hour. This is a must watch for cat lovers! See how many cats you can count while sightseeing at Aoshima's "Cat's Paradise." Sightseeing in Aoshima, Ehime Prefecture Photo：Aoshima Located in Nagahamacho, Ozu City, Ehime Prefecture, Aoshima is only 0.49 square kilometres, about the size of 10 Tokyo Domes. as of 2019, only three families with a total of six people live there. Aoshima, Ehime Prefecture, is also called "Nekojima" (Cat Island), and there are more than 200 cats on the island. A cat called “Dokin-chan”, which is particularly popular among the other felines, has had a photo book made about it, and it is loved by many fans. Around Aoshima, net fishing and single-line fishing are thriving, so you can enjoy gourmet seafood made with the freshest catches. In August, the historic festival "Aoshima Bon Odori," which is designated as an Ehime Prefecture Intangible Folk Cultural Property, is held, and it is very popular. Highlights of Aoshima's "Cat Paradise" Photo：Cats at Aoshima There are plenty of highlights in this hour long video! Hundreds of cats are seen throughout the video. As we said before, it's the perfect place for cat lovers. At 3:34 in the video, you can see several cats gathering near a docked ship, looking for some treats no doubt. At around 10:33 in the video, you can see cats playing with fish and at 20:41, we see a large number of cats gathering up to be fed by the islands visitors. Aoshima Shrine on the island is also home to cats. This can be seen at 31:09 in the video. You can see various things in the video, such as cats basking in the sun, and sometimes they even get into some quarrels. Try to find your favorite scene! How to Get to Aoshima Source :YouTube screenshot You can get to Aoshima by heading to Nagahama Port, a one-minute walk from JR Iyo Nagahama Station, and taking the local ferry. The only way to access Aoshima is the regular ferry which has a capacity of 34 people. The fare is 700 yen one way and 1360 yen round trip. (As of November 2019) The timetable is as follows: Departure from Nagahama at 8: 00/14: 30, and departure from Aoshima Port at 8: 45/16: 15 (* As of November 2019). Restrooms are located at the docking area, and there are also day trips to see Aoshima and its surroundings. The ferry may be canceled due to inclement weather, so if you don't want your trip to be interrupted, we recommend staying at a hotel in Nagahama, Ehime Prefecture and gathering information there. Please note that there are no accommodations or shops on the island. The Problem With the "Cat Paradise," Aoshima Most cats that live on Aoshima are strays, so many cats have not been fixed, and you can still see kittens, as you can see at 7:35 in the video. An increase in the number of cats and the deterioration of the environment are 2 of the island's major problems. Aoshima has a small population, and it's possible that ferries to the island may be stopped in the future. If there is no one left on the island, cat management and feeding problems may occur. Because of this, immediate action is required. When tourists travel to Aoshima by ferry, they must follow rules, such as cleaning up their garbage and feeding limits.