「三条仏壇」紹介動画について こちらの動画は「匠の手｜新潟県伝統的工芸品16品目」が公開した「【三条仏壇】匠の手【五十嵐 考宏】」です。 およそ1分半の動画で、手打ち金具師の手により三条仏壇の飾り金具が作られる様子が映し出されています。 三条仏壇とはどのような仏壇なのでしょうか？ 日本文化として世界に誇る、匠の手から生み出される伝統工芸「三条仏壇」についてご覧ください。 「仏都三条」新潟県三条地域の歴史 新潟県のほぼ中央に位置する三条地方。 ここは「仏都三条」と呼ばれるほど仏教文化が栄えた土地です。 その起源は、江戸時代中期には北陸随一とまで言われるほどの堂宇伽藍をもつ東別院が立てられたことに由来します。 大規模な寺院建立に際して、京都から仏師や宮大工、木工職人などさまざまな職人が招かれ、三条の職人も事業に参加しました。 こうして三条の地に浄土真宗が広まり、仏壇や仏具の生産が盛んに。 信濃川の水運にも恵まれ、原料輸送にも事欠かなかったことも大きな要因です。 地の利と、歴史、そして匠の技に裏打ちされ、正統的な宮殿造りと格調高い本漆塗りの金箔押し、そして飾り金具などの細工に定評があることから、三条仏壇は経済産業大臣より伝統的工芸品に指定されました。 三条仏壇の特徴 三条仏壇の作り方は複雑で、その特徴は以下の4点に集約されます。 ・木地は釘を一切使わないほぞ組による組み立て式で作られていること ・「枡組」や「肘木組」を使った本格的な宮殿造り ・数十種類のタガネを使い、飾り金具師の手打ち技法によって加工された手打ち金具 ・塗立（ぬりたて）、梨子地塗（なしじぬり）、木目出し塗といった塗装技術 動画では、飾り金具師の手仕事の工程が0:09よりご覧になれます。 金物町としての伝統工芸都市・新潟県三条市 新潟県の三条地域は、江戸時代から金属加工に特化した金物町としても有名で、その技術が仏壇にも余すところなく伝えられています。 芸術品、美術品の域にまで達した三条仏壇を生産する新潟県三条市は、ドラマ「下町ロケット」の舞台としても有名です。 金属加工産業が江戸時代から発達し、金物職人の技術は世界が認めるほど。 三条仏壇と同じく伝統工芸として、一枚の銅板だけを材料にして茶器や急須を作り出す燕槌起銅器があります。 新潟県三条市は江戸時代以来の伝統文化を今も受け継ぐ街なのですね。 伝統工芸を後世に引き継ぐための後進育成や文化継承にも力を入れており、日常的に金物文化の体験教室が開かれています。 三条仏壇紹介まとめ 新潟県三条市では街をあげてこの技術をもとにさまざまな商品を開発しています。 とくに調理器具やカトラリー、銀食器は有名で、三条の職人の技法を集めたおすすめの作品や伝統工芸品がたくさんあります。 自宅用に、また友人・知人へのプレゼントにもうってつけ。 お土産として手頃な値段の商品もあるので、新潟県三条市を訪れた際は、仏教文化が盛んな土地柄であることや、金物町としての伝統工芸品があることを思い出し、ぜひお土産屋さんを覗いてみてくださいね。

製造は手作業で。広島県熊野町で作られる熊野筆 こちらの動画は「伝統工芸 青山スクエア」が公開した「手技TEWAZA「熊野筆」Japan Kumano Writing Brush／伝統工芸 青山スクエア Japan traditional crafts Aoyama Square」です。 書道や化粧筆など、日本の文化と切っても切り離せない筆。 熊野筆と聞いて美容に関心のある人はピンと来たかもしれませんね。 整った毛先が洗顔中の顔の毛穴の汚れをとり、きめこまやかな肌にしてくれると口コミが広がったのを覚えている人もいるのではないでしょうか。 また、チークブラシをセットにした商品「筆の心」も人気がありおすすめです。 広島県熊野町で作られる熊野筆の歴史 熊野筆は広島県安芸郡熊野町で生産される伝統工芸品です。 その昔、江戸時代に広島藩の産業奨励により筆作りを各地で学んだ若者たちがいました。 村に戻り、彼らが村民に筆の作り方を伝えたのが熊野筆の始まりです。 現在、町ではおよそ2,500名の方が手作業で熊野筆の生産に携わり、20名の伝統工芸士がいます。 熊野筆の歴史は挑戦の連続だったといっても過言ではありません。 戦後、日本各地の筆の生産地が筆作りをやめていくなか、熊野町は筆作りの技術を応用して、画筆や面相筆など、書筆以外の筆作りに取り組みました。 昭和30年代には、化粧品メーカーが化粧道具としての筆に着目し、熊野筆に白羽の矢があたります。 熊野筆で作られたファンデーションブラシはその品質の高さから国内外で評判に。 その成果や取り組みが認められ、昭和50年（1975年）には国の伝統的工芸品に指定されるにいたりました。 熊野筆の文化が受け継がれる企業 筆作りの文化が育まれた熊野町には、伝統工芸品として熊野筆を代表する企業「白鳳堂」があります。 白鳳堂は本社を熊野町に置いていますが、世界中からの観光客が訪れる京都にも店舗を構え、筆の文化を国内外に発信しています。 白鳳堂で取り扱っている化粧筆はギフトラッピングや名入れも可能で、プレゼントにもおすすめ。 そしてもうひとつ有名な筆工房に「竹宝堂」があります。 ファンデーションブラシをはじめとする化粧筆を専門に扱い、世界でもトップの化粧筆メーカーとして高い評価を得ている企業です。 熊野筆職人後継者問題への挑戦 熊野町で生産される熊野筆は、全国で生産される筆の8割を占めています。 しかし、ほかの伝統工芸と同じように、後継者への文化継承問題は熊野筆も例外ではありません。 筆作りの担い手を確保することが課題となっています。 というのも、交通網の発達から町の外へ働きに出る若者が増えたことや、筆作りには長く根気のいる手作業をするため、若者がやりたがらなくなったため。 このため、町や協同組合が熊野筆のPRや産業振興に尽力。 手作りの筆の良さに理解を示す人が着実に増えつつあります。 熊野筆紹介まとめ 動画では熊野筆がどのように作られるか紹介されています。 その職人技をとくとご覧ください。 伝統工芸である熊野筆を通して、日本の文化に思いを馳せてみるのもいいのではないでしょうか。

This Long-Established Candy Store Has Been Located in "Candy Alley" in Kawagoe, Saitama, for 100 Years. How to Make the "Kumiame Sakura Stick" by Tamariki Seika This video shows the making of candy at "Tamariki Seika" in Kawagoe, Saitama. Tamariki Seika has been making handmade candies for over 100 years. The shop is located in "Candy Alley" (Kashiya Yokocho) a popular tourist spot in Saitama Prefecture, and offers a wide variety of kumiame candy. Kumiame is a type of rolled candy that when cut shows a picture or face, such as Kintaro Ame. In the video, they make "Flower Kumiame Sakura." The candy which was as big as a log, was stretched and stretched, and at the end, a cherry blossom pattern can be seen in the cut section. Be sure to check out the video to see the 100 year old techniques in action! ◆Tamariki Seika Store Information◆ 【Address】350-0062 Saitama, Kawagoe, Motomachi, 2 Chome−７−7 【Access】A 15-minute walk from Hon-Kawagoe Station 【Avg. Price】¥200+ 【Hours】10:00-17:00 【Closures】Mondays 【Phone】049-222-1386 【Tabelog】Tamariki Seika https://tabelog.com/en/saitama/A1103/A110303/11005857/

Carving Vegetables into Chinese Bellflower and Pine Trees In this video, Oki, a sushi chef and vegetable sculptor based in Osaka, teaches us how to cut cucumbers for decoration. The two things he teaches us are balloon flower (Chinese bellflower) and pine trees." The Chinese bellflower (桔梗, "Kikyo" in Japanese) is shaped like a flower petal and can be topped with a variety of ingredients for a party or for entertaining guests. The pine trees look gorgeous, so they go great with platters and sashimi. Be sure to check out the awesome decorative cutting in the video!

Nishiki Market - The Kitchen of Kyoto! Introducing Nishiki Hirano's Fluffy Dashi-Maki Tamago Burger This video shows how they make dashi-maki tamago burgers at Nishiki Hirano in Nishiki Market. In the video, the artisan uses five frying pans to make dashi-maki tamago, and from 9:00 onwards, you can see the fluffy eggs being cooked to perfection. The dashi-maki tamago burgers that these turn into are simply amazing. You can try one at Nishiki Market, the "Kitchen of Kyoto," so if you're in Kyoto, be sure to stop by. ◆Nishiki Hirano Store Information◆ 【Address】489-1 Nakauoyacho, Nakagyo Ward, Kyoto, 600-8125 【Access】A 6-minute walk from Hankyu Karasuma Station / 329 meters from Karasuma Station 【Cost】¥398+ 【Hours】Restaurant 8:30-16:30 (L.O. 16:15) / Selling of side dishes 10:00-18:00 【Closures】Irregular 【Parking】None 【Phone】050-5596-2754 【Official Homepage】Nishiki Hirano - Kyoto Nishiki Market's Side Dish Speciality Shop https://nishiki-hirano.com/ 【Tabelog】Nishiki Hirano https://tabelog.com/en/kyoto/A2601/A260201/26007725/

This video, titled "AIDAprima Cruise Ship Construction & Christening in 4K by MK timelapse," was released by MK timelapse GmbH. The construction of Nagasaki's new flagship, AIDAprima, took place during the Hafengeburtstag birthday celebration in Hamburg on May 7, 2016. The cruise ship ordered by Mitsubishi Heavy Industries was named AIDAprima on the Elbe River in Poland. The ship is said to be the largest ever built in Japan and is based on the Mitsubishi Air Lubrication System (MALS), which reduces fuel consumption by using air bubbles to reduce drag.

伝統工芸「墨流し」とは？ IKIDANE NIPPONが制作した「Incredible Craftsmanship: Sumi Nagashi」は日本の文化である伝統工芸の一つの「墨流し」についてのプロモーション動画です。 この記事では、和の文化を支えている伝統工芸「墨流し」の歴史や文化、魅力について説明をしていきます。 墨流しの歴史はおおよそ800年以上！ 墨流しの歴史は、約800年前の平安時代からとされています。 手漉き和紙に墨や絵の具を用いて染料等で模様を描いていくのです。 波紋と筆、そして扇子によって浮かび上がる模様はその時、その時で全く違うものになります。 この技法で生まれる模様は再現性のない、唯一無二のものとなるため、非常に種類に富んでいて、特別感のある仕上がりとなります。 日本の文化として世界的にも人気の理由となっています。 現在では、この匠の技とも言える墨流しをすることが出来る職人の方は、日本でも片手で数えるほどしか居ないそうです。 越前和紙の生産地であり墨流しを体験出来る福井県！ 数少ない墨流しの職人の中でも代表的な人物が無形文化財の技術保持者に認定された福田忠雄さんです。 福井県には、何とその伝統工芸士の福田忠雄さんから実際に手ほどきを受けながら墨流しを体験出来ます。 申し込みはインターネットからでも可能ですので、ぜひ申し込んでみてはいかがでしょうか？ 波紋によって染められ、彩られる世界が出来上がる様子は、非常に実りのある体験となること請け合いでしょう。 伝統工芸「墨流し」の歴史と文化のまとめ 日本が世界へと誇れる文化としても名高い墨流し。 福井県に足を運べば、作業風景から体験までを実際に誰でも可能です。 ぜひ福井県へ墨流し体験に足を運んで見てはいかがでしょうか？

Introducing Inkan Carving This video, titled "「TOKYO匠の技」技能継承動画「印章彫刻熟練技能編」," was created by "東京都 Tokyo Metropolitan Government." There are many "craftsmen" in all sorts of fields in Japan. Inkan makers, too, are known as craftsmen. The inkans carved by these craftsmen, using skills that were passed down to them and refined over the years, are truly works of art. This article will introduce the craft of carving inkan alongside the video. What Is Inkan Carving? Source :YouTube screenshot Inkan carving is the art of making the inkan used by companies and people every day in Japan. Inkan craftsmen are known as "insho chokoku ginoshi" (印章彫刻技能士), which roughly translates to "Seal Carving Technician." There is a Grade 1 and Grade 2 ranking for this titled. The certification exam is held once a year. Applicants are required to pass both an academic and practical examination before they are officially certified. In order to make a living as a craftsman, it's necessary to continuously accumulate knowledge about inkan. Although machine carving is now the norm, hand-carved inkan are still bought and sold today. In the video, the Grade 1-ranked Seal Carving Technician Tomonari Sanada (眞田智成) shows us how an inkan is made. If you’re interested in Japan’s inkan culture, definitely check out the video. Below is an overview of the video. Introduction of the carving tools and materials used for the inkan ↓ The process of creating an inkan ↓ Making a seal with the newly-crafted inkan This process can be viewed from 1:03 in the video. Through this nearly 40 minute video, you'll gain an appreciation for the skills of the inkan craftsmen. Summary of Inkan Carving Source :YouTube screenshot The world of inkan carving has many unseen depths and layers, and a high level of skill is required of the craftsmen. This video is a great introduction to the world of inkan carving. When visiting Japan, besides enjoying the gorgeous scenery and tasting delicious food such as sushi, why not experience Japanese culture and traditional crafts as well? Besides inkan, there are many other traditional crafts in Japan, giving you plenty of things to discover. In addition, hanko and inkan are popular souvenirs for foreigners as well. These are easily available through online stores, so consider checking them out!

This video, titled "Kunio Kobayashi Bonsai demonstration," was released by Bonsai Empire (盆栽エンパイア). In this video, you can see the performance of Kunio Kobayashi, a bonsai master, at a bonsai event in Italy. Mr. Kunio Kobayashi has built a bonsai museum in Japan and has been promoting bonsai around the world. The video shows him impressing the people of Italy with his techniques.

Murakami Kibori Lacquerware - A Traditional Craft of Niigata Prefecture This video, titled "手技TEWAZA「村上木彫堆朱」Murakami Kibori Lacquerware／伝統工芸 青山スクエア Japan traditional crafts Aoyama Square," was released by "Traditional Crafts Aoyama Square." Murakami Kibori Lacquerware (Murakami Kibori Tsuishu), introduced in the video, is a general term for six types of carving, including tsuishu, tsuikoku, and shumarinuri, and it is a traditional craft of the Murakami region of Niigata Prefecture, which has been widely known as a natural lacquer production area since the Heian period (794-1185). Murakami Kibori Lacquerware was introduced by a lacquer maker in Kyoto at the beginning of the 15th century as a technique for painting lacquer on wood carvings. This was done in imitation of Chinese tsuishu (lacquerware), and the technique was introduced to the Murakami region after a temple was built there. The technique was first learned by the carpenters who built the temple, after which it was was passed on to samurai duringEdo period (1603-1868), then to the townspeople, and finally to present day Japan. In this article, we'll go over Murakami Kibori Lacquerware, a traditional lacquer technique of Niigata prefecture. The Process of Making Murakami Kibori Lacquerware Source :YouTube screenshot Along with the video, we'll be introducing some of the steps in the 18 to 20 step process that craftsmen use to make Murakami Kibori Lacquerware by hand. 1. Sketching (0:40~) This serves as a guide for engraving and is drawn directly on the wooden plate. Drawing with a brush that can express stronger and weaker lines is fundamental to the process. 2. Carving (0:47~) Wood carving is performed by using a chisel called an "Urajiro" on the sketch drawn in step 1. There are two types of carvings, the two-dimensional Shishiai-bori and three-dimensional Hikisage-bori. In the video, the craftsman explains that the most important thing is to carve the wood as though it were a living thing, making the most of the different grains of each tree. 3. Sanding (1:18~) This is the process of sanding the roughness of the blade marks with sandpaper (in the old days, horsetail was used) to give roundness and softness to the carving. This makes the work even more three-dimensional. 4. Hardening This involves adding a small amount of red husks to raw lacquer and using a brush to soak the entire wood with lacquer. This is also an important step because it is done to solidify the foundation of making a durable Tsuishu. Source :YouTube screenshot 5. Smoothing (1:29) In the important undercoating process to make durable lacquerware, raw lacquer and polishing powder are mixed and applied 2-3 times to the plain areas without engravings. 6. Polishing The process of water-polishing the coated surface using an imperial whetstone. This is done with applying rust lacquer and is repeated 2-3 times and the lacquerware is allowed to dry for at least a few days after the rust lacquering process. 7. Middle Coating (1:40~) The process of dabbing on lacquer on with a pad or fingertip and then finishing painting with a brush so that the engraved pattern is not filled with lacquer. Generally, oil-free refined lacquer is used for this. 8. Polishing the Middle Coating It is a process of carefully water-sanding the surface with a fine-grained natural stone whetstone called Murakami whetstone or a water file. 9. Top Coating (2:06~) Brightly colored vermilion lacquer is dabbed on with a pad or fingertip and finished painting using a brush so as not to fill the carved patterns similar to the intermediate coat. Source :YouTube screenshot 10. Matt Finishing (2:23~) An important process for polishing the top-coated glossy surface with charcoal or polishing powder evenly with water to make it a deep and calm-looking product. 11. Engraving (2:44~) The designs are carved once more. This fine carving is made to supplement the earlier wood carving with a fine-pointed triangular chisel. Expressions such as leaf veins, feathers, and mountain surfaces are re-engraved. 12. Finishing (3:06~) This step involves adding a small amount of red iron oxide to high-quality raw lacquer and rubbing it with a brush over the entire vessel. The matte surface is moist and firm, and this completes the production process of Murakami Kibori Tsuishu. The beautiful, finished product, like a work of art, can be seen from 3:23 in the video. These unique techniques have been designated Intangible Cultural Properties of Niigata Prefecture and Murakami Kibori Lacquerware was designated a National Traditional Craft. Summary of Murakami Kibori Lacquerware, A Traditional Welcome Gift of Niigata Prefecture Source :YouTube screenshot Murakami Kibori Lacquerware, a traditional craft that has been handed down since the Heian period, includes products such as jubako (stacked boxes), sake cups, tea ware, flower ware, confectionery ware, sake ware, etc. that are all great for celebrations, souvenirs, and gifts. Murakami Kibori Lacquerware is a testament to the living history of Japan, through which you can enjoy the techniques that craftsmen have refined and passed down since ancient times. 【Official Website】Murakami Kibori Lacquerware | Traditional Crafts | Traditional Crafts Aoyama Square https://kougeihin.jp/en/craft/0509/

The Approach to Sake Brewing at Tokyo Port Brewery, a Free and Challenging Brewery in Tokyo's Minato Ward This video is a short documentary by Yoshimi Terasawa, who, in 2011, revived a brewery that had gone out of business in 1911. It has attracted attention for its free and challenging sake brewing, taking advantage of a once-lost tradition. Edo Kaijo is a sake made in Tokyo's Minato Ward. Be sure to give it a try. 【Official Homepage】Tokyo Port Brewery http://tokyoportbrewery.wkmty.com/

The Unaju of Unazen in Azumabashi This video shows the eel dishes of Unazen. Unazen has been open for more than 30 years in Azumabashi, near Tokyo Sky Tree, and has been run by a husband and wife team. There is often a line of people waiting to enter the restaurant. Unazen's unaju is made to order, so you can get freshly cooked eel that was live until your order was placed. Enjoy experiencing freshly cut and freshly cooked eel! ◆Unazen Store Information◆ 【Address】東京都墨田区吾妻橋3-6-18 【Access】A 7-minute walk from Asakusa Station off the Tobu Isesaki Line and Tokyo Metro Ginza Line / A 1-minute walk from Honjo-Azumabashi Station off the Toei Asakusa Line (exit A4) 【Avg. Cost】¥3600+ 【Hours】Tuesday - Friday 11:00-18:00 / Saturday - Sunday 11:00-16:00, or until sold out 【Closures】Mondays. If Monday is a public holiday then the following day is also closed. 【Parking】None 【Phone】03-3624-0475 【Tabelog】Unazen (鰻禅) https://tabelog.com/en/tokyo/A1312/A131203/13058979/

This video, titled "[HD] C-1 ド派手な記念塗装機 新田原基地航空祭 2018 / JASDF Nyutabaru Air Festa 2018 - C-1 Demo Flight," was released by "j-sky on YouTube." The C-1 transport aircraft is the first domestically produced post-war military transport aircraft deployed by the JASDF. Japan's defeat in the war sealed off the technology for developing aviation, but the ban was finally lifted in the 1970's and the first jet-powered transport aircraft made its debut. The C-1 features a loading system that allows the vehicle to be loaded quickly and, with metal rods on the floor, it can transport up to 36 patients at a time. The aircraft has been dispatched to many disasters and is a reassuring tool in the event of a recent spate of disasters and epidemics. Check out the awesome kabuki paint job in the video!

This video, titled "スクランブル発進！/JASDF F-4EJ(mod) Scramble Demo.," was released by "Deckay_F." This is a demo video of the F-4EJ scramble takeoff. On cue, a JASDF pilot runs up to the aircraft and prepares it for takeoff with quick movements. The F4 Phantom has been in use around the world for decades and is a familiar aircraft among aviation fans. Scrambling is the act of quickly mobilizing military aircrafts to intercept immediate threats. The Japanese Air Self-Defense Force is constantly training to keep Japan's skies safe.

A Single Bamboo Branch Turned Into Various Garnishes This video teaches you how to cut pine tree and shrimp decorations using bamboo leaves. There are several types of bamboo cutting, such as the ken-zasa, which is placed vertically between dishes, the shiki-zasa, which is placed underneath the food, kesho-zasa, which is placed on top of the food, and the kazari-mono, which is larger than those used for food. Check out the video to learn the steps for cutting pine tree and shrimp decorations from a single bamboo leaf! It's a great way to entertain guests when they come over, or to add a touch of class to your dishes on New Year's, etc.

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

Introducing the Tatami Craftsmen of Matsuya Tatami Shop! This video, titled "Nippon Handicraft Encyclopedia - Matsuya Tatami Shop" (ニッポン手仕事図鑑 × 松屋畳店), was released by "Nippon Handicraft Encyclopedia" (ニッポン手仕事図鑑). The video shows the craftsmen of Matsuya Tatami Shop, a long-established tatami store with a long history dating back to the Genroku Period, reupholstering tatami mats. The craftsmen that are introduced in the video are Tomoki Okawa, an 11th generation craftsman of Matsuya Tatami Shop in Kiryu City, Gunma Prefecture, and his father, Masao Okawa, the 10th generation craftsman of the establishment. You can see Tomoki Okawa from 0:54 and Masao Okawa from 2:15 in the video. What Are Japan's Tatami Mats? Photo：The main material of tatami, Igusa The tatami mat is a traditional flooring in Japan and its main material is rush which is grown by farmers. Tatami craftsmen knit together domestic, high-quality rush grass using methods that have been handed down since ancient times, and after laying it on a board, sew on the edges. The size of Japanese tatami mats is fixed, and the tatami mats created by the craftsmen fit perfectly on the floor of Japanese-style rooms like puzzle pieces. Among those with skills like the craftsmen of Matsuya Tatami Shop introduced in the video, some craftsmen are qualified as First-Class Tatami Technicians. If you want to change out your Japanese tatami mats, it's best to leave the whole process of tatami mat construction to craftsmanship professionals, such as Matsuya Tatami Shop introduced in the video. A Look at the Effects and Benefits of Japanese Tatami Mats Source :YouTube screenshot The effects and benefits of Japanese tatami mats include antibacterial properties, air purification, heat insulation, and humidity management. The fact that tatami, which is cool in summer and warm in winter, has been used since ancient times is a testament to the wisdom of the Japanese people. Also, the Japanese tatami mat has moderate elasticity and so it can be expected to absorb sounds or vibrations. Furthermore, Japanese tatami mats are made from naturally derived ingredients, so it also provides a soothing effect similar to the outdoors. Another good thing about tatami mats is that if you're careful when cleaning them and take proper care of them, they can be used for a long time. Get Acquainted With Japanese Tatami Source :YouTube screenshot For those who don't have a Japanese-style room, we recommend trying some handicrafts made out of tatami to get an idea of what it's like. Japanese tatami accessories, such as tatami book covers and card cases seen at 9:41 of the video, are sold on the internet for reasonable prices. Summary of Matsuya Tatami Shop Source :YouTube screenshot The video showcases the allure of traditional Japanese tatami while introducing Matsuya Tatami Shop. Many years have passed since the prosperous days of traditional Japanese tatami culture, and in recent years, the number of houses without Japanese-style rooms is increasing. That being said, recently, Japanese-style rooms with tatami mats are being re-evaluated. If you're planning on building a house, consider using tatami mats that have a wide range of benefits!

This video, titled "Unveiling of the New 145th Anniversary Drapes｜A Collaboration Between Meijiza and TeamLab" (145周年新緞帳を披露 明治座、チームラボとコラボ), was released by "KyodoNews." Meijiza, introduced in this video, is a theater located in Chuo City, Tokyo, and is the longest established theater in Tokyo. To celebrate Meijiza's 145th anniversary, they held a preview of their new drapes in April 2019, in collaboration with digital art collective TeamLab. The drapes are 7 meters long and 20 meters wide, and projections of the streets of Nihonbashi and the activities of its people are shown through projection mapping.

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

A Look at the Polishing Techniques Used for Japanese Swords This video, titled "日本刀の研磨 手入れ 本阿弥流 Polishing katana Japanese sword," was released by " JAPAN STUDY 日本研究." Craftsmen who polish swords for a living are called "togishi" (研師) in Japanese. Among these craftsmen, the Hon'ami school shown in the video is a professional sword polishing school that has been around since the Nanboku-cho Period (1336-1392 A.D.). At 12:21 in the video, a stunning view of "Kanamori Masamune," a famous dagger, is introduced. The History and Techniques of Japanese Sword Polishing Source :YouTube screenshot Sword polishing has a long history in Japan and was already being practiced when chokuto (直刀, Japanese straight swords) were still being used. The Hon'ami family, who served Ashikaga Takauji during the Nanboku-cho Period, later established sword polishing and sword appraisal methods. When a sharpener receives a request for sword polishing, he first observes the sword for about a week to visualize the precise polishing. The sword polishing process incorporates a unique technical system. When polishing a sword, it is polished under the assumption that it will be used to cut down enemies, but it is also important to sharpen it in a way that brings out the beauty of the sword, so that the base metal and the hamon (刃文, blade pattern) can be seen clearly. The Sword Polishing Techniques in the Video Source :YouTube screenshot The person introduced at 1:00 in the video is Koshu Hon'ami, a living national treasure of the Hon'ami family. He uses whetstones to carefully polish Japanese swords. There are several types of sword polishers, including Binsuido, Kaiseido, Nagurado, Koma-Nagurado, Uchigumorihado, and Uchigumorijido. The sword is finely polished after being given a rough polish, and then adjusted through finishing polishes. A whetstone called "Narutaki" (鳴滝) is used to polish the surface of the blade, and various secret techniques are used when polishing the swords. There are many different polishes performed when polishing Japanese swords and many of these can be seen in the video. Sharpening the tip of the sword is called “narume” (ナルメ). It's important to finish the narume polishing carefully while protecting the blade of the sword. Summary of Japan’s Sword Polishing Techniques Source :YouTube screenshot Today, there are approximately 50 sword polishing professionals in Japan. There is no set qualification system for sword polishing, but in order to become a swordsmith or a sharpener, one must work under a master or attend a class to acquire advanced skills. Many people around the world are fascinated by Japan's unique swords. In order to maintain the brilliance of the swords, the skills of the sword polishers shown in this video are essential.

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

About the video on “FLEXIE.” The title of the video is "[Huge impact!] MOL Next-generation Car Carrier FLEXIE Series (Digest)” created by “MOL channel.” This video introduces viewers to the next-generation car carrier vessel developed by Mitsui O.S.K Lines. Using the latest technology, this car carrier ship has high loading efficiency, high propulsive efficiency and high performance. Take a look at the video to see how cool the ship design is! This article will discuss the next-generation car carrier ship “FLEXIE.” What is "FLEXIE", the next generation car carrier ship? Source of photo :YouTube screenshot What you see in the video is the next-generation car carrier ship FLEXIE. FLEXIE is operated by Mitsui O.S.K. Lines, and carries cars and construction equipment overseas. As you can see in the video at 0:08, the car carrier transportation service “MOL ACE” was established in 2015 to expand their business internationally. The “FLEXIE series” gained an excellent reputation based on its unprecedented innovations. In 1965, MOL’s very first car carrier ship “Oppama Maru” was commissioned. Oppama Maru was the first car carrier ship in Japan at the time. Since then, car carrier ships have advanced over the years and eventually the next-generation car carrier ship series FLEXIE was born. Using the latest technology, FLEXIE allows for the transport of various different kinds of vehicles such as trucks and trailers. Please watch the video starting from 0:38 to learn more about the history of MOL. The next-generation car carrier ship FLEXIE received a Good Design Award in 2018. MOL’s FLEXIE won the award, making it the first winner from the shipping industry in over 9 years. The full length of FLEXIE is 199.95 meters (~650 ft) and the total width is 32.2 meters (~105.5 ft). The ship also boasts a capacity of 6,800 units (standard passenger vehicles). Currently, there a 4 vessels in operation. Features of next-generation car carrier ship FLEXIE Source of photo :YouTube screenshot Features of next-generation car carrier ship FLEXIE include the use of the latest load efficiency increasing technology as well as propulsion efficiency increasing technology. Increasing the number of lift-able decks (floors and ceilings can be raised and lowered) increases the number of decks to 14 layers. FLEXIE is completely strengthened, and as a result, a bulkhead-less structure can be implemented, greatly reducing the usage of the ships partitions (bulkhead). With this new structure, load efficiency is improved 6.25%. Various kinds of vehicles can be loaded on the vessel as well, as the load capacity of the ramp-way is 150 tons. To see how cars are loaded using this latest technology, please take a look at the video starting from 1:12. Source of photo :YouTube screenshot As shown in the video from 2:16, MOL worked on FLEXIE to create a Panamax-type of ship to reduce wind resistance (maximum size Panamax-type ships are able to cross the Panama Canal connecting North and South America). By using the latest propellers, water flow is optimized and increases propulsion efficiency. FLEXIE also cuts CO2 emissions by 13.7% by implementing the latest energy-saving technology. FLEXIE can generate power using a solar panel system and use the solar power when the ship is at anchor to cut emissions to ZERO. As you can see from 3:03, FLEXIE uses technologies such as AR and IoT to support steering and adhere to safety regulations. There's also a sensor that detects any defects and performs maintenance before any trouble occurs. An overview of the next-generation car carrier ship FLEXIE Soruce of photo :YouTube screenshot The video “MOL Next-generation Car Carrier FLEXIE Series (Digest)” created by “MOL Channel” introduces viewers to the next-generation car carrier ship FLEXIE. FLEXIE is a high performance car carrier ship using the latest technology. You can see the latest AR steering support technology in the video. The high performance car carrier ship revolutionizing the ship industry has set sail! 【Official Website】Mitsui O.S.K. Lines, Ltd. https://www.mol.co.jp/en/index.html

What is Mino Handmade Washi, a Traditional Craft of Mino City, Gifu Prefecture? Video introduction of the production process This video, titled "Paper Making at the Mino Washi Studio "Corsoyard" (美濃手漉き和紙工房Corsoyardの紙づくり「本美濃紙」), was created by "Handmadepaper Corsoyard." It introduces the process of making handmade Mino Washi paper. Making traditional Mino Washi involves a series of complicated processes which you can learn more about in this introductory video. The Mino Handmade Paper Co-operative (美濃和紙協同組合) and Mino Washi Preservation Society (美濃和紙保存会) have successfully preserved the traditional Japanese craft of Mino Washi throughout the years. Together with Sekishu-banshi (石州半紙) and Hosokawashi (細川紙), Mino Washi (Honminoshi) was registered as an Intangible Cultural Heritage in Japan in 2014. How Mino Washi is Made Source :YouTube screenshot As you can see from 0:08 in the video, Mino Washi is made from the highest quality mulberry called kouzo (楮), a special breed specifically used for making Mino Washi, using traditional Japanese techniques. The first step to making Mino Washi involves soaking the paper mulberry overnight in water and washing away any impurities in a process called "Mizusarashi" (水晒し). The paper mulberry may also then be removed from the water and laid out on the ground, being exposed to the sunlight in a process called "Agesarashi" (あげ晒し). From 5:56 in the video, you can see the mulberry plant material being boiled in a process called "Shajuku" (煮熟) after which the material is pounded. Traditionally, potassium bicarbonate extracted from wood ash was used during the boiling process. However these days, sodium carbonate, sodium bicarbonate or sodium hydroxide are commonly used, depending on the type of material being used. The fibrous material is then poured into a vessel called a "Sukifune" which the craftsmen can then use to create the Mino Washi paper. The fibers can be easily broken down due to removal of dirt and impurities in the previous steps. From 30:57 in the video, you can see the large sheets of washi paper being taken outdoors to dry in the sun. As there are many important steps and rules to follow in order to make Mino Washi, it is essential that all of the craftsmen are highly skilled. There are currently only five craftsmen, members of the Mino Washi Preservation Society, who are able to make Mino Washi using traditional techniques. Where to Purchase Mino Washi Source :YouTube screenshot There are many stores and workshops in the Mino area of Gifu prefecture where you can buy handmade Mino Washi paper. The natural materials and traditional techniques together produce paper that has a beautiful, transparent finish characteristic of Mino Washi. Mino Washi paper is often used to make Japanese sliding doors called "Fusuma" (襖) and "Shoji" (障子). Recently, Mino Washi is gaining in popularity and you can now find a variety of items made from Mino Washi, such as "Gifu Uchiwa Fans" or "Goshuincho," books used to collect shuin stamps at shrines and temples. Accessories or origami made from Mino Washi also make great gifts! Many of these traditional craft goods can be purchased for a reasonable price so be sure to check out what's available! Mino Washi products can be purchased online as well as at stores and workshops in Gifu prefecture. Summary of Mino Washi Paper - A Traditional Craft of Japan Source :YouTube screenshot We hope you enjoyed watching this introductory video outlining the complicated processes involved in making the traditional Mino Washi paper of Mino, Gifu. Mino Washi is handmade paper of the highest quality and has even been registered as an Intangible Cultural Heritage of Japan. If you're traveling to Gifu, an area which famous for the World Heritage Site Shirakawa-go (白川郷), be sure to check out the beautiful Mino Washi items on sale!

伝統工芸「京指物」紹介動画について こちらの動画は「伝統工芸 青山スクエア」が公開した「手技TEWAZA「京指物」kyo-sahimono joinery／伝統工芸 青山スクエア Japan traditional crafts Aoyama Square」です。 多くの観光客が訪れる京都には京指物と呼ばれる伝統工芸があります。 京都観光を楽しむ方は是非チェックしてください。 京指物とは一体どのように作られるのか 1つの京指物ができるまでにいくつもの制作工程があります。 動画をご覧になれば素材選びから完成までのイメージを掴めるのではないでしょうか。 まずは素材となる木を乾燥させ、荒木取と呼ばれる木の余分な部分を切り落とす工程が行われます。 続いてに木を矯正・荒削りして状態を整えたら仕口ホゾ接ぎと呼ばれる工程に移ります。 微調整しながら組み立てていくのがポイントです。 加工された部分に接着剤を塗って接合した後、平鉋(ひらがんな)で滑らかさや丸みを出す仕上削りが行われます。 その後、表面を研磨する仕上加工と呼ばれる工程で木の特長を引き出します。 最後は文様などを付ける加飾加工を行えば京指物のできあがりです。 気になる京指物の作品 京指物は茶道具をはじめ、桐箱や米櫃、調味料入れ、おちょこなどがあります。 通販サイトでは、いろいろな京指物が販売されているので、きっとお気に入りの作品が見つかるでしょう。 京指物紹介まとめ 京都は多くの観光客で賑わっており、日本の伝統工芸や歴史などを勉強するなら一度は訪れたい場所です。 今回紹介した動画をきっかけに日本の伝統工芸や京都について興味を持ってもらえれば幸いです。