Tourism Expo Japan 2022 is on! It's been two years since Cool Japan Video released its first video, and this will be our first coverage of the event! We will continue to publish articles about Cool Japan Video staff members who have actually visited Japan and provided first-hand accounts of their experiences. The first article in this series covers Tourism Expo Japan, which was held at Tokyo Big Sight for four days from September 22, 2022 (two days open to the public, from September 24 to 25)! The last time the event was held in Tokyo in 2018, a total of 200,000 people visited the big event over four days. This Tourism Expo Japan is one of the world's largest travel festivals and was held in Tokyo for the first time in four years. The exhibition is designed to bring various municipalities and companies a new form of travel that has been greatly changed by the Corona Transit. There were also many new styles of travel, such as VR experiences that make it seem as if you have actually visited the destination. With the convergence of the coronas in sight, the first and second days of the Japan Travel event were a great success. With the convergence of the coronas in sight, the first and second days of the Japan Travel event were a great success. Tourism Expo Japan 2022 - Photos from the First Day of the Expo Here are some photos from the first day, Thursday, September 22, 2022. The interview will be featured again later in this article, so stay tuned! Information has also been added for Friday, September 23, 2022. Photo：Japan Sake Brewery Tourism Promotion Council Photo：Maritime Tourism Promotion Photo：Ibaraki/Tochigi/Gunma/Kusatsu Onsen Photo：National Parks in Japan/Haku Japan: National Parks Project Photo：Tokyo Chamber of Commerce and Industry Photo：Tohoku Tourism Promotion Organization / East Japan Railway Company Photo：Kyoto of the sea/ Kyoto of tea/ Kyoto of the forest/ Another Kyoto/ Nishiyama, Kyoto "Bamboo Village, Otokuni Photo：Fukui Prefectural Tourism Federation Photo：VISIT JAPAN Travel & MICE Mart Lastly, ... To our surprise, former Prime Minister Suga also visited on that day! Tourism Expo Japan 2022, Day 2 The second day of Tourism Expo Japan was another great success. It will open to the public on the third day, Saturday, September 24, 2022, so here's a rundown of all the highlights for everyone to enjoy! First, booths of prefectures and local governments from all over Japan. Various booths will be lined up from Hokkaido in the north to Okinawa in the south. It introduces recommended sights, top sights and gourmet foods, so it will help you decide what to plan for when you actually visit on your trip! At the Okinawa Prefecture booth, visitors were given information on sightseeing spots along with information from various remote islands. You can also learn about the history of Okinawa. The Kyushu booth features seven prefectures: Fukuoka/Saga/Nagasaki/Kumamoto/Oita/Miyazaki/Kagoshima! This day, September 23, 2022, marked the anniversary of the opening of the West Kyushu Shinkansen line. Of the 143-kilometer Shinkansen project between Hakata and Nagasaki Stations, 66 kilometers between Takeo Onsen and Nagasaki Stations has been opened. At the Shikoku booth, Kochi, Ehime, Kagawa, and Tokushima prefectures You will find a wide variety of natural activities and attractions. Hida Takayama, Matsumoto City, Kanazawa City, etc. in Hokuriku, Hida, and Shinshu 3 star road trip! You can also sample Shirakawa-go Cider, a local drink. Check out the booths where you can sample sake and other local beverages. Many of them have limited hours, so you need to check in advance. At the Ishikawa booth, visitors can compare three types of Ishikawa sake. I would have wanted to drink too if I wasn't working... The Hokuriku-Hida-Shinshu 3-star road trip includes a tasting of Shirakawa-go cider, a local drink. There are also several booths where you can try your luck at the gacha-gacha and raffle drawings. At the booth of the Eastern Kochi Tourism Council, visitors can win a stuffed yellowtail, a specialty of Kochi Prefecture, in the "Buri Lottery. You can't go wrong, so why not give it a try? The Japanese Heritage booth had a giant rumble machine that will be open to the public on September 24 and 25. Please visit and see what you can win. Experience booths and event booths that are a little bit different and can only be enjoyed here. You can actually enjoy the footbath! Why don't you try to heal your tired body in a hot spring? The history of life in Hokkaido is recreated. Actual seats from the Anpanman train running in Shikoku are on display. You can even sit down and have your picture taken! Take a great photo and feel like an astronaut! Yukimura Sanada's armor and ninja welcome you. This booth is a must-see for foreigners. There is also the World Scallop Fishing Championships: how many scallops can you catch in two minutes! If you can get the gold bars out of the box, you get a prize! I'd love to travel all over Japan in one of these campers! On the Overseas floor, you can also see booths from around the world. You will feel like you are on a round-the-world trip if you visit each booth. South Africa's colorful booth stood out in the large venue. In Malta, the holy land of cat lovers, of course, cats will welcome you! The Egyptian booth was so authentic, with its objects and costumes, I felt like I was actually visiting Egypt! There's so much more to see and do! Why not visit Tokyo Big Sight this weekend and find your favorite booth? On September 22, 2022, Prime Minister Kishida announced a policy of eliminating the cap on the number of people entering the country, allowing free personal travel, and waiving visa requirements for short-term stays, effective October 11, 2022, over waterfront measures for the new corona. We believe that the recovery of the tourism industry is another step closer to the after Corona. Tourism Expo Japan 2022 Details Date: September 22-25, 2022 (open to the public on September 24-25) Venue: Tokyo Big Sight Address: 3-11-1 Ariake, Koto-ku, Tokyo 135-0063, Japan Admission: 1300 yen at the door, 1000 yen in advance By train: Approx. 3 minutes walk from Tokyo Big Sight Station on the Rinkai Line, approx. 7 minutes walk from Kokusai Tenjijo Station / Approx. 3 minutes walk from Tokyo Big Sight Station on the Yurikamome Line Official website:https://www.t-expo.jp/public

島根県出雲大社紹介動画について こちらの動画は「しまねっこCH」が公開した「Izumo Taisha Grand Shrine」です。 島根を観光するなら出雲大社は絶対に外せない！日本の古き良き文化を再認識できるおすすめ観光スポットです！ こちらの記事では、島根県の王道観光スポット、縁結びで有名な出雲大社について紹介致します。 また、出雲大社周辺へのアクセスや駐車場情報も合わせて紹介させて頂きますので要チェックです。 島根県出雲大社とは 出雲大社とは、正しくは「いずものおおやしろ」と読み、島根県出雲市にある縁結びで有名で、島根以外にも全国から参拝客や観光客が訪れる神社です。 八雲山を背にするように建っており、その歴史は、日本最古の歴史書である古事記にも創建の記載があり、数千年を超えることがわかります。 主祭神は「大国主大神（おおくにぬしのおおかみ）」で、縁結びの神様と言われています。 島根県出雲大社は日本唯一の神在月 日本は通常旧暦の10月を「神無月」と呼びますが、島根県の出雲地方では日本で唯一「神在月」と呼びます。 これは、全国の神様が旧暦の10月に島根県の出雲大社に集まるため、そのほかの地域では神様が居なくなるからという説があります。 「神在月」をより実感することが出来るイベントとして、島根の出雲地域では旧暦の10月・神在月になると、神様を迎える神迎祭（かみむかえさい）、八百万の神が縁結びや来年の収穫について話し合う神在祭（かみありさい）、神様がそれぞれの国に帰る為の神等去出祭（からさでさい）という一連の祭事を行います。 この時期になると島根以外にも全国から多くの観光客が集まり、出雲大社を参拝に訪れます。 島根県出雲大社へのアクセスや駐車場情報 島根県出雲大社への観光の際はレンタカーを借りることをおすすめします。 自動車での出雲大社へのアクセスは、、JR出雲市駅から約20分でアクセスできます。 駐車場は出雲大社周辺に無料で利用できる場所がいくつかあり、収容台数も多いので、通常であれば土日でも停める場所がないということは無いでしょう。 しかし、先述の神在月の期間や、正月、お盆、ゴールデンウィークなどの大型連休や観光シーズンの際は非常に混雑します。 上記期間に参拝・観光を検討される場合は、JR出雲市駅に隣接している一畑電車をご利用することをおすすめします。 島根県出雲大社紹介まとめ 島根県出雲大社について紹介させて頂きました。 出雲大社は非常に厳かで神秘的な雰囲気を持つ観光スポットです。 日本の古き良き文化を直に感じることが出来る神聖なスポット。 是非、島根観光に来た際は出雲大社に足を運んでみてはいかがでしょうか。

Hinamatsuri at Shimogamo Shrine, Kyoto: Video Introduction This video, titled "[Past Video] Kyoto Nagashibina at Shimogamo Shrine (Filmed in Sakyo, Kyoto, March 3, 2017)" (【過去動画】下鴨神社「京の流しびな」（2017年3月3日撮影　京都市左京区）), was uploaded by "Kyoto Shimbun" (京都新聞). About Hinamatsuri & Shimogamo Shrine Hinamatsuri, also known as Girl's Day, is an annual event in Japan to pray for the healthy growth of girls. It's a seasonal festival/event in which special dolls called "hina" are decorated with cherry blossoms, oranges, peach blossoms, and other decorations. The History of Hinamatsuri dates back approximately 1,000 years to Japan's Heian Period, and references to hina dolls can even be found in famous Japanese texts, such as the Tale of Genji. In the past mainly paper dolls would have been used, and while they are still used for some ceremonies, eventually the more luxurious dolls we see today became the norm for celebrations. Kyoto is home to an endless number of historical shrines and temples and Shimogamo Shrine is no exception. Shimogamo Shrine is a famous shrine and UNESCO World Heritage Site and is one of the oldest shrines in Japan. It's a must-visit tourist attraction in Kyoto and there are many different restaurants and cafes serving traditional sweets in the area around it. Nagashibina (Floating Hina Doll Festival), is a Hinamatsuri Festival that's held every year on March 3 at Shimogamo Shrine in Kyoto. In early spring, when the weather is still cold, the tranquil air above the Mitarashi River and the buds on the plum trees remind us of the arrival of spring. This Hinamatsuri festival features hina dolls dressed in Junihitoe, a unique twelve-layered kimono worn during the Heian period by noble women, and a variety of other dolls wearing kimono and crowns. There are even town mascots participating in the event. Check out the video of the Hinamatsuri Festival at Shimogamo Shrine to see the unique Nagashibina event where hina dolls made of Japanese paper are placed on woven straw vessels and sent floating down the Mitarashi River. The History of Nagashibina, the Roots of Hinamatsuri Photo： Nagashibina at Shimogamo Shrine (Kamo Mioya Shrine), Kyoto Shimogamo Shrine is A World Heritage Site in Kyoto, Japan and is formally known as Kamo Mioya Shrine. The Nagashibina Hinamatsuri festival, held every March, is a traditional event that is said to be the origin of Hinamatsuri. According to the history of the festival, it originated from "Joshi no Sekku," one of the five seasonal festivals of Japan, which was introduced from China. March 3 falls on the second of the five festivals, "Joshi no Sekku." On this day, there was a Chinese custom of purifying the body by the waterside and holding a banquet to drive away misfortune. It's believed that these ancient Chinese Sekku events mixed with the Japanese beliefs of misogiharai (purification via water ablutions) and the custom of praying for good health by floating purified dolls (hitogata) down the river, resulting in the modern Nagashibina Hinamatsuri festival we have today. The "hitogata" are also said to be the origins of modern Hina Dolls. The story of purifying the human form and putting it on a boat and floating it into the sea in Suma is mentioned in "The Tale of Genji" an epic written in the mid-Heian period (794-1185 A.D.) that's widely considered the first novel ever written. When to See the Hinamatsuri Event at Shimogamo Shrine Photo：A Nagashibina doll at Shimogamo Shrine (Kamo Mioya Shrine), Kyoto Here we'll introduce the Nagashibina Hinamatsuri Festival held at Shimogamo Shrine. The hina dolls dressed in Heian period costumes, are chosen by couples from the general public who are planning to get married. [Video] 0:25 - Hina Dolls Being Chosen by the Public Date: Friday, March 3, 2023 Time: 11:00 a.m. - The Nagashibina Hinamatsuri festival takes place along the Mitarashi River, which flows in front of the Mitarashi Shrine (御手洗社, Mitarashi-sha) and Inoue Shrine (井上社, Inoue-sha), which are located at the end of the shrine's precincts. Hina dolls made of Japanese paper are placed in straw vessels and floated down the river to pray for the health and safety of the children. The highlight of the festival is the junihitoe, a 12-layered kimono worn during the Heian period, as well as seeing the hina dolls portrayed in human form. Seeing the festival being held will give you a sense of the historical atmosphere typical of the ancient capital of Kyoto. The festival is free of charge, and the Nagashibina dolls used for the Hinamatsuri festival are available for a fee (small: 500 yen, large: 1,000 yen). [Video] 1:02 - Hina Dolls Floating Down the River On the day of the Hinamatsuri event, amazake (a sweet, low-alcohol or non-alcohol type of sake) will be served, which is a welcome treat during the colder months of the year. Other Nagashibina Hinamatsuri Events Across Japan Photo：Nagashibina Hinamatsuri In addition to Shimogamo Shrine in Kyoto, there are many Nagashibina Hinamatsuri festivals and events held throughout Japan. Below is a list of some of them: ●Hina Nagashi at Awashima Shrine, Wakayama Prefecture The Hinamatsuri event at Awashima Shrine is known as Hina Nagashi, and features three small white wooden boats that are used to carry the dolls, with wishes written on them, out to sea after a purification ceremony by a shrine priest. The festival is usually held on March 3. ●Edo Nagashibina, Tokyo Edo Nagashibina is held to pass on traditional events to children and to wish for their bright futures. Please check the official website for more details. ●Yose Nagashibina, Yose, Tottori The Yose Nagashibina Hinamatsuri event is held on March 3 of the lunar calendar to pray for good health and safety, and was designated as an Intangible Folk Cultural Property of Tottori Prefecture in 1985. ●Hina Nagashi at Akama Shrine, Shimonoseki, Yamaguchi The Hina Nagashi event at Akama Shrine is held every March to comfort the spirits of Emperor Antoku and the Heike clansmen who died in the Battle of Dan-no-Ura at an early age. Summary of Hinamatsuri at Shimogamo Shrine, Kyoto Regardless of the time period or region, Nagashibina is always a time to wish for good health and a bright future for children. The dolls are modeled after purification dolls from various parts of Japan to purify themselves by allowing their impurities to be washed away in the water. This event is held in March, when the aroma of the Japanese plum blossoms is in the air. The Shinto rituals and customs in each region have changed little by little, but the concept behind them has remained unchanged since ancient times. Experience Hinamatsuri and Japanese culture while enjoying tourism and spring in Kyoto! 【Official Website】Shimogamo Shrine｜Kamo Mioya Shrine 【TripAdvisor】Shimogamo Shrine

Kinosaki Onsen's Winter Event, 'Crab Kingdom': Video Introduction This video, titled "'Crab Kingdom' at Kinosaki Onsen in Winter" (冬の城崎温泉「かに王国」), was uploaded by "kinosakiTV." The video begins with beautiful scenes of Kinosaki in winter. Be sure to check it out. [Video] 0:13 - A Sea of Clouds at Mt. Kuruhi [Video] 0:20 - Morning Mist on the Maruyama River [Video] 3:00 - Kinosaki Literature Museum The town of Kinosaki, located in Toyooka, Hyogo in Japan's Kansai region, is known for its hot springs. At 1,300 years old, Kinosaki Onsen is a large hot spring resort town, and its streets retain a historical atmosphere from a bygone era. In February of 2013, Kinosaki Onsen was awarded two stars in the third edition of the Michelin Green Guide Japan, and was also ranked first in the Hot Springs General Election of 2016, in the Inbound category, sponsored by the Japan Tourism Agency and the Ministry of the Environment. Kinosaki Onsen is popular among both domestic and international travelers. Kinosaki Onsen's Crab Kingdom (かに王国, Kani Oukoku) will open in conjunction with the arrival of the snow crab season in the winter. At Crab Kingdom, visitors can feast on delicious snow crab, which is only available during the winter months, and also participate in some unique events. In this article, we'll introduce Kinosaki Onsen's Crab Kingdom that takes place during winter! Crab Season at Kinosaki Onsen Photo：Snow crab Winter is all about crab in Japan, and snow crabs caught in the Sea of Japan in the San'in region, where Kinosaki Onsen is located, are said to be the most delicious in Japan. Snow crab is officially called "Zuwai-gani" (ズワイガニ) in Japanese, but the name for snow crab is different depending on what region you visit, with those caught in the San'in region being called "Matsuba-gani" (松葉ガニ). Because snow crab in Kinosaki grows in a plankton-rich environment, it's highly regarded for its superior meat and kani miso. The crab is ranked and sorted by professionals, and depending on the rank, it can cost anywhere from several thousand yen to several tens of thousands of yen. Freshness is the most important factor for snow crab caught in Kinosaki. Furthermore there is also Beni-zuwai-gani, which is the same as regular snow crab , but has slightly less meat, but a sweeter taste. The season for snow crab, which is hard to find outside of season, opens on November 6 and runs until March 20. Be sure to try Matsuba-gani, a luxury food only available in Kinosaki Onsen, if you visit during winter! [Video] 0:29 - The Opening of the Matsuba-gani Crab Season Christmas and Other Winter Events at Crab Kingdom Source :YouTube screenshot During the crab season at Kinosaki Onsen, the area is referred to as 'Crab Kingdom.' One of the highlights of Crab Kingdom is its unique winter events. The Crab Kingdom Shouting Contest is held to celebrate the opening of the Crab Kingdom with the arrival of the snow crab season. Wearing a crab hat and happi, visitors shout "Kani-san, Arigato!" (カニさんありがとう！, Thank you, crabs!), followed by a message they wish to share, and compete to see who can yell it the loudest. This shouting contest is unique to Kinosaki and has become a winter tradition. The winners of the contest receive prizes, including things like free snow crab. [Video] 1:15 - The Crab Kingdom Shouting Contest On December 24, Christmas Eve, the Crab Santa Christmas Event is held at JR Kinosaki Onsen Station. The event is limited to the first 100 visitors and includes a Christmas gift from Crab Santa, a raffle for snow crab and Tajima Beef, and many other fun activities. [Video] 1:59 - The Crab Santa Christmas Event Also, be sure to check out Kinosaki Onsen Illumination Project 2022, "A Time of Reflection" (返照の時, Hensho no Toki). In collaboration with MS TRUSTY, an illumination project that amplifies the charms of the hot spring resort area has been brought to life. Visitors can enjoy the illumination of the hot spring resort from November 7, 2022 to March 31, 2023 on Kiyamachi Street (木屋町通り, Kiyamachi-dori) in the Kinosaki Onsen resort area. Day Trips and Overnight Stays to Feast on Crab in Kinosaki! Photo：Steamed crab in an earthenware pot, Kinosaki Onsen ※Image is for reference only For those interested in visiting Kinosaki in winter, nothing beats hitting the relaxing hot springs and filling your belly with tasty snow crab. Here are some recommended hotels and plans that allow you to do just that! If you're looking to taste the famous snow crab of Kinosaki Onsen, we recommend Yamashiroya (山しろや). At this Japanese-style inn, you can enjoy fresh snow crab from November to March. The most popular plan is the "Manpuku Kani-suki Plan" (満腹かにすきプラン), which includes crab sukiyaki, grilled crab, sashimi made from locally caught fish, zosui rice with kani miso (crab brain), and fruit, allowing you to enjoy a full meal of seasonal snow crab. The soup stock used for the crab sukiyaki is a secret recipe made by simmering 13 different ingredients for 9 hours. If you just want to get your fill of crab, and aren't worried about the smaller details of the trip, Kawaguchiya Kinosaki Riverside Hotel is a popular hotel that offers an all-you-can-eat crab dinner at an affordable price, and is just an 8-minute walk from Kinosaki Onsen Station via the JR San'in Line. For those with limited time, we recommend the Full Course Day-trip Crab Lunch Plan at Kawaguchiya Honkan. Located in the center of Kinosaki Onsen, Kawaguchiya Honkan is popular for its traditional Japanese-style atmosphere, ideal for touring the outside hot springs, and its private open-air baths with a lovely atmosphere. At this inn, you can also enjoy day-trip crab lunches of sukiyaki and grilled crab at a restaurant with a sunken kotatsu to keep you warm. Enjoy an amazing time at Kinosaki Onsen with relaxing hot springs and delicious snow crab! Summary of Kinosaki Onsen's 'Crab Kingdom' Kinosaki Onsen is famous for its seven outdoor hot springs, which visitors can tour while wearing traditional Japanese yukata. In addition, Kinosaki Onsen is famous for its snow crab which can be enjoyed in the winter months. Also, if you take part in the unique shouting contest, you can have some fun while also relieving some stress! This winter, plan a trip to Kinosaki Onsen's Crab Kingdom for scrumptious crab dishes and relaxing hot springs. [Video] 4:29 - Outdoor Hot Spring Tour 【TripAdvisor】Kinosaki Onsen

Introducing Tokai in Aichi Prefecture This is a PR video titled “Tokai, Aichi Prefecture Promotional Footage - From 1969 to the Future” (愛知県東海市シティプロモーション映像 「1969年→未来へ」), produced by tokaicityofficial. Tokai is named in the hope that the city would represent the Tokai region. This short two-and-a-half-minute video is a speedy introduction of the attractive views, events, and tourist destinations in Tokai. Starting with the footage of old Tokai, scenes of the bustling city in the present day will give you the impression of a “Safe, Futuristic City that Connects People with Dreams” (the city’s slogan), and the footage makes one feel as if the city will continue to develop into the future. Sightseeing in Tokai, Aichi Prefecture Photo：Shurakuen Buddha Tokai in Aichi Prefecture has many iron works from long ago, and developed as the “City of Steel.” In 1969, the present Tokai was born as the result of a merger between the towns of Ueno and Yokosuka. A large Buddha is perched on the scenic hill overlooking Tokai, Aichi Prefecture, as if it's watching over the city. The Shurakuen Buddha in Shurakuen Park, with a height of 18.79 meters (about 62 feet), that watches over Tokai, is bigger than the Buddhas in both Nara and Kamakura. Be sure to add this landmark to your itinerary when you visit Tokai. The Buddha statue is shown at 0:42 in the video. Even just from watching the video you can feel the scale of the statue. Tourists can also visit hidden gems, such as Observation Hill in Oike Park to enjoy the scenic beauty, as well as the Aichi Prefectural Art Theater. The Summer Festivals of Tokai, Aichi Prefecture One of the most popular summer events in Tokai, Aichi Prefecture is the Tokai Fireworks Festival. The popular firework festival, which represents Tokai, is held in the city at Oike Park. It provides a spectacular view for visitors. Experience the spectacular fireworks of the Tokai Fireworks Festival in the footage at 1:23 in the video. Tokai also has a unique festival called the "Silent Bon Festival" where locals dance to music played in their earphones, as not to annoy people living in the surrounding area. Event Information for Tokai, Aichi Prefecture Source :YouTube screenshot The Ota Festival and Owari Yokosuka Festival are known as the two largest float festivals in the city. Beside these, the city is filled with a festive atmosphere during tourist events such as the pop culture event ANIMAN, the Ryukyu Festival for introducing attractions of Okinawa City (one of Tokai’s sister cities), and the Tokai Autumn Festival. The Ota River area has events including the Nippon Domannaka Festival and the Ota River Hot Summer Garden during summer, and the Winter Illumination at Ota River during winter. The event venues are lined with stalls where tourists can purchase local food and souvenirs. The Tokai Half Marathon organized in December also gathers attentions from both locals and tourists. Check out the video to see footage of these events and festivals! Summary of Tokai, Aichi Prefecture The video has a lot of amazing things to see. So many traditional Japanese festivals and events are organized in Tokai, Aichi Prefecture! Enjoy the scenic beauty, as well as the events/festivals in Tokai, Aichi Prefecture, through the video. Tokai, Aichi Prefecture truly is a fascinating tourist destination! When you make a trip to the city, be sure to join in the festive events. It'll be an experience you won't forget! 【Official Website】Tokai, Aichi Prefecture city official website http://www.city.tokai.aichi.jp/

日本で人気の観光地「北海道洞爺湖」の動画について 「洞爺湖町公式」が公開した「洞爺湖町観光PR映像（8分篇）」は、北海道のおすすめの観光地の洞爺湖を紹介している動画です。 アクティビティ、イベント、自然の景観など、洞爺湖町にはさまざまな魅力が多く紹介されています。 こちらの動画で北海道洞爺湖町の魅力を知れば、実際に旅行したいと思うはずですよ。 こちらの記事では、日本の観光地である北海道洞爺湖町の魅力を動画と共に紹介いたします。 日本で人気の観光地「北海道洞爺湖」の情報紹介 日本で人気の観光地である北海道洞爺湖町は、各国の首脳が集まって開催された洞爺湖サミットの場所として有名です。 さまざまなアクティビティを体験できる観光エリアとしてとても人気があります。 湖畔の雄大な景色のすぐそばにあるキャンプ場や、洞爺湖湖上クルーズの遊覧船は洞爺湖の自然を満喫できるのでおすすめ。 洞爺湖を美しさを堪能できるカヌー、絶景を眺めながら北海道の大地を歩く乗馬なども人気です。 ほかにも、ハイキング、サイクリング、登山やスノーモービル、スキー、スノーボード、スノーモービルなどのウィンタースポーツも洞爺湖町で楽しめます。 また、北海道洞爺湖町は魅力のあるホテルも充実しています。 「洞爺湖畔亭」「洞爺サンパレス」「ウィンザーホテル」は、温泉・グルメを楽しめるおすすめのホテルです。 宿泊プランもたくさん用意されているので、あなた好みをお探しください。 日本の観光地「北海道洞爺湖」のおすすめスポット 日本の観光地である北海道洞爺湖町では、観光スポットがたくさんあります。 日本有数のカルデラ湖をご覧になれる「洞爺カルデラ」、足湯につかりながら洞爺湖の四季を眺められる「洞龍（とうろん）の湯」、洞爺湖と島々を一望できる「サイロ展望台」などが人気のスポットです。 ほかにも、「洞爺湖町立火山科学館」「ツボ足健康通り」「有珠山噴火記念公園」「とうや・水の駅」「西山山麓火口散策路」「洞爺湖温泉の桜」もおすすめ観光スポット。 日本の観光地「北海道洞爺湖」の人気のイベント 日本の観光地である北海道洞爺湖町には、人気のイベントもたくさんあります。 北海道内で最大規模の花火大会の「洞爺湖ロングラン花火大会」は、450発もの花火が打ち上げられ夜の洞爺湖を鮮やかに彩ります。 洞爺湖温泉街のにぎわい広場に電飾が輝く「イルミネーショントンネル」も美しい景色を眺められるのでおすすめ。 インスタ映えする景色を撮影できますよ。 「洞爺湖温泉イルミネーションストリート」「洞爺湖マラソン」「水中花火108連発」「爺湖温泉夏祭り」「洞爺夏まつり」「洞爺湖温泉冬まつり」といった洞爺湖で開催されているイベントも注目です。 日本で人気の観光地「北海道洞爺湖」紹介記事のまとめ 北海道洞爺湖は自然の景色を楽しめる名所。 洞爺湖の観光スポットを巡れば充実した旅行になりますよ！

New Attractions in Hokkaido: Video Introduction This video, titled "[Official] PR Video 'HOKKAIDO MIRAI NOTE'" (【公式】PR動画「北海道ミライノート」 /HOKKAIDO MIRAI NOTE』) , was uploaded by "Hokkaido Official" (北海道公式). This video introduces the Lake Shikotsu Ice Festival, a popular tourist attraction, as well as small events and out-of-the-way places in Hokkaido. With its row of ice sculptures, the Lake Shikotsu Ice Festival is one of Hokkaido's representative winter festivals. The natural blue glow during the day and the colorful lights at night create a fantastic world. The festival is shown in the video, so be sure to check it out. [Video] 2:32 - Lake Shikotsu Ice Festival New Attractions in Hokkaido: Exciting Summer Events Photo：Hokkaido Balloon Festival, Kamishiro, Hokkaido The below is details for the summer events introduced in the video. Sapporo 8Fes (さっぽろ八月祭, Sapporo Hachigatsusai) Location: Sapporo Kita 3-jo Plaza Event period: Around the end of July Sapporo 8Fes is held at a venue covered with the symbolic "Furoshiki" (a Japanese traditional wrapping cloth), where visitors are able to enjoy a variety of Bon dances, as well as other various programs such as Mochimaki (rice-cake shower) and Nigiwai Ennichi (a summer festival). [Video] 0:31 - Sapporo 8Fes TOBIU CAMP Location: Tobiu Art Festival Event period: Around early September TOBIU CAMP is a forest space where visitors can enjoy unique experiences such as camping and a wide variety of handmade food. The fairytale-like worldview is especially breathtaking, utilizing expressions such as art, music, Ainu folk songs and dances, dance performances, and theater, set in a wooden school building and vast pastureland. [Video] 1:40 - Scenes from Tobiu Art Festival Hokkaido Balloon Festival (北海道バルーンフェスティバル) Location: Kamishiro Aviation Park Event period: Mid-August With the sound of the balloon's roaring burner visitors are taken 20 meters into the air. You can experience a 5-minute anchored flight, which offers a spectacular panoramic view from inside the balloon. In addition, at night, the entire venue is illuminated by burner flames, creating a fantastical view that you can't experience during the day. [Video] 1:51 - Hokkaido Balloon Festival Events and schedules may change due to COVID-19 so be sure to check the latest information before visiting. Even More Places to See in Hokkaido! Check Out These Recommended Tourist Attractions! There are many other events, sightseeing and gourmet spots in Hokkaido. In the video you can see many more spots. Even if you've visited Hokkaido before, there may be spots and events that you've never heard of. If you have a chance to visit Hokkaido, consider adding these new spots to your travel plans! Photo：Soya Misaki Wind Farm, Hokkaido Soya Misaki Wind Farm - Wakkanai Space Forest Festival - Taiki Morihiko - Sapporo City Kita no Sumai Sekkeisha - Higashikawa gla_gla - Toyako Mêmu Meadows - Taiki Former Shimizusawa Thermal Power Plant - Yubari Photo：Ishiyama Green Space, Hokkaido Ishiyama Green Space - Sapporo City Shiribetsu River Rafting - Kutchan Mt. Io - Teshikaga Factory Night Views - Tomakomai Obihiro Racecourse - Obihiro Photo：Tokkarisho Lookout, Hokkaido Tokkarisho Lookout - Muroran Cape Chikyu - Muroran Summary of New Attractions in Hokkaido Hokkaido is always ranked high in prefectural attractiveness rankings and rankings of the best prefectures to visit in Japan and is a popular sightseeing destination. Of course, the grand nature and views are wonderful but the nice cafes and plenty of photogenic spots are great as well! Hokkaido, with its rich charm, is a place with activities for all types of people, such as those traveling with children, female travelers looking for girls' trips, and foodies looking for some gourmet sightseeing. As you can see from the video, there are still many events and spots that are not well known. There still might be more nice, out-of-the-way spots not shown in the video. When traveling in Hokkaido, take the opportunity to discover new and charming spots that you won't find in a guide book. 【TripAdvisor】Hokkaido

COOL JAPAN VIDEOS is always holding photo contests. This time, we have selected works depicting Japan's Kansai region from among the many photos submitted to past COOL JAPAN VIDEOS Photo Contests, and will introduce some photography tips on timing, composition, etc. to help you take great photos with your smartphone! Be sure to try them out the next time you're sightseeing in Japan's Kansai region. COOL JAPAN VIDEOS is a social, video curation site that introduces the charms of Japan to people around the world who are interested in Japan. Our photo contests allow you to participate and even win with photos taken via your smartphone! Stick around to learn more! ■Table of Contents - Kansai in Past Photo Contests  Shirahige Shrine at Sunset  A Night View of Dotonbori in Minami, Osaka  Mt. Wakakusa Yamayaki and Yakushiji Temple  The Great Buddha Hall of Todaiji Temple  Gozan Okuribi in Kyoto  Sea Sparkles in Ine, Kyoto  Himeji Castle and Cherry Blossoms  The Takeda Castle Ruins  Daimonzaka on the Kumano Kodo  Hashigui-iwa Rocks - Features of COOL JAPAN VIDEOS Photo Contests - Current Photo Contest - Summary of Kansai in COOL JAPAN VIDEOS Photo Contests Kansai in Past Photo Contests Among the many works that convey the charms of Japan, we have carefully selected photos of sightseeing spots in Japan's Kansai region. We will also introduce some highlights of each area, photography tips, and related video articles to check out. COOLJAPANVIDEOS Photographer: たっかー Location: Shirahige Shrine (Takashima, Shiga) Highlights and Photography Tips for Shirahige Shrine, Lake Biwa Shirahige Shrine is a popular power spot in Japan and is the oldest shrine in Omi. There are many photogenic sights, including the main shrine, the shrine office, and other historical buildings, as well as Iwato Shrine located at the far end of the shrine grounds. But the best place for photos is the Great Torii Gate standing in Lake Biwa! You can capture various scenes of the torii as it stands against the rising sun and on the surface of the lake at sunset from the observatory on the shrine grounds. A Video Article About Shirahige Shrine, a Popular Tourist Attraction Video article 5:22 Shirahige Shrine - A Mysterious and Popular Location Where You Can Enjoy a Spectacular View of Lake Biwa! The Vermilion-Colored Torii Gate Is a Must-See! YouTube COOLJAPANVIDEOS Photographer: たっかー Location: Dotonbori (Osaka City, Osaka Prefecture) Highlights and Photography Tips for Dotonbori a downtown area in Osaka's Minami district Dotonbori is a well-known shopping district in Osaka's Minami district. Lined with theatres and restaurants, it has been crowded with people since Edo period Japan to the present day. Ebisu Bridge, which spans the Dotonbori River, is a great place to take photos. The huge billboard of "Glico" is proof that Osaka is a popular tourist attraction. The Kuidaore Taro doll and the giant three-dimensional billboards are photo spots that symbolize downtown Osaka. A Video Article About the Shinsekai and Tsutenkaku Areas of Osaka Video article 4:26 Be Enchanted by the Glittering Neon Lights of Osaka and the Night View of Tsutenkaku Lighting up the City of Osaka! Introducing Recommended Spots Around Tsutenkaku Tower, the Symbol of Osaka! YouTube COOLJAPANVIDEOS Photographer: Shunkai_k Location: Lake Oike (Nara City, Nara Prefecture) Highlights and Photography Tips for Wakakusa Yamayaki Wakakusa Yamayaki, an event held every year on the fourth Saturday in January in Japan, is a traditional event in Nara. The flames spread across 81 acres of grassland on Mt. Wakakusa in Nara Park. The foot of Mt. Wakakusa, where visitors can see Mt. Wakakusa up close as it burns, as well as Ukigumo Enchi and Kasugano Enchi, which offer panoramic views of Mt. Wakakusa, are all popular sightseeing spots. From Oike in Nishinokyo, visitors can take photos of Yakushiji Temple and the Mt. Wakakusa fireworks. A Video Article About Yakushiji Temple, a Power Spot in Nara Prefecture Video article 6:57 Yakushiji Temple in Nara Prefecture - Registered as a World Heritage Site Under "Historic Monuments of Ancient Nara," the Temple Is Also Known as a Power Spot To Pray for Good Health! YouTube COOLJAPANVIDEOS Photographer: Smartone Templeslope Location: The Great Buddha Hall of Todaiji Temple from Mt. Wakakusa (Nara City, Nara Prefecture) Highlights and Photography Tips for Nara Park, a Popular Tourist Attraction Nara Park is dotted with historical buildings such as Todaiji Temple, Shosoin Temple, Kofukuji Temple, and Kasuga Taisha Shrine in a rich natural setting. It is also a popular tourist attraction for cherry blossoms and autumn leaves. If you want to take pictures of autumn leaves and deer, we recommend Tobihino and Ukigumo Enchi in Nara Park. A Video Article About Tourist Attractions in Nara Prefecture Video article 3:45 Get a Taste of Japanese History in Nara Prefecture! Nara Prefecture Is Full of Places That You Don't Want to Miss When Traveling to the Kansai Region! YouTube COOLJAPANVIDEOS Photographer: tabokin Location: Hidari Daimonji seen from Mt. Yoshida (Sakyo, Kyoto) Photography Tips for Gozan no Okuribi, a Summer Event in Kyoto Gozan no Okuribi is a summer tradition in Kyoto. It's a Bon Festival event held every year on August 16 where fires are lit on five mountains surrounding the city of Kyoto. The characters "Daimonji" (大文字), "Myo/Ho" (妙・法), "Funagata" (船形), "Hidari Daimonji" (左大文字), and "Toriigata" (鳥居形) are lit in sequence from 8:00 p.m. onward. Mt. Yoshida, located on Mt. Okita and facing Daimonji, is lit by "Hidari Daimonji." 10 minutes up the mountain, there is a photo spot where you can get a full view of the Daimonji, which is highly recommended. A Video Article About Gozan no Okuribi, a Traditional Event in Kyoto Video article 1:01 Gozan no Okuribi – A Traditional Event to Send off the Spirits of the Deceased During the Obon Festival of Kyoto, Japan YouTube COOLJAPANVIDEOS Photographer: しんご @shingo_camera Location: Ine (Yosa, Kyoto) The Sea Sparkles of Ine, Kyoto Every year from April to the end of May, there are days when Ine Bay in Kyoto, Japan glows a brilliant blue. The cause of this is noctiluca scintillans, aka sea sparkles. Unlike sea fireflies, sea sparkles emit blue light in response to physical stimuli. Therefore, whenever they are stimulated by waves, large numbers of sea sparkles begin to glow. During the day, when there's a red tide in the bay and a strong southward wind blows, there's a high probability of seeing sea sparkles. A Video Article About the Funaya of Ine, Kyoto Video article 3:45 The First Floor of the House Is a Dock?! The Historic Port Town of Funaya, Ine in Kyoto Is a Fishing Village Lined With Mysterious Houses! You won't Find Scenery Like This Anywhere Else! YouTube COOLJAPANVIDEOS Photographer: st situation Location: Himeji Castle (Himeji, Hyogo) Highlights and Photography Tips for Cherry Blossoms at Himeji Castle Himeji Castle, selected as one of the Top 100 Cherry Blossom Viewing Spots in Japan, is home to approximately 1,600 cherry trees, including Someiyoshino cherry trees and weeping cherry trees, which can be seen in full bloom in the spring. Sannomaru Square (三の丸広場, San no Maru Hiroba), Senhime Botan Garden (千姫ぼたん園, Sen Hime Botan-en), and Nishi no Maru Garden (西の丸庭園, Nishi no Maru Teien) are popular spots for taking photos of Himeji Castle and the cherry blossoms. The atmospheric composition of Himeji Castle, cherry blossoms, and a Japanese sightseeing boat in the inner moat of Himeji Castle with the red Shiromi Bridge in the background creates an incredibly photogenic shot. A Video Article About Cherry Blossoms at Himeji Castle in Hyogo Prefecture Video article 3:29 Enjoy the Cherry Blossoms of Hyogo Prefecture at Himeji Castle, Japan's First World Cultural Heritage Site! The Contrast Between the White Himeji Castle and the Pink Cherry Blossoms Will Leave You Speechless! YouTube COOLJAPANVIDEOS Photographer: Nguyen Vu Location: The Takeda Castle Ruins from the Ritsuunkyo Observation Deck (Asago, Hyogo) Highlights and Photography Tips for the Takeda Castle Ruins The Takeda Castle Ruins, located on the summit of Mt. Kojo in Asago, Hyogo, are the site of a mountain castle whose stone walls are still almost completely intact, some 400 years after the castle was abandoned. On a clear autumn morning, the area around the castle is sometimes shrouded in thick fog, leaving the Takeda Castle Ruins at the top of the mountain. A good spot to photograph the Takeda Castle Ruins floating in a sea of clouds is the Ritsuunkyo Observation Deck (立雲峡, Ritsuunkyo), located halfway up Mt. Asago opposite the castle ruins. A Video Article About the Take Castle Ruins, the "Castle in the Sky" Video article 2:29 Behold the Mesmerizing Scenery of Takeda Castle, Hidden in a Sea of Clouds in Asago, Hyogo! Called the "Machu Picchu of Japan" and "Castle in the Sky," Takeda Castle Attracts Thousands of Tourists From All Over the World! YouTube COOLJAPANVIDEOS Photographer: 女子高校生 Location: The Kumano Kodo (Higashimuro, Wakayama) Highlights and Photography Tips for Daimonzaka on the Kumano Kodo Daimonzaka, located on the Kumano Kodo pilgrimage trail, is the entrance to Kumano Nachi Taisha Shrine and Nachi Falls, both of which were visited by people in ancient times. The "Meoto Sugi" (Lover Cedar Trees), estimated to be 800 years old, the stone pavement, the grove of centuries-old cedar trees, and the moss-covered stone steps are a must-see for photographers and travelers alike. Kumano Nachi Taisha Shrine, one of the Kumano Sanzan (three great temples of the Kumano region), and Nachi Falls, one of the Top 3 Waterfalls in Japan, are also popular spots. A Video Article About the Kumano Kodo, a World Heritage Site Video article 2:35 The Beautiful Landscape of Kumano Kodo, A World Heritage Site in Wakayama Prefecture. This Historic Power Spot Is Full of Stone Steps and Sacred Waterfalls, Perfect for Your Instagram! YouTube COOLJAPANVIDEOS Photographer: いくみ Location: Hashigui-iwa Rocks (Higashimuro, Wakayama) Highlights and Photography Tips for Hashigui-iwa Rocks, a Popular Tourist Attraction The Hashigui-iwa Rocks are a group of uniquely-shaped rocks in the town of Kushimoto on the southern tip of Wakayama. It consists of more than 40 rock pillars of all shapes and sizes that form a straight line extending roughly 850 meters into the sea. The scenery has been selected as one of the Top 100 Sunrise Spots in Japan, so be sure to take photos of it at sunrise! The best spot to photograph it is from the parking lot of Roadside Station Kushimoto Hashigui-iwa (道の駅くしもと橋杭岩, Michi no Eki Kushimoto Hashigui-iwa). With silhouettes of rock pillars, the sky and the sea, it's possible to capture various appearances with creative use of exposure, composition, and white balance. A Video Article About the Shirasaki Coast in Wakayama Prefecture Video article 3:35 Shirasaki Coast in Wakayama Prefecture, Called the "Aegean Sea of Japan," Is Just Like a Painting! Introducing the Charms and Activities of Shirasaki Coast! YouTube COOL JAPAN VIDEOSFeatures of COOL JAPAN VIDEOS Photo Contests COOL JAPAN VIDEOS is a social, video curation site that shares the charms of Japan with people all over the world who are interested in Japan. Click here for more information about COOLJAPANVIDEOS 「COOL JAPAN VIDEOS photo contests are open to everyone! Even a photo taken by chance with your smartphone could win a prize! Here are some of the features of our contests. ・Photos taken not only with SLR cameras and digital cameras, but also with smartphones and other devices can be submitted. ・You can submit as many photos as you like during the contest period. ・Image editing, such as cropping and color changes, is also allowed! Here you can find all of the past photo contest winners in one place. You can also see the prizes for each contest, as well as the locations where the photos were taken and the judges' critiques. Click here to see past photo contest winners Text only Photo Contest Results - COOL JAPAN VIDEOS Winning Photos - Discover the Charms of Japan! Current Photo Contest The following is information about the current photo contest. [Ongoing From September 2023] The 19th COOL JAPAN VIDEOS Photo Contest Theme: Autumn in Japan Submission period: September 1, 2023 0:00 AM – October 31 2023 11:59 PM(JST) Prizes: ■Grand Prize: 30,000 yen Amazon gift card (1 Winner) ■Honorable Mentions: 10,000 yen Amazon gift card (5 Winners) Autumn in Japan Summary of Kansai in COOL JAPAN VIDEOS Photo Contests That concludes our introduction of beautiful photos of tourist attractions in Japan's Kansai Region in past COOL JAPAN VIDEOS Photo Contests. Next time you're visiting any of these tourist attractions, be sure to try out some of these photography tips! With the spread of smartphones, the world of photography has become more accessible than ever. We invite you to share your photos of Japan with the people of the world by submitting them to COOL JAPAN VIDEOS. Related Articles Text only Photo Contest Landscape Photography - Introducing 10 Beautiful Japanese Landscapes Text only Children of COOL JAPAN VIDEOS Photo Contests: 10 Heartwarming Photos That Will Put a Smile on Your Face! Text only Autumn in COOL JAPAN VIDEOS Photo Contests: 10 Beautiful Photos of Autumn in Japan Text only Mt. Fuji in COOL JAPAN VIDEOS Photo Contests: 10 Photos Showcasing the Different Views of Mt. Fuji Text only Hokkaido in COOL JAPAN VIDEOS Photo Contests: From Popular Sightseeing Spots to Exotic Animals, Discover the Beauty of Japan's Northernmost Prefecture! Text only Tohoku in COOL JAPAN VIDEOS Photo Contests: Hot Springs, Festivals, Snowscapes, and More – 10 Beautiful Photos of Japan's Tohoku Region! 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Hirakata Park, Osaka: Video introduction This video, titled "[Hirakata Park Official Video Clip] Fun Hirakata Park for Children and Adults All Year Round" (【ひらかたパーク公式】 子どもから大人まで一年中楽しいひらパー), was uploaded by "hirakatapark." The video is a brief three-minute intro to Hirakata Park in Osaka. It shows seasonal spots and attractions popular on social media as well, such as cherry blossoms, roses, and illuminations. Check out the video to see everything there is to do at Hirakata Park. Hirakata Park: An Introduction to the Oldest Amusement Park in Japan Photo：Hirakata Park, an amusement park in Hirakata, Osaka Hirakata Park is an amusement park located in Hirakata, Osaka. The park is approximately 40 acres, allowing guests to enjoy many attractions and plenty of facilities all year round, including swimming pools in the summer and an ice-skating rink in the winter. Unique events are held in every season, and people of all ages, from small children to adults, can enjoy their time here. Opened in 1910, the park has been open for more than 100 years: it has a longer history than any amusement parks in Japan and one of the representative theme parks in the Kansai area. Although Hanayashiki in Asukusa, Tokyo technically has a longer history, it was destroyed once in WWII, making Hirakata Park the oldest amusement park in Japan without interruption. Junichi Okada, a member of V6, a popular Japanese idol group, has been appointed as the poster child of Hirakata Park. The Japanese movie Hard Days, featuring Junichi Okada, commemorates the 10th anniversary since his appointment as such. More Than 40 Attractions at Hirakata Park! Photo：The Ferris wheel at Hirakata Park, Hirakata, Osaka Hirakata Park features a wide range of rides that both children and adults can enjoy, including thrill rides. It has many attractions that small children and their parents can enjoy together, such as the classic teacup-shaped Strawberry Cafe, Magical Jumping, and Dolphin Paradise. It also has attractions that adults can enjoy. Red Falcon, with a top speed of 70 km/h, is one ride that will satisfy even the most die-hard thrill seekers. ELF is a unique wooden roller coaster that is popular for its classic wooden roller coaster feel. People of any age taller than 3 ft 7 in tall can ride it. Those looking for an even more thrilling experience can try METEO, which drops from a height of around 165 feet! It also has indoor attractions and covered rides, so you can enjoy the park even on rainy days. Its one-day pass, Free Pass as they call, may be a good deal to ride various attractions. A "free pass" that includes admission to Hirakata Park and unlimited access to attractions costs 4,800 yen for adults, 4,000 yen for elementary school students, and 2,800 yen for children from 2 years old to preschool age. Purchase online or with Lawson Ticket for a discount. For details, please check the official website. Enjoy a Hot Summer Day at the Pools at Hirakata Park Photo：A child playing in a pool The Boon is its swimming pool where both children and adults can enjoy a huge lazy river pool and kids pool. The swimming pools are especially fun for children on their summer vacation who are full of energy. Kiddie Slider, Crying Tube, and Canyon Ride are fast and powerful tube slides. You can bring in a dome-shaped pop-up tent of 2m x 2m or less to the poolside, but it will be crowded during summer vacation, so you'll need to get a spot early in the morning. [Video] 0:46 - Nagisa Pool and the Lazy River Pool In the summer, you can leave the pool area in your swimsuit and ride other attractions as well. Please check the official website for pool fees. Autumn and Winter Events at Hirakata Park: Halloween, Illuminations, and More! Photo：An illumination at Hirakata Park, Hirakata, Osaka During autumn, Hirakata Park is dyed in Halloween colors with pumpkins and ghosts displayed throughout the park. Autumn roses are also in full bloom during this season, so be sure to stop by the Rose Garden. In the winter, Hirakata Park is home to an ice-skating rink called Winter Carnival. It has three areas, including the main rink, sub rink, and baby rink. you can choose the rink you want to skate at according to your age and ice-skating skills. Another winter event is the Amusement Park of Lights, an illumination event that transforms Hirakata Park into a magical world. Different illuminations and music are played in each area, and you can also enjoy night attractions. Be sure to take a photo in front of the Christmas tree to commemorate your trip to the park! [Video] 2:28 - Illuminations at Hirakata Park Other Things to Do at Hirakata Park – Petting Zoos, Athletic Parks, Barbecues & More! Photo：A prairie dog at Wonder Garden, Hirakata Park Hirakata Park has two animal areas. The outdoor Wonder Garden is a great place to stop by while having fun at the amusement park. At the indoor Wakuwaku Zoo, you can feed cute animals. You can feed popular red pandas for a limited time on certain days as well, so be sure to check the schedule in advance. [Video] 1:35 - Wonder Garden Active elementary school children can also enjoy the educational adventure "Athletic 'try-it,'" which has two courses, normal and challenging. Preschool children can also take part in the adventure, so long as they are accompanied by an adult! The self-service barbecue areas can be reserved online, making it easy to prepare and clean up. Consider trying it with your family during spring break or summer vacation. How to Get to Hirakata Park There are several ways to get to Hirakata Park depending on where you're coming from, but below we'll introduce how to get to Hirakata Park from Osaka Station and from Kyoto Station. Hirakata Park From Osaka Station (Total time: ~40 minutes) To get to Hirakata Pak from Osaka Station, first, take the Osaka Loop Line to Kyobashi Station (~7 mins). From Kyobashi Station, take the Keihan Main Line to Hirakata-Koen Station (~19 mins). From Hirakata-Koen Station it's an approximately 10-minute walk. Hirakata Park From Kyoto Station (Total time: ~45 minutes) To get to Hirakata Park from Kyoto Station, take the Kintetsu- Kyoto Line to Kintetsu Tambabashi Station (~11 mins), and then from Tambabashi Station, take the Keihan Main Line to Hirakata-Koen Station (~20 mins), and then walk to Hirakata Park (~10 mins). Summary of Hirakata Park Photo：The rose garden at Hirakata Park, Hirakata, Osaka At Hirakata Park, where many seasonal events are held, you can feel the spirit of the season from the flowers that decorate the park. If you ride the Red Falcon when the cherry blossoms are in bloom, you can ride through a row of cherry trees. The 300 cherry trees planted in the park are also well worth seeing. [Video] 0:10 - Red Falcon Riding Through Cherry Blossoms The park has 4,000 roses of 600 different varieties in its rose garden, which is beautiful from any angle. In the spring and autumn, visitors are delighted by the colorfully blooming roses. [Video] 0:28 - The Beautiful Rose Garden Hirakata Park is a theme park loved by people in the Kansai region, where everyone from children to adults can enjoy themselves. If you're visit Osaka on vacation, be sure to stop by Hirakata Park. Children on their spring or summer vacation are sure to have a blast! ◆Hirakata Park◆ 【Address】1-1 Hirakata Koenmachi, Hirakata, Osaka 【Hours】10:00 am -5:00 pm 【Admission Fee/Tickets】Adults (junior high school students and older): $11.15 USD, Children (Ages 2 through elementary school): $6.27 USD. Prices correct as of 6/27/2023. ※Please not that prices are subject to change, so please check the official website for up to date information. 【Nearest Station】Hirakata Park Station, Keihan Railway 【Official Website】Hirakata Park 【TripAdvisor】Hirakata Park

Satsuma Heki Ryu Koshiya Kumiyumi This video, titled "Koshiya Kumiyumi, Battlefield Archery Demonstration" (薩摩日置流腰矢組弓 演武), shows a performance of Japanese archery at the World Kyudo Competition. During the Warring States period (1467-1615 A.D.), archery was often used as a martial art on the battlefield. The video shows a powerful archery competition, so you can enjoy a taste of traditional Japanese culture. Satsuma Heki Ryu Koshiya Kumiyumi Photo：Japanese archery Satsuma Heki Ryu Koshiya Kumiyumi (roughly "Satsuma Heki School of Archery"), one of the schools of Japanese archery, was established by Heki Danjo Masatsugu during the Muromachi period (1336-1573 A.D.). However, as guns came to be used in battle, archery gradually came to be neglected. At this time, the Satsuma Heki School continued to study the art of archery while passing on the techniques to its senior apprentices. They devised tactics, such as "Koshiya" and "Sashiya" which were used to form a formation before loosing all arrows at the same time, as well as "Oshitsume" and "Totsugeki." Schools Derived From the Satsuma Heki School The Satsuma Heki School is where Kyudo began and the school has had a strong influence on Japan since the Warring States period. After the Warring States period, the style was divided into various schools of archery derived from the Heki School, and has continued to the present day. The major schools are the Izumo School of the Yamato Heki Line ("Yoshida School"), Yamashina School, Sakon Emon School, Okura School, Insai School, Daishin School, Jutoku School, Sekka School, and Dosetsu School. The Iga-Heki lineage includes the Chikurin School, the Ikkan School, and the Honda school. Other schools, such as the Urakami lineage of the Satsuma Heki Insai School, the Settsu lineage of the Satsuma Heki Insai School, the Heki To School and the Itsumi School are also active. The Satsuma Heki school focuses on the way the bow is held, and the basic shooting technique is to hold the bow diagonally in front of you in a raised motion and then draw the arrows. Each school has its own unique shooting techniques and movements. The Demonstration of the Satsuma Heki School Source :YouTube screenshot The video begins with nine armor-clad performers entering the archery arena. You can see from the video that there are a lot of spectators watching the event. From 0:37 in the video, the performers release their bows one after another with a loud shout. In the performance shown at 2:08 in the video, you can see that after releasing the bow, they gradually move closer towards their targets. This is the formation and method of shooting would have been used on the battlefield in the same way. Summary of Satsuma Heki Ryu Koshiya Kumiyumi's Archery Performance Kyudo is one of the unique Japanese martial arts that developed during the Warring States period. This video shows the powerful demonstration by the Satsuma Heki School of Archery. If you're interested in Japanese martial arts, be sure to check out the awesome form of these iron clad archers!

Introduction the "Oni Banishing Ritual" Held at the Popular Sightseeing Destination, Iwashimizu Hachimangu in Kyoto "Kyoto Festival: Spring Ogre Purification (Oni Yarai Shinji) [4K]" uploaded by "Discover Kyoto," introduces the "Oni Banishing Ritual" which is held every year at Iwashimizu Hachimangu in Kyoto. Iwashimizu Hachimangu, located in southwest Kyoto (Yawata, Kyoto), a popular sightseeing spot in Japan, is a historical shrine with many highlights. There are ten buildings there, including the grounds of the shrine and the main shrine which have been designated National Treasures, and many National Cultural Properties. It is also one of three great Hachimangu Shrines in Japan. You are able to feel Japan, by just walking around the shrine. This article introduces the Oni Banishing Ritual "Oni Yarai Shinji," a type of Setsubun held every year on the Sunday before February 3rd at Iwashimizu Hachimangu, as well as sightseeing and general Setsubun information. As you can see from 2:24 in the video, beans are thrown at oni while people shout "Oni yaro." After the oni are driven out of the shrine they run away. Finally, fukumame (good luck beans) are thrown into the crowd signifying that the shrine has been cleansed. The video will make you want to perform some oni exorcisms of your own! What's the Event Like? Source :YouTube screenshot The origins of Setsubun derive from "Tsuinashiki," an event to drive off evil spirits on New Year's Eve and at the change of seasons to drive away evil spirits. The common chant you'll hear among onlookers is "Oni wa soto, fuku wa uchi!," (Demons out, fortune in!) while throwing the beans. It's also good luck to eat as many beans as your age. In some areas, it's also common to hang a sardine with its head skewered on a holly branch on your doorstep as a charm and to eat ehomaki while facing the "lucky direction" without speaking. The "Oni Banishing Ritual" is held every year on Sunday before February 3rd at Iwashimizu Hachiman in Kyoto, from 1pm and 2pm. A priest who exorcises evil enters and shoots in all directions with a bow made of peach branches. Next, he uses a sword made of peach branches to strike in all directions, saying "oni yaro!" This can be seen from 0:58 in the video. From there, the standard Japanese red and blue oni with clubs come and shout to scare children. The priest and others stand in front of the main building as the oni try to rush forward, but the beans are thrown at them and they're sent tumbling down the slope over and over again. Eventually, the oni give up and run away. Afterwards, beans in small packages are given to the visitors. You can see the event taking place starting from 1:30 in the video. Sightseeing Information Photo：A priestess holding a Kagura bell To get to the shrine, take the Keihan Line from Kyoto Station, ride about 30 minutes and get off at Iwashimizu Hachimangu Station. From there, transfer to the Otokoyama Cable Car and get off at Hachimangu-sanjo Station at the top of Otokoyama and walk for 5 minutes. You can also walk instead of using the cable car. There are parking areas as well. Summary The video “Kyoto Festival: Spring Oni Purification (Oni Yarai Shinji) [4K]” introduces the "Oni Banishing Ritual" event during Setsubun, held at Iwashimizu Hachimangu. You can learn about Setsubun rituals and beliefs in the video, so be sure to check it out. 【Tripadvisor】Iwashimizu Hachimangu https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g1023398-d1901742-Reviews-Iwashimizu_Hachimangu-Yawata_Kyoto_Prefecture_Kinki.html

Karuizawa Umbrella Sky at Harunire Terrace: Video Introduction This video, titled "Hoshino area of Karuizawa | Karuizawa Umbrella Sky 2019"(軽井沢星野エリア｜軽井沢アンブレラスカイ2019), was uploaded by "Hoshino Resorts." This video shows the 2019 Karuizawa Umbrella Sky event, held every year during Japan's rainy season at Harunire Terrace in the Hoshino area of Karuizawa. The view of colorful umbrellas floating above the wooden deck connecting the different buildings in the area makes it a popular spot for Japanese Instagrammers. From June to early July, you can see many photos of the event on Instagram. This article provides easy-to-understand information about popular events. Be sure to check out the photogenic event in the video. What is Karuizawa Umbrella Sky? Photo：Karuizawa Umbrella Sky, Harunire Terrace Karuizawa Umbrella Sky is an event held in the Hoshino area of Karuizawa, operated by Hoshino Resorts in Karuizawa, Nagano, in Japan's Koshin'etsu region. 2023 will mark the 8th year the event is held. Here, we'll take a look at some things to see during the event. ●Umbrella Arcade The main attraction of the event is the "Umbrella Arcade" which features more than 100 colorful umbrellas floating above the deck of Harunire Terrace. Soap bubbles can be seen floating through the air three times a day, creating an exciting atmosphere for people of all ages. "Rainy Art," a pattern that appears on the wooden deck only on rainy days, and the reflection of umbrellas on the wet wooden deck are two more must-see attractions. [Video] 0:38 - Umbrellas Reflected on the Rainy Wooden Deck ●Bubbles and Umbrella Making Workshops (Held on Weekends) At the plaza next to "Hoshino Onsen Tombo no Yu" (Hoshino Onsen), bubble blowing workshops and umbrella making workshops are held for children to have fun with their parents. ●Exclusive Seasonal Beverages to Go With Japan's Rainy Season Drinks inspired by the colorful Karuizawa Umbrella Sky are also sold during the event. The Rainbow-colored Lemonade, a limited-quantity drink from Café Hungry Spot, is filled with colorful jelly and is the perfect drink for the event. Consider purchasing one and snapping some photos of the colorful drink with the lush greenery in the surrounding area. Karuizawa Umbrella Sky 2023: Event Schedule & Hours The 2023 Karuizawa Umbrella Sky event schedule is as follows: Event Period: June 2 - July 9 Hours: 8:00 pm - 10:00 pm Illumination Hours: 6:00 pm - 10:00 pm Bubbles: 10:00 am, 4:00 pm, 8:00 pm The event will be held at Harunire Terrace, a facility with a variety of restaurants and lifestyle stores in the Hoshino area of Karuizawa. The event is a great way to beat the blues brought on by Japan's rainy season, so definitely consider checking it out. Things to Do at Harunire Terrace at Karuizawa Hoshino Resorts Photo：Karuizawa Umbrella Sky at night Harunire Terrace was named after the more than 100 Harunire (Japanese elm) trees that used to grow in the area. There are restaurants, cafes, sweets, and lifestyle & relaxation stores, all connected via a wooden deck. You can see a video of Harunire Terrace after the sun sets in the video. [Video] 0:47 - Harunire Terrace at Night You can enjoy shopping or even just window shopping at the various shops in the area, all the while enjoying Karuizawa Umbrella Sky, or just relax and enjoy a meal or tea time at a café. Pets are welcome on the terrace as well, so it's not uncommon to see people with their dogs. Before visiting Harunire Terrace, we recommend checking to see if there are any events being held in the area when you're planning on visiting. Harunire Terrace hosts the Umbrella Sky during the rainy season in Japan (early June to mid-July), illuminations around Christmas, and Halloween-related events in autumn. In addition, there are many trendy shops and specialty stores to browse, so you might consider making a list of the shops you want to take a look at before visiting if you have limited time. Restaurants, Cafes, and Souvenir Shops at Harunire Terrace Photo：Chairs at Harunire Terrace, Karuizawa Harunire Terrace features 16 restaurants, cafes, and other eateries, as well as furniture and even souvenir shops. Sawamura is a bakery/restaurant that is popular on Japanese social media. They offer takeout, but many people sit in for lunch. The pasta lunch comes with delicious bread, and the juicy hamburgers are to die for! After grabbing some lunch, you can relax on the terrace and enjoy a delicious cup of coffee from Maruyama Coffee. There's also a bookstore attached to the restaurant, so you can relax while reading. Kawakamian is known for its delicious soba noodles as well as shrimp tempura, etc. If you visit the restaurant in the evening, consider indulging in some delicious sake with various dishes, such as grilled duck and their tasty pork tatsuta-age (a marinated, fried pork dish). MORIASOBI is a shop that sells furniture and sundries, but it also serves meals and is open for tea time. We recommend trying the hot chocolate here, a popular drink on Japanese Instagram, which is made with foamed milk and melted chocolate. Izumiya (和泉屋) is a great shop for souvenirs and is popular for its delicious Japanese- and Western-style confections. The cheesecake, called "Hanjuku Cake," has an irresistible soufflé-like texture. The shop also offers a lineup of cute products for sale. Other Things to Do in Karuizawa Here are a few places to check out in the Karuizawa area: Karuizawa Shiraito Falls From Nakakaruizawa Station, the closest station to Harunire Terrace, you can take a train to Karuizawa Station. From there, there are regularly schedules buses that will take you to the Shiraito no Taki Bus Stop (白糸の滝). It's an approximately 25-minute bus ride to the base of the trail, and then a 5-10-minute hike to the waterfall itself. Hours: Open 24 hours. ※Shops at the base of the trail: 9:00 am - 4:00 pm (Some shops may be closed in the case of inclement weather) Admission Fee: Free Karuizawa Prince Shopping Plaza An outlet mall at Karuizawa Station with a number of shops, cafes, and restaurants selling everything from brand-name goods like Prada to snowboarding gear, such as Burton. The plaza features a large pond at its center making it feel like a Japanese strolling pond garden. Hours: 10:00 am - 7:00 pm Admission Fee: 720 yen (bus fee) Tombo no Yu Located just up the road from Harunire Terrace, Tombo no Yu (Tonbo no Yu) is a hot spring that opened in 1915. It's a great place to relax after a long day of sightseeing. Be aware that there can be long lines to enter during holidays, such as Golden Week. Hours: 10:00 am - 10:00 pm Admission Fee: Adults: 1,350 yen, Children (Ages 3 - Elementary school students): 800 yen Additionally, if you're looking to get some exercise and enjoy the weather on a sunny day, you can rent a bike from a bike rental shop and ride around the Karuizawa area exploring the scenery, visiting shops, etc. The bike rental shops in the area have guidebooks with biking routes of various lengths to help you navigate the area according to your schedule as well. Keep in mind that the bikes can be fully rented out during holiday seasons, so it's a good idea to make a reservation in advance. A Brief Introduction to Karuizawa Karuizawa, located in the mountains of south-eastern Nagano, inside Joshin'etsu Kogen National Park, sits at an elevation of 850 to 1,000 meters above sea level and is a popular summer resort in Japan. Karuizawa has long been popular as a vacation home for many famous and wealthy people because of its easy accessibility (approximately 1 hour from central Tokyo). Summary of Karuizawa Harunire Terrace, Umbrella Sky The Hoshino area of Karuizawa also offers accommodations and hot springs, so you can enjoy the upscale Karuizawa lifestyle in a relaxing setting surrounded by nature. Japan's rainy season has a tendency to make people feel gloomy, but Karuizawa's Harunire Terrace will welcome you with colorful umbrellas, lush greenery, and flowers. If you're feeling down this rainy season, consider visiting Harunire Terrace to cheer yourself up. You're sure to feel refreshed! [Official website] Harunire Terrace - The Hoshino Area of Karuizawa [TripAdvisor] Harunire Terrace

Nara To-kae 2022 Video Introduction This video, titled "The 23rd Annual Nara To-kae (Video)" (第23回なら燈花会映像), was uploaded by "Nara To-kae PR" (なら燈花会の会工法). During Nara To-kae, a summer festival held in Nara, candles are arranged all over Nara Park, which is surrounded by World Heritage sites, creating a fantastic atmosphere within the city. The History of Nara To-kae Photo：Nara To-kae Nara To-kae was held for the first time in 1999. The lump of wax that forms at the base of the candle wick in the shape of a flower is called "Toka" (燈花, lit 'Light Flower'), and it is said to bring good luck when it forms. It is an event in which candles are lit to wish for the happiness of the people who visit. Nara To-kae is a major summer event in Nara, attracting more than 900,000 participants each year, although in recent years the event has been held without spectators due to the novel Coronavirus. Every year, many local companies sponsor the event, and depending on the amount of sponsorship, special offers, such as poster placement, are made. The festival is held in Nara Park, surrounded by World Heritage sites, such as Todaiji Temple, Kasuga Taisha Shrine, Kofukuji Temple, and Sarusawa Pond, for 10 days from early to mid-August, with candle lighting from 7:00 to 9:00 p.m. Each venue attracts a large number of visitors each year. No reservations are required to participate in Nara To-kae, but the official website makes the following requests. Please observe the following rules and manners when participating in the event. ・Please refrain from using tripods for photography. ・Please take your garbage home with you. ・Please do not feed the deer. ・Please do not park illegally. ・The event will be held even in light rain (may be cancelled if the candlelight goes out). ・Wheelchairs are not available for rent. Wheelchairs can be rented at the following locations: Nara Prefectural Government Tourism Bureau Tourism Promotion Division (TEL: 0742-22-3900 (Japanese Only)) Nara City Tourist Information Center (TEL: 0742-27-2223 (Japanese Only)) Kintetsu Nara Station Tourist Information Center (TEL: 0742-24-4858 (Japanese Only)) Things to Do at Nara To-kae 2023: Food Stalls, Photo Spots, and More Photo：Nara To-kae During Nara To-kae, a variety of food stalls and stores are crowded with visitors dressed in yukata. The entirety of Nara Park area is enveloped in a festive atmosphere, and Todaiji Temple, Ukimido, and Sarusawa Pond are popular spots for photography. Other popular spots include the 52 step staircase leading to the 5-story pagoda of Kofukuji Temple, Kofukuji Temple itself, and Kasuga Taisha Shrine. ・Ukigumo Enchi Candles are lined up all over the ground depicting the Milky Way, creating a fantastical atmosphere. This is a popular spot where visitors can make their wishes come true if they pray over each light. ・Asajigahara At Asajigahara, candles enclosed in bamboo stand in a row and light up the trees. Photo：Ukimido, Nara To-kae ・Ukimido Candles light up the area around Sagi-ike Pond where Ukimido is located. The surface of the water reflecting the night sky and soft candlelight is truly picturesque. ・Sarusawa Pond & the 52 steps Fireflies can be seen at Sarusawa Pond, and the surface of the water reflects the candlelight, creating a pleasant atmosphere. ・Kofukuji Temple Soft candlelight on the north approach accentuates the mysterious beauty of the temple grounds, creating a dignified atmosphere not seen during the day. ・Todaiji Temple Todaiji Temple is a world heritage site, and during the event the temple is transformed into an even more fantastic space by the lighting of the lanterns. ※8/13 and 8/14 only ・Kasuga Taisha Shrine Kasuga-taisha Shrine is lined with many lanterns and candles, offering a unique view. ※8/14 only Volunteers and Supporters of Nara To-kae Nara To-kae is looking for supporters as volunteers on the day of the event. These volunteers are indispensable for Nara To-kae, helping to guide visitors to the venue and providing information at various locations. One of the attractions of this event is that you can be involved in a historic event not as a visitor, but as a staff member. You'll be able to see how supporters operate and prepare for the event as well. [Video] 0:58 - Supporters managing and preparing for the event Summary of Nara To-kae Photo：Nara Rurie If you're looking for a Japanese summer event, consider checking out Nara To-kae. That being said, if you're looking for something during the winter months, there is also an event called Nara Rurie. This is a great winter event where visitors can participate in special memorial services and prayers at Kasuga Taisha Shrine and Todaiji Temple at night every February. The lights and other displays are truly stunning and great for taking photos. Nara To-kae attracts more than 900,000 visitors from all over Japan. Although not as spectacular as fireworks lighting up the night sky, the scenery created by the gentle and warm lights of the candles touches the hearts of many. For those interested in not only watching Nara To-kae, but also contributing to the event, there is also the option of becoming a supporter. In the video, you can see supporters of various ages. Being a supporter will make the event an even more memorable experience! ◆Nara To-kae◆ 【Address】547 Sanjocho, Nara-shi, Nara-ken 630-8244 Japan 【Telephone】0742-21-7515 【Event Period】August 5 - August 14, 2023 【Access】Please use public transportation to get to the venue as it is expected to be crowded during the event. Nearest station: Kintetsu Nara Station and JR Nara Station Bus stop nearest to each venue: Please board a bus bound for Kasuga Taisha-Honden (春日大社本殿行), City loop (市内循環), or Takahata-machi (高畑町行) at either Kintetsu Nara Station or JR Nara Station. [Bus Stop Names by Venue] ・Nara National Museum - Himuro Shrine (奈良国立博物館－氷室神社, Nara Kokuritsu Hakubutsu-kan - Himuro Jinja)/ National Museum Front (国立博物館前, Kokuritsu Hakubutsu-kan Mae) ・Ukigumo Enchi/Kasuganoenchi/Todaiji - Daibutsuden Kasuga Taisha Mae (浮雲園地/春日野園地/東大寺－大仏殿春日大社前) ・Asajigahara/Ukimido - Kasuga Taisha Omotesando (浅茅ヶ原・浮見堂－春日大社表参道) ・Kasuga Taisha - Kasuga Taisha Honden (春日大社－春日大社本殿) (Only buses bound for "Kasuga Taisha Honden" stop here)

Mt. Omuro Mountain Burning: Video Introduction This video, titled "2018 4K Mt. Omuro Mountain Burning" (2018 4K大室山・山焼き), was uploaded by "ATELIER ROCKY KALEIDOSCOPES GALLERY." The Mt. Omuro Mountain Burning is an exciting event where an entire mountain is engulfed in flames. The Mt. Omuro Mountain Burning, the symbol of Ito, Shizuoka, is not only a popular tourist attraction, but also a traditional winter event that heralds the arrival of spring in Izu. Please take a look at the aerial footage of showing the magnificent Mt. Omuro Mountain Burning via drone. Mt. Omuro and the Popular Anime Movie 'Your Name' Photo：Mt. Omuro, Ito, Shizuoka Mt.Omuro is a dormant volcano sitting at an elevation of 580m in Ito, Shizuoka, in Japan's Tokai region. At the top of the mountain is a 300-meter-wide, mortar-shaped crater left over from an eruption 4,000 years ago. Because of its unique shape, the mountain attracted a lot of attention among fans of the move Your Name, who speculated that it might have been the model for the mountain in Itomori, where Taki and Mitsuba, the main characters in the movie, met. Mt. Omuro Sengen Shrine is located halfway up the crater and is dedicated to the god of easy childbirth and matchmaking, and enshrines the Five Dhyani Buddhas. The entirety of Mt. Omuro is known as a power spot. Mt. Omuro is a popular tourist spot for climbers. For environmental conservation, climbers use the Mt. Omuro lift to climb to the top of the mountain. There is also a popular tour where you can walk around the mortar-shaped mountaintop while enjoying the spectacular view. You can also enjoy archery and delicious food on the summit as well, and there are also steamed buns with cherry blossom leaves being sold there, as well as a variety of other local specialties and souvenirs. Mt. Omuro is not only famous for its mountain burning, but is also known for its cherry blossoms in spring and foliage in autumn, so you can enjoy the beauty of Japan's four seasons year-round. Why Is Mt. Omuro Burned? The History of the Fiery Tradition Photo：Mt. Omuro mountain burning, Ito, Shizuoka The origin of the Mt. Omuro Mountain Burning dates back approximately 700 years. Initially, it was done for the purpose of improving the growth of high-quality thatch, which was essential for people's lives, and for the purpose of pest control. There are 2 types of thatch: Kogaya and Tawaragaya. Kogaya was used for thatched roofs, as fertilizer for growing wheat, and as feed for cows and horses. It is said that Tawaragaya was used to make charcoal bales for packing charcoal, as charcoal production thrived on Mt. Omuro. The Mt. Omuro Mountain Burning has remained as a traditional event throughout its history, thanks to the efforts of the local people. In order to preserve the tradition of the mountain burning as a sightseeing event, as well as to pass on the skills of mountain burning, the local people formed the Mt. Omuro Mountain Burning Preservation Society, which has continued to protect the event to this day while paying close attention to safety. Mt. Omuro Mountain Burning Festival 2023 Schedule Photo：Mt. Omuro mountain burning, Ito, Shizuoka Mt. Omuro Mountain Burning will be held on Sunday, February 12, 2023. Mt. Omuro Mountain Burning is held on the second Sunday in February every year, and will be held with the same schedule this year. However, the Mt. Omuro Mountain Burning may be postponed due to weather conditions on the day of the event for safety and other concerns. For safety reasons, the event is postponed on windy days as well, so please check the official Ito Tourist Association website before visiting for sightseeing purposes. The 2022 festival was postponed until March 13. The fires on Mt. Omuro are lit from 9:30 a.m. at the bowl and from 12:00 p.m. for the rest of the mountain. Since it's expected to be crowded on the day of the event, it's recommended that you get there early. Also, if you want to participate in the lighting of the whole mountain burning with torches, participants are chosen on a first come, first served basis every year. However, no dates, numbers or prices have been announced at this time. If you would like to participate, please check the information in advance. The Best Spots to Watch the Mt. Omuro Mountain Burning! Photo：The Mt. Omuro lift, Ito, Shizuoka Mt. Omuro Mountain Burning is a grand-scale event in which the entire mountain is engulfed in fire, so you can pretty much watch it from anywhere in the area. If you want to experience the flames up close, we recommend going near the Mt. Omuro lift. This is also the place where torches are lit for the all-mountain burning, so you can directly feel the heat and hot air from the burning mountain, making it a powerful spot. If you want to enjoy a panoramic view of the Mt. Omuro Mountain Burning, we recommend Sakura no Sato. The parking lot is nearby, and it's only moderately crowded, so it's suitable for those who want to see the whole mountain. Also, if you have children with you, they may get bored while waiting for the mountain burning. In such a case, we recommend visiting Izu Shaboten Zoo. In the large park, you can enjoy not only the panoramic view of the mountain burning, but also 1,500 kinds of cacti, feeding animals, and petting capybaras. Your kids are sure to have a great time here! Summary of the Mt. Omuro Mountain Burning Mt. Omuro is a symbol of Izu, Ito, and Izu Kogen. From the top of the mountain, you can enjoy a superb view of Mt. Fuji that's great for taking photos. Mt. Omuro Mountain Burning is a spring tradition known as one of the 8 Views of Ito. Ito Onsen is also nearby, so consider stopping by after watching the Mt. Omuro Mountain Burning. We hope you enjoy this traditional event on the Izu Peninsula! 【Official Website】Mt. Omuro 【TripAdvisor】Mt. Omuro

Dondo Yaki at Oyama Dairi Park: Video Introduction This video, titled "Dondo Yaki Jan. 1, 2016 4K, Oyama Dairi Park" (どんど焼き（4K動画、2016年1月11日、小山内裏公園）), was uploaded by "Hiroharu Ashikaga" (足利宏治). This video introduces Dondo Yaki, a traditional Japanese event that involves lighting bonfires at the end of the New Year holiday in Japan. Have you ever heard of Dondo Yaki? It's a Japanese fire festival that actually has different names in different regions of Japan. Some of these names include Sankuro, Sagicho, Donto Yaki, and Doso Jin Matsuri. This video introduces the fire festival being held at Oyama Dairi Park in Machida, Tokyo, in Japan's Kanto region. During the event, leaves from the kaya tree (Japanese nutmeg-yew) are piled up like a mountain on a scaffold made of wood and bamboo so that the bonfire burns well. Then, Japanese New Year's decorations, such as Shimekazari (a rope decoration to ward off evil and bring luck) and Kadomatsu are placed on top of the bonfire and burned. The bigger the bonfire becomes, the more spectacular it looks. It's a sight you don't want to miss! [Video] 1:38 - Flames Rising Into the Sky What Is Dondo Yaki? The Meaning of the Name and the History of the Traditional Japanese Festival Photo：Dondo Yaki The history of this Japanese Fire festival dates back to Japan's Heian Period (794 AD - 1185 AD). Dondo Yaki is an event to see off the god of the New Year as he returns to the sky after visiting people's homes during the New Year's holiday. Dondo Yaki is a fire festival with a long history, in which local people burn lucky charms and decorations, such as shimekazari and kadomatsu, as well as kakizome, to ward off bad luck for the year and to wish for a good harvest, prosperous business, family safety, good health, and the prosperity of one's descendants. There are various theories as to the origin of the name Dondo Yaki. One suggests that it was named after the crackling noise of bamboo when it burns, which is "Don!" in Japanese. Another suggests that it comes from the word "Don don moeru" (どんどん燃える, lit "to burn gradually"). There is also a custom of skewering mochi (rice cakes), mikan (mandarin oranges), and dango, and roasting them over the bonfire during Dondo Yaki. Doing so is thought to keep one healthy throughout the year and protect them from the cold, and is a custom that has been passed down from generation to generation in almost every region of Japan. When and Where Is Dondo Yaki Held in Tokyo? Here's a look at some Dondo Yaki events held in Tokyo. If you're in Tokyo for the New Year's holiday, consider dropping by this historic New Year's event as part of your sightseeing trip. ■Torikoe Shrine – Tondoyaki Location: 2 Chome-4-1 Torigoe, Taito City, Tokyo 111-0054 Event Dates: January 8, 2022 (Sat) ※The temple office will be open from January 5 (Wed) to morning on January 8 (Sat) Hours: Starting at 1:00 p.m. (Hours are subject to change depending on the weather) [Access] A 5-minute walk from Kuramae Station (Subway) An 8-minute walk from the West Exit of JR Asakusabashi Station A 10-minute walk from Shin-Okachimachi Station on the Oedo Line Photo：Hanazono Shrine, Shinjuku, Tokyo ■Hanazono Shrine – Yunohana Shinji (Yuhana Matsuri) Location: 5 Chome-17-3 Shinjuku, Shinjuku City, Tokyo 160-0022 Event Dates: Saturday, January 8, 2022 Hours: Starts at 11:00 a.m. [Access] Exit E2 of Shinjuku Sanchome Station on the Tokyo Metro Marunouchi Line, Fukutoshin Line, and Toei Shinjuku Line A 7-minute walk from the East Exit of Shinjuku Station on the JR, Odakyu, and Keio Lines ■Tama River Riverside – Dondo Yaki Location: North side of the picnic plaza in Futakotamagawa Park Event Dates: January 16 (Sun.), 2022 (tentative) ※Decorations to be burnt can be brought to the festival from January 9 (Sun.) to January 16 (Sun.), 10:00 a.m. Hours: Previous years started at 11:00 a.m., but this year is scheduled to start earlier [Access] A 15-minute walk from Futakotamagawa Station on the Tokyu Den-en-toshi Line and Tokyu Oimachi Line From Futakotamagawa Station, take the bus bound for Seijo Gakuen-mae (成城学園前), get off at Yoshizawa (吉沢), and walk 5 minutes ■The Komae Shoshun Festival's Dondo Yaki Location: Tamagawa Ryokuchi Park 4 Chome-1 Inogata, Komae, Tokyo 201-0015 Event Dates: January 9, 2022 (Sun) ※Decorations to be burnt can be brought to the festival on January 8 (Sat) 14:00-16:00, January 9 (Sun) from 8:00- Hours: [Opening ceremony] Starting at 9:30 - [Ignition] from 10:00 - [Access] A 5-minute walk from Izumi-Tamagawa Station on the Odakyu Line Things to Keep In Mind When Participating in Dondo Yaki Dondo Yaki is considered a children's festival, and the main participants are elementary and junior high school students. In the video, you can see children lighting the fire as well. [Video] 0:07 - Children Lighting the Fire Children are considered messengers of the gods and carry out a series of events, such as inviting good luck and exorcising bad luck for the year. In local communities across Japan, children and adults share roles in organizing events, and through New Year's festivities, local people bond together and residents of all ages deepen their mutual understanding of one another and interact with one another. Each community has its own rules, customs, and legends. We recommend checking the details of each event before participating. Summary of Dondo Yaki, a Traditional New Year's Event in Japan Photo：A New Year's bonfire Dondo Yaki has a long history dating back to the Heian Period (794-1185). What better place to renew your New Year's resolution than in front of a blazing bonfire? In Japan there's also a traditional Japanese candy called Dondon Yaki (どんどん焼き). Both of them have similar names, and both are products of an important Japanese tradition with a long history. Dondo Yaki is held only once a year, at the end of the New Year's holiday. We recommend visiting with your family if you have the chance!

The Yokohama Red Brick Warehouse Christmas Market: Video Introduction This video, titled "4K Yokohama Christmas Illumination｜Night View of Yokohama｜Sightseeing｜Christmas Market｜Red Brick Warehouse｜Minato Mirai" (4K Yokohama Xmas illumination 横浜クリスマスイルミネーション night view of Yokohama 横浜夜景 観光 クリスマスマーケット 赤レンガ みなとみらい), was uploaded by "Discover Nippon." Known for its beautiful night views, Yokohama's Minato Mirai area in Yokohama, Kanagawa, in Japan's Kanto region, is a popular tourist destination that you don't want to miss when sightseeing in Yokohama. The area is dotted with many noteworthy attractions, including Yokohama Landmark Tower, various commercial facilities, and theme parks, where visitors can enjoy the beautiful scenery unique to the port city. It's also one of the most popular date spots in Japan. Among the many tourist attractions in Yokohama's Minato Mirai area, the Yokohama Red Brick Warehouse is by far one of the most popular. Especially during the Christmas season, a Christmas market, like one you'd find in Germany, is set up with a large Christmas tree. The entire area is great for taking photos, especially for Instagram. Enjoy the atmosphere of the traditional Christmas season at the Yokohama Red Brick Warehouse Christmas Market, which is only open during the winter month! Events at the Yokohama Red Brick Warehouse Photo：The Yokohama Red Brick Warehouse Christmas Market The Yokohama Red Brick Warehouse is a historic building constructed in the late Meiji (1868 - 1912) and early Taisho periods (1912 - 1926) as a model warehouse for the national government. It was reborn as a cultural and commercial facility in 2002, retaining its original appearance, and continues to be loved by visitors today. The Yokohama Red Brick Warehouse has a perfect location facing the sea, where visitors can enjoy shopping at trendy stores and dining at delicious restaurants. But that's not all! A wide variety of events are regularly held throughout the year, and each one draws attention. One of the most popular events is the Yokohama Red Brick Warehouse Christmas Market. The event began in 2010 at the Yokohama Red Brick Warehouse Event Plaza and Red Brick Park because of its German connection, and will be held for the 13th time in 2022. Reminiscent of an authentic German Christmas market, the event attracts many visitors every year and has become the highlight of the Yokohama Red Brick Warehouse. The Yokohama Red Brick Warehouse Christmas Market – Attractions & Things to Do! Photo：The Yokohama Red Brick Warehouse Christmas Market The charm of the Yokohama Red Brick Warehouse Christmas Market is that visitors can enjoy an authentic German-style Christmas market. The symbol of the event, a real 10-meter-tall Christmas tree, will be lit up, and German-made wooden huts and decorations will adorn the venue as well. The variety of food and goods available at the venue is another highlight of the event. Visitors can enjoy authentic German cuisine, including grilled sausages and glühwein (mulled wine), as well as shopping for Christmas goods, European sundries, original mugs, and other goods that will make you feel like you're at a German Christmas market. This year, the Yokohama Red Brick Warehouse will celebrate its 20th anniversary and will reopen for the first time in early December during the event period. The new look of the Yokohama Red Brick Warehouse is sure to make the Christmas Market even more exciting than in previous years. Reservations for the Christmas Market and Illumination Hours Photo：The Yokohama Red Brick Warehouse Christmas Market Below is the latest event information for the Yokohama Red Brick Warehouse Christmas Market, including the duration of the event, illumination hours, and reservations for paid days. Yokohama Red Brick Warehouse Christmas Market 2022 Event period: November 25 (Fri.) to December 25 (Sun.), 2022, for a total of 31 days Location: Yokohama Red Brick Warehouse Event Plaza and Red Brick Park Illumination hours: 4:00 p.m. to close ※The tree will be illuminated until 11:00 p.m. Please note that the Christmas Market is free of charge on weekdays from November 25 (Fri.) to December 16 (Fri.), 2022, but there is a 500-yen admission fee on weekdays after December 19 (Mon.) and on weekends during the period. Also, advance reservations and online payment are required for paid days. By making reservations in advance, you can enjoy the soothing Christmas illumination at your leisure. Advance reservations are scheduled to begin around early November, so be sure to check before visiting. Summary of the Yokohama Red Brick Warehouse Christmas Market The collaboration of the historical building of the Yokohama Red Brick Warehouse, one of Yokohama's most popular tourist attractions, and the Christmas Market is a winter tradition in Yokohama that can only be seen during the Christmas season. Enjoying the fantastic illumination at the Yokohama Red Brick Warehouse Christmas Market while enjoying tasty Christmas food and unique goods is guaranteed to make for a memorable experience. Experience an unforgettable time at the exciting Yokohama Red Brick Warehouse Christmas Market this Christmas in Japan! 【TripAdvisor】Minato Mirai 21, Yokohama

A First in Japanese History! No.1 in the Popular Online Game "FORTNITE"! Are you familiar with e-sports? E-sports is a form of sport competition using video games. Players compete to show their mastery of the game and win massive prize pools. E-sports has actually been around for decades, but thanks to advances in technology and more and more people being connected to the internet, it has seen a surge in growth in the last 10 years, with professional teams popping up all over the globe. Japan actually has vocational schools that train e-sports players, and sends world class athletes to compete on the world stage. This video introduces Ruri, the first Japanese player to win the Australian Open Summer Smash 2020, a new tournament with 30 million yen (~$280,000 USD) in prize money at stake. What is FORTNITE? Source :YouTube screenshot Let's talk about the rules of FORTNITE, and how it's played. Starting at 0:38 in the video, you can see up close footage of the fast-paced, action-packed gameplay. FORTNITE is an online battle royale game with a twist. One of the main features of the game is called "building" which allows players to use materials they've found throughout the map to construct tactical structures that allow them to outmaneuver their opponents. The online battle royale game "FORTNITE," is developed by Epic Games in the UK. Supported platforms are PC, PlayStation 4, XboxOne, Nintendo Switch, iOS, and Android. There is a "save the world" mode where players work together to fight off waves of monsters, and a "battle royal" mode where players fight against one another to be the last remaining. Because of FORTNITE's in-game transactions, and depictions of violence, the game has a PEGI rating of 12+. The actual game is a 3rd person shooter where characters spawn into a map and have to scavenge the area for weapons, armor, and materials. Players start every match as a blank canvas, forcing them to adapt to their environment and make do with what they have. The story is post-apocalyptic in nature, with 98% of the world's population being eradicated by a sudden storm and the emergence of monsters called "husks." The player's goal is to fight to survive and save the human race. The "Australian Open Summer Smash 2020" Featuring FORTNITE Source :YouTube screenshot Cross-platform online games like FORTNITE, which are also compatible with handheld devices, have evolved remarkably in recent years. Ruri, a member of the Japanese professional team "CrazyRaccoon," managed to win such a large scale tournament at just 16 years old. The "Australian Open Summer Smash 2020" was held at a tennis stadium in Melbourne, Australia, also used for the Australian Open tennis tournament every February. The crowed roared when the Japanese team secured their victory. The second day's solo match (a charity tournament) also drew a large crowd where spectators gathered to see the winner's Victory Royale. The rules are simple- the last player standing wins. Summary of Japan's Australian Open 2020 Fortnite Win Source :YouTube screenshot Ruri is just 16 years old but is already an accomplished player that managed to win a prestigious tournament with a massive prize pool. Players also have rankings, similar to other sports, and it's expected that we'll see Ruri aiming for #1. In the world of e-sports, opportunities for young players like Ruri continue to grow. People even talk about the future of e-sports, saying that it's only a matter of time before it's a part of the Olympics. 【Official Website】Fortnite - Play Now for Free | Official Site | Epic Games https://www.epicgames.com/fortnite/en-US/home?lang=en-US

Cosplay Culture! This video, titled "IS JAPAN COOL? COSPLAY," introduces the world's biggest cosplay event, called the "World Cosplay Summit," held annually in Japan. Many participants from all over the world come to participate in the event. Cosplay is where you dress up as your favorite character from anime, manga, cartoons, etc. Cosplay started around 1980, and became popular worldwide in the 90's. That being said, it's a relatively new Japanese culture. But where did cosplay begin? Let's take a look! Japan's Globally Popular Contemporary Culture Source :YouTube screenshot Japanese manga, anime, video games, light novels, and other works that are unique to Japan and not found in other countries are called are unique Japanese cultures and these pieces are called "COOL JAPAN" by people from different countries. Cosplay is classified as a "pop culture" or "sub culture." Its unique worldview, creative storytelling, and unique characters have attracted young people from all over the world, as exemplified by the cosplayers in the video. The cosplayers in the video are from South Korea, Brazil, Finland, England, Holland, Russia, Germany, Austria, France, Italy and more! Successful Cosplay Events All Over Japan! Source :YouTube screenshot In addition to the World Cosplay Summit in the video, there are several different cosplay events in Japan. One such event is called "Character Comic Market." At this event, people gather to publish their own manga and set up sales booths for uniforms and costumes. Many anime, manga, and game fans aren't content just watching their favorite shows or playing games, but enjoy actually becoming their favorite characters. In this way, they can immerse themselves in an alternate world by wearing colorful wigs, clothing, contact lenses, and more. You can see some impressive cosplays in the video as well: Saint Seiya (0:07), Zelda (0:23), Kamen Raider (0:38), Shaazak from Gundam (0:39), Goku from Dragonball (1:02), Hatsune Miku (1:13), and Evangelion (1:14). As cosplay became popular globally, the word "Cosplay" is now a word that expresses the idea of "Cool Japan." There are many online cosplay stores where you purchase your very own costumes as well. The Pluralistic Phenomenon of Cosplay Culture Source :YouTube screenshot As you see in the video, many cosplayers take pictures of themselves and other cosplayers, and cosplay cafes are always crowded with cosplay fans. In Japan, "Enako" is one of the most popular cosplayers. Many famous cosplayers have their own fan bases as well. This is the pluralistic phenomenon of cosplay culture. Summary of Japanese Cosplay Culture When cosplay first started, it was considered a temporary subculture among nerds. In the 80's and 90's, people began watching old cartoons and anime to relive their childhood memories and pass them on to the next generation. Even today, the Japanese government considers cosplay a part of Japanese pop culture. Cosplay now plays an important role in Japan's economy, and is a very important part of Japanese culture. 【Official Website】Cosplay Summit | [Official] World Cosplay Summit https://www.worldcosplaysummit.jp/en/

What is the V. League? The V. LEAGUE is a newly established domestic volleyball league in Japan. The sponsor is the Japan Volleyball League Organization (V. League Organization) and they officially started from the 2018/2019 season. The predecessor was, the V. Premier League which mainly consisted of corporate structured teams. After the league license system was implemented, they became one step closer to creating a professional volleyball league. Volleyball has been a very popular sport In Japan since its inception. However, due to recent concerns about the difference in ability when compared with other countries who have professional organizations, it is considered imperative that the Japanese teams turn professional in order to surpass the top leagues of other countries. The Structure of V. League Source :YouTube screenshot 【 DIVISION 1 (V1) 】 V. League's top tier league The top-ranking club teams who hold an S1 license. There are 10 men's teams and 12 women's' teams registered in this league. Unfortunately, in the 2019 season, the number of women's teams dropped to 11. 【 DIVISION 2 (V2) 】 This division is comprised of 12 Men’s teams and 8 Women’s teams that have S1 or S2 qualifications. 【 DIVISION 3 (V3) 】 This division is the lowest ranked division in the V. League. In the 2018/2019 season, 4 Men's teams will be participating in this division. 【V Challenge Matches】 If a V2 division team places 2nd or higher, they will have a competition with a lower ranking V1 division team for a chance to replace them in the upper division. Source :YouTube screenshot Both men's and women's winning club teams earn the right to participate in the Asian Club Volleyball Championships. This footage is a promotional video showing the Grand Final's competition in which the winners are determined. The “Panasonic Panthers” can be seen from 0:28 and the “JT Thunders” from 0:47. The V. League is still a newly established Japanese league and cannot be said to be a completely pro league. As a matter of fact, the Japan Volleyball League Organization was holding competitions such as the V Summer League Women’s Tournament separate of the V. League up until 2019. At this tournament, popular women’s club teams were divided into Eastern and Western divisions and competed for rankings. Check Out the Official V. League Website! Source :YouTube screenshot On the official V. League website, you will be able to see information such as dates, how to buy tickets, rankings, results of tournaments, the status of the V. league Final Stage tournament, introductions to club teams and players, and information about access to tournament venues as well. Also, you will be able to see the competition through V. League TV, or one of the sponsors, the DAZON app (a smartphone app dedicated to sports), and tune into the live stream or recorded coverage. If you are a volleyball fan, definitely check it out. Summary of Japan's V. League Photo：Volleyball The volleyball V. League is a league that was newly established in 2018, however, you can see the energetic plays and successes of the all-star players on both the men's and women's teams; players like Kimura Saori (Toray Arrows) who retired from the Women’s National Team representing Japan. Her departure is sorely missed by avid fans. In the 2020 league tournament, the participation of 3 men’s teams and 1 women’s team has been decided. This marks the start of a new history in the world of Japanese sports.

The All Japan Triathlon Miyakojima! This is a video of the 35th All Japan Triathlon Miyakojima, released by Ryukyu Shimpo. 1,700 athletes participated in the rigorous competition in Miyakojima, Okinawa, on April 14th, 2019; Some aiming for glory, and others aiming to just finish. Starting at Yonaha Maehama Beach, athletes rushed through the 3 events, swimming, biking, and running through the 202.195 km course, to the goal at Miyakojima City Track and Field. With voices of cheering spectators on the roadside giving them strength. The Miyakojima Triathlon Photo：Traithlon A triathlon is a sport that involves swimming, cycling, and running. The international distance (used at the Olympics) is 51.5 km long. However, the Miyakojima triathlon is not a normal triathlon. It is classified as an Ironman Triathlon, and covers a total distance of 202.195 kilometres- 3 km swimming, 157 km cycling, and 42.195 kms running. The origin of its name is the combination of the suffix tri, meaning 3 in Greek, and athlon which means "an event." The history of triathlons is relatively short, with the world’s first triathlon held in San Diego, California in 1974. After that, events, such as the World Championship series and World Cup, started to be held in various places. Triathlons Are a Brutal Sport! Photo：Triathlon There are other kinds of triathlon, for example the standard distance mentioned earlier, as well as the Sprint-Distance (27.75km), and the Ultra-Triathlon (226km). The Triathlon, which consists of 3 events- swimming, cycling, and running, is a brutal race, and the name "Ironman" fits it quite well. Because of this, the All Japan Triathlon Miyakojima is also called "STRONGMAN." The All Japan Triathlon Miyakojima Photo：Traithlon・Ikema Bridge The All Japan Triathlon Miyakojima is an event held in Miyakojima, a popular resort location in Okinawa. As seen at 0:08 in the video, the race starts from Shimoji Miyakojima City Yonaha Maehama Beach, known as a diving spot, and the course goes around Miyakojima’s sightseeing spots, finally finishing at Miyakojima City Track and Field, as seen from 1:10 in the video. Summary of the All Japan Triathlon Miyakojima When traveling to Ishigakijima or Miyakojima, be sure to stop by the All Japan Triathlon Miyakojima course! If you are interested in sports, you can train for the All Japan Triathlon Miyakojima, and get wetsuits and marathon clothing in preparation! 【Official Website】All Japan Triathlon Miyakojima https://tri-miyako.com/en/

Enjoy Watching This Pokémon Card Game Introductory Video! This video, titled "The Official Pokémon Card Game PV (Pokémon Card Players)" (【公式】ポケモンカードゲームPV　「ポケモンカードプレイヤーズ」) introduces the Pokémon card game which is hugely popular among people of all ages. Thanks to publicity from Youtubers and social media, the Pokémon card game is known worldwide and it would be no exaggeration to say that it is the most popular card game of our time. In this article, we'll introduce you to this new Pokémon card game in detail. How It's Played Source :YouTube screenshot Pokémon cards originated from the video game known in Japanese as Pocket Monsters or Pokémon as it's called in English, published by the Pokémon Company (originally it was published by Nintendo). Card versions were made of the monsters (or Pokémon) that appear in this game to turn it into a 2 player trading card game. Cute monsters, such as Pikachu that appear in the video game, have gained a large number of fans worldwide and the game was recently made into the popular smartphone application "Pokémon GO" which was all the rage for a while. Here is a list of the minimum number of items you will need to play the card game: ・Pokémon card deck (60 cards) ・1 Pokémon coin ・Damage counter (as many 10, 50, and 100 damage counters as possible) ・Poison marker/Burned marker (2 or 3 of each) ・GX marker (1 or 2) Source :YouTube screenshot If you're playing in an official competition, a special mat is also required. The rules are very simple: all you have to do is defeat your opponent's Pokémon in battle using your own Pokémon. Each time you win, you can take a prize card (there are normally 6 prize cards in total). The first player to draw all 6 prize cards wins. Please check the official website for a more detailed description of how to play the game. Can Complete Beginners Start Playing This Pokémon Card Game? Source :YouTube screenshot Trading card games may sound hard to get into at first, but the Pokémon card game is so simple anyone can start playing. For those who haven't collected the 60 cards that normally make up a deck, you can purchase a Starter Set which contains coins and markers among other things, that will allow you to start playing right away! You can also practice playing online via a simulation on the official Pokémon card game website. We highly recommend trying it out before you purchase your first Pokémon cards! From 0:06 in the video, you can see a woman playing with Pokémon cards, and a father and son from 0:18, and at 0:46 you can see a large-scale Pokémon card championship with elementary school students competing against one another. The Pokémon card game is truly a game loved by all generations. Pokémon Card Game Introduction Summary Source :YouTube screenshot Summary of the New Pokémon TCG Causing a Stir Each time a new Pokémon game is released, new character cards based on the Pokémon in the game are also released. The most recent versions are Sun and Moon which was then followed by Sword and Shield. Pokémon is a card game that is constantly evolving. The Pokémon card game is now popular not only in Japan, but all over the world to the extent that there are now Pokémon World Championships being held every year. As you can see from the video, the Pokémon card game brings together people of all ages. Why not relive your childhood and enjoy playing this exciting game? 【Official Website】Pokémon Card Game Players Club https://event.pokemon-card.com/

The Tokyo Marathon and Japan's Men's Olympic Team! This time we'll look at the video, "[Fuji T.V. Official] Tokyo Marathon 2020 Live From 9:00 A.M. on Sunday, March 1, 2020!!" (【フジテレビ公式】東京マラソン2020＜コース紹介＞2020年3月1日(日)午前9時00分から生中継!!), which introduces the course of the Tokyo Marathon held in 2020. The Tokyo Marathon is a competition first held in 2007. In 2013, it was designated as a World Marathon Majors competition. It is one of the 6 major marathons in the world, along with Boston, London, Berlin, Chicago, and New York. Photo：Marathon The Tokyo Marathon is more than just an invitational sports event for invited runners and the general public; it is also an important event that serves as a qualifying event for major international sporting events, such as the Olympics and the World Athletics Championships. In Japan, the Fukuoka International Marathon and the Lake Biwa Mainichi Marathon also serve as selection events to select athletes that will compete in international competitions. However, in 2020, having been designated as a World Athletics Platinum Label Road Race, it became Asia’s highest level marathon event, and in 2019, 38,000 runners participated in the event. The Tokyo Marathon was awarded Gold Label certification by the IAAF's rating system in 2010, making it one of the largest civic engagement races, on par with New York City. The 2020 men's marathon was touted as a one-on-one race between Suguru Osako and Yuta Shitara. However, in the end, Suguru Osako finished 4th, making him the highest placing Japanese runner and confirming his participation in the Tokyo 2020 Olympics. The Tokyo Marathon Course Source :YouTube screenshot The course of the Tokyo Marathon has been drastically changed since its predecessor, the Tokyo International Marathon. The main feature of the course is that it is a flat, high-speed course with few ups and downs, with runners running on public roads in the center of the city. This video gives an overview of the course and we'll go over it below. ・[Video 0:23]　A five meter stretch starting from the front of the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building in Shinjuku with an elevation difference of 35 meters. ・[Video 0:33]　A section along Sotobori-dori and Chuo-dori to reach the 10km point in Nihonbashi. ・[Video 0:40]　Running through Edo-dori, runners will pass the 15km mark of Asakusa/Kaminarimon ・[Video 0:48]　The 20 km mark of Monnakacho- the first turnaround point. ・[Video 0:59]　The decisive moment is the 30 km mark in Ginza. At this point, the pacemaker will drop out of the race and the wheeling and the tactics begin. ・[Video 1:10]　The 35 km mark at Takanawa is the last turnaround point, and the strongest runners will use their last bits of energy for bursts of speed. Every year, it's an incredibly close competition. ・[Video 1:21]　The finish line of the course is in front of Tokyo station. The front runner will break through the finish line tape while being greeted by a large crowd and volunteer staff. The Tokyo Marathon is popular among international runners because, with the exception of the starting point, it is a flat course that allows for record breaking, and also takes in the sights of Tokyo from start to finish. For this reason, the number of applicants has been increasing every year, and for the 13th marathon, the general runners’ odds of being selected to run in the race was less than a 1 in 12 chance thus making it very difficult to enter. There are three race categories: the Men's and Women's Marathon, the Wheelchair Marathon, and the Junior and Youth Marathon, with the wheelchair marathon starting five minutes before the other events. Summary of the Tokyo Marathon Course Photo：Marathon Due to the outbreak of the novel coronavirus, the Tokyo Marathon Foundation considered cancelling the 2020 marathon, but decided to hold only it with only elite athletes being considered for selection, with participation by the general public cancelled. The 2020 Tokyo Marathon was controversial, because although an entry fee is paid prior to the race, the terms state that no refunds would be given in the event of cancellation. Because the Tokyo Marathon is a race with traffic restrictions on public roads, there are fears that the date of the race could affect the capital's logistics infrastructure. However, because it is a top-level marathon race even by world standards, it has a positive economic effect, and the event continues to grow yearly. We're looking forward to Tokyo Marathons of the future! 【Official Website】Home Page｜Tokyo Marathon 2020 https://www.marathon.tokyo/en/ 【Tripadvisor】Tokyo Marathon https://www.tripadvisor.com/ShowUserReviews-g14133673-d8820386-r441644983-Tokyo_Marathon-Nishishinjuku_Shinjuku_Tokyo_Tokyo_Prefecture_Kanto.html

インスタ映えするフラワーイベントFLOWERS BY NAKED 2018の紹介動画 こちらの動画は「nippon.com」が公開したフラワーイベント「flowes by Naked 2018」を紹介した動画「Digital Art on Ancient Walls: Kyoto’s Nijō Castle Lit Up in High-Tech Show | nippon.com」です。 2018年11月からのおよそ一か月間、京都の世界遺産・二条城で、花をテーマにした参加者体験型のプロジェクション・マッピングが開催されました。 インスタ映えすることでも話題になった空間アート。 今回は、このFLOWES BY NAKEDのイベントを手始めに二条城の魅力をお伝えします。 FLOWES BY NAKED（フラワーズ バイ ネイキッド） とは FLOWERS BY NAKED（フラワーズ バイ ネイキッド）とは、アーティスト村松亮太郎（株式会社ネイキッド代表）を筆頭に、花、オブジェ、映像、音楽、香り、そしてインタラクティブをメインコンテンツとした体験型イベントです。 プロモーションの一環としてテーマ曲である「輪舞曲」もリリースされています。 東京では日本橋で開催され、翌年には文化都市・京都でもイベントを開催。 京都・二条城は大政奉還の舞台にもなったことで有名で、おりしも2018年は大政奉還から150年の節目を迎えた年でした。 世界遺産・二条城の魅力 世界遺産・元離宮二条城は1603年に江戸幕府初代将軍・徳川家康により築かれた平城（ひらじろ）です。 平城とは山地ではなく平地に築かれた城のことで、二条城は京都市中京区にあります。 城全体が国の史跡に、そして二の丸御殿が国宝に指定されています。 動画では二の丸御殿のプロジェクション・マッピングが0:46から紹介されています。 二条城にもかつて天守閣がありましたが、天災により焼失。現在は天守台を残すのみです。 また、唐門は絢爛豪華な桃山時代の様式を残す貴重な門で、動画では0:13からデジタルアートの様子が映し出されています。 二条城は春になると京都のお花見処としてもおすすめの観光名所です。 桜の木が敷地内で50品目、300本も植えられ、素晴らしい景色を見せてくれます。 お土産屋さんでは、入場記念符が販売されており、二条城に来た記念におすすめです。 国際都市・京都の魅力 海外の観光都市ランキングでも上位を占め、人気のある京都は、日本の歴史が詰まった国際都市であり、二条城に限らずおすすめの旅行スポットがたくさんあります。 京都は交通アクセスも良く、駐車場やホテルも多いので、二条城に訪れたら、ホテルや旅館に宿泊して周辺エリアの探索もしてみることをおすすめします。 二条城から少し足を伸ばせば、陰陽師で有名な清明神社など穴場スポットもあります。 フラワーイベントFLOWERS BY NAKED 2018の紹介まとめ 二条城では桜のライトアップや、FLOWERS BY NAKEDのようなデジタルアートイベントが定期的に開催されています。 今後のイベント開催情報は二条城やFLOWERS BY NAKEDの公式サイトから確認できます。

Takekiri Eshiki - The Bamboo-Cutting Ritual of Kurama-Dera Temple! This video, titled "Kyoto Festival Bamboo Cutting Ritual at Kurama-dera (Takekirie)," was created by "Discover Kyoto." The video shows Takekiri Eshiki, a bamboo-cutting ritual at Kurama-dera Temple in Kyoto City, Kyoto Prefecture. The bamboo-cutting ritual has been carried out at Kurama-dera Temple for over 1,000 years, making it one of the oldest rituals in Kyoto. The monks dress in armor donned by the warrior monks of old, and energetically hack away at the thick bamboo stalks. You can hear the cheers from visitors to the temple as the monks perform the ritual. A Closer Look at Kurama-Dera's Bamboo-Cutting Ritual Source :YouTube screenshot The bamboo-cutting ritual is known in Japanese as "Takekiri Eshiki" (竹伐り会式). The ritual originates from a legend that Buen Shonin, a monk from the early Heian Period, was training on Mt. Kurama when a massive snake appeared. Through the power of Buddhism, the monk successfully defeated the snake. During the ritual, 4-meter-long and 10-centimeter-thick green bamboo is likened to the snake from the legend, and two groups of monks wield machete-like blades and compete to slice the bamboo in the shortest amount of time. The event also holds significance in that it expresses an appreciation for water, acts as a prayer to exorcise evil, and promotes triumph of truth. It is a soul-stirring and exciting tradition indeed. More About Kurama-Dera's Bamboo Cutting Ritual Source :YouTube screenshot The event kicks off with a performance by the children, as they dances in front of the main shrine building. Following this, the bamboo-cutting ritual is held by the monks. The Kurama monks are divided into the Omi (近江座, omiza) of Shiga Prefecture and the Tamba (丹波座, tamba-za) of Kyoto and Hyogo Prefectures. The monks who win the race to slice the bamboo pole, crowned the shoubu-giri (勝負伐り), finish the ritual by letting out a quick victory cry while running towards the head temple. It is said that between the Omi and the Tamba (Tanba), the winning region will be blessed with a bountiful harvest. From 4:16 in the video, you can see the monks hacking away at the bamboo stalks. Other Popular Sightseeing Destinations in Kyoto! Photo：A woman with a Japanese umbrella walking through Kifune Shrine If you're visiting Mt. Kurama, definitely take the chance to stop by Kifune Shrine (貴船神社, kifune jinja). After enjoying the beautiful natural scenery at Kifune Shrine, where the deity of water is enshrined, we recommend trying the dining experience over the riverbed! In addition, the views of Kurama-dera Temple and Kifune Shrine during the fall foliage season are also exceptional. There are many other scenic spots in Kyoto, such as Kiyomizu-dera Temple (清水寺, kiyomizu-dera) and Arashiyama (嵐山), so consider dropping by these as well if you get the chance. Summary of Kurama-Dera Temple's Bamboo-Cutting Ritual Photo：Kurama-dera Temple, Kyoto The bamboo-cutting ritual of Kurama-Dera Temple is a magnificent event with a history of more than 1,000 years. If you want to fully experience Kyoto in early summer, head out to the verdant Mt. Kurama and experience Kurama-Dera Temple's bamboo-cutting ritual! ◆Kurama-Dera Temple◆ 【Address】1074 Kurama Honmachi, Sakyo Ward, Kyoto City, Kyoto Prefecture 【Access】Walk from the Kurama Station on the Eizan Electric Railway (叡山電車鞍馬駅) 【Admission Fee】Admission to the temple is free, but entrance to the Reihoden Museum costs 200 yen, and contribution to the protection and upkeep of the mountain is 300 yen. 【Tripadvisor】Kurama-dera Temple https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g298564-d3444654-Reviews-Kurama_dera-Kyoto_Kyoto_Prefecture_Kinki.html