Highlights of Hanamomo no Sato in Nagano Prefecture This video, titled "JG☆☆☆4K 長野 花桃の里 Nagano,Peach Flowers at Hanamomo no Sato," was released by "JAPAN GEOGRAPHIC." It showcases Hanamomo no Sato, an attractive place for sightseeing due to its beautiful peach and cherry blossoms. In this article, we'll introduce Hanamomo no Sato in Nagano Prefecture! Enjoying Hanamomo no Sato With a Drive! Although Japan's bloom forecast is different every year, one thing that doesn’t change is that they always bloom by May. If you're thinking of planning a sightseeing trip, we recommend checking the blooming forecast between April and May. Hanamomo no Sato has a driving course that can be enjoyed through the windows of a car and is also called "Hanamomo Kaido" (はなもも街道, lit. "Peach Blossom Highway") in Japanese. Enjoy Hot Springs and the Charm of Hanamomo no Sato in Nagano Prefecture! On Hanamomo Kaido, there are two places to stay, Gessen and Hirugami Hot Springs, where you can take your time admiring the beautiful cherry blossoms in the surrounding area. In particular, Gessen is the venue for the "Hanamomo Festival" (花桃まつり, Peach Blossom Festival) from April 26 to May 7 each year. During the festival, the cherry blossoms and peach blossoms are lit up after 6:00 p.m., providing a picturesque nighttime view. There are also a variety of souvenirs you can purchase, such as goheimochi (rice cakes), so be sure to give them a try as well. Summary of Hanamomo no Sato in Nagano Prefecture In this article we introduced Hanamomo no Sato, one of the best places in Japan for viewing peach and cherry blossoms! Achi Village, known more commonly as "Hanamomo no Sato" (花桃の里, Peach Blossom Village) has one of the best nighttime views in Japan. There are also night tours available at Hanamomo no Sato, so be sure to take in the sights at night!

Spring Quartet – Cherry Blossoms Along the Banks of the Funakawa River: Video Introduction This video, titled "[SAKURA DRONE] Asahi, Toyama & Cherry Blossoms｜Drone Project 4K" ([SAKURA DRONE] Asahi-machi, Toyama-Ken & cherry blossoms｜富山県朝日町｜桜ドローンプロジェクト 4K), was uploaded by "Sakura Drone Project - Drone Entertainment Co." (桜ドローンプロジェクト - 株式会社ドローンエンタテインメント). Spring Quartet: A Collaboration in Nature Photo：Cherry blossoms along the Funakawa River, Toyama Prefecture In Asahi, Toyama, located in Japan's Koshin'etsu Region, there is a beautiful landscape referred to as the "Spring Quartet." This miraculous landscape is created through a combination of the mountains of the Northern Alps, rows of cherry blossoms along the Funakawa River, tulips, and rape blossoms. You can enjoy the beautiful Japanese spring woven by nature in Toyama Prefecture. Beautiful Cherry Blossoms Along the Banks of the Funakawa River This video features drone footage of Spring Quartet. It begins with beautiful footage of cherry blossoms and rape blossoms against a backdrop of mountains. The video of the rows of cherry trees along the banks of the Funakawa River shows 280 Someiyoshino cherry trees from the sky and various other angles that only drone photography can provide. [Video] 0:14 - Rows of Cherry Blossoms From the Sky [Video] 1:05 - Flying Through the Cherry Blossoms The cherry blossoms usually bloom in early April in Toyama Prefecture, but be sure to check the blooming conditions if you want to visit at the best times. Full bloom was mid-April in 2022. Toyama Life, Toyama Prefecture's local information website, has published information on the best times to visit Asahi Funakawa Spring Quartet. The rows of cherry blossoms along the Funakawa River are illuminated at night during the blooming period. Visitors can also enjoy bonfires and nighttime cherry blossoms, make it a very memorable event. Spring Quartet Events and Initiatives Photo：Cherry blossoms along the Funakawa River, Toyama Prefecture An annual cherry blossom festival is held at the cherry blossoms lining the banks of the Funakawa River, and musical events are also held. The Spring Quartet 2022 Instagram Photo Contest was also held this year. The photo contest seems to be held every year, so consider participating and taking photos in some of the beautiful spots you can find in the area. In addition, to help the tulip bulbs by the cherry blossoms lining the banks of the Funakawa River grow bigger, a tulip flower-picking team is being recruited. This is an effort to pick the flowers and preserve the beautiful scenery for years to come. In addition, there will be other things to enjoy, such as rice paddy art. Summary of Spring Quartet Be sure to check out the beautiful Japanese scenery of cherry blossoms along the Funakawa River at the Spring Quartet if you still haven't yet. If you're planning on going to the event, remember to look up the best times to see the cherry blossoms so you can get the most out of your sightseeing trip. To reach the Funakawa River cherry blossoms, shuttle buses from Asahi General Hospital and Asahi Cultural and Sports Center are available on Saturdays and Sundays. Note that parking near the cherry blossoms is only available on weekdays. The beautiful and uniquely Japanese scenery of Asahi Funakawa, where you can enjoy rows of cherry blossoms, rape blossoms, and tulips against the backdrop of Japan's Northern Alps, including the Asahi and Hakuba Mountains, awaits your arrival! 【Official Website】Asahi Tourism Association / Asahi Funakawa Spring Quartet https://www.asahi-tabi.com/sijuusou/ 【TripAdvisor】Funakawa River Cherry Blossoms https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g1121157-d13442353-Reviews-Funagawa_Berisakura_Namiki-Asahi_machi_Shimoniikawa_gun_Toyama_Prefecture_Hokur.html

日本一の渓谷・山梨県の「昇仙峡」紹介動画について こちらの動画は「FUJISAN DRONE BASE - 富士山ドローンベース」が公開した「絶景 空撮 昇仙峡 金櫻神社 | Kanazakura-jinja Shrine, Shosenkyo Gorge, Kofu, Yanamashi」です。 こちらの動画は日本の桜の名所・昇仙峡の金櫻神社を空撮した映像です。 2分ほどでご覧になれる映像なので、 ・日本の桜の人気スポットを知りたい ・日本の寺院や鳥居と一緒に桜を観たい という方にオススメです。 日本が誇る観光名所、昇仙峡の金櫻神社の魅力について紹介していきます。 昇仙峡とは？日本一の渓谷周辺の豊かな自然を紹介 昇仙峡は山梨県甲府市にある渓谷です。 渓谷とは谷間や山に挟まれた川のある場所のこと。 国の特別名勝に指定されています。 昇仙峡は「全国観光地百選」渓谷の部では第1位、平成百景では第2位と日本でも有数の観光地です。 新緑に色づく山々と澄んだ水のコントラストは筆舌に尽くしがたい美しさ。 動画では上空からドローン撮影した金櫻神社や昇仙峡を囲む自然の美しさを体感できます。 パワースポットとしても有名な金櫻神社 寺院の魅力に迫る 昇仙峡の上に鎮座するパワースポット「金櫻神社」。 2000年前に建立されたとされる由緒ある寺院です。 金峰山の頂点に位置しています。 本殿や元の昇り龍・降り龍は残念ながら焼失してしまいましたが、現在では復元されたものを拝むことができます。 御神宝はこの地で発掘された水晶「火の玉・水の玉」。 動画でご覧になれるような桜と本殿をどちらも眺めることができるのは春のわずかな時期。 金櫻神社の周辺のおすすめは？ 日本屈指の美しい桜の開花を眺めることができる金櫻神社。 近くには夫婦木神社や水晶峠のヒカリゴケ洞穴などの観光スポットも。 夫婦木神社で神木に夫婦仲円満を祈るのもおすすめです。 御朱印帳の受付もしています。 動画ではドローンによる撮影のため、普段なかなかご覧になることの出来ない絶景を見ることができます。 穴場の観光スポット昇仙峡 金櫻神社へのアクセス方法 昇仙峡は山梨県甲府市にあります。 甲府駅からバスで30分の「昇仙峡口」で下車。 成田駅からは特急を利用して3時間ほど。 金櫻神社の美しい桜が観られる！日本一の渓谷昇仙峡紹介まとめ 日本一の渓谷と呼ばれる昇仙峡の金櫻神社。 参拝国の特別名勝としても知られ、お花見の季節には多くの観光客が訪れます。 「まずはどんな観光スポットか知りたい！」という方は、こちらの動画で桜の季節の金櫻神社のお花見を楽しんでみてはいかがでしょうか。

長野県信州新町の「ろうかく梅園」について こちらの動画は「haruyuki onoue」が公開した「信州新町のろうかく梅園2019・4K」です。 こちらの動画では長野県信州新町の「ろうかく梅園」をご紹介します。 4Kで撮影された「ろうかく梅園」の梅の花の映像は非常に美しいのでぜひ御覧ください。 「ろうかく湖」は信州新町の犀川の中に作られた人工の湖です。 その「ろうかく湖」に架かる橋を渡ると長野県が誇る名所信州新町の「ろうかく梅園」が見えます。 4ヘクタールの梅園では竜峡小梅という品種の梅を生産しています。 満開の梅は紅白のコントラストが絶景です。 更に、夏には花火大会が行われるなど四季折々のイベントが行われています。 楼閣梅園の梅の見頃 信州新町「ろうかく梅園」の開花状況は長野市のホームページにて確認できます。 例年の見頃は3月下旬から4月頃上旬になります。 また、長野県には同様に伊那梅園という梅園もあり、こちらは2万坪に38種類もの梅が7,000本が植えられ、「ろうかく梅園」と並んでお花見の名所となっています。 こちらの梅園は標高850ｍの高地にあり、平地にある梅よりも遅い開花時期で鑑賞することができます。 梅肉エキスなどの梅に関するお土産も販売しています。 6月〜7月には梅の実を収穫する体験も行っているので様々な時期に訪れても楽しめます。 信州新町「ろうかく梅園」でジンギスカンを食べよう！ 4月の初旬には「ろうかく梅園花祭り」が行われます。 花まつりの中で人気のグルメが信州新町名物のジンギスカンです。 焼肉や農産物・特産品なども販売されるのでお花見に合わせてこれらを楽しむのもおすすめです。 「ろうかく梅園」の花まつり期間中ではジンギスカンセットも販売されており、ござ・ガス・コンロ・鉄板などを貸し出ししているので手ぶらでジンギスカンを堪能しながら梅の景色を楽しむことができます。 信州新町は古くから羊の飼育をしており、そのためジンギスカン料理も有名になりました。 信州新町のジンギスカンはあらかじめお肉を漬け込んでおくのが特徴で、お店ごとに異なる味付けを比べてみるのも楽しいかもしれません。 「ろうかく梅園」へのアクセス 「ろうかく梅園」へのアクセスは長野方面から国道19号で信州新町川中島バス営業所先を左折して1分の場所にあります。 無料駐車場があるのでそちらを利用しましょう。 長野ICからは車で40分、新幹線では北陸新幹線長野駅からバスで45分、その後徒歩で10分ほど。 また周辺には善光寺や戸隠神社奥社などの歴史ある穴場スポットもありますよ。 長野県信州新町の「ろうかく梅園」紹介まとめ 長野県信州新町のろうかく梅園は全国にある梅の景勝地でもランキング上位の観光地です。 温暖な気候の春のはじまりに紅白それぞれの特徴を備えた梅とジンギスカンを楽しんでください！

This video, titled "Chikumagawa Fureai Park, Where Double-Flowered Cherry Trees and Peaches Are in Full Bloom - 4K Footage" (八重桜や花桃が咲き誇る千曲川河川公園・4K撮影), was released by "haruyuki onoue." Chikumagawa Fureai Park in Obuse, Nagano Prefecture is a popular spot where beautiful flowers bloom in spring. Due to the high altitude of Nagano Prefecture, the temperature is cooler, and the blossoming of the double-flowered cherry trees takes place from late April to around Golden Week (the first week of May). At this time of year, the bright pink peaches and the eye-catching yellow rape blossoms also bloom, creating a spectacular view. The many petals of the double-flowered cherry trees and peaches are gorgeous and make for great Instagram photos. Many visitors come to Chikumagawa Fureai Park to enjoy the late spring.

Sakura no Toorinuke – The Cherry Blossom Passage at Japan Mint in 2022: Video Introduction This video, titled "Cherry Blossom Passage at the Japan Mint Bureau in 2022 (Filmed in April, 2022)"｜(【おうちで通り抜け】令和4年造幣局「桜の通り抜け」(2022年4月撮影)), was uploaded by "Japan Mint." In April 2022, the Japan Mint Bureau in Osaka "Sakura no Toorinuke," an annual cherry blossom viewing event, for the first time in 3 years. This video was created so that those who could not come to the event could still enjoy the cherry blossoms. Enjoy this video showing the lovely cherry blossoms at the Japan Mint Bureau in Osaka! A Brief Introduction to Osaka, Japan Osaka, located in central Japan, is known for its delicious street food and exciting nightlife culture, as well as famous tourist attractions like Dotonbori, Shinsekai, and Universal Studios Japan. Being located 2.5 hours south of Tokyo via bullet train, the weather is also generally a bit warmer than Tokyo's. Many people often ask whether Tokyo or Osaka is better to visit, but it really depends on what you're looking for. Osaka is considered to have nicer people and fun nightlife activities, such as clubbing and bar hopping, and while Tokyo still has this, the culture is not as rich. Tokyo tends to be on the sharper side of things and offers a wide range of tourist attractions due to its sheer size. How the Japan Mint Bureau Become a Famous Cherry Blossom Spot in Osaka Photo：Japan Mint Bureau, Osaka Sakura no Toorinuke, a passage of cherry blossoms at the Japan Mint Bureau in Osaka, is a popular cherry blossom viewing spot that attracts many visitors every year. In April 2019, more than 580,000 people visited the event in one week! The area where the Japan Mint Bureau is now located has long been known as a scenic spot for cherry blossoms in Osaka. During the Edo period (1603-1868 A.D.), cherry trees were collected and grown at the storehouse mansion of the Todo Clan, a samurai clan that ruled under the Tokugawa Shogunate. In the Meiji Period (1868-1912), those cherry trees were transplanted at the Japan Mint Bureau in Osaka. In 1883, the cherry blossoms, which could only be viewed by employees of the Japan Mint Bureau, were opened to the public for a few days during peak bloom at the behest of the then Mint Bureau Director. The event came to be known as Sakura no Toorinuke (桜の通り抜け, lit 'Cherry Blossom Passage'). The cherry blossom viewing area is limited to one week in mid-April, and visitors can view the cherry blossoms on a 560-meter-long one-way path along the riverside from the South Gate to the North Gate on the Japan Mint Bureau's premises. Hanami (cherry blossom viewing) along the Japan Mint Bureau's "Cherry Blossom Passage" has become a springtime tradition in Osaka. Japan Mint Bureau Cherry Blossoms in 2023. Illumination Events and Other Cherry Blossom Information Photo：Cherry blossoms at the Japan Mint Bureau, Osaka As of April 2022, the Japan Mint Bureau in Osaka has 335 cherry trees of 138 varieties. Most of them are satozakura (East Asian Cherries) cultivated for ornamental purposes, and are most beautiful later into the cherry blossom season. Among the 138 varieties, there are rare varieties such as Benitemari, Otemari, and Kotemari, whose flowers bloom in dense clusters like temari (a traditional Japanese toy), and Yoroizakura, which have white flowers. New varieties are added every year as well. [Video] 1:19 - Gyosho, a New Variety Added in 2022 [Video] 2:15 - Iyokiku, a New Variety Added in 2022 Every year, the Japan Mint Bureau in Osaka picks one species of flower and crowns it the "Flower of the Year." Be sure to keep an eye out for it when you visit! [Video] 0:21 - Fukurokuju (福禄寿), the 2022 Flower of the Year Every year, the cherry blossom passage at the Japan Mint Bureau in Osaka is lit up at sunset with paper lanterns and gas lamps giving it a relaxing atmosphere. Information for the 2023 illumination event has yet to be announced, so be sure to check the Japan Mint Bureau official website before visiting. [Video] 2:51 - The Cherry Blossom Light Up The Best Time to See Cherry Blossoms at the Japan Mint Bureau in Osaka 2023 + How to Apply Photo：Sakura no Toorinuke, Japan Mint Bureau, Osaka The best time to view the cherry blossoms at the Japan Mint Bureau in Osaka is from early to mid-April. The Sakura no Toorinuke cherry blossom passage is held for one week only during this period when the cherry blossoms are in full bloom. The blooming of the cherry blossoms is predicted based on past blooms, as well as weather and temperature. The date and time of the event is announced around mid-March each year based on the cherry blossom forecast. Just like the 2022 event, the 2023 event will likely require advance reservations (first-come, first-served). To apply in advance, you will need to sign up online by following the procedures on the dedicated Sakura no Toorinuke application page on their website. Details will be announced on the Japan Mint Bureau's official website around mid-March, so please be sure to check it out! Pick Up a Coin Set or Medal to Commemorate Your Trip to the Japan Mint Bureau Cherry Blossom Passage Coin sets and souvenir medals produced by the Japan Mint Bureau in Osaka are also available for purchase. The coin set consists of six unused coins, ranging from 1 yen to 500 yen, manufactured in the same year, and a nameplate with the year of manufacture. Proof coinage sets, in which the coins' surfaces are finished with a special technique to create a mirror-like finish, are also available. The 2022 proof coinage set's nameplate and the commemorative medals (gold, silver, and bronze) for the cherry blossom passage feature the Fukurokuju (the flower of the year). On the front of the coin set's nameplate are the words "桜の通り抜け" (Sakura no Toorinuke) and an illustration of cherry blossoms, and on the back are the year of manufacture and the Chinese zodiac sign for the tiger. The cover case was designed with the "flower of the year" Fukurokuju. We're looking forward to seeing what the design will be for 2023! An official announcement on how to purchase will be made in March. Tourist Attractions Near the Japan Mint Bureau in Osaka In addition to being a great spot for viewing cherry blossoms, the Japan Mint Bureau is also very conveniently located. Osaka Tenmangu Shrine is a 10-minute walk from the Japan Mint Bureau, and Osaka Castle can be reached in under 30 minutes by foot or by bus. Located just down the road from the Mint Bureau is the Mint Museum, where visitors can learn about the production of Japanese coinage, which is also free of charge. If you're looking for things to do in Osaka in spring, definitely consider adding the Japan Mint Bureau to your itinerary. Spring in Japan Spring in Japan means cherry blossoms, and in Japan, the cherry blossoms are appreciated with "Hanami," the Japanese word for "cherry blossom viewing." Whether it be cherry blossom parties with friends or simply enjoying them on their own, spring in Japan almost completely revolves around the cherry blossoms and their bloom season. It's not uncommon to see people enjoying picnics outside at parks with cherry blossoms and there are often festivals and other events held to celebrate their arrival each spring as well. If you're in Japan during spring, be sure to participate in these events for yourself and experience a significant part of Japanese culture! Summary of Cherry Blossoms at Osaka Mint Bureau Photo：Sakura no Toorinuke, Japan Mint Bureau, Osaka The Cherry Blossom Passage at the Japan Mint Bureau in Osaka is a springtime tradition in Osaka that is looked forward to by many people, including both local residents and tourists. Every year, new varieties of cherry blossoms are introduced and the design of the souvenir coin set is updated, making the cherry blossom passage an exciting event. The voluminous double-flowered cherry blossoms are great for taking Instagram photos as well! Check out all of the amazing cherry blossoms at the Japan Mint Bureau in Osaka! [Official Website] Japan Mint Sakura no Toorinuke, Osaka [TripAdvisor] Japan Mint Sakura no Toorinuke, Osaka

Introducing Some of the Best Cherry Blossom View Locations in Kyoto! This video, titled "4K JAPAN, Cherry Blossoms in Kyoto, Kyoto, Sightseeing, Travel, Hanami, Full Bloom, Sewaritei, Kiyomizudera, Arashiyama, Gion Shirakawa, Kyoto Botanical Gardens, Heian Jingu Shrine, Okazaki Canal, Byodoin, Kamogawa, Sakura" (4K JAPAN 京都の桜 Cherry blossoms Kyoto 京都 観光 旅行花見 満開 背割堤 清水寺 嵐山 祇園白川 京都植物園 平安神宮 岡崎疏水 平等院 鴨川 sakura), was uploaded by "Discover Nippon." It condenses the beautiful scenery of Kyoto into one video. As you can see from the video, there are many cherry blossom viewing spots in Kyoto, so get out there and see them for yourself! Explore Some of Kyoto’s Most Popular Cherry Blossom Locations! One of the most popular cherry blossom viewing spots in Kyoto is Kiyomizudera, a temple and World Heritage Site known for the "Stage of Kiyomizu," its three-story pagoda, and Hojo Pond. The temple grounds can be seen from 7:33 in the video. Kiyomizudera also offers a special nighttime viewing that is truly fantastic. Photo：Cherry blossoms and Tatsumi Bridge in Gion Shirakawa, Kyoto The Gion Shirakawa Sakura Light-up is held at Gion Tatsumi Bridge in the Instagrammable Gion Shirakawa area, where approximately 40 weeping cherry trees are beautifully illuminated. There are many teahouses in the area, and you may be able to meet maiko and geisha while strolling around. If you want to enjoy a different experience during the cherry blossom season, check out the "Cherry Blossom Viewing Tea Ceremony" at Heian Jingu Shrine’s garden, featured at 6:15 in the video, or the Gagaku performance at the "Beni Shidare Concert." Okazaki Canal and Lake Biwa Canal in the vicinity, shown at 4:46, are also popular cherry blossoms viewing spots that are great for taking Instagram photos. Photo：Cherry blossoms along the bank of the Kamo River, Kyoto Also consider checking out the "Flower Corridor" on the Kamo Riverbank between Shichijo Bridge (七条大橋) and Sanjo Bridge (三条大橋), as well as Kamo River Park in Kamogawa, and Nakaragi no Michi between Kitayama Bridge (北山大橋) and Kitaoji Bridge (北大路橋). The Kyoto Botanical Garden located near Nakaragi no Michi features beautiful red tulips and is a must-see. On the other side of the Iwashimizu Hachimangu Shrine, there is a tunnel of cherry blossom trees along the Yodogawa River Park's Sewaritei Bank. This is shown at 2:53 in the video. At the Sewaritei Cherry Blossom Festival, you can enjoy cherry blossom viewing under roughly 1,500 cherry trees of various types, including Someiyoshino and Yamazakura. Be sure not to miss the Sakura-deai Visitor Center and the observation tower that were built on the bank in 2017. Photo：Cherry blossoms at Togetsukyo Bridge, Kyoto In the cherry blossom forests of Hirano Shrine and Haradani-en Garden, you can see rare varieties of cherry blossoms, including some with yellow or green petals. You can also see the cherry blossoms at Nakanoshima Park and Togetsukyo Bridge in Arashiyama along the Oigawa River, which can be seen at 9:37 in the video. There are also many other places in Kyoto that are perfect for walking around cherry blossoms and cherry blossom viewing, including Daigoji Temple, Byodoin's Phoenix Hall, and Hieizan Enryakuji Temple. Summary of Cherry Blossoms in Kyoto There are many cherry blossom viewing spots in Kyoto, from well-known landmarks to hidden gems. Be sure to check the cherry blossom forecast before your trip to Kyoto to see the cherry blossoms when they're in full bloom.

Azaleas at Nagushiyama Park, Sasebo: Video Introduction This video, titled "A Carpet of Azaleas at Nagushiyama Park" (長串山公園のツツジの絨毯) was uploaded by "NAGASAKISHIMBUNSHA." It's a drone video of 100,000 azaleas blooming at Nagushiyama Park overlooking the sea. The pink and red azaleas are in full bloom during spring. Take your time and enjoy the breathtaking beauty of these flowers! This article will provide basic information on Nagushiyama Park, as well as information on sightseeing in Sasebo and its highlights. Read on to learn more. An Introduction to Sasebo, Nagasaki Sasebo, located in northern Nagasaki, is the second largest city in Nagasaki, second only to Nagasaki City, and is a 2-3-hour plane ride south from Tokyo. It's a port city known for its famous Sasebo Burgers which are handmade and made to order, as well as various attractions, such as Huis Ten Bosch, the largest theme park in Japan, and other places like the Kujukushima Zoo & Botanical Gardens, etc. Being located far south of Tokyo, the weather is on average slightly warmer than Tokyo. Nagasaki Prefecture also has many tourist attractions to explore outside of Sasebo. Some things to do in Nagasaki include: ・Nagasaki Peace Park ・Nagasaki Atomic Bomb Museum ・Hashima Island (Gunkanjima) ・Nagasaki Shinchi Chinatown If you're traveling to Nagasaki and looking for things to do, Sasebo is definitely worth a trip and you could easily spend more than a day exploring the area. Sasebo is located around 2 hours north of Nagasaki City via train. Features of Nagushiyama Park in Sasebo, Nagasaki Photo：Azaleas at Nagushiyama Park, Saikai National Park, Sasebo, Nagasaki Nagushiyama Park is located near the summit of the 234-meter-tall Mt. Nagushiyama in Sasebo, Nagasaki, in Japan's Kyushu region. The azaleas, which now number approximately 100,000, were first planted by local residents in 1969. In the language of flowers, azaleas have the meanings "first love," "the joy of love," and "passion. It's no exaggeration to say that the warm passion of the local people has created the spectacular scenery we see today. There are many azalea viewing spots across Japan, but only here in Nagushiyama Park can you enjoy a view of the sea beyond the brilliantly blooming azaleas. From here, visitors to the park can enjoy a panoramic view of the northern Kujuku Islands and Hirado Island in the sea. [Video] 0:50 - The Southern Slope of the Park Overlooking the Sea Nagushiyama Park also has a campground, a 100-meter-long roller slide, and playground equipment for kids to enjoy. You can experience an entire day of fun-filled activities with your family or friends while viewing the azaleas and the blue sea. Dogs are also permitted in the park, so if you're traveling with your best friend, you'll have nothing to worry about. What Do Azaleas Bloom at Nagushiyama Park? Photo：Azaleas at Nagushiyama Park, Saikai National Park, Sasebo, Nagasaki The best time to view azaleas at Nagushiyama Park varies slightly depending on the variety of azalea. Kurume azaleas bloom from mid to late April, while Hirado azaleas bloom from late April to early May. Although there are slight variations, it's recommended to visit the garden from early April, when the azaleas start to bloom, to early May, when the azaleas are in full bloom. [Video] 1:12 - Hirado and Kurume Azaleas in Full Bloom According to information from the Visitor Center, the schedule for the Azalea Festival in 2023 is as follows: 2023 Azalea Festival Event Period: April 8 - 28 Hours: 9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. Closures: Open daily (during the Azalea Festival) Please note that the Visitor Center is usually closed on Thursdays. For information on blooming and events, please visit the official website. The annual Azalea Festival is quite popular and is expected to be crowded on weekends. It's recommended that visitors look up information on sightseeing and traffic congestion in the area before visiting. Tourist Attractions in Sasebo in Spring Photo：Flower fields at Huis Ten Bosch Below is a list of popular tourist attractions during spring in Sasebo, Nagasaki. Consider adding them to your itinerary! ●Huis Ten Bosch Enjoy the Flower Festival and delicious food at the largest theme park in Japan! ●Kujukushima Pearl Sea Resort A marine resort facility home to Kujukushima Aquarium Umi Kirara, which introduces the marine life of the Kujuku Islands, and sunset cruises on large pirate ships. ●Tenkaiho Observatory This observatory offers a 180-degree panoramic view of the Kujuku Islands, and is the most popular viewing platform in Sasebo. ●Miyajidake Shrine Miyajidake Shrine is a beautiful shrine with a brightly painted vermilion building that is said to bring good fortune, luck, prosperous business, and traffic safety. Enjoy spring in Sasebo with Nagushiyama Park and a host of tourist attractions! Summary of Spring Sightseeing in Sasebo and Azaleas at Nagushiyama Park In the video, you can see azaleas in full bloom overlooking the sea. Nagushiyama Park offers spectacular spring views, that can't be found anywhere else in Japan. The 100,000 azaleas, which were planted by the local people, represent the spirit of Japanese hospitality. We recommend staying at a hotel in the area and taking your time to explore the rich nature and international character of Sasebo in spring. You're sure to make some awesome memories here! ◆Nagushiyama Park, Saikai National Park◆ [Address] 〒859-6206 174-12 Shikamachi-cho Nagushi, Sasebo, Nagasaki pref. [Hours] 9:00〜18:00 (Admission until 17:00) [Admission] Free ※However, admission is charged during the Azalea Festival. Adults (high school students and older): 500 yen, Seniors (70+): 400 yen, junior high and high school students: 250 yen, elementary school students and younger: free [Parking] Available [Access] From Sasebo Station, take a bus bound for Hirado, change to a bus bound for Kusudomari at Sasa Bus Center, get off at Nagushiyama Azalea Park Entrance, and walk about 15 minutes. [TripAdvisor] Nagushiyama Park

◆東京都青梅市にある塩船観音寺の満開のツツジを紹介 こちらの動画は「AQUA Geo Graphic」が公開した「[ 4K UHD ] 塩船観音寺のツツジ - Azelea garden in Shiofune Kannon Temple - (shot on Samsung NX1)」です。 寺院や庭園など日本らしい趣きのある景色を楽しみたいと思っている方はいませんか？ 今回はそのような方に、今回は塩船観音寺で見られるつつじを紹介します。 こちらの記事では、東京の人気観光名所である塩船観音寺のつつじの魅力や、見頃の情報などを紹介します。 東京都青梅市にある塩船観音寺とは 美しい風景が特徴の塩船観音寺は、東京都の青梅市にあります。 とても古いお寺として有名で、大化年間（645年～650年）に開山したと言われています。 塩船観音寺は護摩堂を中心にすり鉢状の丘の斜面があり、その丘にたくさんのつつじが咲いています。 見頃の時期には「つつじ祭り」も開催され、多くの観光客が訪れます。 つつじ以外にも、あじさいや紅葉も鑑賞でき、四季折々の絶景を楽しめるおすすめのスポット。 東京都青梅市にある塩船観音寺は日本らしい景勝を楽しめる！ 東京都青梅市にある塩船観音寺は「花と歴史の寺」と言われており、四季折々の花と歴史ある文化財を鑑賞できます。 塩船観音寺では、つつじやあじさい、ヤマユリ、彼岸花、紅葉とさまざまな花が楽しめます。 その中でも特に綺麗なのがカラフルな色を鑑賞できるつつじです。 約2万本のつつじが塩船観音寺の境内の周りに咲きほこり、品種は約15種類もあります。 とても綺麗に手入れされているので、庭園としても楽しめます。 つつじの満開の季節は、塩船観音寺をとても美しく染め上げます。 赤、白、ピンク、紫などのカラフルなつつじを鑑賞できるインスタ映えスポットです。 東京都青梅市にある塩船観音寺のつつじの開花状況 東京都青梅市にある塩船観音寺のつつじの見頃は、例年4月中旬から5月上旬頃です。 開花情報については、塩船観音寺のホームページでご覧になることができるので、是非チェックしてください。 アクセス方法は、JR青梅線の「河辺駅」を降り、西東京バスか都バスに乗車し、「塩船観音入口」で下車します。 駐車場は3カ所あるので、車で訪れることも可能です。 東京都青梅市にある塩船観音寺のツツジ紹介まとめ こちらの動画は東京都青梅市の塩船観音寺のつつじを綺麗な映像でご覧になることができます。 日本らしい風情のある景色を楽しめる塩船観音寺。 東京観光で自然を満喫したいときに、塩船観音寺はおすすめのスポットです。

About the Video of Kawazu Cherry Blossom Festival If you're looking for a place where you can enjoy viewing cherry blossoms and feeling Japan's unique spring atmosphere, then look no further! There are many others just like yourself looking to relax among the cherry blossoms and enjoy the fresh spring breeze. Kawazu Cherry Blossom Festival, held in Kawazu, Shizuoka Prefecture is a festival where you can do just that. The beautiful 4K footage allows you enjoy the blissful atmosphere of the Kawazu Cherry Blossom Festival. Be sure to follow along as you read this article! Izu's Popular Kawazu Cherry Blossom Festival Photo：Kawazu Cherry Blossom Festival The Kawazu Cherry Blossom Festival, held in Kawazu, Izu, is a beautiful festival where you can see the town of Kawazu covered with pink cherry blossoms. Kawazu Sakura is a type of cherry blossom tree that starts blooming earlier than most other cherry blossom trees, starting from around early February to early March. The origin of Kawazu cherry blossoms dates back to 1955, when one of the local townspeople found a tree growing amongst the weeds in his back yard. Back then the trees were called "Komine Sakura," but were renamed to ‘Kawazu Sakura’ in 1974. The Kawazu Sakura is characterized by its large petals and pink color, and when the cherry blossoms are in full bloom, a flurry of falling cherry blossoms creates the most beautiful scenery. The Kawazu Cherry Blossom Festival is a popular festival that approximately one million tourists visit every year. People enjoy the festival by taking a walk along the river, or having a picnic in the park while drinking and enjoying food from food stands. It's often crowded so you might have to save a spot for a picnic beforehand. There are outhouses at the festival, along with regular restrooms throughout the park. Come experience the beautiful cherry blossoms at the Kawazu Cherry Blossom Festival! The Beauty of the Kawazu Cherry Blossom Festival Source :YouTube screenshot The Kawazu Cherry Blossom Festival in Kawazu, Izu is a must-see festival for anyone interested in cherry blossoms or Japan's beautiful scenery. The cherry blossoms can be enjoyed in various ways depending on the location and time. There are approximately 8,000 cherry trees in Kawazu and about 850 along the Kawazu River. During full-bloom, these trees showcase the beauty of Kawazu. The one along the the Kawazu river are especially beautiful. You can enjoy the beautiful cherry blossoms at full bloom along the river for more than 4 kilometers! We recommend that you try to find your own little secret spot to avoid the crowds. This video shows you the cherry blossoms in full bloom at various spots along the Kawazu River at 0:28. Was there anything that caught your eye? There are also places where the cherry blossoms are lit up at night as well. It's an impressive sight that you can only experience at night time. Be sure to check it out if you have the chance, as it's one of the best parts of the Kawazu Cherry Blossom Festival. There are also other cherry blossom festivals in the Kawazu area where you can see the cherry blossoms and rape blossoms in harmony with one another. Enjoy Authentic Japanese Cherry Blossoms in Kawazu Source :YouTube screenshot During the Kawazu Cherry Blossom Festival in Izu, there are several spots we recommend visiting to enjoy the beautiful cherry blossoms. As we mentioned above, one of the ways you can enjoy the cherry blossoms is with the illumination at night, shown at 5:02 in the video. Access to the cherry blossoms illumination is 20 minutes walking from Kawazu Station on the Izu Kyuko Line. It's an incredible scenec location, so don't forget to bring your camera! We also recommend going around and collecting your shuin stamp when visiting the Kawazu Cherry Blossom Festival. There's a red stamp that's only available during the festival at Seisoku Temple nearby, so be sure not to miss it! Enjoying both the cherry blossoms and collecting your red seal stamps will make for an unforgettable trip. Summary of Izu's Kawazu Cherry Blossom Festival The video, created by "Discover Nippon," is a beautiful 4K video that introduces the charm of the Kawazu Cherry Blossom Festival in Izu. If you're curious about the Kawazu Cherry Blossom Festival after reading this article, be sure to check out the video! If you love cherry blossoms or spring in Japan, then you'll love this festival! Enjoy the beautiful scenery of Kawazu! 【Official Website】Kawazu Cherry Blossom Festival Info｜Official Website https://www.kawazuzakura.net/ 【Official Website】Kawazu, Kamogun, Shizuoka, Japan Town Official Website http://www.town.kawazu.shizuoka.jp/

Yomogi mochi to Welcome Spring. But How Is It Made? This video shows you how to make Yomogi mochi, a traditional snack to welcome spring in Japan. Mugwort is a member of the daisy family and is an herb used all over the world, although its aroma and taste varies depending on where it is grown. Since ancient times, mugwort has been used to repel insects, as dye, and as a remedy for bronchitis and colds. Yomogi mochi can be found in wagashi (Japanese candy) shops in spring. Mugwort has also been used for a long time, but there are actually poisonous plants that are very similar to mugwort that you need to be careful not to pick. Some of them can be life-threatening in small doses, so be careful. Below is how you can make yomogi mochi, as shown in the video. 1. Add salt to boiling water and boil the mugwort for 30 seconds then soak in cold water. 2. Squeeze out the water and chop into small pieces. 3. Add 200g of adzuki beans and 600ml of water to a pot and put on high heat. 4. Once the water comes to a boil, strains the beans and return them to the pot. 5. Add another 600ml of water and put on high heat. 6. Once it comes to a boil, reduce the heat and boil it for 40 to 60 minutes, keeping it fluffy. 7. When you can squish the beans effortlessly, add 120g of beet sugar and a pinch of salt and stir. 8. If you're using brown rice, make sure it's polished. 9. Soak the glutinous rice in water for at least 8 hours. 10. Drain the water from the glutinous rice and steam it in a steamer for around 30 minutes. 11. Mix the glutinous rice and mugwort leaves and put it in a stand mixer for 10 minutes. 12. Flour and cut into 50g pieces. 13. Cut up the rice cake, roll it out flat, wrap it in anko, shape it and you're done! You need time to soak the glutinous rice in water, so you'll need to prepare it the day before. Nothing beats fresh, homemade yomogi mochi! Be sure to check out how it's made in the video!

COOL JAPAN VIDEOS is always holding photo contests. This time, we have selected photos that convey the beauty of Japan's Tohoku region from among those submitted to our past photo contests. From popular tourist attractions to picturesque shots of natural phenomena, we've got an amazing list of photos lined up for you to enjoy! 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 - Tohoku in Past Photo Contests  Ginzan Onsen (Yamagata Prefecture)  Risshakuji Temple (Yamagata Prefecture)  Fudosawa Bridge (Fukushima Prefecture)  Goshikinuma Ponds (Fukushima Prefecture)  Zao Fox Village (Miyagi Prefecture)  Okama Crater (Miyagi Prefecture)  An igloo (Yokote, Akita Prefecture)  Ashino Park (Goshogawara, Aomori Prefecture)  Tsutanuma Pond (Towada, Aomori Prefecture)  A white rainbow at Hachimantai (Hachimantai, Iwate Prefecture) - Features of COOL JAPAN VIDEOS Photo Contests - Current Photo Contest - Summary of Tohoku in COOL JAPAN VIDEOS Photo Contests Tohoku in Past Photo Contests We have picked out some amazing photos of Japan's Tohoku region from among the many wonderful entries that convey the charms of Japan. We'll also introduce some popular photo spots as well! Enjoy! COOLJAPANVIDEOS Photographer: もつ Location: Ginzan Onsen (Yamagata Prefecture) Highlights of Ginzan Onsen, a Popular Tourist Attraction Lined with wooden, multi-story Western-style inns, Ginzan Onsen has a retro-modern townscape reminiscent of Japan's Taisho period (1912-1926). The best time to visit Ginzan Onsen, which attracts photographers from all over the world, is during the snowy winter season (January to February). The landscape illuminated by the orange glow of gas lamps, essential for a nostalgic atmosphere, makes for a tasteful and chic photo. Onsen ryokan (hot spring inns) with open-air baths where visitors can bathe while viewing the snowy scenery are very popular. Enjoy the fantastic Ginzan Onsen covered with snow. A Video Article About Snowscapes in Japan Video article 7:26 Japan's Most Beautiful Snow-Covered Scenery and Popular Tourist Spots That'll Look Great on Your Instagram! The Country, Dyed in a Beautiful White, Shows a Different Face Than Most Are Used To YouTube COOLJAPANVIDEOS Photographer: Yuta Aihara Location: Risshakuji Temple (Yamagata Prefecture) Highlights of Risshakuji Temple, a Popular Tourist Attraction Hoshuzan Risshakuji Temple is the setting for the famous haiku poem Such stillness Sinking into the rocks The shrill of the cicadas by the master haiku poet Matsuo Basho in his travelogue The Narrow Road to the Deep North. The temple is also known as a 'yamadera' (mountain temple) and belongs to the Tendai Sect of Buddhism in Yamagata City, Yamagata Prefecture. Climb the narrow stairs to reach the top of the temple. The platform, which juts out from the cliff, offers a breathtakingly beautiful view and is a popular photo spot for visitors. A Video Article About Risshakuji Temple in Yamagata Prefecture Video article 3:32 1,015 Steps to the Top of Risshaku-ji Temple in Yamagata, Yamagata Prefecture. A National Site of Scenic Beauty, With a View That Moved Even the Famous Poet Matsuo Basho! YouTube COOLJAPANVIDEOS Photographer: 山川 さおり Location: Fudosawa Bridge (Fukushima Prefecture) Highlights of Tsubakuro Valley, a Popular Tourist Attraction Fudosawa Bridge spans the scenic Tsubakuro Valley along the Bandai-Azuma Skyline. In autumn, it's a spectacular spot to photograph the autumn leaves, and if the sky over Fukushima City is overcast, there is a good chance to see a sea of clouds. If the live camera on Route 115 shows clear views of Fudosawa and Jododaira, consider driving to the top of the clouds. We guarantee you'll take photos that will make you think you're in heaven. A Video Article About the Aizu-Tadami Koyo-go Steam Locomotive Video article 2:06 Aizu-Tadami Koyo-go - A Steam Locomotive Running Through Beautiful Autumn Foliage! Selected As One of the "Top Ten Railway Lines With Beautiful Autumn Foliage," This Train Still Runs As a Classic Steam Locomotive! YouTube COOLJAPANVIDEOS Photographer: めんま Location: Goshikinuma Ponds (Fukushima Prefecture) Highlights of Goshikinuma Pond, a Popular Tourist Attraction Goshikinuma is a group of lakes and swamps created by the eruption of Mount Bandai in Aizu. The water of the lakes come in a variety of colors, such as emerald green and cobalt blue, fascinating visitors and leading to the nickname the 'Lakes of Mystery." From mid-October to early November, the best season for viewing the autumn foliage, visitors are mesmerized by the colorful autumn leaves and the beautiful ponds. Aonuma, which has a more mysterious atmosphere than the other lakes, is especially recommended. The contrast with the autumn leaves is exceptional. A Video Article About Goshikinuma Video article 4:05 This Place Screams Instagram! The Cobalt Blue Waters of Fukushima's "Goshikinuma" Are Out of This World! YouTube COOLJAPANVIDEOS Photographer: だいだい@名前のつかない写真展 Location: Zao Fox Village (Miyagi Prefecture) Highlights of Zao Fox Village, a Popular Tourist Attraction Located in Shiroishi, Miyagi, Zao Fox Village is Japan's only zoo for foxes. The zoo has more than 100 foxes of various species that are raised free range, and visitors can see them from up close. The best time to visit is from spring to early summer, as holding a newborn fox cub is a popular activity. Visitors can capture the cute foxes in their natural habitat during a 2-3 hour stay. A Video Article About Zao Fox Village in Miyagi Prefecture Video article 4:58 Play With Adorable Foxes at Zao Fox Village in Miyagi Prefecture. This Facility, Where Approximately 100 Foxes Run Free, Is Sure to Make for a Memorable Experience! YouTube COOLJAPANVIDEOS Photographer: Syohei photography Location: Okama Crater (Miyagi Prefecture) Highlights of Zao's Okama Crater, a Popular Tourist Attraction One of the 100 Famous Japanese Mountains in Japan, Mt. Zao is located on the border between Miyagi and Yamagata prefectures. Okama Crater, a popular tourist attraction there, is a crater lake surrounded by three mountains and is a symbol of Zao, along with the famous ice monsters (ice-covered trees). Visitors can enjoy Okama Crater from late April to early November. Be sure to bring a jacket, as temperatures are low even during the summer months. According to locals, the recommended time to visit is in the morning, even on clear days. You may be able to see the stunning emerald green surface of the water. Please note that the dedicated road to the crater is closed during the winter. A Video Article About Zao in Yamagata Prefecture Video article 2:13 Zao - Where Fantastic Ice Trees Stretch as Far as the Eye Can See. Referred to as "Ice Monsters" This Destination in Yamagata Prefecture Is Very Popular Among Foreign Tourists YouTube COOLJAPANVIDEOS Photographer: 小西直昭 Location: An igloo (Yokote, Akita Prefecture) Highlights of the Yokote Snow Festival, a Popular Tourist Attraction The Yokote Snow Festival is said to have a history of approximately 450 years as a festival where people can enjoy igloos at a small New Year's event, and the Brahma dedicated to Asahi Okayama Shrine. Held annually on February 15 and 16, children serve amazake (sweet sake) and mochi (rice cakes) inside the approximately 80 igloos built in the city, while welcoming guests into the igloos. The candles lit in the igloos create a spectacular atmosphere. A Video Article About the Yokote Snow Festival of Akita Prefecture Video article 5:52 Enjoy the Pure White Snowy Landscape at the Traditional "Yokote Snow Festival" in Yokote, Akita Prefecture! Experience Warm Rice Cakes in a Giant Igloo and a Fantastical Silver World! YouTube COOLJAPANVIDEOS Photographer: Lily0321 Location: Ashino Park (Goshogawara, Aomori Prefecture) Highlights of Ashino Park, a Popular Tourist Attraction in Aomori Prefecture Ashino Park is said to be one of the best places on the Tsugaru Peninsula to enjoy the cherry blossoms. The best time to view the cherry blossoms is usually from late April to early May, when more than 1,500 cherry trees of all sorts of varieties can be seen in full bloom. The cherry blossoms blooming along the lakeside are so beautiful that they overwhelm onlookers. The scenery of Tsugaru Railway's an old-fashioned train 'Run Melos-go, named after a popular children's story, passing through the tunnel of cherry blossoms in full bloom creates a popular photo spot for those looking take pictures of the cherry blossoms. A Video Article About Popular Tourist Attractions in Aomori Prefecture Video article 2:59 After a Harsh Winter, the Beauty of Aomori's Spring, From the Mountains All the Way to the Sea, Shows Its Colors! Enjoy the Cherry Blossoms and Fresh Greenery of Aomori's Popular Sightseeing Destinations! YouTube COOLJAPANVIDEOS Photographer: こーさ | Kousa Kobayashi Location: Tsutanuma Pond (Towada, Aomori Prefecture) Highlights of Tsutanuma, a Popular Tourist Attraction Tsutanuma is a popular tourist attraction in Towada, Aomori, with its fiery red autumn leaves. On a day when the wind is calm, the reflection of the trees on the surface of the lake is truly breathtaking. To reduce traffic and protect the environment, advance reservations and a "cooperation fee" of 4,000 yen per car (including one driver) plus 2,000 yen per passenger are required to visit Tsutanuma when the autumn leaves are in season (October 20 - October 31, 2022, from 5 AM to 7:30 AM). A Video Article About Autumn Leaves at Tsutanuma in Hakkoda, Aomori Video article 3:13 Autumn Leaves in Hakkoda, Aomori - The Reflection of This Beautiful Red Foliage Is Poetic YouTube COOLJAPANVIDEOS Photographer: 山川 さおり Location: A white rainbow at Hachimantai (Hachimantai, Iwate Prefecture)） A White Rainbow A rainbow is a phenomenon that appears when sunlight is reflected and refracted by moisture in the air. The conditions for the appearance of a white rainbow are clear skies and fog, but they are rarely caught on camera. If you come across one of these rare white rainbows, be sure to take a photo. A Video Article About Towada Hachimantai National Park in Japan's Tohoku Region Video article 2:46 Superb Seasonal Views and Hot Springs! With Red Autumn Leaves in the Fall and Pure White Snow in the Winter, the Many Different Faces of Akita Prefecture's Towada Hachimantai National Park Make It One of Japan's Most Scenic Places to Visit! YouTube Features 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 March 2023] The 16th COOL JAPAN VIDEOS Photo Contest Theme: Tourist Attractions in Japan to Visit in Spring Submission period: March. 1, 2023 0:00 AM – April. 30 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) Tourist Attractions in Japan to Visit in Spring Summary of Tohoku in COOL JAPAN VIDEOS Photo Contests We hope you were able to experience the charm of Japan's Tohoku region through these past entries to COOL JAPAN VIDEOS photo contests. COOL JAPAN VIDEOS photo contests are not just about capturing the spectacular scenery of tourist attractions and rare natural phenomena, but also about capturing scenes from everyday life, meaning anyone can win a prize. 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. 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What Is Hay Fever? If you’re allergic to cedar pollen, just watching this video might cause you hay fever symptoms. The video, titled "スギ花粉の飛散 Cedar Pollen Dispersal ( Shot on RED EPIC High-speed )," is a super high-speed video that shows detailed footage of cedar pollen dispersing. It was created by "AQUA Geo Graphic." People with cedar pollen allergies show start to flare up just after watching some yellow cedar pollen be dispersed on TV commercials for anti-allergy medicine. It’s said that there are currently 25 million people with hay fever in Japan. The most common form of hay fever is cedar hay fever, but the number of people who suffer from other types of pollens, such as cypress, ragweed, and birch pollens, has been increasing rapidly, and countermeasures for hay fever are needed throughout the year. Treatment of Hay Fever Photo：A woman blowing her nose Is there any treatment for hay fever, which causes painful attacks every year when the pollen season arrives? In short, the only way to treat hay fever at its root is sublingual immunotherapy for cedar pollen allergies. In this treatment, a weakened cedar pollen pill is placed under the tongue and gradually taken into the body, in an attempt to get the patient’s body used to cedar pollen. The therapy takes more than 2 years and those who have severe hay fever attacks can have them during the treatment, so it’s not an effective cure for all, but it’s more than 60% likely to abate symptoms of cedar hay fever. For other types of pollen allergies, symptomatic treatment with medication or evacuation to pollen-free areas (Hokkaido and Okinawa) is necessary. Regarding anti-allergy drugs, the most effective ones are prescribed drugs, but over-the-counter drugs can be sufficiently effective as well if you act preemptively by using them before the pollen in the air is at its peak. The Causes of Hay Fever Photo：Cedar pollen Cedar pollen is called wind-borne pollen because it's dispersed by the wind. At the start of the video, you can see a large amount of pollen being dispersed by the wind on the branches of a cedar tree. According to the Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries, evergreen coniferous trees (cedar and cypress) are native to Japan, and their straight wood, which is not distorted, is suitable for use as lumber for wooden buildings, so large scale cedar plantations were established to revitalize the forestry industry after World War II, which led to major outbreaks of hay fever. The name "花粉症, kafunsho" ('hay fever' in Japanese), was first coined in October 1963, when the existence of allergic symptoms caused by cedar pollen was identified and presented at the annual meeting of the Japanese Society of Allergology in the fall of that year. The size of cedar pollen is just smaller than a heliozoan and can be seen with the naked eye using an optical microscope. Each cedar flower contains about 400,000 pieces of pollen, so during strong winds, large amounts are dispersed. When Do Hay Fever Symptoms Appear? Photo：Hay fever symptoms The Tokyo Metropolitan Government's Bureau of Public Health has been providing pollen information since 1985, and nowadays, the Japan Meteorological Agency and private meteorological forecasting services provide forecasts for the start of pollen dispersal and pollen distribution throughout the year. You can also check pollen forecasts for plants other than cedar, cypress, and ragweed on the Internet, so if you have hay fever, be sure to stay up to date. Even after December, when peak pollen dispersion has passed, early spring hay fever may come straight after the cold and flus of the year, so be sure to take countermeasures, such as keeping your room humid, ventilate and clean frequently, wash your hands, and gargle. Summary of Cedar Pollen and Hay Fever Cedar pollen allergies, which were once thought to be endemic in Japan, have spread, and are now common worldwide. Tomatoes can also worsen hay fever, so we recommend avoiding them during hay fever season!

Pacific Herring Spawning and Swarms: Video Introduction This video, titled "The Sea Turned White?! Drone Footage of a Pacific Herring Swarm!" (海が白くなる!? ニシン群来のドローン撮影に成功！), was uploaded by "Hidemi Imai" (今井秀美). In Obira, Hokkaido, the blue sea is dyed white as if milk has been spilled in it. This phenomenon is caused by herring swarms, which occurs when herring (in this case pacific herring), a fish heralding the arrival of spring in Hokkaido, spawn and fertilize eggs. A video shot from the sky captures the phenomenon that looks like a white sash on the blue sea. Large schools of pacific herring come to Obira to spawn, and you can see the beauty of life as they flop about the surface of the water. Check out the video to see the pacific herring swarm up close! What Kind of Place is Obira? Obira is a small town in western Hokkaido with a population of just a few thousand. It's located a few hours north of Sapporo via train, making it a bit of an out-of-the-way destination, but it's home to many tourist attractions. There are golf courses and surf spots, as well as facilities for learning about the local culture. In addition, there are ski resorts that can be enjoyed during the winter months, and campsites that can be visited during the summer. Obira is a nice destination to check out if you're looking for things to do in Hokkaido that are a bit more off the beaten path. Information about the Pacific Herring and the Causes and Conditions for Swarms in Hokkaido, Japan Photo：Pacific herring spawning The pacific herring (scientific name: clupea pallasii) is a silvery-white fish found mostly in the Pacific Ocean. Pacific herring are generally 30-35 cm (12-13 inches) long but can grow as large as 45 cm (~17.5 inches). Pacific herring feed on phytoplankton and zooplankton, and their natural predators are salmon, whales, seabirds, etc. Every year from February to March, the coast of the Sea of Japan in Hokkaido turns a milky white color. The pacific herring come to the coast in large numbers during spring, so much so, that they are said to herald the arrival of spring in Hokkaido. In the world of haiku, a type of Japanese poetry, the word "Nishin Kuki" (鰊群来, herring coming in large schools) is a seasonal word to symbolize spring. Herring swarms occur when herring come to the coast to spawn and fertilize eggs. The white colors are a phenomenon that occurs when males simultaneously fertilize eggs that have been laid on seaweed. In 1954, after being observed along the coast from Yoichi to Oshoro, a 20km stretch on the peninsula northwest of Sapporo, the pacific herring swarms were not observed again for many years. It wasn't until 1999 that the pacific herring swarms were observed in the area, for the first time in 45 years. In order for the herring swarms to occur, two conditions must be met: the sea must be calm during the herring spawning season, and the water temperature must be relatively high, around 5 degrees Celsius. In addition, the herring swarms seem more likely to occur on cloudy days from February to April. When and Where to See the Pacific Herring Swarms Source :YouTube screenshot The herring swarms are a phenomenon seen during the spawning season, which, for the pacific herring in Japan, is from late January to early May, and February to March is said to be the most active season. In addition, since spawning often takes place at night, the ocean can be seen turning milky white around dawn, disappearing around noon. This means that you have a higher chance of seeing the phenomenon during the morning. The places where herring swarms can be seen are the coasts of Hokkaido along the Sea of Japan and within Ishikari Bay. In Otaru, herring is synonymous with spring. If you want to see the herring swarms, we recommend visiting the Otaru coast from February to March! However, because it's a natural phenomenon, it's not always possible to see the pacific herring swarms, even if you visit at the right time and place. That being said, it's still worth a try to see the incredible sight. Delicious, Seasonal Pacific Herring Recipes! Photo：Nishin soba In Hokkaido, which is famous for herring production, there are various ways to eat delicious seasonal herring. Pacific herring are considered to be in season only in spring, but it's said that they are also in season in autumn. In Japan, pacific herring are processed in many different ways. Some of these are herring roe, kombu-maki (kelp rolls), nuka nishin (herring in rice-bran paste), and migaki nishin (dried and sliced herring). One of the rarest products is frozen herring stuffed with mentaiko (spicy cod roe). Migaki nishin is famous for its use in nishin soba (a bowl of soba topped with a dried herring), a specialty of Kyoto. In addition, we also recommend carpaccio, which is made by cutting the fish into three pieces and pouring a seasoning mixture of lemon juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper over the meat. The herring and pumpkin pie from Ghibli's "Kiki's Delivery Service" is another dish that tastes even better when made with pacific herring caught during season in Hokkaido. If you like cooking, we recommend trying a simple recipe, which requires just some cooked herring, vegetable paste, white sauce, and cheese inside a pie topping, and then baking. Seaweed With Roe From the Pacific Herring Photo：Komochi kombu When herring come to the shallows to spawn in large schools, they lay their eggs on seaweed. Because the eggs are sticky, they tend to adhere to seaweed, such as kombu (edible kelp) and wakame seaweed. Originally, natural seaweeds on which the eggs were laid naturally were harvested, but due to a decrease in catches, there are fewer and fewer of them. Therefore, seaweed is now hung where the pacific herring will pass by to encourage spawning. The result of pickling these seaweeds in salt creates 2 delicious types of seaweed called komochi kombu and komochi wakame. They are often used in festive New Year's dishes in Japan to bring good luck. Summary of Herring Swarms and Spawning in Hokkaido The pacific herring swarms resemble a milky white sash fluttering in the blue sea. The contrast between the blue and white colors allows for some vivid photography as well. It's fascinating to think that this phenomenon occurs when large schools of herring gather to spawn and release their sperm in order to procreate. If you're traveling to Hokkaido in February and March during spring, consider visiting the coast of Otaru. If you're lucky, you may be able to see the herring swarms, a mysterious phenomenon of life.

Showa Kinen Park - A Breathtaking Park on the Outskirts of Tokyo, Harboring Gracefully Falling Cherry Blossoms and Vibrant Tulips in the Spring! The video “[4K] fluttering cherry blossoms and tulips, Showa Kinen Park -Cherry Blossoms and Tulips-（[4K]桜吹雪とチューリップ 昭和記念公園 - Cherry Blossoms and Tulip -）” made by “AQUA Geo Graphic” showcases falling cherry blossoms and tulips of Showa Kinen Park during spring. The beautiful 4K photos look like a painting. Enjoy the colorful scenery of pink cherry blossoms, and red, yellow, and purple tulips that fill your screen. About Showa Kinen Park Photo：Image of Showa Kinen Park Showa Kinen Park is located between Tachikawa city and Akishima city of Tokyo in the Kanto region. The former U.S. Tachikawa military base was remodeled into the park to commemorate the 50th anniversary of Emperor Showa. There are many different facilities as well! Currently, there is the Rainbow pool, Children’s forest, Japanese Garden, The National Museum of Bonsai, an open Field and more. The park itself is a little over 450 square acres and is a place of recreation and relaxation for many people during the weekend and even throughout the work week. The 4 Seasons of Showa Kinen Park Photo：Showa Kinen Park Tulips Due to Showa Kinen Park's myriad of flower species such as tulips and cherry blossoms, visitors can feel all four seasons regardless of the weather. As shown in the video, Showa Kinen Park is the most colorful in spring, with blooming tulips and cherry blossoms. The beauty of its colorful red, white, yellow, blue and purple tulips in full bloom are sure to leave you speechless. You can see it from the start of the video to about 0:37 seconds in. Cherry trees and tulips in the park bloom at the same time. The cherry blossoms falling onto the tulip garden, makes for some of the most beautiful scenery you can find. You can see this at 0:28 seconds into the video. There are about 1,500 cherry trees including the awesome Yoshino cherry. When in full bloom, it is one of the most visited cherry blossom locations in Tokyo. The blossoms are in bloom from the end of March to the beginning of April every year, and there is also an official website that forecasts when they will bloom so you're sure to not miss it! The cherry blossom viewing spot we recommend most is the “Cherry Blossom Garden” to the north of the open field. If you want to avoid crowds, going there in the morning on a weekday is your best bet. There are about 50 restrooms throughout the park as well, so don't worry about needing to take a pit stop. Events at Showa Kinen Park Photo：Illuminated Christmas lights at Showa Kinen Park In addition to the tulips and fluttering cherry blossoms at Showa Kinen Park, there are other many other recommendations as well. In early spring, rape flowers and Japanese yellow roses are in full bloom. In autumn, foliage, ginkgoes and cosmos are in bloom. In the winter, we recommend seeing the daffodils as well as the Japanese Garden. Also, in winter months, there is an illumination that lights up the nearby streams. There are playgrounds, cafeterias, Dog Run in the park. You can also take great pictures of your sightseeing, or romantic pictures of your date and upload them to Instagram as well. Showa Kinen Park has many events and locations to visit all year round. For example, many people visit Showa Kinen Park for its Barbecue Garden in the spring and pool during summer. There are periodic events such as “Niku Fes” or the Meat festival as well. In recent years, Showa Kinen Park has held a qualifying race for the Hakone relay race that takes place on New Years. Summary of Showa Kinen Park Source :YouTube screenshot This time, we have introduced to you the tulips and fluttering cherry blossoms of Showa Kinen Park. There is also a parking lot that is easily accessed, and is only a 2 to 3 minute walk from the nearest station, Nishi Tachikawa Station on JR Oume line. It is also a government run location so the admission fee is reasonable which makes it a popular spot among families with children. We hope you were able to fully enjoy spring at Showa Kinen Park through this video. We hope you decide to visit in the future! ◆Showa Kinen Park Information◆ 【Address】3173 Midoricho Tachikawa city Tokyo 190-0014 【Access】About a 15 minutes walk from Tachikawa Station through the JR Chuo line, or a 2 minutes’ walk from Nishitachikawa Station through the JR Oume line 【Entrance fee】Adults 450 yen (as of January in 2020) 【Operating Hours】9:30 to 17:00 【Parking】available 【Telephone No】042-528-1751 【Official Website】 Showa Kinen Park Official Website | A national park representative of Japan, a city oasis full of “flowers” and ”green” events. https://www.showakinen-koen.jp/guide-english/schedule-english/

新宿御苑の桜をご紹介 「日本の都会のなかで桜を楽しみたい」 高層ビルが立ち並ぶ都会のなかにある自然は、なんとも言えない魅力がありますよね。 都会のなかの桜もきれいなピンク色と高層ビルのコントラストがとても美しいです。 そのような都会のなかで桜を楽しみたい人に今回は、日本の有名な観光地である新宿御苑の桜を紹介したいと思います。 この記事では、日本の観光地である新宿御苑の桜の特徴や魅力を解説しています。 新宿御苑の桜を撮った、美しい4K動画も紹介しているので、気になる方はご覧ください！ 日本の観光地である新宿御苑の桜の特徴 日本の観光地である新宿御苑の桜の特徴は、広大な敷地のなかでさまざまな品種の桜が楽しめることです。 有名なソメイヨシノは3月下旬ごろから開花し、4月上旬まで咲いています。 薄ピンク色のソメイヨシノの花びらはとてもきれいで、満開になると絶景を楽しめます。 新宿御苑の桜は他にも、河津桜や陽光、大島桜や枝垂れ桜など、白色の桜や濃いピンク色の桜を鑑賞することができる桜好きにはおすすめのスポット。 桜が見頃のシーズンには国内外から観光客がきてお花見するので少し混雑しますが、とても美しい景観を楽しめる名所なのでぜひ見てください。 日本の観光地である新宿御苑の桜の魅力とは 日本の観光地である新宿御苑の桜の魅力は、きれいな桜と高層ビルのコントラストを、広大な敷地のなかで思う存分楽しむことができるところ。 新宿御苑は日本庭園やひろい芝生など、ゆったり桜を鑑賞できるポイントがたくさんあります。 新宿御苑のなかの大きな芝生の広場では、シートをひいて桜を鑑賞したり、お弁当を食べたり、友達とお話したりと、ゆったり楽しんでいます。 新宿御苑はお酒がNGなので、大騒ぎしている人が少なく、ゆったり桜を鑑賞できるところもいいところ。 2019年からは桜のライトアップのイベントも行っているので気になる方は要チェック。 ライトで照らされた桜は幻想的できっと一生に残る思い出になるはずです。 新宿御苑のなかには、さまざまな桜を楽しめるスポットがあるので、桜好きの方はぜひ行ってみてください！ 日本の観光地である新宿御苑の桜をうつした動画はこちら 「Discover Nippon」が制作する新宿御苑の桜を紹介している動画がおすすめです。 こちらの動画は日本の観光地である新宿御苑の桜を美しい4K動画で見ることができます。 この記事を読んで気になった方は、見てみましょう！ 日本の美しい桜を都会のなかで楽しめる春の新宿御苑。 日本の他の場所では見ることができない景色をご覧になれる、おすすめのスポットです。 桜がすきな方はぜひ春の新宿御苑を観光してみてください！

Video Introduction: Keage Incline This video, titled "[A Famous Cherry Blossom Spot in Kyoto] The Keage Incline and Cherry Blossoms (Kyoto, Japan)" (【京都 桜の名所】蹴上インクラインの桜: The Keage Incline and Cherry Blossom（Kyoto, Japan）), was created by "Anna Film Production." The Keage Incline is a popular spot where visitors can walk along an abandoned railroad and take dramatic photos that resemble something you'd see in a movie. When the cherry blossom season arrives in Japan, you can enjoy viewing the quaint pink blossoms while walking along the railroad. In this video you can get an idea of what a calm and quiet Kyoto spring is like… It's almost as if time seems to slow down. [Video] 1:41 - Walking Along the Abandoned Railroad What is Keage Incline? Photo：Keage Incline, Higashiyama, Kyoto Keage Incline is a 582-meter-long inclined railroad connecting Keage Port (蹴上船溜, Keage Funadamari), the upper section of the canal, and Nanzenji Port (南禅寺船溜, Nanzenji Funadamari), the lower section of the canal. In 1891, when it was built, it was the longest railroad in the world. To overcome the nearly 36-meter-difference in height, boats were placed on the track so that they could carry cargo without unloading it, using the same principle as a cable car. Today, only the tracks are preserved in their original condition. Keage Incline is known as a famous spot for sakura (cherry blossoms). We recommend take your time to walk along them when the cherry blossoms are in bloom. You can also enjoy them at night when they're lit up. [Video] 1:20 - Cherry Blossoms Blooming on Both Sides of the Railroad When to See Cherry Blossoms at Keage Incline + Highlights Cherry blossoms typically bloom on Keage Incline from around late March to early April. There are approximately 90 Someiyoshino cherry trees on both sides of the slope at Keage Incline. Consider visiting "Rails and Sakura" (レールと桜) as well. This place is unique as it allows visitors to take photos with cherry blossoms the railroad at the same time. Couples and girls wearing kimono can often be seen posing for Instagram photos here. The area around the rail is still paved with stones from when it was originally used as a railroad, so it may be a bit difficult to walk around. Be sure to watch your step when enjoy the lovely views! Suirokaku, an Ancient Aqueduct and Popular Instagram Spot Near Nanzenji Temple Photo：Surokaku Aqueduct, Nanzenji Temple, Kyoto Besides Keage Incline, Nanzenji Temple's Suirokaku is a popular spot for taking Instagram photos. Suirokaku is a 93.2-meter-long aqueduct bridge. It's located 1 minute from Nanzenji Temple's Lecture Hall. The bridge is made of bricks which give it a historical atmosphere. We recommend taking pictures below the bridge, as the series of arches make it incredibly photogenic. Because it matches the historic scenery, many women in kimonos can be seen taking pictures here. People also pose for pictures, as it is possible to take magazine- and poster-like photos below the bridge. Since this is a popular spot not only for domestic tourists but also for tourists from overseas, it can be crowded with many people during fall when the autumn leaves are in season. If you want to take pictures undisturbed, early morning is your best bet. Things To Do Around Keage Incline – Nanzenji Temple, Himukai Daijingu Shrine, etc. Photo：Nanzenji Temple, Kyoto After taking in the views at Keage Incline, there's also plenty of things to do in the area. Here are some recommended sightseeing spots: ◆Nanzenji Temple This temple is one of the most prestigious Zen temples in Japan. Among the Kyoto Gozan (Five Great Zen Temples of Kyoto), Nanzenji Temple is special. The temple is lined with pagodas and buildings famous from "Sanmon," a legend of Ishikawa Goemon, a legendary Kabuki character. The Hojo Garden by Enshu Kobori, is one of the best-known dry landscape gardens of the early Edo period and is as National Place of Scenic Beauty. You can also experience Zen meditation here, but be sure to make reservations in advance. In addition, the autumn leaves here are breathtaking in the fall! ◆Himukai Daijingu Shrine Like Ise Jingu Shrine, Himukai Daijingu Shrine enshrines the deity Amaterasu Omikami (the Sun Goddess) and has an inner shrine and an outer shrine. The main attractions include the Shinmei-zukuri shrine pavilions and "Amano-Iwato" (Cave of Heaven), which is known as a power spot. Passing through the shrine is said to bring good luck and ward off bad luck. The shrine is also known as a place where travelers on the Tokaido Highway prayed for safety on their way to and from the shrine, and is therefore blessed with good luck in transportation. The autumn foliage is beautiful here as well, making it another recommended spot to visit during the fall. Photo：Otenmon Gate, Heian Jingu Shrine, Kyoto ◆Heian Jingu Shrine At 24.4 meters tall, the Otorii Gate on Jingu-do Street at Heian Jingu Shrine is one of the tallest in Japan. On a clear day, the contrast between the blue sky and the vivid vermilion color makes for beautiful photographs. Otenmon Gate, located straight ahead from Otorii Gate, is designated as an Important Cultural Property of Japan for its beautifully vivid vermillion lacquer. ◆Philosopher's Path Philosopher's Path is a 2km-long-walkway connecting Ginkakuji Temple (The Silver Pavilion) and Nanzenji Temple. The name is derived from Kitaro Nishida, a professor of Kyoto University and early-20th century Japanese philosopher. He used to walk along this path contemplating a myriad of things every day, thus the path came to be known as "Philosopher's Path." The canal along the path is the Lake Biwa Canal, which is drawn from the largest lake in Japan, Lake Biwa. The river near this path, Shirakawa River, flows from north to south according to its elevation, but the man-made Lake Biwa Canal flows from south to north. Beautiful cherry blossoms in spring, gorgeous autumn leaves in autumn…Visitors can a nice walk while enjoying the beautiful cherry blossoms in the spring and autumn leaves in the fall, and there are many temples and shrines to explore in the area, such as Honen-in Temple, Anraku-ji Temple, and Otoyo Shrine, all of which are worth seeing. Summary of Keage Incline Currently, Keage Incline is opened as a tourist attraction. Its disused railroad tracks are very photogenic! If you're sightseeing in Kyoto, especially during cherry blossom season, be sure to check it out. Enjoy the cherry blossoms, but be sure to mind your step! Also, if you get tired, consider taking a rest at one of the many restaurants or cafes in the area. The udon and boiled tofu is quite delicious. Enjoy spring in Kyoto, Japan to your heart's content! 【TripAdvisor】Keage Incline

Tsubosakadera Temple's 'Great Cherry Blossom Buddha': Video Introduction This video, titled "[Cherry Blossoms via Drone in 4K] The Great Cherry Blossom Buddha at Tsubosakadera Temple, Nara (Long Ver. )｜Cherry Blossom Drone Project" ([桜ドローン撮影4K] 奈良県壺阪寺の大仏桜 Tsubosaka-dera Temple, Nara (Long Ver. )｜桜ドローンプロジェクト). was uploaded by "DRONE ENTERTAINMENT - Sakura Drone Project." This video shows beautiful images of the cherry blossoms in full bloom and the Great Buddha at Tsubosakadera Temple taken from the sky during Japan's cherry blossom season. In the video you can see the cherry blossoms from the perspective of the Great Buddha, which can only be achieved with drone photography. The illuminated scenery of the temple grounds at night is different from that of the daytime, and it is a fantastic view. Take your time to watch the beautiful scenery in the video. Nara, Home to Some of the Most Famous Temples in Japan Nara, Japan is home to approximately 1,800 temples, some of which, such as Todaiji Temple, the largest temple in Nara, are the most famous in Japan. It's even home to the Nanto Shichi Daiji (Seven Great Temples of Nara), or the Seven Great Temples of the Southern Capital. The Seven Great Temples of Nara are: Daianji Temple, Gangoji Temple, Horyuji Temple, Kofukuji Temple, Saidaiji Temple, Todaiji Temple, and Yakushiji Temple. The vast number of temples and other tourist attractions, coupled with the long history of Nara, make it a destination in Japan that's definitely worth visiting. What is Tsubosakadera Temple? Photo：The Buddha at Tsubosakadera Temple, Nara Prefecture Tsubosakadera Temple, famous for the Great Cherry Blossom Buddha, is a Shingon sect temple located in Takatori, Nara, in Japan's Kansai Region. Although it's known by the names "Great Cherry Blossom Buddha" and "Tsubosakadera Temple," its official name is Minami Hokkeji Temple. The temple was founded in 703 by Benki Shonin, a Buddhist priest. The temple's name is said to have originated when Benki Shonin, a monk of Gankoji Temple who was undergoing ascetic training, enshrined the Goddess of Kannon in a crystal vase in a hermitage on a hill. The main deity of the temple is the eleven-faced, thousand-armed Kannon (Avalokitesvara), and since it is believed to be protect against eye diseases, visitors from all over Japan come to Tsubosakadera Temple to pray for protection. The temple is also famous for its hina dolls, which are arranged in the shape of a mandala, a sacred symbol in Buddhism. Approximately 3,000 dolls are displayed around the eleven-faced thousand-armed Kannon. In the inner sanctuary of Tsubosakadera Temple, there is also a stone structure called Go-Hyakku Rakan (Five Hundred Arhats) featuring many Buddhist statues. Some things that make the temple unique are its solar power generation system, which is not something you'd find at other temples in Japan, as well as several large Budda statues on the temple grounds that were carved in, and imported from, India. When do the Cherry Blossoms Bloom at Tsubosakadera Temple? Photo：The Great Cherry Blossom Buddha at Tsubosakadera Temple, Nara Prefecture Tsubosakadera Temple is one of the most famous cherry blossom viewing spots in Japan, and is known for its giant Buddha statue surrounded by cherry blossoms. Among the large stone Buddha statues, the most eye-catching is the Tsubosaka Daibutsu (Great Buddha of Tsubosakadera), located in the center of the temple. The statue stands a staggering 10 meters (~33 feet) tall atop a 5-meter-tall platform. During the cherry blossom season, many people come to visit the temple and take Instagram photos with the cherry blossoms and the Buddha. [Video] 1:36 - The Great Buddha Surrounded by Cherry Blossoms Every year, from late March to early April, when the cherry blossoms are at their best, Tsubosakadera Temple hosts a nighttime cherry blossom event. The pagodas and the Great Buddha on the temple grounds, as well as the illuminated cherry blossoms, create a mysterious world. [Video] 3:35 - Tsubosakadera Temple Illuminated at Night Tourist Attractions Near Tsubosakadera Temple Photo：Nara Park, Nara Prefecture There are various tourist attractions and sightseeing spots near Tsubosakadera Temple. You can also visit places where you can learn about Japanese history, such as the ruins of Takatori Castle, which is designated as a National Historic site, and the Kitora Tomb (Kitora Burial Mound). For lunch, we recommend Hana Yamato (花大和), a tea house serving Yakuzen cuisine (medicinal, herbal cuisine based on traditional Chinese medicine), or Oku Asuka Sarara (奥明日香さらら), where you can enjoy local cuisine from Nara. Between sightseeing, you can also take a break at Nokonoko Café (のこのこカフェ). If you're looking to visit major tourist attractions in Nara Prefecture, such as Mt. Yoshino and Nara Park, from Tsubosakadera Temple, we recommend staying overnight and taking your time to enjoy Nara. Summary of the Great Cherry Blossom Buddha at Tsubosakadera Temple Did you enjoy the beautiful views of cherry blossoms at and the Great Buddha at Tsubosakadera Temple in spring? Known for its Great Cherry Blossom Buddha, Tsubosakadera Temple in Nara Prefecture attracts many tourists from all over Japan for hanami (cherry blossom viewing), as well as those who visit the temple on their pilgrimage to the 33 sacred sites in the western part of Japan. You can also pick up original souvenirs at the temple that you won't find anywhere else, such as the shuin stamp book embroidered with the Great Buddha and cherry blossoms. Tsubosakadera Temple is easily accessible from Nara City, and outside of special monthly events, requires no reservations, making it a great place to visit during any trip to Nara. If you're looking for things to do in Nara, be sure to check it out! ◆Tsubosakadera Temple◆ 【Address】3 Tsubosaka, Takatori-cho, Takaichi-gun, Nara 635-0102, Japan 【Access】 By Car: Drive southeast from the Katsuragi IC on Minami Hanna Road (approx. 30 min. by car) By train: From Kintetsu Osaka Abenobashi, get off at Tsubosaka-yama bound for Yoshino (about 40 minutes via express train), then take a bus or cab. 【Telephone】0744-52-2016 【Hours】8:30 a.m. - 3:00 pm 【Admission Fee】Adults (18 years and older) 600 yen, children 100 yen, young children (5 years and younger) free of charge (as of 2/2/2023). 300 yen for the disabled upon presentation of a disability certificate. 【Parking】Available (Please check the official website for details.) 【TripAdvisor】Tsubosakadera Temple

Akita - One of the Most Famous Cherry Blossom Sites in the World This video, titled "KAKUNODATE｜A Famous Cherry Blossom Spot in Tohoku｜Bukeyashiki Street and Hinokinai River Bank, Akita｜4K UHD Cherry Blossoms, Akita Tohoku Japan" (KAKUNODATE 東北の桜名所 秋田・角館武家屋敷通りと桧木内川堤の桜並木 4K UHD Cherry Blossoms, Akita Tohoku Japan), was uploaded by "Japan Videography." Cherry blossoms are now a popular flower all over the world, but many of them were selectively bred in Japan and have been designated as protected species. The Yoshino Cherry, which came to be in the Edo period (1603 to 1868) is exported the most around the world and many people enjoy viewing it during the blooming season because of its beauty. Japan is said to be a mecca for cherry blossom fans around the world, which means that Japan's cherry blossom viewing spots are some of the best in the world. This is a 4K video showing Yoshino Cherry trees along Kakunodate's Bukeyashiki (武家屋敷, Samurai Residence) Street and the Hinokinai River in Akita Prefecture, which are said to have the most beautiful rows of weeping cherry trees in Japan. Enjoy the beautiful footage of the entire area dyed pink. The History of Bukeyashiki Street in Kakunodate Source :YouTube screenshot As you can see from 0:39 in the video, Bukeyashiki Street in Kakunodate is a sightseeing destination in Semboku, Akita. The samurai residences of the Edo Period stand side by side in a 2 km radius, and in the spring, beautiful weeping cherries on the stylish black fences, decorate the street. Bukeyashiki Street in Kakunodate is called "the Little Kyoto of Michinoku" and every year during the cherry blossom season, many tourists from both Japan and abroad come to enjoy the contrast between the gorgeous weeping cherries and solemn samurai residences. Kakunodate is a historical castle town that has thrived since the Edo period. Akita was ruled by the Satake clan, and the Kakunodate of today is the domain of Satake Yoshichika who was the first deputy of the Satake Clan of Kakunodate, and his birthplace still retains its former appearance. The history of Kakunodate as a cherry blossom site began when the feudal lord of the Satake domain who loved cherry blossoms brought in a weeping cherry from Kyoto and planted in his garden. Now, there are approximately 400 cherry blossoms stretching from Bukeyashiki Street in Kakunodate to Hinokinai River. It has also been selected as one of the top 100 cherry blossom sites in Japan. You can see weeping cherries filling Bukeyashiki Street from 1:26 in the video. The Yoshino Cherries Along Akita's Hinokinai Riverbank Source :YouTube screenshot The Hinokinai Riverbank, shown from 3:04 in the video, is a bank built along the Hinokinai River, that runs behind Bukeyashiki Street. Unlike the weeping cherries on Bukeyashiki Street, the ones planted here are Yoshino Cherries. The Yoshino Cherries on the banks of Hinokinai River were first planted in 1934 to commemorate the birth of the Emperor. Why not visit to enjoy the beautiful cherry blossoms and experience the history of Japan? Festivals in Kakunodate Photo：Cherry blossom tunnel, Akita Prefecture A Cherry blossom festival is held in Kakunodate every year during the bloom. You can enjoy a lot of fun activities, such as cherry blossom viewing, fishing for sweetfish, the local specialty "Hinai Jidori" Oyakodon, "Inaniwa Udon," beautiful Japanese sweets, the Kakunodate Birch Textile Museum, passing through a cherry blossom tunnel via rickshaw, and viewing illuminated cherry blossom at night. There are shops where you can rent kimono as well. Exploring the historical streets of Kakunodate while donning a kimono is sure to make your trip memorable! Summary of Kakunodate Source :YouTube screenshot The cherry blossoms along Bukeyashiki Street in Kakunodate and Hinokinai River in Akita have been designated a National Site of Scenic Beauty. Akita is located in the northwestern part of Honshu, so the cherry blossoms bloom later than the Kanto region. There is a live camera on Bukeyashiki Street, so you can check out what the bloom is like on the website. Bukeyashiki Street is about a 20-minute walk from JR Kakunodate Station. Check the website for information on nearby sightseeing spots and parking. 【Official Website】Live Camera https://www.city.semboku.akita.jp/en/ 【Tripadvisor】Hinokinai River https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g1022324-d15296391-Reviews-Hinokinai_Kawa_Tustusmi-Semboku_Akita_Prefecture_Tohoku.html

Cherry Blossom Blizzard at Ueno Park! This video is titled "Beautiful Japanese scenery,Cherry blossoms blizzard in Ueno Park." It introduces the cherry blossom blizzard at Ueno Park in Taito, Tokyo. It's produced by sandabee. In this video, we see the cherry trees standing in rows at Ueno Park along Sakura Dori, a street famous for the statue of Saigo Takamori, in full bloom. The cherry blossom petals fall like a snowstorm, dyeing the surrounding area pink. The beautiful video of Japan in the spring is filled with the applause and cheers of many tourists. It's a must-see! Photo：Ueno Station Ueno Park is one of the most popular hanami sites in Japan and is just a two-minute walk from Ueno Station on foot. The park has a long history and was designated the first public park in Japan in 1873. Officially called "Ueno Onshi Park," Ueno Park has many popular attractions including Tokyo National Museum, Ueno Zoo, where pandas attract many tourists, The National Museum of Western Art, which was designated a World Heritage Site for its Le Corbusier architecture, and more. The park is popular among people for its historical, cultural, artistic, and natural views. The verdant park has around 1,200 cherry trees and many people visit every spring, when the cherry blossoms come into bloom. Recently, the park has attracted increasing numbers of overseas tourists as well. Cherry Blossoms in Ueno Park and the Ueno Cherry Blossom Festival! ©r_abe01 Modifying Since about 40 species of both early and late blooming cherry trees, including Yoshino cherries, are planted in Ueno Park, you can enjoy hanami for around two months, from March until the end of April. The Annual Ueno Cherry Blossom Festival is organized when the Yoshino cherries are at their best and the park makes for one of the best hanami spots in Tokyo. The schedule changes every year based on the bloom forecast. In 2019, the festival was held between March 21st and April 7th. During the festival, tourists can enjoy a quaint view of cherry blossoms illuminated by bonbori (a type of Japanese paper lamp) at night. Planning a hanami trip at night is another great idea if you're looking to avoid the crowds. Ueno Park is of course lined with many stalls and a large number of tourists enjoy hanami parties while sitting on picnic blankets. You can enjoy viewing the beautiful cherry blossoms while eating delicious food at a hanami party with friends! Information on the Ueno Cherry Blossom Festival Photo：Shinobazu and Cherry Blossoms at Ueno Park The best place to see the cherry blossoms in Ueno Park is from the Sakura Dori (さくら通り, Sakura-dori) Street and the Shinobazu Pond boat ramp to the Ueno Park Open-Air Stage. You can also enjoy the wonderful view of cherry blossoms reflecting off the pond's surface while on a boat ride. During the Ueno Cherry Blossom Festival, events including the antique market are also held. Beside the stalls, Ueno Park has many restaurants and cafes to enjoy delicious food while viewing cherry blossoms as well. As the area around Ueno Station has many restaurants where takeout options are available, you can spend a whole day here enjoying tourist spots in the area and the view of the cherry blossoms. Although Ueno Park has parking lots, they are often full by early morning during the cherry blossom season. That being said, the best way to visit the park is by public transportation. Summary of the Ueno Cherry Blossom Festival The Ueno Cherry Blossom Festival in Ueno Park is a festival in Japan's spring that everyone should visit at least once. Since Ueno Park is one of the most popular hanami spots, you may need to save a place to have a hanami party during the flowering season when many tourists are gathering. You don't need to worry about restrooms since there are plenty throughout the park. If you're lucky, you can see the instagrammable, mystic view of the surrounding landscape dyed pink by the falling cherry blossoms. Experience the beauty of Japan's cherry blossoms with the video! ◆Ueno Park◆ 【Address】3-chome Ikenohata, Taito-ku, Tokyo. 【Access】A two-minute walk from JR/Tokyo Metro Ginza Line/Hibiya Line Ueno Station, and a one-minute walk from Keisei Ueno Station on the Keisei Line 【Hours】5 a.m. – 11 p.m. 【Telephone】(+081) 03-3828-5644

Chureito - The Five-story Pagoda at Arakurayama Sengen Park in Fujiyoshida, Yamanashi This video, titled "The Cherry Blossoms of Chureito Pagoda - Yamanashi - Chureito - 4K Ultra HD" (The Cherry Blossoms of Chureito Pagoda - Yamanashi - 忠霊塔 - 4K Ultra HD), was released by "Tokyo Street View --Japan The Beautiful." Mt. Fuji, cherry blossoms, and shrines and temples are just some of the things that come to mind when one imagines Japan. This video, shot in 4K Ultra HD, is brimming with the beauty of Japan! The atmosphere and beauty will have you feeling like you're visiting Arakurayama Sengen Park's Chureito Pagoda to go see Mt. Fuji and the surrounding cherry blossoms yourself! Not only is it beautiful, but the Yoshino cherries and Chureito Pagoda also have a melancholy history, and we'll explain that as well... The video starts with a breathtaking view of Chureito, the five-storied pagoda with a beautiful vermilion coating, but what lies here is a cenotaph that honors and enshrines the remains of those who perished in previous wars. There are approximately 650 yoshino cherries planted around Chureito Pagoda in Arakurayama Sengen Park. The cherry blossom is a beautiful flower that symbolizes not only Japan, but also war. In other words, the Chureito Pagoda and the yoshino cherries are meant to be memorials and flowers for the spirits of the dead. The official name of Chureito Pagoda is "Fujiyoshida Cenotaph Monument," which means that it is not a general shrine or temple, but a memorial Pagoda owned by the city. (Chureito Pagoda is, however, erected on the premises of Arakura Fuji Sengen Shrine) A Sightseeing Spot Representing Yamanashi Prefecture Photo：Arakurayama Sengen Park Chureito in Arakurayama Sengen Park, located in Fujiyoshida City, Yamanashi Prefecture, is a tourist destination that represents Yamanashi Prefecture and is visited by many tourists every year. Just by watching the video, it isn't hard to understand why. It's a culmination of the beautiful scenery that symbolizes Japan, condensed into one location. Also, when climbing the 398 steps leading to the observation deck of Arakurayama Sengen Park, you'll find "the place where Mt. Fuji looks most beautiful." Selected as one of the "One Hundred Views of Mount Fuji" and featured on the cover of the 4th edition of "Michelin Green Guide Japan," it is one of the most famous places to see beautiful scenery, both in Japan and overseas. It has become explosively popular in the last few years, especially with visitors from Thailand. It has been worshiped as a sacred place, and many Thai people have come to Japan to see this scenery with their own eyes. On the grounds of Arakurayama Sengen Park and on the grounds of Arakura Fuji Sengen Shrine, there are promenades surrounded by tree, including cherry blossoms, pine trees, cypresses, and zelkovas, as well as hiking trails with small pavilions. Many tourists come to enjoy the autumn leaves here in the fall. During the cherry blossom festival, events are held on stages, there are booths featuring delicious local cuisine, and the Arakurayama Sengen Park area is shrouded in a gorgeous atmosphere. In order to enjoy the night views of the cherry blossoms and Chureito Pagoda, live cameras are installed in the area so guests visiting via the internet can enjoy them as well. Also, winter is expected to be quite crowded with worshippers coming to celebrate hatsuhinode, the first sunrise of the year, so it's best to check visiting information online before heading out to the shrine. Summary of Arakurayama Sengen Park Photo：Arakurayama Sengen Park Shimizu Port in Shizuoka Prefecture is also famous for its view of Mt. Fuji, but the best place to enjoy the traditional Japanese beauty of cherry blossoms and a vermillion-colored pagoda along with Mt. Fuji is, without a doubt, Arakurayama Sengen Park and Chureito Pagoda. Information on transportation access to Arakurayama Sengen Park and free parking (up to 96 standard vehicles) can be found on the official Fujiyoshida City Tourism Guide website. The road to the free parking lot may be closed, especially during winter, so be sure to check the information on the website before visiting. 【Official Website】Arakurayama Sengen Park・Chureito Pagoda – Fujiyoshida City Tourism Guide https://fujiyoshida.net/en/see-and-do/12 【TripAdvisor】Chureito Pagoda https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g739128-d15113628-Reviews-Churei_Tower-Gotemba_Shizuoka_Prefecture_Tokai_Chubu.html

Cherry Blossoms on Mt. Yoshino, Nara: Video Introduction This video, titled "Chery Blossoms on Mt. Yoshino 2020" (吉野山の桜 2020), was uploaded "koichi hozan." Mt. Yoshino is a famous sightseeing spot in Nara, and is a registered UNESCO's World Heritage Site. Mt. Yoshino has also been selected as one of Japan's Top 100 Cherry Blossom Viewing Sites. Being on a list with spots like Chidorigafuchi and the Imperial Place in Tokyo, Hirosaki Park in Aomori, and Goryokaku Park in Hokkaido, is no easy feat, so you know the cherry blossoms here are really something else. A Brief Introduction to Nara Prefecture and Yoshino Nara is a prefecture in central Japan located south of Kyoto and just east of Osaka. Nara is known for its rich history as the ancient capital of Japan, as well as its abundance of temples and shrines. Many people travel to Nara to explore the history of ancient temples, such as Todaiji Temple, one of the most famous temples in Japan and at one point the largest wooden structure in the world, and the beautiful views that can be found within the prefecture, at places such as Nara Park. Yoshino is located in the dead center of Nara and is famous for Mt. Yoshino, undeniably one of the best places in Japan to view the cherry blossoms. The mountain is home to the Yoshino Ropeway allowing visitors to easily reach the top for some cherry blossom viewing. That being said, it's also possible to hike the mountain. If you're looking to do some hiking there are several different ways to go about it: The first is to hike up and down both ways. Starting from Yoshino Station and hiking to the Oku Senbon (upper area of the mountain) and then hiking back down will take around 3.5-5 hours depending on how many breaks you take and how often you stop to take in the scenery and take photos. Another way to hike the mountain is to take the Yoshino Ropeway to the top and then hike your way down the mountain while enjoying the views and visiting temples, shrines, etc. Hiking Mt. Yoshino like this will take around 2-3 hours. Lastly, you could hike up Mt. Yoshino and take the ropeway down, which will take you around 3-4 hours. From both Osaka Station and Kyoto Station, it's about a 2-hour train ride to Yoshino Station. From Nara Park, it'll take about 1.5 hours to reach by train. Japan – The Country of 'Sakura.' Discover the Beautiful Flower and What It Means in the Language of Flowers If you didn't know, Japan's national flower is the chrysanthemum, and if you've ever seen a Japanese passport before, you would have seen the flower on it. This might come as a surprised to most people as they often see associate Japan with cherry blossoms when it comes to flowers. But how much do you know about cherry blossoms? Here are some facts about cherry blossoms for you: The Japanese word for "cherry blossoms" is "sakura," written in kanji as "桜." The cherry trees in Japan that grow these beautiful flowers are a deciduous broad-leaved trees belonging to the family Rosaceae, subfamily Prunus. They're distributed throughout temperate regions on the Northern Hemisphere, but the ones that have beautiful flowers are mostly found in Asia. Japan especially has many different varieties of cherry trees. In general, there are 9 basic species, but there are actually more than 100 species of sakura that grow naturally. The language of flowers attaches different meanings to eat flower. Japan's version of this is called "Hanakotoba." In Hanakotoba, sakura mean "spiritual beauty," "graceful woman," and "purity." Some speculate that this flower was entrusted with such beauty as a symbol to express Japan's dignity. When the cherry blossoms are in bloom, the people of Japan know that spring has truly arrived. Most bloom during the spring, but some species bloom in fall as well. The History of Kinpusenji Temple on Mt. Yoshino – The Origin of Mountain Worship in Japan Mt. Yoshino is not like other famous cherry blossom spots: trees are not neatly arranged for hanami (cherry blossom viewing). Cherry blossoms on Mt. Yoshino are "sakura for religion" and are deeply connected to mountain worship in Japan. This is one of the reasons why they are taken care of so well. The history of Mt. Yoshino dates back around 1,300 years. At that time, the mountains were believed to be inhabited by gods, and Mt. Yoshino was considered to be an ideal home for these gods. It is said that En no Ozunu (the founder of Shugendo) carved the image of Zao Gongen into a cherry tree and enshrined it. Kinpusenji Temple is home to this image of Zao Gongen. The temple is also famous for Kane no Torii (銅鳥居), a torii gate made of copper. Kane no Torii is one of the Three Great Torii Gates of Japan. The other two are: the vermilion torii on Miyajima; the stone torii of Shitennoji Temple (大阪四天王寺, Osakashitennoji) in Osaka. Zaodo (the main hall of Kinpusenji Temple) where the principal image is enshrined, is still a center of worship that attracts many worshippers. The Meaning of Hitome Senbon + When to See Cherry Blossoms on Mt. Yoshino There are around 30,000 cherry blossom trees of approximately 200 different varieties on Mt. Yoshino. In the spring, the trees bloom and create an incredible view. The view itself is called "Hitome Senbon," meaning roughly "One thousand cherry blossoms at a glance." The shiroyamazakura (Cerasus jamasakura) usually grow densely. These cherry blossoms can be found all over the mountain. Because there are so many, they're referred to in sections: "Shimosenbon" (lower thousand), "Nakasenbon" (middle thousand), "Kamisenbon" (upper thousand), and "Okusenbon" (inner thousand). The best time to see the cherry blossoms on Mt. Yoshino is from late March to mid-April. Mt. Yoshino's cherry blossoms bloom from the bottom to the top of the mountain and can be enjoyed over a longer period of time. Spots for Viewing Cherry Blossoms on Mt. Yoshino The best spot to see the cherry blossoms on Mt. Yoshino is the Hanayagura observatory (花矢倉展望台, Hanayagura Tenbodai) located in the Kamisenbon area. You can enjoy a panoramic view of Mt. Yoshino from here. Even Mt. Kongo, the border between Nara and Osaka, can be viewed from here. The prospect from Nakasenbon area is also popular. Particularly, if you enter Sanmon Gate (山門, Sanmon) at Yoshimizu Shrine (吉水神社, Yoshimizu Jinja), you can enjoy a view known as "Hitome Senbon." Even Hideyoshi Toyotomi was said to be impressed with this view, so be sure not to miss it! The superb view called "Hitome Senbon" is composed of Someiyoshino, light pink colored cherry blossoms, but there are also Shiroyamazakura which have many different colors, such as white and light red. The variety of colors is one of the reasons for the park's beauty! In the Nakasenbon area, there is a hidden spot for enjoying hanami (cherry blossom viewing). That spot is Nyoirin-ji Temple. This is a good spot for those looking to enjoy the cherry blossoms in a relaxed atmosphere. [Video] 7:23 - Cherry Blossoms at Nyoirinji Temple From the viewing platform in the Shimo-Senbon area, you can see the beautiful cherry blossoms of Nanamagari-zaka. You can also enjoy a wonderful view of the cherry blossoms from the nearby Mt. Yoshino Ropeway. The Tradition of 'Hanami' in Japan "Hanami" (花見) is the Japanese word for "cherry blossom viewing." Every year when spring arrives in Japan and the cherry blossoms begin to bloom, all across Japan you'll find people making preparations to go see them. The tradition's roots can be traced back to famous Japanese warlords from hundreds of years ago, when large banquets were held to appreciate the beauty of the flowers. Even today, cherry blossom parties are held and you can often see people going out to parks, etc. with their friends and families to relax below the beautiful blossoms while enjoying a variety of foods, such as onigiri and mochi, and having fun barbecuing and drinking sake. If you're planning on visiting Japan yourself, we recommend experiencing hanami like the Japanese and doing just this! Pick up some snacks at a nearby store and spend a day appreciating the beauty of nature. Don't forget to take some photos as well! Summary of Cherry Blossoms on Mt. Yoshino During cherry blossom season in Nara, traffic is regulated and parking lots are closed. Because of this, we recommend visiting by bus. During the peak blooming period for the cherry blossoms on Mt. Yoshino, you can even enjoy viewing them at night! There will be illumination events that light up the beautiful flowers. The nighttime scenery is truly magical! Around Mt. Yoshino, you can also enjoy various food. Try the famous Kuzu-Udon or Kakinoha-Zushi for lunch, and go for a hike up the mountains afterwards. You can also relax and take a break with some matcha tea and traditional Japanese sweets while enjoying the cherry blossoms at Nyoirinji Temple! Delicious food and a beautiful view of 30,000 cherry blossom trees… It's hard to think of a more enjoyable spring day in Japan! [TripAdvisor] Mt. Yoshino

"Toyosaka no Mai" at the Sakura Matsuri Gagaku Concert Performance! The video, titled "Toyosaka no Mai Sakura Matsuri Gagaku Concert 2018" (豊栄の舞　さくらまつり雅楽演奏会2018), was released by "YAKISOBA1BAN." It shows a performance of Gagaku, a traditional Japanese performing art. The performance featured in the video is "Toyosaka no Mai" at the 2018 Sakura Matsuri Gagaku Concert at Fujisan Hongu Sengen Taisha Shrine in Fujinomiya, Shizuoka, in Japan's Tokai region. The musical performance by the Ohito Gagaku Ensemble (大仁雅楽会) at Fujisan Hongu Sengen Taisha Shrine's main shrine is very elegant. Gagaku and Other Traditional Japanese Cultures Photo：Noh Japan has a variety of traditional music and dance cultures, including the well known Noh and Kyogen. Some of the notable traditions are the dedication of Bugaku and Kagura (Shinto music) performed with an accompaniment of Gagaku music at traditional festivals held in various regions of Japan. Gagaku (traditional Japanese court music) and Kagura are traditional cultures that have been handed down in Japan since ancient times as traditional music of the court. For those who are interested in Japan's beautiful Gagaku and Bugaku performances, we recommend visiting shrines and temples during traditional Japanese events, such as Hatsumode (New Year's visit), Setsubun, Ouka-Sai (桜花祭, Cherry blossom Festival), Nodate (an open‐air tea ceremony), and more. Toyosaka no Mai, the Gagaku Performance Shown in the Video Source :YouTube screenshot Toyosaka no Mai, the performance shown in the video, is a very joyful performance held in the spring. Women wearing red and white clothing, holding a sakaki or a flower of each of the four seasons, perform a dance to the accompaniment of a sho (a Japanese free reed flute), Hichiriki (a double reed Japanese flute), gaku biwa, Koto and other instruments. Miko (the shrine maidens) who perform Toyosaka no Mai, as shown at 0:44 in the video, spend countless hours practicing and mastering the dance before the actual performance. The Sakura Matsuri Gagaku Concert at Fujisan Hongu Sengen Taisha Shrine! Photo：Yabusame The Ouka-Sai Festival at Fujisan Hongu Sengen Taisha Shrine also includes a performance of "Kujishi no Maki," which originates from Minamoto no Yoritomo's "Fuji-no-Makigari." It also includes a performance by the Tenma Taiko Preservation Society and the annual festival of the Massha Tenjin-sha Shrine. In May, "Yabusame" a heroic horseback archery festival is held, attracting many tourists. Besides the Sakura Matsuri Gagaku Concert, there are many other events that you can visit to experience the charms of Japanese culture. Summary of "Toyosaka no Mai" at the Sakura Matsuri Gagaku Concert Source :YouTube screenshot Toyosaka no Mai is a traditional performance that has been handed down in Japan since ancient times. The fantastic Bugaku performance under the cherry blossoms at night is so beautiful that you'll never get tired of watching it. If you'd like to learn more about traditional Japanese performing arts, be sure to check out the video to see all of the intricacies of the performance!