An Introduction to Okashi no Machioka 「「おかしのまちおか」 Okashi no Machioka」, is a video created by 「IKEBUKURO GOURMET」. It introduces the sweets shop "Okashi no Machioka" which is a very popular destination for those visiting Japan. Over 1000 varieties of sweets are sold here at extremely low prices, making this the perfect place for sweet lovers, or those who are looking to buy Japanese souvenirs. This article will introduce the charm of Okashi no Machioka. What is Okashi no Machioka? Source of photo :YouTube screenshot Okashi no Machioka is a popular sweets shop in Japan managed by the Minoya Corporation (株式会社みのや, Kabushiki-gaisha Minoya), and there are over 150 Okashi no Machioka locations throughout Japan. A wide selection of snacks from various brands are sold here. As seen from 1:27 in the video, snacks such as candies and gum are sold at very reasonable prices. This shop is popular among people of all ages, from the young to the elderly. The Greatest Attraction of Okashi no Machioka: Unbelievably Low Prices Source of photo :YouTube screenshot Sometimes, up to a 90% discount is available for selected sweets. Information about limited-time campaigns or opening sales is available on online or on flyers, so do make sure to check those frequently. The secret behind the low prices of Okashi no Machioka is that products are displayed in bulk in cardboard boxes, thus reducing the need for additional fixtures and cutting operating costs. You can see the products lined up in the shop from 0:09 in the video. The Products of Okashi no Machioka Source of photo :YouTube screenshot Okashi no Machioka is also popular with foreigners. These visitors mostly purchase sweets as souvenirs. Matcha KitKats, Assorted Kit Kats, Chiroru Chocolate, Matcha Mochi, Kororo, Hi-Chew, and Matcha Oreo are some of the most popular items. Every year around the start of the new year, "lucky bags" are sold for 1,000 yen (~$9 USD). The bags are stuffed to the brim with sweets, making them well worth the price. These bags have received favorable reviews from many satisfied customers as well. Besides this, "dagashi," (駄菓子, Japanese penny candy), and sweets assortments, are also popular. Where is Okashi no Machioka? Photo：Highrises in Shinjuku There are Okashi no Machioka shops in cities all over Japan. Besides the inner Tokyo shops in Kichijoji, Shibuya, Shinjuku, Ikebukuro, and more, there are also shops in Kawasaki, Musashi-Kosugi, Kita-senju, Funabashi, as well as other locations in the prefectures of Chiba, Kyoto, Saitama, and Osaka. The opening hours vary by location, so we recommend double checking this information on the Okashi no Machioka official homepage. Okashi no Machioka summed up The video 「「おかしのまちおか」 Okashi no Machioka」, by 「IKEBUKURO GOURMET」, introduces Okashi no Machioka, a popular sweets shop in Japan. Sweets are sold at extremely low prices, and with over a thousand varieties of sweets available, just taking a stroll through the shop makes for an enjoyable experience. If you want to eat lots of sweets at reasonable prices, or buy sweets as souvenirs, then this shop is exactly what you're looking for. The producer of the video can also be seen purchasing sweets at 2:24 of the video. If this article has piqued your interest, definitely check out the video!

Delicious Snacks! Kracie's "Popin' Cooking" Series of Educational Confectionaries This video shows you how to make four different types of candy with Kracie's "Popin' Cooking" series of educational snacks. ・0:08: Delicious ramen ・2:30: Gummy trees, soda flavor ・4:27: Hamburger ・9:09: Festival food The "Popin' Cooking" series is fun for both kids and adults to enjoy. It's so much more exciting when you can make them look just like the real thing! Be sure to check out what they're like in the video. 【Official Homepage】Popin' Cooking - Product Introduction｜Kracie https://www.kracie.co.jp/eng/products/popin_n/okashi/

A Karumeyaki Demonstration! This video shows karumeyaki being made at a stall near the Japan Mint in Osaka Prefecture. Karumeyaki, also known as karuyaki, etc., is a traditional Japanese snack that looks like a large, puffy disk. From 1:10 in the video, you can see the vendor add granulated sugar and watch it swell. The taste you'll notice is caramelized sugar with a slightly charred taste and a macaron-like texture. You don't see karumeyaki stalls very often, but you can find demonstrations at festival and fair stalls, so if you see one, be sure to give it a taste!

Hand-Grilled Rice Crackers From Komiya Senbei, A Long-Established Rice Cracker Shop in Soka, Saitama This video, titled "Japanese Rice Cracker, SENBEI Making ASMR," was released by "Ante." It introduces hand-grilled Soka Senbei. Soka Senbei are a type of Japanese rice cracker and are a specialty product made in Soka, Saitama. In the year 2000, they were selected as one of the "Top 100 Local Specialties in Saitama to Pass on to the 21st Century." The video introduces the long-established Soka Senbei rice cracker shop which is very particular about hand-grilling their product, the "Komiya Senbei," and shows it being grilled from start to finish. The rhythmic beat as they flip over and add flavor to the rice crackers makes quite a catchy ASMR tune. Soka Senbei - A Popular Snack in Japan Photo：Soka Senbei from Soka, Saitama Soka Senbei are characterized by being made from 100% glutinous rice. It is said that Soka Senbei originated in the Edo period (1603-1868) when soy sauce was added to "Shio Katamochi" (a type of hardened, salted rice cake), which was then grilled and turned into salt flavored rice crackers. This was eaten as a non-perishable food. Soka Senbei, which have a hard and crisp texture and do not contain additives such as coloring agents, are loved by many people, from both children to adults. This is why many people buy assorted rice crackers for celebrations, gifts, presents, souvenirs, etc., and they can also be purchased online. Genuine Soka Senbei have a regional collective trademark on them as a symbol of authenticity to preserve the traditional flavor. Also, in the year 2000, this rice cracker boarded the Space Shuttle Endeavor with Koichi Wakata as he took to the stars. Making Soka senbei, A Specialty of Saitama Prefecture Photo：Rice Here, we'll introduce how Soka senbei are made alongside the video. 1. Milling Polish the rice and grind it with a stone mill. 2. Kneading Stir and knead while adding boiling water into the oval mixing tub. 3. Steaming Rice is made into ball-shape dumplings and steamed in a bamboo steamer. 4. Pound Pound the rice, cool it down and repeat pounding it. 5. Knead again Knead further 6. Smooth and Flatten Spread to an even thickness 7. Cut according to a mold Cutting out in the shape of a round mold 8. Dry Line the rice crackers up and dry them in the sun. Source :YouTube screenshot 9. Grilling (0:35~] Turn the rice cracker over and over again over a charcoal grill, pressing it with a push tile many times to shape it and grill it. 10. Finishing (6:26~] Carefully apply soy sauce to the grilled rice crackers one by one with a brush. The video shows the grilling and finishing steps of 9 and 10. As you can see in the video, the hand-grilling is done by a skilled craftsman while watching and adjusting the moisture and cooking that each rice cracker receives. Because the process is so strict, only about 1,500 to 2,000 rice crackers can be roasted in a day. Summary of Soka Senbei Rice Crackers Photo：Soka Senbei, Saitama Prefecture In this article and video, you can see the charm of Soka Senbei as they're carefully grilled one by one. Soka Senbei rice crackers cost more than mass-produced rice crackers because of the particularities regarding ingredients and because the amount that can be made in a day is limited, but we highly recommend trying Soka Senbei, a simple, yet delicious treat. In the video, you can see the rice crackers being turned over and grilled one after another with a rhythmic beat. You can smell the great grilled scent just by looking at the picture. 【Yelp】Komiya Senbei Honpo https://www.yelp.com/biz/%E5%B0%8F%E5%AE%AE%E3%81%9B%E3%82%93%E3%81%B9%E3%81%84%E6%9C%AC%E8%88%97-%E8%8D%89%E5%8A%A0%E5%B8%82?osq=%E5%B0%8F%E5%AE%AE%E3%81%9B%E3%82%93%E3%81%B9%E3%81%84

Video Introduction of "Toda" Candy Store in Fukaya City, Saitama Prefecture This video, titled "[Japan's Old-Time Dagashiya] A Look at Toda in Fukaya, Saitama" (【昔ながらの駄菓子屋さん】埼玉県深谷市 の 「とうだ」ってどんな所？), was released by "Donna tokoro? TV" (どんな所?TV). "Dagashiya" are something that many of those who were born in Showa era Japan are familiar with. Dagashi are inexpensive snacks made and sold for children. They're essentially the equivalent of penny candy in the U.S. Each product is small and sold in small portions, many of them costing only 5 to 30 yen each. This makes it possible for children to buy them with their allowances. Many of the snacks come with extras or winning "lottery" tickets, and if you ever experienced this kind of candy culture as a kid you know how much fun it was. In this article, we take you inside Japan's "Dagashiya," the once popular hangouts for children. Be sure to follow along with the video as it explores "Toda," a Showa retro dagashiya in Fukaya (深谷市, Fukaya-Shi), Saitama (埼玉県, Saitama-Ken), in Japan's Kanto Region (関東地方, Kanto-Chiho). The History of Japan's Dagashi Photo：Dagashiya Do you know where the name "dagashi" comes from? It's actually a term that refers to all sorts of sweets made with unrefined brown sugar. Since refined white sugar and granulated sugar were expensive raw materials back in the day, it's said that making dagashi started as an attempt to reduce the cost of materials as much as possible and to make snacks using unrefined brown sugar that common people and children could eat with a sense of security. Because of this, dagashi became very popular among children, and it's said that during the Edo period (1603-1868 A.D.), many candy shops specializing in dagashi were established in various towns. Variations on the term "dagashi" also increased, and it became common to refer to inexpensive sweets for children as dagashi, in addition to sweets made with brown sugar. These are the roots of today's dagashiya shops. Let's take a look at some traditional dagashi. ・Sendai-dagashi Nowadays, it's considered a high-class Japanese sweet, but in the Edo period, it was a popular snack for the common people. Misopan (Miso bread) and karumera-yaki are typical Sendai sweets. ・Kokusen, Kankan-bo A typical roasted grain candy made from soybeans, sesame, and soybean flour. ・Kuro-bo A chunky textured, bread-like pastry made from flour, brown sugar, and eggs. ・Fu-chan A kind of fugashi (dried wheat gluten coated with sugar made from sugarcane). ・Karume-yaki Today, it's less common to see them at food stalls at festivals, but they're a type of dagashi with nice crunchy texture. Karumera-yaki from Sendai is the same thing. Photo：Konpeito ・Konpeito A very venerable confectionary that even the Imperial family has a custom of distributing during celebrations. As white sugar became more affordable, dagashiya stores began to carry it as well. ・Tirol Choco A prominent product that's still popular in dagashiya today. ・Umai-bo Considered an ace-class dagashi. ・Yotchan-Ika (Seasoned Squid) An excellent snack for drinks. ・Kyabetsu-Taro A popular snack that is now sold in convenience stores as part of a renewed boom in dagashi. There are a lot more popular dagashi, such as ・POTATO FRY ・Fruit-Mochi ・Tara-Tara-Shitenja-neyo (Fish paste chips) The Dagashi Sold at Toda, a Dagashiya in Fukaya, Saitama. Photo：Dagashiya The dagashi store in Fukaya, Saitama, shown in the video, has been run by one woman by herself since its opening. The appearance of the store is that of a dagashiya that was a familiar place for children to hang out during Showa era Japan. The store's name paint is now faded, and the red tent curtain on the roof, a symbol of a dagashiya, has also faded, but the entrance is lined with many gacha-pon machines, and the store is filled with nostalgic snacks, ice candies, toys, and stationery. The world may change but this sweets shop keeps on doing what it always has - selling candy. The video shows some of the most popular dagashi items that have been loved by children throughout the years. For those in their 40s and older, these items are a reminder of the good old days! They include Kamayaki Santaro, super ball lottery, medaka-chan game, candies, Maburu-gum, bubble gum, "Cola ball" (Coke Jell-O), yogurt, Choco-bat-Ace (home run bar), "lotteries" (if you win, you get snacks or toys), and more! However, the times have changed, now Reiwa era. However, the times have changed, and the wrapping paper of the candy is now printed with characters such as Fukka-chan, a mascot character, or characters from popular TV anime, clearly reflecting the current times. "Toda" is still a popular dagashi store where adult customers visit with their children. Summary of Japan's Dagashiya, the Once Popular Hangouts for Kids Photo：Kawagoe Candy Alley, Saitama Prefecture From the end of the Showa period to the Heisei period, the dagashi industry temporarily declined, and the number of dagashiya stores decreased drastically. Instead of dagashiya stores however, mass merchandisers (such as Niki's Confectionery, Kobe Bussan, etc.) that sell assorted dagashi in large quantities have become popular on retro shopping streets such as Ameyoko in Ueno. This has sparked a revival in dagashi. Besides these stores, self-service all-you-can-eat Dagashi-Bars or Dagashiya-Bar are also becoming popular. In these bars, you can enjoy a wide variety of delicious snacks, such as okaki (rice crackers) and surume-ika (squid), which go great together with drinks. In Kawagoe (川越市, Kawagoe-Shi), Saitama, there's "Dagashiya Yokocho" (Candy Alley) lined with dagashi manufacturers and wholesalers, making it a highly popular tourist spot in Saitama. The popularity of dagashi is still strong online, and there are even dagashi stores that specialize in online shopping! Consider experiencing the nostalgia of Showa Japan with the delicious dagashi of Japan's good-old days!

A video on retro Japanese Dagashi Stores! This video introduces you to Japan's nostalgic "Dagashi Stores". To Japanese adults, this video reminds them of their childhood with its nostalgic feel. That being said, Its certainly very interesting to children and foreigners who don’t know about Japanese Dagashi Stores. When there weren't convenience stores in the past, children loved to go to Dagashi Stores where they chose special candies and toys to spend their allowances on. Enjoy the video showing the fun scenes of Dagashi Stores. What Are Dagashi Stores? What Kind of Things Do They Sell? Photo：Dagashi Store Dagashi Stores are shops that buy candies and toys from wholesale distributors and sell them in their own shops. In some regions, they are also called ‘Ichimon Candy Stores’. As seen from 0:32 in the video, Dagashi Stores attract children with their shelves of various candies and toys. Candies such as Kinakobo, Chocobat, BIG Katsu, Mochitaro, Umaibo, and sweets with toys and sweets with winning tickets are still being sold. Many candies that adults nowadays used to buy when they were young. You Can Buy Toys and Play Games, Too! Photo：Traditional Toys Dagashi Stores are popular among young children. They also sell toys such as spinning tops (独楽 Koma), Menko (めんこ), Taketombo Bamboo toys (竹とんぼ Taketombo), balloons and plastic models. Children enjoy playing candy lotteries with pictures of movie stars, Arcade games, and medal games with friends. Dagashi Stores are important socializing spots for children, too. Let's Check It Out! Photo：Sweet Shop Yokocho There are still some individually run Dagashi Stores left in Japan. The chained Dagashi Stores within AEON shopping mall should be easy to find. You should visit "Kashiya Yokocho" (菓子屋横丁), a popular tourist destination in Kawagoe, and if you're of legal age (20 in Japan), be sure to check out "Dagashi Bar" where you can eat candies with alcohol. At the unique chain shops "Private Dining Bar Rokunen Yonkumi" (個室居酒屋6年4組), they offer "All you can eat candy." You can also buy candies that are sold at Dagashi Stores on the internet. We recommend that you check out various online shops. Summary of the Introductory Video on Japanese Dagashi Stores Source :YouTube screenshot Today we introduced you to Dagashi Stores that are popular among children. After watching the video, if you're longing for a nostalgia filled trip or just want to experience the Japanese culture of Dagashi Stores, be sure to find and visit the address of a nearby Dagashi Store that's still open.

Japan's Delicious Baby Castella This video shows the artisans at Aoi Renga, which is said to be the best baby castella maker in Japan, making baby castella. Aoi Renga has a branch in Shimokitazawa, Setagaya City, and has been covered by various media outlets. The "Aoi Renga" baby castella, which are also delicious when eaten chilled, were certified by the Setagaya Ward as a "Setagaya Souvenir." In the video, you can see the Fresh Cream Fondue made with fresh cream from Hokkaido, the Fresh Chocolate Fondue made with bitter chocolate and fresh cream from Hokkaido, and baby castella being dipped in them. Be sure to check out the video to see the quick skills of the best castella chefs in Japan! ◆Baby Castella Specialty Store "Aoi Renga" Store Information◆ 【Address】2-25-4 Kitazawa, Setagaya City, Tokyo 【Access】44 meters from Shimokitazawa Station 【Castella Pricing】¥500+ 【Hours】11:00-20:00 【Closures】Tuesdays 【Parking】None 【Phone】03-5453-8711 【Official Website】Baby Castella Specialty Shop「Aoi Renga」 https://www.aoirenga.com/index.html 【Tripadvisor】Aoi Renga https://www.tripadvisor.com/Restaurant_Review-g1066455-d13294823-Reviews-Aoi_Renga-Setagaya_Tokyo_Tokyo_Prefecture_Kanto.html

Kinkato - Japanese Sweets Displayed at the Doll Festival in Kanazawa, Ishikawa This video, titled "[4K Video] Kinkato at Hinamatsuri in Northern Japan: Kanazawa, Ishikawa｜nippon.com" (【4K動画】北国の雛（ひな）祭りを彩る金花糖：石川県金沢市| nippon.com), was uploaded by "nippon.com." It introduces "kinkato," a lucky sugar candy displayed with Hina dolls during Hinamatsuri (The Doll Festival), a traditional Japanese event held on March 3 every year to wish for the healthy growth of girls. In Kanazawa, Ishikawa, located in Japan's Koshinetsu region, the tradition of displaying "kinkato," a traditional Japanese sweet, has been passed down as part of Japanese confectionery culture and colorfully decorates Hinamatsuri, which comes at the end of the long winter in northern Japan. This article will explain the culture and traditions of kinkato. In the video, you'll see kinkato in various shapes, including sea bream, gourds, etc., which are displayed with the dolls on the hina-dan (the stage that holds the dolls during Hinamatsuri). Be sure to check out the video to get an idea of what kinkato is like and how it's used as a decoration. More About the Traditional Japanese Sweet Kinkato Photo：Hina dolls It is said that the origin and roots of kinkato can be traced back to trade with the Portuguese in the mid-1500's, when things like konpeito and ariheito were presented to rulers during Hinamatsuri in Kanazawa, a castle town of the Kaga Domain during the Edo period (1603-1868 A.D.). After the Kaga Domain was abolished, these products spread to the general public as sweet confections to be displayed with Hina dolls, and were also used as wedding gifts. In the process of making kinkato, white granulated sugar that has been melted and turned into syrup is poured into a wooden mold carved by a skilled confectioner, which is then cooled gradually to make the inside hollow. After that, it is removed from the mold and pieces are colored one by one with food coloring by a Japanese confectionery chef. Kinkato is a delicate, handmade product that requires careful monitoring of temperatures, humidity, and other factors. Source :YouTube screenshot Kinkato is often shaped to look like seafood, such as sea bream, clams, and turban shells, or vegetables, such as bamboo shoots, eggplants, cucumbers, and mushrooms, or fruits, such as peaches and grapes. They are also shaped into lucky talismans, such as mandarin ducks. Kinkato" is similar to kohakuto, but the difference is that kohakuto is made from sugar and agar. Kinkato is still carefully handmade by long-established Japanese confectioners in Kanazawa and can be purchased online from Yamamoto Seika (山本製菓), Mannendo (まんねん堂), and other retailers. Since these sweets are elaborate and so difficult to make that only skilled wagashi craftsmen can make them, the price for a small decoration of two or three items can cost around 3,000 yen, while some larger items can exceed 10,000 yen. In addition, they are often sold only during Hinamatsuri and other limited periods of the year. From 0:20 in the video, you can see a close-up of kinkato, so be sure to check out the colorful and delicate handiwork. You may also be wondering what happens to kinkato after it's been used as a decoration. The most common use of kinkato is to season nimono. It can also be crushed into small pieces and eaten as a candy-like snack, or added to coffee. This makes kinkato a waste-free decoration that can be used as sugar. Mint flavor is also available, and there are products that can simply be eaten as is. Summary of Kinkato, a Tradition Springtime Confection in Kanazawa, Ishikawa Please enjoy the video "[4K Video] Kinkato at Hinamatsuri in Northern Japan: Kanazawa, Ishikawa｜nippon.com," which shows beautiful images of kinkato displayed with Hina dolls. If you find these cute and colorful sweets appealing, consider purchasing your own kinkato and displaying it in your home with the arrival of spring!

Video introduction of “Sekinodo,” a famous confectionery in Kameyama City, Mie Prefecture This video, titled "[4K video] 'Seki no To' – A Famous Confectionery Offered to the Imperial Family of Kyoto: Kameyama, Mie | nippon.com" (【4K動画】京の皇族にも献納された銘菓「関の戸」:三重県亀山市| nippon.com), was uploaded by nippon.com. "Seki no To" was created by the long-established store "Fukawaya," a Japanese confectionery shop in Kameyama, Mie, located in Japan's Tokai region. The shop was founded in the Kan'ei era (1624-1645) during the reign of Iemitsu, the third Tokugawa shogun, and Seki no To was thought up of by Iyoyasushige Hattori, a descendant of ninja. Seki no To was once used by the Imperial Household as a sweet to be paired with tea. There was even a special box that was used to deliver Seki no To to the Imperial Household. At 1:45 in the video, you can see the luxury container in which the sweets would have been stored. This traditional Japanese sweet has been loved by many people for hundreds of years, so be sure to check it out in the video! The Ingredients Used to Make Seki no To! Source :YouTube screenshot The ingredients used to make the traditional Japanese sweet are brown sugar, wasanbon, gyuhi, mizuame, and azuki beans. Seki no To is an elegant rice cake measuring roughly 3 cms in diameter. It is made by kneading mizuame and rice cake powder together and putting red bean paste inside of it. In the video, you can see the recipe for Seki no To and how it's made at 0:54 in the video. Seki no To has a shelf life of just 15 days, so be sure to enjoy it before it expires! The long-established store "Fukawaya" that sells "Seki no To" also has "Seki no To Ice Milk" a tasty ice cream. "Seki no to Ice Milk" is also very popular and is made by dissolving Seki no To in milk. Where to Purchase Seki no To Source :YouTube screenshot There are three ways to purchase Seki no To: ・At Fukawaya, the store in Mie Prefecture ・At Fukawaya's online shop ・At department stores across Japan In recent years, Fukawaya has also made and sold glass art called "Seki no To Amabie" to ward off evil. Summary of Seki no To - A Traditional Japanese Sweet Seki no To is a traditional Japanese sweet with a history dating back nearly 400 years. The name Seki no To is not only used for the traditional sweet, but also for the name of songs, kabuki plays, and even in the names of sumo wrestlers. Fukawaya, located in Mie Prefecture, has been manufacturing and selling Seki no To since the Edo period (1603-1868) as a long-established Japanese confectionery shop. If you're planning on visiting Kameyama City in Mie Prefecture, be sure to drop by Fukawaya to buy some famous, traditional Japanese sweets! 【Tripadvisor】Fukawaya https://www.tripadvisor.com/Restaurant_Review-g1019674-d3868245-Reviews-Fukagawaya_Mutsudaisho_Seki_No_To-Kameyama_Mie_Prefecture_Tokai_Chubu.html

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

Video introduction of the rakugan (wild geese) offered at the puja at Senshuji Temple in Tsu City, Mie Prefecture, Japan. This video, titled "[4K Video] Rakugan – A Japanese Sweet Offered at Senjuji Temple: Tsu, Mie｜nippon.com" (【4K動画】専修寺（せんじゅじ）の法会に供される落雁:三重県津市一身田町| nippon.com), was uploaded by "nippon.com." In this 4K video, you can see the traditional Japanese sweet rakugan, made by Okadaya and offered at Senjuji Temple, as if you were actually seeing it with your own eyes. 　　[Video] 0:28 - Rakugan 　　[Video] 1:50 - A Buddhist Service at Senjuji Temple Senjuji Temple is the head temple of the Takata sect of Shinshu Buddhism, which has more than 600 temples throughout Japan. Located in Tsu, Mie, in Japan's Tokai region, the temple houses Nyoraido and Mieido, the first buildings in Mie Prefecture to be designated as national treasures, as well as many other national treasures related Buddhism and Important Cultural Properties designated by the government of Japan. Every year from January 9 to 16, Shinshu's largest Buddhist memorial service, Hoonko, is held here. The signature traditional Japanese sweet offered at the altar of such an important Buddhist service at Senshuji Temple is rakugan. Okadaya is the sweets shop that supplies these rakugan to Senjuji Temple. Okadaya was founded in 1868 and is a long-established confectionary in Tsu, Mie, the same city as Senjuji Temple. Currently, in addition to Japanese sweets such as rakugan, sakura okoshi, and otafuku manju, Okadaya also sells fresh and colorful birthday cakes, wedding cakes, and cakes with illustrations, made with seasonal ingredients. What Is Rakugan? Origin, Characteristics, and How It's Made Photo：Rakugan Rakugan is a traditional Japanese sweet commonly used in tea ceremony or as an offering. It's made by kneading grain-derived flour with sugar or syrup, pressing it into a mold, forming it, and drying it. Rakugan is also a type of higashi. Higashi refers to dried wagashi with less than 20% water content. Major types of higashi include rakugan, konpeito, senbei, and yatsuhashi. Wagashi can be classified into three categories: fresh confectioneries, semi-perishable confectioneries, and dried confectioneries. Rakugan, wasanbon, and yatsuhashi belong to the dried confectionery category. Rakugan, which are very hard, are mostly made of sugar, meaning that the flavor of the ingredients can be enjoyed as is, and because they contain little water, they are resistant to mold and last a long time. Because of its unique hardness, it's easy to form patterns on the surface, and it's possible to make patterns in the shape of flowers, family crests, cranes and turtles, and other auspicious symbols, and it can also be colored in various colors with food coloring. These characteristics are what make rakugan suitable as an offering, and thus they are frequently used as such. There are two popular theories about the origin of the name rakugan (落雁): the first is that the name comes from the Chinese sweet nanrakukan (軟落甘) and that the name changed over time, and the second is that it was named after Katata no Rakugan (堅田落雁, Wild Geese Returning Home at Katata) one of the Eight Views of Omi. Rakugan are said to have originated when a disciple of the Buddha served rakugan to monks during the Bon Festival. The word "rakugan" (落雁) means "geese flying down from the sky," and is a well-known seasonal word used in Japanese poetry to represent autumn. Rakugan, Wasanbon, and Hakusetsuko – Three Types of Japanese Sweets Photo：Wasanbon Hakusetsuko and wasanbon are two other types of higashi and are difficult to distinguish from rakugan. Here, we'll explain the differences and uses of rakugan, hakusetsuko and wasanbon. Both rakugan and hakusetsuko can be colored red and white and decorated with patterns, and are typical traditional Japanese sweets used as offerings for the Bon Festival. Rakugan are made from steamed and dried rice powder, while hakusetsuko are made from raw rice powder. Wasanbon is made by molding only wasanbon, a type of sugar, and therefore differs from rakugan and hakusetsu-kan in both ingredients and how it's made. Wasanbon is a specialty of Kagawa and Tokushima prefectures, and is made by refining sugarcane juice. Today, it's considered a high-end sugar due to its scarcity and the decrease in the number of producers. It's mainly used as sugar for Japanese sweets, and is especially famous for its use in higashi sweets. How to Store Rakugan and How Long It Can Be Kept Photo：Bon Festival offerings The reason why rakugan is used as an offering is because its ability to last for a long time. So, by when should rakugan be eaten? If stored properly, rakugan can be kept for more than a month and eaten without any problems. On the other hand, if they are not stored properly, their quality may deteriorate quickly. The key to preserving the quality of rakugan is to avoid humidity and sunlight. Because of its high sugar content, rakugan easily absorbs moisture, especially during Japan's rainy season, and when it absorbs moisture, it spoils much quicker. In addition, colored rakugan will lose their color when exposed to sunlight. If they are to be served after being dedicated as an offering, it's important to pay attention to humidity, sunlight, and the time of year they are offered. To prevent spoiling from humidity, we recommend wrapping the rakugan in film. As tea sweets, rakugan can be stored in an airtight container without losing quality if kept out of direct sunlight. How to Enjoy Rakugan and Recipes They Can Be Used In Photo：Rakugan sugar The following is a list of delicious ways to eat rakugan as well as recipes they can be used in. Since the main ingredient of rakugan is sugar, it can be processed into a powder using a grater, food processor, or mill, and used as a substitute for sugar in a wide variety of applications. For example, we recommend using it in coffee, tea, or other beverages, or in yogurt or pancakes, as it's particularly easy to utilize. By using it in these ways, you can enjoy the taste of rakugan that have hardened over time, as opposed to eating them as they are. Summary of Rakugan, a Traditional Japanese Sweet In this article, we introduced rakugan, a higashi (dried confectionery) that's also offered at the Buddhist memorial service at Senjuji Temple. With a long history, rakugan has been loved throughout Japan to the extent that it has been selected as one of the three most famous confectioneries in the country. If you have the chance to try this traditional Japanese sweet, definitely give it a go!

A Look at Kyo Tsukimachian's Broad Bean "Rice" Crackers Made Using Traditional Techniques! In this video, we see a craftsman baking bean crackers in Gion, Kyoto. The Gion branch of Kyo Tsukimachian offers a variety of bean crackers, made with plenty of broad beans and carefully baked using a traditional method. How about a souvenir from Gion? Check out the video to see how they bake the bean crackers! ◆Kyo Tsukimachian Store Information◆ 【Address】247-14, Gion Kitagawa, Higashiyama, Kyoto, Kyoto (京都府京都市東山区祇園町北側247-14) 【Access】A 1 minute walk from Gion-Shijo Station from the Keihan Electric Railway 【Admission Fee】¥110+ 【Business Hours】10:00-19:00 【Closures】None 【Parking】None 【Phone】075-533-0141 【Official Homepage】Kyo Tsukimachian Kyoto Branch https://www.kyo-tsukimachian.com/ 【Tabelog】Kyo Tsukianmachi Kyoto Branch https://tabelog.com/en/kyoto/A2601/A260301/26024783/

What is the pride of Kanazawa City, Ishikawa Prefecture, Hokuriku Region, and its food culture Kami-gashi? This video, titled "Jonamagashi: Kanazawa Food Culture, Seasonal Japanese Sweets｜nippon.com" (上生菓子：四季を彩る金沢の菓子文化| nippon.com), was created by "nippon.com." Kanazawa City in Ishikawa Prefecture was a castle town of the Kaga domain during the Edo Period, and the traditional Japanese sweets produced here are some of the best in Japan, on par with those produced in Kyoto (京都府) and Matsue, Shimane (島根県松江市). There are three main types of Wagashi (traditional Japanese sweets): Higashi (干菓子), Namagashi (生菓子), and Jonamagashi. Of these three types of wagashi, Jonamagashi is thought to have played an integral role in the development of tea ceremony culture in Japan. Kanazawa is a city steeped in culture and history, second only to Kyoto in Japan, and has a tradition of producing high quality, artistic Jonamagashi famously decorated with gold leaf. A high level of skill is required to make Jonamagashi, which is what makes them so special amongst Japanese sweets. They are a confectionary that appeals to all five senses and are a great way to celebrate the changing of the seasons. The History of Jonamagashi and Tea Ceremony Photo：Tea Ceremony Tea ceremony in Japan dates back to the Azuchi-Momoyama Period when it was systematized by Sen no Rikyu (千利休) who is considered the founder of tea ceremony. It wasn't until the 1,700's, during the genroku portion of the Edo Period, that tea ceremony really spread throughout the rest of Japan, and Kanazawa is thought to be the birthplace of Noto (能登) Jonamagashi. Tea ceremony is held based on a particular theme, and the tools used vary depending on the chosen theme. This is called "dougugumi" (道具組). Wagashi are carefully selected and only those which complement the tools used in tea ceremony are chosen. This is also taken into consideration when creating Jonamagashi, resulting in a variety of beautiful shapes and designs. Artisan wagashi makers must channel all of their skills into the creation of one type of wagashi. You can hear Ishikawa Prefecture Tea Ceremony Association representative Sosui Oshima (大島宗翠) speak more about the subject from 0:54 in the video. How To Make Jonamagashi Source :YouTube screenshot Second generation wagashi maker Hironobu Yoshihashi of the well-established wagashi store "Yoshihashi" (吉はし), which has been in business for over 70 years, is featured in the video from 1:17. Enjoy watching the skilled hands of the artisan wagashi makers. Since Japan has a very warm and humid climate, a high proportion of sugar is necessary to preserve the wagashi. However, in the past, sugar was a luxury product that could only be afforded by the rich and wealthy. A great deal of thought and care is put into the taste, texture, design and feel of Jonamagashi. Jonamagashi are often referred to as the ultimate wagashi, with an extremely high level of artistic quality. From 1:58 in the video, you can take a look at Jonamagashi which have been designed to represent each month of the year. Summary of Kanazawa's Jonamagashi Source :YouTube screenshot From 0:45 in the video, you can see "Ajisai" (紫陽花), the most famous Jonamagashi. This is one of the items available for purchase at Kanazawa's wagashi store, "Yoshihashi". You can purchase Jonamagashi from Yoshihashi by ordering online before visiting the store. Beautiful Jonamagashi from the wagashi store Yoshihashi are the perfect souvenir to take home from your trip to Kanazawa! Jonamagashi are also a great way to enjoy the changing seasons, a treat which is pleasing for both the eyes and taste buds!

日本伝統の「和菓子」紹介動画について こちらの動画は「Japan Video Topics - 日本語」が公開した「伝統の和菓子が魅せる新しい世界」です。 日本人の伝統料理「和食」が無形文化遺産に登録されたのが2013年。 和食はたちまちブームになり、世界中に日本料理店ができました。 そして今、日本食の中でも伝統のお菓子「和菓子」が人気を集めています。 日本特有の季節の風情を反映させ、おもてなしの心が込められる和食と和菓子は、その繊細な見た目と味、そしてヘルシーさが世界中で評価されているのです。 美しい様々な和菓子やその歴史、作り方をこちらの動画でお楽しみください。 日本伝統のお菓子「和菓子」の種類と原料 和菓子には、生菓子、半生菓子、干菓子の大きく3つの種類があります。 生菓子はおはぎや羊羹、練り切りなど水分量が30％以上のお菓子のことを言い、干菓子は落雁（らくがん）やあられなどの水分量が10％以下のもの、半生菓子は最中や饅頭などの生地や餡を組み合わせたものを指します。 いずれの和菓子も基本的な原料として、豆、米類などが使われていて、砂糖以外の食材の甘味を生かしています。 食材は和食のように種類豊富ではありませんが、出来上がるお菓子はその形や色で季節を感じさせてくれます。 見る人の目を楽しませる「練り切り」とレシピ 様々な種類がある和菓子ですが、中でも見た目が美しくて繊細なのが「練り切り」です。 練り切りの材料には、白いんげんなどの白い豆が使われています。 修行を積んだ職人が、豆を煮て潰し、それを練り上げ、色をつけて形を整えて作られます。 この形を整える過程で様々な繊細な細工が施され、四季を色鮮やかに表現することが特徴です。 日本の伝統的なおもてなしの場で 練り切りは、お客様を日本伝統の「お茶」でおもてなしをする際に古くから使われています。 苦味の強いお茶の味を、見た目が美しい和菓子の繊細な甘さがまろやかにするのです。 アートとしての練り切り このように見た目が美しい練り切りを、お菓子の枠を超えて一種の芸術として表現しているのが、和菓子職人の三堀純一氏です。 食べる和菓子としての完成品の練り切りのみならず、その練り切りを作るための様々な小道具、作る過程の和菓子職人の所作など一つ一つに、一般的には見られることがなかった趣があります。 三堀氏は、この練り切りが作られる過程を楽しんでもらう空間を作り上げ、たちまち世界で評価されるようになりました。 見たこともないような専門道具を使いながら繊細な曲線を描き、華やかなアート作品に仕上げていく。 舌を楽しませる前に、目と心を楽しませ、伝統を感じさせる、まさに日本が誇る“おもてなし”の空間を作っていると言えるでしょう。 日本伝統の「和菓子」紹介まとめ 和菓子は四季の情景、静寂、繊細さを感じさせる特有の美しさを持ち合わせています。 ため息が出るほど美しい職人技。 日本のおもてなしの心を伝える和菓子の動画をぜひご覧ください。

Video Introduction This video, titled "How to open Ramune??a marble in a bottle?," was uploaded by "Food Tripping," a channel that introduces all sorts of foods, both from Japan and around the world. How to Open Ramune, a Popular Summertime Drink in Japan Photo：How to open a Ramune bottle Ramune is a popular summertime drink in Japan. If you've never tried the drink before, or even heard of it, then you're missing out! Ramune has been around for quite a long time now, but if you've never had it before you might struggle with how to open it. Check out the video to see how to open a ramune bottle. [Video] 0:42 - How to open a Ramune bottle To open a Ramune bottle, remove the plastic wrapper along the perforations. Then, hold the special plunger that comes with the bottle in your hand. While holding the bottle with your other hand, push the plunger into the mouth of the bottle, and the marble that served as the stopper will fall down into the bottle. Disposing of Ramune Bottles These old-fashioned Ramune bottles are made of glass. Therefore, some people may not know how to dispose of them. Glass Ramune bottles must be disposed of according to the regulations of each municipality in Japan. Alternatively, they are sometimes accepted by supermarkets and liquor stores. In the case of glass Ramune bottles, it's possible to reuse them, so it is best to return them to the place where you purchased the Ramune. Why Ramune Has a Marble Inside It Photo：Ramune Today, ordinary ramune bottles are corked with a marble. By dropping the marble, the stopper is released and the Ramune is ready to drink. Ramune itself is delicious but the bottle is also fun to open and can leave you feeling nostalgic. If you had the joy of opening drinks like this or eating snacks with an extra element of fun added in when you were a kid. When Ramune bottles were first sold, they were sealed with a cork instead of a marble. However, because of the high price of cork and the fact that it drained the carbonation of the Ramune, marbles were conceived as an alternative. According to one theory, the marble method was developed in England in 1872, and imported to Japan in 1887, where the marble Ramune bottle became widespread. Later, however, the use of PET bottles and other bottles became popular as substitutes for glass Ramune bottles in Japan, leading to many manufacturers discontinuing the use of glass Ramune bottles. The old-fashioned marble stopper Ramune bottle is a summertime tradition in Japan and is considered the original Ramune. Although the glass bottle style is decreasing due to the rise of PET bottles, Ramune bottles are once again attracting attention on Japanese social media, such as Instagram. Where to Buy Ramune in Japan Photo：A Ramune bottle It might be difficult to find Ramune if you aren't actively looking for it. However, they're sold at supermarkets and candy stores in Japan, so if you manage to find them at a supermarket, consider trying it out! A case of 30 200 ml bottles costs about 3,000 yen (~$22 USD), so you can enjoy the refreshing taste of bottled Ramune for about 100 yen per bottle. Summary of Ramune, a Tasty Drink to Cool of During Japan's Hot Summers In this article, we introduced Ramune, a popular summertime drink/tradition in Japan. If you've never had the chance to try Ramune, definitely give it a try. You even get a free marble to play around with afterwards! Recently, bottled Ramune has been popularized on Japanese social media among the younger generation because of its retro look and how photogenic it is on Instagram. If you're a fan of anime/manga and light novels, you may have even heard about Ramune from the light novel "Chitose is in the Ramune Bottle." Originally, Ramune is said to have originated from lemonade, which was created in England, and its refreshing taste and cool feeling are what make it so great for summer. If you're craving some Ramune after reading this, don't be shy, pick up a bottle next time you see it!

『Kirakira Donki Video Introduction Sweets and other types of cute goods are very popular on Japanese Twitter and TikTok. Many people are tempted to check out these popular goods, but don't actually know where to buy them. In this article, we'll introduce Kirakira Donki, a trendy shop that recently opened in Odaiba. The video, titled "Kirakira Donki Opens in Odaiba! What's There to See? TBS NEWS DIG" (「キラキラドンキ」お台場にオープン！見所は？【Ｎスタ】｜TBS NEWS DIG), was uploaded by "TBS NEWS DIG Powered by JNN." Be sure to give it a watch! Kirakira Donki in Odaiba, Tokyo Source :YouTube screenshot Kirakira Donki opened in Tokyo's DiverCity, a shopping mall in Odaiba, in May 2022. Don Quijote has developed stores specializing in different concepts, such as "Okashi Donki" specializing in sweets, "Sake Donki" specializing in sake, "Cosme Donki" specializing in cosmetics, and even "Konkara Donki" which specializes in spicy foods. Their newest store, Kirakira Donki, which targets "Generation Z," has now popped up in Odaiba with trendy items, such as cosmetics and sweets that are popular on Japanese social media! About 60% of the staff working there are Generation Z, in their teens and 20s, and they select products that are popular on social media, as well as cutely-colored goods. In the video, you can see the inside of the newly opened Kirakira Donki. When you enter "Kirakira Donki," you'll see Don Quijote's official character "Don Pen" painted everywhere, and the ceiling is decorated in a playful style, reminiscent of an amusement park. In addition, large, cute pop-ups and handwritten product descriptions are meant to make the store catch the customer's eyes. These are just a few of the many creative details that draw customers to the store. Goods Sold at Kirakira Donki Source :YouTube screenshot The store has a wide variety of Korean food products, such as Planet Gummi, that became popular on Japanese TikTok, photogenic candies shaped like stars and hearts, as well as juices and even popular Korean and Chinese cosmetics that can be purchased for 500 yen or less! The store features a whopping 10,000 products that appeal to Japan's Gen Z. In addition, they have "Mobile Foods," like waffles and "Beauty Vinegar" drinks for take-out. 4,000 Kinds of Cute Cosmetics and Nearly 2,000 Varieties of Candy! There are about 4,000 reasonably-priced cosmetics sold at the store. This summer's hot sellers include stick-type A'pieu sunscreen in cute colors and bang styling sticks. The bang styling sticks are a popular product among teenagers that helps neatly tuck away frizzy hair during Japan's rainy season. In addition, there's a selection of around 1,800 kinds of sweets popular on Japanese social media, including cookies, gummies, and all sorts of candies. There's sure to be a candy that you'll like! Gummies Galore! Source :YouTube screenshot The Planet Gummi gummies became a hot topic on Japanese social media because of the sound they make when opened. The video even shows an elementary school girl that came to the store with her parents saying, "I'm happy I got to try the Planet Gummi gummies that I'd seen YouTubers eating! The girl's mom, who came with her to the store, also seemed to enjoy herself. Planet Gummi is a favorite in Japan, and now they're also available in a transparent blue color called "Planet Candy." This product was created by a long-established company founded in 1975. This candy is also slowly gaining popularity and is sure to be popping up on Japanese Instagram in the near future. In an interview with a customer to the store, she says "I was able buy some Korean snacks like Planet Gummi and Ozzy Strawberry so I'm happy!" Some of the items are available on the Internet, but being able to buy them in person is a totally different experience. In addition to the "Planet Gummi," new snacks such as "Pop Eye" and "Monster Gummies" that resemble poke balls are also popular on Japanese social media. Kirakira Donki has tons of products that fulfill the desires of Generation Z. It might even become a new tourist attraction in Tokyo! ◆Kirakira Donki DiverCity Tokyo Plaza Store◆ Hours: 10 AM – 9 PM Address: Tokyo Plaza 2F, 1-1-10 DiverCity Aomi, Koto-ku, Tokyo, JAPAN, 135-0064 Access: Public Transportation - A 5 minute walk from Daiba Station via the Yurikamome Line, a 3 minute walk from Tokyo Teleport Station via the JR Rinkai Line 【Official Website】Odaiba DiverCity Tokyo Plaza - Mitsui Shopping Park https://mitsui-shopping-park.com/divercity-tokyo/ 【TripAdvisor】DiverCity Tokyo Plaza https://www.tripadvisor.jp/Attraction_Review-g1066449-d2696968-Reviews-Diver_City_Tokyo_Plaza-Koto_Tokyo_Tokyo_Prefecture_Kanto.html

Matsushima Bay Area Cycling Guide: Video Introduction This video, titled "Cycling to the Matsushima Bay Area (History and Cafe Tours)" (Cycling to Matsushima Bay Area(歴史とカフェ巡り編)), was uploaded by "Miyagi Tourism." Matsushima Bay, located in Sendai, Miyagi is one of the three most scenic views in Japan, along with Miyajima (Itsukushima) and Amanohashidate. The video shows three women traveling through the area by bicycle. You can see the women enjoying a cruise through Sagakei Gorge, one of the Top 3 Gorges in Japan, a footbath, and delicious food in Higashi-Matsushima. Matsushima Bay Area Cycling – Travel Around the Beautiful Bay in Miyagi Without the Need for a Car Photo：Sendai International Airport The Cycling Port, Sendai International Airport is, as the name suggests, located at Sendai International Airport. Bicycles can be assembled, disassembled, and tires can be inflated for free. Luggage lockers, showers, and changing rooms are also available for a fee. For those without a car or bicycle with them on their trip, there is also the option of renting a bicycle. The Matsushima Bay area has a cycling course that is only about 10 km (6.2 miles) long and is great for beginner-level cyclists. The best part of the bicycles is that you can take your time, enjoy the scenery, stop wherever and whenever you like, and even get some exercise. Where to Eat in Matsushima Bay Photo：Oysters, a specialty of Matsushima If you're hungry, consider grabbing lunch at SHICHINO CAFE&PIZZA. It's a stylish cafe with a view of the ocean so it's perfect for taking Instagram photos. [Video] 0:36 - SHICHINO CAFE&PIZZA The café has authentic pizza, a variety of desserts, and a café menu for a quick break. You can enjoy your meal while feeling the breeze from the terrace seats with a spectacular view of the ocean as well. If you're looking for places to stay in Matsushima Bay, be sure to check out the condominium hotel, as it's popular for overnight stays! Gelateria Fruit Laboratory is a long-established gelato shop with 50 years of history. As the name suggests, they offer a variety of fruit-based gelato, but their milk-based gelato is also quite popular. The colorful gelato all looks so delicious that it can be hard to decide which one to get. If there's one thing Matsushima is known for, its oysters! Hiroshima and Miyagi are the two largest sources of oysters in Japan, with Miyagi Prefecture ranking first in raw oyster harvest. The oysters in Matsushima are smaller than those of Hiroshima, but they have a concentrated, rich flavor and creamy texture. If you're a seafood lover, be sure to keep an eye out for restaurants that are selling them! After filling up with various delicacies in Matsushima, be sure to check out a souvenir shop. At Yukitakeya (雪竹屋) you'll find products that are individually handmade and that allow you to experience Japanese culture. There are also many original products, including food and sundries, that are perfect for souvenirs. You can even enjoy freshly baked rice crackers here. [Video] 2:05 - Yukitakeya's Freshly Baked Rice Crackers Enjoy the Beautiful Views of Miyagi With a Matsushima Bay Cruise Photo：A cruise ship, Matsushima, Miyagi Matsushima Bay is one of the three most scenic views in Japan along with Miyajima (Itsukushima) and Amanohashidate, and is known as one of the most popular tourist attractions in Miyagi Prefecture. It's said that even the famous Japanese poet Matsuo Basho was moved to speechlessness by the beauty of the bay. The beautiful island, which Basho would have seen, still attracts many visitors to this day. Sagakei Gorge is one of the Top 3 Gorges in Japan and is recommended for its sightseeing cruises! From the cruise boat, you can enjoy a beautiful view of Sagakei Gorge, and the panoramic view of its majestic cliffs is breathtaking! A cruise will take about 60 minutes. The sightseeing cruise allows visitors to see the island from angles they wouldn't normally be able to. You can see the island as they would have been in the past and connect with the long history of the island. Zuiganji Temple and Entsuji Temple – Two of the Best Places to Visit in Matsushima Bay There are a ton of things to do in and around Matsushima Bay that you don't want to miss. Godaido Temple (belonging to the nearby Zuiganji Temple), an Important Cultural Property of Japan, is located on an island near the Matsushima sightseeing boat pier. The temple was built by the famous samurai Date Masamune, and has a famous bridge that is said to bring good luck. It is said that the bridge was built so that visitors could see the sea through the gaps in the bridge girders and keep their eyes on their feet as they made their way to Godaido Temple. The bridge itself, as well as the view of Matsushima Bay from the bridge, is great for taking Instagram photos. Photo：Zuiganji Temple, Matsushima, Miyagi Zuiganji Temple is famous as the family temple of Date Masamune. The main hall, which was built by order of Date Masamune over a period of five years, is a National Treasure. The interior carvings and fusuma-e (sliding door paintings), are a sight to behold. Photo：Entsuin Temple, Matsushima, Miyagi Another place to visit in Matsushima Bay is Entsuin Temple, built in 1647 as the mausoleum of Mitsumune, grandson of Date Masamune. The mausoleum, Sankeiden, is located in the back of the main hall and is an Important Cultural Property of Japan. The temple is also a famous sightseeing spot as a temple for matchmaking, and has a statue of Kannon, the Goddess of Mercy and matchmaking, enshrined just inside the temple gate. Visitors can also enjoy the colorful autumn leaves here in the fall, or simply take a moment to relax in the lovely garden. There is also a "juzu" (Buddhist prayer bead) making experience where you can make your own original prayer beads. [Video] 2:41 - Prayer Bead Making Experience Kanrantei is said to be a Momoyama-style tea ceremony room that used to be in Fushimi Castle, which was given to Date Masamune by Toyotomi Hideyoshi. Even today, matcha green tea and sweets are served here, allowing visitors to relax and enjoy the view of Matsushima Bay. How to Get to Matsushima Bay To get to Matsushima Bay from Tokyo, first take the Tohoku Shinkansen to Sendai Station (90 mins). From Sendai Station, take the Senseki Line bound for Ishinomaki to Matsushima-Kaigan Station (40 mins). Alternatively, after arriving at Sendai Station, you can also take the Tohoku Line train bound for Matsushima and get off at Matsushima Station (25 mins), and then walk to the bay (15 mins). Matsushima Bay Cycling Tourism Guide Summary Matsushima Bay is full of history and delicious foods to try. If you're traveling to Matsushima, there are a variety of inns and hotels overlooking Matsushima Bay. Many of the hot springs are also available for those visiting on day trips as well, so be sure to check them out. There is also a free footbath spot in Matsushima, but it is unfortunately closed at this time. There are many things to see and do in the Matsushima Bay area. When you travel to Miyagi Prefecture, be sure to take a sightseeing boat ride and stop by the spots introduced here. 【TripAdvisor】 Matsushima Bay