Experience "Kawaii" Culture in Harajuku! "Kawaii" everywhere! Lolita Tour Guide, Harajuku Tour (06/18/26)" (「カワイイ」連発！ロリータガイドと巡る原宿ツアー(18/06/26)」), is a video released by "AnnnewsCH," of a Lolita fashion guide taking foreign tourists on a tour of popular spots in Harajuku, such as grocery stores and cafes. Now that Kawaii (cute) culture is gaining popularity throughout the world, more and more foreigners are coming to Japan to experience the Japanese subculture, instead of touring Japan's high packed tourist attractions. This article introduces Japan's kawaii culture with a focus on Harajuku tours led by Lolita fashionistas. A Look at "Kawaii" Lolitas Photo：Lolita fashion girl A growing number of foreigners visit Japan to take a tour of Takeshita Street, the holy land of lolitas. At present, there are tours that are soaring in popularity among foreign visitors to Japan. That tour, is the lolita-fashion Harajuku tour! Lolita guides will take you through trendy boutiques and cafes dealing with cute fashion, and you can enjoy a tour packed with "kawaii." The tour can be viewed at 0:12 in the video. Lolita fashion refers to cute fashion, such as dolls, clothes with lots of laces and frills, and hairstyles with large ribbons. Street fashion, a look sported by many young women in Japan, is said to have been born in Harajuku. The lolita girl played by Kyoko Fukada, from the movie "Kamikaze Girls" released in 2004, triggered a sudden rise in popularity. The Kawaii Harajuku Tour! Source :YouTube screenshot The Harajuku tour, which allows you to experience kawaii, is a tour that takes you to Takeshita Street, Omotesando, Urahara, Cat Street, Meiji Street, and other kawaii shopping spots where you can discover new forms of kawaii in every corner. Takeshita Street is a shopping street in Jingumae, Shibuya, and is a pedestrian mall for young people.. It's a very exciting spot, filled with couples on dates and students on school trips. This tour will take you to a number of shopping and lunch spots, including boutiques selling Lolita fashion, Instagrammable cafes, and shops offering crepes and other sweets. You can see the kawaii Harajuku tour throughout the video, including shopping at the cute little shop on a back street (1:55), having a quick bite to eat at the cute little cafe (2:17), and experiencing a kawaii show like at 2:26. You can see kawaii everywhere along the Harajuku tour! Japan's Unique "Kawaii" Culture Source :Harajuku Kawaii Tour Kawaii is a Japanese word that expresses loveliness and charm. It is similar to "Cute" when translated into English, but the nuance of "Cute" is slightly different from that of "Kawaii" in Japan as it has a childish feel to it. Since there is no other word that fits the word "Kawaii" exactly, the Japanese word "Kawaii" has come to be used abroad as is. The success of Kyary Pamyu Pamyu was also a catalyst for the popularity of kawaii culture around the world. Recently, BABYMETAL, a band that plays metal music in kawaii fashion, has also become popular overseas, and the number of people from abroad who like kawaii culture may continue to increase in the future. Summary of "Kawaii" Culture Source :YouTube screenshot This article introduced the Harajuku Kawaii Tour along with the video "Kawaii" everywhere! Lolita Tour Guide, Harajuku Tour (06/18/26)," by "AnnnewsCH." In the video, you'll see how to enjoy Japan's unique culture by visiting various spots where you can experience "kawaii"! Enjoy a tour that adds a new element of discovery to the traditional experience of Japan! 【Official Website】Takeshita Street official map -Harajuku latest information- https://www.takeshita-street.com/ 【Official Website】Harajuku Kawaii Tour https://www.harajuku-kawaii-tour.com/

Check out the Video Introducing Maid Cafes in Japan! We'll take a close look at maid cafe culture in Japan. This is a video introducing Japan's maid cafes, “Introducing @home cafe Osaka main location PV” located in Osaka. The beginning of Otaku culture started in Japan. It has since spread all over the world and become popular worldwide. Many people are curious about this modern culture of maid cafes. Maid cafes, where maids work as waitresses, can be found in many places in Japan. However, maid cafes are mainly located in Akihabara, Tokyo and Nihonbashi, Osaka. If you are curious about Japanese modern cultures such as subculture and Otaku culture, please try visiting a maid cafe. Introducing the culture of maid cafe in Japan! Photo：Old town coffee shop It has been said that the origins of Japan's maid cafe culture started around theMeiji era (in 1912). “Cafe Lion” is the very first maid cafe, located in Ginza and Ueno in Tokyo. Maid cafes built a reputation for good looking Japanese girls wearing aprons on top of Japanese style uniforms. Throughout its long history, maid cafes have transformed and created the modern Kawaii culture of Japan. What Kind of Services Are Available at Japan's Maid Cafes Source :YouTube screenshot As you can see in the video at 0:07, the maids are dressed in cute uniforms and give the best service. As you can see in the video at 0:45, there are several different menus available such as a photogenic cafe menu which is Instagrammable, and a rice omelet with a cute message on top. You can also enjoy having conversations with the maids and take pictures together. Some cafes hold a live singing performance as you can see in the video at 0:56. The Different Types of Japanese Maid Cafes Photo：Maid There are several different types of maid cafes in Japan. Besides the modern style maid cafe which you see in the video, there are Japanese themed cafes where they serve Japanese sweets as well. Popular maid cafes are the "@home cafe," in Akihabara and Osaka, and "Maid Ri-min" in Nagoya. It will be fun to visit different maid cafes in different cities. Each maid cafe has different prices and different menus. Japanese Maid Cafe Summary Source :YouTube screenshot Japanese maid cafes became a modern culture of Japan, and it is a symbol of “Kawaii” culture. You can get more than what you get at regular restaurants. Please check the official website of each maid cafe for the service, menu, and pricing. Many cafes are perfect for first time visitors, so please don’t hesitate if you are new to maid cafes. ◆@Home cafe Osaka main location Outline◆ 【Address】B1F SEM building 1st floor, 4-9-13, Nihonbashi, Naniwa, Osaka-shi, Osaka 【Access】5 minutes walk from the ext 1-A at Ebisucho station on Osaka metro Sakaisuji line 【Admission Fee】Adult: 700 Yen 【Hours】11:00 〜 22:00 【Closures】Irregular 【Parking】Not available 【Phone Number】06-6585-9760 【Official Website】@Home cafe https://www.cafe-athome.com/

The Popteen Cover Photo Shoot This video introduces "The making of the Popteen cover（人気ギャル雑誌『Popteen』の表紙ができるまで！）". Popteen is a teenage fashion magazine published by the Kadokawa Haruki Corporation. The first issue was published in 1980. These three gorgeous girls in kimono appearing in the video made the cover of the 2012 January issue. The video captures their cover photo shoot scene. This article is to introduce the Gyaru culture and reader models alongside the video. What Are Reader Models? Source :YouTube screenshot The models who appear from 0:37 are Mizukitty (Mizuki Nishiyama), Kumikky (Kumiko Funayama) and Pikarin (Hikari Shiina). They were the active reader models for Popteen when the video was made in 2011. Many of the former Popteen models, such as Moe Oshikiri, Nicole Fujita, Tsubasa Masuwaka, and Rola, later made a success break into the TV industry or got a big break as an exclusive model or even an actress, and have been active to this day. How Did They Become Models? Photo：Shibuya 109 In many cases, they became models after being recruited by a magazine editor while walking down the streets of Shibuya or Harajuku. These three cover girls also used to be just ordinary teenagers who hung out in Shibuya or Harajuku. "Popteen": The Kawaii Bible! Source :YouTube screenshot Shibuya and Harajuku are the epicenter of Kawaii culture. These areas represent Japan's youth culture, and serve as the source of numerous teen slang such as "Agepoyo" which is slang to describe that you're pumped up or excited about something. The magazine Popteen plays a leading role in Japanese teen culture. The freebies attached to the magazine is another reason for its popularity among teens who need to have the latest fashion. The Summary of the Popteen Cover Shoot Video Source :YouTube screenshot This article introduced the Popteen cover photo shoot, and the role that the magazine plays to inspire the Gyaru culture. Dressed in the gorgeous kimonos, the models with Gyaru makeup do kawaii poses, as seen from 0:16. The actual magazine cover appears at 2:04. Check out the latest issue of Popteen if you like Kawaii culture or want to get inspired by cute charismatic reader models.

The Main Characters of the Children's Anime "Sumikko Gurashi"! This video, titled "Sumikko Gurashi Introduction Animation" (すみっコぐらし紹介アニメーション), was posted by "San-x Channel." It introduces the main characters of the popular animation "Sumikko Gurashi," including "Shirokuma" (a polar bear), "Penguin?," "Tonkatsu" (a pork cutlet), "Neko," (a cat) and "Tokage" (a lizard). This article will introduce the characters and charms of Sumikko Gurashi, alongside the video. We hope you enjoy the video about Sumikko Gurashi, narrated by Toshiki Masuda, a popular voice actor perfect for the world of Sumikko Gurashi. What Is Sumikko Gurashi? Source :YouTube screenshot Sumikko Gurashi (roughly translated as "Life in the Corner") is a set of original characters by "San-x," and has the sub title "It's calm here." The characters were designed by Yuri Yokomizo, a designer at San-x’s. The character are created with the theme that "corners make you feel calm." Sumikko Gurashi, which was created in 2012, is very popular, especially among children, and sales of related products in 2019 amounted to about 20 billion yen. The main characters are called Sumikko, and the side characters are called Minikko. New characters are being created as well. All of the characters are characterized by a somewhat pessimistic personality, such as being troubled and lacking in self-confidence, on top of also being cute, this is what makes them so attractive. There is a wide variety of Sumikko Gurashi merchandise, including stationary, plush toys, pouches, tableware, miscellaneous goods, figurines, toy computers, origami, and many other goods that have been made into movies and games. If you search for Sumikko Gurashi on Amazon, you'll find a variety of products for sale, from children's toys to coloring books to games. For prices, please check the store where the item is sold. Also, the "Rilakkuma & Sumikko Gurashi Festival" collaboration event at the Yokohama ASOBUILD was originally scheduled to begin in April 2020, but was unfortunately postponed due to the spread of the new coronavirus. The Main Characters of Sumikko Gurashi Source :YouTube screenshot Let's take a look at the main characters of Sumikko Gurashi! 1. Shirokuma (0:04) Shirokuma is a polar bear that migrated from the north to the south, to avoid the cold. He feels calm when drinking tea in a corner. He also cherishes his big polka dotted furoshiki cloth. 2. Penguin? (0:51) Penguin? lacks confidence about whether or not he is actually a penguin and feels as though he may have had a dish on his head in the past (alluding to him possibly being a kappa). 3. Tonkatsu (1:12) Tonkatsu is the end of pork cutlet, frequently left uneaten for being too oily (99% fat). It is the second Sumikko to arrive at the corner. 4．Neko (1:50） Neko is a shy, timid, and plump cat that often gives the corner to other members. Most of the time it scratches its nails on the wall. 5. Tokage (2:21) Tokage is actually an aquatic dinosaur but feigns being a lizard so that he isn't captured He occasionally catches fish for Neko. Minikko, such as Ebifurai no Shippo (tail of a fried shrimp), Zassou (weeds), Tapioca, Hokori (dust), Suzume (sparrow), and Nisetsumuri (a slug) appear at 2:51 in the video. Enjoy the cute characters of Sumikko Gurashi! Summary of Sumikko Gurashi Source :YouTube screenshot The video "Sumikko Gurashi Introduction Animation" introduces the somewhat surrealistic world of Sumikkoo Gurashi's main characters. If you're interested in Sumikko Gurashi, be sure to check out the official Sumikko Gurashi website for the latest information! 【Official Website】Sumikko Gurashi official web site –San-x http://www.san-x.jp/

Video Introduction of the Eurasian Red Squirrel of Hokkaido This video, titled "The Eurasian Red Squirrel Playing in a Field of Pink and Blue Flowers [2020]" (エゾリス駆ける、ブルーとピンクのお花畑は そのまんまメルヘンの世界だった 2020), was uploaded by "Shinji kawamura." The video shows footage of the Eurasian red squirrel eating nuts and running around cutely. What the Cute Eurasian Red Squirrels of Hokkaido Look Like Photo：A Eurasian Red Squirrel, Hokkaido The Eurasian red squirrel weighs approximately 300 to 410 grams and is approximately 22 to 27 cm in length, which is about the size of a kitten. A baby squirrel is about 6 to 8 centimeters long, making it very small and cute looking. The tail of the Eurasian red squirrel is covered with hair that is roughly 5 cm long, which makes the body of the squirrel itself appear larger. The hair itself is very fine, so you can see in the video how it fluffs up whenever the squirrel moves around. [Video] 4:04 - The cute tail of the Eurasian red squirrel Lifespan of the Eurasian Red Squirrel Photo：A Eurasian Red Squirrel, Hokkaido Natural predators of the Eurasian red squirrel include birds, such as crows, owls, and hawks, as well as cats and foxes. They live in nests in trees to protect themselves from their natural predators. The life span of the Eurasian red squirrel is said to be 2 to 4 years, but in some cases, they may live as long as 6 years. In Japan, they have to endure the harsh cold of Hokkaido, but they do not hibernate. Before winter is in full swing, they gather nuts and bury them in the ground to prepare for winter. Starting from around December, Hokkaido is covered with snow, so it's difficult for humans to tell where the squirrels have hidden their nuts. However, the Eurasian red squirrel can pinpoint the location of buried nuts and eat them. And while the winter coat of the Eurasian red squirrel is characterized by its fluffiness, it changes into a summer coat during the spring and summer months, giving them a slender appearance. Where to Spot the Eurasian Red Squirrel Photo：A wooden path at Maruyama Park, Sapporo The cute and cuddly Eurasian red squirrel lives in places where it's very cold, such as the northern part of Eurasia. In Japan, they can only be seen in Hokkaido. They inhabit the plains and subalpine forests of Hokkaido. It's difficult to go to a natural forest to see Eurasian red squirrels, even if you would like to see them in person after watching a video. We recommend Maruyama Park in Sapporo, Hokkaido. You may be lucky enough to see wild Eurasian red squirrels in Maruyama Park, a park surrounded by nature in Sapporo, Japan. In addition, an albino Eurasian red squirrel was spotted on the campus of Obihiro University of Agriculture and Veterinary Medicine and blew up on the internet for a while. Incidentally, the Birds and Wildlife Protection Law prohibits the breeding of Eurasian red squirrels. Therefore, you have to go to Hokkaido to see them in Japan. If you want to see these cute little creatures, consider making a trip to Hokkaido! Summary of the Eurasian Red Squirrel Japan offers beautiful natural scenery in each of its four seasons. In this article, we introduced the cute Eurasian red squirrels of Hokkaido. They look like something out of a fairy tale. The sight of them running around energetically in a field of flowers is quite relaxing. Hokkaido is the only place in Japan where you can see Eurasian red squirrels in the wild. In Maruyama Park in Sapporo, there is a possibility to see Eurasian red squirrels in their natural habitat. If you're planning a trip to Hokkaido, consider checking them out? [Video] 1:13 - Eurasian red squirrels eating nuts Until you actually get to see them in person, please enjoy the lovely footage introduced in this article.

This video, titled "Meet the Girls Aiming to Be Japanese Idols Part 1 [Japan in Motion 2019 #20]," was released by Japan in Motion. In the first half of the video, three girls - a Japanese girl, Russian girl, and an Italian girl - talk about Japanese idols at an idol store in Akihabara. The three girls also visit a prestigious school in Hiroshima Prefecture that has produced many popular Japanese idols. Actor's School Hiroshima has produced many members of world famous idol groups, such as members of Perfume, BABYMETAL, Morning Musume, AKB48, Nogizaka48, STU48, and =LOVE. The three even got to experience a lesson with their students!

This video, titled "An Eternal Longing ☆ The Princess Experience Is Really Popular!" (永遠の憧れ☆プリンセス お姫様体験が大人気), was released by "KyodoNews." This video is a news video released by Kyodo News that gives shows you princess experiences in Japan. The Disney Store, which sells Disney princess costumes, is the driving force behind the experience of becoming a princess, every girl's dream. The Snow Crystal Museum in Asahikawa, Hokkaido, is a popular place where you can feel like a princess, as it looks just like the castle from Disney's "Frozen." Lockhart Castle in Takayama Village, Gunma Prefecture, is a popular destination for couples and women, with more than 250 costumes available in the exotic mountain castle. These princess experiences have also increased tourism. It's been observed that Disney characters have become more popular due to their increased diversity.

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

This video, titled "[4K] Summer Comiket Cosplay 2017" (【4K】夏のコミケットコスプレ２０１７), was released by "Rambalac." Comiket 92, shown in the video, took place from Friday, August 11 to Sunday, August 13, 2017, at Tokyo Big Sight. Many people came to the massive event in the hot mid-summer heat. Many cosplayers gathered around the venue, and the popular cosplayers attracted crowds of people. There were also photo sessions held as well. In the video, cosplayers dressed as popular characters are introduced for around ~45 minutes. This video is packed with information on Japanese otaku culture!

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

Shibuya Gone Wild! Tokyo's Nightscape in a Masquerade of Colors and Costumes! Halloween has become one of October's main features in Japan, too, and in Tokyo, both Shibuya and Roppongi host a variety of Halloween events. TOKYObrah's video “HALLOWEEN IN TOKYO, JAPAN! Tokyo Halloween! Shibuya Party 4K（HALLOWEEN IN TOKYO, JAPAN! 東京ハロウィン! 渋谷パーティ 4K）” presents Shibuya’s Halloween celebrations from the eyes of a foreigner. Just watching the participants wearing their costumes is indeed a lot of fun! The Heart of Tokyo’s Halloween Is in Shibuya Photo：Halloween masquerade A crowd of dressed-up people piles up in front of the JR Shibuya train station, moving towards Shibuya Crossing. Even the Japanese, known for being shy, become open and friendly on Halloween, and people in the video often wave at the cameraman with a smile. Join Tokyo’s Halloween Parade! Source :YouTube screenshot When asked to pose for the video, many girls in their different costumes gave their best shot at it in spite of their shyness. The cameramen, too, who was dressed as Lionel Messi, managed to gather a crowd of people all dressed the same as him, with minimal effort. Wearing a costume makes it easier to open up with strangers, which is what makes Halloween so special. Other Foreigners Joined the Halloween Party, Too! Many foreigners gather in the city for Halloween, and some of them show up dressed as famous characters. The celebrations have been getting bigger and bigger every year, and this makes it easier for people from abroad to participate. Everybody chants with a smile “Happy Halloween!” and “Trick or Treat!” It’s Not Just a Halloween Costume Party! Source :YouTube screenshot Even among the more casual costumes there are some that really catch the eye, like the cute bunny girls or the TV characters from local comedy shows. The Jack Sparrow costume at 5:40 and 6:45 are really spectacular, and deserve a special mention. High quality costumes are one of the main attractions of Shibuya's Halloween, and often get featured in the news. Halloween’s Origins: The Harvest Festival The Jack-o'-lantern, Halloween’s omnipresent carved pumpkin, is a symbol everyone knows. Halloween was originally a religious celebration aimed at getting rid of the evil spirits during the harvest season, but as the years went by it shifted towards a more folkloristic event where kids dressed up in scary costumes and were rewarded with treats. In Japan, trick-or-treating was soon abandoned in favor of a costume party event for young people. Tokyo’s Halloween: Summary In Tokyo, lots of young people cosplay during the last weekend of October. As you can see from the video many people dressed as famous Japanese anime characters, while others chose more old-fashioned costumes, like witches and zombies. This is an event that anyone can enjoy, regardless of age or nationality. Even though the video conveys the excitement of Shibuya’s Halloween, it's even better to experience it in person. If you’re in Tokyo in October, make sure you don't miss it!

The Traditional Candy Sculpting Art of "Amezaiku Yoshihara" "Fujimaki Select Ginza Store" created this short documentary video in which an artisan of a Tokyo-based shop specializing in Amezaiku, "Amezaiku Yoshihara", demonstrates the traditional candy sculpting. The method for making Amezaiku is laid out in the short video. It's not subbed, but don't worry. The description given in this article will help you understand it, and we'll also explain its history as a popular street performance in Japan during the Edo period(1603-1868 A.D.). An artisan shop in Tokyo specializing in Amezaiku, "Amezaiku Yoshihara" draws even international attention. Not only the demonstrate sales, Yoshihara offers some enjoyable workshops designed to make us get familiar to the traditional art of candy sculpting. Amezaiku - From the Edo Period to the Present Photo：Amezaiku Amezaiku is mentioned in the old texts written during the Edo period. In the old days, Amezaiku artists were selling it on the streets or at festivals. This vestige is still seen today, demonstrated in the sale of Amezaiku at festivals or cultural events, which is commonplace in Japan. Mystical animals or flowers shaped by the artists' hands are particularly entertaining, especially among children. Yoshihara is committed not only to passing on the traditional art, but also to the tastes and qualities of the treats. How to Shape Candy Into a Maneki-neko (Beckoning Cat) Source :YouTube screenshot Amezaiku involves many steps but the whole process is done by hand. 1. The candy base is boiled until it becomes soft, then kneaded and pulled so as to have the proper appearance. (0:05-) 2. The candy ball is then formed into a ball and mounted on a stick (0:56-) Source :YouTube screenshot 3. Using their hands or other tools, the candy ball is then shaped into a cat. This sculpting step should be completed within 3 minutes before the candy cools and hardens again. (1:12-) 4. Heat is then applied using a burner to attach the tiny decorative heart to the cat. (2:06) Source :YouTube screenshot 5. The cat's face is painted with edible coloring. (2:43-) 6. The candy sculpted cat is completed. (3:53-) Information About Amezaiku Yoshihara "Amezaiku Yoshihara" opened in 2008 as the first shop in Japan dedicated to Amezaiku. The popular products such as rabbits, pandas, owls or shiba dogs are also available on their online shop. The price range of these miniature edible craftworks is from 700-1000 yen. How about getting some as a souvenir? they've got more than just ready-made candies as well. You can also pick from their catalogue and the candy maker will make it for you. It is also possible to hire them to demonstrate sales at festivals or events. Yoshihara offers candy sculpting workshops at the Yanaka branch. Participants are instructed to create 3 different Amezaiku crafts in an hour-long workshop. Summary of the Amezaiku Demonstration Video Source :YouTube screenshot In the video, an Amezaiku artist sculpts a Beckoning Cat with expert speed while giving a sales talk. Such conversations are also a part of the entertainment. Watch the video to learn the Japanese candy sculpting process ! ◆Amezaiku Yoshihara Sendagi Main Store◆ 【Address】 Tomoe Biru 1F, Sendagi 1-23-5 Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo (zip 113-0022) 【Access】3 minutes from Tokyo Metro Chiyoda Line Sendagi Station 【Hours】Mon, Wed -Fri 13:00 - 18:00 (the demonstrate sales till 17:00), Sat-Sun & Holidays 10:00 - 18:00 (the demonstrate sales till 17:00) 【Closures】Tuesdays (except statutory holidays that fall on Tuesday) 【Parking】 No dedicated parking lot (There are some paid parkings in the block) 【Telephone No】(+81) 03-6323-3319 【Official Website】Amezaiku Yoshihara https://ame-yoshihara.com/english/

九州の人気観光地・福岡県柳川市をご当地アイドルが紹介！ こちらの動画は「柳川フィルムコミッション」が公開した「【柳川市観光PRビデオ】SAGEMON GIRLS　さげもんガールズ」です。 福岡県はおいしい食べ物や人気観光がいっぱいの魅力ある日本のおすすめの観光地。 そんな福岡県でグルメや観光も楽しめるエリアを探している人はいませんか？ 今回は福岡県の柳川市を紹介したいと思います。 こちら記事では、福岡県の柳川市の人気スポットや、おすすめグルメなどを動画と共に紹介したいと思います。 福岡県柳川市のご当地アイドル「さげもんガールズ」の可愛いダンスも堪能ください 九州の人気観光地・福岡県柳川市とは 九州のおすすめ観光地のひとつ柳川市は、福岡県の南部、筑後地方の南西部に位置します。 筑後地方の主要都市のひとつで、さまざまな魅力のある都市です。 柳川の川下り体験や相撲、有明海でとれた柳川産のりやうなぎ料理など、観光やグルメで楽しめるスポットがたくさんあります。 福岡県柳川市は福岡の天神駅から西鉄電車で約50分で行くことができるので、福岡で観光する際にはぜひ立ち寄ってみてください。 九州の人気観光地・福岡県柳川市のおすすめスポット 人気観光地の福岡県の柳川市には、おすすめの観光スポットがたくさんあります。 まず、歴史が好きな人やパワースポットに行きたい人におすすめなのが三柱神社と日吉神社。 ともに由緒正しい神社で参拝すれば気が引き締まります。 長命寺や沖端水天宮も福岡県柳川市の有名な歴史スポットです。 柳川藩主立花邸御花も歴史を体感できる国指定名勝。 庭園が当時のままに残り、美しい景観を楽しめる名所です。 ほっと一息つきたい場合には、「からたち文人の足湯」がおすすめ。 足湯エリアには柳川ゆかりの文人たちの写真などが飾られており、歴史が好きな人も楽しめます。 ゆっくり足湯に浸かりながら、写真を眺めれば心癒される時間になるでしょう。 九州の人気観光地・福岡県柳川市のおすすめグルメ 日本の観光地である福岡の柳川市にはおすすめのグルメもあります。 うなぎは食べログで高評価のお店が多く、柳川市に訪れたときには必ず食べておきたい日本料理。 うなぎ料理の他にも、柳川産味噌や米せんべいなどが有名。 美味しいグルメを楽しんで最高の旅の思い出にしましょう。 九州の人気観光地・福岡県柳川市紹介まとめ こちらの動画は福岡県柳川市の人気ご当地アイドル「さげもんガールズ」のかわいい踊りと一緒に、柳川市のおすすめの観光スポットが紹介されています。 観光スポットとおいしいグルメがたのしめる福岡県の柳川市。 気になる方はぜひ観光に訪れてみてはいかがですか。

Kasuisai Hinamatsuri: Video Introduction This video, titled "Shizuoka Kasuisai Temple Doll's Festival, Japan Worship Trip | Recommended spots | Travel / vlog,"was uploaded by "Japan Travel Cinema." Kasuisai Hinamatsuri (Doll Festival) is held at Kasuisai Temple in Shizuoka Prefecture; a temple associated with Tokugawa Ieyasu. The 32-tiered display with approximately 1,200 hina dolls, is one of the largest in Japan, and is truly a sight to behold. In addition to ordinary hina dolls, rare hina ornaments, kasafuku umbrellas, sarubobo, etc. can be seen on display in the video. The video also introduces Daitosu, a unisex restroom said to be the most beautiful toilet in Japan. Be sure to check out the video to get a glimpse of one of the largest Hinamatsuri events in Japan at Kasuisai Temple. Kasuisai, a Temple Associated With Tokugawa Ieyasu Photo：Kasuisai Temple, Fukuroi, Shizuoka Kasuisai Temple is a Soto Zen temple located in Fukuroi, Shizuoka, in the Tokai region of Japan. The temple, famous for the Kasuisai Hinamatsuri, was founded by the Buddhist priest Jochu Tengin in 1401, in the early Muromachi period (1336-1573 AD). The 11th chief priest, Senrin Tozen, is said to have been associated with the Tokugawa family since he was responsible for Tokugawa Ieyasu's childhood education. The name of the temple is derived from the fact that Ieyasu, feeling indebted to him, invited the monk Tozen to the castle to renew their old friendship. When Ieyasu saw him dozing off during that visit, he was pleased that the monk was relieved and showed his affection, saying, "Monk, you must sleep," thus giving rise to the name of the temple as "Kasuisai" (可睡斎, lit. "Temple where one may sleep"). At Kasuisai Temple, memorial services are held for dolls and stuffed animals that have watched over children as the grew over the years, and some of the dolls are displayed at the Kasuisai Hinamatsuri event. Kasuisai Hinamatsuri 2023 Highlights! Kasuisai Hinamatsuri 2023 will be held from January 1 to March 31. It's generally held during the same period each year. The limited edition shuin stamps available during the festival are popular among collectors. From January 22 to March 12, visitors can enjoy special vegetarian meals prepared by one of the temple administrators/head chef of Kasuisai. If you're interested in trying Buddhist vegetarian cuisine using healthy spring ingredients, be sure to make a reservation in advance. Children who visit the temple will receive a doll talisman to pray for their healthy growth. It's a great way to commemorate your visit. It takes about four and a half hours to tour the entirety Kasuisai Temple. Please take your time and enjoy temple, which has plenty to see and do. Next, let's take a look at the various highlights of Kasuisai Hinamatsuri in detail. Zuiryukaku – 1,200 Dolls on Display at One of the Largest 32-Tiered Displays in Japan! Photo：Hina dolls, Fukuroi, Shizuoka During Kasuisai Hinamatsuri, there are more than 3,000 hina dolls on display throughout the temple. The most spectacular of them all are the hina dolls displayed in Zuiryukaku. The 32-tiered Hina-dan, one of the largest hina doll displays in Japan, with approximately 1,200 dolls on display, is nothing short of spectacular. It's sure to be a hit on Instagram! [Video] 2:25 - Zuiryukaku, a 32-Tiered Hinadan With Approximately 1,200 Hina Dolls The 3.5-meter-tall, 50-kilogram kasafuku is displayed on the opposite side of the hall. Kasafuku is one of the three major tsurushi-kazari (hanging ornaments) in Japan, made in and around Sakai, Yamagata. The 999 hanging ornaments, including small hammers, turtles, and other lucky ornaments, are so gorgeous that just looking at them brings good luck. [Video] 3:40 - Kasafuku Umbrellas In the video, you can also see Goten-style hina decorations. Goten-kazari is a dollhouse-like decoration with hina dolls representing the emperor and empress placed inside a palace, which is based on the Imperial Palace in Kyoto. [Video] 5:33 - Goten-style Hina Decorations The sarubobo decoration, which is said to bring blessings for fertility and easy childbirth, is another signature of Kasuisai Hinamatsuri. The 2,000 sarubobo decorations hung like hanging ornaments are also a special feature of Kasuisai Hinamatsuri. [Video] 5:56 - Sarubobo The Official Doll of Tokugawa Ieyasu, a Famous Japanese Warlord At this year's Kasuisai Hinamatsuri, the treasury will host an exhibit related to prince Tokugawa Ieyasu in conjunction with "Dou Suru Ieyasu," this year's taiga drama (historical drama series). Shikami dolls modeled after the portrai Tokugawa Ieyasu is said to have had painted after his defeat by Takeda Shingen in the Battle of Mikatahara, a Senrin Tozen and Ieyasu doll modeled after an anecdote with Senrin Tozen, from which the name Kasuisai was derived, and five national treasures, including Hamamatsu Castle and Sunpu Castle made from toothpicks, are also on display. It's a must-see event for those who love Japanese history and Tokugawa Ieyasu. Explore a Lovely Indoor Peony Garden Photo：The indoor peony garden at Kasuisai Temple Kasuisai is also famous as a temple of flowers, especially for its peony garden, which is at its best from April to May. During Kasuisai Hinamatsuri, visitors can enjoy the peony blossoms earlier than usual. The indoor peony garden is located at Zuiryukaku. The 70 pots of peonies, with approximately 20 different varieties, are sure to captivate your heart. The fusuma-e (sliding door paintings) in the Japanese-style room decorated with peonies are also worth checking out! The fusuma paintings were created by Reiki Yamaguchi, a Japanese painter who spent 40 years painting them. The atmospheric fusuma paintings by Yamaguchi, who painted the traditional themes of natural beauty in Japanese aesthetics, accentuate the beauty of the peony blossoms. [Video] 6:24 - The Indoor Peony Garden Daitosu, the Toilet of the Toilet God! Photo：Daitotsu, the toilet at Kasuisai Temple Kasuisai Temple also has what is claimed to be the best toilet in Japan! Called Daitosu, it's a unisex flush toilet that was completed in 1937. At the time of its completion, many people came to use it, as flush toilets were rare in Japan. The ceiling is decorated with a beautifully shaded wicker pattern, and modern lighting on the domed ceiling, creating a retro Japanese atmosphere. In the center is the powerful image of Ucchusma, known in Zen Buddhism as the Buddha of the toilet, who is believed to burn impure things. It's a once-in-a-lifetime masterpiece by Seiun Takamura, a well-known artist of wooden Buddhist sculptures. The beautifully polished Daitosu is also amazingly still in use as a toilet. [Video] 4:37- Daitosu [Video] 5:08 - Ucchusma Summary of Kasuisai Hinamatsuri Kasuisai Hinamatsuri is one of the largest hina doll festivals in Japan. The hinamatsuri event is held under the teaching "treasure the lives of things," after the doll memorial service has been completed. Travel agencies offer hinamatsuri tours for Kasuisai Hinamatsuri. There are also many hotels and other lodging facilities in the area surrounding Kasuisai. If you're considering Shizuoka Prefecture as a spring travel destination, be sure to stop by! If you have children with you, it's a great opportunity to wish them healthy growth and nurture their appreciation of life. We're sure that the beautiful hina dolls, given a new lease of life, will bring you joy. ◆Kasuisai Temple◆ 【Address】2915-1 Kuno, Fukuroi, Shizuoka 437-0061 【Telephone】0538-42-2121 【Hours】8:00 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. 【Admission Fee】¥500 【Access】 Train: Train: Get off at JR Fukuroi Station. Board the train bound for Enshu Morimachi (遠州森町) or Keta (気多) at platform No. 1 at the north exit, and get off at Kasuisai Iriguchi (可睡斎入口).