Japanese Traditional Crafts - An Introduction to "Wadaiko" "# 005 Wadaiko Tetsuro Sugiura: Door to Tomorrow by At Home" is an interview with the Wadaiko craftsman introduced in the Discovery Channel program "Tomorrow's Door." Tetsuro Sugiura, a wadaiko craftsman of "Asano Taiko" in Japan's Hokiriku region, Hakusan City, Ishikawa Prefecture, trained long and hard before becoming a full-fledged wadaiko craftsman. This time, let's take a closer look at Japanese traditional crafts, and the technique used for making Japanese drums, which takes several years to learn. About the Traditional Culture of Japanese Wadaiko Introduced in the Video Photo：Wadaiko Wadaiko is one of the Japan's historical musical instruments that is played at festivals that are held all over Japan, such as Kyoto and Fukuoka. It is also used at ceremonies at shrines and temples, as well as for Kabuki and Noh. Its origin dates way back, and the oldest Japanese taiko drum was excavated from the remains of the Jomon period (14000 BC- 400 BC). A Japanese drum (Wadaiko) is a percussion instrument that is made of wood and has a body covered with leather. There are various types of Japanese drums that are currently used, such as a long drum, tub drum, and an attached drum. How Wadaiko Are Made Source of photo :YouTube screenshot The production process of the traditional Japanese drum, Wadaiko, is introduced in detail from 2:09 in the video. The two main tasks to make the taiko, are the making of the body and the making of leather. A Japanese drum craftsman cuts down a zelkova tree, which is then used as a raw wood without any treatment. They then cut the body of the zelkova and roughly forms it into its final shape, which is then naturally dried in a cool and dark place for 3 to 5 years. The carving on the inside of the drum is beautifully hand-crafted to have a tortoiseshell or diamond-like pattern. You can see the inner carving process from 3:01 in the video. Source of photo :YouTube screenshot Next, as you can see from 3:18 in the video, a refined technique is essential for lacquer painting. In the process of making leather, from 3:25 in the video, the skill of the Japanese drum craftsman integral to creating the beautifully processed cowhide, which will cover the drum. After putting the leather over the drum the sound is checked, and if sufficient, tacks are attached to complete the work. You can see the finished product from 4:43 in the video. Each taiko drum takes several years to complete and many craftsmen are involved in the crafting process. From 4:56 in the second part of the video, you can see the craftsmanship of the Japanese drum artist Tetsuro Sugiura, who is a leather craftsman. An interview with Mr. Tetsuro Sugiura is introduced in detail where he talks about the process of leather making, which is the cornerstone of each drum's sound. Summary of Japan's Traditional Wadaiko Craftsmen Source of photo :YouTube screenshot The video shows the long and delicate process of making large Japanese taiko drums. No special qualifications are required for the production of wadaiko, but long and rigorous training is required to craft wadaiko that produce beautiful, dynamic sounds of art. This craft relies much on feel, and thus requires diligent and highly skilled Japanese drum craftsmen. 【Official Website】Asano Taiko https://www.asano.jp/en/

板前の華麗な包丁さばきをご覧になれる動画について こちらの動画は「寿司マスターToshi」が公開した「寿司職人によるマグロの仕込みから握りまで〜How To Make Tuna Sushi〜」です。 日本人に親しみが深い、寿司。 マグロやブリといった新鮮な魚介類や海鮮食材を材料として使用して作られる握り寿司は、和食の代表格です。 近年では海外でも人気が高まっており、現地のスーパーでも見かけることが多くなってきました。 そんな寿司は職人がマグロを捌く処理部分から仕込みをしていることをご存知でしょうか？ 今回は職人が仕込みから行う和食・海鮮料理の代表格、マグロの握り寿司について紹介いたします。 職人が１から仕込みを担当、マグロの寿司 寿司に使用されるマグロを始めとした寿司ネタ。 釣り上げられたマグロは解体され、板前さんのところに運ばれてきます。 そして部位ごとに捌くことに。 その手際は素晴らしいもので、動画でもご覧になれます。 熟練の職人技で磨き上げられた包丁捌きで大トロ、中トロ、赤身と捌くその姿はまさに職人。 ネタは部位ごとに切り分けられ、様々な料理へと使用されて行きます。 その手際の良さは和食・日本料理の魅力を再確認させてくれるほどです。 寿司以外にもたくさん！和食に欠かせないマグロ 寿司以外にもマグロを食材として調理された和食料理はたくさんあります。 代表的な握り寿司から、マグロや旬のネタの刺身を芸術作品のように見立てたお造り、マグロを保存が効くように加工し漬けたマグロ漬け丼など、どれも製法に工夫が見られるものばかり。 数え始めたらキリがありません。 日本料理にはマグロを始めとした、新鮮な魚介類や食材を使用した海鮮料理が多く存在しています。 海に囲まれた日本ならではの食文化で、和食と呼ぶに相応しいです。 寿司職人や日本料理のプロが仕込みから行う、マグロを使用した和食。 どの和食も日本を訪れた際に、必ず食べたい一品です。 板前の華麗な包丁さばき動画紹介まとめ 今回は和食の代表格、寿司をはじめとしたマグロ料理について紹介しました。 マグロの刺身やお造りなどの和食料理の数々は、日本料理の代表といっても過言ではありませんね。 板前さんによる職人技が光る仕込みの様子を見たいという方は、是非この動画をチェックしてみましょう！

日本の伝統工芸「房州うちわ」プロモーション動画について こちらの動画は「IKIDANE NIPPON」が公開した「Boshu Uchiwa: the making of a hand fan」で千葉県房総半島の館山市・南房総市を中心に伝わる房州うちわを紹介しています。 こちらの動画をご覧になれば日本のうちわ文化と、房州うちわが一つ一つ手作業で作られていることを知ることができます。 うちわは日本に古くから伝わる伝統工芸品であり、気軽に持ってかれるお土産です。 こちらの記事では日本が誇る伝統工芸「うちわ」文化の魅力を動画に沿って解説します！ 日本の文化うちわと房州うちわの歴史 うちわの起源は古く中国やエジプトの絵にも書かれ、2000年ほど前の弥生時代に日本へ伝わりました。 また、房州うちわの歴史は元々、江戸で作られていた江戸うちわが戦争により被災し、千葉の房総半島へ移ったのが始まりだとされています。 日本の伝統文化「房州うちわ」と日本のうちわ文化 房州うちわとは京うちわ、丸亀うちわと並び日本三大うちわとして多くの人に愛されています。 房州うちわの特徴は女竹を原料として使用し、丸柄に仕上げている点です。 それに比べ、丸亀うちわは男竹で挿柄を使用するのが特徴。 他にも日本の特徴的なうちわの種類として江戸うちわもあり、藍染めで貼り文字を使って作られています。 日本の伝統文化「房州うちわ」の特徴 房州うちわは房州うちわ振興協議会が中心となり現在でも盛んに生産され、1984年には千葉県指定伝統的工芸品に指定されました。 千葉県には現在も数多くの工房があり、うちわ職人が丁寧にうちわ骨から作っています。 代表的な工房は太田屋・宇山工房、房州堂です。 工房では手仕事でそれぞれの工房の技法で大きさも柄も少し違う作品となっています。 また、道の駅やお土産屋さんでも房州うちわは販売され、作られる工房によって作り方や柄も違います。 うちわは日本の文化が今に残る芸術品と言っても過言はないでしょう。 日本の文化！伝統工芸品「房州うちわ」のを作る21の工程 房州うちわには材料を用意してから21の工程があります。 最初に竹の切り出しから始まり、皮むき、磨き、水付け、割竹、もみ、穴あけ、編竹、柄詰め、弓削、下窓、窓作り、目拾い、穂刈り、焼き、貼り、断裁、へり付け、下塗り、上塗り、仕上げをして完成。 この一つ一つの工程を職人が丁寧に匠の技を屈指してつくりあげています。 日本の伝統工芸品「房州うちわ」の文化と魅力のまとめ 千葉県の房州うちわを紹介させていただきました。 こちらの動画では4分ほどで房州うちわの生産の工程をご覧になれます。 訪日観光の際には、伝統工芸品の房州うちわの作成を体験したり、購入されてみるのも良いでしょう。 それでは、日本の伝統工芸品「房州うちわ」の魅力をこの動画でご堪能ください！

江戸の文化の象徴としての江戸木目込人形を動画で存分に堪能！ こちらの動画は「伝統工芸 青山スクエア」が公開した「手技TEWAZA「江戸木目込人形」EDO KIMEKOMI NINGYO Kimekomi Dolls／伝統工芸 青山スクエア traditional crafts Aoyama Square」です。 日本独自の伝統工芸で、まさに江戸の文化の象徴ともいえるのが動画で紹介されている「江戸木目込人形」。 日本の職人ならではの文字通り「きめ細かい」丹念な作業で造り上げられる見事な人形です。 日本の、歴史ある芸術品の制作工程がこの動画で紹介されています。 「原型づくり→かま詰め→木地ごしらえ→筋彫り→木目込み→面相描き→仕上げ」という江戸木目込人形の作業手順動画は必見ですよ。 手造りの伝統的技法で職人の魂が込められた人形 江戸木目込人形とは、日本の江戸時代にその制作技法が確立された和服を着た木製の木目込手造り人形です。 和紙を筆頭に、日本の伝統工芸は日本にしかない技術が職人に代々受け継がれてきた伝統的技法があり、江戸で確立した木目込み人形もその代表格の文化財。 江戸木目込人形には、ひな人形・五月人形・親王飾り・招き猫などの種類があり、その小さな人形に日本伝統の文化の粋が凝縮されています。 全ての工程が熟練の職人による手仕事で、しかも特殊な技法によって作られるのが江戸木目込人形の特徴。 そして、その作り方そのものに、日本の伝統工芸と手造りの文化を大切にする職人の魂が込められているといってもよいでしょう。 江戸木目込人形の老舗としては、塚田工房・一秀・柿沼人形などの工房が有名で、塚田工房には施設内に江戸木目込人形の博物館が併設されており、人形の実物だけでなく、材料や原料の見学と共に制作を体験するができるのが嬉しいですね。 外国人も感激！日本伝統の美しい芸術品 江戸木目込人形の別称は賀茂人形または賀茂川人形。 起源は江戸時代初期の元文4年（1739年）に京都の上賀茂神社に奉納された人形といわれています。 京都から始まった人形造りの伝統文化が江戸に伝わり、今ではすっかり華やかな江戸の文化を象徴する人形として親しまれているのです。 全てが手造りの作品なので大量に生産することができず、それゆえに希少な日本文化を伝承した美術品として、あるいは日本にしかない美しい芸術品として、さらには匠の技を示す逸品として、近年外国人観光客からの人気も急激に高まっています。 ギフトにプレゼントに最適！小さな人形に込められた日本文化の紹介まとめ 日本の伝統工芸と日本独自の文化が詰まった可愛らしい小さな人形に込められた江戸木目込人形は、誰もが思わず笑顔になる伝統的工の芸美術品です。 誕生日のギフトに、記念日のプレゼントに、そして観光のお土産にとこれほど喜ばれる商品も少ないでしょう。 動画をご覧になり、江戸木目込人形の魅力にじっくりと触れてください。

「大谷焼」紹介動画 こちらの動画は「伝統工芸 青山スクエア」が公開した「手技TEWAZA「大谷焼」Otani Pottery／伝統工芸 青山スクエア Japan traditional crafts Aoyama Square」だ。 伝統工芸である大谷焼は徳島県鳴門市で生産されている陶器であり、歴史的文化の深い焼き物として多くの日本人に親しまれている。 大谷焼の起源は1780年にまで遡り、豊後の国（現在の大分県）で作られた物が始まりとされている。 伝統工芸である大谷焼の材料は鉄分の多い堆積粘土だが、もともとは赤土で作られていた。 大谷焼とは 大谷焼の特徴は、その大きさである。 伝統工芸である大谷焼は、酒器・かめ壺・植木鉢などの大きな陶器が有名だ。 この大きな大谷焼を作り方は「寝ろくろ」と呼ばれる独特の文化的製法で作られる。 「寝ろくろ」は、巨大な陶器を制作するために考案された文化的製法であり、陶器を制作する職人に加え、ろくろを回す職人の2人で行われる。 ろくろを回す職人は、横に寝て足でろくろを動かすことから「寝ろくろ」と言われる。 現在では陶器を作るろくろは、機械で回すことが多い。 しかし文化的製法で作られる大谷焼は、人間のリズムでろくろを回すことにこだわっている。人間の作るリズムは機械では再現できるものではなく、職人たちの匠の技があってこそだ。 歴史的文化を大切にする大谷焼は、職人の手技によって作られ、機械は使っていない。 ろくろはもちろんのことだが、こて・亀板（きばん）・柄杓（ひしゃく）など昔ながらの文化的道具を現在でも使っており、伝統文化を大切にしている。 伝統工芸である大谷焼は、阿波地方の伝統工芸「藍染」と深い関係がある。「藍染」は藍を原材料にし、衣類等を染める技法だ。 「藍染」では染料を保存する大きな陶器が必要なため、伝統的にこれに大谷焼が使われてきた。 「藍染」は非常に手間がかかるものの、「藍染」特有の柔らかい緑がかった青色は、現在でも多くの方に愛されている。 「藍染」で使われる大谷焼は「藍甕（あいがめ）」という名称で使われている。 徳島県鳴門市では毎年11月の第2土曜・日曜に「大谷焼窯まつり」が開催されている。 大谷焼陶業協会が主催するこの祭りでは、様々な大谷焼を販売している。 「大谷焼」紹介まとめ 伝統工芸である大谷焼は、大きな陶器として有名な焼き物であり、一般的には美術品として親しまれている。 しかし現在では、日用品などの小さな陶器も作られている。 「大谷焼窯まつり」では、皿・徳利・茶器などの大谷焼が市販の2～3割引で販売されており、祭りの目玉になっている。 また、大谷焼の文化的製法を体験できるイベントや大谷焼名陶展などもあるので、日本の伝統工芸に直に触れたいという方にはおすすめの祭りだ。

大阪の「佐竹ガラス」紹介動画について こちらの動画は「ニッポン手仕事図鑑」が公開した「ニッポン手仕事図鑑 × 佐竹ガラス」です。 日本には数多くの伝統工芸が存在します。 作品1つ1つに職人が長年培ってきた技術や苦労が詰まっています。 日本観光をする際は芸術品や伝統文化などに触れてみるのも楽しみ方の1つです。 今回は大阪府和泉市で日本の伝統工芸を守り続けている佐竹ガラスについて紹介します。 大阪の「佐竹ガラス」紹介動画の内容 「ニッポン手仕事図鑑 × 佐竹ガラス」は大阪府和泉市にある佐竹ガラスの佐竹保彦氏へのインタビュー動画。 大阪府和泉市は人造真珠が作られていたことでも有名で、佐竹ガラスも人造真珠の製造に関わっていたことが佐竹保彦氏の口から語られます。 佐竹ガラスの職人が1本の棒を使ってガラスワークを行うシーンは動画の見どころの1つ。 2001年4月に主屋などが登録有形文化財に登録されました。 魅力的なガラス工芸の数々 佐竹ガラスは多くの種類の伝統工芸品を世に送り出しています。 色鮮やかなガラスロッドを筆頭に大阪府和泉市信太山のガラス職人が考案したホタル玉やとんぼ玉、ガラスビーズといったものが挙げられます。 大阪の「佐竹ガラス」紹介まとめ 何十年という時代の中で数多くのガラスロッドやアクセサリーパーツなどを作っている佐竹ガラス。 皆さんが思っている以上に日本の伝統工芸や美術品の世界は奥が深いです。 これを機に日本伝統の文化や歴史などを勉強してはいかがでしょうか？

日本が誇る刀鍛冶の凄さを紹介した動画について こちらの動画は「ANA Global Channel」が公開した「Japanese swordsmith／Interview - IS JAPAN COOL? CRAFTSMANSHIP（刀鍛冶）」です。 日本には、昔から様々な伝統技術が存在します。 ものによっては数千年のノウハウが蓄積されており、今日まで受け継がれています。 日本を観光する際、日本で培われた伝統技術や職人技をその目で確かめてみるのも楽しみ方の一つ。 今回は日本の刀鍛冶に関する動画を紹介します。 刀鍛冶に関する細かな知識についても触れていくので、日本の伝統技術に興味のある方は一度参考にしてください。 日本の伝統技術の一つ「刀鍛冶」って一体何？ 刀鍛冶とは、日本刀を作る職人のこと。 刀鍛冶になるためには、刀匠資格を持つ刀鍛冶の下で5年以上修業してから文化庁主催の美術刀剣刀匠技術保存研修会を修了しないといけません。 一人前の職人として活躍するには、何年もの時間が必要ということです。 有名な刀鍛冶に正宗や村正、虎徹が挙げられます。 ゲームや漫画等で一度はその名を目にしたという方もいるのではないでしょうか？ 1本1本の名刀には長い歴史があるので、興味のある方は気になる名刀や刀工について調べてみると良いかもしれません。 ちなみに日本の刀鍛冶が作る包丁は海外の方から日本刀のような切れ味と評価されており、高い技術を持った刀鍛冶職人が日本にいることが分かります。 日本で刀鍛冶による職人技を見る 日本の伝統技術をこの目で見たい方も多いと思います。 どこに行けば伝統的な職人技を見られるかを知っておかないといけません。 そのためには、日本の刀鍛冶の工房がどこにあるかを押さえておくことが必要です。 京都府の亀岡市に伝統的な刀鍛冶の技術を学べる工房があります。 将大鍛刀場はJR亀岡駅からタクシーで約20分の所にあります。 日本刀の文化を学んだり、和式ナイフや刀剣を作る体験ができます。 伝統的な職人技を体験したいといった方にうってつけのスポットです。 日本の伝統技術の一つ「刀鍛冶」紹介まとめ 日本には数多くの伝統文化や職人技が存在します。 今回紹介した動画で刀鍛冶の世界を知るきっかけになったのではないでしょうか。 日本の伝統文化や職人技は皆さんが思っている以上に奥深いのです。

京都が誇る伝統工芸の1つ西陣織紹介動画について こちらの動画は「伝統工芸 青山スクエア」が公開した「手技TEWAZA「西陣織」Nishijin ori weaving／伝統工芸 青山スクエア Japan traditional crafts Aoyama Square」です。 動画では京都市の西陣地区に古くから伝わる手技の文化を守る伝統工芸西陣織、その匠の技を駆使した製作工程を丁寧に紹介します。 宮廷文化の香りを今に伝える西陣織の、卓越した職人の手技・手仕事をご覧ください。 京都が誇る伝統工芸の1つ西陣織とは 京都市は西陣織の織物生産で有名で、まずは糸を染めるところから始まる先染め織物の伝統工芸です。 専門の職人が色見本と見比べながら、染料を微妙な色合いに調合し、糸の束を染めて行きます。 京都市には日本画の伝統文化があり、画家の方も大勢住んでおり、その方たちが西陣織や友禅染の意匠画を描かれることも多いのです。 その原画をもとに帯や着物を織るのですが、その際に活躍するのが「爪掻本綴織」の技法です。 京都が誇る伝統工芸の1つ西陣織の匠の技「爪掻本綴織」 「爪掻本綴織」 これこそ西陣織の匠の技の頂点とも言うべきもので、職人が爪にノコギリの歯のような刻みを入れ、糸を1本1本掻き寄せながら織り上げます。 どんな細かな模様でも織り出せる伝統工芸ですが、大変手間と時間、そして熟練の技法が必要とされます。 織り上がった製品は美術品・工芸品と呼べる素晴らしさです。 その職人たちの丁寧な手仕事と、織り上がった「爪掻本綴織」の芸術品を、この動画からご覧いただけます。 普段あまり目にする事のない西陣織が織り上がって行く工程と、帯や着物などの出来上がった製品を丁寧に紹介しており、伝統工芸に携わる職人たちの、熟練の手仕事をぜひご覧ください。 京都が誇る伝統工芸の1つ西陣織紹介まとめ 京都市上京区にある西陣織会館では、西陣織工業組合が主催して、西陣織の体験教室が開かれています。 手織体験ができ、マフラーや帽子・巾着袋などの小物も作れます。 もちろん製品の販売も行っており、京都観光のお土産に、またお友達へのプレゼントには、西陣織のネクタイ・財布・ストラップなど各種小物も揃っています。 着物や帯の仕立ても出来、熟練の職人による「爪掻本綴織」と呼ばれる技法も見学できます。 昔から帯は西陣織と言われ、西陣織のネクタイはその締め心地の良さに一度手にしたら手放せない逸品です。

This video, titled "#103 Tsukamaki-Shi, Kentaro Kubo｜Door to Tomorrow by At Home" (#103 柄巻師 久保 謙太郎　|　明日への扉 by アットホーム), was released by "Door to Tomorrow by At Home" (明日への扉 by アットホーム). In the world of Japanese swords, there are swordsmiths and scabbard makers who make swords and scabbards, but the traditional craftsmen who make the hilt, are called "tsukamaki-shi". Many people are fascinated by the visual beauty of Japanese swords, and the tukamaki-shi is the leading figure in the production of the sword's visual beauty. The handmade sword hilt is covered with stingray skin called shagreen and then wrapped with string or other material to make it easier to grip. Some of the best sword handles from the Edo period are called masterpieces, and Kentaro Kubo, a master tsukamaki-shi, works hard every day to create masterpieces that come close to those works.

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

How to Make Crepes, One of the Most Popular Desserts in Harajuku This video shows crepes being made at a crepe shop. Crepes are a popular sweet in Japan, especially among young people. You can often see them at festival stalls, and you can also find them in Harajuku and other areas, but their variations vary from shop to shop, for example, some stores are particular about using fresh cream and have large toppings. Check out the video to see how to make crepes from start to finish!

Kirikane - A Traditional Japanese Decorative Technique This video, titled "Japanese Craftsmanship: Japanese Crafts "Kirikane" (Japanese Craftsmanship：日本の匠「截金」), was produced by "Japanese Craftsmanship." It introduces the culture of Kirikane, a traditional Japanese craft. Kirikane is a decorative technique that involves cutting thinly stretched gold or silver foil into small pieces and creating patterns while pasting them to an object. Since ancient times, kirikane has been essential for decorating Buddhist statues and paintings as well as for decorating spirit tablets. Kirikane is an indispensable traditional Japanese technique in the world of Buddhist art. The History of Kirikane, a Traditional Japanese Craft Source :YouTube screenshot It's estimated that kirikane was already being used for the decoration of tableware, Buddhist statues, and decorative boxes in Asian countries in the pre-era (BC). In Japan, too, kirikane came to be used for carving Buddhist statues and making Buddhist paintings from around the Nara Period (710-794) onward. It's only in Japan, however, that kirikane culture has been inherited for traditional crafts despite thousands of years of history. To date, three people, Baitei Saita, Daizo Nishide, and Sayoko Eri, have been designated as Important Intangible Cultural Properties (Living National Treasures) in the art of kirikane. These three kirikane craftsmen were recognized for their mastery of advanced kirikane techniques and their efforts to spread the culture of kirikane. The Traditional Japanese Craft, Kirikane - How It's Made Source :YouTube screenshot Kirikane artisans first create patterns with motifs of nature, plants, and animals, which are then repeated geometrically. They then bake four sheets of foil as thin as 1/10,000th of a millimeter, burn them together, cut them carefully, and attach them according to the prepared pattern. The cutting and attaching can be seen at 0:46 in the video. On top of gold and silver foil, platinum foil is sometimes used for kirikane as well. The skill of master artisans is indispensable in creating beautiful kirikane works of art. Experience Traditional Kirikane Source :YouTube screenshot If you'd like to experience the traditional culture of kirikane, we recommend visiting a shop that sells traditional crafts or checking out a kirikane exhibit. There are many different types of kirikane works of art, such as decorative boxes and tools. Many pieces made using traditional Japanese crafts are expensive, but some of can be found for surprisingly reasonable prices, so be sure to check them out if you're looking for gifts or souvenirs. We recommend attending a class where you can experience traditional Japanese kirikane and learn about the history and techniques of the craft. Summary of Kirikane, a Traditional Japanese Craft Source :YouTube screenshot Kirikane is indispensable to Japanese Buddhist art culture and traditional crafts as a whole. You can see various kirikane works at 1:55 in the video. The appeal of kirikane lies in its elegant beauty. Kirikane works are also available for purchase, so if you're interested in these high-quality items, be sure to check them out.

Beautiful 3D Paper Cutting Art! Check out the video "The world of beautiful 3D paper cutting #1" (美しい立体切り絵の世界 #1). Most people would be surprised by the beautify of his works. These 3D paper cutting works are created by the paper cutting artist, Naofumi Hama. 3D paper cutting works offer something different to the plain world of traditional paper artistry. What kind of skills are necessary? Let’s take a look at the secrets of 3D paper cutting. More About 3D Paper Cutting Source :YouTube screenshot 3D paper cutting works are created by folding plain paper cutting works. Extra caution is necessary to assemble minute pieces due to their extreme fragility. In the video clips, you can see various 3D paper cutting works such as roses, pansies, ducks, and ironware. Also other beautiful and delicate art works such as gerbera, Dutch hats, origami cranes, chrysanthemum, and butterflies appear in the video. Be sure to take a look! How to Create 3D Paper Cutting Works Source :YouTube screenshot As you can see from this video clip, it may be difficult for beginners to learn this style of paper cutting. It's recommended to try simple cuts using Origami and a cutter when first starting out. It's okay if you stack the cutout patterns and then carefully cut them with a cutter as well. We recommend purchasing a paper cutting kit in which designs of flowers or animals are included for practice. If you're interested in 3D paper cutting, Naofumi Hama has also written a book on 3D paper cutting (only in Japanese). Summary of 3D Paper Cutting Source :YouTube screenshot There are other famous 3D paper cutting artists besides Naofumi Hama such as SouMa, Ayano Tomoda or Miki Kajita. Please check out the beautiful 3D paper cutting works created by these artists and enjoy the different styles that each of them has to offer. All 3D paper cutting works that appear in this video clip are breathtaking. Be sure to watch the video one again to enjoy its unique world view. 【Official Website】Naofumi Hama 3D Kirie (Paper Cutting) https://naofumihama.com/

Traditionally Crafted Sake Cups This is a video created by "Okeya Kondo Official桶屋近藤【公式】," that introduces craftsmen at Okeya Kondo making Yoshino cedar sake cups; a traditional craft in Kyoto. Okeya Kondo in Kyoto Shino, introduced in this video, is a studio that makes traditional Japanese crafts such as Kyo-Oke and Kyo Sashimono. Traditional crafts made with high quality domestically produced materials such as Yoshino cedar, are works of art. The Yoshino cedar teacups, which are made with the skills of artisans, are sure to make your favorite drinks even tastier. The 7-minute video shows the process of craftsmen making Yoshino cedar cups. Keep your eyes on the artisan's dexterous hands. His amazing skills will blow you away. This footage isn't something you can see every day, so we hope you enjoy it! Japan's Long Sake Culture Photo：Sake In Japan, there is a traditional culture of drinking delicious sake, made from pure rice as a raw material, since the old days. Among the various types of sake, unfiltered Junmaigenshu sake, which is characterized by its rich taste, is particularly popular. Sake is provided in a special container called a "Tokuri," and it is common to drink it using cups and cup-shaped dishes called "yokocho." In some cases, sake is put into a barrel-shaped sake jar or a portable sake barrel. Traditional craftsmen in Japan have a long history of making beautiful crafts, such as barrels and sake cups, using their advanced crafting skills. Okeya Kondo's Traditional Sake Cups Source :YouTube screenshot The 6.46 cm thick Yoshino cedar teacups are produced using beautiful wood grain with the finest texture, and is shaped by the masterful handiwork of Kyoto's craftsmen. The beauty and feel of this product is second to none. Yoshino cedar, which is used as a material for traditional crafts such as Okeya Kondo's Yoshino cedar sake cups, are collected around Yoshino-cho, Nara Prefecture, which is famous for cherry blossom viewing. Yoshino cedar cups made using the finest ingredients makes sake more fragrant and tasteful. How to Make Traditional Yoshino Cedar Cups Source :YouTube screenshot At Okeya Kondo, a workshop for making kettles, sake cups are made by combining several pieces of wood like a large tub and fastening them with a metal hoop. First of all, Yoshino cedar, the raw material used to make these, is cut out, sized appropriately using special tools, and neatly arranged with a plane (a special woodworking tool). You can see this from 0:03 in the video. Next, as you can see from 2:27, they make a wooden frame by arranging the cut pieces of wood in round molds. When the shape is completed, they remove the mold and adjust the shape with a saw or plane. You can see this at 3:41 in the video. From 4:31 in the video, you will start making the bottom part of the Yoshino cedar cup. Once the bottom is in place, the ornaments are installed and any finishing touches are added. The final process is branding the bottom with "Okeya Kondo." This can be seen at 6:06 in the video. At the Okeya Kondo, the owner, Taiichi Kondo, creates all of his pieces by himself. Although it is not possible to mass produce them, the Yoshino cedar sake cup is a high quality item that can be used for a long time, as each cup is made by hand with the utmost care. These products can be purchased at Kyoto antenna shop Marutakei in Aichi, or through online retailers such as Rakuten, Amazon, and more. It might be a small cup, but they're gonna run you at least 10,000 yen (~$100 USD). And while that might be a bit pricey, the quality of these cups is second to none, and we're sure you won't regret your purchase. Summary of Okeya Kondo's Yoshino Cedar Cups Okeya Kondo in Kyoto Shino, introduced in the video, is a studio that continues to make beautiful traditional crafts with a high standard of quality. Please watch this video to enjoy Taiichi Kondo's amazing craftsmanship. The high quality Yoshino cedar cups made by Japanese artisans using traditional techniques, will make your exquisite sake even tastier.

Introducing the Traditional Japanese Craft, Shosaku Fishing Rods! This video, "Nippon Handiwork Encyclopedia x Shosaku Rod （ニッポン手仕事図鑑 × 竿昭作（山野正幸））", is a video that introduces the "Kawaguchi's Traditional Japanese Fishing Rods" (川口和竿 竿昭作), a shop that makes traditional Japanese fishing rods. The company shown in the video is a workshop in Kawaguchi City, Saitama Prefecture, where traditional Japanese rods are made using traditional techniques. Shosaku's fishing rods are works of art, with each one made from carefully selected raw materials. Their rods are of very high quality and are often featured in the media. If you're an avid fisherman, we recommend trying out one of these fishing rods! Sao Shosaku Fishing Rods Source :YouTube screenshot The origin of Kawaguchi's bamboo rods is said to be the production of bamboo fishing rods using materials such as high quality Hotei Bamboo and Mambo that grow naturally in the Shiba River basin. Masayuki Yamano, the traditional Japanese fishing rod craftsman introduced in the video, is the second-generation owner of Yamano Fishing Rods, a company that continues to produce the finest fishing rods by passing on the traditional skills of its craftsmen. Made of supple, delicate bamboo, these high-end Japanese rods are stronger than their appearance suggests. Also, as the craftsman Masayuki Yamano tells us at 2:06 in the video, Japanese fishing rods are very flexible and strong and have a good feel to them, making them quite popular. Source :YouTube screenshot As you can see from the video 2:48, there were 200 craftsmen of Japanese fishing rods in the early Showa period (around 1930 AD), but now there are only four, and Masayuki Yamano is one of them. You can also see the production process of these precious Japanese rods in the video. They're made using a large number of specialized tools. Try Fishing at the Lakes and Rivers of Japan, With a Traditional Japanese Fishing Rod! Source :YouTube screenshot Many people are interested in fishing at Japanese rivers and come from overseas to do so. This is explained at 4:49 in the video. If you're unfamiliar with fishing, we recommend that you try out different types of fishing for things like small carp and sardines. In particular, the Tanago and Kofiro rod's 8-pieces with 6 inch grips, are about 1 meter in length, and they are easy to use thanks to the supple bamboo they are made of. If you would like to use a higher-grade fishing rod, try the Yamano fishing tackle shop that sells high-quality fishing rods made by Shosaku. Shosaku's rods are also sold at online retailers such as Amazon, and there are new products at great prices, so you can easily purchase a high-quality rod. Summary of Sao Shosaku's Fishing Rods Source :YouTube screenshot The video introduces the craftsman's commitment to making traditionally crafted fishing rods using traditional techniques. The easy-to-use fishing rods made by Saoshosaku are recommended for those who are looking for a higher quality fishing rod. At 0:20 in the video, the craftsman says, "Good things will never go away." We're sure these traditional Japanese fishing rods will be passed down for years to come. If you like fishing, definitely check out one of these fishing rods. You're sure to have a great time. 【Official Website】Kazuaki Kawaguchi Sao Shosaku https://saosyosaku.com/

The World of Japanese Paper Is Deeper Than You Think This video, titled "Making the Thinnest Sheet of Paper in the World," was released by "Great Big Story." Introducing the characteristics, history, and production process of Tengu Joshi paper, a traditional craft of Kochi prefecture. English subtitles is also included for English-speakers. Japanese paper is a traditional culture of Japan. The process of making a single sheet of paper is filled with various considerations, from the selection of raw materials to the manufacturing process. Tengu Joshi paper made in Kochi prefecture is one of many Japanese papers. We hope that you'll take this video and article as an opportunity to learn about Japanese culture. A Closer Look at Japanese Paper Source :YouTube screenshot As you can see at 0:45 in the video, many people are involved in the making of Tengu Joshi paper. In this video, Mr. Hiroyoshi Chinzai, the president of Hidaka Washi Yugen Co., Ltd, explains about Tengu Joshi. In the video, he says he has a sense of responsibility for manufacturing and is challenging things that no one has before. What is Tengu Joshi Paper? Source :YouTube screenshot Tengu Joshi paper is a special Japanese paper made by Hidaka Washi Co., Ltd. in Kochi Prefecture. The diameter of the raw material, mulberry fiber, is 0.002 mm. It is the thinnest Japanese paper in the world. Tengu Joshi paper weighs 1.6 grams per square meter. A sheet of this amazing paper, at about half the size of a tatami mat, is lighter than two one-yen coins. The Roots of Tengu Joshi Paper Source :YouTube screenshot The knowledge required for the production of Tengu Joshi paper has been passed down from generation to generation, and continues to this day. It is said that the roots of Tengu Joshi paper is not based in Tosa, but in "Usumino" produced in Mino (present-day Gifu prefecture) around the 17th century. Tengu Joshi paper was created in the middle of the Meiji era (1868-1912). At that time, Kochi Prefecture had the production capacity to export wrapping paper, coffee filter paper, typewriter paper to Europe and the United States. In response to the need for rolled products, Hidaka Washi Co., Ltd. began to focus on mechanization and OEM production. The Process of Making Tengu Joshi Paper Source :YouTube screenshot First, "kozo," a type of hybrid mulberry, is purchased from farmers. The mulberry is then boiled to break it into fine fibers. The crushed mulberry is then mixed with water and kneaded to make a sheet. The resulting paper, made up of long fibers is highly transparent, strong, and supple. What is Tengu Joshi Paper Used For? Photo：Tokyo National Museum You might be wondering where Tengu Joshi paper is used. As it turns out, Tengu Joshi paper is used in various places. The National Archives of Japan, the Tokyo National Museum, and the British Museum are just a few examples. The paper is used to repair and protect deteriorated exhibits. The uses of Tengu Joshi Paper are expanding not only in Japan, but also overseas in places such as the United Kingdom. One could say that the paper is a technology recognized around the world. According to Mr. Chinzai Hiroshi, inquiries come from all over the world asking for Japanese paper that to restore exhibits, etc. In order to meet these needs, Tengu Joshi paper has been filled with innovations, such as using only natural fibers and dyeing the paper in colors suited to the object to be restored, during the raw material stage. Tengu Joshi Paper and Other Information Hidaka Washi Co., Ltd. doesn't just produce Tengujo paper either. They also provide thorough aftercare after delivery. One of the reasons why the world trusts them is that they carefully explain how to use their products. Tengu Joshi paper is also sold online, so if you're interested in getting some, considering checking it out. Tengu Joshi Paper Introduction Summary Source :YouTube screenshot Hidaka Washi Co., Ltd., founded in 1949, thoroughly selects the raw materials when making Tengu Joshi Paper. The completed Tengu Joshi paper is useful for national libraries and museums. In fact, you've probably seen it before and just didn't know. As you can see in the video, the world of Japanese paper is deeper than you'd guess. It will be interesting to see what kind of activities Hidaka Washi Co., Ltd., a company that specializes in the production of Japanese paper, will do in the future. 【Official Website】Hidaka Washi Co., Ltd. https://www.hidakawashi.com/

Sakai, Osaka - A City Known for Its Traditional Japanese Cutlery This video, titled "手技TEWAZA「堺打刃物」Japan Sakai Forged Knife／伝統工芸 青山スクエア Japan traditional crafts Aoyama Square" introduces Osaka's Sakai cutlery. The video was released by Japan Traditional Crafts Aoyama Square. Sakai knives are produced in Sakai, Osaka. Blacksmiths in Sakai forge beautiful knives that are truly works of art. The city of Sakai has developed together with the traditional culture of knife-making. The History and Culture of Sakai Cutlery, a Traditional Japanese Craft Source :YouTube screenshot The history of Sakai cutlery dates back to the 16th century. Tobacco was introduced from Portugal around this time, and tobacco knives for chopping tobacco leaves began to be made in Sakai, Osaka. In the Edo Period (1603-1867), the shogunate granted the city a seal of quality certification and allowed the city to sell these knives exclusively, making Sakai famous as a major producer of cutlery. Even today, there are many factories in Sakai that manufacture a wide variety of knives, including deba bocho knives. How Traditional Sakai Knives Are Made Source :YouTube screenshot The manufacturing process of Sakai knives is roughly divided into three parts: forging, sharpening, and patterning, each of which is performed by a different craftsman. After casting the raw metal, blacksmiths use annealing, quenching, and tempering techniques to increase the hardness and sharpness of the blade. The techniques used for Sakai cutlery are used to make deba bocho (fish cutting knives), chef's knives, and even scissors and other bladed tools. In this video, you can see the welding at 0:33, rough grinding at 1:54, and sharpening from 2:22. The techniques used in Sakai cutlery are used not only for making deba bocho and chef's knives, but also for making scissors. Purchasing High-Quality Sakai Cutlery Source :YouTube screenshot If you're looking to purchase high-quality Sakai cutlery, opt for a prestigious brand. Today, there are more than 20 traditional artisans in the world of Sakai cutlery who continue to make high quality knives. Recommended brands include Sakai Ichiji, Kamoshita and Naojiro. Knives forged by master artisans are different from the ones you'll find in a department store. You can buy Sakai cutlery in stores as well as online, so choose one that fits your purposes and price range. Be sure to utilize the Sakai Cutlery Material Laboratory (堺刃物素材研究所), which sells and refinishes Sakai cutlery. You can see a completed Sakai knife at 3:10 in the video. Summary of Sakai Cutlery Source :YouTube screenshot As shown in the video, Sakai Cutlery is a traditional craft produced by the craftsmen of Sakai, Osaka. The knife industry in Osaka is supported by the skilled craftsmanship of blacksmiths. Be sure to purchase a high-quality Sakai knife to experience the epitome of sharpness.

This video, titled "[Learning Sunday] Robots by Kawasaki Heavy Industries｜July 30, 2017 Broadcast" (【モノ知りサンデー】2017年7月30日放送「ロボット」川崎重工業), was released by "Sun Television" (サンテレビ). It introduces the Kawasaki Museum, a corporate museum of Kawasaki Heavy Industries in Kobe, Hyogo Prefecture, and the robots inside the manufacturing plant. The museum displays motorcycles, bullet trains, and manufacturing robots. High-tech robots are used by equipment manufacturers both in Japan and abroad, including in medical and nursing care settings. The manufacturing process of robots is divided into various processes, with detailed work being done by skilled employees and robots making robots. Watch the video to see how the robots are made!

Takoyaki, Sweets, High-Speed Rice Cake Making... Check Out the Amazing Artisanship in the Video! This video is a collection of artisanship from a variety of restaurants. Watching such skilled chefs creating amazing cuisine is something you never get tired of. You can watch the different shops using the timestamps below. Tsukiji - Gindaco: 0:08 Kyoto - Kyogoku Kaneyo: 3:50 Nara - Nakatanidou: 6:52 Osaka - Rikuro: 8:34 Kyoto - Tsurumusha: 11:22 Kyoto - Caffè Latte: 14:28 Kyoto - Gomaya Crepe-Do17:45 Unfortunately, Gomaya Crepe-do closed in 2019, but if you're in the Kansai region, be sure to stop by their shop there as well. 【Official Homepage】Tsukiji Gindaco Official Site https://www.gindaco.com/ 【Official Homepage】The Finest Eel in Japan, Kyogoku Kaneyo https://www.kyogokukaneyo.co.jp/ 【Official Homepage】Nakatanidou http://www.nakatanidou.jp/english/ 【Official Homepage】Osaka Confectioneries "Freshly Baked Cheesecakes," Rikuro Ojisan http://www.rikuro.co.jp/en/ 【Official Homepage】Ramen Tsurumusha https://www.tsurumusya.com/ 【Official Homepage】Caffè Latte http://caffe-llatte.com/index_e.php

This video, titled Machi Blockbuilder Super Stone Dealer 2" (間知ブロック積み工スーパー石屋2), was released by "koronero2." You can see stacked blocks when you walk along roads and rivers. They've been used since the early 1950's as a substitute for natural stone blocks. Compared to other construction methods, it is cheaper and JIS-compliant, and it is also used for disaster recovery work. Machi-Blocks are smooth and shaped like a sake cup, which makes them easy to use in curved areas. There are several ways of stacking machi-blocks, but stacking them to create valley formations is the most common. One of the upsides of machi-blocks is that they can be stacked in different ways.

An Introduction to Miyagi’s Traditional "Kokeshi" Dolls This video is called ‘Tohoku STANDARD 07 Kokeshi dolls of Sendai City, Miyagi Prefecture (東北STANDARD 07 宮城県 仙台こけし)’ made by Tohoku Standard (東北STANDARD), and it shows you Miyagi Prefecture's Traditional Kokeshi doll. Miyagi's traditional Kokeshi doll has a long history. Its origins trace back to the mid-Edo Period (1603～1868). It was originally a souvenir from onsen hot spring towns in Japan's Tohoku Region. There are five traditional Kokeshi dolls in Miyagi Prefecture: Naruko Kokeshi dolls, Sakunami Kokeshi dolls, Tohgatta Kokeshi dolls, Yajiro Kokeshi dolls, and Hijiori Kokeshi dolls. Their colors and shapes vary by craftsman. Source :YouTube screenshot The video introduces you to Kokeshi doll craftsman, Akira Suzuki from the Ganguan Kokeshi Doll Studio at the Akiu Crafts Centre at the Akiu hot springs in Sendai City, Miyagi Prefecture. He has been working on the restoration of Enakichi Kokeshi dolls by Meiji Period craftsman Enakichi Takahashi. In the interview, Akira Suzuki explains the characteristics of Kokeshi dolls and the tradition that he has been passed on. Watch the video to enjoy the traditional Japanese culture that has been pass down for generations. Sendai's Kokeshi Dolls Photo：Kokeshi doll Kokeshi dolls are popular wooden toys with a simple shape, generally consisting of a spherical head and a cylindrical body, which are used and sold for girls to play with. The body is made in a shape that can be easily held by children. One of the origins of the word, Kokeshi doll is said to be "Kohukeshi," a nickname for them in the Naruko region. Kokeshi dolls have various regional names such as Kiboko, Deku, Kogesu and Hohko. In 1940, at the first local meeting of the Tokyo Kokeshi Society, researchers and artisans debated on the name for the doll and finally decided on "Kokeshi." Source :YouTube screenshot The Kokeshi doll made by Akira Suzuki in the video is a Sakunami Kokeshi doll and it belongs to the category of Sendai Kokeshi dolls. As seen from 0:33 in the video, the characteristics of Sendai Kokeshi dolls are their thinner lower bodies that can easily be held and the simple use of black and red colors. In addition to traditional Kokeshi dolls, Akira Suzuki also creates pretty Kokeshi dolls such as Hyakuso Kokeshi doll shown from 0:57 in the video. Some Kokeshi dolls are made using the traditional techniques and skills passed down through many generations and have maintained their original shapes. Others have a more modern look to suit current tastes, with variations depending on people’s interests at the time of creation. How Kokeshi Dolls Are Made Kokeshi dolls use mainly Cornel and Japanese Maple as materials. It requires the skills of a master craftsman. Production Step 1 - Tamakiri (Crosscutting) and Kidori (conversion) Cutting the dry timber to the suitable length is called Tamakiri, while adjusting the shape of the timber suitable for use for Kokeshi dolls is called Kidori. You cut the timber with a tool such as a saw, then make it into a cylindrical shape by cutting off the corners. This is the foundation of Kokeshi dolls. Source :YouTube screenshot Production Step 2 - Wood turning (~0:14） Set the head and body on the lathe and use a plane to shave the wood. Production Step 3 - Finalizing the shape Once the wood is ground to a certain shape, it is cut and shaped with a finishing planer called a "Bankaki." Next, you use sandpaper to smooth the surface. Source :YouTube screenshot Production Step 4 - Painting (~0:41) Using the lathe, draw lines on the body and add a face on the head carefully. Production Stage 5 - Finish Make a hole in the head and attach it to the body. Other Information About Kokeshi Dolls Photo：Kokeshi doll painting experience In Naruko Onsen, where Naruko Kokeshi dolls are made, they hold the National Kokeshi Doll Festival. Traditional Kokeshi dolls from nationwide gather at the festival, and a festival parade and Kokeshi doll workshops and sales booths are set up. At Kokeshi no Shimanuki in Sendai City, Miyagi Prefecture, you can buy various local folk art and crafts from Japan's Tohoku region. You can also try a Kokeshi doll painting workshop. They sell various Kokeshi doll goods, such as Kokeshi doll in Can, which has a traditional Kokeshi doll packed in a can, and Akari Kokeshi dolls, whose bodies light up and can even be used in emergencies. These items sold at Kokeshi no Shimanuki can also be bought at their online shops. Other popular Kokeshi doll goods include local Kokeshi doll clips made of paper, masking tapes, Kokeshi doll key rings, and Kokeshi doll cakes. Kokeshi dolls with a Sendai Accent which is quite popular, and its postal stamps and LINE stamps are sold. Sendai dialect Kokeshi, a unique character that speaks in the dialect of Miyagi Prefecture, is also popular, and stamps and LINE stamps are also available. The Sendai dialect variation is quite popular because the actress Satomi Ishihara uses it. Summary of the Sendai Kokeshi Dolls Source :YouTube screenshot In the interview (~1:24), Akira Suzuki says, "You can’t keep the tradition alive just by passing it down. We conserve our tradition through innovation." Kokeshi dolls have been popular as a children’s toy for many years. Nowadays, they are popular overseas as souvenirs and collectibles from Japan. If this video has you interested in Tohoku Kokeshi dolls definitely visit the Nihon Kokeshi Doll Museum in Naruko Town. We highly recommend it! Mr. Akira Suzuki looks rather serious in this video's interview, but at the end of this 2 minute video you can tell he is full of love for Kokeshi dolls. By the time you finish this video, we're sure you'll be a fan of Kokeshi dolls too! 【Official Website】Traditional Folk Art of Miyagi – Traditional Kokeshi doll - Miyagi Prefecture Official Website https://www.pref.miyagi.jp/soshiki/shinsan/01kokesi.html

The Traditional Carp Streamers of Kazo, Saitama The video "Kazo Carp Streamers [Saitama Prefectural Government Official Sightseeing Video]"（加須の手がき鯉のぼり【埼玉県公式観光動画】）” was created by “ChokotabiSaitama,” and it introduces viewers to the traditional hand-painted carp streamers of Kazo, Saitama, in Japan's Kanto region. May 5th is Children's Day in Japan. People put up carp streamers to exorcise bad spirits and as a way to respect children's personalities and to celebrate their happiness. Kazo is known as the No. 1 producer of the Japanese traditional carp streamers. It also creates the dynamic hand-painted carp streamer. Carp streamers have become a Kazo specialty that every Kazo citizen is proud of. This video will show you how these hand-painted carp streamers are made! You can also visit the factory and have a factory tour. The History of Kazo's Hand-Painted Carp Streamers Kazo carp streamers were originally created in the early Meiji period (1868-1912) as a side job for craftsmen who usually made lanterns and umbrellas. This traditional high quality handmade carp streamer gradually gained popularity and Kazo became the number 1 carp streamer town. Masaru Hashimoto, a traditional carp streamer craftsman from the long-established carp streamer studio, Hashimoto Yakichi Shop in Kazo City, has been producing carp streamers for a long time. Unfortunately, his store closed down in 2016 after 109 years of business. Kazo Carp Streamers: How They're Made Source :YouTube screenshot 1. Cutting and sewing (0:32) In order to make these hand-painted carp streamers, you start by cutting the fabric into a carp shape and sewing it together. 2. Memawashi (1:07) Draw eyes by using a special compass to draw circles. 3. Sujigaki (1:22) Draw scales one by one using lightly colored ink. 4. Usuzumi (1:30) Add color to the scales. Adding colors is the part that requires the most focus. 5 Kinbiki (1:49) Add the finishing touches with a specialized brush. As you can see in the video, the technique used to finish the painting process is very precise. The masculine expression of the carp and intricate scales are drawn with the precise technique of the craftsman. Gigantic Kazo Carp Streamers As Kazo is known as the No. 1 carp streamer producer in Japan, they also make the world biggest carp streamer. The jumbo carp streamer is 100 meters long! The jumbo carp streamer, which was made by Kazo citizens, appears at the Tone river riverbed every May, at the Kazo City Heiwa Festival (Jumbo Carp Streamer swim). Check out the event to see the jumbo carp stream swimming dynamically in the sky. You can also see the carp streamers made with precise hand-painting techniques. The main venue of the event is at Tonegawa Riverbed Park. 400 parking spaces are available, however, due to the popularity of the event, it will likely be pretty packed. Even though these carp streamers are not the biggest carp streamers in Japan, you can see the carp streamers swimming elegantly under the blue sky at 2:23. These elaborate carp streamers are made through a variety of manufacturing processes, and the video shows the traditional craftsmanship that has been handed down in Japan for centuries. Kazo Carp Streamer Summary Photo：Kazo carp streamers Kazo's hand-painted carp streamers are a very artistic and beautiful creation. Every carp streamer is unique because they are all individually hand made. You can see the traditional Japanese carp streamers every May in Japan. Please come see the carp streamers or try to put one up in your house on Children's Day!

Introducing a Lively Shichimi-Togarashi Vendor This video introduces a vendor selling a spice called "Shichimi Tougarashi" (七味唐がらし, a 7 flavored peppercorn blend), in Asakuksa, Tokyo. In this video, you can hear the sales pitch speeches of the peppercorn vendor at a booth during a festival. His light-hearted sales pitch while mixing the seven-flavored spice is sure to have both your eyes and mouth watering! Watch and Listen to the "Shichimi-Togarashi" Vendor! Source :YouTube screenshot As shown in the video, you can watch the performance of the salesman at his food stall repeating his sales pitch while blending and selling his spices. The 7 different spices are layered side by side like a rainbow and blended beautifully- a process that gathers quite an audience. In the video, the male artisan repeats his sales pitch while blending the shichimi-togarashi, and the woman standing next to him swiftly wraps the merchandise to hand to the customers. Many tourists gather around the stall to catch a glimpse of the artisan’s amazing performance. In Japan, this type of sales pitch/vendor performance dates back to long ago. Summary of the Togarashi Salesman Did you enjoy the enchanting voice of the spice salesman? Shichimi-togarashi is an attractive addition to various Japanese dishes such as ochazuke (rice soaked with green tea, dashi, or hot water), eggs over rice, and tsukudani (seafood, meat or seaweed simmered in soy sauce and sugar). In addition to shichimi-togarashi being an everyday seasoning, it also makes for a great souvenir. If you haven't tried it before, be sure to pick up some shichimi-togarashi the next time you have the chance! If you watch this video after purchasing the product online, listening to the sales pitches might make you feel as if you bought it at an actual festival stall!

Tsuruya Yoshinobu - A Confectionery Shop in Nishijin, Kyoto This video, titled "JAPANESE CANDY ART Incredible WAGASHI Traditional Sweets Tokyo Japan," was created by "Travel Thirsty." The video shows the traditional preparation process of fresh confectionaries by the long-established confectionary shop "Tsuruya Yoshinobu" in Nishijin, Kyoto at their Tokyo branch. "Namagashi," which are made by wrapping red bean paste and shaping it into seasonal flowers and fruit shapes, are highly regarded for their beautiful appearance. Recommended Products of Yoshinobu Tsuruya Introduced in the Video Source :YouTube screenshot The confectionaries of Tsuruya Yoshinobu, a long-established Japanese confectionary shop established in 1803, are filled with the Japanese spirit of hospitality. Tsuruya Yoshinobu's "Yu-Mochi" is made of Gyuhi (a kind of rice cake made from glutinous rice flour) and has a Yuzu fruit flavor. It won the prize in the Gift Packaging Award at the Japan Packaging Contest held by the Japan Packaging Institute. Fukuhauchi is a confectionary made of Momoyama dough wrapped with white bean paste, and is said that it was purchased by Empress Shoken at the end of the Meiji Period (around 1867). Other popular items include Yokan, Kohakuto, shaved ice, Kyokanze, and arrowroot-flavored Ogura Zenzai. In addition to Tsuruya Yoshinobu's Tokyo branch shown in the video, they also have their flagship store in Kyoto that sells sweets that can only be tasted in Kyoto, so be sure to keep an eye out for them if you're visiting the Kyoto branch. The Tsuruya Yoshinobu Main Shop Source :YouTube screenshot The Tsuruya Yoshinobu main shop was built in 1992 in the style of a traditional Kyoto "Machiya" (townhouse). The building is characterized by a traditional Japanese Sukiya-style architecture. At the entrance of the main shop, there is a large signboard with the symbolic Kyoto specialty "Yu-Mochi," and in the entrance window, there's an Omotenashi display for welcoming customers. There are a lot to enjoy. There is also a tea room, a tea garden, a tea house, a resting place, a tea room called "Kayu-Jaya," a resting place, a tearoom called "Yu-shin," and a cedar door painting called "Tancho-tsuru" (丹頂鶴, "Red-crowned Crane") by Atsushi Uemura. At the "Kayu-jaya" demonstration counter, the artisans themselves will demonstrate how wagashi are made. This video shows demonstrations of Wagashi making, such as chestnut confectioneries at 0:18 and beautiful confectioneries that look like cherry blossoms at 7:04. All of them look so beautiful that it's hard to even eat them. Buying Confectioneries From Tsuruya Yoshinobu in Tokyo Source :YouTube screenshot In 2015, the Tsuruya Yoshinobu IRODORI shop opened at Kyoto Station, Hachijoguchi. In this shop, they offer a "to-go" option for some of the products. This is perfect if you're traveling on the Shinkansen. Thanks to their Tokyo branch shown in the video you can buy the famous confectioneries from Nishijin, Kyoto, in Tokyo. There's even a Japanese confectionery café in Nihonbashi (日本橋), so consider stopping by if you're looking for a place to take a break. Summary of Tsuruya Yoshinobu Source :YouTube screenshot The wagashi featured in the video are beautiful and taste amazing. They also look great on Instagram! Be sure to check out the video if you still haven't yet, as you can see the awesome skills of the chefs as the make traditional Japanese confectionaries. ◆Tsuruya Yoshinobu Tokyo Branch｜General Information◆ 【Address】1-5-5, Nihonbashi Muromachi-cho, Chuo-ku, Tokyo, 103-0022 【Access】Directly connected to the underground station of Mitsukoshimae Station via the Tokyo Metro Hanzomon and Ginza Lines (Exit A6). 【Hours】First Floor Shop 9:00-18:00; Second Floor Kayu-jaya / Rest Area 9:30-18:00 (last order 17:30) 【Closures】First Floor shop: Closed on New Year's Day / some Wednesdays ※Closed every Wednesday from September to November Second Floor Kayu-jaya / Rest Area: Closed every Wednesday (Open on national holidays) 【Phone】075-441-0105 ※The hours of operation may have changed, so please check before you visit. 【Official Website】Kyo-Kasho Tsuruya Yoshinobu Official Online store https://www.tsuruyayoshinobu.jp/shop/pages/en_about.aspx