Yakisoba at Japan's Festival Stalls This video, titled "Japanese yakisoba street food japan how to make yakisoba" (物凄い焼きそば女職人 焼きそば屋台 職人芸 無修正 ノーカット Japanese yakisoba street food japan how to make yakisoba[飯テロ公式]), was released by "JAPAN FOOD 〜 The Ultimate Food Porn 〜" (JAPAN FOOD 〜最高の飯テロ〜). The video shows how yakisoba is made at food stalls at festivals in Japan. In the video, the yakisoba chef works quickly to prepare a huge amount of yakisoba, an amazing feat that you'd be hard pressed to imitate. Check out the amazing skills in the video! How Delicious Festival Yakisoba is Made! Photo：A yakisoba stand Yakisoba is a popular food that is relatively easy to make at home. Prepare some Chinese noodles and cabbage, throw it into an oiled pan, add water and fry it up. After stir-frying the noodles, season with yakisoba sauce. We recommend trying it with some mayonnaise or adding pickled ginger on the side, two authentic ways of serving it in Japan. Yakisoba sold at Japanese food stands are generally sold in small plastic containers, as shown at 3:38 in the video. What is the charm of the yakisoba stand that is shown in the video? Photo：yakisoba stand Of course, homemade yakisoba is delicious, but there's just something about the yakisoba at festivals that will have you coming back for more. The food stands found at festivals across Japan use plenty of ingredients, and season them all at once with tasty seasonings. Making a lot of yakisoba at once is a lot of work, especially when doing it for hours on end. As a staple food of festivals, yakisoba can be purchased at a reasonable price, generally costing around 200 to 500 yen, depending on the area. Different Varieties of Yakisoba Photo：Yakisoba sandwich There are many different recipes for yakisoba, so try cooking it at home or if you're in Japan, be sure to visit a specialty store. Yakisoba sanwiches with yakisoba sandwiched between a hotdog bun is popular as a light snack that anyone can enjoy. There are also local recipes from different regions of Japan, such as omusoba and sobameshi. Yakisoba can be seasoned in a number of ways. In addition to yakisoba sauce, there's also yakisoba made with Worcestershire sauce, soy sauce and oyster sauce, salt and pepper, and even miso. Summary of Japan's Delicious Yakisoba Stands Photo：A yakisoba stand The video introduced in this article shows how large amounts of yakisoba is made at festivals in Japan. It's quite impressive, and if you haven't eaten yet, it might just have you in the mood for some tasty noodles! Be sure to try some delicious yakisoba when visiting any of Japan's exciting festivals.

An Introduction to Edo Furin Wind Chimes This video, titled "Edo Furin – Let the sound of the wind chimes refresh you" (江戸風鈴～音色で涼しさを感じる～), was created by "Japan Video Topics." It's an introductory video showcasing the traditional Japanese glass wind chimes "Edo Furin" (江戸風鈴). This video answers the following questions: ・What are "Furin" (Japanese wind chimes)? ・What are the origins of "Furin"? ・How are Edo Furin made? Back when there was no air conditioning in Japan, people thought of many ways to feel cool and refreshed in the heat of summer. Bamboo screens called "sudare" were used to block out the sunlight and water was sprinkled on the ground to cool down the pavement outside of one's home. Furin were another item created to help deal with the summer heat. Wind chimes are often hung from the eaves of one's home, and when the wind blows they create a beautiful melody that makes you feel cool and refreshed. This article and video will introduce "Edo Furin," a type of Japanese wind chime made of glass. Be sure to watch the video to learn more about what exactly Edo Furin are and how they're made. What are "Edo Furin"? Photo：Japanese traditional craft Edo Furin Edo Furin are made today using the same techniques that were used 300 years ago (during the Edo period (1603AD - 1868AD)). Furin (wind chimes) date all the way back to the 7th century in Japan. They were often hung from the eaves of temples and were at the time referred to as "Futaku" (風鐸). Futaku were made of metal and were believed to prevent natural disasters. Nowadays, Furin are available in a variety of shapes and colors. In 1965, Yoshiharu Shinohara (篠原儀治) came up with the name "Edo Furin" for the glass Furin he had been taught to make from previous generations. The glass Furin, which are made completely by hand and without using any sort of mold, are known for the characteristic sound they produce. The Process of Making Edo Furin: Photo：How Edo Furin, a traditional Japanese craft, are made First, glass is melted inside a crucible in a furnace. 1. The melted glass is wrapped around a glass rod. 2. A glass sphere is created by blowing into a tube. 3. Additional melted glass is wrapped around the first sphere. 4. A hole is created to pass a thread through. 5. After blowing a second larger glass sphere, the two spheres are separated by cutting off the first smaller sphere. 6. The edges are smoothed slightly, purposefully leaving a rough, jagged edge. 7. Finally, the glass sphere is hand painted from the inside. From 2:00 in the video, you can take a look at Kenichi Otsuki (大槻賢一) (a craftsman of Shinohara Furin Honpo (篠原風鈴本舗)) as he creates Edo Furin by hand. More About "Edo Furin," a Traditional Japanese Craft Photo：Edo Furin, a traditional Japanese craft One of the striking features of Edo Furin is the sound created by the jagged glass edge, which is similar to the sound of a bell cricket in fall. "Shinohara Furin Honpo," the Edo Furin store introduced in the video, is located in Asakusa, Edogawa, Tokyo (東京都江戸川区浅草) and currently sells a variety of Edo Furin as well as offering glassblowing experiences and Edo Furin decorating experiences. Edo Furin can also be purchased online with prices starting at around ¥1,870. More expensive items include the Edokiriko Edo Furin which costs ¥6,050, the checkered pattern Edo Furin which costs ¥11,000 and the unique Temari design Edo Furin can be purchased for ¥44,000. (Prices correct as of December 2020) Summary of "Edo Furin," a Traditional Japanese Craft Photo：The traditional Japanese craft Edo Furin and a Woman in Yukata One of the most fascinating features of Edo Furin is the fact that each and every one has a unique sound as a result of the traditional method used to make them, a method which has been passed down through generations for hundreds of years. In the video, you can learn about the history and unique characteristics of Edo Furin as well as how they're made!

Edo Kiriko There are a variety of traditional crafts in Japanese culture, including "Edo Kiriko," a highly artistic piece of artwork that shines like a jewel. This is a video interview with an artisan of the traditional craft "Edo Kiriko," in which he talks about the process of making Edo Kiriko and the traditions of the craft. This article will briefly introduce Edo Kiriko alongside the video. Enjoy the beautiful art of Edo Kiriko, which has been handed down in Japan since ancient times. Edo Kiriko - A Compilation of Traditional Crafts Edo Kiriko, a traditional craft that has been handed down as part of traditional Japanese culture, is a historic traditional craft with beautiful jewel-like designs cut into glass. Edo Kiriko is said to have started in the late Edo Period (1750-1860 A.D.) when emery was used to engrave designs on the surface of glass. It gets its name from the cutting of the glass (切, pronounced "kiri," means cut in Japanese). Source :YouTube screenshot From the Taisho Era (1912-1926) to the early Showa period (around 1930), cut glass became popular, and a variety of products, such as tableware, became very popular. Now, prices vary from a few thousand yen to several tens of thousands of yen for the glass types and several millions of yen for jar types. Since each piece is hand crafted by an artisan, they are more expensive than regular glasses. Edo Kiriko is produced using Kagami crystal and soda lime glass. There are a very rich variety of patterns and colors used in the pieces. The video also includes an overview of the work in an Edo Kiriko workshop, and rare sketches can be seen at 3:10 in the video. The patterns show each artisan's sense of craftsmanship, and each artisan creates his or her own tasteful designs. The reason why many of the pieces are said to be high quality works of art is because of the skill of the artisans that create them. In the Edo period, the glassware was monochrome, but these days, they use glass with a colored surface layer. This is called "irogise" (color-dressing). Artisans design the colorful glasses while keeping in mind how they will look when drunk from. In the video, the Edo Kiriko artisan emphasizes that it's a traditional craft to be enjoyed by the eyes, which is why this part is so important. Although Edo Kiriko is an ancient Japanese culture, it is not a hereditary system; rather, it is passed down from generation to generation by apprentices who are serious about glass working. At 5:17 in the video, the artisan in the interview describes how he would like to continue to share his approach to Edo Kiriko with the next generation. Edo Kiriko - How It's Made Source :YouTube screenshot The following is a brief explanation of how Edo Kiriko is made. 1. Waridashi (Indexing) The glass is placed on a turntable and basic lines are drawn with a magic marker or similar writing instrument. This process is explained by the Edo Kiriko artisan at 3:10 in the video. 2. Arazuri (Rough Cutting) Making basic cuts that will be the basis for the pattern on the glass. 3. Sanbanzuri (Fine Cutting) Fine cuts are made into the glass. 4. Sokoishikake (Fine tuning of cuts) Smooth out the cuts so there are no irregularities. 5. Migaki (Polish) Polishing the glass to give it a nice shine. 6. Arai (Washing) Wash the glass. 7. Completed And it's finished! Edo Kiriko Makes a Great Gift, Souvenir, or Keepsake Photo：Edo Kiriko We highly recommended Edo Kiriko as a souvenir or gift. They can be purchased online and also at physical stores in Asakusa and Ginza, where you can see them up close and get a better look at their beauty. "Hanasho," with its main store in Kameido, and the "Sumida Edo Kiriko Museum" in Sumida, are famous for their shops, while the Edo Kiriko Cooperative in Kameido has a showroom where you can view various types of Edo Kiriko. Edo Kiriko includes glass cups, wine glasses, rock glasses, chilled sake cups, sake cups, sake glasses, sake bottles, lipped bowls, tumblers, beer glasses, and other items to suit your taste. Handmade Edo Kiriko would make a great gift for people of all ages. At the Edo Kiriko classes in Asakusa and Nihonbashi, you can experience the techniques of Edo Kiriko and draw patterns such as cherry blossoms and roses on glass. You can also learn the artisanal skills at the Edo Kiriko workshop and give a gift full of Japanese culture. At the Edo Kiriko Exhibition and the Edo Kiriko Museum, you can see many artisanal works of craft. If you want to see the craftsmanship in person, this is a great place to visit. You can also buy your favorite pieces as souvenirs. Like Edo Kiriko, "Satsuma-Kiriko" is another popular type of cut glass. These pieces are more suitable for ornamental purposes than Edo Kiriko. Summary of Edo Kiriko This article introduced the history of Edo Kiriko, a traditional craft in which Japanese craftsmanship truly shines. We recommend getting a pair of Edo Kiriko glasses that you can use for a variety of occassions. Due to the delicate nature of Edo Kiriko glass, they must be cared for more carefully than normal glasses. This video talks about the uncompromising dedication of Edo Kiriko artisans and the appeal of Edo Kiriko, which cannot be described in such a short amount of time. Please enjoy the video and learning about the depth of the ancient Japanese craft.

Enjoy Hakone, Ashigarashita-gun, Kanagawa Prefecture! New sightseeing boat "Queen Ashinoko" production process video introduction This time we'll be introducing the construction process of the Queen Ashinoko. The video "Queen Ashinoko's Construction From Start to Finish" (クイーン芦ノ湖」の製造過程動画「クイーン芦ノ湖ができるまで」), was released by "Hakone Pirate Ship Hakone Sightseeing Cruise (Official)." The Queen Ashinoko is the 3rd pirate ship that is in service on Hakone's largest lake, Lake Ashinoko. Hakone is a hot spring resort area representing East Japan, and the area is full of tourists year round. However, the appeal of Hakone is not just the hot springs. Going for a cruise on Lake Ashinoko is also one of the major attractions of sightseeing in Hakone, and, as shown in the footage, in 2019, the 3rd pirate ship "Queen Ashinoko" went into service. It has a gleaming golden hull and the design, with its luxurious and classic interior using wood, has become widely talked about and is already very popular. You can see the appearance of the beautiful hull at 4:57 during its commencement ceremony. The Queen Ashinoko was named after a pirate ship, and was designed as a tourist ship of luxury and elegance, with the concept of "from a ship that fights to a ship that prays for peace..."On the bow is a statue of Nike of Samothrace, which is exhibited at the Louvre Museum. It is designed as a luxurious and elegant sightseeing ship. In order to make use of the classical design as a pirate ship, Dawn Design Institute was asked to undertake the basic design; and as shown at 0:35 in the video, Mr. Eiji Mitooka, who served as the industrial designer, says that he was very particular about pursuing a sense of fun, comfort, and luxuriousness from the customer’s point of view. Building the Pirate Ship and How It Was Transported Source :YouTube screenshot Typically, shipyards are located by the sea. Even ships like Queen Ashinoko, that are located in the mountains are built near the sea. In fact, Queen Ashinoko was built at a shipyard in Tsurumi, Yokohama, in Kanagawa Prefecture. But then how was such a massive ship like the Queen Ashinoko brought to Hakone? Well actually, the basic manufacturing of the frame and exterior was done at the shipyard, and then the hull was disassembled into 10 blocks and transported to Hakone by land. You can see the transport at 1:30 in the video. After being transported to Hakone in a large trailer, the Queen Ashinoko was assembled at the owner's company's dock, and then the finishing touches of painting and interior work were done, and finally it was completed. The actual assembly process is shown at 2:37 in the video. You can see that the entire process, including the golden paint job, is carried out by shipbuilding specialists. The wooden interior design was designed by computer and laser engraved for a beautiful finish. Queen Ashinoko is the first ship in Japan to have a laser-engraved interior design using computer graphics. The Launch Ceremony in April 2019! Source :YouTube screenshot Watching the launch ceremony for a ship is quite an awesome experience. You can see a shiny new ship entering the water at Togendai Port at around 4:00 in the video, and there are scenes of many people celebrating at the inauguration ceremony and actual passengers on board at the time of the launch. Summary of the Queen Ashinoko Photo：Mt. Fuji from Lake Ashinoko The tour course of the Hakone pirate ships (Royal II, Victory, Queen Ashinoko) is an approximately 1-hour cruise that goes from Hakonemachi Port → Moto Hakone Port (Hakone Shrine) → Togendai Port → Hakonemachi Port. The magnificent view of Lake Ashinoko from the special cabin is sure to look great on Instagram. Don't forget to take pictures!! The official website of the Hakone Pirate Ships offers a gallery of each ship, prices, timetables, transportation, merchandise and events. Advance reservations are required to join the tour, so please check the official website for that as well. 【Official Website】Queen Ashinoko｜Introduction of the pirate ship｜Hakone Pirate Ship https://www.hakone-kankosen.co.jp/foreign/en/ 【Tripadvisor】Hakone Pirate Ship https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g298171-d319908-Reviews-Hakone_Sightseeing_Cruise-Hakone_machi_Ashigarashimo_gun_Kanagawa_Prefecture_Kanto.html

Highly Specialized Shogi Pieces and Human Shogi in Tendo, Yamagata! This video, titled "Shogi Culture in Tendo - The Thoughts of Craftsmen and Human Shogi" (天童市の将棋駒文化～生産者の想いと人間将棋～), was uploaded by "The City of Tendo" (天童市). It's a PR video that was released by the Public Relations Department of Tendo, Yamagata, located in Japan's Tohoku region. Tendo is a small town in Yamagata Prefecture that produces more than 95% of Japan's shogi pieces. It has a long history, with roots dating back to around 1830. The origins date back to the end of the Edo period (1603-1868), when shogi itself was considered to be connected to bushido and the samurai way of life, and shogi pieces began to be made as an in-house occupation for many warriors. Tendo's passion for shogi is so strong that various shogi events are held as part of the city's urban development. As seen at 0:38 in the video, there are symbols of Shogi pieces on mail boxes, taxis, and bridges, and even shogi puzzles on the sidewalks of the streets. Urban Development and Shogi in Tendo, Yamagata. The Unique Charm of Tendo, a Town Full of Shogi! Photo：Human shogi, Tendo, Yamagata Tendo, Yamagata famous for shogi, hosts an event called the Tendo Cherry Blossom Festival: Human Shogi. This is one of the urban development events held just around the time the cherry blossoms are in full bloom in April, surrounded by approximately 2,000 cherry trees at the top of Mt. Maizuru. Human shogi, which can be seen from 1:12 in the video, is loved by people of all ages and genders. The basic rules are the same as for regular shogi. This unique shogi tournament, in which people play as shogi pieces, shows the smiling faces of Tendo residents and their passion for Shogi. Tendo is a town full of attractions and shogi alike. In addition to visiting the Shogi Museum and other famous attractions, we also recommend taking a stroll around the town of shogi, looking at souvenirs as you walk, and enjoying a tour of the shogi pieces that decorate the sidewalks. Shogi Culture and the Shogi Craftsmen of Tendo, Yamagata Producing 95% Of Japan's Shogi Pieces Tendo, which has supported the production of shogi pieces since the end of the Edo period, employs a method unique to Tendo that has been handed down from one generation to the next. Kijizukuri, the process of shaping logs into shogi pieces, is one of the fundamental operations in Shogi piece production. It's a high-quality crafting technique that can only be realized by Tendo's shogi craftsmen, who care deeply for the people that will be holding the pieces they craft. You can see how shogi pieces are made at 1:52 in the video. The calligraphy on crafted shogi pieces is done with lacquer. Unlike the ink used in calligraphy, lacquer cannot be used to write smoothly. Using lacquer to write characters such as "Osho" (王将, King), "Hisha" (飛車, Rook), and "Kaku" (角, Bishop) on small shogi pieces brings the shogi pieces to life. Furthermore, carving pieces using a seal-engraving knife is another well-known method. In Tendo, Yamagata, shogi piece craftsmen carve the characters by hand. This gives the pieces a texture and smoothness that machines cannot replicate. In this way, Tendo supports Japan's important, traditional shogi culture. The Different Pieces of Tendo, Yamagata Used in Titled Matches and Matches Between Shogi Meijin Photo：Shogi pieces Hori-koma (彫埋駒, engraved pieces) and Moriage-koma (盛上駒, pieces with raised characters painted with a special brush) used in matches between shogi meijin and in titled tournaments, are made by shogi piece craftsmen in Tendo, Yamagata. The shogi meijin system has a history of more than 400 years and is supported by the superb pieces made by the shogi craftsmen of Tendo. Hohoemi no Yado Takinoyu, a long-established ryokan in Tendo, where shogi culture is deeply rooted, is widely known to shogi fans as the site of the Ryuo Tournament. The Ryuo Room at Hohoemi no Yado Takinoyu has been passed down through the generations as the site of one of shogi's most historically famous games, in which Yoshiharu Habu, a shogi meijin (master) and chess FIDE Master, won the Ryuo title in 1994, with a 4-2 victory. The long-established ryokan Hohoemi no Yado Takinoyu can be reserved by the general public, and can be used as lodging when sightseeing in Tendo City. Sightseeing and Specialty Products of Tendo, Yamagata, a Town of Shogi We recommend using a sightseeing volunteer guide or using the "Tendo WARABE KOMA GUIDE" to explore the sights of Tendo, Yamagata. Various pieces are on display at the Shogi Museum as well. In addition, for residents of Japan, Tendo also focuses on Furusato Nozei tax payments, and returns include Yamagata Prefecture's specialty products, such as La France (French pears) and cherries, as well as shogi piece straps (key holders, etc.), decorative pieces, and sets of shogi pieces and shogi boards. Summary of Tendo, a Place of Shogi Culture in Yamagata Prefecture Photo：A shogi art installment at Tendo Park, Tendo, Yamagata Shogi piece culture has been handed down since the end of the Edo period in Tendo. In Tendo, Yamagata, shogi piece craftsmen have long supported traditional Japanese culture. The passion of Shogi piece craftsmen and Tendo's urban development events to preserve traditional culture... Enjoy the charm of Tendo's shogi culture in this 6-minute video. 【Trip Advisor】Tendo, a Town of Shogi https://www.tripadvisor.com/Tourism-g1023678-Tendo_Yamagata_Prefecture_Tohoku-Vacations.html

Murakami Kibori Lacquerware - A Traditional Craft of Niigata Prefecture This video, titled "手技TEWAZA「村上木彫堆朱」Murakami Kibori Lacquerware／伝統工芸 青山スクエア Japan traditional crafts Aoyama Square," was released by "Traditional Crafts Aoyama Square." Murakami Kibori Lacquerware (Murakami Kibori Tsuishu), introduced in the video, is a general term for six types of carving, including tsuishu, tsuikoku, and shumarinuri, and it is a traditional craft of the Murakami region of Niigata Prefecture, which has been widely known as a natural lacquer production area since the Heian period (794-1185). Murakami Kibori Lacquerware was introduced by a lacquer maker in Kyoto at the beginning of the 15th century as a technique for painting lacquer on wood carvings. This was done in imitation of Chinese tsuishu (lacquerware), and the technique was introduced to the Murakami region after a temple was built there. The technique was first learned by the carpenters who built the temple, after which it was was passed on to samurai duringEdo period (1603-1868), then to the townspeople, and finally to present day Japan. In this article, we'll go over Murakami Kibori Lacquerware, a traditional lacquer technique of Niigata prefecture. The Process of Making Murakami Kibori Lacquerware Source :YouTube screenshot Along with the video, we'll be introducing some of the steps in the 18 to 20 step process that craftsmen use to make Murakami Kibori Lacquerware by hand. 1. Sketching (0:40~) This serves as a guide for engraving and is drawn directly on the wooden plate. Drawing with a brush that can express stronger and weaker lines is fundamental to the process. 2. Carving (0:47~) Wood carving is performed by using a chisel called an "Urajiro" on the sketch drawn in step 1. There are two types of carvings, the two-dimensional Shishiai-bori and three-dimensional Hikisage-bori. In the video, the craftsman explains that the most important thing is to carve the wood as though it were a living thing, making the most of the different grains of each tree. 3. Sanding (1:18~) This is the process of sanding the roughness of the blade marks with sandpaper (in the old days, horsetail was used) to give roundness and softness to the carving. This makes the work even more three-dimensional. 4. Hardening This involves adding a small amount of red husks to raw lacquer and using a brush to soak the entire wood with lacquer. This is also an important step because it is done to solidify the foundation of making a durable Tsuishu. Source :YouTube screenshot 5. Smoothing (1:29) In the important undercoating process to make durable lacquerware, raw lacquer and polishing powder are mixed and applied 2-3 times to the plain areas without engravings. 6. Polishing The process of water-polishing the coated surface using an imperial whetstone. This is done with applying rust lacquer and is repeated 2-3 times and the lacquerware is allowed to dry for at least a few days after the rust lacquering process. 7. Middle Coating (1:40~) The process of dabbing on lacquer on with a pad or fingertip and then finishing painting with a brush so that the engraved pattern is not filled with lacquer. Generally, oil-free refined lacquer is used for this. 8. Polishing the Middle Coating It is a process of carefully water-sanding the surface with a fine-grained natural stone whetstone called Murakami whetstone or a water file. 9. Top Coating (2:06~) Brightly colored vermilion lacquer is dabbed on with a pad or fingertip and finished painting using a brush so as not to fill the carved patterns similar to the intermediate coat. Source :YouTube screenshot 10. Matt Finishing (2:23~) An important process for polishing the top-coated glossy surface with charcoal or polishing powder evenly with water to make it a deep and calm-looking product. 11. Engraving (2:44~) The designs are carved once more. This fine carving is made to supplement the earlier wood carving with a fine-pointed triangular chisel. Expressions such as leaf veins, feathers, and mountain surfaces are re-engraved. 12. Finishing (3:06~) This step involves adding a small amount of red iron oxide to high-quality raw lacquer and rubbing it with a brush over the entire vessel. The matte surface is moist and firm, and this completes the production process of Murakami Kibori Tsuishu. The beautiful, finished product, like a work of art, can be seen from 3:23 in the video. These unique techniques have been designated Intangible Cultural Properties of Niigata Prefecture and Murakami Kibori Lacquerware was designated a National Traditional Craft. Summary of Murakami Kibori Lacquerware, A Traditional Welcome Gift of Niigata Prefecture Source :YouTube screenshot Murakami Kibori Lacquerware, a traditional craft that has been handed down since the Heian period, includes products such as jubako (stacked boxes), sake cups, tea ware, flower ware, confectionery ware, sake ware, etc. that are all great for celebrations, souvenirs, and gifts. Murakami Kibori Lacquerware is a testament to the living history of Japan, through which you can enjoy the techniques that craftsmen have refined and passed down since ancient times. 【Official Website】Murakami Kibori Lacquerware | Traditional Crafts | Traditional Crafts Aoyama Square https://kougeihin.jp/en/craft/0509/

Koi Carp: Loved by the Japanese Since Long Ago This video is called ‘Koi Carp 〜Swimming Art〜 (錦鯉 〜泳ぐ芸術〜)’ and made by JVT Channel (JVTチャンネル). The video shows you colorful koi swimming elegantly. Koi are aquarium fish with a long history. Historical records show koi being used as the inspiration for painting patterns of items exhibited at expos during the Taisho Period (1912～1926). They are actually an invasive species to Japan. The specially bred fish have been bred into many different varieties. Koi are kept as aquarium fish in aquariums and ponds within Japanese gardens. Their characteristics are their beautiful patterns and striking colors. The average size of these fish is between 30 and 60 cm and their life span is around 30 years. Let’s take a look at why these fish are so attractive. The video shows you a koi farm and a competition that you don’t get an opportunity to see often. Be sure to check it out while reading this article. What Are Koi? Photo：Koi Koi were originally called "irogoi" (色鯉, colored carp), hanagoi (花鯉, flower carp), and "moyougoi" (模様鯉, patterned carp) in Japanese. They started to be called Nishikigoi (錦鯉, brocade carp) because of their luxurious designs reminiscent of a brocade. The Japanese brocade shown at 0:14 in the documentary video is a Japanese traditional silk fabric made by weaving variously colored threads. Koi were originally eaten as a food, then, one day, a unique fish with beautiful patterns appeared. There are many kinds of koi, such as red and white and tri-colored koi with red, white, and black. In addition to the Taisho Sanshoku (tri-color) and the Showa Sanshoku, there are some unusually colored ones, such as light yellow, autumn Green, tortoise shell patterned koi, reflective koi, five Colored koi, and gold and Peacock koi as well. How Are Koi Looked After? Source :YouTube screenshot It takes a lot of work to raise beautiful Nishikigoi. The Dainichi Koi Farm in Niigata Prefecture in Japan's Koshinetsu region, farms koi. At the farm, they strictly control water temperature and quality, as well as feeding schedules. They put great care into raising beautiful koi. They are also very particular about the feed given to their koi. This can be seen from 1:13 in the video. From 1:37, you can see many baby koi as well. Hiroshi Mano from Dainichi Koi Farm says in the interview, "The most important things are maintaining proper water temperature and quality. Beautiful koi are strong, healthy koi. From 3:27 in the video, you can see the annual National Koi Competition. Koi from the Dainichi Koi Farm were the winners of this competition. How to Get Your Very Own Japanese Koi There are many kinds of koi. In Japan, many people love koi. Koi with patterns or beautiful colors are sold at auctions for sometimes astronomically high prices. Furthermore, you can buy specially bred varieties of koi at online shops and Yahoo Japan Auctions, but they usually go for quite a bit of money. Some orders for Japanese koi come from overseas. The number of koi exported overseas is increasing year by year. Popular koi have been used as a motifs in traditional Japanese crafts as well. We recommend buying plates and chopstick holders with koi pattern designs. Summary of Japan's "Swimming Jewels" Photo：Koi In Japan, there are many kinds of aquarium fish, such as goldfish and Japanese rice fish. Among them, koi are loved by many people for their jewel-like beauty. Koi are born around Niigata Prefecture area. You can learn the history and the characteristics of koi at Nishikigoi no Sato in Niigata, the birthplace of koi, and at Fukuoka Koinosato Park in Fukuoka-machi, Toyama Prefecture in Japan's Hokuriku region, which is one of Japan’s most famous koi production towns. If you have a large landscape garden or a large aquarium and would like some koi of your own, try searching online or try out some auction sites to see if they have what you're looking for. You can see many koi with beautiful patterns in the video. Be sure to check out the video to enjoy the beauty of Japan's "swimming jewels."

Video introduction of an exquisite crab dish prepared by a chef in Kanazawa, Ishikawa, Japan. This video, titled "Japanese Food - SNOW CRAB Sashimi Hotpot Grilled Seafood Kanazawa Japan," was produced by "Travel Thirsty." It introduces the crab dishes prepared by the skilled artisans at Ryokan Ryokusoune in Kanazawa. Crab is one of the most popular dishes in Japanese cuisine. You can enjoy a wonderful time eating delicious snow crab, especially when it's served as sashimi, crab hot pot, or grilled crab in a traditional kaiseki meal. How to Make and Eat Crab Cuisine Photo：Cooked crab miso Skill and knowledge of ingredients is essential for chefs of high-end restaurants when preparing crab. Chefs quickly process the prepared crabs early in the morning and use a variety of recipes to prepare them. Since the shells of crab are very hard, they have to use sharp knives to process them. Crab is a popular foodstuff that has been traditionally eaten in Japan since ancient times. The Japanese have a tradition of cooking and eating not only the crab meat, but also the crab miso (miso-like paste found inside a crab) inside the shell, which is delicious. You can see the crab miso being prepared at 18:34 in the video. Each type of crab has a different season, so you can enjoy delicious crab dishes throughout the year. The video is about 30 minutes long and shows a variety of delicious crab dishes. Check out the video to see the exquisite display. Seaside Towns with Delicious Seafood Photo：Crab kaiseki cuisine Japan's seaside ryokan and traditional dining establishments offer a superb menu of fresh crab dishes and other seasonal seafood. Traditional Japanese kaiseki dishes are eaten in the following order: appetizer, wanmori (stewed dishes), sashimi, grilled food, boiled food, side dish, rice, and lastly, the jelly desert. The beauty of crab is that it can be used in every possible way, from appetizers to main dishes, and even in desserts. Summary of Japan’s Delicious Crab Cuisine Photo：Crab cuisine While there are of course other cultures that eat crab outside of Japan, there are many variations of Japanese crab dishes that will keep you coming back for more. Check out the various items on the menu when you're eating Japanese food and find your favorite crab dish. When you travel to the Kanazawa, Kaga, and Noto areas, be sure to try some of the exquisite crab dishes shown in the video! ◆Ryokan Ryokusone｜General Information◆ 【Address】YUZUYA RYOKAN KANAZAWA RYOKUSONE 2-1-10-1 TENJINCHO KANAZAWA-city ISHIKAWA-pre 【Access】Take the Hokuriku Shinkansen to Kanazawa Station and from there it's approximately 20 minutes by taxi (※Tell the driver "Tsubakihara-Tenmangu-mae") 【Telephone】076-208-3999 【Official Website】YUZUYA RYOKAN KANAZAWA RYOKUSONE http://ryokusone.jp/en/ 【Tripadvisor】Ryokusone https://www.tripadvisor.com/Hotel_Review-g298115-d8677845-Reviews-Ryokusone-Kanazawa_Ishikawa_Prefecture_Hokuriku_Chubu.html

Introducing Baby Castella Stalls! "Japanese Stall Series: Baby Castella Edition（日本の屋台シリーズ ベビーカステラ編）" is a video that people who love Japanese festival culture and event stalls should definitely watch. Baby Castella is a standard for festival menus. At the stalls, they use a special baking machine similar to a takoyaki machine and bake round and cute castella with amazing craftsmanship. Check out the amazing skills of real craftsmen at baby castella specialty stores that are especially popular at Japanese food stalls. What Are Baby Castella? Origins and How They're Made Photo：Baby Castella It is said that the history of Baby Castella began in the Taisho era (1912 to 1926 AD) with a stall in Nishinomiya City, Hyogo Prefecture in Japan's Kansai region. A stall craftsman made a menu that closely resembles a commercially available bell castella, and it became a very popular product. You can learn more about how to make baby castella at 0:53 in the video. Just pour the dough into a special baking machine that the craftsman has, close the baking machine lid and bake it. As you can see from 3:34, the baked baby castella uses a skewer to fly neatly into the pom-pom and saucer. It looks easy, but baking a lot of baby castellas requires the quick work of a skilled craftsman. Calories and Prices of Baby Castella Photo：Baby Castella Nakazawa Seika, a famous baby castella store that has opened stores in Fukagawa Fudo and Asakusa Tori-no-ichi, is a castella specialty shop where you can wait for up to three hours. The baby castella sold at the shop is pretty reasonably priced however. They start at 12 for 300 yen (~$3 USD). One baby castella is about 30 calories, but these babies are freshly made and super tasty, so you might want to be careful about eating too much. Making Baby Castella at Home! Photo：Baby castella made with a takoyaki pan It is often thought that a special machine used in a specialty store is needed to make baby castella, but you can actually make them at home, using a takoyaki machine. If you use a hot cake mix and bake the dough with a takoyaki machine, you can make your very own delicious baby castella. We recommend giving it a try if you have the chance! Summary of the Baby Castella Stalls Source :YouTube screenshot There are many people who look forward to eating street food at festivals. On festival and event days, eating lunch and snacks at the stalls is a great way to try new foods and make some great memories. One of the pleasures of Japanese food stalls is to be able to see the craftsman's skills in action. If you are sightseeing in Japan, be sure to stop by the baby castella stalls where you can see the amazing techniques shown in the video.

An Introduction to "Kakejiku" This video titled “Kakejiku-Making of a Japanese Hanging Scroll “ produced by “Niko Kitsakis” features how to make a kakejiku by Koseido Kamon Hyoguten. Koseido Kamon Hyoguten in Takarazuka city (宝塚市：Takarazuka-shi ), Hyogo (兵庫県: Hyogo prefecture) was established in 1912. Hideyuki Kamon is the fourth hyogushi (mounter) of this store. Hyogu refers to scrolls, hanging scrolls, folding screens, fusuma (sliding doors), panels, frames, and picture books made by stretching cloth and paper. Hideyuki Kamon, a first class mounting technician, is involved in various works including the making of kakejiku, frames, folding screens, partitions, and the repairing of shoji or old calligraphic works. This video focuses on the making of kakejiku (a very rare sight), as well as the names of the scrolls. Please enjoy the video of this ancient Japanese craft. The Origin and Culture of Kakejiku Photo：Kakejiku People enjoy having kakejiku displayed in their living room. Kakejiku is also called Kakehaba or Yukakake. The art originated in China and came to Japan along with Buddhism over 1000 years ago, before the Heian Period. Its style was established through the cultures of Calligraphy and Tea Ceremony. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Heian_period In this video, Hideyuki Kamon talks about the history of Kakejiku from the Kamakura, Edo period to now. There are various types of kakejiku such as Kakemono or Kakeji and Buddhist sutra, ink painting or calligraphy, as well as modern illustrations are drawn in a kakejiku. Kakehaba is counted as “Hito-haba, Futa-haba”. Hideyuki Kamon, the Mounter Who Keeps Pushing Himself Source :YouTube screenshot Hideyuki Kamon says Kakejiku is very deep and he is always finding new ways to challenge himself. According to the interview with him, he discovers new things every day and works hard to refine his new discoveries. How to Make Kakejiku Source :YouTube screenshot You can see how kakejiku are made in the footage from 6:14. Kakejiku is made of washi (traditional Japanese handmade paper), cloth and wooden sticks. A Kakejiku consists of components such as Honshi, Futai, Ichimonji, Chumawashi, Hashira and Hasso. The top and bottom parts of a kakejiku are called "Ten" and "Chi," respectively. The mounter’s techniques are necessary to decorate the washi. You can see a Honshi being sharpened by Ichimonji in the footage from 6:37. A kakejiku is completed through these various steps. Get a Beautiful Kakejiku and Feel Traditional Japanese Culture in Your Own Home! Prices for historical works or ones made by famous artists could end up costing you a lot of money. On the other hand, you can buy kakejiku online at sites like Amazon or Rakuten. If you are interested in ink painting or calligraphy or want to incorporate some Japanese culture into your life, we recommend getting a handmade kakejiku. It's important to focus on not only design, size, and characteristics of the kakejiku, but also on a preservation or storing method for the works before purchasing them. Summary of Kakejiku Kakejiku is a high quality, traditional Japanese craft. Please watch the impressive skills of this kakejiku artisan to learn how to make beautiful kakejiku. Enter the world of kakejiku that you didn’t even know existed. 【Official Website】Koseido Kamon Hyoguten in Takarazuka- A shop to first class mounters https://kouseidou.jp/

Video introduction of how to cook eel at "Kawayo" eel restaurant in Narita City, Chiba Prefecture. The video, taken at Kawatoyo, a Meiji style restaurant situated on the way to the Naritasan (Narita Mountain) Shinshoji Temple in Narita, Chiba, shows how the chefs prepare Japanese eel (Unagi) before cooking them. There is a common saying among eel restaurant chefs that gives some insight into how difficult mastering the techniques behind their job is, it goes: “Three years of skewering, eight years of cutting, and a lifetime of grilling.” In spite of the difficulty of this job, the chefs in the video make it look easy, and even enjoyable. In just two minutes, one can easily understand how skilled the chefs at Kawatoyo are. Be sure to follow along with the video as you read the article! Grilled Eel, Narita’s Specialty Photo：Eels When most people think of Narita they think of eel. And it's no surprise either. With its 60 eel restaurants Naritasan, Omotesando has become a popular attraction for both tourists and food lovers alike, and it is conveniently located just a 15 minute walk from the JR Narita Station. Kawatoyo is a well-established shop in Narita, serving grilled eel since 1910. Crowded even on weekdays, part of its popularity is due to the show offered by its chefs working in front of diners. This can be seen in the video as well The skillful maneuvering of tools and knives done on the restaurant's large wooden cutting board, catches the eyes of many tourists, who are impressed by the fascinating sight. Source :YouTube screenshot These are the steps to prepare the eel. Be sure to follow along with the video: 1. Nailing the eel to the board 2. Cutting it open with a knife 3. Gutting it 4. Boning it 5. Slicing it to proper size Because of how difficult it is to perform this procedure both quickly and accurately, apprentices are usually relegated to applying the skewers. Unlike other fish, eels must be killed just before preparing them as their flesh tends to spoil very quickly: so quickly that the speed at which the preparation work is done ends up influencing the taste of the final product. In addition to that, raw eel blood is toxic, and while cooked preparations are safe to eat, handling and preparing the raw product requires great care on the chefs’ part. Some Final Words on Narita Eel Photo：Eel bowl On a normal weekday, the chefs at Kawatoyo prepare a staggering 400 eels for their customers, and this number doubles to a whopping 800 on weekends and holidays. The taste of the grilled eels you can have in this wooden, old fashioned traditional Japanese shop is simply amazing. There are various eel recipes and serving styles in Japanese cuisine: be it rolls, unagi sushi, eel served in traditional wooden boxes or on top of rice bowls. Did you know that grilled eel cooking methods can vary from region to region in Japan? In the East, Kanto-style eels are sliced open from the back, then steamed and only later grilled, making for a richer, more plump texture, while in the West it is more common to have them Kansai-style, following a method that focuses on fragrance and crispness by grilling the eels on their belly directly over a flame. The best you can do is walk your way through Japan and find the style or unagi sauce you like the most. And don’t forget that eels this delicious can only be prepared by skilled, seasoned professionals: do not try this at home! ◆Kawatoyo Honten◆ 【Address】Nakamachi386, Narita, Chiba, Japan,　286-0027 【Access】 By Train　 11 minutes walking from JR Narita station 11 minutes walking from Keisei Narita station By Car: 8.3 km from Narita International Airport (about 20 minutes) 3 km from Aeon Mall Narita (about 10 minutes) 2.5 km from Mega Don Quixote (about 8 minutes) 【Open】10 am to 5 pm (last order) 【Closures】None (subject to change) 【Parking】None 【TEL】0476-22-2711 【Official Website】kawatoyohonten http://www.unagi-kawatoyo.com/foreign/index.html

Bingata - A Traditional Japanese Craft This video, titled "BINGATA – Az okinawai textilfestés," was created by "Teodora Vegh." It introduces Rei Ishida (石田麗), who currently makes Bingata in a workshop in Oita Prefecture (大分県). Bingata is a traditional dyeing technique representative of Okinawa, and is sometimes referred to as "Ryukyu Somemono" (琉球染物). This dyeing technique is used to create beautiful clothing items and accessories which are available for purchase. Check out the video to learn more about the history of this traditional craft and how Bingata products are made! The History of Bingata, A Traditional Japanese Craft Source :YouTube screenshot The Bingata dyeing technique has been used in Okinawa since the 13th century. It's said that this technique was developed to create kimono for the royal family at the time. The kanji characters for "Bingata," which until then was simply written in hiragana, were chosen during the Showa period (1926 AD - 1989 AD). Since the Second World War, Bingata workshops have opened up all over Japan and items are now produced as works of art. How Bingata is Made Source :YouTube screenshot The craftsmen must first design and create a stencil that will be used to apply a motif to the fabric. The stencil is cut out carefully by hand. This process can be seen at 0:40 in the video. Once the stencil is made, a paste is applied on top of the stencil (1:38 in the video) followed by paint to apply color to the material. The brushes used to dye the fabric are often made from human hair. Other dyeing methods such as Tsutsugaki (筒描き) and Aizome (藍染) are often used, as well as the traditional Bingata dyeing technique. After applying color, the fabric is then steamed and soaked in water to remove the paste. The Bingata dyeing process shown in the video is as follows: 1. Design 2. Stencil carving (0:39～) 3. Paste application (1:44～) 4. "Gobiki" (2:36～) 5. Color application (3:05～) 6. "Sumitori" (4:03～) 7. Steaming 8. Soaking 9. Nori paste application 10. Dyeing 11. Steaming 12. Soaking 13. Sewing 14. Finish Purchasing Bingata Dyed Goods Source :YouTube screenshot Bingata fabric is used to create many items such as furoshiki (風呂敷), tapestries, accessories, kimono, yukata, furisode (long-sleeved kimono) and hanhaba obi (half-width obi/kimono sash). The bright, bold coloring of Bingata dyed goods is typical of Okinawa. Bingata items can be purchased in workshops and gift shops around Okinawa and Kyushu. In recent years, the number of Bingata items being sold online has been increasing making it even easier to find and purchase the patterns that suit you best. Summary of Bingata, A Traditional Craft of Okinawa Source :YouTube screenshot Making beautiful Bingata dyed goods like those introduced in the video involves a series of complicated processes. Clothing and accessories made from Bingata dyed fabric make great Japanese souvenirs! Have fun searching for your favorite Bingata goods!

Kei Truck Gardens If you're looking to get a taste of Japanese culture or see some traditional Japanese crafts, then look no further than Kei Truck Gardens! This video will introduce you to the art of Japanese landscaping... in the back of a truck! The video is called "Kei Truck Gardens. Transform the bed of your truck!" (軽トラガーデン　軽トラックの荷台を庭に！). It was created by "yuji kuroda 96TV." It's an interesting video that introduces a unique take on gardening. Probably not very many people have heard of this before, so let's take a look at what it's like! In this article, we'll give you an overview of the Japanese kei truck garden. We will explain the outline of the kei truck garden as well as its appeal. What is a Kei Truck Garden? Source :YouTube screenshot The kei truck garden, a new type of Japanese landscaping, is a unique garden created in the bed of a kei truck. Kei truck gardens started about 10 years ago to increase the publicity of gardening. The unexpectedness of a garden located in a small space in the back of a truck attracted a lot attention, and the gardens received high praise from overseas as well. In addition, the kei truck garden is not only unexpected, but also allows you to move the garden from place to place as is. It also has the advantage of being able to be exhibited at events and contests/shows. These small works of art a definitely worth a watch. Be sure to check them out in the video! How to Make a Kei Truck Garden The charm of the kei truck garden is having the beauty of a Japanese garden condensed into a small space. The gardeners use sand, rocks, pines, and moss to create gardens in the limited space (2m×1.4m). Every detail of the garden is handcrafted by the gardener, and it's hard to believe you can fit it all in the back of a kei truck. The video shows the viewer a variety of beautiful works in different kei trucks. Source :YouTube screenshot You can also see a wide variety of gardens at the regularly scheduled kei truck garden contests. Find different features such as tasteful water dripping landscaping. The Instagram-worthy trucks lined up in a row with their beautiful gardens and flowers makes for an amazing sight. Where Can You Find the Unique Kei Truck Garden Contest? Source :YouTube screenshot The unique kei truck garden contest takes place in many places in Japan. In the past, contests have been held at the World Expo and in Osaka, Toyama, and Shiga. This contest started at the plants event in Toyama in 2011. The Kei Truck Garden Contest was first held in 2011 as part of a greening event in Toyama Prefecture, and has since been held at greening and skills events in various regions across the country, with 2018 and 2019 being held in Akita and Osaka, respectively. More information can be found on the website of the Japan Federation of Landscape Contractors, so if you're interested in the Kei Truck Garden Contest, be sure to check it out. Summary of the Kei Truck Garden We hope that this video has piqued your interest in Japanese gardening. It's quite a unique style of gardening, but it's very interesting what people come up with. The contest, in which gardeners compete for skills, has become a popular event and there was even a show made about it. Be sure to check out the event and find your favorite garden! 【Official Website】Japan Federation of Landscape Contractors https://www.jflc.or.jp/english.php

Video introduction of "Gin no An Osu Shotengai" Taiyaki store in Nagoya City, Aichi Prefecture This video, titled "薄皮たい焼きの作り方 Japanese Pancakes fish shaped TAIYAKI," produced by "Sushi Bomber TV クッキング最前線," shows taiyaki being made at a food stall. This video is a compilation of taiyaki demonstrations at "Gin no An" at Osu Shotengai, a shopping street in Nagoya city (名古屋市: Nagoya-shi, Aichi prefecture (愛知県: Aichi-ken). Taiyaki is a traditional Japanese confectionery in the shape of a fish, and there are many famous shops in Japan that sell the delicious snack. Be sure to watch this video to learn how it's made! The Origin and Types of Taiyaki Photo：Taiyaki In Japan, “Imagawayaki, a round pancake filled with red bean paste, has been eaten since the Edo period (1603-1868). One day, a long established imagawayaki store changed the shape of their pancakes from a round shape to a fish shape. After changing the shape, the snack quite literally sold like hotcakes. The nursery rhyme Oyoge Taiyaki-kun was also a popular song for children in the Showa era. Taiyaki has a long history, and the variety of taiyaki is expanding rapidly, from the more orthodox ones with azuki beans in between, to chocolate taiyaki and even cream taiyaki. How to Make Taiyaki Source :YouTube screenshot Taiyaki are baked from a mixture of ingredients, including flour, baking soda, sugar, and water. The batter is poured into a metal baking mold specially made for taiyaki, followed by a generous amount of sweet bean paste, as shown at 0:45 in the video. When the batter is sufficiently cooked, the two sides of the mold are combined and it is further baked, as shown at 1:27 in the video. This can be a bit difficult to prepare at home, as the average homeowner doesn't have a taiyaki machine available. At 2:46 in the video, you can see the popular croissant taiyaki being made. The cooking process differs from regular taiyaki in that the ingredients are pre-prepared and can be baked as is. Each taiyaki contains about 220 calories and costs around 120-150 yen. Taiyaki is inexpensive and easy to eat, making it a great snack. Summary of Taiyaki Source :YouTube screenshot If you're planning a trip to Japan, we recommend that you taste a variety of Japanese food and sweets to gain a deeper understanding of Japanese culture. there are a number of taiyaki shops, such as Gin no An, all over Japan that offer taiyaki sales demonstrations.> Once you've experienced the artisanal skills of these taiyaki chefs, be sure to try their freshly baked taiyaki! At 3:32 in the video, a customer breaks his taiyaki in half and shows us what's inside... It looks so yummy! ◆Gin no An - Osu Syotengai◆ 【Address】 2-17-20 Osu Naka-Ku Nagoya-shi Aichi ken 460 - 0011　 【Access】A 7-8 minute walk from Osu-Kannon Station on the Nagoya Municipal Subway Maizuru Line 【Hours】[Weekdays ] 11:00 to 20:00, [Weekends and National holidays ] 10:30 to 20:00 Open 7 days a week 【Telephone】052-209-9151 【Parking】None 【Official Website】Gin-no An http://www.ginnoan.com/

Introducing Traditional Japanese Lacquerware and Japanese Food Culture This video, titled “URUSHI - IS JAPAN COOL? WASHOKU - 和食 （漆芸）,” was released by ANA Global Channel. It introduces urushi-e (lacquerware), a traditional Japanese craft, along with amazing arrangements of traditional Japanese cuisine. There are many highly skilled lacquer craftsmen in Japan, and some of them have even been designated as living national treasures (holders of important intangible cultural assets). Japanese ryotei (Japanese-style restaurants) and ryokan (Japanese-style inns) serve Japanese food on lacquered dishes so that guests can enjoy their meals both visually and with regards to flavor. As shown at 6:08 in the video, serving Japanese food on beautiful lacquerware not only looks good, but also helps one enjoy the food. The lacquerware craftswoman featured in the video is a foreign woman who moved to Wajima, famous for its lacquerware, to study the traditional Japanese craft. You can see her passion for Japanese lacquerware as well as a close look at how she makes them. The History and Culture of Lacquerware, a Traditional Japanese Craft Photo：Lacquerware The history of traditional Japanese lacquerware dates back 9,000 years, with lacquered vessels excavated from Jomon Period (14,000 BC to 400 BC) ruins. Lacquer was used to bond and decorate earthenware during the Jomon and Yayoi (ca. 300 B.C. to 250 A.D.) Periods, and since then it has been used for many other purposes, such as vessels and wooden products. In Japan, there are many areas where lacquer is produced as a specialty product. Two examples of this include Wajima-nuri (輪島塗) and Tsugaru-nuri (津軽塗). In Ishikawa Prefecture in particular, there's the Wajima Museum of Lacquer (Urushi) Art that introduces the Japanese culture and production process of Wajima-nuri. A Closer Look at Japan’s Traditional Lacquerware Photo：Lacquerware There are many different types of lacquerware, such as Rantai Shikki (籃胎漆器, lacquerware that uses woven bamboo baskets as a base), Kanshitsu (乾漆, a dry lacquerware technique introduced from Tang China in the Nara Period), and Kinma (蒟醤, lacquerware carved with a blade). Lacquerware is decorated using a variety of techniques, such as maki-e (蒔絵, lacquerware using gold or silver powder), raden (螺鈿, mother-of-pearl inlay), chinking (沈金), hyomon (平文), and more. There are also techniques such as decoration using eggshells, lacquer paintings, Kamakura-bori (鎌倉彫), and engraving. In recent years, lacquerware techniques have been used not only for vessels but also for tools, such as combs, and stationery, such as ballpoint pens. From 8:27 in the video, you can see some lacquerware earrings and other accessories. Summary of Japan’s Traditional Craft - Lacquerware Photo：Lacquerware As shown in the video, there are many beautiful vessels made in Japan that look like works of art. If you want to experience traditional Japanese lacquerware crafting in person, we recommend checking out a class or school certified by the Society for the Preservation of Traditional Japanese Lacquer (漆芸伝承の会認定). Lacquerware features a wide range of products, from those produced by famous artists to more affordable pieces. We recommend purchasing lacquerware from one of the famous lacquerware producing regions of Japan, so that you too can enjoy delicious Japanese cuisine even more!

伝統工芸「箱根寄木細工」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「箱根寄木細工」Japan Hakone Marquetry／伝統工芸 青山スクエア Japan traditional crafts Aoyama Square」です。 日本有数の温泉地として知られている箱根。 箱根で注目しておきたいものは温泉だけではありません。 日本には昔から伝わる伝統的な文化が存在しており、箱根寄木細工もその中の一つ。 箱根寄木細工とは一体どういう伝統工芸なのか 箱根寄木細工は江戸時代後期に誕生した日本の伝統工芸です。 木目や色彩を活かし、素敵な幾何学模様を作り出すのが特徴的。 長年培われた職人の技術により作られています。 駿府の浅間神社建立に集められた職人の技術が箱根寄木細工誕生の起源です。 箱根には箱根寄木細工を取り扱ったお店がいくつも存在します。 観光に訪れた際はお土産に購入してはいかがでしょうか？ 雑貨や家具等、素敵な品物と巡り会えるかもしれません。 箱根寄木細工以外にも様々な伝統工芸や文化が箱根にあります。 箱根寄木細工の制作工程紹介 動画では原料になる木材をはじめとした箱根寄木細工づくりの要点が非常に分かりやすく約4分程度に収められています。 箱根寄木細工の作業方法 ・種木作り ・木地の説明 ・種板作り ・づく作り ・箱根寄木細工の完成 箱根寄木細工に触れる方法 箱根寄木細工について知識を深めるなら体験教室に参加することをおすすめします。 箱根には箱根寄木細工づくりの教室が存在しており、興味のある方はチェックしておきたいところ。 箱根寄木細工に限らず、日本の文化や伝統工芸に関する教室は全国各地に存在します。 伝統工芸づくりの体験をすることも日本観光の楽しみ方の一つです。 職人技のすごさを実感できる箱根寄木細工 関所からくり美術館 箱根にある箱根寄木細工 関所からくり美術館は職人達が作るからくり箱を展示している美術館。 色々なからくり箱を見ることができるので、日本の伝統工芸や文化に興味がある方やパズルやからくり等に興味がある方は観光プランに入れておくと良いかもしれません。 匠の技を実際に体感したい方はからくり箱の工作体験に一度参加することをおすすめします。 箱根寄木細工を販売している浜松屋 浜松屋は箱根で木工芸品を販売しているお店。 2階の工場では実演見学ができ、匠の技をその目で見ることができます。 秘密箱や引き出し、テーブルウェア等、インスタ映えするおしゃれな商品がもりだくさん。通販で商品を購入することも可能です。 箱根寄木細工紹介まとめ 日本の伝統工芸や文化は調べれば調べる程奥が深いです。 どのような文化があるかを知り、実際に触れてみることが大切。 日本観光の際には様々な伝統文化に触れてみてはいかがですか。

Video introduction of the maki-e process of a maki-e artist in Wajima City, Ishikawa Prefecture, Japan! What is Makie? This video, titled "Maki-e Time Lapse ART iPhone 6 Case "Zelkova," Lacquer Application, Wajima Lacquer, Maki-e, Goldfish, How to" (Maki-e time lapse ART iphone６ケース「欅」拭き漆 輪島 蒔絵 金魚 工程 A process), was released by "no to char." It's a promotional video that shows Japan's traditional Maki-e lacquerware process in a timelapse. The video shows how Mitsuru Yamashita, a lacquer artist from Wajima City, Ishikawa, who is famous for producing lacquer, paints a beautiful goldfish on an iPhone case made of zelkova. It looks real enough to swim away! Maki-e, a traditional Japanese craft, is a lacquerware technique, that has been handed down since ancient times in Japan. It's a decorative technique that involves drawing a pattern on lacquerware or wood with lacquer or applying metal powder such as gold, silver, and tin on it before it dries. Lacquer is a natural paint made from the resin of plants of the Anacardiaceae family and has a culture and history of being used in architecture, furniture, stationery, etc. in Japan. Lacquered products are manufactured by division of labor, and the craftsmen who apply the decorative Maki-e designs are called "Maki-e-shi" (蒔絵師). In this video, you can see the techniques of the lacquer artist and the time and process required to make the Maki-e goldfish on the iPhone case. In recent years, "Maki-e" products are seen not only as traditional crafts, but products with Maki-e on ballpoint pens, fountain pens, accessories, stickers, etc. have become common as well. These are objects that can be used daily in modern life and are a way to implement a part of Japanese culture and traditional Japanese crafts into your everyday life. Maki-e, A Traditional Japanese Craft: How It's Made Source :YouTube screenshot In this video, they begin by designing the goldfish, which can be seen from 0:07 in the video, then copying the sketch called an "Okime" on the zelkova iPhone case, applying lacquer with a Maki-e brush, and then sprinkling it with metal powder and then drying it. At the end, they apply "fuki urushi" (wiping lacquer) to the zelkova iPhone case in order to finish it with a beautiful glossy transparent wood grain. You can see the beautiful shining Maki-e design and the finished product, from 1:54 in the video. The finished lacquer gives off a beautiful luster, and you can experience the beauty of traditional Japanese Maki-e and the magnificence of handicrafts in Japanese culture. Maki-e is categorized into several types depending on the process used, including "Hira Maki-e," "Togidashi Maki-e," "Taka Maki-e," and "Shishiai Maki-e." The technique that is seen in the video is "Taka Maki-e" and the lacquer is raised to draw a pattern and express it in a relief shape. The goldfish that rises smoothly from the wood is three-dimensionally expressed by the unevenness of the lacquer, and it is characterized by the deep color of the lacquer that has been applied many times. Summary of Maki-e, A Traditional Craft That Conveys Japanese Culture Source :YouTube screenshot Maki-e is said to have originated in the Heian period (794-1185), and it is an aspect of Japanese culture and traditional crafts with a long history. There are also national treasures that have been made using Maki-e techniques, and it is one traditional craft that should be protected as a traditional technique that conveys Japanese culture. Videos like this, where we can learn about traditional Maki-e techniques and how to use them, are important in passing down the traditional craft to future generations so they may cherish it like their ancestors did before them.

メキシコの日本食料理店「ひよこ」をご紹介 「日本食の魅力を知って、実際に日本のグルメを食べに行きたい」 このように、日本食のことはあまり知らないけど興味はあるという人はいますよね。 寿司や天ぷらなど日本食の有名どころ以外のグルメを知りたいという人もいると思います。 そのような方に、今回はメキシコで焼き鳥などの日本食をたべられる「ひよこ」というお店を紹介します。 この記事では、メキシコで焼き鳥などのグルメを出している「ひよこ」についての説明やメニューの紹介をしたいと思います。 「ひよこ」の「Shigetoshi Narita」が日本食を解説している動画も紹介しているので、気になる方は見てください！ メキシコで焼き鳥や日本食などを楽しめる「ひよこ」とは？ 「ひよこ」とは、メキシコで焼き鳥や日本食などのグルメを楽しめる人気の飲食店です。 職人が食材にこだわり丁寧に調理した焼き鳥や、メキシコ料理のトスターダなどを食べることができ、メキシコ人や日本人、欧米人など、さまざまな人が来店しているそう。 カウンター席のみのお店ですが、予約ができるようなので気になる方は予約してから来店してみてください。 メキシコで焼き鳥や日本食などを楽しめる「ひよこ」のメニュー メキシコで焼き鳥などのグルメを楽しめる「ひよこ」にはさまざまなメニューがあります。 まずは、焼き鳥。ネギマやモモ、ハツ、手羽などを串にさし備長炭で焼き上げていきます。 炭火焼きの焼き鳥はとてもカリっとしていて美味しいですよね。 他にも、和牛やバラ肉、野菜、ラムチョップを備長炭で焼いた料理や、メキシコ料理のトスターダと日本食をあわせた料理などさまざまなオリジナルメニューがありグルメにはたまらないお店。 「ひよこ」は、和食とメキシコ料理を楽しめる名店です。 メキシコで美味しいグルメを出している「Shigetoshi Narita」 メキシコで日本食などのグルメを楽しめる「ひよこ」の板前さんが「Shigetoshi Narita」です。 鶏肉の部位や食材にこだわり調理し、美味しい日本食やメキシコ料理を提供しています。 「Shigetoshi Narita」のトスターダはタピオカで作っています。 作り方はタピオカを弱火でじっくり煮込み、イカ墨で色付けしていきます。 そこから3日かけて乾燥させてオーダーが入ったら油で揚げて調理します。 つくねはひき肉、青ネギ、ショウガ、醤油、たまご、玉ねぎなどを使って調理します。 タレで味付けしたシンプルなつくねです。 メキシコのおすすめグルメ店である「ひよこ」の動画はこちら 「Eater」 が制作する「ひよこ」の板前さんの「Shigetoshi Narita」のインタビュー動画がおすすめです。 こちらの動画は「Shigetoshi Narita」の日本食やメキシコ料理のこだわりを解説していて、とても興味深い動画になっています。 メキシコ料理と和食を楽しめる珍しいお店の「ひよこ」日本食に興味がある人にはおすすめできるお店です。

Aizu Misato-cho, Onuma-gun, Fukushima Prefecture "Production of Aizu Hongo Pottery" Video Introduction This video, titled "【会津本郷焼】継承されていく伝統と歴史 /【Aizu Hongouyaki】The tradition and history that are passed down for generations," was created by "Aizu-Hongo Ware Association" (会津本郷焼組合). The video introduces the history and crafting process of the Aizu area's traditional craft, Aizu-hongo Ware. The video is only 3 minutes long, so for those interested in Japanese traditional culture, how pottery is made, or just want to admire some beautiful works of art, definitely check it out! The History of Aizu-Hongo Ware Source :YouTube screenshot Aizu-Hongo Ware originates from the town Aizumisato, near Aizu-Wakamatsu Castle in Fukushima Prefecture in the Tohoku region of Japan. Aizu-Hongo Ware was already being created by the 16th century, leading to it being known as the oldest pottery tradition in Japan's Tohoku region. The pottery pieces are made using high-quality Okubo clay. The clay used for decorating the pieces is also made from materials gathered in the region. This is one of the special characteristics of Aizu-Hongo Ware. Aizu-Hongo Ware is created through traditional methods involving the use of a potter’s wheel, as shown from 1:19 in the video. The high quality and exquisite beauty of the pieces has led to Aizu-Hongo Ware being designated a Traditional Craft of Japan. How To Create Aizu-Hongo Ware Source :YouTube screenshot There are many kilns for making Aizu-Hongo Ware in the Aizu region. The pieces created by the Kamomoto craftsmen are beautiful enough to be called works of art. In the Aizu region, there are many pottery classes and pottery-making experiences available. Through creating Aizu-Hongo Ware, you'll gain a deeper understanding of Japanese culture. Besides visiting the Aizu region itself, you can also purchase pottery pieces online. As shown from 2:26 in the video, there are various types of products that can be used in daily life, such as mugs, bowls, coffee cups, Japanese teacups and more. Be sure to check them out if you're interested. Summary of Aizu-Hongo Ware Source :YouTube screenshot Aizu-Hongo Ware is a deep-rooted tradition of the Aizu region, with a long, rich history. If you have the chance to visit Aizumisato, not only can you learn more about this traditional craft, but you can also view the beautiful Japanese landscapes of the region. Immerse yourself in Japanese culture through Aizu-Hongo Ware!

Suruga Bamboo Sen-suji-zaiku, a Traditional Craft, Video Introduction of Craftsmanship in Shizuoka City, Shizuoka Prefecture This is a promotional video for Suruga Take Sensuji Zaiku (Suruga Bamboo Ware), created by Aoyama Square, a shop specializing in traditional Japanese crafts. Suruga Bamboo Ware is a traditional craft made from bamboo stems. Created using professional techniques whereby the craftsman creates flower vases, bug cages, and handbags by assembling thin strips cut from bamboo stems. In recent years, it has become popular with more modern items, such as bags and wind chimes. Today, we'll introduce in detail the highly valued traditional Japanese craft, Suruga Bamboo Ware. Be sure to follow along with the video! The History of Suruga Bamboo Ware ©SUN Modifying Due to rich bamboo resources, bamboo crafts were commonly used in daily life from olden times in the Suruga area, in Shizuoka prefecture. The origin of the craft is rooted in ancient history. Bamboo products like baskets and cages have been excavated from Toro ruins in this area, major ruins of the Yayoi period. In the Edo period, bamboo crafts established a position as side jobs for samurai. After retiring from the shogunate, Tokugawa Ieyasu lived in Sunpu Castle, and a local culture of bamboo craftsmen was established in the Suruga area. Suruga Bamboo Ware was recognized as national traditional craft by the Ministry of International Trade and Industry in 1976. How Suruga Bamboo Ware Is Made Source :YouTube screenshot The production process of Suruga Bamboo Ware is divided into 4 parts: Measuring and cutting bamboo, Bending, Weaving, and Assembly. Japanese timber bamboo (Madake) or Moso bamboo (Mosochiku) are used as materials, and strips are cut from their stalks. Flat strips are used for bamboo crafts in other areas, but Suruga Bamboo Ware uses round cut strips. They are made using a unique technique that involves bending the strips into round shapes and connecting them through weaving. The distinctive feature of Suruga Bamboo Ware is that all processes, from the cutting and measuring of bamboo to the finishing touches, are done by a single craftsman. A more detailed process is shown in the video at 0:25. Please enjoy the techniques of Suruga Bamboo Ware craftsman, Takahide Sugiyama. Suruga Bamboo Ware Products Source :YouTube screenshot There are many different Suruga Bamboo Ware products; snack trays, which are great for hosting guests, flower vases, tea cup saucers, small pouches, lightings such as lanterns and lamps, wind chimes/desktop wind bells, bug cages, and more. Beautiful Japanese style handbags are also popular. These products can be purchased on amazon and Japan’s major online retailer, Rakuten. Prices range from several thousands to several tens of thousands of Japanese yen (tens to hundreds of dollars), depending on the product. Summary of Suruga Bamboo Ware As introduced in the video, Suruga Bamboo Ware is traditional Japanese craft handmade by a single artisan. If you're looking to take in some Japanese culture in your daily life, we recommend purchasing some Suruga Bamboo Ware products. They make great souvenirs and gifts as well. 【Official website】Suruga Bamboo Ware "Shizuoka Bamboo-crafts Cooperative" http://www.takesensuji.jp/?mode=f8 【Official website】Japan Traditional Crafts Aoyama Square https://kougeihin.jp/en/

Video introduction of the craftsmanship of a female dyeing artist in Kyoto, Japan Source :YouTube screenshot ANA Global Channel aired the video "Artisan of traditional dyeing/Interview - IS JAPAN COOL? CRAFTSMANSHIP" (Artisan of traditional dyeing／Interview - IS JAPAN COOL? CRAFTSMANSHIP（染織家）) featuring female artisan Sarasa Yoshioka. Dyeing and weaving originated in China, India, Rome and Greece, and was introduced to Japan in the 3rd century AD. In the video (2:35), Yoshioka says that the technique is mentioned in the old text "Manyoshu" and the "Engishiki" (a Japanese book about laws and customs) which were both completed during the Heian period (794-1185). The Engishiki documented the ancient dyeing recipes. Having been designated as Intangible Cultural Property, dyeing and weaving technique and textiles such as Kimono and Obi are the important traditional crafts. In this video, female artisan Sarasa Yoshioka, talks about the history of dyeing, a traditional Japanese craft, and her passion for it. It also captures her superior artisanal skills. Magical Patterns Hand-Dyed by Artisans Source :YouTube screenshot There are two main types of dyeing and weaving: Sakizome- in which yarns are dyed first and then woven, and Atozome- in which the cloth is dyed after it is woven. The former is represented by these Kimono makers in the form of Yu-kitsumugi, Nishijin, and Nishikiori. Examples of the latter include Kyo-yu-zen and Kagayu-zen which are known for the splendid picturesque patterns. Sakizome requires a higher skill level than Atozome, and thus Sakizome textiles cost more. The Methods and Materials of Traditional Japanese Dyeing and Weaving Colors are most commonly extracted from plant sources such as roots, tree bark, and nuts. Yoshioka says the plants that are hard to grow are typically supplied by contracted experts (2:08). Indigo dye is one of the oldest and most common dyes to be used for textile dying. Since Indigo has antibacterial and insect repellent effects, it is thought that people wore indigo dyed clothing to keep insects and infections away. The Role of Dyers and Their Delicate Craftsmanship Source :YouTube screenshot The Heian period (794-1185) was the peak of the Japanese Imperial court and aristocratic culture. The garments wore by the upper classes were made by dyeing and weaving artisans. For this reason, dye artisans at that time held a high position in Japan's hierarchical society. The garments wore by the present day Emperor and Empress in the court functions are still made using this traditional technique. These formal court dresses, such as Sokutai and Junihitoe, can only be handmade since the delicate weaving cannot be done by machines. Automated weaving machines were imported to Japan during the Meiji period (1868-1912) and silk textiles were designated as a main industry. Being inferior to the Great Powers in the heavy industries, Japan relied on the techniques of the dyeing and weaving artisans to acquire foreign currency, with the aim of becoming a member of the Great Powers. The Future of Dyeing and Weaving The dyeing and weaving industry, which is both time and labor intensive, has been on the decline for quite some time. Today, however, the increasing number of universities or fashion design schools integrate it in the school curriculum in order to prevent the traditional craft from dying out. The number of young people apprenticed to a dyeing and weaving artisan is also increasing little by little. Kimono, obi, tenugui and other textile products are popular as souvenirs of Japan's overseas markets, and the more opportunities there are for dyed fabric weavers to play an active role, the more likely they are to pass on this traditional Japanese craft to future generations. Traditional Dyeing and Weaving: An Academic Point of View Photo：Dyed goods You may imagine that dyeing and weaving is mainly based on tough outdoor work, but it is also an embodiment of highly developed chemistry. As seen in the video, the majority of plant dyes requires the use of mordant such as vinegar or natural alum to enhance and fix the color in the textile fibers. In other words, dyers obtain the brilliant colors through chemical reactions between the materials. Dye artisans imagine the final product before they even begin. "The color we want to achieve is decided from the beginning, and we use our experience and sense to adjust the color closer to the desired color" says Yoshioka (7:05). In order to achieve the client's desired color, the weavers use all of their wisdom as artisans. Yoshioka says that obtaining the color desired by clients is "a mission given to dye artisans" (7:47). It is not only fabrics, yarns of silk, linen and cotton she dyes, but also washi papers. Every year, she spends the winter months dyeing papers to dedicate to the Buddhist ceremony held at To-daiji Temple in Nara prefecture (5:58). Summary of Japanese Traditional Dyeing and Weaving The video features a dyeing and weaving artisan, Sarasa Yoshioka who works in the Kyoto-based atelier "Somenotsukasa Yoshioka." Sticking to the traditions, the atelier uses only plants dyes and the traditional dyeing method. Dyestuffs are soaked and simmered in the pure spring water of Fushimi (a district in Kyoto), pumped up from 100 meters underground. In this method, a variety of colors and shades can be obtained with the same dye, and the delicacy of dyed fabric is beautiful. In this article, we introduced the history of dyeing, its production methods, origins, and the raw materials used, alongside the interview with craftswoman, Sarasa Yoshioka. In the video, you can see and hear more of what she has to say and also take a look at her technique. Be sure to check it out! Traditional Japanese textiles are available online at retailers such as amazon or rakuten. Using the traditional crafts will lead you to appreciate the value of the traditional craft, as well as the skills of its artisans. 【Official Website】Somenotsukasa Yoshioka https://www.textiles-yoshioka.com/eng/

Promotional Video Introduction of Izumi Dragonfly Ball Craftsman in Izumi, Osaka This video, titled "#118 Izumi Tombodama Craftswoman – Matsuda Yuki - Door to Tomorrow by At Home" (#118 和泉蜻蛉玉職人 松田 有綺 | 明日への扉 by アットホーム) by "Door to Tomorrow by At Home," is from a television program broadcast on tv in July, 2019. This 20-minute long video was originally broadcast in four parts and we highly recommend watching it if you're interested in any of the following: ・Learning more about the restoration of the national treasures of Byodoin Temple in Kyoto. ・Gaining insight into how traditional Japanese glass beads ("Tombodama") are made. ・Learning more about the Izumi Tombodama craftsman who is working hard to preserve Japanese culture. Yuki Matsuda (松田有綺), the craftswoman featured in the video, continues to work hard acquire the skills necessary to pass on Japanese culture to future generations. You can see Yuki Matsuda from 1:31 in the video. In this article, we'll go over how Japan's Tombodama are made and how the Tombodama found in Kyoto's Byodoin Temple have been restored, alongside the video. Restoring the National Treasures of Kyoto's Byodoin Temple Source :YouTube screenshot The glass beads found in the base of the wooden Amitabha statue found in Byodoin Temple's Hoodo hall (鳳凰堂) were part of a decoration called a "Yoraku" (瓔珞) that used to hang in the area surrounding the Buddha statue. You can see the beautiful glass beads from 0:58 in the video. They are thought to have been made in the same workshop as the items stored in Shosoin (正倉院), athe treasure house of Todaiji Temple in Nara. The beads of the Yoraku decoration mentioned above were restored by Osaka craftswomen Yuriko Matsuda (松田有利子). You can take a look at the restored glass beads at 1:32 in the video. The glass stored in the Sangetsu Kobo Workshop (山月工房) were found to be similar in composition to the glass glass beads from Kyoto, which have been designated national treasures, and was therefore used in the restoration project. How are Izumi Tanbodama Glass Beads Made? Source :YouTube screenshot First, the glass is heated and stretched into long threads which are then broken into smaller pieces to create the glass used to decorate the beads. The glass bead making process is as follows: ・A metal rod coated with a stripping agent (剥離剤) is heated ・Several glass rods are then heated together ・The softened glass rods are then wrapped around the metal rod ・Small pieces of broken glass are then attached to create a particular design ・A tool is used to manipulate the shape of the glass and create a design on the outside of the bead ・The finished bead is cooled by covering it in ash You can watch the whole process from 6:52 in the video as Izumi Tanbodama craftswoman Yuki Matsuda demonstrates how the glass beads are made from start to finish. Izumi Tanbodama Items Available For Purchase Source :YouTube screenshot Jewelry such as necklaces and bracelets as well as traditional Japanese clothing items and accessories like Obidome (帯留め, obi sash clips), Kanzashi (簪) and Netsuke straps (根付ストラップ) are just some of the glass bead items available for purchase. There are also items made from glass similar to that of the glass beads found in Byodoin Temple in Kyoto, with prices varying depending on the method used to make the beads. For example, an incense holder made from glass similar to that of the National Treasures in Kyoto costs around 5000 yen. Summary of Izumi Tanbodama Glass Beads Photo：Byodoin Temple's Phoenix Hall, Kyoto From 16:12 in the video, you can watch the craftswomen as they visit Byodoin Temple in Kyoto to take a look at the National Treasures they themselves restored. Yuki Matsuda speaks of how she hopes to use her craft to create not only beautiful objects, but memories to go with those objects. If you are interested in Japanese culture or wish to know more about how Izumi Tombodama are made, we highly recommend you watch the video!

1000年以上も続く伝統文化「刀鍛冶」 こちらの動画は「redbowkk9600」が公開した、兵庫県篠山市で日本刀の制作している藤井啓介さんが日本刀を鍛錬する様子を収めた「日本刀鍛錬　katana making(1)」だ。 古くは約1000年前の平安時代から使われてきた日本固有の武器「日本刀」。 世界的にも有名なこの武器は、切ることに特化しており、その性能は他の武器の追随を許さないほどだ。 現代の平和な日本において日本刀が武器として使われることはない。 しかし日本刀には、武器としての性能以上に伝統工芸品としての美しさがある。 刀鍛冶の職人が作った日本刀は、まさに芸術品だ。 伝統工芸品である日本刀を作る職人（刀匠）は、減少傾向にある。 これは日本刀自体が高価で需要が少ないこともあるが、刀鍛冶としての技術を継承することが非常に難しいことが主な原因だ。 刀鍛冶になり、日本伝統の継承者になろうと思っても最低5年の修行期間を経て、やっと本格的な日本刀の鍛錬ができるようになる。 鋭い切れ味と強靱な刀身を実現する日本刀の原料とは？ 日本刀が他の刃物と大きく違う点は原材料にある。 伝統工芸品である日本刀は「玉鋼（たまはがね）」と呼ばれる良質な鋼でできている。 この「玉鋼」は現在は日本刀の原材料でしか使われておらず、「たたら製鉄」という特有の製鉄法で製錬される。 「玉鋼」は普通の鋼と比較すると不純物が少ないので非常に美しくあり、また加工しやすく割れにくいという特徴がある。 「玉鋼」はまさに、日本刀のために製錬された鉱物なのだ。 また日本の歴史の中で太刀や短刀などさまざまな刀長の種類の日本刀が作られたが、いずれも「玉鋼」を原料にしたものが重宝されてきた。 匠の技による日本刀の意外な作刀法 日本刀が伝統工芸品として高価で取引されている理由は、一振り一振りが職人の手によって鍛錬されているからだ。 日本刀の鍛錬は機械では真似できず、職人が受け継いできた技術により丁寧に鍛錬していくしかない。 一振りの日本刀を鍛錬し完成させるためには約2週間かかる。 日本刀の鍛錬は鋼を高温で熱し、細長い形にするという単純な作り方ではない。 日本刀の鍛錬の特徴は、高温に熱し加工しやすくした「玉鋼」を何度も折り返し重ねることだ。この折り返しは10回から12回繰り返す。 この手間のかかる工程と技法を行うことで、不純物の少ない「玉鋼」からさらに不純物を取り除くことができ、さらに日本刀の仕上がりも丈夫なものができる。 「刀鍛冶」紹介まとめ 日本刀は日本の伝統工芸品の中でも非常に歴史が深く、美術品として誰もが認める美しさをもっている。 現在では日本刀の鍛錬の様子を見学させてもらえる鍛冶場も多く存在する。間近で職人が刀を鍛錬する様子はまさに圧巻だ。 また、伝統工芸作品として登録された日本刀はだれでも購入することができる。 美術品として気になる方は、専門店に行くとさまざまな日本刀を見ることができるのでオススメだ。

Check out This Video Introducing Uetsu Shinafu, a Traditional Japanese Crafts! This video, titled "Handmade Crafts "Uetsu Shinafu Weaving" / Japan Traditional Crafts Aoyama Square," introduces uetsu shinafu. The video was uploaded by Traditional Crafts Aoyama Square. Uetsu shinafu fabric is the oldest fabric in Japan woven using tree bark fibers. They were first created during the Jomon period (14,000 BC to 400 BC), and are counted as one of Japan's Three Ancient Woven Fabrics. Today, uetsu shinafu is produced in Tsuruoka, Yamagata Prefecture, the Sekigawa District of Uzen, as well as Murakami, Niigata Prefecture. In 2005, these uetsu shinafu products were designated Traditional Crafts by the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Information. In this video, the production process of uetsu shinafu is introduced in detail. Do enjoy this video showing a tradition of Japan from days past. What Is Uetsu Shinafu? Introducing the Production Process and Methods Used to Make Them Source :YouTube screenshot The raw material of uetsu shinafu is bark derived from the Japanese Linden Tree, as shown from 0:33 in the video, with other sources being the bark of the, tilia maximowicziana, as well as the tilia noziricola. Firstly, the bark is peeled and dried, then boiled in water containing wood ash. Next, as shown in the video, the fibers are scrubbed in a river then dried once more. Following that, the fibers are shredded by hand into thin threads in a process called shinasaki. These threads are then joined to form one long thread in a process called shinaumi. Then, the threads are twisted into a spool and called shinayori . The skill of the craftsman is critical in this entire process, as it is all done by hand. Lastly, the threads are placed on a platform known as the uttate, and the threads are then reeled (3:26). Finally, the threads are woven into a piece of fabric. Where Can You Purchase Uetsu Shinafu Products? Source :YouTube screenshot From 4:19 in the video, works created using uetsu shinafu fabric are introduced. Different kinds of bags, decorative items such as tapestries, name card holders, wallets, obi sashes, hats, fabric dividers – there is a wide variety of products. Besides tourist areas in Yamagata Prefecture, uetsu shinafu products can also be purchased through mail order. As for those who would like to try their hand at uetsu shinafu, the Uetsu Shinafu Promotion Council (振興協議会), the Shinaori Center (織センター), or Sekigawa Shinaori Village (関川しな織の里ぬくもり館) are all places you can visit. Summary of Uetsu Shinafu Source :YouTube screenshot Uetsu shinafu: exquisite works of art with a pleasant texture. Isn’t it unbelievable that its origins date back to the Jomon period thousands of years ago? As shown in the video, uetsu shinafu fabric is created through a complicated process, with the craftsmen ensuring that every single step is done to the best of their ability. Thus, uetsu shinafu products can be used for a long time. If this video has you interested in uetsu shinafu, do take the opportunity to purchase an uetsu shinafu product or try an uetsu shinafu experience in Japan! 【Official Website】Uetsu Shinafu Promotion Council Yamagata Prefecture-Tsuruoka City・Niigata Prefecture-Murakami City, Ancient Fabrics Village http://shinafu.jp/