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Video article 6:48
Inuyama Castle: One of Just 5 Castle Towers in Japan Considered a National Treasure. Come and Be Immersed in Japan's Rich History in Aichi Prefecture!
History Travel- 117 plays
- YouTube
Inuyama Castle: A National Treasure. It’s History and Background The video "The National Treasure Inuyama Castle" (国宝犬山城 National Treasure Inuyama Castle) was produced by "SouthernValleyDiary." The national treasure Inuyama Castle was constructed in 1537 during the Muromachi Period (1336-1573), and it uses a structure implemented in some of Japan’s oldest castle towers. It was built in Inuyama City, Aichi Prefecture in Japan's Tokai region. It is popularly known as Hakutei Castle and not only can you see the castle town, but you also get a view of the majestic Mt. Igiyama and the entire Inuyama region from the castle tower built on the banks of the Kiso River. Photo:Aichi prefecture / Inuyama Castle It was Oda Nobunaga's uncle, Oda Nobuyasu, who built the national treasure Inuyama Castle. Later, in 1617, during the Edo Period (1603-1868), improvements were made to the castle towers by Naruse Masashige and it became what we know it as today. Naruse remained as the castle lord until the end of the Edo Period. Due to the establishment of prefectures in place of feudal domains, everything other than the castle tower was demolished. The castle suffered through some natural disasters such as earthquakes, however, through reconstruction, it was designated as a national treasure in the 10th year of the Showa period (1935). Also, due to revisions in the National Treasure regulations in the 1952, the castle was once again designated as a national treasure. Although it was once famous as a privately-owned castle, it is presently owned by the Inuyama Castle Hakutei Bunko foundation. The castle tower has a 3-tier exterior, including 4 interior floors, and 2 basement floors. Recently, the Shachihoko (an imaginary creature with a carp body and a tiger head) roof ornament was repaired and the castle's symbol was resurrected. Inuyama Castle, One of the Few Existing Castle Towers Designated as a National Treasure Source :YouTube screenshot Of the 200 castles that you can see in Japan, there are only 12 castle towers that exist from before the Edo period and that are still standing to this day. They are called the 12 Existing Castle Towers and the national treasure Inuyama Castle is one of them. Also, the 5 castle towers in Japan designated a national treasure are called the 5 National Treasure Castles and they consist of Himeji Castle, Matsumoto Castle, Hikone Castle, Matsue Castle, and of course, Inuyama Castle. The revered national treasure Inuyama Castle can be seen from 3:39 in the video. The treasured castle tower, the connecting smaller watch tower built on the stone wall, and the interior of the castle tower can be seen in the footage as well. Inuyama Castle and Places to Visit Nearby Source :YouTube screenshot On the eastern side of Inuyama Castle's castle tower, there was once a giant cedar tree. Unfortunately the tree is now dead, but it is revered as the sacred tree "Osugi-sama." The Inuyama Castle ruins are also designated as a national historic site. Some popular locations to visit near the castle are the gourmet restaurants and cafes that retain the traditional machiya (townhouse) ambience. Inuyama Castle Town can be seen from the beginning of the footage, and old, irreplaceable townhouses can be seen here as well. There are many restaurants selling soba/udon, ice cream, and gohei mochi (a type of sticky rice cake), so you will be able to enjoy seeing the sights while munching on a snack and walking around. Also, the building that once housed a famous kimono merchant, the Former Isobe Family Residence, still exists in its original state and is open to the public. The footage of the Former Isobe Family Residence can be seen from 0:18 in the video. Source :Youtube screenshot Near Inuyama Castle is the Inuyama City Museum of Cultural History, along with the Karakuri Museum, and the Castle and Town Museum. There you will be able to experience the rich history of Inuyama Castle. From 1:28 in the video, the display of the Karakuri dolls that were once used during the Inuyama Festival can be seen at the Karakuri Museum. At the Inuyama Cultural History Museum seen from 1:56, the castle town and Yama floats from the Inuyama Festival are shown, as well as a detailed diorama of Inuyama Castle, and the shachihoko. It's a 15-minute walk from Meitetsu Inuyama station and admission is only ¥100, so we definitely recommend visiting if you're going to the castle. A famous shortcut to Inuyama Castle is Sanko Inari Shrine which can be seen from 2:49 in the video. If you go through the numerous red Torii gates, you'll be overwhelmed by the sacred atmosphere. The heart shaped Ema (wishing plaques) are perfect for wishing for matchmaking and harmonious marriages, so this is a spot you should stop by if you're looking for love! There's a parking lot here as well, so if you plan on going by car, we recommend checking out the details of the parking lot. Summary of Inuyama Castle Source :YouTube screenshot What did you think? Out of the many castles Japan can be proud of, there are only 5 designated as national treasures, and the national treasure Inuyama Castle is definitely worth the visit. Experience firsthand, the castles that Japan proudly presents to the world! ◆National Treasure Inuyama Castle|Facility Overview◆ 【Address】65-2 Inuyama Kita Koken, Inuyama City, Aichi Prefecture 484-0082 【Access】About 15 minutes on foot the Meitetsu Inuyama Yuen Station 【Admission Fee】Adults ¥550、Elementary and junior high school students ¥110 (※As of April 2020) 【Hours】9:00~17:00 【Closures】End of the year 【Parking】Parking lots in the vicinity (Fee required) 【Telephone】0568-61-1711 【Tripadvisor】Inuyama Castle https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g325580-d320121-Reviews- Inuyama_Castle-Inuyama_Aichi_Prefecture_Tokai_Chubu.html -
Video article 3:13
Kyoto's Shimogamo Shrine Is Full of Highlights! From Ponds Said To Be the Birthplace of Famous Japanese Sweets, To Tadasu no Mori, a Famous Power Spot! Enjoy the Solemn Atmosphere of the Shrine in This Video!
Art & Architecture- 97 plays
- YouTube
Introducing Shimogamo Shrine in Kyoto! This video, titled "Kyoto Shimogamo Shrine Kyoto Japan" (京都・下鴨神社 Kyoto Japan), was released by "Kyoto 4K Video KYOTO VIDEOS" (京都・下鴨神社 Kyoto Japan). It showcases the beautiful scenery of Shimogamo Shrine, a World Heritage Site in Kyoto. The majestic atmosphere of the grounds is great for taking Instagram pictures! The historic Shimogamo Shrine has been selected as a World Heritage Site under "Historic Monuments of Ancient Kyoto" by UNESCO. A Closer Look at Kyoto's Shimogamo Shrine Photo:Romon Gate, Shimogamo Shrine, Kyoto Formally known as Kamo-mioya Shrine, Shimogamo Shrine is located in Kyoto City's Sakyo Ward. Kamo-betsurai Shrine (Kamigamo Shrine) and Shimogamo Shrine are ancient shrines that originate from the deity that descended upon Mt. Mikage during the reign of Emperor Jimmu. There is a record detailing the repair of the tamagaki (a fence surrounding a shrine) in 148 BC, and it is believed that it was built sometime during this period. Tamayori-hime is enshrined in the eastern hall, and Kamotake-tsunumi is enshrined in the western hall. Highlights of Kyoto's Shimogamo Shrine Photo:Sazare-Ishi at Shimogamo Shrine, Kyoto Tadasu no Mori, the shrine's forest, offers a gorgeous view of nature during late spring/early summer and the autumn foliage is breathtaking during the fall. Near the tower gate, there are landmarks, such as Aioi-sha Shrine and "Sazare-Ishi" which can be seen from 0:38 in the video. Be sure to take a look at the red bridge over the Mitarashi River near the main hall, as well as the Korin plum blossoms, and Koto Shrine, where the 12 animals of the zodiac are enshrined. It's also said that Shimogamo Shrine brings good luck in relationships and marriage. If you're looking for souvenirs, be sure to check out the amulets, shuin stamps, and ema (small wooden plaques on which Shinto worshippers write their prayers or wishes), and don't forget to draw a fortune slip! Fun and Exciting Events Held at Kyoto's Shimogamo Shrine! Photo:The Aoi Matsuri at Shimogamo Shrine, Kyoto When it comes to events at Shimogamo Shrine, the Aoi Matsuri (Aoi Matsuri) in May is by far the most popular and well known festival. The Aoi Matsuri is one of the three major festivals of Kyoto, with an elegant procession that recreates the customs of the imperial court and makes its way from the Kyoto Imperial Palace to Shimogamo Shrine and Kamigamo Shrine. During the festival, a yabusame (horseback archery) ritual is also held in Tadasu-no-Mori. Mitarashi-sha (Inouesha), shown from 2:22 in the video, is said to be the birthplace of Mitarashi dango, and an event called the Mitarashi Festival is held in the summer. Also, there are times when a light festival by teamlab, is held on the grounds of the shrine and in Tadasu-no-Mori. There are also a variety of other events, such as Kemari Hajime and Hina Nagashi. Summary of Kyoto's Shimogamo Shrine Photo:Shimogamo Shrine, Kyoto Shimogamo Shrine, with its quaint atmosphere, is one of the most popular spots in Kyoto and is ideal for those traveling alone. If you're lucky, you may even get the chance to see a wedding ceremony on the shrine grounds. If you're going on a sightseeing trip around Kyoto, be sure to stop by Shimogamo Shrine! ◆Shimogamo Shrine|Facility Overview◆ 【Address】59 Shimogamo Izumikawa-cho, Sakyo-ku, Kyoto City, Kyoto Prefecture 【Access】A 12-minute walk from Keihan Demachiyanagi Station, take the City Bus from Kyoto Station and it's a short walk from the Tadasu-no-Mori-mae/Shimogamo-jinjya-mae bus stops. 【Hours】6:30 - 17:00 【Admission fee】Free 【Parking】Available 【Telephone】075-781-0010 【Official Website】Shimogamo Shrine|Kamo-mioya Shrine https://www.shimogamo-jinja.or.jp/english/ 【Tripadvisor】Shimogamo Shrine https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g298564-d1198391-Reviews-Shimogamo_Jinja-Kyoto_Kyoto_Prefecture_Kinki.html -
Video article 3:21
The Pure White Walls and Tiles of Kanazawa Castle Are Absolutely Gorgeous! A Look at the Castle Where You Can Learn About the Culture of Kaga Hyakumangoku in Kanazawa, Ishikawa!
Art & Architecture History- 58 plays
- YouTube
Introducing Kanazawa Castle This video, titled "Ishikawa Kanazawa Castle - 金沢城 - 4K Ultra HD" introduces information about Kanazawa castle in Ishikawa Prefecture. The video was published by "TokyoStreetView - Japan The Beautiful." Kanazawa castle is one of the most popular tourist spots in the Hokuriku Region. At Kanazawa castle, you can learn about the history of Ishikawa, Kanazawa, a place known as a prosperous castle town in Kaga Hyakumangoku. Kaga Hyakumangoku refers to the measure of wealth the Kaga region attained during the early rule of the Maeda clan and the artisan culture they promoted over the following three centuries. The video shows the beautiful Kanazawa castle, a national historical site. In the article, we'll talk about Kanazawa castle alongside the video. Try to keep up! What is Kanazawa Castle? Photo:Kanazawa Castle Park in Kanazawa, Ishikawa Prefecture Kanazawa castle is located in Marunouchi, Kanazawa, in Ishikawa prefecture (Formerly Kaga province, Ishikawa-gun, Kaganokuni). It was built on the Kodatsuno Plateau between the Saigawa River and the Asano River, which flows through the Kanazawa plains. During Edo period (1603-1868), Kanazawa castle prospered as a castle town of Kaga Hyakumangoku and was used as a residence of the Maeda clan, the head of the Kaga domain. Today, the area around the castle, including the ruins of Kanazawa Castle, a national historic site, has been developed into Kanazawa Castle Park, and is one of Kanazawa's most popular tourist attractions. Kanazawa castle was constructed from the Warring States period (1467-1615) to the Edo period and is classified as a hilltop castle with a teikakushiki layout. It has a distinctive exterior with white walls made of white mortar and flat lead tiles. The beautiful white roof tiles of Kanazawa Castle can be seen at 0:04 in the video. Hashizume mon (gate) is the highlight of Kanazawa castle. Although it was burned down in 1881, it was restored to its former glory in 2015. Be sure to check out the interesting shapes of the rocks used in the stone walls at different gates. There so many interesting spots in Kanazawa park! The castle tower was destroyed by lightning three years after Toshiie Maeda became lord of the castle after the Battle of Shizugatake. There was a plan to restore the castle tower, but due to a lack of resources, it was difficult to do so. Tour Information for Kanazawa Castle Photo:Kanazawa Castle Park in Kanazawa, Ishikawa Prefecture Kanazawa castle is open year round. Between March 1st and October 15th it's open from 7 am to 6 pm and from October 16th to the end of February it's open from 8 am to 5 pm. Admission to Kanazawa Castle is free, but there are charges to enter Hishigaya Turret, Gojukken Nagaya Warehouse, Hashizume-mon, and the Tsuzuki Yagura Turret. The admission fees for these places are 320 yen for adults and 100 yen for children. Access is about 10 minutes by taxi from Kanazawa Station. By car, it takes about 30 minutes from the Kanazawa West IC (金沢西IC) on the Hokuriku Expressway. There are 3 different parking areas near Kanazawa castle. The illumination of Kanazawa Castle and Kenrokuen is a popular seasonal event. During this time, Kenrokuen will be open to the public free of charge at night and is lit up for a limited time. The autumn foliage and the fantastic scenery of lights are must-sees. Summary of Kanazawa castle. Photo:Kanazawa Castle Park in Kanazawa, Ishikawa Prefecture The video in this article introduces the beautiful scenery of Kanazawa castle. There is so much to see at Kanazawa Castle Park. Kenrokuen is known as one of the three greatest gardens of Japan, and is a place where you can enjoy the view of a traditional Japanese garden. You can also collect a stamp from Kanazawa castle if you have a stamp book. It's a great place for history buffs as well! 【Official Website】Kanazawa castle and Kenrokuen - Ishikawa http://www.pref.ishikawa.jp/siro-niwa/english/top.html 【Tripadvisor】Kanazawa castle https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g298115-d324909-Reviews-Kanazawa_Castle-Kanazawa_Ishikawa_Prefecture_Hokuriku_Chubu.html -
Video article 3:35
Matsue Castle - Designated as a National Treasure This Castle Is One of the Most Popular Sightseeing Spots in Matsue, Shimane Prefecture! A Look at the Only Castle in Japan's San'in Region to Boast a Castle Tower!
Art & Architecture- 88 plays
- YouTube
Introducing Matsue Castle! This video is titled "[Remastered] Matsue Castle - Shimane - 松江城." Produced by "TokyoStreetView - Japan The Beautiful," it introduces Matsue Castle in Shimane prefecture. Matsue Castle is one of the 5 castles of Japan that are designated as national treasures. The majestic castle has an aura of history surrounding it and is a popular sightseeing destination in Shimane prefecture. In this article, we'll introduce Shimane prefecture’s Matsue Castle alongside with the video. About Matsue Castle Photo:Shimane prefecture・Matsue Castle Matsue Castle, introduced in the video, is a hirayama-style castle built in 1611. Horio Yoshiharu, Kyougoku Tadataka, Matsudaira Naomasa, and Matsudaira Harusato were lords of this castle. The castle has two names, and is often called "Chidori Castle." Famed for the only existing castle tower in the San-in region, Matsue Castle is built on the small Kameda Mountain, overlooking the beautiful Shinji Lake. Besides Matsue Castle, 5 more castles, including Inuyama Castle, Matsumoto Castle, Hikone Castle, and Himeji castle, are all designated as national treasures of Japan. Matsue Castle is designated as a national historical ruin as well as being chosen as one of the top 100 cherry blossom spots in Japan and one of the top 100 beautiful cityscapes. The History of Matsue Castle Photo:Matsue Castle in Spring In the Edo period (1603-1868), Matsue Castle served as the government office of the Matsue clan in the Edo Shogunate. However, because of the ordinance of "One Domain, One Castle," in the Meiji era (1868-1912), most of the castle, besides the wooden castle tower, was dismantled. Later on, the outer citadel tower and stone walls were reconstructed; and in the early years of the Showa era, the castle hillside area was opened to the public as a park. At 0:39 in the video, you can see Matsue Castle at the center of Matsue Shiroyama Park. Attached to the castle tower, there are connecting towers called Tsuke-yagura (lit. attached tower). The brattices, paulownia staircases, and wrapping boards called Tsutsumi-ita that protected the pillars were all distinctive features of the castle. It is said that there were many failed attempts when building the stone walls for the castle tower and there is also an urban legend that tells of men sacrificing themselves and becoming human pillars. Things to Note When Sightseeing at Matsue Castle Photo:Matsue Castle・Moat cruise During the fall season, there is an illumination event at Matsue Castle, and you can see the beautiful autumn colors. On New Year’s, the area is packed with people waiting to see the first sunrise of the year. Every year in winter, the Matsue Castle marathon is held; we recommend checking it out if you're interested! After visiting Matsue Castle, enjoy lunch at a café in the castle town where the samurai residences still remain, or take a cruise around the moat of Matsue Castle on the Horikawa River on a sightseeing boat. Summary of Matsue Castle Photo:Shimane prefecture・Matsue Castle It takes about 1 hour to see everything at the castle, including the castle tower and connecting towers, the well, and Matsue Castle Park. When sightseeing at the castle, be sure to get your seal stamp to commemorate your visit. In Shimane prefecture, there are many popular tourist spots, including Shinji Lake, Izumo Taisha Shrine, and Tamatsukuri Onsen. Be sure to check them out if you have time! ◆Matsue Castle Facility Overview◆ 【Address】1-5 Tonomachi, Matsue City, Shimane Prefecture 【Access】10 minutes by Lake Line Bus from JR Matsue Station, or a 20 minute walk from Matsue Shinji Onsen Station on the Ichibata Electric Railway 【Hours】8:30~18:30(Differs according to season) 【Admission fee】Adults ¥680, Elementary/Junior High School Students ¥290, Foreigners ¥470 【Parking】None. Please use a nearby coin parking lot 【Telephone】0852-21-4030 【Official Website】National Treasure Matsue Castle Website https://www.matsue-castle.jp/ 【Tripadvisor】Matsue Castle https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g298136-d324845-Reviews-Matsue_Castle-Matsue_Shimane_Prefecture_Chugoku.html -
Video article 3:47
The End of the Tokugawa Shogunate and the Start of Japan's Development Began Here! The "Kosuge Slip Dock": A World Heritage Site in Nagasaki!
History- 42 plays
- YouTube
The World Heritage site, Kosuge Slip Dock This video, titled "The World Heritage site and Birthplace of the Modern Shipyard 'Kosuge Slip Dock'" (世界遺産、日本の近代造船所発祥の地「小菅修船場跡」), was released by "videopro8570495." The first Western style dock in Japan, Kosuge Slip Dock is registered as a World Heritage site. It is in Kusuage, Nagasaki city, Nagasaki prefecture, Kyushu and is the birthplace of the modern shipyard. It was completed in December 1868. This Western style dock is used for repairing ships. The pulling device, powered by the oldest steam boiler in Japan, is installed here. The Western style dock has a steam engine boiler called “a slipway” with a platform for pulling the ship. The slipway was called “Abacus Dock” because it looks like an abacus. “Abacus Dock” is shown from 0:55 in the video. Also, the boiler that makes steam and the device to pull the 1,000 ton ship is shown from 3:12 in the video. The History of the Kosuge Slip Dock Source :YouTube screenshot The Kosuge Slip Dock was planned by Thomas Blake Glover who was a Scottish trader and the Satsuma Domain Warlords, such as the Ten Great Nobles of the Restoration, Komatsu Kiyokado and Godai Tomoatsu. The foreign ship repair facility and shipyard, was completed in 1868. The next year, Thomas Glover ran out of funds in the arms trade. He sold the Kosuge Slip Dock to the Meiji Government and it became a facility managed by the Nagasaki Iron Factory and owned by Mitsubishi. After the takeover, it grew to become the current Nagasaki Dockyard of Mitsubishi Heavy Industries, but the business scale was reduced as the ships became larger. During World War II, the company produced small military ships and managed to make a small comeback, but after the war in 1953, it was closed down. Now, the oldest brick building is designated as a historic site of Japan. Its unique brick was called a konjak brick. In 2015, it was registered as a UNESCO World Heritage site as the “Site of Japan’s Meiji Industrial Revolution: Iron and Steel, Shipbuilding and Coal Mining.” The brick-building is shown from 1:11 in the video. The Mystery of the Kosuge Slip Dock Photo:Kosuge Repair Dock Old Site Kosuge, Nagasaki city, Nagasaki prefecture was the ideal place for pulling in and pulling out ships, because it has a small cove that extends into the land, but it still remains a mystery why the Satsuma clan was able to locate a shipyard in Nagasaki, which was outside of their domain. There are four theories: 1. The economic power of the Satsuma clan extended to Nagasaki 2. Kosuge was under the shogun's jurisdiction 3. The shogunate needed a ship repairing dock 4. A trader patronized by Nagasaki was an applicant for construction The Kosuge Slip Dock, a Sightseeing Location in Nagasaki Source :YouTube screenshot The Kosuge Slip Dock is famous not only for its history, but also as a tourist site. The cottage for pulling up the ships, is open during weekends. The boiler and the huge gear is really something else. You can go to Kosuge, Nagasaki city, Nagasaki prefecture by taking a Nagasaki bus from JR Nagasaki station to Kosugemachi. It's about a 15 minute ride and 5 minutes walk. There is no parking available, so we highly recommend using public transportation. Feel the History of the End of the Tokugawa Shogunate at the Kosuge Slip Dock a World Heritage Site in Nagasaki Source :YouTube screenshot Did you like the article? The breathtaking views are even more powerful if you learn more about the history and background that played an important role in the history of shipyards at the end of Edo period. Please visit the Kosuge Slip Dock World Heritage site when you go to Nagasaki! There are nearby hotels for you to stay at as well. ◆Kosuge Slip Dock◆ 【Address】5 Kosugemachi, Nagasaki city, Nagasaki Prefecture, 850-0934 【Access】A 15 minutes bus ride from JR Nagasaki station to Kosugemachi and then a 5-minute walk 【Entrance fee】None 【Parking】None 【Telephone No】095-829-1314 【Official Website】DISCOVER NAGASAKI official visitor guide https://www.discover-nagasaki.com/ 【Tripadvisor】Kosuge Repair Dock Old Site https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g298568-d4952490-Reviews-Kosuge_Repair_Dock_Old_Site-Nagasaki_Nagasaki_Prefecture_Kyushu.html -
Video article 8:44
Sunpu Castle, Built by Tokugawa Ieyasu, One of the "Three Unifiers of Japan," Is Full of Surprises! Learn the History of the Warring States Period at This Historical Castle in Shizuoka!
Art & Architecture Travel- 67 plays
- YouTube
Sunpu Castle, Built by Tokugawa Ieyasu, One of the Three Unifiers of Japan! The video, titled "Top 100 Castles of Japan|Sunpu Castle," was created by "castle shrine." It introduces Sunpu Castle in Aoi, Shizuoka, Shizuoka. Sunpu Castle is a castle built by Tokugawa Ieyasu and has been chosen as one of Japan’s Top 100 Castles. The castle is also called Fuchu Castle and Shizuoka Castle. During the Edo period (1603 to 1868), the Sunpu domain and head of Sunpu Castle were established. At present, the site of the inner citadel and the ruins of the outer citadel have been transformed into Sunpu Castle Park. Public facilities such as the prefectural government office and the Shizuoka District Legal Affairs Office are located in the outermost area of the castle. About Sunpu Castle and Its History Photo:Sunpu Castle Ruins park・Statue of Tokugawa Ieyasu Shizuoka City in Shizuoka Prefecture was ruled around the 14th century by the Imagawa clan, the Suruga Protectorate of the Muromachi Shogunate. In 1585, Tokugawa Ieyasu, the ruler of Suruga, moved the castle from Hamamatsu Castle to the present site and began to build Surpu Castle in 1585. Sunpu Castle was completed in 1589, but Tokugawa Ieyasu was transferred to Kanto by order of Toyotomi Hideyoshi, and Nakamura Kazuuji became the lord of the castle. In 1605, Tokugawa Ieyasu handed over the title of Shogunate to Tokugawa Hidetada, who designated Sunpu the seat of government for the imperial family. He expanded Sunpu Castle and laid the foundation for the present-day cityscape by dividing Sunpu Castle Town into sections and creating a flood control project for the Abe River. In honor of his career, a bronze statue of Tokugawa Ieyasu was erected in the castle. It can be seen at 2:43 in the video. The interior of Sunpu Castle has been extensively reconstructed, and in 2016, an excavation of the castle tower was carried out to determine the condition of the tower's stone walls and to collect academic data. You can see the site of the excavation work at 2:50 in the video. Highlights of Sunpu Castle Photo:Sunpu Castle There are a lot of things to see at Sunpu Castle. The East Gate, which can be seen at 1:39 in the video, was restored in 1996. Tatsumi Tower, reconstructed in 1989, is one of the few castles in Japan with an L-shaped layout, and was an effective turret for the protection of Sunpu Castle. The complex waterway of the Ninomaru channel, which was discovered during research, is another highlight of the castle. Hitsujisaru Yagura is located in the southwest of Sunpu Castle's Outer Citadel Tower Although it looks like a double-roofed building, it is actually three stories high, and at the time it was used to defend against attacking enemies as an armory and a lookout. At the end of March 2014, it was restored using traditional wooden construction methods from that time period. All of the flooring and ceiling material on each floor have been removed, and some of it is glass, so you can see the subfloor structure of the tower. There's also Jodai Bridge and the Outer Citadel Gate too! You can also experience VR in the space-time room. At the attached Momijiyama Park, you can experience the atmosphere of a daimyo's garden. In spring, you can enjoy a cup of tea while admiring the seasonal changes in the cherry blossoms and other flowers. In the garden's teahouse, you can enjoy a variety of events such as tea ceremony, flower arranging, and haiku. Sunpu Castle General Information Photo:Mt. Shizuhata・Kunozan Toshogu Shrine Sunpu Castle is open from 9:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. and is closed on Mondays. Admission is ¥360 for adults and ¥120 for children for all three facilities (East Gate/Tatsumi Yagura, Hitsujisaru Yagura and Momijiyama Garden). The castle is a 15-minute walk from JR Shizuoka Station and a 12-minute walk from Shizuoka Railway Shin-Shizuoka Station. By car it's about 17 minutes from the Shizuoka Interchange of the Tomei Expressway and 18 minutes from the Shin-Shizuoka Interchange of the New Tomei Expressway. There is no parking lot available, so please use the parking lot in front of the Civic Cultural Center (市民文化会館). Nearby Sunpu Castle is Kunozan Toshogu Shrine, a national treasure. This is the shrine where Tokugawa Ieyasu was buried and the temple used to be the site of Kuno Castle. At Rinzai Temple (臨済寺, Rinzaiji), located at the foot of Mt. Shizuhata, there are tombs and a memorial tablet of the Imagawa clan. Summary of Sunpu Castle Photo:Sunpu Castle Park and Mt. Fuji What'd you think of Sunpu Castle, built by the great general of the Warring States period, Tokugawa Ieyasu? Why not visit Sunpu Castle and get a red seal stamp from one of "Top 100 Castles of Japan"? Sunpu Castle is the great place to revisit the history of the Warring States period and learn about the history of Japan! ◆Information◆ 【Address】1-1 Sunpujokoen, Aoi, Shizuoka, Shizuoka 424-0855 【Access】A 15-minute walk from JR Shizuoka Station and a 12-minute walk from Shizuoka Railway Shin-Shizuoka Station 【Admission fee】Tickets for all three facilities (East Gate/Tatsumi Yagura, Hitsujisaru Yagura and Momijiyama Garden) are ¥360 for adults and ¥120 for children. 【Hours】9 am to 4:30 pm (East Gate, Tatsumi Yagura and Momijiyama Garden) 【Parking】Available 【Telephone】054-251-0016 【Official Website】Sumpu Castle Park https://sumpu-castlepark.com/en/ 【Tripadvisor】Sumpu Castle Park https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g298124-d1568848-Reviews-Shizuoka_castle-Shizuoka_Shizuoka_Prefecture_Tokai_Chubu.html -
Video article 5:00
The 190,000-Square-Meter Atsuta Forest at Atsuta Shrine in Nagoya City, Aichi Prefecture, Is Dotted With Power Spots! Take a Trip To the Historic Shrine, Which Has Been Around for Approximately 1,900 Years!
Art & Architecture- 63 plays
- YouTube
Introducing Power Spots on the Grounds of Atsuta Shrine This video, titled "Atsuta Jingu - Nagoya - Aichi - 熱田神宮 - 4K Ultra HD," was created by "TokyoStreetView - Japan The Beautiful." The video portrays the grounds of Atsuta Shrine (Atsuta Jingu) in Atsuta, Nagoya City, Aichi Prefecture. Atsuta Shrine, known affectionately as "Atsuta-san" to the locals, has a long and rich history. Besides the main shrine, there's "Atsuta Shrine Grove" (熱田の杜) with its towering camphor trees. The entire space is filled with spiritual energy. In this article, we'll introduce the must-see areas and visitor information about the shrine. From the video alone, you'll get a sense of how it feels to walk through the quiet and serene atmosphere of the shrine. What Kind of Place Is Atsuta Shrine? Photo:Atsuta Shrine in Nagoya City, Aichi Prefecture Atsuta Shrine is an ancient shrine with around 1,900 years of history. The enshrined deity, Atsuta-no-Ookami (熱田大神) represents the sacred sword Kusanagi shinken (草薙神剣), one of the Three Sacred Treasures of Japan. The Five Great Gods of Atsuta, including Amaterasu-Omikami (天照大神) and Takehaya Susanoo-no-mikoto (素盞嗚尊) are enshrined as well. The shrine is a 3-minute walk from Jingu-Mae Station (名鉄神宮前駅) on the Nagoya Line (名鉄名古屋本線). Right in front of the station is Atsuta Shrine Grove. By car, the shrine is 10 kilometers away from the Nagoya Minami Interchange (名古屋南IC) on the Isewangan Expressway (伊勢湾岸自動車道). Parking is available at the shrine as well. At Atsuta Shrine, around 60 ceremonies and events are held every year, with the most popular being the "Atsuta Festival" (熱田まつり), held on the 5th of June. The shrine also attracts many visitors on occasions such as the first day of the year, Shichi-Go-San, and weddings, as well as for shrine visits or collecting shuin. A Look at the Grounds of Atsuta Shrine Photo:Atsuta Shrine in Nagoya City, Aichi Prefecture The video begins at the "East Gate" (東門) closest to Jingu-Mae Station. This can be seen from 0:05 in the video. Inside the shrine, there's the East Entrance, West Entrance (西門), and Main Entrance (正門). As seen from 0:34 in the video, visitors must conduct ritual cleansings of their hands and mouth before entering the shrine. A row of sake barrels can be seen, with the 1000-year-old camphor tree "Okusu" (大楠) standing near by. Continuing on, you'll find the main shrine. This can be seen from 2:10 in the video. In the video, you can see the prayer hall (祈祷殿) where purification rituals are conducted, as well as the praying area for shrine visits (神楽殿). Behind the main shrine is the path "Kokoro-no-Komichi" (こころの小径), and further in, you can find Ichinomisaki Shrine (一之御前神社) where Amaterasu (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Amaterasu) is enshrined. This is known as the most spiritual place within the shrine, and access to the path is only open between 9 am and 4 pm every day. Another power spot is "Shimizu Shrine" (清水社) where the deity of water is enshrined. Other spots for prayers include the Minami-Shingu-Sha Shrine (南新宮社) where Susanoo is enshrined, Kusunomi-Mae-Sha Shrine (楠之御前社) where the deity of childbirth is enshrined, Hakken-gū (別宮八剣宮) where a sacred sword is enshrined, Kamichikama Shrine (Sessha Kamichikama Shrine, 上知我麻神社) where the deity of wisdom is enshrined, as well as Okuninushi-sha(大国主社) of the deity Daikoku (大黒様), and Kotoshironushi-sha (事代主社) of the deity Ebisu (恵比寿様). Summary of Atsuta Shrine Photo:Hitsuzumabushi, Nagoya City, Aichi Prefecture The video introduces the vibrant grounds of Atsuta Shrine. Be sure to check it out to see beautiful, relaxing scenes of the shrine. Of course, it'd be even better to pay an actual visit to the shrine! Near the shrine are numerous restaurants offering Nagoya's famous local specialty, hitsumabushi, so consider trying it if you're looking to grab a bite to eat! ◆Atsuta Shrine Facilities Overview◆ 【Address】Atsuta, Nagoya City, Aichi Prefecture 1-1-1 【Access】A 3-minute walk from Jingu-Mae Station off the Meitetsu Nagoya Line 【Hours】24/7 【Parking】Available 【Telephone】052-671-4151 【Official Website】Atsuta Shrine|Hatsu-Ebisu|Shichi-Go-San|Shrine Visit|Purification|Nagoya|Atsuta Shrine http://www.atsutajingu.or.jp/en/intro/ 【Tripadvisor】Atsuta Shrine https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g298106-d320120-Reviews-Atsuta_Jingu_Shrine-Nagoya_Aichi_Prefecture_Tokai_Chubu.html -
Video article 3:50
Known for its huge, nearly 15-meter tall Buddha statue, the Great Buddha Hall at Todai-ji Temple is a popular spot to visit! The historic Todai-ji Temple is home to many other national treasures and Buddha statues!
Art & Architecture- 248 plays
- YouTube
This video, titled "Todai-Ji - Nara - 東大寺 - 4K Ultra HD," was released by "TokyoStreetView - Japan The Beautiful." Nara has been around for 1,300 years and has many tourist attractions, but the most popular ones are still Todai-ji Temple and Nara Park. Todai-ji Temple, which attracts thousands of visitors every year, was built in 743 and is the head temple of the Kegon sect of Buddhism. The Daibutsu-den (Great Buddha Hall) is a national treasure and was surrounded by a building called a "Kondo" (Golden Hall) after the nearly 15-meter-tall Buddha was built. There are many other national treasures on the temple grounds, including a standing statue of Kongorikishi. Todai-ji Temple is also a World Heritage Site. The temple has had a great influence on Japanese Buddhism and culture, making it a must-visit location! -
Video article 3:33
Starbucks Reserve Roastery Tokyo: The First Luxury Starbucks in Japan, Launched in Nakameguro, Tokyo! Enjoy a Relaxing Time at This Starbucks, Located Along the Beautiful Meguro River!
Art & Architecture Shopping- 48 plays
- YouTube
One of Five "Starbucks Reserve Roasteries" in the World! Here's a video from SankeiNews showing the press the opening of the Starbucks Reserve Roastery Tokyo in Nakameguro in February 2019. This video was published by “SankeiNews.” The title of the video is "Only the 5th Store of its Kind in the World|An In-Store Roasting Machine|Starbucks Reserve Roastery Makes Landfall in Japan" (世界で五番目 店内に焙煎機 「高級スタバ」日本初上陸). Starbucks is a popular coffee chain with around 1,500 stores in Japan (as of September, 2019). The Starbucks introduced in the video is called a “Starbucks Reserve Roastery.” It is very different from regular Starbucks stores. Starbucks Reserve Roastery is a new type of coffee shops offering a high-quality, luxurious coffee experience by roasting coffee beans inside the store. This article will talk about the appeals of “Starbucks Reserve Roastery Tokyo.” Be sure to watch the video as you read on! Before we go any further, we recommend checking out the interior of Starbucks Reserve Roastery Tokyo shown in the video. This Starbucks offers “a unique, signature experience from roasting the beans to pouring the perfect coffee.” The Luxury Starbucks Reserve Roastery Tokyo Source :YouTube screenshot Starbucks Reserve Roastery Tokyo was launched in February, 2019 in Meguro, Tokyo. It's a 14 minute walk from Nakameguro station, located by the Meguro river. Enjoy the beautiful scenery of the Meguro river from the terrace- a famous place for cherry blossom viewing. The first thing that catches your eye upon entering the store is the huge cask in which the roasted coffee beans are matured. This can be seen at 0:24 in the video. The casks also feature a metal exterior design with cherry blossom petals. The other Starbucks Reserve Roastery are located in Seattle, Shanghai, Milan, and New York. This is the very first Starbucks Reserve Roastery in Japan. The CEO of Starbucks Coffee Japan, Takafumi Mizuguchi, made a speech, stating, “I want to make Japan a coffee wonderland” (0:36). After Mizuguchi’s speech, the architect, Kengo Kuma (a well-known designer who designed the new National Stadium) talked about the exterior design of this Starbucks. Introducing the Floors of Starbucks Reserve Roastery Tokyo Source :YouTube screenshot On the first floor, there is a main bar where you can order coffee, and an Italian bakery called “Princi” that offers freshly baked pastries. You can also purchase limited merchandise on the first floor (1:05). TEAVANA is located on the second floor. Here, you can enjoy different teas such as black tea and Japanese tea (1:52). The ARRIVIAMO BAR counter is located on the third floor. On this floor, you can enjoy special alcohol, including wine, beer, and cocktails, that use coffee (2:28). The fourth floor is also used for local events, as well as for tours to see the process of packaging coffee. Summary of Starbucks Reserve Roastery Tokyo Source :YouTube screenshot In this video, you can see the inside of the luxury Starbucks. This is the first store of its kind to launch in Japan. When it first opened, there was a long line to get in and tickets were distributed to prevent overcrowding. For now, you can check out this Starbucks in this video. The menu is very different from a regular Starbucks. A cup of coffee costs around 1,000 yen, but the taste of the coffee is very different from what you can get at other coffee shops. The atmosphere of the store is also outstanding. If you have a chance, be sure to visit this luxury Starbucks! 【Official Website】STARBUCKS RESERVE® ROASTERY TOKYO https://www.starbucks.co.jp/reserve/roastery/ 【Tripadvisor】STARBUCKS RESERVE(R) ROASTERY TOKYO https://www.tripadvisor.com/Restaurant_Review-g1066450-d16714835-Reviews-Starbucks_Reserve_R_Roastery_Tokyo-Meguro_Tokyo_Tokyo_Prefecture_Kanto.html -
Video article 4:57
The History of Shinshu's Matsumoto Castle, One of the Most Beloved Castles in Japan. The Keep is One of Only Five Keeps Registered as a National Treasure in Japan, and the Castle Even Has a Rare Moon Viewing Tower as Well!
Travel- 93 plays
- YouTube
This video, titled "Matsumoto Castle - 松本城 - 4K Ultra HD," was released by "TokyoStreetView - Japan The Beautiful." Unlike other castles in Japan, Matsumoto Castle is not built on a hill or mountain plateau, but on flat ground. Originally built as Fukashi Castle in the Warring States period (1467-1568) by the Shinano Protectorate of Ogasawara City, Matsumoto Castle once fell during the invasion of Takeda City in Kai Province. However, it was later rebuilt and is now one of the most beloved castles in Japan. The castle tower was built by Naomasa Matsudaira, the feudal lord at that time, and it is the only existing national treasure with a moon viewing tower in Japan. Many events are held in the nearby Matsumoto Castle Park throughout the year, so we recommend visiting during these events. -
Video article 3:20
Zojoji Temple – Explore a Temple in the Heart of Tokyo Dotted With Buddhist Statues, Colorful Pinwheels, and Ties to Famous Warlords
Art & Architecture Travel- 48 plays
- YouTube
Zojoji Temple, Minato, Tokyo: Video Introduction This video, titled "Zojo-ji temple Jizo Statues Part II - Tokyo - 4K Ultra HD," was uploaded by "TokyoStreetView - Japan The Beautiful." Have you ever heard of Tokyo's Zojoji Temple? It actually attracted a lot of attention when it hosted the funeral of former Prime Minister Shinzo Abe. Zojoji Temple is one of the seven head temples of the Jodo sect of Buddhism and is located in Minato, Tokyo. Its official name is Sanenzan Kodoin Zojoji (三縁山広度院 増上寺). The video opens with a shot of a gate, showing a large number of ema plaques with the image of Avalokitesvara (a Boddhisatva) on them. In one area of the temple is the Garden of Unborn Children where Jizo statues stand holding windmills, inviting visitors to an otherworldly place. Be sure to take a look at it in the video. It's not often you find a place like this in a big city like Tokyo. History and Highlights of Zojoji Temple Photo:Zojoji Temple, Minato, Tokyo Zojoji Temple is a Buddhist temple of the Jodo sect of Buddhism, that was founded in 1393 by Yuyo Shoso, the eighth head priest of the Jodo sect. It was chosen as a family temple of the Tokugawa family and developed dramatically during the Edo period (1603-1868 A.D.) with deep ties to the Tokugawa Shoguns. There are gravesites of six Tokugawa shoguns within the precincts of the temple, showing the depth of the temple's connection with the Tokugawa family. The Black Image of Amida Buddha, which Ieyasu is said to have taken with him when he went into battle and prayed for victory, is known as the Buddha of victory and luck. The black-colored amulet of victory (勝運のお守り, Shoun no O-Mamori), derived from the Black Image of Amida Buddha, has a powerful aura. Be sure to keep an eye out for them when visiting the temple. There are many Important Cultural Properties to see on the temple grounds, including the Daiden (大殿, Main Hall), Enko-Daishi Hall (圓光大師堂, Enkodaishi-den, a hall dedicated to the Buddhist monk Honen Shonin), and Ankokuden Hall (安国殿, Ankokuden), which houses the Black Image of Amida Buddha. The temple is also popular for its photogenic nature, where visitors can photograph both historic buildings and the modern Tokyo Tower in one shot. The Jizo of Child Rearing at Zojoji Temple Photo:The Jizo of Child Rearing at Zojoji Temple, Minato, Tokyo Located on the north side of the temple grounds, there are many Jizo of Child Rearing standing with pinwheels and wearing distinctive red knit hats and red bibs. The temple was built to pray for the safe and sound growth, and for the repose of the souls of children. On the third Sunday of April every year, a grand Buddhist service dedicated to the Jizo of Child Rearing is held. Access to Zojoji Temple Photo:JR Hamamatsucho Station Located in Shiba Park, Zojoji Temple is easily accessible from Odaiba and other tourist attractions in the Tokyo waterfront area. The nearest station, Hamamatsucho Station, is easily accessible from Haneda Airport, so many tourists from far away visit the temple. Zojoji Temple does not have a parking lot, so if you're coming by car, we recommend using public transportation as you will have to find a nearby parking lot. ◆Zojoji Temple◆ 【Address】4 Chome-7-35 Shibakoen, Minato City, Tokyo 105-0011 【Telephone】03-3432-1431 【Access】 Train: ・A 10-minute walk from Hamamatsucho Station via JR Lines and the Tokyo Monorail ・A 3-minute walk from Onarimon Station on the Toei Subway Mita Line, and a 3-minute walk from Shiba Park ・A 5-minute walk from Daimon Station on the Toei Subway Asakusa Line and Oedo Line ・A 7-minute walk from Akabanebashi Station on the Toei Subway Oedo Line ・A 10-minute walk from Kamiyacho Station on the Tokyo Metro Hibiya Line Summary of Zojoji Temple In this article, we introduced a video of the lovely Zojoji Temple. Watching the video, you will find it hard to believe that the temple is located amongst the skyscrapers central Tokyo. Zojoji Temple attracts many worshippers, making it a popular place for New Year's shrine visits in Tokyo. If you're sightseeing in Tokyo, be sure to check out Zojoji Temple as it's not far from Tokyo Tower! 【Official Website】Zojoji Temple 【TripAdvisor】Zojoji Temple -
Video article 3:47
Japan's Most Iconic Zen Garden at Ryoan-ji Is a Charming Landscape of 15 Stones Arranged in a Quaint Setting... Is It True That You Can't See All the Stones in the Garden From One Place?
Art & Architecture- 258 plays
- YouTube
This video, titled "Ryoan-ji Temple - Kyoto - 龍安寺," was released by "TokyoStreetView - Japan The Beautiful." If you're interested in Japanese Zen gardens, we highly recommend visiting Ryoan-ji Temple in Kyoto. Ryoan-ji Temple has a Japanese garden with 15 stones and is a national historic site and a special place of scenic beauty. The beautiful stone garden is also known as the "tiger cub crossing" (虎の子渡しの庭) because the stones represent tigers and the sand represents a river crossing. It is said that the garden at Ryoan-ji represents the deep philosophy of Zen, as not all of the stones can be seen when looking at the garden from a single location. In addition to the stone garden, you should also visit the tsukubai and Kyoyo Chi Pond, which offers a spectacular view of the garden. -
Video article 4:25
Ukimido at Mangetsuji, a Temple Located on the Shores of Lake Biwa, Has Been Selected as One of the Eight Views of Omi. Check Out the Origins of Ukimodo, Which Date Back to the Heian Period!
Art & Architecture- 27 plays
- YouTube
This video, titled "Ukimido Mangetsuji Temple - Shiga - 満月寺 浮御堂 - 4K Ultra HD," was released by "TokyoStreetView - Japan The Beautiful" Mangetsuji Temple, located on the shores of Lake Biwa in Otsu City, Shiga Prefecture, is home to a temple called Ukimido, which is a Buddhist temple that sits over the lake. This temple is located on the shores of Lake Biwa in Otsu City, Shiga Prefecture, and was built by monks in the Heian period (794-1192) to pray for safety on the lake and for the salvation of all sentient beings. Many haiku poets, including Matsuo Basho, loved Ukimido, which offers a panoramic view of Lake Biwa, and a number of monuments to haiku poems have been erected on the hall's grounds. Its splendid scenery has been selected as one of the Eight Scenic Views of Omi, known as the "Rakugan (geese) of Katada. There are many other places around Lake Biwa that have been selected as one of the Eight Views of Omi, so be sure to stop by! -
Video article 16:34
From Hokkaido in the North to Okinawa in the South, 160 of Japan's Amazing Castles! An Introduction to Japanese Castles From All Periods, From Ancient Times to the Edo Period!
History- 28 plays
- YouTube
This video, titled "A Tour of Japan's Castles: 160 Castles, Including Some of Japan's Top 100 Castles" (日本の城めぐり~日本100名城を含む160城), was released by "S. ENDO." It's said that there used to be more than 25,000 castles in Japan. They ranged from mountain castles to flat castles. This video introduces castles (or castle ruins) from all eras, from ancient times to modern times. There are a whopping 160 castles in all. Some of these castles include Japan's top 100 castles, castle towers, and some of Japan's three greatest mountain castles. When you watch this video of castles from Hokkaido to Okinawa, you'll see that the word "castle" refers to a variety of forms. However, the era with the most castles was the Warring States period. Today, when we hear the word "castle," we think of castles from this era. -
Video article 1:41
It's Only Been 4 Years Since the Disaster, but You'll Soon Be Able To See the Original, Beautiful Kumamoto Castle. Donations Are Still Being Collected for the Reconstruction of Kumamoto Castle, Which Was Damaged by the Kumamoto Earthquake
Art & Architecture- 37 plays
- YouTube
Introducing Drone Footage of Kumamoto Castle's Reconstruction! This video, titled "Four Years Since Kumamoto Earthquake. Drone Footage of Kumamoto Castle's Reconstruction" (熊本地震から4年 修復作業続く熊本城をドローン撮影), was released by "Jiji Press Video Center" (時事通信映像センター) in 2020. Kumamoto Castle is a famous sightseeing spot in Kumamoto. It was damaged in the Kumamoto Earthquake that struck on April 14th, 2016 and reconstruction is currently ongoing. Reconstruction of the exterior of the large keep will be finished by 2020, and work on the interior of the large keep and small keep will continue through 2021. During the restoration period, the castle has a special viewing corridor, as shown at 1:05 of the video, where you can see a close look at the repairs taking place. The History and Characteristics of Kumamoto Castle Photo:Kumamoto Castle Kumamoto Castle, also known as Ginnan Castle, was built between the Azuchi-Momoyama period (1573-1598) and the Edo period (1603-1868) in Kumamoto, Akita, Higo as a flatland-mountain castle. After Kato Kiyomasa rebuilt the castle, it became the residence of the Hosokawa family of the Kumamoto Domain until the end of the Edo period. In the Meiji period (1868-1912), it was used as a battlefield for Satsuma Rebellion and as a school. The ruins of castle are designated as a national special historic site and the turret and gate which escaped the flames of the Satsuma Rebellion have been designated Important Cultural Properties. Condition of Reconstruction Photo:Restoration of Kumamoto Castle Kumamoto Castle was badly damaged in the 2016 earthquake. However, the castle barely survived, being supported by a single line of stone wall. This came to be called "The Stone Wall Miracle" and became a beacon of hope for the people affected by the disaster. The total cost of repairing Kumamoto Castle is estimated to be about 35.4 billion yen. If you donate more than 10,000 yen, you will receive a "Castle Lord Card" and "Castle Lord Certificate" and your name will be listed on the digital board. As of 2019, donations have exceeded 2 billion yen. The basic plan for reconstruction was created in 2018 and included "the early restoration of the castle tower, a symbol of reconstruction, and "a plan to lay the foundation to survive at least 100 years." Sightseeing Spots Around the Castle Photo:Kumamoto Castle and Cherry Blossoms The free guide "Omotenashi Busho" is very popular at Kumamoto Castle. You can enjoy cherry blossoms in the spring and autumn colors in the fall, which are very photogenic. There's also the exciting "Kumamoto Castle Marathon" in winter where you can run around the castle. Kato Shrine dedicated to Kato Kiyomasa and the Monogatari Goten on the second floor of the Kumamoto Museum Wakuwakuza are also a must-see. Also check out the "Wakuwakuza History and Cultural Experience." Summary of Kumamoto Castle's Restoration Photo:Kumamoto Castle Inner Citadel and Turrets The castle has 400 years of history and the castle's reconstruction has been attracting a lot of attention from castle fans in Japan and abroad. Check out the official website for information on the reconstruction, special exhibitions, and for maps. We recommend taking a look at the live camera at Josaien Wakuwakuza to check the progress. ◆About Kumamoto Castle◆ 【Address】1-1 Honmaru, Chuo, Kumamoto, Kumamoto 【Access】A 10-minute walk from Kumamoto Castle/City Hall Station and 30 minutes by bus from JR Kumamoto Station 【Entrance fee】500 yen for adult and 200 yen for elementary and junior high school student. 【Hours】8:30 am to 6:00 pm from March to November, 8:30 am to 5:00 pm from December to February 【Closures】December 29th to December 31st 【Parking Facilities】Available 【Telephone No】096-223-5011 【Official Website】Kumamoto Castle https://castle.kumamoto-guide.jp/en/ 【Tripadvisor】Kumamoto Castle https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g298213-d324727-Reviews-Kumamoto_Castle-Kumamoto_Kumamoto_Prefecture_Kyushu.html -
Video article 6:56
A Look at Saihoji Temple in Miyagi Prefecture, Known Locally as "Teigi San." Enjoy a Relaxing Time at an Ancient Temple in the Mountains of Sendai!
Art & Architecture- 33 plays
- YouTube
This video, titled "[Cinematic] Joginyorai Saiho Temple - Miyagi - 定義如来 西方寺 - 4K Ultra HD" was produced by "TokyoStreetView - Japan The Beautiful." Located in the city of Sendai, Miyagi Prefecture, Saihoji Temple is locally referred to as "Teigi San". The temple honors a hanging scroll of the Amitabha Buddha, which was brought to the temple at the end of the Heian period by Taira no Shigemori. Beyond the magnificent temple gate is the distinctive hexagonal main hall. Be sure to visit the imposing five-story pagoda at Saihoji Temple as well. You can also spend a leisurely day in the garden near the five-story pagoda while enjoying a cup of green tea. Situated in the mountains, far from the city center of Sendai, Saihoji Temple is an ideal spot for those who want to get away from the hustle and bustle of the city and relax. -
Video article 4:52
Yebisu Garden Place Is a Landmark in the Ebisu Area of Tokyo! Check Out the History of Garden Place, as Well as Available Facilities and Events!
Shopping- 37 plays
- YouTube
This video, titled "[Tokyo Footage] YEBISU GARDEN PLACE | 恵比寿ガーデンプレイス(Tokyo Japan)," was released by "Tokyo Tokyo." Yebisu Garden Place is a landmark in front of Ebisu Station on the JR Yamanote Line. As introduced in the video, Yebisu Garden Place is a stylish business center in Shibuya. In addition to being a popular date spot, it is sometimes used as a filming location for movies and dramas. Yebisu Garden Place is a redeveloped building that opened in 1994 on the site of the former Sapporo Beer Factory, and it spans the Shibuya and Meguro wards of Tokyo. In addition to popular shops, there's also a luxury hotel, a museum, and a movie theater. In the winter, the Christmas lights are illuminated in the building, and it's a great place to be. -
Video article 6:19
Matsumoto Castle, a National Treasure, Is One of the Most Popular Sightseeing Spots in Nagano! The Interior of the Castle Tower Is an Amazing Sight, Filled With History!
Art & Architecture- 32 plays
- YouTube
This video, titled "Matsumoto Castle (Castle Tower Interior)" (松本城(天守内部編)), was released by "ibukivideo." In this video, you can see the inside of Matsumoto Castle in Nagano Prefecture. The interior of Matsumoto Castle is constructed with many log pillars. The castle was designed for warfare and you can see the historical background of the castle all the way back to the Warring States period. Guns, armor and paintings from that time period are also displayed. Be sure to check it out in the video. -
Video article 2:35
The Autumn Foliage of Bitchu Matsuyama Castle: A Spectacular View of the "Castle in the Sky" Floating on a Sea of Clouds!
Art & Architecture- 29 plays
- YouTube
This video, titled "[Autumn Foliage in Reiwa] Bitchu Matsuyama Castle" (「令和の紅葉」 備中松山城), was released by Yomiuri Shimbun Online Videos" (読売新聞オンライン動画). Bitchu Matsuyama Castle is one of the twelve existing castle towers that stands at the top of a mountain 430 meters above sea level. It is the only existing castle with a castle tower and is designated as a National Important Cultural Property. In autumn, the castle is called "Castle in the Sky" for its fantastic appearance in a sea of clouds. The best time to see the autumn foliage is around the end of November. During the fall foliage season, taxis are available from Bicchu Takahashi Station off the JR Hakubi Line. Many people visit here every year. Enjoy the beautiful natural scenery and the authentic wooden castle tower. -
Video article 14:51
Koyasan Is a Holy Land for Japanese Buddhism Which Was Founded by Kukai. Come Purify Your Mind and Body at This Mysterious Power Spot in Wakayama Prefecture!
Art & Architecture- 66 plays
- YouTube
Introducing Mt. Koya This video, titled "The Holy Land in the Sky – Mt. Koya (生きている天空の聖地 高野山) was created by "greentvjapan." It's an introductory video of the beautiful and mysterious Mt. Koya; one of the top holy cities in Japan. Mt. Koya is known as a holy place by those who follow Buddhism, folk religion, and mountain worship. The History of Mt. Koya Photo:Koyasan Daimon, Wakayama Prefecture Mt. Koya, a sacred mountain located in Koya, Ito district (伊都郡高野町) in Wakayama prefecture, is a holy land for Buddhism, starting with Shuzenji Temple given to Kukai (also known as Kobo Daishi (弘法大師)) by Emperor Saga (嵯峨天皇) in the Heian Period (794 AD - 1185 AD). Mt. Koya, which is the site of the head temple for Shingon Buddhism (真言宗, shingonshuu), is designated by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site under "Sacred Sites and Pilgrimage Routes in the Kii Mountain Range." The beautiful temples on Mt. Koya, created by talented carpenters and cypress bark roof craftsmen, are a must see for any tourist visiting the area! The Highlights of Mt. Koya Photo:Danjo Garan in Koya-san, Wakayama Prefecture Mt. Koya's "Danjo-garan" (壇上伽藍) features many temples and shrines including Konpon Daito (根本大塔), Sanno-in (山王院), Kondo (金堂) and "Oku-no-In" (奥之院) of Kongobuji (金剛峯寺). There are many Jizo statues at Oku-no-in. You can take a look at these in the video from 4:14. If you are visiting Mt. Koya on foot, why not trek along some of the famous pilgrimage routes, such as Kurokomichi (黒子道), Nyoninmichi (女人道), Kyoosaka-michi Fudozaka (京大坂道不動坂), Mitanizaka (三谷坂) including Nyusakadonojinja (丹生酒殿神社). You can also receive a special seal stamp called a "Go-shuin" at Mt. Koya for good luck! Other items you can purchase at Mt. Koya include good luck fortunes known as "O-mamori," "zukou" (a powder-type incense/perfume), and good related to Mt. Koya's character, "Koya-kun" (こうやくん). You can also take part in meditation practice, sutra-copying and flower-arrangement experiences. The Temple Lodgings at Mt. Koya Photo:Koya in Wakayama Prefecture Every morning at 6 am when the temple bell rings, the monks begin their ascetic practices. Every morning, the monks take breakfast to Kukai in a ceremony called "Shojingu" (生身供). If you decide to stay the night in one of the Buddhist temples on Mt. Koya you can enjoy vegetarian Buddhist cuisine called "Shojinryori" (精進料理), which includes food, such as sesame tofu and traditional Japanese sweets, with the monks as well as take part in Buddhist prayers. Events on Mt. Koya Source :YouTube screenshot Many events take place on Mt. Koya throughout the year, such as the Aoba Festival (青葉祭り), Koya Fire Festival (高野の火祭り), Obon Lantern Festival and Candle Festival, and man other events that celebrate the changing of the seasons. During fall, there is a special Buddhist service known as "Kinshu Daigaran Oneri Ho'e" (錦秋大伽藍お練り法会) and in winter there is "Gohei Osame" (御幣納め), "Shushoe" (修正会) and "Joyanokane" (除夜の鐘, the ringing of the New Year's bells). Many tourists visit Mt. Koya in spring during cherry blossom season and in fall to enjoy the beautiful scenery of the autumn foliage. Mt. Koya Introductory Video Summary Photo:Danjo Garan As explained in the video, Mt. Koya has a long history dating back more than 1,200 years and is a sacred place worshipped by followers of Buddhism. The entire mountain is sacred meaning there are a lot of tourist spots for you to visit within short distances of one another. Before visiting, we highly recommend checking out the public transportation access to and from the mountain, as well as parking availability, hours, and walking courses to make the most of your trip to Mt. Koya. 【Official Website】Mt. Koya, Shingon Buddhism, Kongobuji temple http://www.koyasan.or.jp/en/ 【Tripadvisor】Mt. Koya https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g1121341-d1028543-Reviews-Mt_Koya-Koya_cho_Ito_gun_Wakayama_Prefecture_Kinki.html -
Video article 2:31
The Current State of Kumamoto Castle, Which Was Severely Damaged by the 2016 Kumamoto Earthquake. When Will We Get To See the Beautiful, Deeply Historic Kumamoto Castle Once More?
History- 16 plays
- YouTube
This video, titled "[Drone Footage] Kumamoto Castle Before It Was Damaged" (【ドローン空撮】損傷前の熊本城 2013年撮影), was released by "HEXaMediaヘキサメディア." Kumamoto Castle is a castle that was built in Higo Province and is also known as Gin'nan Castle. After being rebuilt by Kato Kiyomasa, the castle was used as a residence of the Hosokawa family of the Kumamoto domain until the end of the Edo period. In the Meiji period, the castle was the scene of the Civil War and many of its remains were burned down, but the turrets and gates are still standing and have been designated a national cultural asset. Kumamoto Castle was damaged by the Kumamoto earthquake on April 14, 2016. This video shows what Kumamoto Castle looked like before the earthquake. Currently, repairs are underway at Kumamoto Castle to restore the castle to its original state after the damage it sustained from the earthquake. After the repairs are done, we should be able to see the beautiful Kumamoto Castle again! -
Video article 1:00
The Jet-Black Okayama Castle Standing Beautifully in the Darkness of Night! Discover the Amazing Light Up Event That Turns This Travel Destination Into a Land of Fantasy!
Art & Architecture- 30 plays
- YouTube
Ujo Togenkyo, a Brilliant Illumination Event at Okayama Castle! This video, titled "Okayama Castle|Ujo Togenkyo|Summer 2018|4K" (岡山城 烏城桃源郷 2018夏 4K), was uploaded by "Takashi Matsuo." It introduces a breathtaking light up event at Okayama Castle in Okayama Prefecture. Okayama Castle is also known as "Crow Castle" or "Golden Crow Castle" because of its black lacquered appearance, and is designated as a National Historic Site. Three times a year at Okayama Castle (spring, summer, and autumn), a fantastic event called "Ujo-Tougenkyo" (summer) is held, and you can see the fantastical scenery in this 4K video. What Kind of Event Is Ujo Togenkyo, the Light Up Event at Okayama Castle? Photo:The Okayama Castle light up event, Okayama City, Okayama Prefecture Okayama Castle is often called "Crow Castle" after the black lacquered walls built at the order of Toyotomi Hideyoshi during the rule of the Ukita clan. Later, the lord of Okayama Castle changed from Kobayakawa Hideaki to the Ikeda clan, but its majestic appearance has remained unchanged and continues to delight visitors to the castle. In addition, Korakuen Garden was built when the Ikeda Clan ruled the castle, and visitors can still feel the relaxing atmosphere of that time. Ujo Tougenkyo is a seasonal light up event held at Okayama Castle. The theme of the event is "a soft light surrounding the castle," and the castle tower and its surroundings are lit up to the delight of many tourists every year. The area around the castle is decorated with paper lanterns, garden lanterns, and candles, and the scenery is nothing short of fantastic. You can see the beautiful, mystical scenery of Okayama Castle during the event throughout the video, including the trees surrounding the castle glowing in a variety of colors from 0:39 in the video. At the same time, an event called "Fantasy Garden" (幻想庭園, Genso Teien) is also held at Korakuen Garden on the other side of Okayama Castle. This light up event at Okayama Castle has become famous as a photogenic and Instagrammable event. More Exciting Highlights of Okayama Castle! Photo:The castle keep of Okayama Castle, Okayama City, Okayama Prefecture While the photogenic event "Ujo Tougenkyo" is indeed fascinating, Okayama Castle is a delight in itself. For example, the goshuin stamp of Okayama Castle (currently sold via post due to the renovation of Okayama Castle) and the "Top 100 Japanese Castles" stamp are very popular among history buffs and castle lovers. And what's more, visitors can enjoy lunch and delicious parfaits inside Okayama Castle's castle tower. At "Castle Tea House - Yuki" (お城茶屋ゆき, Oshiro Chaya Yuki) in Okayama Castle's castle tower, visitors can enjoy both food and a variety of sweet treats. In particular, the popular "castle parfait" was depicted in the famous anime "Detective Conan" (Case Closed) with scenes of Conan and Kogoro Mouri eating it, sparking its popularity. Okayama Castle is currently closed for renovation in preparation for its renewal/reopening in November 2022. However, to coincide with the renovation, a new logo using the family crest was unveiled, and the duo "Okayama Ninja" appeared at events in and around the city, donning their black and gold gear to liven up Okayama Castle. Summary of "Ujo Tougenkyo," the Breathtaking Light Up Event at Okayama Castle Photo:Okayama Castle, Okayama City, Okayama Prefecture Ujo Tougenkyo is a fantastical, photogenic event that is sure to delight any visitor to Okayama Castle. The parking lot can accommodate up to 570 standard vehicles, and the admission fee is 410 yen for adults. Come and enjoy the fantastical scenery of "Ujo Tougenkyo"! 【TripAdvisor】Okayama Castle https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g298134-d323963-Reviews-Okayama_Castle-Okayama_Okayama_Prefecture_Chugoku.html -
Video article 8:56
Nikko Toshogu Shrine, Dedicated to the Famous Shogun Tokugawa Ieyasu, Has Plenty of Things to See! Head Over to Nikko Toshogu Shrine to See the Colorful Yomeimon Gate and the Famous Animal Sculptures in the Shrine Buildings!
Art & Architecture- 27 plays
- YouTube
This video, titled "Toshogu Shrine - Nikko - 日光東照宮 - 4K Ultra HD," was released by "TokyoStreetView - Japan The Beautiful." Nikko Toshogu Shrine in Tochigi Prefecture is a popular spot among Japanese and foreign tourists alike, and is known for its worship of the shogun Tokugawa Ieyasu, the founder of the Edo shogunate. Eight buildings, including the main building, are designated as national treasures, and in 1999, the shrine was registered as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Nikko Toshogu Shrine's shrine pavilions and Yomeimon Gate are adorned with brightly colored carvings. Among the animals, the three monkeys (see no evil, hear no evil, speak no evil) and the sleeping cat are a must-see! For a special sightseeing experience in Japan, visit the mysterious Nikko Toshogu Shrine, located deep in the mountains of Tochigi Prefecture! -
Video article 6:50
Nanao Castle - One of the Most Famous Castles in Japan and Once an Impregnable Fortress in Ishikawa! Discover the Secrets of Nanao Castle, Where the Famous Warlord Uesugi Kenshin Fought for His Life!
Art & Architecture History Travel Traditional Culture- 41 plays
- YouTube
Nanao Castle – An Introductory Video on One of the Top 100 Castles of Japan This video, titled "Nanao Castle in ISHIKAWA, JAPAN / #34 of the Top 100 Castles of Japan|4K" (【石川/日本100名城】七尾城/難攻不落の天宮 4K - Nanao castle in ISHIKAWA, JAPAN / The Top 100 Castles in Japan No.34 -), was uploaded by "channel WASABI." Introduces the ruins of Nanao Castle, a mountain castle in Nanao, Ishikawa, in Japan's Koshinetsu region, in beautiful 4K quality! Nanao Castle, one of the Top 100 Castles of Japan and a Nationally Designated Historic Site, is located at an elevation of 300m, overlooking Nanao Bay and the Noto Peninsula from the honmaru (inner citadel). Nanao Castle was considered an impregnable fortress during its prime, and you can still see the stone walls where the major parts of the castle were previously located. In this article, we'll introduce tourist information and travel tips for anyone planning to visit Nanao Castle. The video introduces the breathtaking scenery of Nanao Castle, a vast area located on a mountain ridge in the forests of Japan. For those who have studied or are interested in Japanese history, it paints a good picture of what the Sengoku Period (Japan's warring states period; around 1467 - 1615 AD) was like. Exploring the History of Nanao Castle Photo:Nanao Castle inner bailey ruins, Nanao, Ishikawa Nanao Castle is a mountain castle with a "kuruwa" (castle wall) on each of the seven ridges: Matsuo, Takeo, Umeo, Kikuo, Kameo, Torao, Tatsuo. There are still references that show it was also referred to as "Matsuo Castle," written both "松尾城" and "末尾城" (same pronunciation different kanji/spelling). Nanao Castle was built in the first half of the 16th century as the residence of the Hatakeyama Clan, a Japanese samurai clan who governed the province of Noto. It is a fortified castle that is said to be one of the Five Great Mountain Castles of Japan, and it fell after a roughly year-long battle with Uesugi Kenshin's forces. After that, Oda Nobunaga appointed Maeda Toshiie as Lord of Noto giving him the castle, however, after Toshiie moved to Kanazawa Castle, Nanao Castle was abandoned. Nanao Castle - Highlights and Tourist Information Photo:The view from Nanao Castle, Nanao, Ishikawa Nanao Castle is a large mountain castle. Highlights of Nanao Castle include the many stone walls that remain in nearly the same condition they were in hundreds of years ago, as well as the scenery of Nanao Bay and the Noto Peninsula which can be seen from the top of the mountain. The climbing route to reach Nanao Castle is covered with wood chips, but we recommended wearing shoes that are easy to walk in. If you want to climb from the foot of the mountain, you can use the Nanao Castle Trailhead Parking Lot (七尾城登山口駐車場), or you can park your car in the parking lot of the Nanao Castle History Museum and purchase a Nanao Castle Seal Stamp or a memorial stamp of the Top 100 Castles of Japan before starting your hike. At the Nanao Castle History Museum, visitors can explore exhibits such as excavated items related to Nanao Castle and reconstructions of Nanao Castle via computer generated architecture. In addition, the Nationally Registered Cultural Property "Kaikokan" (the former Iida family residence), which is adjacent to the museum, is another tourist attraction worth checking out. The time required to climb the mountain is about ~40 minutes from the parking lot of the Nanao Castle History Museum, following the formerly used road to the honmaru (inner citadel) ruins. There is also a 150-minute course for those looking to really explore and conquer the vast grounds of Nanao Castle. Photo:Nanao Station If you visit Nanao Castle via public transportation, you can reach the Nanao Castle History Museum from "Nanao Station" on the JR Nanao Line by taking the city circuit bus "Marin-go" (まりん号) and getting off at "Joyama no Sato" (城山の里). From there it's about a 60-minute walk. The stone wall of the Sakurababa Bailey Ruins above Chodo-maru (a former weapon's warehouse) is shown at 0:40 in the video, and the stone wall of the Honmaru Ruins at 2:42 are some of the highlights of Nanao Castle. There's also a shrine in the honmaru, and the scenery you can see from the Nanao Joyama Observatory, which is known to have been praised by Uesugi Kenshin, is shown at 3:52 in the video. Summary of the Nanao Castle Ruins This video, titled "Nanao Castle in ISHIKAWA, JAPAN / #34 of the Top 100 Castles of Japan|4K," introduces Nanao Castle, a formerly impregnable mountain castle in Ishikawa Prefecture, in beautiful 4K. Be sure to refer to this article and visit Nanao Castle if you're planning on traveling in Noto! 【TripAdvisor】Nanao Castle Ruins https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g1021236-d1424256-Reviews-Nanao_Castle_Ruins-Nanao_Ishikawa_Prefecture_Hokuriku_Chubu.html