This video, titled "[Eng sub] 5min Easy Watercolor | Tree Painting tutorial," was released by "Watercolor by Shibasaki." In this lesson, Harumichi Shibasaki teaches tips for watercolor painting that are easy to understand even for beginners. In this lesson, you'll learn how to paint a realistic watercolor painting of a broad-leafed tree, such as the zelkova. The key to painting trees realistically is to be aware of the areas where the light from the sun hits and the areas in shadow. Then, using the dry brush strokes of a drained dry brush, I rough out the shape of the leaves. Enjoy how the colors gradually deepen on the canvas as if by magic.

Hornets V.S. Japanese Honey Bees This video is titled "Small Japanese Honeybees Unite to Repel an Invading Hornet｜Nat Geo" (スズメバチを撃退するニホンミツバチ | ナショジオ). The video is produced by "National Geographic." To repel the wasps, which are several times larger than they are, the Japanese honeybees use a special technique in which they cover the body of the wasp and quite literally cook it alive. Please enjoy the awesome footage shown in the video! Japanese Honey Bees Photo：A honey bee The Japanese honey bee is an insect of the order Hymenoptera and family Apidae. It is a living species that has been inhabiting Japan since ancient times. In addition to Japanese honey bees, there are other types of bees, including the dwarf honey bee and giant honey bee. These bees help pollinate flowers and grasses and make wax from the pollen in their nests in trees and under houses. The flower nectar has been processed and sold for a long time as products such as honey, propolis, and royal jelly. Most Japanese honeybees live in the wild, and those that are kept in captivity are released into the wild to collect pollen and take it back to their hives. The non-native honey bee species, the western honey bee, often helps with pollination in agriculture. Japanese honeybees live in large areas of Japan and can be seen all over Japan, excluding Hokkaido, Okinawa, and some remote islands. In addition to living in the mountains, they can also be found in urban areas, and although they are said to be endangered, the Japanese are very familiar with them. Also, unlike the hornet, the Japanese honeybee has a warm personality and is famous for not stinging people often. Combined with their cute appearance, they have a good reputation in foreign countries. You don't need a special license to keep them, and anyone can do so, provided they file the proper documents. Japanese Hornets. How They're Different From Honey Bees Photo：Adult hornets While Japanese honeybees feed on the nectar of flowers, adult hornets feed on nutrients secreted by their larvae. The larvae feed mainly on insects, and capture and feed on smaller insects such as honey bees in order to grow. These differences in feeding habits are due to differences in the body structure of the adult hornet. Adult hornets have a narrowing between their chest and abdomen, which prevents them from ingesting solids, such as insects. It's also very different in that the larvae of the Japanese honey bee makes honey, whereas the larvae of the wasp does not. Hornets V.S. Japanese Honey Bees - The Showdown Source :YouTube screenshot As you can see from the video at 0:13, hornets often attack honeybees to feed their young. In particular, the giant hornet is so ferocious that it invades the nest of bees and attacks not only adult bees but also larvae and pupae. The bee's response to such an attack is the killer heat ball that can be seen at 0:24 in the video. This takes advantage of the weakness of the hornets, as we all know bug types are weak to fire. The bees, rather than using their stingers, form up on the hornet, attaching themselves to it and creating a ball of bees. In the video, 500 Japanese honey bees can be seen covering the hornets. The internal temperature of the Japanese honeybee rises to 47.2° C (117° Fahrenheit), and the increase in carbon dioxide repels the hornets. Summary of Honey Bees V.S. Hornets Did you enjoy learning about the fierce war between honey bees and hornets? The amazing counter attack of the bees shows just how amazing nature is!

Shigeru Takagi, the Japanese Man Helping to Clear Mines in Cambodia This video, titled "Shigeru Takagi Helps Clear Land Mines in Cambodia" (カンボジアで地雷除去する高木茂さん), introduces Shigeru Takagi, a Japanese man taking part in Peace-Keeping Operations (PKO) in Cambodia. Shigeru Takagi was previously enrolled in the Japan Ground Self-Defense Force (JGSDF). While serving in the JGSDF, he requested to participate in peace-keeping operations but unfortunately denied permission to do so. After retiring, he was invited by his previous boss to work for the Japan Mine Action Service (JMAS). He currently works clearing mines in a village in Cambodia near the border of Thailand. You can see the current mine situation in Cambodia and listen to Shigeru Takagi in an interview in this video. Cambodia - A Country Covered in Land Mines Left Over From the Civil War Photo：Unexploded ordnance Even now, Cambodia suffers as a result of the civil war. In the late 1900's, around 2 million people were killed in Cambodia during Pol Pot's totalitarian regime. Currently, there are thought to be approximately 7-10 million former Soviet Union and Chinese land mines buried across the country. Even now, after the war has ended, children are unable to play freely outside, as the mines pose a huge risk to their safety. From 1:13 in the video, you can see children studying in an elementary school surrounded by land mines. Shigeru Takagi has helped remove land mines from places where people are at risk of being injured. He plans to continue removing land mines in the hope of eventually clearing Cambodia of mines completely. Shigeru Takagi Teaches Cambodian Citizens How to Safely Remove Mines Source :YouTube screenshot From 2:02 in the video, you can see women wearing heavy safety clothing and helmets (weighing approximately 10 kg) searching for land mines in the scorching 35℃ weather. After a land mine is found, the area is taped off for safety and the mine is detonated. You can see an explosion at 2:32 in the video. As you can see from 2:45 in the video, Shigeru Takagi not only participates in mine-clearing activities but also teaches how to safely remove buried land mines. He currently teaches courses for Cambodian citizens and explains things, such as the differences between anti-tank land mines and anti-personnel land mines. Shigeru Takagi talks of the importance of not only removing the mines but also of working with the government to support people who have been injured by the mines. He also expresses that he hopes the number of mine-clearing vehicles and devices will increase, in order to speed up the mine-clearing process. Summary of Shigeru Takagi, the Japanese Man Helping Clear Mines in Cambodia Source :YouTube screenshot This video was created by Kyodo News. It features Shigeru Takagi who is currently participating in mine-clearing activities in Cambodia. At the end of the video, Shigeru Takagi expresses his gratitude for being given the chance to participate in this huge project and says he has no regrets about joining. We hope through this video you learned more about the current land mine situation in Cambodia and about one Japanese man's efforts to bring peace to the country. The Japan Mine Action Service is currently still looking for more volunteers. If you were moved by the information in this article and would like to contribute towards mine clearance in Cambodia, consider supporting the Japan Mine Action Service! 【Official Website】Non-Profit Organization Japan Mine Action Service https://en.jmas-ngo.jp/?doing_wp_cron=1595986947.6080920696258544921875

Japanese Radio Exercise! This video "Radio Exercise Phase Version 06｜English Version" (「ラジオ体操第バ06_英語」), was created by Tokyu-Kensetsu (東急建設) for English speakers in Japan. In Japan, radio exercise is a traditional custom where people perform exercises to music with guidance from radio broadcasts. Radio exercise was introduced to Japan to improve physical strength and maintenance and development of good health. What kind of exercises are there? How did it start? Let’s take a look! What Is Radio Exercise? A Look at the History Photo：Elementary school students doing radio exercises The history of radio exercise goes back to 1920. The idea originally came from the Metropolitan Life Insurance Co. of the U.S as part of daily exercises. The first radio exercise was broadcast to the public on NHK radio in 1928. Since then, it has been modified little by little to the current Radio Exercise 1, established in 1951. Besides Radio Exercise 1, the one introduced in the video, there are other types of radio exercise such as Radio Exercise 2 and 3, and Minna no Taiso (exercise for everyone). The Health Benefits of Radio Exercise Photo：Attendance card for radio exercises The radio exercise contains of 13 types of exercises in a particular order. As you see in the video, the exercise starts with stretching (0:11) and ends with deep-breathing (2:56), a total of 3 minutes 15 seconds. It helps you stay in shape and lose weight, as it makes you stretch the muscles of your entire body. During summer vacation, local organizations and community associations gather children and perform radio exercises together every morning. Each child has an attendance card and gets a stamp each time they attend the radio exercise gathering. The radio exercise serves to prevent inadequate physical activity in children, as well as have children interact with local communities. Where Can I Find Radio Exercises? Photo：Radio In Japan, radio channels still broadcast the radio exercise to music. Radio exercise usually begins with a piece of opening music and a greeting from the instructor, and after the music finishes, Radio exercise 1 begins. During the broadcast, they also introduce a supportive exercise and a neck exercise. The radio exercise is also broadcast on TV. Be sure to check out when it broadcasts! You can also find the radio exercise on an App, videos online, or CD. Choose one that is most convenient for you. The Recap of Radio Exercise Photo：Woman doing radio exercises Radio exercise is effective for improving health, so it has long been loved by Japanese people. Even today, radio exercise is introduced at events for children, at offices before the day begins, and also done by people feeling they need more exercise. Be sure to check it out! It'll help you get into a daily routine and feel more awake.

This video, titled "【ENG Sub】How to make Japanese Painting "NIHONGA" -from Sketching to completion-," was released by "Nihonga Painter Miwa Hiduki." The process for making great pictures is 1. Sketching 2. Rough outline 3. Tracing 4. Outlining 5. Coloring After deciding on a motif, you can start sketching. Try expanding on the motif shown in the video and sketching. In the video she uses tracing paper and transcribes the rough sketch. The next step is to outline, an important step in Japanese painting. Once the outlining is complete, the coloring begins. Check out the beautiful sketches shown in the video. It will stimulate your creativity!

This video, titled "[Handmade] How to Make a Bamboo-Copter" (【手作り】たけとんぼの作り方), was released by "Ekapyon Maru" (えかぴょん丸). There are many bamboo forests in Japan, and various tools and toys have been made from cut bamboo since long ago. The bamboo-copter shown in the video is a popular toy that is easy to make. Bamboo-copters require thin blades that act as propellers and a stick that is used to build up momentum. The way in which the wings are shaved changes the way the bamboo-copter flies, so it's important to make the wings very thin. The finished bamboo-copter can be flown and played with as shown at 6:48 in the video. If making your own is too difficult, you can buy bamboo-copters from grocery stores, candy stores, and online as well!

A Look at the Japanese Badger This video, titled "[Japan's Wildlife] the Ecology of Badgers｜A Cute Animal That Looks Like a Bear but Isn't (Japanese Badger)" (【日本の動物】アナグマの生態〜クマのようで熊ではない可愛い動物〜(Japanese badger)), introduces the Japanese badger. Japanese badgers look like bears, but as you'll see in the video, they are actually quite different. Let's take a look at Japan's native badger species! About the Japanese Badger Photo：Japanese badgers Japanese badgers belong to the family Mustelidae and order Carnivora. The scientific name of the Japanese badger is "Meles anakuma." The Japanese badger is 40 to 60 centimeters in length and weighs about 12 kilograms. They're light brown in color, similar to that of bears. A characteristic of the Japanese badger is their sharp claws. Japanese badgers are nocturnal and omnivorous animals and live in units called "clans." When the temperature drops below 10 degrees Celsius, they enter hibernation. They inhabit forests in Honshu (本州), Shikoku (四国), and Kyushu (九州). The average lifespan for a wild Japanese badger is 10 years. In the video you can see two cute Japanese badgers playing, running around, and taking naps. Japanese Badgers - Viewed as Pests Photo：A badger walking on snow Japanese badgers have warm personalities and do not scare easily. Unfortunately, because they often feed on the crops of farmers, they are seen as pests. Some restaurants in Fukuoka, Kagoshima, and Kyoto actually serve badger meat as game dishes. The Diverse Wildlife Found in Japan Photo：Japanese weasel There are other animals similar to the Japanese badger, such as the raccoon dog (tanuki), masked palm civet, raccoon, and the Japanese weasel. There's an ancient Japanese proverb "Onaji ana no Mujina" (同じ穴の狢), which, translated to English, goes "Badgers of the same hole." It basically expresses that all these animals are of the same type, although they are quite different. It's similar to "Birds of a feather" or "Villains of the same stripe." Breeding Japanese Badgers? Source :YouTube screenshot Japanese badgers are quite friendly. Even when people come close to it, it sometimes moves closer to them, albeit with their tail between their legs like a cat. However, if they are provoked, they may threaten other animals with fierce warning calls. They are not prohibited from being kept as pets, but it's a bit difficult to actually keep them, as you won't be able to bring them to an ordinary vet if something happens. Summary of Japanese Badgers In this article we gave a quick overview of the Japanese badger. Recently, Japanese badgers have been featured on news broadcasts as they've been seen coming down to towns for food, due to increasing deforestation. We'll have to do our part to preserve the forests so that humans and animals can coexist.

An Introduction to Japanese Weasels! The video「二ホン イタチ(mustela itatsi)　カワウソのような泳ぎ・素早い走り　Japanese Weasel-Swimming and running　Donnola -nuoto e corsa」, was created by “AndreaNature.” The Japanese weasel (Mustela itatsi) is a mammal similar to the Japanese otter, and is endemic to Japan. Their body size ranges from 27 to 37 centimeters in length for males and 16 to 25 centimeters for females, with a weight range of 290 to 650 grams for males and 115 to 175 grams for females. Their fur is a brownish-red to a yellowish-orange, and it belongs to the genus Mustela in the family Mustelidae. It is similar to the masked palm civet or the Japanese marten in appearance, and makes squeaking sounds. Its average lifespan is 1.9 years. You wouldn't be able to tell that something so cute was so vicious, just by looking at it. A Look at the Endangered Japanese Weasel Source of photo :YouTube screenshot This video was shot in Moriya city, Ibaraki, in Japan's Kanto region. In this video, we see the Japanese weasel swimming under ice starting around 1:05, swimming in the water around 1:33, and running wildly about at 3:05. The Ecology of Japanese Weasels Source of photo :YouTube screenshot Japanese weasels don't hibernate, and are active throughout the year. They use holes and crevices as nests, but they generally just prefer any sort of hole, regardless of it being their den. Japanese weasels are solitary animals that are active during the day and night. They live near bodies of water such as rivers, lakes, and bogs, and are excellent swimmers thanks to their webbed hands and feet. At around 1:35 in the video, they can be seen swimming about, just like otters. They eat meat but also eat plants as well, making them omnivorous. Japanese weasels were introduced to Tokyo as a form of pest control. Its natural predators are birds of prey such as hawks and owls, and mammals larger than the Japanese weasel, such as foxes and cats. Japanese weasels didn't originally inhabit in Hokkaido. However, they were unintentionally brought there by ships that some Japanese weasels had snuck onto, and landed in the region. Most of the Ezo weasel (Ezo Itachi, エゾイタチ) species in the literature refer to the Ezo Okojo (Mustela erminea Orientalis), which is a slightly smaller species than the Japanese weasel. The Non-Native Siberian Weasels (Mustela Sibirica) Photo：Japanese weasels Siberian weasels were also introduced to the Honshu region as non-native animals. They used to only inhabit Tsushima in Japan's Kyushu region, but after the Manchurian Incident, it was introduced to Japan and raised for fur production. Unfortunately, Siberian Weasels won the competition for survival against the Japanese Weasel and expanded their territory. Therefore, Japanese weasels are listed on the IUCN Red List as a near threatened species and as endangered species in both Saga prefecture and Osaka prefecture. They are also designated as a game animal by Wildlife Protection and Hunting Management Law. There are three major differences between Japanese weasels and Siberian weasels. The first one is the tail. Siberian weasels have a longer tail (about 21 cm) than Japanese weasels. The second is weight. Siberian weasels weigh twice as much as Japanese weasels do; the largest ones can reach sizes up to 850 grams. Third is body color. Siberian weasels are more yellowish than Japanese weasels, and Japanese weasels have grey hair around their eyes. Summary of the Japanese Weasel Source of photo :YouTube screenshot What'd you think about the Japanese Weasel? Although this animal is indigenous to Japan, it's difficult to see these days. We hope you enjoy the rare footage of these cute critters!

Tsuneo Matsuo is a doctor who has examined the large intestine of more than 40,000 people. He is a specialist when it comes to intestines and has published many books. Matsuo was one of the first promote "Fermented Cuisine" and "Mediterranean Cuisine" as effective in cultivating a healthy gut, and has proposed the term "Mediterranean-style Japanese Cuisine." He believes that the secret to longevity lies in certain Japanese and Italian ingredients. Bu what are these ingredients? Watch this video to find out and you'll be on your way to cultivating a healthy gut!

This video, titled "Katana long sword, with no inscription, attributed to Masamune," was released by "Virtual Sword Museum 'Sword World'" (バーチャル刀剣博物館「刀剣ワールド」). The sword shown in this video is an inscriptionless sword said to be attributed to Masamune, which is said to have been made in the early years of the Nanboku-cho period. It is said to have been worn by Emperor Komei​, the father of Emperor Meiji, and has a stylish look to it. Masamune, who is said to have made this sword, learned the techniques as a pupil of Shintogo Kunimitsu, the most famous swordsmith in Kamakura, and created a masterpiece that expresses the essence of the Soshu den　Style of swordsmithing. These master swords, with their elegant brilliance, are made with the wisdom of the swordsmith. We invite you to take a closer look at these beautiful swords.

Beigoma - Traditional Japanese Tops! This video, titled "[Beigoma- 1. Tie it 2. Wind it 3. Hold it 4. Let it rip! - Tokyo Beigoma]" (「ベーゴマの、1.ヒモの作り方、2.ヒモの巻き方、3.持ち方、4.投げ入れ方　｜　東京ベーゴマ」), is created by "Tokyo Beigoma" (東京ベーゴマ). The video is an introduction to Beigoma for beginners. This video clearly explains how to play with Beigoma and also teaches basic techniques for spinning Beigoma that are often difficult for beginners. After watching the video, you'll be on your way to becoming a Beigoma master in no time! If you're a total beginner, don't worry, this video has you covered! Traditional Japanese Beigoma Photo：Beigoma showdown Koma are ancient Japanese toys said to have originated in Heian period (794-1185) Kyoto when people played by spinning shells with string. Beigoma is a kind of Koma (Japanese spinning top) made of cast metal. It was a popular toy among kids from the Taishō period (1912-1926) to Japan's economic boom. To play Beigoma, you make a playing board by stretching a thick fabric sheet partially over a bucket or a barrel, and players spin their Beigoma onto the surface and have them bang against one another. Although Beigoma is an old toy, there have been many more people playing with Beigoma, Menko (an old Japanese card game), and other old-fashioned toys, due to a revived interest in old‐fashioned goods. Also, there are "new" Beigoma based toys such as Beyblade (ベイブレード) and Beigoma Spin Heat (ベイゴマスピンヒート), which are very popular among kids and sold at toy stores and online. Beigoma competitions are also becoming popular. The smartphone app "Beigoma Stadium" (ベイゴマスタジアム) is popular among adults as well. There are various types of Beigoma. Pecha (ペチャ) is the thinnest Beigoma and is harder to control but quite strong. Pe-oh (ぺ王) is the most difficult to control but is the most powerful. Chu-daka (中高) is short but easy to spin. Maruroku (丸六) is the best for beginners. Kakuroku (角六) is easy to spin and is also quite strong. Taka-oh (高王) is about 1.5 times the size of Maruroku, and Bay (バイ) is easy to spin and lasts a long time. Beigoma players also modify their Beigoma and make their own original versions. How to Play Beigoma Source :YouTube screenshot Now we'll introduce how to play Beigoma. First, make a string to wrap around the Beigoma (video 0:07). Tie the string and make a few knots. Next up is the winding process. There are several ways to wind the string, such as Onnamaki (女巻き), Otokomaki (男巻き), and Jujimaki (十字巻き). In this video, we'll learn Onnamaki. (~2:14). First, make sure the tip of the Beigoma sits between the knots on the string. From here, press and hold the end of the string onto the Beigoma with your thumb, and wind the string around the beigoma while keeping the pointed tip of the Beigoma between the knots. Next, wrap the string counterclockwise around knots while holding the string tightly with your fingers to prevent it from unraveling. Wrap it slowly in a circle, and your done! Next we'll learn how to hold the Beigoma. Hold it with your thumb and index finger, and wrap the rest of the string around your pinky and grab ahold of it. (~3:34) Source :YouTube screenshot Finally, let your Beigoma rip! (~4:11) Make sure not to throw it at an angle when launching it onto the playing board. Place your right foot close to the board, making sure to launch the Beigoma on the board, and as soon as you launch it, pull the string tightly. Summary of Traditional Japanese Beigoma Photo：Beigoma Did you enjoy learning about Beigoma? The video gives simple instructions on how to play with Beigoma, so even if you've never done it before, don't be shy! You'll be able to throw some awesome Beigoma in no time! If you're interested in traditional Japanese toys, be sure to check out the video!

A Recipe for the Popular Neapolitan Pasta! This video, titled "Quick and Authentic! The Family Favorite Neapolitan Pasta! One-Pan Dish! Party Kitchen Cooking Recipes" (簡単本格！懐かしの『ナポリタン』の作り方【ワンパン】【料理レシピはParty Kitchen】), teaches you how to cook the popular Neapolitan pasta with easy to follow instructions and a touch of humor! Neapolitan spaghetti is, contrary to what most people expect of pasta, a traditional Japanese-style pasta dish using vegetables and tomato ketchup. Neapolitan spaghetti is a typical dish served at cafes and European-style restaurants all over Japan. After watching this video, you're sure to want to have a go at making this delicious pasta dish which has evolved with Japanese cuisine over the years. How Did the Neapolitan Pasta Dish Come to Be a Part of Japanese Cuisine? Photo：Neapolitan pasta Neapolitan pasta, named after the city Naples in Italy, may lead many people to believe it's an Italian recipe; however, this dish was actually created in Japan. It dates all the way back to post-war Japan. Due to the lack of food resources after the war, hotels had to come up with new ways to provide delicious food at a relatively low cost, and in doing so, created the Neapolitan spaghetti dish. Neapolitan spaghetti gained huge popularity in the Showa period (1926-1989 AD) in Japan. Hachioji city (八王子市, hachioujishi) in Tokyo even has its own special version of the dish using locally sourced ingredients called Hachioji Neapolitan which is quite popular. How to Make Neapolitan Spaghetti Source :YouTube screenshot One of the great things about this dish is that it can be made in a single frying pan, and tastes just as good as a dish you'd get at a restaurant. Check out the video to find out how it's made! For starters, as you can see at 0:13 in the video, you'll need to fry sliced onions, green peppers (sliced into rings), mushrooms, and thickly sliced bacon in a pan with some olive oil. Next, boil the pasta following the instructions on the packet (1:28) and once the boiling water has evaporated add in the ketchup and Worcestershire sauce. From there, add in the already softened vegetables and mix to cover the spaghetti and vegetables in the sauce. Finally, season to taste with salt and pepper, adding a little butter for creaminess and top it with powdered cheese and parsley to finish. Just looking at the prepared dish with its deep red sauce and healthy amount of vegetables is enough to make your mouth water! You can see the completed dish at 2:40 in the video. Summary of the Neapolitan Pasta Recipe Photo：Neapolitan pasta ingredients We hope you enjoyed the Neapolitan pasta recipe video. Be sure to have a go at making this surprisingly easy yet delicious Japanese dish the next time you feel like having some italian! Don't forget to use the video as a guide too! If you're coming from overseas, we highly recommend trying out this Japanese classic. There are many well-established restaurants specializing in Neapolitan spaghetti that are well worth the visit! Also take a look at the many variations on the dish that can be found on the Japan Pasta Association website below. 【Official Website】Japan Pasta Association｜packed with pasta recipes! https://www.pasta.or.jp/ 【Official Website】Hachioji Neapolitan http://8napo.com/

Introducing the Interior of the Tower of the Sun The video "Opening of the Interior of the Tower of the Sun," (「太陽の塔」内部を公開), released by SankeiNews, is a video about the reopening of the interior of the Tower of the Sun after the repairs and refurbishing completed in March 2018. The Tower of the Sun is a major work of art by artist Taro Okamoto, and is registered as a tangible cultural property of Japan. This article introduces the interior of the exhibit. The video introduces the restored 'Tree of Life' and the 'Sun of the Underworld'. The dynamism of the interior takes viewers to another world. About the Tower of the Sun Source :YouTube screenshot The Tower of the Sun was built together with the "Tower of Mother," the "Tower of Youth" and the "Big Roof" as part of the Japanese theme pavilion at Expo '70 in Osaka in 1970. At 70 meters tall, with 25-meter-long arms, it's a gigantic piece of art. The golden face, located at the top, represents the future, and is 11 meters in diameter. The Face of the Sun, resting between 2 arms, represents the present, and the face on the back (the Black Sun) represents the past. Xenon arc lamps were used in the eyes of the Golden Face during the Expo. Originally, another face, the 'Sun of the Underworld' was located at the basement floor, but it went missing after the Expo. This 'phantom face' was eventually restored in the refurbishing work. The newly restored 'Sun of the Underworld' appears in the video at 0:50. The gallery inside displays the massive piece "Tree of Life" (1:13), which represents the evolution of creatures. Modern technology enabled these objects, originally attached to the artwork, to be restored. Only a model of gorilla with a damaged head (1:35) remains the same. The video navigates viewers through the tower's artistic interior, reminiscent of another dimension. The Tower of the Sun: Visitor Information Source :YouTube screenshot The Tower of the Sun is located at the Expo Commemoration Park in Suita, Osaka Prefecture, Japan. It has been off limits since the event ended, but the prefectural government began refurbishing the tower's interior in 2017 and reopened it in March 2018. An event called 'Rebirth of the Tower of the Sun' was held to celebrate its reopening. Admission is by internet reservation only, and tickets are not sold on the day. To go by train, get off at Osaka Monorail Line Banpaku-kinen-koen Station and follow the slope to the park. Most people visiting by car use the Nihonteien-mae Parking Lot. Summary of the Tower of the Sun Source :YouTube screenshot The video "Opening of the Interior of the Tower of the Sun," introduces the reopening of the inside of the amazing artwork that has been loved as a symbol of the park for years. Enjoy the masterpiece of Taro Okamoto shown in the video. Go to the official website of the Tower of the Sun for more information and tickets. A museum shop located inside of the artwork stocks a variety of exclusive goods, including the popular "Tower of the Sun figurine" We hope this article has inspired you to visit the amazing work of art! ◆The Tower of the Sun - Museum Info◆ 【Address】1-1 Senribanpakukoen, Suita, Osaka 565-0826 JAPAN 【Access】Banpaku-kinen-koen Station 【Admission fee】Adults: 720 Yen (~$7 USD), Children: 310 Yen (As of April 2020) 【Opening Hours】10:00～17:00 【Closures】Please see the official website 【Parking】None 【TEL】0120-197-089 【Official Website】The Tower of the Sun https://taiyounotou-expo70.jp/en/ 【Tripadvisor】The Tower of the Sun (Banpaku kinen koen) https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g1023474-d1407905-Reviews-The_Tower_of_the_Sun-Suita_Osaka_Prefecture_Kinki.html

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.

The Honda Super Cub The "Super Cub", shown in the video "[The Power of Dreams Theater] vol.01_ “Super Cub Riders” |スーパーカブ　ライダーズ," is a motorcycle built by the Japanese company Honda (Honda Motor Co., Ltd.). The Honda Super Cub is a famous motorcycle model loved around the world, and the total number of units produced worldwide has exceeded 100 million. The Honda Super Cub series is the only motorcycle brand that boasts high economy and durability, and has been on the market for more than 50 years. In both name and reality, it can be said to be the best motorcycle on the market. In Japan, the Super Cub has a strong image as a delivery motorcycle, but because of its lovely round lights and front cover design, on top of being extremely durable and long-lasting, the used Super Cub market is more popular in Southeast Asia than in Japan. As you can see in the video, the Super Cub is tremendously popular, especially in Vietnam, where many people love it as a daily commuter bike for school and work, as well as a leisure motorcycle for dates and touring. In the 90's, Super Cubs reinforced with custom parts were often featured in Japanese anime and manga, so it's likely that they are the most recognizable motorcycle/scooter in the world. The History of the Honda Super Cub Photo：Super Cub The Honda Super Cub series has a long history, beginning with the C100, which was launched in 1958 and has been on the market for more than 50 years. A moped (motorized bicycle) is a vehicle between a bicycle and a motorcycle with an auxiliary engine kit, but the C100 is said to have revolutionized the world's motor scene with its performance and durability, surpassing that of mopeds and scooters in the same class. The transmission system was rotary and clutch operation was adopted, eliminating the need for hand lever operation, and a wide range of improvements were made to the parts, making the C100 easier to operate and more fuel-efficient than other bikes in its class. The basic structure was also passed down until 2010. It is said to have a range that even Honda's development team could not have imagined. It also has a rear box at the back of the saddle, which can carry a large load for this class of motorbike. The Inspiring Story of the Super Cub Riders in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam Source :YouTube screenshot The video in this article is an official video produced by Honda Motor Company. It's a heartwarming story of Super Cub riders searching for a lost boy and cat in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam. It was very popular and widely talked about. From 1:21 in the video, you can see the countless numbers of Super Cubs in the streets of Ho Chi Minh, Vietnam. The video is part of a series called "The Power of Dreams Theater," and the fact that the Super Cub is featured in the first episode shows its importance in Honda's product range. Summary of the Honda Super Cub Photo：A woman riding a Honda Super Cub It was announced that the Honda Super Cub’s domestic production would be stopped in 2012 due to the recession in Japan; however, thanks to the yen’s depreciation effect due to Abenomics and the recovery of the economy, a new model was announced in 2017. Around the world, it's a motorbike that is still in high demand. The new Super Cub types are categorized according to engine displacement, with a C125, 110, and 50 (the numbers are emissions), and the 110 and 50 class also come with a more durable pro series. Prices for the new Super Cub 50 start at ¥236,500 (~$2,200 USD). We hope you enjoyed learning about the Honda Super Cub! 【Official Website】Super Cub 50 / 110 | Honda https://www.honda.co.jp/SUPERCUB/personal/

This video, titled "A Unique Building in Ginza: Based on the Theme of 'Sukashibori' (16/06/15)" (銀座にユニークなビル出現・・・「透かし彫り」がテーマ(16/06/15)), was released by "ANNnewsCH." The Ginza Place building, which opened in 2016 at the Ginza 4-Chome intersection, has 11 floors above ground and two basement levels, and is based on a traditional craft called "Sukashibori" (openwork/pierced work/fretwork) that involves creating patterns on thin sheets of wood. It contains a Sony showroom, an event space, restaurants, and many other areas, and as a "landmark for creating the Ginza of tomorrow," it serves as a base for contributing to the creation of a district in Ginza that communicates new values and a future for the world from Japan. The architect in charge of the exterior design was Klein Dytham Architecture, an internationally acclaimed firm with a deep knowledge of Japan.

This video, titled "Trying the STAR ROAD special make with Akira Iida and Daijiro Inada ｜Full Throttle on the Winding Road and Nighttime Street Driving in the 30Z!" (飯田章 と 稲田大二郎 の STAR ROAD 特製 極上30Z で ワインディング全開走行 ＆ 夜のストリート爆走), was released by "VIDEO OPTION." Akira Iida, one of Japan's leading racers, and Daijiro Inada, a car tuning commentator, test drive the 30Z tuned by STAR ROAD and introduce the ride quality. This is a fascinating video that allows you to enjoy the amazing techniques of the racers. If you want a Japanese car, but don't know which one to buy, we recommend checking out this video! Even if you're not planning to buy a car, check out the video to get a taste of what it's like to drive a Japanese car! It's an action packed video that's well worth the watch!

This video, titled "Three Japanese Winners at the Lausanne International Ballet (10/02/2019)" (ローザンヌ国際バレエで快挙　日本人の3人が入賞(19/02/10)), was released by "ANNnewsCH." The news featured in this video is that three Japanese teenage dancers won prizes at the Lausanne International Ballet Competition, a gateway to young dancers, in 2019. Third place went to 18 year old Sumina Sasaki, from Higashi Osaka City, fourth place went to Yu Wakizuka, 17, from Osaka City, and eighth place went to 18 year old Mio Sumiyama, from Tokyo, who is currently studying at a ballet school in Zurich, Switzerland.

Ayatori! This video was created by "Ayatori Dekita!" Fun Lessons From Baaba!" The title of the video is "[Ayatori Shapes] Cradle, Rice Field, Diamond, a Japanese Hand Drum, a Ship, and a Rope Bridge. Slightly Difficult Techniques of Ayatori for Adults [Audio Commentary] String Figures / Baaba's Ayatori" (あやとりできた! ばぁばが楽しく教えるよ」が制作した『【あやとり連続技】ゆりかご・田んぼ・川・ダイヤモンド・つづみ・船・つり橋　ちょっと難しい変身あやとり　大人向け【音声解説あり】String figures / ばぁばのあやとり). The video explains advanced level Ayatori for adults, in a slow, easy-to-understand format. Be sure to check it out! What is Ayatori? Photo：Ayatori Ayatori is a game where you make different shapes with a string looped around your fingers. It's basically the same as cat's cradle, but the shapes/names are different due to cultural differences. Ayatori is also called "Itodori" and "Chidori," in different regions of Japan. It's a very popular game played by children all over the world. It is said to have a great effect on children's intellectual development because of the use of hands and fingers and using one's imagination to think of shapes and understand how to manipulate the string. Ayatori can be played with multiple players by taking turns and transforming the string into different shapes, or it can be played solo, as shown in the video. There are also people who do magic tricks that involve ayatori. The origin and the history of ayatori is unknown, but there is a theory that it started around the Heian period (794-1185) in Japan. Unfortunately there is no proof to back this theory. Basic Techniques and How to Play Ayatori Source :YouTube screenshot This video gives an easy to understand commentary on how to make different shapes for solo play ayatori. The video starts with a single string sitting in a loop on a table. From there, Baaba teaches viewers how to hold the string, and then how to make a cradle (3:04), a rice field (5:21), a river (6:09), a diamond (9:47), a Japanese hand drum (12:46), a ship (13:20), and finally a rope bridge (14:03). This video also gives tips on how to hold the string on your fingers and how to remove it from your fingers. There are a lot of cool techniques you can learn by watching it. Some other techniques, not shown in the video, include "rubber," broom, ladders, turtles, bridges, stars, and even Tokyo tower! Rubber and broom are relatively easy to make, so these are perfect for beginners. Overview of Ayatori Photo：A parent and child playing Ayatori Ayatori is a fun game that can be enjoyed with just a single piece of string! Be sure to watch the video to learn about some cool shapes that you can practice. It's also great for kids, so if you have some little one's of your own, be sure to try it together!

The Japanese Dormouse This video, titled "Chino Legacy - A Chino Legacy to Leave to the Future - #16 'Japanese Dormouse'" (茅野レガシー～未来に残したい茅野遺産～#16「ヤマネ」), introduces the cute Japanese dormouse, an endemic species of Japan designated a nationally protected species. The Japanese dormouse is a rodent found in Yatsugatake, which straddle Yamanashi and Nagano prefectures, as well as in low mountains and subalpine areas throughout Japan. During hibernation, the Japanese dormouse crawls into private warehouses and cottages to curl up and take shelter. so there is a possibility of encountering them unexpectedly. About the Japanese Dormouse Source :YouTube screenshot The Japanese dormouse is a small mammal that belongs to the order Rodentia along with squirrels and other rodents, and is of the family Gliridae, and Glirinae genus. As you can see from 0:10 in the video, it has a cute appearance with its round eyes and soft fur. Because it's designated as a nationally protected species, it is forbidden to catch them or keep them as pets. They are 6 to 8 centimeters long, with black vertical stripes along their backs and a bushy tail. They are omnivorous, feeding on insects and fruits. They are often found running around the forest in preparation for winter. As you can see from 1:19 in the video, they nest in tree trunks and cracks in rocks and can race up trees using their sharp claws. It is a very agile animal that can hang on thin branches and jump from branch to branch. They are nocturnal creatures that live in trees, so you won’t encounter them often; however, during winter, you may see them curled up on the ground hibernating. They are also called "Ball Mice" or "Ice Mice" based on their curled up appearance. A hibernating Japanese dormouse sleeps so peacefully that even if you rolled them around, they would not wake up. You can see a curled-up Japanese dormouse hibernating at 2:07 in the video. In spring, they return to their natural habitat in the mountains. The Japanese Dormouse - A "Living Fossil' Photo：Excavating fossils Fossils of Japanese dormice have been excavated from the strata of Europe and Japan from 50 million and 20 million years ago, respectively. In other words, it is believed that the Japanese dormouse has existed on Earth since about 50 million years ago, after the extinction of the dinosaurs. This would have been during the Cenozoic Era, a time when ammonites and marine reptiles became extinct, and mammals and birds prospered. This of course means that they existed long before humans came to be. Because the Japanese dormouse has not changed in ecology or form since these ancient times, it is referred to as a living fossil. After the advent of mankind, the Japanese dormouse was recorded as a delicacy eaten by noblemen in Roman times. They would put Japanese dormice in vases and fatten them up with nuts and then cook them. They were eaten on a daily basis as appetizers or desserts. The Japanese Dormouse as a Pet Photo：Japanese Dormouse Due to the Japanese dormouse being designated as a nationally protected species, it is not allowed to have them as pets in Japan. However, you will see types of dormice that live in Europe or Asia in pet shops. When having them as pets, having a nesting box, drinking water, bedding materials, and a running wheel should suffice. When they begin hibernation, they sleep for half of the year, earning them the name "Sleeping Mice"; be sure to arrange their living quarters so you can see them sleeping! When they wake up from hibernation, it's mating season and they attract females with high-pitched calls. If you keep them as a pair, be aware that breeding occurs during this period. Summary of the Living Fossil - The Japanese Dormouse Photo：Japanese dormouse Did you enjoy learning about the cute Japanese dormouse? We hope you were able to learn more about the biology of the Japanese dormouse, a once semi-endangered species and protected species in Japan. If you haven't yet, be sure to check out the video to see footage of this cute critter!

A video of Tetsuko Kuroyanagi showing what is in her bag? The title of the video is“Testuko Kuroyanagi, showing the items in her bag!” In this video, a popular celebrity, Tetsuko Kuroyanagi shows viewers items inside her bag. An item introduced in the video at 2:26, she shows her smartphone screen. You can see screenshot is a photo of her and another Japanese celebrity, Akihiro Miwa. In the video, she also shows her colorful wallet, makeup bag, her favorite panda collections and more. Who Is Tetsuko Kuroyanagi? Source :YouTube screenshot Testuko Kuroyanagi was born in 1933. Her talent agency is called Yoshida Naomi Agancy and her nickname is Chuck. She is 163cm tall with the blood type of A. She is not married and she will be 87-years-old in August 2020. After graduated from Tokyo College of Music, she became a member of NHK Hoso Gekidan to start her career as an actor. Currently, she has been working as an Japanese actress, a voice actress, a TV entertainer, and a TV hostess. She is also known for her charitable works. She is a Goodwill Ambassador for UNICEF as well as a peace activist. One example of her activism is her conservation work with Pandas. You can tell how much she loves pandas by watching the video at 0:26 where you see a post card of two pandas, and at 2:21 where we see her panda phone strap, and other panda goods. She is also a very successful essayist, and her work "Totto-Chan: The Little Girl at the Window," published in 1981, became the biggest bestseller of the post-war era, with 8 million copies sold in book and pocket paperback (bunkobon) form. Her mother, Cho Kuroyanagi, is also a well-known essayist and created many fantastic works of her own. Tetsuko Kuroyanagi’s Works! Photo：Showa TV Tetsuko Kuroyanagi is a popular celebrity who has been active in the entertainment industry since the early days of television broadcasting. When she was young, her cute appearance attracted many male viewers. She continues to attract attention as the host of Kohaku Uta Gassen, and various other programs and commercials. Her famous program "Tetsuko no Heya" (Tetsuko’s room) was recognized in the Guinness Book of World Records as the world record holder for the most talk shows broadcast by the same host. Despite concerns about her health in recent years, the show is still running as of 2020. More About Tetsuko Kuroyanagi Source :YouTube screenshot Tetsuko Kuroyanagi is known for her unique onion-shaped hairstyle. On TV shows, she sometimes surprises people by taking candy and other goodies out of her hair. She mentions this at 1:48 in the video. One of her signature dishes is Tetsuko Kuroyanagi Cake. It's a simple recipe that can be made with just biscuits, whipped cream and milk, but it tastes amazing. Summary of Tetsuko Kuroyanagi Source :YouTube screenshot The charm of Tetsuko Kuroyanagi is her cute and easygoing image. She also has a unique, smooth way of speaking which attract lots of viewers. She answers nine questions at 3:23 in the video. Lately she has been live streaming from her house on Instagram, using her smartphone. If this article has you interested in Tetsuko Kuroyanagi, be sure to check out her Instagram or some of her popular works!

Koichi Wakata: The First Japanese Captain of the ISS This video "Koichi Wakata: Proud to Be the First Japanese Captain of the ISS! (14/03/10)" (日本人初！若田さんISS船長に「和の心を大切に」(14/03/10))" is brought to you by ANNnewsCH. It introduces Dr. Koichi Wakata, who has become the first Japanese captain of the International Space Station (ISS). JAXA astronaut Koichi Wakata has accomplished the spectacular feat of becoming the 39th captain of the ISS. A special ceremony was held in the Japanese Experiment Module (日本実験棟, nipponjikkentou) "Kibo" (きぼう). The ceremony is normally held in the American Experiment Module, however as this is the first time a Japanese astronaut has assumed the position of captain, on this occasion the ceremony was held in the Japanese Experiment Module. You can watch the ceremony in the video from 0:23. During the ceremony, Koichi Wakata talks of how he is proud to be the first Japanese captain of the ISS and is looking forward to working with everyone. The right to command was passed on to Koichi Wakata from the previous captain of the ISS Oleg Kotov. Koichi Wakata was captain of the ISS for a total of 2 months until his return home to Japan. More About Koichi Wakata: The First Japanese Captain of the ISS Source :YouTube screenshot Koichi Wakata was born in Omiya city, Saitama prefecture and is an astronaut working for JAXA (Japanese Aerospace Exploration Agency). He has a Doctorates in Engineering and has been awarded the Kikuchi Kan Prize (菊池寛賞, kikuchikanshou). He graduated from Kyushu University (九州大学大学院, kyuushuudaigaku daigakuin) in March, 1989 and proceeded to work for Japan Airlines, also known as JAL. He was selected for the position of mission specialist for the National Space Development Agency of Japan (NASDA) in April 1992 and in January 1996 was the first Japanese mission specialist to take part in the STS-72 mission of the Space Shuttle Endevour. He mastered the difficult task of learning to control a robotic arm and succeeded in the retrieval of the SFU (Space Flyer Unit). He has completed four missions in space to date, including flights in American NASA space shuttles and Russian Roscosmos spacecraft. Koichi Wakata also made news after broadcasting videos of fun experiments performed in space, inviting viewers to send in their experiment ideas. In an effort to get children more interested in space, he performed various actions inside the space station such as folding clothes or arm wrestling the other astronauts. More About Koichi Wakata's Role Aboard the ISS Source :YouTube screenshot

Introducing Hollywood Actress Sukezane Kiki! This video, titled "Sukezane Kiki Prepares for Her Trip! What's Inside the Hollywood Actress' Suitcase?!" (ハリウッド女優の豪快な旅支度。祐真キキのスーツケースの中身とは？), was released by "VOGUE JAPAN." Sukezane Kiki is attracting worldwide attention as an actress who achieved the American Dream. What kind of talent is the Japanese Hollywood actress who has starred in hit American TV dramas? In this article we'll take a look at her career and what she's up to, as well as what's inside her suitcase! The Career and Activities of Sukezane Kiki! Source :YouTube screenshot Sukezane Kiki, real name Sukezane Kie, is a Hollywood actress from Kyoto. During her second year of high school, she moved to the United States alone, where she worked on humanitarian and environmental issues. When she was 23, she moved to Los Angeles, auditioning for a wide range of roles. Then, in 2015, she gained popularity when she was selected to play Miko Otomo, a main role in the American NBC TV drama "HEROES REBORN." She reportedly learned English through her boyfriend's after moving to the US, but they have apparently separated and she now lives with a different man. In 2019, it was reported that she was diagnosed with acoustic neuroma and had surgery to remove a tumor. Sukezane Kiki's Overseas Activities! Source :YouTube screenshot Sukezane Kiki, with her bewitching looks, has appeared in movies, dramas, and commercials, including the popular American TV drama series "HEROES REBORN." One of the charms of Sukezane Kiki is her beautiful, dance-like sword fighting and action moves. Sukezane Kiki comes from a family of Kyoto samurai, and she's no stranger to action filming. Sukezane Kiki appears in "HEROES REBORN" as well as in the Netflix drama "Lost in Space." Be sure to check it out! he video showcases the contents of Sukezane Kiki's suitcase when she went overseas. It's packed full of various things, such as her party bag shown at 1:08, and the alarm clock at 1:22. There are also scripts, souvenirs, sweets, and fashionable makeup tools. Summary of Sukezane Kiki Source :YouTube screenshot Did you enjoy learning about Sukezane Kiki, the popular Japanese actress active in Hollywood? You can find out more about Sukezane Kiki's personal life on her Instagram. Be sure to check out the popular Japanese actress Sukezane Kiki!

The Powerful Sport, Jukendo! This video is titled "銃剣道 其の一 Jukendo PART1." Jukendo is a sport/martial art that looks very similar to Kendo. You wear protective gear similar to Kendo, but it uses a wooden gun with a bayonet to attack with mainly thrusting techniques as opposed to a shinai's slashing techniques. The guns are modeled after the rifles used by the old Japanese military, which had a rifle with a blade tip, and the sport is also called Jukenkakuto and other names. Because it is a very practical martial art, it has been incorporated into police and self-defense force training. Although the number of people who practice Jukendo is low, it was once a common martial arts class, and has been seen at national athletic meets, national championships, and national youth competitions. Basic Knowledge and Skills of Jukendo Source :YouTube screenshot The wooden gun, weighing 1.1 kg, with an overall length of 166 cm, is one of the most distinctive features of Jukendo. You can see it at 0:13 in the video. It is said that the Japanese style of Jukendo is the origin of modern Jukendo, whereas the western style of Jukendo was integrated with kendo. Historically, it is said to have originated at the end of the Edo period, when the style of fighting changed from swords to guns, and the tips of swords or daggers were attached to the tips of imported guns to be used as bayonets. The Rules of Jukendo Source :YouTube screenshot The rules of Jukendo were established by the All Japan Jukendo Federation, and nowadays it has become a competitive martial art. The rules are basically a one on one format, and fighters win by scoring strikes to the upper body, stomach, lower body, throat, wrist, and shoulder. Matches are held barefoot on the floor with no shoes on. You can see basic techniques at 1:03 in the video. The Appeal of Jukendo Source :YouTube screenshot In the video, you can see an interview with a Jukendo practitioner at 2:14, where he talks about the appeal of the martial art. Jukendo is a grueling sport, originally designed to kill with a combination of gun and sword, aiming at the left side of the chest where the heart is located, or the throat, but they all say with a smile that they are so happy when they win a match after rigorous training that all of the hardships along the way were worth it. Unlike a bamboo sword, Jukendo uses a weapon that is larger and heavier than a wooden sword, so if you're hit on the hand by your opponent, you may actually experience broken fingers. Therefore, in Jukendo, body parts that are easily targeted by thrusts are protected by thick armor. Hand wraps are also worn to minimize injury. Summary of Jukendo Source :YouTube screenshot Hiratsuka Tsuchizawa Junior High School in Hiratsuka City, Kanagawa Prefecture, the only school in the country that adopted Jukendo as a class, decided to end the class in 2018, and it became a widely talked about subject. However, the topic has increased awareness of Jukendo, and now it is said that the competition population is gradually increasing, with the number of dan (titles) recipients and female players on the rise. In all Japanese martial arts, it is important to train the mind and body and start and end with a bow. In particular, foul play is severely punished because there is a risk of serious injury if an offense is committed. It can be said that the key to aspiring to and becoming strong in Jukendo lies in the steady training of the body and mind. 【Official Homepage】All Japan Jukendo Federation http://www.jukendo.info/english