Traditional Japanese Cultures – Tea Ceremony, Flower Arrangement, Calligraphy, Kendo, and Archery: Video Introduction This video, titled "IS JAPAN COOL? DOU - 道 (THE TANGIBLE MANNER)," was uploaded by "ANA Global Channel." The video begins with an atmospheric Japanese bamboo grove, followed by scenes of martial arts such as iaido and kendo using Japanese swords, as well as calligraphy and archery. The beautiful images and the sound of taiko drums provide a glimpse into the various "Ways" of Japanese culture, including the classical Japanese performing arts of Noh theatre and Nihon buyo (classical Japanese dance). In Japanese "Dou" (道, Road/Path), in the context of traditional Japanese cultures, means "The Way." Some of the most common of these traditional cultures are as follows: Kendo (剣道) Kendo (剣, Sword) (道, Path) or "The Way of the Sword" Sado (茶道) Sado (茶, Tea) (道, Path) or "The Way of Tea" Kado (華道) Kado (華, Flower) (道, Path) or "The Way of Flowers," a type of flower arrangement Shodo (書道) Shodo (書, Writing) (道, Path) or "The Way of Writing," more commonly known as calligraphy Kyudo (弓道) Kyudo (弓, Bow) (道, Path) or "The Way of the Bow," more commonly known as archery Traditional Japanese Cultures and 'The Way' Photo：The kanji for 'Way' When it comes to Japanese culture, many people probably think of things like kendo and tea ceremony. "Dou," or "The Way" helps convey the history and wisdom contained within these traditional Japanese cultures. In fact, it's still not widely known that there are numerous "ways" in Japan. For starters, calligraphy (書道, Shodo), tea ceremony (茶道, Sado), and flower arrangement (華道, Kado), widely known as traditional Japanese culture, are collectively referred to as Sando (三道) or "The Three Ways." Even today, they are popular as training activities. There are also nine types of budo (武, War) (道, Path) or "The Way of War," including judo, which is popular around the world as an Olympic sport, kendo, kyudo (traditional Japanese archery), sumo, karate, naginata, aikido, jukendo, and shorinji kenpo. In addition, there are iaido, jodo, tatedo, and kobudo. There is also kodo, (香, Aroma) (道, Path) or "The Way of Aromas," which involves burning incense to enjoy their fragrance. There are many lesser-known forms of martial arts in Japan as well. Did you know that there are more Shinto shrines and Buddhist temples in Japan than there are convenience stores in the entire country? Even Japan's native religions, Shinto (神, Gods) (道, Path) or "The Way of the Gods," Butsudo (仏, Buddha) (道, Path) or "The Way of Buddha," and Shugendo (修, Discipline) (験, Test) (道, Path), or literally "The Way of Discipline and Testing." Learning More than Simply the 'Way' Photo：A judo gi So what is learned from these traditional Japanese cultures? Let's take the aforementioned "Budo" (martial arts) as an example. Japanese martial arts are similar to sports, as they are competitive and use a set of established rules. However, budo emphasizes spirituality. It's said that Budo is a form of "Bushido" (武士道), the "Way of the Warrior," a way to improve one's spirituality and character, particularly civility and morality. Budo is not only about winning matches, but also about becoming a better person by training one's mind, techniques, and physique through daily practice and discipline. Let's take a look at what you can actually learn by studying martial arts. ●Etiquette and Perseverance Martial arts are said to begin and end with a bow. Through martial arts, students learn to be considerate of others while keeping their emotions in check, and through repeated training, they also acquire patience and perseverance. ●Increased Concentration When competing against an opponent, one must pay attention to the opponent's movements and be ready to respond to the opponent's attack. This requires a high level of concentration. By continuing to practice, you will strengthen your ability to concentrate. Other benefits include increased flexibility of the shoulder blades and hip joints and increased metabolism, and it can also be practiced by men and women of all ages. If one's spirituality is enhanced through "budo," one may be able to calmly deal with unpleasant situations in real-life relationships or at work. Not limited to martial arts, in Japan, there are countless classes and dojos related to "ways," such as kado (華道, flower arrangement), sado (茶道, tea ceremony), and kyudo (弓道, archery), and many people practice them because they enable them to learn the Japanese spirit of harmony and etiquette. Popular Japanese Cultural Experiences Among International Tourists Photo：Kado Here are some Japanese cultural experiences that are popular among tourists visiting Japan. First, there's tea ceremony. Tea ceremony is a uniquely Japanese cultural experience that is popular among foreign tourists because of its refined etiquette and the Japanese spirit of wabi-sabi. Flowers are universally loved. In kado, a type of flower arrangement and purely Japanese culture, one learns not only how to arrange flowers, but also how to entertain guests and how to appreciate life by decorating flowers and plants. Unlike standard flower arrangement, the artistic ikebana experience, which also teaches the beauty of the space between the flowers, is becoming more and more popular every year. Another popular Japanese cultural experience among foreign visitors to Japan is kimono. As you can see in the video showing traditional Japanese dance and Noh theatre, many people associate Japan with kimono. In Kyoto and other sightseeing spots, people are often seen wearing kimono as well. Summary of Traditional Japanese Cultures and 'The Way' Have you checked out the video to learn about the different "ways" of Japan? It's a beautiful video filled with the charms of traditional Japanese cultures, dignified movements, and wabi-sabi. Like we mentioned, there are many "ways" that even Japanese people are not familiar with. The traditional Japanese cultures or "ways" aren't just about techniques, but also growing as a person and honing one's character. Perhaps you can use the inspiration you've found from this article to find your own path?

Video Introduction This video, titled "[Kazumi Style] How to Put on a Yukata for Men" (Kazumi流男ゆかたの着かた How to put on Yukata for men), was uploaded by "kazumiryu." There are few chances to wear yukata in Japan, summer festivals, fireworks displays, and other summer events, are a few such occasions. You might also get the chance when staying at a ryokan (traditional Japanese inn) or hotel during a vacation. However, since there are so few opportunities to wear yukata, even in Japan, when it comes time to put one on it can be quite the challenge. Being able to wear a yukata cool and comfortably will make you look nice and stylish! If you're looking to learn how to put on a men's yukata, then you came to the right place! Be sure to check out the video as you follow along! How to Properly Put on a Yukata. Right? Left? Which Side Goes on the Outside? Photo：A man and woman wearing yukata at a hot spring inn Yukata are always provided when staying at a hot spring resort in Japan. Many people do not know how to properly wear one, so they just throw it on and call it good. Some may say, "Well, no one's watching so, who cares?", but there is one point you need to be aware of. While it might be okay to throw it on without caring about how well it's shaped, you should at least know which side goes in and which side goes out. As long as you remember right hand in, left hand out, you shouldn't have too many problems. It may be easy to make a mistake when wearing a yukata or kimono if you're not used to the undergarments, etc. In the case of yukata, kimono, and other Japanese-style clothing, it's said to be bad luck to wear the left side in and the right side out. This is because this is how the deceased would be dressed in burial clothes. Be careful not to make this mistake! Wearing a yukata at a ryokan is fairly easy, but it's important to first select a yukata that is appropriate for your height. Since the length of the yukata is can't be adjusted like women's yukata, choose a size that sits above your ankles when worn. 1. Wear the robe so that it is evenly distributed on both sides. 2. Wrap the right side of the robe around the left hip while holding both sides of the yukata. While doing this, hold the left side firmly so your other hand is taut. 3. Wrap the left side of the yukata around the right hip, and tie the obi (sash) in a bow above the hip bone or below the belly button. 4. If you are a man and want to wear the yukata in a cool way, turn the knot clockwise and shift it to either the left or right side of the back. Be careful not to turn the obi around to the opposite side, as this will cause the yukata to become loose. Everything You Need for Wearing a Men's Yukata! Photo：Yukata at a hot spring inn Next, we'll go over how to make a yukata look more dignified. we'll explain, how to look cool while wearing a men's yukata. First, here's what you'll need in order to put on a yukata: ・Yukata ・Hadagi (undergarments) ※If you don't have hadagi, a v-neck shirt will do ・Koshi-himo (waist cord) It's recommended that you wear undergarments that fit to prevent the yukata from clinging to your body due to perspiration. A koshi-himo (waist cord) will keep the yukata firmly in place and keep the yukata looking great without falling out of place. In recent years, there are elastic waist cords whose length can be adjusted as well. Tips for Putting on a Yukata for Men Photo：A man wearing a yukata There are several points to keep in mind when wearing a yukata as a man. Let's look at them together. ・Right Side In As mentioned above, the yukata should be worn with the right on the inside. Be careful not to get this backwards. ・Wear a Yukata Appropriate for Your Height For men, it's especially important to choose a yukata that is appropriate for their height. This is because men's yukata are not adjustable like women's yukata. ・Be Careful Where You Tie the Waist Cord The waist cord should be tied above the hip bone or below the belly button. If you tie it too high, it will look childish. How to Put on a Yukata for Men + Pointers Photo：Putting on a yukata Now that you have everything you need to wear a yukata and you're familiar with some of the do's and don'ts, it's time to put it on. Below we will tell you how to put it on, along with some tips. In particular, a beautiful V-line around the neck will make you look cool in a yukata. 1. Put on the undergarments. 2. Put on the yukata and keep the waist cord over your right shoulder. 3. To wrap the yukata tightly around the hips, grasp the collars firmly with both hands and pull them forward. At this time, make sure the left side seam is hanging straight down. 4. Check the position of the yukata in your left hand, as this will be the side that goes on the outside. Once the yukata is in place, return your hands to their original positions while making sure that the height does not change. 5. Pull the yukata held in your right hand diagonally down to the left, and hold it around your left waist with the side held in your left hand on top, as if to cover the yukata. 6. Place the koshi-himo (waist cord) in front of the stomach, slightly above the hip, and wrap it around your waist on both sides. Cross it behind your back and tighten it once. When tightening, pull in your stomach and tighten it really tight so that it knocks a little bit of air out of you, and then bring the waist cord to the front. 7. Tie the waist cord in one knot on either side, avoiding the middle. The end of the cord should be tucked inside. 8. Finally, place your right hand inside the bosom of the yukata and lightly tap it downwards to adjust the shape of the yukata. A tight collar is recommended for beginners. Summary of How to Put on a Yukata for Men This video ends with only the dressing of the kimono, but on kazumiryu's channel, they explain and obi knot called "kai no kuchi." This knot is often used for men's yukata, be sure to check it out with us! If you want to wear a yukata to a festival, Bon Odori, fireworks display, or other traditional Japanese event, but don't have one, you can always use a kimono rental store. When you wear a yukata, you'll naturally look more graceful. Women tend to be noticed for their gorgeous yukata, but as a man, if you know how to wear a yukata properly, you'll stand out just as much. One of the most important parts is getting that defined v-line to make the yukata look even better. If you go out to one of Japan's summer festivals dressed in yukata while wearing geta shoes, you're sure to have a memorable experience!

The Lives of Ordinary People in the Taisho Era! This video, “1914-1918 (Taisho 3-7) the life of the common people and "Akatonbo"（1914～1918(大正3年～大正7年)庶民の暮らしと「赤とんぼ」）”, shows how Japanese people lived during the Taisho era. The photo was taken by the American salesman, Elstner Hilton. The song used in the video is "Akatombo," a famous Japanese nursery rhyme written by Miki Rofu, and composed by Kosaku Yamada. Before the war and during the First World War, the photographic techniques were not very well developed, so these photos are quite invaluable. Please enjoy the life of Japanese people that has been passed down to the present day through about 2.5 minutes of video. What Was the Taisho Period Like? Source :YouTube screenshot The Taisho era was about 100 years ago, during the reign of Emperor Taisho from July 30, 1912 to December 25, 1926. During this period in Japan, after the Meiji Restoration, "Taisho democracy" aimed for the development of democracy. Also, World War I occurred during the Taisho era. The Taisho era is a short period of only 15 years, but it is also an indispensable period for talking about modern Japanese history. The Clothes, Food, and Lifestyles of the Common People in the Taisho Era Source :YouTube screenshot Clothes fashion appeared in the Taisho era, but many people still wore kimonos. At 1:16 in the video, a woman washing a kimono in the river is also shown. As you can see in the pictures, men usually have short hair and women generally have one hairstyle. At 0:28 in the video, there is also a figure of an easy-going fortune-teller on the roadside. At 0:35, a man knitting a basket of traditional handicrafts is photographed, and at 0:44, traditional Japanese daruma making is shot. In addition, the video features a series of photographs that show how people lived in Japan at the time. The hearth shown at 1:08 in the video, was indispensable for the lives and meals of the common people, and helped them survive the harsh winters. Also introduced at 1:56 is a performing arts culture called monkey loops. It was a recreation among ordinary people at the time without TV and internet. Summary of the Life of the Common People in the Taisho Era Source :YouTube screenshot This time, we introduced a video showing photos of life in the Taisho era. You can see how the common people lived at the time from the precious photographs. Many smiling people appear in the photos. In the Taisho era, a war broke out and forced many people into poverty, but even still, their hearts remained rich.

Video introduction of "Yakurai Garden," a famous flower spot in Kami County, Miyagi Prefecture This video, titled “Rainbow Flower Garden｜A Beautiful View of Rainbow-Colored Flowers at Yakurai Garden, a Famous Spot for Flowers in Miyagi Prefecture in Japan's Tohoku Region｜Travel To Miyagi Japan｜BMPCC6K” (Rainbow Flower Garden 虹色の花が美しい やくらいガーデンの絶景 東北・宮城の花の名所 | Travel to Miyagi Japan | BMPCC6K), was released by “Japan Videography.” It introduces Yakurai Garden (やくらいガーデン) in Kami, Miyagi Prefecture, a place famous for its flowers. It was Halloween season when the video was shot, and Yakurai Garden's park was decorated with many cute jack-o-lanterns to celebrate the occasion. During spring and fall, when the weather is particularly nice, the park offers a variety of events that allow visitors to see a myriad of colorful flowers in full bloom. The LED lights and seasonal decorations add to the atmosphere of the park, creating an exciting space. Yakurai Garden has more than 400 varieties of plants in full bloom from season to season. There are several flower fields at Yakurai Garden, and at the far end of the garden there's a small hill called "Rainbow Garden Fululu no Oka" (虹色ガーデン ふるるの丘) where you can enjoy a panoramic view of the flowers in full bloom. The beautiful flower garden at Rainbow Garden Fululu no Oka can be seen from 2:57 in the video. Red, purple, yellow, white, orange, and other colors are spread out creating a carpet of rainbow colors. If you're ever in Miyagi Prefecture, be sure to check out Yakurai Garden. The beauty of the flowers in full bloom is sure to captivate you! What are the features of Yakurai Garden, Miyagi Prefecture's flower garden? Photo：Yakurai Garden, Miyagi Prefecture Yakurai Garden is a vast area of 150,000 square meters with eight themed gardens, including a rose garden, herb garden, and more. The park is open from mid-April to late November when the colorful flowers are at their best. Admission is 800 yen for adults and 200 yen for elementary and junior high school students. Yakurai Garden, which has many limited-time fairs and seasonal events, as the types of flowers you can see change with the seasons, also has a chapel which can be seen from 2:38. It’s a very popular place for weddings. Pledging eternal love while surrounded by candles under the starlight makes for one of the most romantic weddings imaginable. There's also an herb store popular among women, a beer hall with local beer popular among men, and a family-friendly restaurant where you can enjoy lunch at a reasonable price. The herb store at Yakurai Garden also offers aromatherapy, garden interior design, and arts and crafts classes for both parents and children. When is the best time to see the rape blossoms at Yakurai Garden? Introducing seasonal flowers The 2024 "Yakurai Garden" is scheduled to open on April 20. According to the official Instagram postings, in 2023, rape blossoms and tulips will be at their best around the time of the opening; nemophila in mid to late May; and tulips and rape blossoms in early May. The rape blossoms at Fururu no Oka will be at their best from the end of May to early June, so why not take pictures of the spectacular view of the rape blossoms from the green benches or in front of the pink doors? In 2023, roses bloom in mid-June, and a "Rose & Herb Fair" was also held from June to July. Summary of Yakurai Garden, a Famous Spot for Flowers in Miyagi Prefecture Photo：Yakurai Garden, Miyagi Prefecture The Yakurai Garden area has been redeveloped as Yakurai Resort. As a result, the area around Yakurai Garden is full of lodging facilities, such as pet friendly cottages and hot springs, and affiliated hotels for you to stay at. The resort is a popular picnic area in the summer and in the winter it's popular as a ski resort, with ski slopes for children as well, so families can enjoy the resort all year round. For the dads out there, we recommend the restaurant Bunarin, which has an all-you-can-drink local beer plan! Enjoy the beautiful, out-of-this-world scenery at Yakurai Garden! ◆Yakurai Garden｜Facility Overview◆ 【Address】1 Ajigafukuro Yakuraihara, Kami, Kami, Miyagi Prefecture 【Access】Approximately 40 minutes by car from JR Furukawa Station and 40 minutes by car from the Furukawa I.C. on the Tohoku Expressway 【Hours】10:00 - 17:00 【Admission】Adults 800 yen, children 200 yen (elementary and junior high school students) 【Closures】Open from early April to late November; open irregularly in April, July, August, November, and December; open May, June, September, and October without holidays 【Parking】Available, 800 spaces 【Telephone】0120-677-273 【Tripadvisor】Yakurai Garden https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g1120951-d1386236-Reviews-Yakurai_Garden-Kami_machi_Kami_gun_Miyagi_Prefecture_Tohoku.html

Gunkanjima's Instagrammable Scenery This video is "Gunkanjima (Hashima) 4K vide (軍艦島（端島）4K映像)" produced by "Nagasaki Travel" (長崎観光). There are many famous sightseeing spots and scenic spots in Nagasaki, but one tourist attraction that has been attracting more and more attention in recent years is Gunkanjima, a Heritage Site of Nagasaki's Industrial Revolutionary. In this video, we'll introduce the role played by Gunkanjima in Japan's industrial revolution, and the current situation of the island in beautiful 4K images. Nagasaki was only open to the west during the isolation period (around 1185 AD to 1333 AD). Traders who moved to Nagasaki at the end of the Edo period brought with them the latest technology to modernize Japan. One such shipbuilding technique led to great advancements in Nagasaki. One of the assets that contributed to Japan's industrial revolution is the World Cultural Heritage site Gunkanjima. As the powerful name “Gunkanjima” indicates (軍艦- Gunkan "Warship," 島- jima "Island"), the gorgeous scenery that shines on the ocean is so powerful that it overwhelms onlookers. It is extremely popular with young people as a sightseeing spot for taking Instagram photos. You can see its powerful appearance in the video. Please enjoy the beautiful, historical "Gunkanjima." Mistakenly Bombed as an Actual Warship? Photo：View of Gunkanjima Hashima, the official name of Gunkanjima, is an uninhabited island floating in the southwest sea of Nagasaki Port. From the Meiji era (1868 to 1912 AD) to the Showa era (1926 to 1989 AD), it became the base island of the "Mitsubishi Hashima Coal Mine," that did undersea mining in the area. One isolated island off the coast of Nagasaki was transformed into an island that symbolized the industrial revolution of modern Japan. Eventually, a series of large coal-drilling plants began popping up, and housing and related facilities were built to house the miners and their families. Because these structures look like warships from a distance, it came to be called "Gunkanjima." Atstands out from 1:00 in the video, you can see the island's awesome appearnce. There is a story about the U.S. military mistakenly bombing Gunkanjima Island during the Pacific War because they thought it was a warship. Also, those facilities, show at 0:30 in the video, now remnants of the Meiji Industrial Revolution, symbolize the Japanese coal industry and culture from the Meiji period to the early Showa period, that took place on Gunkanjima. The Forgotten, Ruined Island Remembered as a World Heritage Site Photo：Gunkanjima During the coal industry's peak, Gunkanjima exceeded the population density of Tokyo. However, the mines were hollowed out and abandoned after the war. Gunkanjima was closed later, in 1974. It turned into a ruined island with no population and a cluster of dilapidated buildings with exposed rebar, and it became a no-go zone due to danger of collapse. Gunkanjima, which had been forgotten for a while, has come into the spotlight in the last few years. The robust image of "warships" that gave it its name, and the recent "ruin boom" that made it the setting for films such as 007, attracted a lot of attention. In 2015, Takashima Coal Mine and other surrounding facilities were registered as world cultural heritage sites, and the public's interest in Gunkanjima increased dramatically. It is now popular as a famous tourist attraction in Nagasaki where you can experience the history of modern Japan. The only way to get to Gunkanjima is boat. Many Gunkanjima cruise tours are organized by Gunkanjima Concierge, and you can also land on Gunkanjima if the weather is nice. In 2019, landings were temporarily banned due to the detection of fiber materials suspected of asbestos, but it has now been reopened. Japanese Landscape Culture Tours Photo：Flower garden at Huis Ten Bosch Among the historic tourist destinations of Nagasaki, Gunkanjima has become one of the top sightseeing spots in Japan's landscape culture tours due to its newfound scenic beauty and its rarity of being inaccessible in certain weather conditions. The area around Nagasaki's Gunkanjima has some fascinating hidden gems that attract tourists not only for the scenery but also for the food. We recommend gathering information in advance and planning your trip carefully, including hotels, accommodations, and accessibility. The sightseeing spots you'll want to visit once you arrive in Nagasaki are "Mt. Inasa," "Huis Ten Bosch," "Nagasaki Electric Railway (tram)," "Nagasaki Atomic Bomb Museum," "Nagasaki Biopark," "Glover Garden," "Unzen Jigoku," "Nagasaki Penguin Aquarium," “Nagasaki Ropeway," "Kujuukushima Pearl Sea Resort," "Peace Memorial Statue," "Dejima," "Unzen Hot Spring," "Megane Bridge," "Ōura Church," "Nagasaki Shinchi Chinatown," and more. Also, when you visit Nagasaki, you will find local gourmet dishes such as "Nagasaki Castella," "Champon," "Turkish Rice," "Sara Udon," "Shippoku," "Milkshakes," "Chirin Chirin Ice," "Sasebo Burger," "Lemon Steak," and "Kanzarashi". Summary of Gunkanjima We hope that the video has helped you understand why Gunkanjima was selected as a World Cultural Heritage Site, and the appeal of Gunkanjima as a tourist attraction. Hopefully there are many people who were fascinated by this video and want to visit the island and see it's beauty! Actually visiting the island is unlike anything you can experience through a video. Gunkanjima is the hottest tourist spot in Kyushu and Nagasaki right now! ◆Overview of Gunkanjima (Hashima) ◆ 【Address】Takashima-cho, Nagasaki City, Nagasaki Prefecture 851-1315 【Official Website】Nagasaki sightseeing / travel portal site Nagasaki trip net https://www.discover-nagasaki.com/ 【Official Website】Gunkanjima landing cruise http://www.gunkanjima-cruise.jp/ 【Tripadvisor】Gunkanjima https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g298568-d1384788-Reviews-Hashima_Island-Nagasaki_Nagasaki_Prefecture_Kyushu.html

The Life of an International Student at a Japanese High School This time, we would like to introduce the video "A day in a Japanese High School // japan vlog # 1," where you can see the life of a Canadian high school girl studying in Japan. With over 3 million views, this video has become popular all over the world. Sophia, the person who took this video, studied Japanese through textbooks and YouTube education channels before studying abroad. She went to Japan for a study abroad program called Rotaly and stayed there for 11 months. We can see the life of Japanese high school girls from the perspective of foreign students. It's a chance for even Japanese people to learn something they might not have noticed about their daily lives. Let's take a look at the daily scenes and routines of international students attending Japanese schools. Japan's School Uniforms Source :YouTube screenshot As you can see from 0:16 in the video, high schoolers in Japan have uniforms designated by the school. Among high school girls who care about fashion, finding fashionable ways to wear their uniforms is part of everyday life. Sophia also looks in the mirror in the morning to make sure everything is in order. Many school uniforms are sailor uniforms or blazers. In fact, school uniforms are so important that some students choose a school strictly based on how cute or cool the school uniform is. The Daily Commute for a High School Girl in Japan Source :YouTube screenshot Next is the school scene in Japan, which you can watch from 0:45 in the video. Japanese high school girls go to school by train, bus, bicycle, or on foot. This video shows a group of girls going by train. Sophia seems to have about a 20 minute commute to school. The Everyday Classroom Life of a High School Girl in Japan Source :YouTube screenshot You can see Sophia arriving at school around 2:29 in the video and greeting her friends. Japanese classrooms generally have about 40 students per class, with wooden desks arranged in 5-6 rows. Even now, many schools still use blackboards and chalk, but they are gradually switching to electronic blackboards and whiteboards. Students study all day in these classrooms. You can also see children diligently doing class work and preparing for exams. They also study English as well, but the high school students in the video seem to be quite shy. Source :YouTube screenshot One of the fun things in school life is lunch time. You can see this at 5:42 in the video. Japanese high school students bring their own lunch boxes or buy and eat lunch at the school cafeteria or shop. As you can see at 7:08, when all the lessons are over, students clean the classroom by themselves. Groups of four or five students are assigned to clean the school grounds each week, and when it's their turn, they stay until all of the cleaning is finished. This cleaning custom is one of the characteristics of Japanese school life and has been very well received by the international community. Many elementary and junior high schools also have this practice. Summary of a Day in the Life of a High School Girl in Japan Photo：School classroom How'd you enjoy a day in the life of a high school girl in Japan? We think that it's good to get a glimpse of the daily lives of those who grew up in a different culture, in order to see a different perspective. If you look at school life in Japan from the perspective of an international student, there's probably a lot of differences. Learn about the life of a high school girl in Japan through this video!

Video Introduction This video, titled "Cape Kiritappu, Hokkaido｜Wild Sea Otters Floating in the Sea｜2020" (北海道霧多布岬 ぷかぷか浮かぶ 野生のラッコ 2020), was uploaded by "Shinji kawamura." The video captures endangered sea otters playfully swimming and relaxing at Cape Kiritappu, a place where you can encounter otters, foxes, and other wildlife of Japan. It's a great place for taking Instagram photos as well, so be sure to check it out. Don't forget to follow along with the video! Sea Otters – An Endangered Species on the Decline in Japan Photo：A raft of sea otters The main habitat of wild sea otters is the area from the California coast through Alaska and the Aleutian Islands to the coast of the Kamchatka Peninsula. Overfishing has led to a decline in the wild population, and it's estimated that more than 3,000 sea otters perished when an oil tanker ran aground in Alaska. Although the number of sea otters in the wild temporarily declined to less than 2,000, active conservation efforts have helped the population recover to more than 100,000. On the other hand, the number of sea otters kept in aquariums in Japan has continued to decline from 122 in 1994, and by 2021 there will be only 4 in Japan. Sea otters, which are designated as an endangered species, are prohibited from being imported from outside of Japan. Currently, because of declining reproductive capabilities and aging populations, further breeding of sea otters kept in Japan becoming more and more difficult. Because of this, it's not unlikely that there will come a day when sea otters can no longer be seen in aquariums in Japan. Where to See Sea Otters in the Wild in Japan Photo：Cape Kiritappu, Hokkaido There was a time when wild sea otters were no longer seen in the waters around Japan due to overfishing, but since 1980, there has been a string of sightings along the eastern coast of Hokkaido. In recent years, wild sea otters have been seen in Japan mainly in three areas along the eastern coast of Hokkaido. One is Cape Kiritappu, which is introduced in the video, and the others are Cape Nosappu in Nemuro, which is located on the northeast side of the cape, and Moyururi Island, an uninhabited island off the Kombumori fishing port between Cape Kiritappu and Cape Nosappu. Breeding has been confirmed on both Cape Kiritappu and Moyururi Island. Of these three locations, the highest probability of observing wild sea otters from land is at Cape Kiritappu. The sight of wild sea otters, both parents and offspring, floating in the sea, is both funny and cute. [Video] 0:19 - Wild Sea Otters Swimming With Their Offspring in Their Arms Sea Otters at Cape Kiritappu - The Best Times and Where to See Them Photo：An otter Wild sea otters can be seen throughout the year around Cape Kiritappu. However, your chances are low during bad weather, such as fog or high waves. It's said that the chance of seeing sea otters on a clear day is only a 1 in 3 chance, so weather is also an important factor. The best place to see them is where the waves are most calm. The probability of seeing them is higher on the north side of the cape and around reefs. If you're lucky, you can see wild sea otters up close, but we recommend bringing a telescope or binoculars in order to clearly see their appearance, behavior, and facial expressions. You can check out the sea otters napping and eating in the video. [Video] 1:50 - Sea Otters Relaxing and Taking Naps [Video] 4:28 - Sea Otters Eating Shellfish off Their Stomachs Summary of Otters at Cape Kiritappu The number of sea otters kept in aquariums has drastically decreased due to difficulties in breeding in Japan. Wild sea otters, on the other hand, a species that once vanished due to overhunting, can now be seen in the waters around Japan. The eastern coast of Hokkaido, where sightings are particularly common, is now quite popular. Cape Kiritappu is a popular spot to see rare wild sea otters from land. If you happen to see them during a visit to the area, consider yourself lucky! 【TripAdvisor】Cape Kiritappu https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g1120924-d1553698-Reviews-Kiritappu_Cape-Hamanaka_cho_Akkeshi_gun_Hokkaido.html

Video introduction of the original capybara open-air bath at Izu Shaboten Zoological Park in Ito City, Shizuoka Prefecture. This video, titled "Capybara with mandarin orange on head in the open-air bath☆みかんを頭にのせるカピバラ 伊豆シャボテン動物公園【元祖カピバラの露天風呂】," was released by "HIRO@sea." The video shows capybaras enjoying a relaxing soak in an open-air bath. The capybaras can be found at the Izu Shaboten Zoo, in Futo, Ito City, Shizuoka Prefecture in Japan's Tokai Region. Just like humans, the capybara enjoy a warm bath. The water is filled with yuzu, a type of citrus fruit. You can see the capybara with a yuzu on its head at 1:46 in the video! In this article, we'll introduce the Izu Shaboten Zoo and its open-air capybara bath. The Izu Shaboten Zoo Photo：Izu Shaboten Zoo The Izu Shaboten Zoo is a theme park in Futo, Ito City, Shizuoka. The Zoo is known for animals and cacti. The zoo was opened around 60 years ago, in October of 1959. The 200,000-square-meter park, which opened around 60 years ago in October 1959, has a greenhouse with cacti and succulents from all over the world. There's also kangaroos, capybaras, anteaters, squirrel monkeys, red pandas, chimpanzees, ponies, wild birds, the ever-popular motionless bobwhite stork, and a variety of other animals. The zoo is home to around 800 animals and birds, including flamingos, peacocks, and fennec foxes. The cacti are divided into five sections: the South American Pavilion, the African Pavilion, the Madagascar Pavilion, the Mexico Pavilion, and the Forest Cactus Pavilion. There are edible cacti available for tasting as well. In 2016, the official Japanese name of the zoo was changed from the former "Izu Shaboten Park" (伊豆シャボテン公園) to the current "Izu Shaboten Zoological Park" (伊豆シャボテン動物公園). A little to the east of Izu Shaboten Zoo, there's Izu Granpal Park, Izu Kogen Tabi no Eki Granpal Port, New York Lamp Museum & Flower Garden, and the Izu Oceanic Park Diving Center as part of the Izu Shaboten Zoological Park Group. Izu Shaboten Animal Park also has life-size replicas of a sculpture of ancient American civilization, and the entire Izu Shaboten Zoological Park Group has a wide range of attractions, from animals and plants to artifacts, park golf, the "Ship-shaped 3D Maze KAiZOKU," "Zip Line 風KAZE," "Water Balloons," and more. There's also "Wan Wan Park," a dog run where you can enjoy taking your dog, and the "Izu Kogen Grand Illumination," a hands-on style illumination. Nearby, the official hotels "Izu Shaboten Village" and "Izu Shaboten Village GLAMPING" can be found. You can fully enjoy your Izu Shaboten experience with an overnight stay at either one of these locations. The Open Air Capybara Bath Photo：Open-air capybara bath Firstly, what exactly are capybaras? Capybaras are members of the caviidae family of rodents, native to South America. They can be found from Panama to the northeast of Argentina. They are large (106-134 centimeters in length), have a gentle nature and are known to be very friendly towards humans. They tend to be found in groups of 10 to 20. A group of capybaras can be seen soaking in the bath together from 0:07 in the video. The open-air capybara bath shown in the video has been a tradition of the Izu Shaboten Zoo since 1982. At that time, the zookeepers were washing the exhibit with warm water when the capybaras began to soak in the puddles. Thereafter, the zookeepers came up with the idea of preparing warm baths for the capybaras. Now, the capybara bath has become a winter tradition. Nowadays, many zoos in Japan have introduced their own capybara baths, but the originator is none other than the Izu Shaboten Zoo. The zoo even has a capybara mascot known as "Capyba." Summary of the Izu Shaboten Zoo Source :【Official Website】Izu Shaboten Zoo Due to the coronavirus pandemic in 2020, to uphold social distancing rules, capybara and red panda plush toys are placed between seats at the zoo as well as the restaurant "Forest Animal Restaurant GIBBONTEI." The adorable image of the plush toys seated in the restaurant has generated buzz online, and has even been shown on the news. The plush toy and calendar can be purchased at the gift shop within the zoo. Many goods are also available on the official online shop "IZU SHABOTEN HONPO," so do take a look! Take a moment to relax and check out this heartwarming video. ◆Izu Shaboten Zoo Facilities Overview◆ 【Address】1317-13 Tomido, Itou City, Shizuoka Prefecture 【Access】From JR Atami Station, get off at JR Ito Station on the Ito Line, and take the Tokai Bus for Shaboten Zoo (~35 minutes). 【Admission Fee】Adults: 2,400 yen Elementary School Students: 1,200 yen Children (over the age of 4): 400 yen Discounts for groups, seniors, and persons with disabilities, as well as coupon deals, are also available. 【Hours】9:00-17:00 【Closures】None 【Avg. Time Spent Here】2+ Hours 【Parking】400 regular spaces, 500 yen｜Buses: 18 spaces, 1,000 yen 【Official Website】Izu Shaboten Zoo https://izushaboten.com/lang/index.html 【Tripadvisor】Izu Shaboten Zoo https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g298123-d1196864-Reviews-Izu_Shaboten_Zoo-Ito_Shizuoka_Prefecture_Tokai_Chubu.html

The Traditional Japanese Instrument: Koto We recommend this article to anyone interested in learning about traditional Japanese craftsmanship, or those who enjoy traditional Japanese instruments. In this article we’ll take a look at the "Koto," a traditional Japanese instrument that has been handed down for hundreds of years. The video “Introduction to the Manufacturing Process of the Koto" (琴の製造過程の紹介), produced by "Japanese Music Navi" (邦楽なび), features the manufacturing process of the Koto manufacturing company "Mitsuya Koto Corporation," in Saitama. The beautiful sound of the Koto is the result of age-old craftsmanship. This is a brief overview not only of how to make a Koto, but also about the history and style of the Koto. The production process of the Koto introduced in the video is so beautiful one cannot help be entranced by its beautiful chords. The BGM in the video is “Yaozoku bukyoku” performed on a Guzheng (another type of Chinese zither) made by the Mitsuya Koto Corporation. Be sure to listen closely as you watch the video. The History of the Koto Photo：Woman playing the koto The Koto is a traditional Japanese musical instrument. In the "Kojiki" (古事記, Records of Ancient Matters), there are scenes describing the playing of the Koto. In fact, remnants of what appears to be a koto have been found in Yayoi period ruins dating back to the 10th century BC. It is thought to have been used as a magical instrument at that time. Normally a koto has 13 strings but there was another type of Koto with 17 strings in the Edo Period. There are various types of Japanese stringed instruments, or "zithers": "Koto," “Sou," "Yamatogoto," "Ichigen goto" (a one stringed zither), "Nigen goto" (a two stringed zither), "Shichigen goto," (a seven stringed zither) and the "Nagoya harp." People often confuse the "Koto" and "So," but they are actually quite different. The biggest difference is that the Sou has a movable pole, called a "pillar," to adjust the pitch of the strings, while the Koto does not have a pillar, and the pitch is solely determined by where the strings are pressed. Other Traditional Japanese instruments besides the Koto include: Shakuhachi, Miyadaiko, Kodaiko, Naruko, Mokugyo, Sansen, Shamisen, Kokyu and the Biwa. The Type of Music Played on the Koto The music played on the Koto is called "Soukyoku" (筝曲, lit. "Koto Music." There are various music types such as the Tsukushi school, Yatsuhashi school, Ikuta school, the Yamada school, and more. Each school performs unique koto music. In terms of appearance, each school differs in posture and how the instrument in played. The shape of the instruments also differs from one school to the next. How a Koto Is Made Source :YouTube screenshot The manufacturing process of Kotos by the Mitsuya Koto Corporation consists of three main processes: "sawing," "instepping," and "wrapping," and the materials used are paulownia, red wood, rosewood, and silk threads. ・Sawing (0:08) The bark is stripped from trees one by one by hand. The length is then adjusted and it is marked. Next, they are cut into the shape of a koto and dried. Some are said to be dried for several years. ・Instepping (0:52) Using a number of special tools such as a planer and chisels, the insteps are carefully carved in detail. As you can see in the video, when the carving is finished, the instep is branded with the craftsman's name. After that, the surface of the Koto is baked evenly. The charred grain of the Koto looks beautiful. ・Wrapping (2:15) In this process, decorative accessories are created. These accessories are embedded into the Koto. ・ Completion (3:41) The beautiful wood grain and hand-embedded ornaments adorn the koto, making it look like a work of art. These masterpieces are a sight to behold. Summary of the Koto Photo：Koto This video features the detailed process of making the koto as well as the craftsmanship of the artisans. Take a moment to marvel at the craftsmanship. Kotos are available at online retailers such as Amazon or Rakuten. High quality goods are sold at the price of several million yen (thousands of dollars). If you are interested in the Koto, considering taking lessons or watching online courses. There are various lessons for both veterans and beginners. 【Official Website】Mitsuya Koto Corporation http://www.mitsuyakoto.com/

Osaka's Danjiri Festival: The Most Dangerous Festival in Japan? This video [2019 Danjiri Festival's Accidents and Unexpected Events]（令和元年　だんじり祭り　事故＆ハプニング集） is a video summarizing events that took place during Osaka's traditional Danjiri Festival. During the Danjiri festival, Danjiri festival floats are pulled along the streets at amazing speeds. They fly past the front of people's homes at full speed grazing street lights and barely avoiding crashes but unfortunately accidents do occur from time to time. This video contains a collection of exciting footage from the Danjiri festival, including accidents and other shocking scenes. Please enjoy the thrilling footage! What Is the Danjiri Festival? Source :YouTube screenshot The Danjiri festival is a traditional religious festival held in Kishiwada, Osaka in the Kansai region of Japan. It dates back to the Edo period (1603–1868AD) and originates from the shrine lanterns of the time. There are several Danjiri festivals held in the central area of the Kinki region of Japan: Kishiwada Danjiri Festival, Haruki Danjiri Festival, Kobe Danjiri Festival and Sakai Danjiri Festival to name a few. The Danjiri Festival is held every year to pray for a good harvest and attracts many viewers keen to take a look at the exciting event. The wooden floats decorated with beautiful carvings are pulled around the town on ropes and considered by many to be works of art. Accidents Are Unavoidable During the Festival? Source :YouTube screenshot Accidents and unexpected events happen almost every year during Osaka's Danjiri festival. This video contains footage of the festival floats toppling over, crashing into lamp posts and other dangerous accidents due to the high speed they are being pulled around at. A method called "Yarimawashi" (やりまわし) used to help the floats turn right-angled street corners at high speed is one of the most thrilling and suspenseful moments of the festival. Accidents are particularly prone to happening on rainy days or during the darker hours of the evening. This can be seen at 2:57, 3:18, 6:23 and 8:14 in the video. Some years accidents are so dangerous that they have unfortunately resulted in death. Source :YouTube screenshot The highlight of this video has to be at 13:36 when one of the floats crashes into a street light which breaks and falls over. You can feel just how terrifying that must have been! Again at 14:50 you can see a float crash into a street curb and topple over. There are also many moments when the floats shake violently from side to side and come close to toppling over, occasionally actually falling over in front of spectators. Attending even as a spectator can put your life at risk! As you've probably noticed from the video at 5:45, 6:45, and 7:08, those pulling the floats cannot let go of the ropes even if they fall over and as a result end up being dragged along the street. The reason being, is that there is a danger of being trampled by the float if one let's go of the ropes, therefore there is a rule that one must hold onto the rope no matter what. Danjiri Festival Summary Source :YouTube screenshot We hope you enjoyed our video compilation of the thrilling events that take place during the Danjiri fesival. With serious accidents being a regular occurrence, it's safe to say that the Danjiri festival is one of the most dangerous festivals in Japan. Even so, every year many visitors come to watch and take part in the festival. There are many food stands and the large number of spectators make this is a very lively and exciting festival! ◆Kishiwada Danjiri Festival Introduction Summary◆ 【Event date】Every year in the middle of August 【Access】JR Kishiwada station (JR岸和田駅, JR Kishiwadaeki) or JR Haruki station (JR春木駅, JR Harukieki) 【Official Website】Kishiwada Danjiri Festival https://translate.google.co.jp/translate?hl=ja&sl=ja&tl=en&u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.city.kishiwada.osaka.jp%2Fsite%2Fdanjiri%2F 【Tripadvisor】Danjiri Festival (September festival) https://www.tripadvisor.com/ShowUserReviews-g1023471-d10019374-r362673132-Danjiri_Matsuri_September-Kishiwada_Osaka_Prefecture_Kinki.html

Video introduction of Amanohashidate Viewland with snowy scenery in Miyazu City, Kyoto Prefecture, Japan This video, titled "A Snowy Amanohashidate Viewland" (天橋立ビューランド 雪景色) was uploaded by "Amanohashidate Viewland" (天橋立ビューランド). This video captures the peaceful and serene atmosphere of Amanohashidate, as if viewed from the perspective of a flying bird. The clear, crisp winter air adds to the beauty of the scenery. Amanohashidate is a charming destination in every season, and this video showcases the special allure of winter. We hope you enjoy it. Amanohashidate One of the Three Views of Japan, and Hiryukan Photo：Mata-nozoki Amanohashidate, located in Miyazu, Kyoto, in the Kanto region of Japan, is known as one of the Japan's "Three Views of Japan," along with Matsushima (Miyagi Prefecture) and Miyajima (Hiroshima Prefecture). Amanohashidate is a sandbar created by the accumulation of sand on a spit, and it's approximately 3.6km long and 20-170m wide. It’s covered with a whopping 8,000 pine trees, which thrive due to the repeated ebb and flow of the tides. The natural beauty of Amanohashidate is truly breathtaking and is often compared to works of art. Although there are many sandbars in Japan, none are as impressive as Amanohashidate. [Video] 0:45 - Amanohashidate in Winter as Seen From the Sky (The Aso Inland Sea and Miyazu Bay) Amanohashidate became popular for its unique viewing method. Called "Mata-nozoki," if you bend over and look back at the land bridge between your legs at Amanohashidate Viewland it's as though the sky and sea are flipped. The sandbar is said to resemble a dragon dancing in the sky, hence its nickname "Hiryu-kan" (飛龍観, lit "View of the Flying Dragon"). Amanohashidate Viewland is an amusement park located at the top of Mt. Monju, with a viewing platform that allows visitors to see Amanohashidate from the South. The park has various attractions such as a Ferris Wheel and a cycle monorail, and is popular with people of all ages. It's also a popular spot for tourists to take Instagram photos. Amanohashidate Winter Sightseeing Spots Photo：Hiryukan at Amanohashidate, Kyoto One of the top winter attractions at Amanohashidate is "Gensetsu no Hiryu-kan." [Video] 0:52 - Aerial Footage of Gensetsu no Hiryu-kan The upside-down viewing at Amanohashidate, which appears as if the sky and earth have reversed and a dragon is rising to the heavens, is referred to as Hiryu-kan. During the winter when it snows, this phenomenon is called "Gensetsu no Hiryu-kan" (幻雪の飛龍観, lit. Magical Snow View of the Flying Dragon). When Amanohashidate is covered in snow, Hiryu-kan takes on an even more fantastical appearance, resembling a white dragon. However, this breathtaking view can only be seen when it's snowing as even the sun's rays melt the snow. One winter tourist attraction in the Amanohashidate area is the Kyoto Tango Railway. "Ke-arashi," another popular winter phenomenon, is a natural phenomenon that occurs when the air near the water's surface rapidly cools during the cold early morning. Therefore, if the conditions are not perfect, it cannot be seen. However, the sight of mist rising up from the surface of the water from the Kyoto Tango Railway is breathtaking. This line crosses the bridge over the Yura River, which is approximately 550m wide. It's definitely worth waking up early to see it, so if you visit Miyazu definitely consider setting your alarm, as it's also great for taking Instagram photos. Things to Keep in Mind When Traveling to Amanohashidate in Winter To access Amanohashidate by public transportation, you can take the Sanyo Main Line from Osaka Station and arrive in about 2-3 hours. On the other hand, if you're driving to Amanohashidate in the winter, it's necessary to use winter tires even if it is not snowing at the time of your departure. One thing to be particularly careful of when driving in the winter is icy road conditions. Even if the surface melts and becomes wet as the temperature and sun rise, there can still be ice underneath, which can cause you to lose control of your vehicle. When driving in low temperatures and when snow is falling during the winter months, drivers should take extra precautions, such as keeping a safe distance from other vehicles. It may also be a good idea to carry tire chains and shovels in the case of an emergency. When Is the Best Season to Visit Amanohashidate? Photo：Spring at Amanohashidate Amanohashidate has different attractions in each of Japan's 4 seasons. ・Spring Cherry blossoms are a hallmark of Japanese spring, and Amanohashidate is no exception. From Amanohashidate Viewland on top of Mt. Monju (130 meters high), the unique views of Hiryu-kan, combined with cherry blossoms, the sea, and pine forests, create a view that is beyond words. ・Summer Looking up at the beautiful Amanohashidate while enjoying a seaside swim is the ultimate summer activity. Tango Yura Beach (丹後由良海水浴場, Tango Yura Kaisui Yokujo) at Amanohashidate is a popular beach for families. The water is also clean, and after enjoying the calm waves, you can relax in the shade of the pine trees. On the way back from the beach, it's also worth visiting the hot spring "Chie no Yu" in Amanohashidate. ・Autumn The autumn leaves around Amanohashidate start to change color in late October, and the best time to view them is from late November to early December. It's expected to be quite crowded when the autumn leaves are in season. One recommended activity is "Park & Cruise" in Miyazu Bay. It's a convenient sightseeing boat that is a 3-minute walk from the Roadside Station's multi-level car parking lot to Miyazu Pier. The sightseeing boat is convenient for those arriving by car and goes via Amanohashidate to Ichinomiya, where Kasamatsu Park (overlooking Amanohashidate) is located. The boat is available during the autumn foliage season and can also be used to avoid the crowds. ・Winter As previously mentioned, Amanohashidate becomes even more charming during winter. You can enjoy the ethereal snowy scenery and fantastic views. Amanohashidate and the surrounding spots and activities have different charms in spring, summer, fall, and winter. Discover your favorite season by visiting Amanohashidate for yourself! Summary of Winter Sightseeing at Amanohashidate The scenic Amanohashidate is a popular tourist attraction with many famous temples in the surrounding area. There are regular hotels and hot spring hotels that offer seasonal plans to suit your needs. The region is also known for its delicious food. Visitors are advised to make reservations early for their preferred season to fully enjoy their trip to Amanohashidate in Miyazu, Kyoto. 【TripAdvisor】Amanohashidate

An Introduction to Okashi no Machioka 「「おかしのまちおか」 Okashi no Machioka」, is a video created by 「IKEBUKURO GOURMET」. It introduces the sweets shop "Okashi no Machioka" which is a very popular destination for those visiting Japan. Over 1000 varieties of sweets are sold here at extremely low prices, making this the perfect place for sweet lovers, or those who are looking to buy Japanese souvenirs. This article will introduce the charm of Okashi no Machioka. What is Okashi no Machioka? Source of photo :YouTube screenshot Okashi no Machioka is a popular sweets shop in Japan managed by the Minoya Corporation (株式会社みのや, Kabushiki-gaisha Minoya), and there are over 150 Okashi no Machioka locations throughout Japan. A wide selection of snacks from various brands are sold here. As seen from 1:27 in the video, snacks such as candies and gum are sold at very reasonable prices. This shop is popular among people of all ages, from the young to the elderly. The Greatest Attraction of Okashi no Machioka: Unbelievably Low Prices Source of photo :YouTube screenshot Sometimes, up to a 90% discount is available for selected sweets. Information about limited-time campaigns or opening sales is available on online or on flyers, so do make sure to check those frequently. The secret behind the low prices of Okashi no Machioka is that products are displayed in bulk in cardboard boxes, thus reducing the need for additional fixtures and cutting operating costs. You can see the products lined up in the shop from 0:09 in the video. The Products of Okashi no Machioka Source of photo :YouTube screenshot Okashi no Machioka is also popular with foreigners. These visitors mostly purchase sweets as souvenirs. Matcha KitKats, Assorted Kit Kats, Chiroru Chocolate, Matcha Mochi, Kororo, Hi-Chew, and Matcha Oreo are some of the most popular items. Every year around the start of the new year, "lucky bags" are sold for 1,000 yen (~$9 USD). The bags are stuffed to the brim with sweets, making them well worth the price. These bags have received favorable reviews from many satisfied customers as well. Besides this, "dagashi," (駄菓子, Japanese penny candy), and sweets assortments, are also popular. Where is Okashi no Machioka? Photo：Highrises in Shinjuku There are Okashi no Machioka shops in cities all over Japan. Besides the inner Tokyo shops in Kichijoji, Shibuya, Shinjuku, Ikebukuro, and more, there are also shops in Kawasaki, Musashi-Kosugi, Kita-senju, Funabashi, as well as other locations in the prefectures of Chiba, Kyoto, Saitama, and Osaka. The opening hours vary by location, so we recommend double checking this information on the Okashi no Machioka official homepage. Okashi no Machioka summed up The video 「「おかしのまちおか」 Okashi no Machioka」, by 「IKEBUKURO GOURMET」, introduces Okashi no Machioka, a popular sweets shop in Japan. Sweets are sold at extremely low prices, and with over a thousand varieties of sweets available, just taking a stroll through the shop makes for an enjoyable experience. If you want to eat lots of sweets at reasonable prices, or buy sweets as souvenirs, then this shop is exactly what you're looking for. The producer of the video can also be seen purchasing sweets at 2:24 of the video. If this article has piqued your interest, definitely check out the video!

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

Shiba Inu - The Only Small Dog Among Japanese Dogs Photo：A Shiba Inu standing in a rice field This video, titled "No.7 Shiba inu ❤️ TOP100 Cute Dog Breeds Video," was uploaded by "I want a dog! A dog channel for beginners." This video introduces the cute Shiba Inu, including everything from their personality to how much exercise they need, as well as things to know before owning one. Be sure to check it out as you read along. The History of the Shiba Inu, a Dog Native to Japan Photo：A Mino Shiba Inu Of the six types of dogs native to Japan (Japanese dogs), the Shiba Inu is the only small Japanese dog. It's said that the origins of the Shiba Inu may originate from the "Jomon Inu," which is said to have coexisted with humans as early as the Jomon Period (710-794). The Shiba Inu has been kept as a hunting dog for small animals and birds in various parts of Honshu (mainland Japan) since ancient times. It's said that 80% of all Japanese dogs kept in Japan are Shiba Inu. There are several types of Shiba Inu, including the San'in Shiba Inu, Shinshu Shiba Inu, and Mino Shiba Inu, but the Shinshu Shiba Inu lineage currently accounts for the majority. Unfortunately, there is only a small number of Shiba Inu, and some breeds are in danger of extinction. The Shiba Inu was also in danger of extinction due to crossbreeding with Western dogs at the end of the Taisho Period (1912-1926), food shortages during World War II, and distemper (a viral disease found in domestic animals), but thanks to the efforts of people wishing to preserve the breed, breeding improved and the Shiba Inu is still around today. In recent years, research has shown that the Shiba Inu is the closest dog breed to the wolf. [Video] 2:23 - The History of the Shiba Inu [Video] 2:53 - The Shiba Inu - The Closest Dog Breed to a Wolf? The 2 Kinds of Shiba Inu Faces - Fox Face and Raccoon Face Photo：A fox face Shiba Inu There are two main types of Shiba Inu faces: The fox face, and the raccoon face. The fox face is characterized by a long, stern face, a long muzzle (the part around the dog's mouth), and a shallow forehead. This type is similar to the ancestral dogs of the Jomon period. The raccoon face is characterized by a round face, short muzzle, and a round nose and eyes, more modern characteristics. It can be difficult to tell which face a Shibu Inu has when they are puppies, so you'll need to check the pedigree with the breeder. [Video] 0:53 - Shiba Inu Face Types The 4 Different Coat Colors of Shiba Inu Photo：A black-coated Shiba Inu In addition to their different face types, Shiba Inu have 4 different coat colors: These are red, black, sesame, and white. ●Red (Brown) The red coat accounts for 80% of all Shiba Inu, and when most people think of a Shiba Inu, they tend to picture this coat color. ●Black The black coat covers the entire body of the Shiba Inu, with the chest and belly often being white. The black color is also characterized by the eyebrow-like spots above the eyes. The color makes their bodies look tighter, giving them a dignified appearance in spite of their small size. ●White White is the rarest color of Shiba Inu. Some dogs are born with a red coat, but it gradually changes to white. Because of its rarity, until recently it was not uncommon for a pedigree to be issued for a white Shiba, but there have been some cases where the color has been recognized at exhibitions. ●Sesame This coat color is a mixture of red, black, and white, and is classified as sesame, red sesame, or black sesame according to the ratio of these colors. As they develop, the ratio of the coat color changes, and you can enjoy watching your Shiba Inu grow. Besides red (brown), other coat colors are quite uncommon. [Video] 1:40 - Shiba Inu Coat Colors Shiba Inu Size, Weight, and Other Characteristics + The Unique Mame-Shiba Photo：A Shiba Inu's tail The Shiba Inu's outward appearance is characterized by its dense, stiff short hair and curly tail. It's said that there are nine different types of tails, so be sure to pay attention to the shape of the tail as well as the face and coat color. The average life span of a Shiba Inu is 15.1 years. It's a long-lived breed among small dogs. The average height of a Shiba Inu is 39.5 cm (15.5 in) for males and 36.5 cm (~14.5 in) for females, and the average weight is 10 kg (22 lbs) for males and 8 kg (~17.5 lbs) for females. The "Mame Shiba," which has become popular in Japan in recent years, is smaller than the standard Shiba, with an average large height of 28 cm to 34 cm (11-13.5 in) and an average weight of around 5 kg (11 lbs). The even smaller "Ko-Mame Shiba" is about 24 cm long (~9.5 in) and weighs about 2 kg (~4.5 lbs), so even as an adult it looks like a puppy and is popular for its adorable appearance. Neither the Mame Shiba nor the Ko-Mame Shiba are recognized as official breeds, but rather, are considered to be small Shiba Inu. Their personalities and how they are cared for are the same as that of regular Shiba Inu, but because of their smaller size, they are said to be a little more pampered than their regular Shiba Inu counterparts. [Video] 3:23 - How Big is a Shiba Inu? Things to Know Before Caring for a Shiba Inu Photo：A sleeping Shiba Inu Before committing to raising a Shiba Inu, it's important to first learn about their personalities. Shiba Inu are said to be smart and loyal, and tend to be affectionate to no one but their owners. They are also stubborn and cautious, so socialization training is important. Shiba Inu should be trained to avoid barking and biting when they are puppies. By way of gender comparison, females are more docile than males. To develop a sociable personality, it's important to expose them to other dogs and people outside the family from a young age, and to familiarize them with various places. Additionally, because Shiba Inu are very territorial and susceptible to stress, it's important to give them their space. If you keep your dog indoors, you should prepare an enclosure for it, and if you keep it outside, you should provide a kennel. If you keep your dog outside, place the kennel on soil, not concrete, to avoid heat stroke. [Video] 4:15 - How to Take Care of a Shiba Inu How Much Exercise Does a Shiba Inu Need? Photo：A Shiba Inu walking The Shiba Inu was originally a hunting dog, and as such, is a very athletic breed. For an adult dog, it's sometimes said that the ideal exercise distance is equal to the dog's body weight (e.g. 10 kg = 10 km), but if you continue to exercise your dog every day, long distances may be difficult for both you and your dog to keep up. A good starting point is to exercise the dog for 30 minutes, twice a day, every day. Sinec every dog varies, if your dog seems to be under stress due to lack of exercise, then you should be sure to take it on more walks, and give it more opportunities for exercise. [Video] 5:16 - How Much Exercise Does a Shiba Inu Need? How Much Does it Cost to Own a Shiba Inu Photo：A Shiba Inu If you wish to own a Shiba Inu, you can adopt a rescue, or purchase one from a pet store. According to the American Kennel Club, the average price for a Shiba Inu tends to be around $2,000-$4,000. The price can also vary depending on the color of the coat. Common diseases that Shiba Inu are prone to include skin diseases (atopic dermatitis)" and food allergies, as well as dementia, patellar luxation, cataracts, and otitis externa (inflammation of the external ear canal). although it can be difficult because of the large amount of hair that falls out, because Shiba Inu are especially prone to skin diseases, it's important to keep their bodies clean and brush them carefully when they are shedding. Compared to many other breeds, the Shiba Inu is said to be relatively disease-free. However, you should not let your guard down, so be on the lookout for changes on a daily basis. [Video] 2:10 - Where to Get a Shiba Inu [Video] 5:57 - Diseases Shiba Inu Are Prone To Summary of the Shiba Inu Photo：A sleeping Shiba Inu If you're thinking about caring for a Shiba Inu, it's important to understand its personality, socialize it properly, and provide it with an appropriate environment. [Video] 6:56 - Shiba Inu Review ・Shiba Inu have a history of being hunting dogs, so you should not think of them as pets. ・Shiba Inu are known to bite, so it's important to train them after adopting one. ・Shiba Inu shed a lot of fur and are prone to skin diseases, so be sure to keep them clean and brush them frequently when they are shedding. ・Shiba Inu need a lot of exercise, so they should be walked daily. Be careful not to overwork them. ・Japanese dogs are prone to dementia. Shiba Inu are smart and loyal to their owners. It's important to understand their characteristics and traits so that you can live together with them for a long time.

Nishi Honganji Temple” in Kyoto City, Kyoto Prefecture, Japan Video Introduction This video, titled "Kyoto, Japan, Nishi Honganji Temple, Jodo Shinshu, Otani Honbyo, World Heritage Site, 2018/8" (京都 西本願寺浄土真宗・大谷本廟 世界遺産　2018/8), was uploaded by "cakua car trips" (cakua 車の旅). It introduces the beauty of Nishi Honganji Temple, a temple registered as a World Heritage Site under "Historic Monuments of Ancient Kyoto." The temple is located in Kyoto, Japan in Japan's Kansai region. Nishi Honganji Temple: A Popular Sightseeing Spot and Indispensable Part of Sightseeing in Kyoto! Photo：Nishi Honganji Temple, Kyoto, Japan At the beginning of the video, viewers can see a map of Nishi Honganji Temple and its surrounding area. Nishi Honganji Temple is a popular tourist spot that we highly recommend visiting when traveling in Kyoto. It is the head temple of the Honganji school of the Jodo Shinshu sect, and its official name is "Ryukokuzan Honganji." It is called Nishi Honganji (lit. "west Hongaji") to distinguish it from Higashi Honganji (lit. "east Hongaji") of the Shinshu Otani school. The History of Nishi Honganji Temple Photo：Otani Honbyo, Higashiyama, Kyoto The history of Nishi Honganji Temple dates back to 1272, when it was built as a mausoleum for Shinran Shonin. Shinran Shonin's burial place was simple at first, but then Otani Honbyo was built by monks. In addition to Shinran Shonin, many of his followers from all over Japan are buried here, and memorial services are held regularly. It is a part of the same sect as Higashi Honganji, and the sutras used are also the same. In Kagoshima Prefecture, there's Honganji Kagoshima Betsuin, another temple belonging to the same school of Buddhism. National Treasures and Important Cultural Assets at Nishi Honganji Temple Photo：Nishi Honganji Temple, Kyoto, Japan There are many things to see on the grounds of Nishi Honganji Temple. As you enter the temple grounds through Goeido Gate, you'll see the elegant chozu-ya. This can be seen from 2:00 in the video. The two main halls, Goeido Hall and Amida Hall, stand side by side. In Goeido Hall, there is a statue of Shinran Shonin. At 2:49 in the video, you can see the majestic interior of the Amida Hall. Another must-see is Hiunkaku, one of the three most famous buildings in Kyoto, which is said to be the remnants of Jurakudai, a palace constructed at the order of Toyotomi Hideyoshi. The shoin (study), a national treasure, includes a kuro shoin (a shoin used by shogun, daimyo, and high-ranking priests) and a noh stage, the oldest existing noh stage in Japan. Also check out Karamon Gate, a gate with magnificent carvings, said to make you forget the sun has set. There's also Tekisuien Garden in Hiunkaku, which is designated as a Place of Scenic Beauty, and Daishoin Garden, designated as a Special Place of Scenic Beauty and a historic site. The garden is usually closed to the public, but it is a must-see on the special occasions when it is open to the public. At Monbou Kaikan, the lodging house of Nishi Honganji Temple, visitors can enjoy vegetarian Buddhist cuisine. Summary of Nishi Honganji Temple It takes about 15 minutes to get to Nishi Honganji Temple from Kyoto Station on foot. There is also a free parking lot for worshippers and visitors to the temple. There is no charge to visit Nishi Honganji Temple, but there are no unfortunately no shuin stamps either. The video introduces many of the highlights of Nishi Honganji Temple. If you're not sure where to start, consider taking a free tour of the temple. You can find more details on the official website of Nishi Honganji Temple below. Tours average about 30 minutes each. Be sure to check out the video to see the highlights of Nishi Honganji Temple, one of the most popular tourist spots in Kyoto and a World Heritage Site! 【Official Website】The Hongaji School of Jodo Shinshu｜Nishi Honganji Temple https://www.hongwanji.or.jp/english/ 【TripAdvisor】Nishi Honganji Temple https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g298564-d321443-Reviews-Nishi_Honganji-Kyoto_Kyoto_Prefecture_Kinki.html

Chopstick Rubber Band Guns! This video is titled "Easy★How to Make Chopsticks Rubber Guns★Handmade Toy" (簡単★ 割り箸ゴム鉄砲の作り方 ★手作りおもちゃ). The chopstick rubber band gun is a popular toy among Japanese children. It uses chopsticks, which is a very familiar item for Japanese people, to create a gun shape by tying them together with rubber bands. They're not too difficult to make, so try to follow along and make your own as we explain the process. Making a Chopstick Rubber Band Gun Source :YouTube screenshot First, prepare 3 wooden chopsticks, a few rubber bands and a pair of scissors. If the chopsticks are still stuck together, break them apart so we can begin making the rubber band gun. As you can see at 0:37 in the video, we'll be using the chopsticks and rubber bands to assemble it. The grip of the gun is made by cutting the chopsticks into pieces with scissors. This is shown at 2:11 in the video. The firing mechanism of the chopstick rubber band gun is simple, and you can make the rubber band fly far by hooking one to the finished gun and shooting. When you finish making one, use a laundry clip as a scope to aim at your target. You can see the rubber band gun being shot at 5:45 in the video. Making a Strong Chopstick Rubber Band Gun Photo：Chopstick Rubber Band Gun You can make cool handmade guns other than the one in the video, such as a laundry clip pistol, a multi-fire pistol, dual handguns, and a gatling gun. There are even crazy strong guns like machine guns, sniper rifles, and semi-automatic gun. Use the internet to search how to make the more advanced rubber band guns and try making one with your friends! These days, there are classes and workshops for chopstick rubber band guns. We recommend giving one a try! Rubber Band Gun Competitions The Japan Rubber Band Gun Shooting Association was established in November 2000. It is an organization that aims to popularize rubber band guns, including the chopsticks rubber band gun variation. The Japan Rubber Gun Shooting Association has established three rules: Matchbox, Fly Shoot, and Coin Pendulum, as official rubber band gun competitions, and there are also events and competitions held. Summary of Rubber Band Chopsticks Source :YouTube screenshot In this article we talked about how to create chopstick rubber band guns. The chopsticks rubber band gun is a handmade toy that can also be enjoyed by adults. We recommend making one during your summer vacation! Check out the video to see how to make chopstick rubber band guns and try to create a powerful device! 【Official Website】Japan Rubber Band Gun Shooting Association http://www007.upp.so-net.ne.jp/jrbgsa/syagekitop.html

An Eye-Catching Introduction to Japan This approximately 4-minute video, focusing on modern-day Japan as seen by foreign tourists and travelers, boasts a level of quality that has attracted major interest not only in Japan but in various countries throughout the world. This video's footage goes above and beyond other Japan PR videos and keeps viewers glued to the screen. By the video's end, you'll most likely feel an indescribable surge of emotions, such as those experienced after viewing a magnificent movie of epic proportions! Highlights of the Japanese Introduction Video, "in Japan" This video, "In Japan," taken in 2015 by German filmmaker/creator Vincent Urban, is a nearly 4-minute collection of footage of his 3-week journey in Japan to locations including Tokyo, Osaka, Kyoto and Hiroshima. In taking a look at images of landscapes and scenery natural and commonplace to Japanese people which are projected from a foreigner’s perspective, even we as Japanese natives can perceive such images as unknown, brand new discoveries and never-before-seen sights and scenes, and this video therefore allows us to learn about the appeal and charm of Japan in a brand new light. Viewers of this video can also agree that its high quality BGM and camera work is yet another reason for its high acclaim both in and out of Japan. This video condenses a wide variety of discoveries in Japan ranging from regularly seen daily scenery and landscapes to famous tourist spots. Examples of such sights include Asakusa Temple in the Shitamachi area of Tokyo, festivals, Kendo (Japanese martial art with bamboo swords), Buddhist temples, Fushimi Inari-taisha shrine as well as convenience stores, Tokyo Tower, street performances, Tokyo Skytree, sumo wrestlers, clubs and idols, in addition to shinkansen (bullet trains), natural landscapes, the Atomic Bomb Domes in Hiroshima & Nagasaki, Mt. Fuji and metropolitan night scenes. Japan as Seen Through Cultural Changes Photo：Sumo Learning about shifts in modern Japanese culture gives us deeper insights into the allure and attraction of Japan as a nation in the present day. Japan of yore once had superb classic culture primarily consisting of artistic traditional crafts, and as you can see in the video, festivals and martial arts passed down to Japan from ancient times have been regarded as symbolizing the very culture of "Nihon no Wa," or "The Spirit of Japan." It is also well-known that Japan is the birthplace of kendo and sumo wrestling which are now sports famous all the world over. In addition, present-day Japan is going through transitions in which its forms of entertainment, such as manga (Japanese comics/cartoons) and anime (Japanese animation), formerly considered to be types of sub-culture, have been disseminated throughout the globe to be cherished by multitudes of people as pop culture. This signifies shifts in the image of "Japan" in the eyes of foreigners abroad from that of a land of ninja and samurai to an anime & manga nation. The Akihabara area, now the "Mecca" of anime and manga which serves as the center of Japanese contemporary culture, has become a well-known tourist location which draws huge numbers of sightseers visiting Japan, and it's also popular as a town for shopping. Japan as Seen Through Tourist Meccas & Architectural Buildings Photo：Sensoji Temple and women If you're watching this video you probably know that Japan, due to its also being famous as a country abound with history and nature, sees immense numbers of foreigners who visit for sightseeing on a daily basis. Locations in Japan shown in the video, such as Senso-ji Temple in Asakusa, Tokyo and the Atomic Bomb Dome in Hiroshima, are highly recommended tourist spots in Japan which are renowned even on a global scale. The existence of temples and shrines in Japan, whose number is too great to mention here, attracts hosts of foreign sightseers day by day, and this is proof of how Japan enjoys deep-rooted popularity as a tourist destination amongst abroad residents all over the world. Japan as Seen Through Nature ©Izu City Modifying The richness and abundance of nature, amongst other aspects, is definitely a thing to behold here in Japan. Japan's largest mountain, Mt. Fuji, and its bamboo forest, also featured in the video, are without a doubt natural tourist spots that represent the glory of Japan. The view from Mt. Fuji's summit, in particular, is easily summed up by the words "magnificent scenery," and once you experience climbing this mountain on your own, you'll be able to appreciate the thrill and excitement of this spectacle all the more. Such natural splendor is just one more example of a globally sought-after sightseeing attraction highly recommended in Japan, a fact testified to by the unceasing droves of tourists from abroad who visit day-to-day without end. Japan Introduction Video Summary We hope you enjoyed this video introduction of Japan with its simple yet profound delivery of information. Year after year, Japan sees increasing numbers of tourists from abroad coming in search of such fascinating sightseeing spots as well as world-renowned gourmet Japanese food. Japan still has yet a great deal of appeal which, unfortunately, we can't completely encapsulate into such a short introductory video on Japan’s culture, history, entertainment, nature and festivals. We truly hope that this video and article have piqued your interest in Japan more than ever before!

Japan's Public Baths This video, titled "Boys Stepping Into a Public Bath for the First Time. Cow Soap Commercial 'My First Trip To a Sento Bathhouse'" (銭湯、そのレトロ空間に初めて足を踏み入れた少年たちは…？牛乳石鹸CM「はじめての銭湯」篇), was released by "moviecollectionjp." Public baths, or "銭湯" (sento) in Japanese, are one of many Japanese cultures. There are many people who know the word "sento" but have never actually been to one. As the number of sento open for business decreases year after year, the opportunity to actually visit a sento for a bath is dwindling. To promote "Good Bath Day" on November 26, this video introduces the charms of Japan's sento. If you're interested in Japanese traditional culture, be sure to give it a watch! November 26, Good Bath Day Source :YouTube screenshot This video will help you learn how to enter a sento and what to be mindful about. If you're thinking about going to a sento in Japan, this video is a good place to start. In public places, such as sento, people are expected to behave in a respectful manner. Japanese and English subtitles are displayed at key points, so overseas travelers can easily understand what's happening. Learn How to Enjoy Japan's Sento in the Video Source :YouTube screenshot When you enter the bathhouse, the first thing you need to do is put your shoes in a locker, as shown at 0:19 in the video. Be sure not to lose the key! After paying the clerk, it's time for a bath! From 0:47 in the video, you can see children washing their bodies. At sento, it's good manners to wash your body before soaking in the baths. From 0:59 in the video, you can see adults and children helping to wash one another's backs, which is another charm of Japan's sento culture. It’s also important to follow proper etiquette, such as not entering the baths with a towel, and not diving into the water. After you've enjoyed your time at the bathhouse, there are certain manners to follow when getting out of the baths, such as putting away any buckets, etc. you used and wiping your body off properly. You can see a massage chair at 1:50 in the video. You can use these after a bath to revitalize your body. The video ends with the children bidding farewell to the woman at the booth. It's important to maintain good manners with people, not only in Japan's sento but when using other public facilities as well. So What Kind of Place Are Japan's Sento Exactly? Photo：A cypress bath and bucket at a sento Sento are public bathhouses in Japan. They are also called furoya (風呂屋) or yuya (湯屋) in Japanese. At sento, a boiler is used to boil a large amount of water, and tall exhaust chimneys are often a feature of a sento. Some public bathhouses use hot springs, and one of the best ways to enjoy visiting public bathhouses in Japan is to learn about the different types of spring water they use. Another appeal of Japan's sento is that you can enjoy a variety of baths, including cold water baths, denkiburo (baths with a slight electric current), waterfall baths, jet baths, medicinal baths, open-air baths, saunas, ganban'yoku, and more. Large scale public bathhouses are called "Super Sento" and often offer meals and other services. Another feature of public bathhouses is that the walls are generally decorated with special paintings and tiles. When you visit Japan, be sure to take a relaxing soak while enjoying the beautiful decorations of the bathhouse. The Roots and History of Japan's Sento Photo：Sento It is said that sento originate from the time when Buddhism was introduced to Japan. The reason sento were built was for monks to cleanse their bodies. Bathhouses were set up in temples and were popular not only among monks, but also among the impoverished. Summary of Japan's Traditional Sento Photo：Sento equipment Japanese culture is very profound, and sento are no exception. Before you actually visit a sento, be sure to check out this video to learn the manners and rules of Japan's public bathhouses first. By doing so, you're sure to have a wonderful time at Japan's public baths!

What is “Kayabuki-no-Sato” in Miyama-cho, Nantan City, Kyoto Prefecture? Sightseeing Video Introduction Kayabuki Village, introduced in the video, is a tourist destination located in Miyama Town, Nantan City (南丹市, Nantanshi) in Kyoto Prefecture (京都府, Kyotofu). Kayabuki Village, located near the center of Kyoto Prefecture, is a hidden gem where you can enjoy sightseeing at ‘the alternative Kyoto,’ different from ‘Kyoto, the ancient capital.’ Its charm lays in the relaxing landscape of its thatched-roof houses against the backdrop of majestic mountains reminiscent of a Japan long passed. Of the 50 houses comprising Kayabuki Village, 39 have their roofs thatched using a traditional Japanese method, where logs are combined to form a triangle and thatches are layered on top of them. Even in Japan, it's rare to see this many thatched-roof houses at once. In 1993, the historical landscape, including the thatched roof houses, was registered under the Preservation Districts for Groups of Traditional Buildings. The inside structure of a thatched-roof house and its storehouse is displayed at the Miyama Folklore Museum (美山民俗資料館, Miyama Minzoku Shiryokan) in Kayabuki Village. You can feel the old way of living in the agricultural areas of Kyoto through the displays of nearly 200 ancient agricultural tools and household items. The video shows many of the charms of the village, so be sure to watch it as you read through this article Beautiful Spring Greenery and Attractions in Kayabuki Village Photo：Kayabuki Village post Kayabuki Village is popular for its brilliant landscapes lit up by snow lanterns in the winter and colorful autumn leaves in the fall, but the beauty of the spring greenery is truly something to marvel at. We recommend hiking along the rice paddies reflecting the shining green Tanba Mountains (丹波山地, Tanba Sanchi) and the thatched-roof houses. The Jizos seeing over the village and the rustic plants and flowers greet travelers with warmth. The Miyama Kataribe Walk, where the local Kataribe (a tour guide) shows you around, is another place popular for sightseeing. The scenery of the nostalgic red post at the entrance to the village, shown in the video, is a great place for taking pictures. Be sure to upload them to your instagram! We recommend getting a shot of Kayabuki Village over the rice fields. In May, Kayabuki Village is crowded with tourists visiting for the Rice Planting Festival (お田植祭, Otaue Matsuri) and the 'Simultaneous Hosing' (一斉放水, Isseihosui). The ‘Rice Planting Festival’ is a sacred event held on the second Sunday in May where the saotome pray for fertility. The festival in which the saotome, wearing sedge hats and kimono, and lined up in a row, plant rice crops by hand, attracts many tourists, both foreign and Japanese. On the other hand, the ‘Simultaneous Hosing’ is not an event per se, but a twice-a-year testing of water cannons which protect the thatched-roof houses from fires. The water from 62 water cannons draw a large arch in the sky that resembles a water curtain over the thatched-roof houses. This view is famous as one of the best in Kyoto tourism for its beauty and attracts a large crowd of people. Definitely get a picture of this if you can! Kayabuki Village Summary Photo：Kayabuki Village Kayabuki Village, a popular out-of-the-way tourist destination in Kyoto, is located about 80 minutes away from the Kyoto City Center by car, and free shared parking lots are provided. Direct bus services from Kyoto Station operate during the green season. Staying at a thatched-roof house in the village is possible thanks to facilities such as the Matabe Guesthouse (民宿またべ, Mishuku Matabe) and the Hisaya Guesthouse (民宿久や, Minshuku Hisaya). The village also has souvenir shops, as well as cafés and restaurants where you can enjoy a nice lunch. You can also enjoy a gourmet trip to try cuisine using fresh, local ingredients. Be sure to watch the video to enjoy the beautiful landscape and thatched-roof houses indicative of the beauty of Kayabuki Village. You'll sure be fascinated by the charms of Kayabuki Village! 【Official Website】Miyama’s thatched village (Kayabuki no Sato) https://kyotomiyama.jp/en/sightseeing/kayabuki-no-sato

Introduction of video taken at night at Senso-ji Temple in Taito-ku, Tokyo. This video, titled "Asakusa Senso-Ji Temple by Night --Sensoji --4K Ultra HD" released by "Tokyo Street View --Japan The Beautiful," introduces Sensoji Temple, a famous tourist destination in Japan, at night. Sensoji Temple, one of the most famous sightseeing destinations in Tokyo, is crowded with many tourists during the day. However, at night, Kaminarimon Gate and Nakamise-dori Street, two places that are representative of Sensoji Temple, are quiet and free of crowds. The quiet Nakamise-dori, can be seen at 0:54 in the video with relatively few visitors walking by. Take a closer look at the video and enjoy the fantastic atmosphere of Nakamise-dori and the beauty of Japanese temple architecture. A Closer Look at Sensoji Temple, a Famous Tourist Destination in Asakusa, Tokyo Photo：Sensoji Temple and Women Sensoji Temple is located in Asakusa, Taito, Tokyo. Sensoji Temple, a temple with ancient roots, having been built in the Heian period (794-1185), is also called "Asakusa Kannon" and is the oldest temple in Tokyo, attracting many tourists who visit for worship and sightseeing. During events at Sensoji Temple, such as Hatsumode, Osame-no-Kannon Goennichi, Shiman-rokusen-nichi, and Asakusa Shrine's Sanja Matsuri, it is especially crowded with visitors coming to worship. If you visit the Sensoji Temple, which is said to be blessed with the power to fulfill your heart's desires, be sure to get a shuin stamp to commemorate your visit. Also, don't forget to draw a rare Omikuji (fortune slip) of which 30% is said to contain unlucky fortunes! Overview of the Buildings on the Grounds of Sensoji Temple! Photo：Kaminarimon Gate in Asakusa, Tokyo At Sensoji Temple, you'll find the famous, large lantern of Kaminarimon Gate that is used for many Instagram photos. This can be seen at the beginning of the video. Don't miss the powerful gods of wind and thunder that are enshrined on the left and right sides of Kaminarimon Gate as well. After passing through Kaminarimon gate, you'll find the spacious Nakamise-dori, where you can eat gourmet food found only in Asakusa, such as buns and ningyo-yaki. If you enjoy finding gourmet food that can only be eaten in certain places then this is sure to be an unforgettable memory. Hozomon Gate, the Main Hall, and the five-storied pagoda, seen from 1:27 after the footage of Nakamise, are lit up in different seasons, creating mystical landscapes. In addition, be sure to check out Nitenmon Gate, Denboin, and Yogodo in the precincts. Summary of Sensoji Temple in Asakusa, Tokyo Photo：Sensoji Temple at night Although general temples and shrines in Japan have fixed visiting hours, you can enter the grounds of Sensoji Temple even at night. Sensoji Temple is easily accessible from the station, so we recommend stopping by Sensoji Temple at night after a day of sightseeing in Tokyo. When visiting Japan, be sure to enjoy the mystical scenery of the temple, as shown in the video! 【Official Website】Kannon Sect Asakusa Kannon Sensoji Temple Official Website https://www.senso-ji.jp/english/ 【Tripadvisor】Sensoji Temple https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g14134311-d320447-Reviews-Senso_ji_Temple-Asakusa_Taito_Tokyo_Tokyo_Prefecture_Kanto.html

COOL JAPAN VIDEOS Photo Contest Winners! Bringing the charms of Japan to the world. Photos taken with smartphones and processed photos are also eligible for entry! COOL JAPAN VIDEOS is always holding photo contests with different themes, such as Japanese culture, nature, Japan's four seasons, and more. COOL JAPAN VIDEOS is a "social video curation site" that introduces the charms of Japan to all people around the world who are interested in Japan. We have been holding photo contests since 2020, and this year, 2024, will mark our 22th contest. This article will introduce some of the wonderful works that have won awards in the past. Also, with the "COOL JAPAN VIDEOS" photo contests, even photos taken via smartphone can be winners! Stay tuned for contest details, and feel free to enter our contests after learning what they're all about! ■Table of Contents - Introduction of Past Photo Contest Winners  The 23th Photo Contest  The 23th Photo Contest  The 22th Photo Contest  The 21th Photo Contest  The 20th Photo Contest  The 19th Photo Contest  The 18th Photo Contest  The 17th Photo Contest  The 16th Photo Contest  The 15th Photo Contest  The 14th Photo Contest  The 13th Photo Contest  The 12th Photo Contest  The 11th Photo Contest  The 10th Photo Contest  The 9th Photo Contest  The 8th Photo Contest  The 7th Photo Contest  The 6th Photo Contest  The 5th Photo Contest  The 4th Photo Contest  The 3rd Photo Contest  The 2nd Photo Contest  The 1st Photo Contest - What is COOL JAPAN VIDEOS? - Features of COOL JAPAN VIDEOS Photo Contests - About Past Entries - Photo Contest Summary Introduction of Past Photo Contest Winners We're pleased to introduce the grand prize winners of our past photo contests. We have chosen works, to the best of our ability, that convey the charms of Japan via photography and make those who see them want to visit Japan. Every last one of these photos is fantastic! We'll also introduce the places where the photos were taken. [Jul 2024 - Sep 2024] The 24th COOL JAPAN VIDEOS Photo Contest: Announcement of Results Theme: Summer in Japan Prizes: ●Grand Prize: 30,000 yen Amazon gift card ●Honorable Mentions: 10,000 yen Amazon gift card ■Grand Prize Photographer:東條恵亮 Location：Hokkaido COOLJAPANVIDEOS Judges' Comments: Hokkaido The main event of the annual grand festival at Biku-ni Shrine in Hokkaido, held on the nights of July 5th and 6th, is the 'Tengu Fire-Walking.' In this mystical spectacle, the figure of a Tengu seems to emerge amidst the fiercely rising flames. The timing of the shutter was perfect, and the presence of the Tengu is powerfully conveyed, which is why we have selected this photograph as the grand prize winner. ■Honorable Mentions ・Peach ・Saitama Prefecture ・Okinawa Prefecture ・Obon ・Fukuoka Prefecture Click here to see the honorable mention photos [May 2024 - Jun 2024] The 23th COOL JAPAN VIDEOS Photo Contest: Announcement of Results Theme: Japanese History Prizes: ●Grand Prize: 30,000 yen Amazon gift card ●Honorable Mentions: 10,000 yen Amazon gift card ■Grand Prize Photographer:轡田憲行 Location：Akita Prefecture COOLJAPANVIDEOS Judges' Comments: A photograph capturing a scene from the traditional kagura dance, passed down since the founding of Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine in Kamakura City, Kanagawa Prefecture. Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine, established by Minamoto no Yoritomo, is a historic shrine known as the guardian deity of the Minamoto clan. The kagura performed at this sacred site carries on the ancient traditions and still retains its form today. We have selected this photograph for the grand prize due to its beautiful contrast between the glow of the flames and the darkness, evoking the depth and mystery of history. The solemnity and mystique of the ritual are felt through this remarkable image. ■Honorable Mentions ・Hyogo Prefecture ・Wakayama Prefecture ・Yamaguchi Prefecture ・Shizuoka Prefecture ・Oita Prefecture Click here to see the honorable mention photos 【Held from March to April 2024】Announcement of the results of the 22nd COOL JAPAN VIDEOS Photo Contest Theme: Spring in Japan Prize: ● Grand Prize Amazon gift certificates worth 30,000 yen ●Good work Amazon gift worth 10,000 yen ■ Grand Prize Photographer：Takaaki suzuki Photo shooting location: Akita prefecture COOLJAPANVIDEOS Jury commentary : Morning Sun and Fog (Akita Prefecture) "Play Park Tose" has a pond that is lined for 700 meters with cherry blossom tries. The inversed cherry blossoms reflected on the water's surface, the piercing rays of the morning sun shining through the clouds, and the rising ice fog come together to form a beautiful scene reminiscent of a pastel painting. This work was chosen for the grand prize. ■Good work ·Cherry blossom blizzard ·Toyama Prefecture ·Spring Hachimanbori ·Kawazu Cherry Blossoms ·Hakuryu Lake Fireworks You can see photos of good works here [January 2024 - February 2024] 21th COOL JAPAN VIDEOS Photo Contest results announced Theme: Views of Japan to Preserve for the Future Prize: ● Grand Prize 30,000 yen worth of Amazon gift certificates ●Good work Amazon gift worth 10,000 yen ■ Grand Prize Photographer：レオン Photo shooting location: Aritagawa Town COOLJAPANVIDEOS Jury comment: It is located in Aritagawa Town, Wakayama Prefecture, which was selected as one of the "100 Best Terraced Rice Fields in Japan" It is the autumn scenery of "Aragi Island". These rice terraces show various expressions throughout the four seasons. We especially recommend the terraced rice fields in the water mirror before rice planting, and the patchwork-like terraced rice fields during the autumn harvest season. ■Good work ·Jigozen Dike ·Gunkanjima ·Soya Hills ·Ruins of Naegi Castle ·Ochiai Village You can view photos of your best work here [November-December 2023】20th COOL JAPAN VIDEOS Photo Contest results announced Theme: The Beauty of Japan Prize: ● Grand Prize 30,000 yen worth of Amazon gift certificates ●Good work Amazon gift worth 10,000 yen ■ Grand Prize Photographer：YMD Photo shooting location: Aikura Gasho-zukuri village COOLJAPANVIDEOS Jury comment: Yukiyama and Cherry Blossom Toyama Prefecture Aikura Gasshozukuri Village "Aikura Gasshozukuri Village" in Toyama Prefecture is a national designated historical site and is registered as a World Heritage Site.When I looked down from the mountain where snow remained in the distant view, I saw cherry trees.We have selected the works of original Japanese scenery that you can feel the transition from winter to spring as the grand prize. ■Good work ·Okinawa's soul food "Soki Soba" ·Nishi-Azuma Mountain tree ice field straddling Yamagata and Fukushima Prefectures ·Burning Autumn, Fukushima Prefecture Bandai Azuma Skyline ·Showa retro Hokkaido "Inari Koji" ·Miyajima's "Daihonzan Daishoin" wearing autumn fog You can view photos of your best work here [Sep 2023 - Oct 2023] The 19th COOL JAPAN VIDEOS Photo Contest: Announcement of Results Theme: Autumn in Japan Prizes: ●Grand Prize: 30,000 yen Amazon gift card ●Honorable Mentions: 10,000 yen Amazon gift card ■Grand Prize Photographer:かずみさKazMisa Location：Oga Sanzan and the Terraced Rice Paddies of Anzenji, Akita COOLJAPANVIDEOS Judges' Comments: Oga Sanzan and the Terraced Rice Paddies of Anzenji, Akita This photo seems to have been taken from Namahage Bridge located on the Namahage Line. This breathtaking landscape photo shows the terraced rice fields of various shapes and sizes, dyed in autumn colors against the backdrop of the Oga Sanzan, the three iconic mountains of the Oga Peninsula in Akita Prefecture. The river running through the middle and the soft sunlight create a striking photo. We have selected this beautiful, idyllic photo as the Grand Prize winner. ■Honorable Mentions ・Four Seasons Garden, Fantasy Road ・Akiyoshidai at Sunset in Autumn ・Three Million Spider Lilies on the Yakachi River Bank ・The Autumn Festival at Kameyama Shrine in Hiroshima ・Fallen Leaves and Hokkaido's Ezo Squirrels Click here to see the honorable mention photos [Jul 2023 - Aug 2023] The 18th COOL JAPAN VIDEOS Photo Contest: Announcement of Results Theme: Japanese Festivals Prizes: ●Grand Prize: 30,000 yen Amazon gift card ●Honorable Mentions: 10,000 yen Amazon gift card ■Grand Prize Photographer:すっこ Location：Bingo Kokufu Festival, Hiroshima Prefecture COOLJAPANVIDEOS Judges' Comments: Bingo Kokufu Festival, Hiroshima Prefecture A photo of the climactic moment a handheld firework is launched. We have selected this powerful photo, through which you can almost feel the sparks, the smoke, and the hot wind, as the grand prize winner. ■Honorable Mentions ・Fireworks at Inuyama Castle, Aichi Prefecture ・Nishimonai Bon Odori, Akita Prefecture ・Furutone River Lantern Festival, Saitama Prefecture ・Gion Festival, Kyoto ・Milk Rice Crackers at a Temple Festival Click here to see the honorable mention photos [May 2023 - Jun 2023] The 17th COOL JAPAN VIDEOS Photo Contest: Announcement of Results Theme: Hidden Gem Tourist Attractions in Japan Prizes: ●Grand Prize: 30,000 yen Amazon gift card ●Honorable Mentions: 10,000 yen Amazon gift card ■Grand Prize Photographer: イエローフィット Location: Senaga Island COOLJAPANVIDEOS Judges' Comments: The Night View From Umikaji Terrace on Senaga Island The beautiful terrace is like an oasis in the desert. It's hard to believe it's even in Japan... The atmosphere is like something out of Sinbad, and we couldn't help but admire it. After enjoying dinner while watching the sunset, you can go for an evening stroll while savoring the sea breeze. We have chosen this work as the Grand Prize winner because it reminds us of a beautiful evening out. ■Honorable Mentions ・The Hanasaki Line Running Through Bekanbeushi Marsh ・Radio Towers and the Moon at the Top of Mt. Inasayama ・Sunset on a Hydrangea-Lined Road ・The Torii in the Sea at Hasama Underwater Park ・Saba River Koinobori Click here to see the honorable mention photos [Mar 2023 - Apr 2023] The 16th COOL JAPAN VIDEOS Photo Contest: Announcement of Results Theme: Tourist Attractions in Japan to Visit in Spring Prizes: ●Grand Prize: 30,000 yen Amazon gift card ●Honorable Mentions: 10,000 yen Amazon gift card ■Grand Prize Photographer: fumika714 Location: Nagasaki COOLJAPANVIDEOS Judges' Comments: Kanoukaen, a Samurai Process Beneath the Cherry Blossoms The largest fire festival in Unzen, Nagasaki, Kanoukaen was held for the first time in four years. The ephemeral beauty of the cherry blossoms, which bloom for only a short time and then fade away, move the hearts of the people. A total of 200 warriors, torches in hand paraded through Tachibana Park with dignity. This photo has a powerful atmosphere to it and is like something you'd seen in a movie. We have selected this work as the Grand Prize winner. ■Honorable Mentions ・Strawberry Picking ・Mt. Haku ・Koiwai Farm ・Miyajima ・Yamanashi Click here to see the honorable mention photos [Jan 2023 - Feb 2023] The 15th COOL JAPAN VIDEOS Photo Contest: Announcement of Results Theme: Japan Travel Destinations You Recommend Visiting in 2023 Prizes: ●Grand Prize: 30,000 yen Amazon gift card ●Honorable Mentions: 10,000 yen Amazon gift card ■Grand Prize Photographer: 小西諒 Location: Tottori Sand Dunes Covered COOLJAPANVIDEOS Judges' Comments: The Tottori Sand Dunes Covered in Snow, a Spectacular Winter Scene The setting sun turns the earth brown, and the view on the left resembles a giant crater. This is a photo that leave you wondering if it is actually earth. The sight of a person walking along the snow-covered dunes, leaving footprints behind, is also dramatic. We have selected this work, where the snow, sand, and sea meet, as the Grand Prize winner whose vertical composition accentuates the depth and beauty of the scene. ■Honorable Mentions ・Atami Castle ・Mt. Haku ・Lake Shikotsu ・Kidogorobei Village ・Itsukushima Shrine Click here to see the honorable mention photos [Oct 2022 - Dec 2022] The 14th COOL JAPAN VIDEOS Photo Contest: Announcement of Results Theme: Japan's Picturesque Scenery Prizes: ●Grand Prize: 30,000 yen Amazon gift card ●Honorable Mentions: 10,000 yen Amazon gift card ■Grand Prize Photographer: 山口貴広 Location: Takabocchi Highlands COOLJAPANVIDEOS Judges' Comments: Mt. Fuji and a Sea of Clouds Over the Suwa Basin This spectacular view can only be seen before dawn, when the wind is light and the weather conditions are just right. The fantastic sea of clouds and shimmering night view enhance the divine nature of Mt. Fuji. This photo was taken from the Takabocchi Highlands at 1665 meters above sea level. We have selected this work as the grand prize winner as it communicates such emotion that it makes us forget the harsh cold of winter. ■Honorable Mentions ・Notsuke Bay ・The Dragon Palace at Hiyoriyama Coast ・Angel's Ladders From Mt. Rokko ・A Snowy Night View of Sapporo ・Hiruzen Kogen Click here to see the honorable mention photos [Aug 2022 - Oct 2022] The 13th COOL JAPAN VIDEOS Photo Contest: Announcement of Results Theme: Japan Travel Memories Prizes: ●Grand Prize: 30,000 yen Amazon gift card ●Honorable Mentions: 10,000 yen Amazon gift card ■Grand Prize Photographer: rikopapa Location: Tokyo Disneyland COOLJAPANVIDEOS Judges' Comments: A Young Girl Gazing at Cinderella Castle at Night, Tokyo Disneyland After counting down the days, her dream finally came true. One can only imagine how she felt while looking up at the magical Cinderella Castle, illuminated with colorful lights. We have chosen this dramatic photo as the grand prize winner, a scene of precious memories for both the photographer and the photographed. ■Honorable Mentions ・Kihoku Lantern Festival ・Sayonara From the Ogasawara Islands ・Akashi Kaikyo Bridge at Sunset ・Okama Crater on Mt. Zao ・Yamaga Lantern Dance Click here to see the honorable mention photos [Jul 2022 - Aug 2022] The 12th COOL JAPAN VIDEOS Photo Contest: Announcement of Results Theme: Summer in Japan Prizes: ●Grand Prize: 30,000 yen Amazon gift card ●Honorable Mentions: 10,000 yen Amazon gift card ■Grand Prize Photographer: あ や か Location: Hanshin Koshien Stadium (Osaka) CoolJapanVideos Judges' Comments: A Moment of Victory for Sendai Ikuei Gakuen at Summer Koshien 2022 Sendai Ikuei Gakuen won the 104th National High School Baseball Championship. A dynamic shot capturing players on the mound and dust flying into the air. The combination of the winners raising their hands to the sky while a member of the losing team watches creates a very dramatic scene, and we have selected it as this contest's Grand Prize winner. ■Honorable Mentions ・Hanshin Koshien Stadium (Osaka) ・Rural Scenery ・Fukagawa Hachiman Festival (Tokyo) ・Nokonoshima Island (Fukuoka) ・A Sunflower Field ・Utsukushigahara Farm (Nagano) Click here to see the honorable mention photos [May 2022 - June 2022] The 11th COOL JAPAN VIDEOS Photo Contest: Announcement of Results Theme: Japan's Outdoors Prizes: ●Grand Prize: 30,000 yen Amazon gift card ●Honorable Mentions: 10,000 yen Amazon gift card ■Grand Prize Photographer: HIROKI Location: Hoshi ni Te no Todoku Oka Campsite (Hokkaido) CoolJapanVideos Judges' Comments: Hoshi ni Te no Todoku Oka Campsite in Nakafurano, Hokkaido A contrast between the beautiful starry sky and warm camp lights. We have selected this photo as the Grand Prize winner for its clear skies and the captivating nature of Furano. ■Honorable Mentions ・Paddleboarding at sunset on Matsue Beach (Akashi, Hyogo) ・Canoeing and autumn leaves at Lake Chuzenji (Nikko, Tochigi) ・The swing of Heidi, Girl of the Alps, at Hakuba Iwatake Mountain Resort (Kitaazumi, Nagano) ・Fuji on New Year's Day from a campground (Fuji, Shizuoka) ・Scuba diving at the Aragusuku Islands (Yaeyama, Okinawa) Click here to see the honorable mention photos [March 2022 - April 2022] The 10th COOL JAPAN VIDEOS Photo Contest: Announcement of Results Theme: Nature in Japan Prizes: ●Grand Prize: 30,000 yen Amazon gift card ●Honorable Mentions: 10,000 yen Amazon gift card ■Grand Prize Photographer: st situation Location: A tea plantation (Kamikawa, Hyogo) CoolJapanVideos Judges' Comments: The scenery of a tea plantation reminds us of the mountains that symbolize Japan. You can practically smell the crisp green air. We have selected this photo as the Grand Prize for its depiction of nature, which has been an integral part of life for the Japanese as an agrarian people since ancient times. ■Honorable Mentions ・Diamond Fuji and swans at Lake Yamanaka (Yamanakako, Yamanashi) ・A sea of clouds at the Yakuno Highlands (Fukuchiyama, Kyoto) ・Cherry blossoms at Koiwai Farm (Iwate District, Iwate) ・A midwinter glow (Kikuchi, Kumamoto) ・An evening view of Komezuka in autumn (Aso, Kumamoto Prefecture) Click here to see the honorable mention photos [January 2022 - February 2022] The 9th COOL JAPAN VIDEOS Photo Contest: Announcement of Results Theme: Japanese Events Prizes: ●Grand Prize: 30,000 yen Amazon gift card ●Honorable Mentions: 10,000 yen Amazon gift card ■Grand Prize Photographer: 甚四郎 Location: The Shiozawa Seppu Snow Festival (Minamiuonuma, Niigata) CoolJapanVideos Judges' Comments: The Shiozawa Seppu Snow Festival is held every year on the third Saturday in February in Shiozawa, Minamiuonuma, Niigata. This fantastic festival in the snow is held in honor of Bokushi Suzuki, the author of "Hokuetsu Seppu" and a literary figure of the Edo period, and to pass on the culture of the snow country. We are pleased to present the grand prize to this photograph of a beautiful, traditional festival featuring magical flames burning in the snow. ■Honorable Mentions ・The Kawarayu Onsen Yukake Festival (Naganohara, Gunma) ・Ose Festival, Uchiura Fishing Port Festival (Numazu, Shizuoka) ・Menburyu (Kashima, Saga) ・Bean-throwing on Setsubun ・A traditional bridal procession Click here to see the honorable mention photos [November 2021 - December 2021] The 8th COOL JAPAN VIDEOS Photo Contest: Announcement of Results Theme: Winter in Japan Prizes: ●Grand Prize: 30,000 yen Amazon gift card ●Honorable Mentions: 10,000 yen Amazon gift card ■Grand Prize Photographer: yuzu rin Location: The Weeping Cherry of Gion in Maruyama Park during winter (Kyoto city, Kyoto) CoolJapanVideos Judges' Comments: The Weeping Cherry of Gion in Maruyama Park, one of the most famous cherry blossom viewing spots in Kyoto Prefecture, and not far from Shijo-Kawaramachi and Gion, Kyoto's downtown area. The cherry blossoms bloom in spring and are popular with many tourists, but this photo shows the beauty of the cherry trees in winter, and the weeping cherry bathing in the moonlight gives the viewer a sense of Japanese wabi-sabi. We would like to award the Grand Prize to this photo, which exudes an overwhelming presence. ■Honorable Mentions ・A group of students going to school in the snow (Tokyo) ・Foxes at Zao Fox Village (Shiroishi, Miyagi) ・A shinkansen traveling through the snow (Maibara, Shiga) ・Eel fishing at night (Tokushima City, Tokushima) ・Snowy scenery at Lake Nakamaki (Nagano City, Nagano) Click here to see the honorable mention photos [September 2021 - October 2021] The 7th COOL JAPAN VIDEOS Photo Contest: Announcement of Results Theme: Autumn in Japan Prizes: ●Grand Prize: 30,000 yen Amazon gift card ●Honorable Mentions: 10,000 yen Amazon gift card ■Grand Prize Photographer: st situation Location: Iwagami Shrine (Shiso, Hyogo) CoolJapanVideos Judges' Comments: Ginkgo trees at Iwagami Shrine in Hyogo Prefecture. The yellow carpet and the ginkgo leaves dancing in the wind create an amazing, autumnal atmosphere. The grand prize goes to this photo, which captures a rare and spectacular view that can only be seen during the autumn foliage season. ■Honorable Mentions ・A harvest moon and otsukimi decorations ・Shrine maidens dancing at Dazaifu Tenmangu Shrine (Dazaifu, Fukuoka) ・The "see no evil, hear no evil, speak no evil" Jizo statues at Daisho-in Temple (Hatsukaichi, Hiroshima) ・Silver grass on the Tonomine Highlands (Kanzaki, Hyogo) ・Rolls of straw after rice harvesting Click here to see the honorable mention photos [July 2021 - August 2021] The 6th COOL JAPAN VIDEOS Photo Contest: Announcement of Results Theme: Summer in Japan Prizes: ●Grand Prize: 30,000 yen Amazon gift card ●Honorable Mentions: 10,000 yen Amazon gift card ■Grand Prize Photographer: Lily0321 Location: The Fukagawa Festival (Koto, Tokyo) CoolJapanVideos Judges' Comments: The Fukagawa Festival is a festival held every year around August 15 at Tomioka Hachimangu Shrine in Koto, Tokyo. It is one of the Three Great Festivals of Edo and has a history of around 370 years. It is also known as the "Water Throwing Festival" because people splash water around to beat the heat. We were very impressed by the dynamism and the smiles of the participants splashing water on each other in the photo. We would like to award the Grand Prize to this photo that captures the spirit of traditional Japanese festivals. ■Honorable Mentions ・Blue skies and a red Mt. Fuji (Oshino, Yamanashi) ・Blue skies and a bicycle (Hyogo, Japan) ・Bug catching in the rice paddies ・The sea and terraced rice paddies (Hirado, Nagasaki) ・Children playing in a fountain (Toshima, Tokyo) Click here to see the honorable mention photos [May 2021 - June 2021] The 5th COOL JAPAN VIDEOS Photo Contest: Announcement of Results Theme: Places in Japan you want to visit After Corona Prizes: ●Grand Prize: 30,000 yen Amazon gift card ●Honorable Mentions: 10,000 yen Amazon gift card ■Grand Prize Photographer: Nguyen Vu Location: Umeda (Osaka City, Osaka) CoolJapanVideos Judges' Comments: This contest's grand prize winner is a scene of a Japanese city at night with neon lights. The lights in the downtown area, which we have always taken for granted, have become lonely due to Corona. We chose this work with the hope that the colorful neon lights and the smiling faces of the people will soon return. ■Honorable Mentions ・A couple wearing yukata at the Gion Festival (Kyoto City, Kyoto) ・A leopard at Asahiyama Zoo (Asahikawa, Hokkaido) ・Sunset at Chirihama Nagisa Driveway (Hakui, Ishikawa) ・Geiko in Higashiyama (Kyoto City, Kyoto) ・Fireworks in Noshiro (Noshiro, Akita) Click here to see the honorable mention photos [March 2021 - April 2021] The 4th COOL JAPAN VIDEOS Photo Contest: Announcement of Results Theme: Spring in Japan Prizes: ●Grand Prize: 30,000 yen Amazon gift card ●Honorable Mentions: 10,000 yen Amazon gift card ■Grand Prize Photographer: toru.s_ Location: Cherry blossoms and rape blossoms at Sakitama Kofun Park (Gyoda, Saitama) CoolJapanVideos Judges' Comments: Climbing up the hill you'll feel the breath of spring and discover beautiful scenery all around you. We would like to award the Grand Prize to the entry that expresses a path to hope, as if heading towards the exit of a Corona filled world. ■Honorable Mentions ・A horseback archery tournament (Towada, Aomori) ・A child walking along a path lined with cherry trees (Kaga, Ishikawa) ・Cherry blossoms and a sea of clouds at Omori Resort Village (Yokote, Akita) ・Snowy mountains and cherry blossoms at Oide Park (Hakuba, Nagano) ・An onagadori and plum blossoms Click here to see the honorable mention photos [January 2021 - February 2021] The 3rd COOL JAPAN VIDEOS Photo Contest: Announcement of Results Theme: Winter in Japan Prizes: ●Grand Prize: 30,000 yen Amazon gift card ●Honorable Mentions: 10,000 yen Amazon gift card ■Grand Prize Photographer: rikopapa Location: Unknown CoolJapanVideos Judges' Comments: One of the most popular New Year's activities is kite flying We're happy to see that this traditional game, which has been around since the Edo period, has been passed down to today's children. The cold winter air and the warmth of the sun's rays are so gentle that it almost feels as if they're watching over you. We'd like to award the Grand Prize to the photo that evokes said nostalgia. ■Honorable Mentions ・A snowy Atago Shrine (Beppu, Oita) ・The snowy landscape of the Kirigamine Highlands (Suwa, Nagano) ・The snowy townscape of Hida Takayama (Takayama, Gifu) ・Japanese macaques bathing in hot springs (Shimotakai, Nagano) ・Swans flying south for the winter (Azumino, Nagano) Click here to see the honorable mention photos [November 2020 - December 2020] The 2nd COOL JAPAN VIDEOS Photo Contest: Announcement of Results Theme: Japanese Gourmet Prizes: ●Grand Prize: 10,000 yen Amazon gift card ●Honorable Mentions: 5,000 yen Amazon gift card ■Grand Prize Photographer: しゅん Location: KUROMATSU Ramen (Takasaki, Gunma) CoolJapanVideos Judges' Comments: This is a photo that conveys the deliciousness of a popular ramen restaurant that's always attracting long lines of customers. The clear soup and neatly arranged noodles create a beautiful display. ■Honorable Mentions Here are the themes of the honorable mentions. ・Ozoni - Near Ishimizu Hachimangu Shrine (Kyoto City, Kyoto) ・Kaki-no-ha Sushi Yamanobe (Sakurai, Nara) ・Hana-bi Dango - Terakoya Honpo (Kyoto City, Kyoto) ・Shiruko - Toraya Kobo (Gotemba, Shizuoka) ・Fisherman's Pickled Seafood Bowl - Izu Kogen Brewery (Ito, Shizuoka) Click here to see the honorable mention photos [September 2020 - October 2020] The 1st COOL JAPAN VIDEOS Photo Contest: Announcement of Results Theme: The Beauty of Japan Prizes: ●Grand Prize: 200,000 yen Amazon gift card ●Honorable Mentions: 50,000 yen Amazon gift card ■Grand Prize Photographer: Yuto Yamada Location: Daigoji Temple (Kyoto City, Kyoto) CoolJapanVideos Judges' Comments: This work matches the theme "The Beauty of Japan" and is a perfect fit for the Grand Prize. The sentimentality of autumn, the wabi-sabi of Japan, and the modesty of Japan are all expressed in a single photograph. The colors of the leaves and the colors of the kimono and Japanese umbrellas worn by the people match perfectly, making it a very attractive picture. ■Honorable Mentions ・The torii in the sky at Takaya Shrine (Kanonji, Kagawa) ・Fresh greenery at Hase Temple (Sakurai, Nara) ・Mt. Fuji and Lake Ashi in winter (Kanagawa, Japan) ・Tea picking at Obuchi Sasaba with Mt. Fuji in the background (Fuji, Shizuoka) The grand prize for the memorable 1st COOL JAPAN VIDEOS Photo Contest was 200,000 yen, with honorable mentions awarded 50,000 yen each! We received many submissions that conveyed the beauty of Japan. Many of the works included famous sightseeing spots and traditional events in Japan, the beautiful scenery of spring, summer, fall, and winter, as well as Japanese culture and history. In addition to one grand prize winner and five honorable mentions, 50 entries were selected from the first contest. Click here to see the honorable mention photos and other submissions The winning photos and other entries were used in the promotional video for COOL JAPAN VIDEOS. The 1 minute and 40 second video shows one beautiful photo after another with each photographer's name, and is a collection of Japan's "wabi-sabi." Please take a look at it. What is COOL JAPAN VIDEOS? COOL JAPAN VIDEOS is a social video curation site that introduces the charms of Japan to people all over the world who are interested in Japan. ・We carefully select and present attractive videos of Japan from major video sites ・Users can communicate with people all over the world by posting photos and commenting on videos ・You can have your own "My Page," and registration is completely free! Click here for more information about COOLJAPANVIDEOS Features of COOL JAPAN VIDEOS Photo Contests 「COOL JAPAN VIDEOS photo contests are open to everyone! Below is a partial list of what can be entered. ・Photos taken not only with SLR cameras and digital cameras, but also with smartphones and other devices can be submitted. ・You can submit as many photos as you like during the contest period. ・Image editing, such as cropping and color changes, is also allowed! Detailed submission guidelines for COOL JAPAN VIDEOS Photo Contests can be found at the bottom of the ongoing photo contest page. About Past Entries We received many great photos in our past photo contests! Click the link below to view past photo contest entries! ※Click here to see photos submitted in past contests. Photo Contest Summary We are always holding COOL JAPAN VIDEOS Photo Contests! Not only professional photographers, but also beginner photographers are welcome to enter. Even just a casual shot taken via smartphone has a chance to be a winning photo! Help us introduce the beauty of Japan with the world. We're looking forward to receiving everyone's submissions! Related Articles Text only Photo Contest Landscape Photography - Introducing 10 Beautiful Japanese Landscapes Text only Children of COOL JAPAN VIDEOS Photo Contests: 10 Heartwarming Photos That Will Put a Smile on Your Face! Text only Autumn in COOL JAPAN VIDEOS Photo Contests: 10 Beautiful Photos of Autumn in Japan Text only Mt. Fuji in COOL JAPAN VIDEOS Photo Contests: 10 Photos Showcasing the Different Views of Mt. Fuji Text only Hokkaido in COOL JAPAN VIDEOS Photo Contests: From Popular Sightseeing Spots to Exotic Animals, Discover the Beauty of Japan's Northernmost Prefecture! Text only Tohoku in COOL JAPAN VIDEOS Photo Contests: Hot Springs, Festivals, Snowscapes, and More – 10 Beautiful Photos of Japan's Tohoku Region! 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Japanese People Smiling 100 Years Ago (Taisho Period): Video Introduction Source :YouTube screenshot This video, titled "Japanese people's smile from 100 years ago (colorization / extended definition)," was uploaded by "笑顔のおっさんチャンネル A Smiley Daddy's Channel." The photos in the video were taken approximately 100 years ago, from 1914 to 1918, by Elstner Hilton, an American who went to Japan to sell sawmill machines. At this time, the world was in the midst of war as World War I had broken out. Japan was in the midst of a war economy and enjoying the "Taisho Roman style," a reimagining of traditional Japanese clothing worn in modern styles. Taisho Period Japan is very similar to the roaring 20's (1920s) of America, with the country experiencing a renaissance of arts, cultural, and political ideology. Flappers, a subculture of young women in the west at the time who yearned for an independent lifestyle, can even be seen in the so-called "Moga" (Modern Girl) of Japan, that arose during this time, both in ideology and fashion. Check out the colorized and high-resolution video showing Japanese people smiling while going about life 100 years ago. Smiles on the Faces of Japanese People in the Taisho Period Source :YouTube screenshot The people who appear in the video were living in the same period as World War I. Incidentally, this is the same time period as the setting of the popular anime/manga "Demon Slayer." Because these people are living in a time of war, their smiles are very strong and leave a lasting impression. The video shows various black & white photos that have been colorized. Let's take a look at some of the most impressive photos. Work Clothing and Clothes Worn in Everyday Life in Taisho Period Japan Source :YouTube screenshot A number of the photographs show men and women working during the Taisho Period. They can be seen making waraji (traditional shoes), plowing fields, harvesting rice, and winnowing rice. They wore kimono called noragi, and women wore work pants called monpe, and they often tied up the sleeves of their kimono using a cord called a "tasuki." Much of the clothing they wore made it easier for them to move around. [Video] 0:37 - A Man in a Straw Hat Plowing a Field Many women working in this period wore tenugui (handkerchiefs) around their heads to protect their heads, in what was called "hokkamuri." [Video] 0:42 - A Female Farmer Wearing a Kimono and a Handkerchief [Video] 1:31 - Women Picking Tea Leaves With Their Kimono Sleeves Tied Up [Video] 2:43 - Two Girls Winnowing Rice In summer, the people can be seen wearing short-sleeved kimono. [Video] 2:25 - A Woman in a Short-Sleeved Kimono, and a Man in a Straw Hat and Short Pants in Summer The photo, "Flower Vendor with Cart," shows two children and a man selling flowers. [Video] 2:48 - A Man Selling Flowers and Children in Kimono [Video] 2:55 - A Woman Holding a Basket and Wearing a Kimono and Monpe Work Pants Japanese Men's and Women's Festival & Event Clothing: Cultural Clothing in the Taisho Period Source :YouTube screenshot For New Year's attire and other occasions, single women wear furisode, which is considered formal attire, and wear their hair in a traditional Japanese style with hair ornaments. Men wore haori and hakama and yamatakabo (bowler hats) or flat caps. [Video] 0:02 - A Girl Wearing a Furisode [Video] 0:07 - A Woman Wearing Furisode and a Traditional Japanese Hair Style [Video] 0:48 - Women Wearing Kimono at a Tea Party We can also see young women enjoying some snacks with smiles on their faces. They're wearing kimono with vertical stripes and other small patterns, and for some reason, they are wearing tenugui (hand towels) around their necks. Perhaps a fashion trend at the time? [Video] 0:55 - Stylish Women With Traditional Japanese Hair Styles, Hair Ornaments, and Tenugui Around Their Necks [Video] 1:00 - A Group Photo Featuring Women With Hair Ornaments and Men in Hats Japanese Children's Clothing in the Taisho Period Source :YouTube screenshot Children's smiles are always heartwarming. Let's take a look at the clothing of children of the Taisho Period in the video. Many of the boys are wearing kasuri-patterned kimono and sandals, and some of the children wear maegake (aprons) to keep their kimono clean. There are also some girls wearing kimono with a haori of the same pattern as the kimono, which may be a kasuri or komon. [Video] 0:15 - A Girl in a Kimono Beside a Man Making a Waraji Sandals [Video] 0:21 - A Boy Wearing a Kimono and Maegake Apron, and a Girl Wearing a Kimono [Video] 1:13 - Boys Wearing Kimono [Video] 1:26 - A Girl Wearing a Kimono Behind the Azaleas Various Seasonal and Situational Clothing in Japan Source :YouTube screenshot The photo called "Dressed for Rain" is one that shows the lifestyle of the time. We can see that men wore straw raincoats even in this period. The woman holding a shamisen and smiling at a festival is very memorable. You can feel the liberating atmosphere of the festival. [Video] 1:19 - A Woman Participating in a Festival With a Shamisen [Video] 1:37 - A Man Wearing a Straw Raincoat and a Woman With an Umbrella [Video] 2:13 - A Woman in a Short-Sleeved Kimono on the Porch During Summer [Video] 3:01 - A Woman Taking a Bath in a Wooden Tub Bringing Historic Photos to Life With Colorization Technology Source :YouTube screenshot The photos featured in the video are all black and white photos that have been colorized using colorization technology that converts them into color photos with natural coloration. This colorization technology was established through the research of Professor Hiroshi Ishikawa, Assistant Professor Satoshi Iizuka, and Assistant Professor Edgar Simo-Serra of the School of Science and Engineering at Waseda University. This technology is based on AI (Artificial Intelligence) technology called deep learning, which automatically colors the target image and colorizes it. Natural colorization is achieved on various images as well as black-and-white photos, and the colorization results have even been evaluated to have an accuracy of approximately 90%. Until now, colorizing was done on film or performed manually, which was not inexpensive. However, with the development of this technology, it's now possible to colorize black-and-white photos simply by using an application available for free on the Internet. Summary of Clothing and Smiles of Japanese People 100 Years Ago Source :YouTube screenshot The beautiful colors that emerge are so beautiful that it's hard to believe that they were taken 100 years ago. They're truly invaluable photos. Colorization technology is a wonderful technique that transforms old black and white photos into vibrant color photos. Old family photos and historical photos can be brought to life as well. The smiling faces of Japanese people who lived 100 years ago in the Taisho Period are captured in color so vividly that it is almost as if they were people living today. The color images also add to the glamour of the outfits. You can easily colorize your own memorable photos, so if you're interested, consider giving it a try!

Introducing Aso in Kumamoto Prefecture! This video, titled “Best Views of Japan – Unexplored｜Searching for Laputa in Aso, Only To Find That Aso Is Laputa!” (日本一の絶景　秘境　 ラピュタの道を阿蘇に探しに行ったら、阿蘇の全てがラピュタだった), was released by “Drone RangerMiura.” It introduces the beautiful summer scenery of Aso, Kumamoto Prefecture, in Japan’s Kyushu region. The scenery of Aso Gogaku (阿蘇五岳, The Five Peaks of Mt. Aso), shot via drone, looks just like the world of the Studio Ghibli movie "Laputa: Castle in the Sky." In the Aso area, there are sightseeing spots called "Laputa Road" (ラピュタの道) and "Laputa Modoki" (ラピュタもどき), which have been attracting attention from people who enjoy going on casual drives to enjoy scenic locations. A Look at Laputa Road, Shown in the Video Photo：Aso, Kumamoto Prefecture The official name of “Laputa Road” is “Aso City Road Kario Main Line” (阿蘇市道狩尾幹線). From Prefectural Road 149 to Prefectural Road 339 (a.k.a. Milk Road), which runs over the outer rim of the mountain, a mysterious phenomenon creates a sea of clouds, allowing for breathtaking views. At 0:33 in the video, cows and horses are shown, and at 1:05, a beautiful waterfall can be seen. In the Aso area, you can go for a walk and discover the unexplored natural scenery, as well as enjoy activities, such as horseback riding and stargazing. Popular Spots in the Aso Area Introduced in the Video Photo：Daikanbo Lookout on Mt. Aso, Kumamoto Prefecture There are many spots in the Aso area where you can enjoy superb scenery, such as the Laputa Road Observatory and the Daikanbo Lookout (大観峰展望台) on Daikanbo, one of the peaks of the Northern Outer Rim of Mt. Aso. If you visit the Aso area to view the scenery, be sure to stop by the observatory! There are also many park facilities, such as the Oku-Aso Fruit Garden (奥あそフルーツガーデン), Rakunoh Mother's Aso Milk Ranch (阿蘇ミルク牧場), and Aso Farmland (阿蘇ファームランド). Be sure to check out Aso Shrine (阿蘇神社) as well! Points To Note When Sightseeing in the Aso Area Photo：The Nanatsugama Caves, Kumamoto Prefecture In the Aso area, there are many places of interest, such as the Nanatsugama Caves in Saga Prefecture's Karatsu, which is designated as a national natural monument, and Kusasenrigahama. However, due to risk of eruption, the area around the crater has been placed on alert and entry is now restricted. The 2016 Kumamoto earthquakes also caused some road closures in the Aso area. When visiting Aso, be sure to pay attention to observation information and alerts/warnings. Summary of the Aso Area Photo：Mt. Aso, Kumamoto Prefecture Aso is one of the most popular tourist spots in the Kyushu area thanks to the natural beauty of the mountains and sea. If you're looking to experience what it's like to be in the world of "Castle in the Sky," then you should definitely drop by Aso for a visit! 【Tripadvisor】Mt. Aso https://www.tripadvisor.com/ShowUserReviews-g298212-d320703-r710938456-Mt_Aso-Kumamoto_Prefecture_Kyushu.html

Video Introduction of “Giant Salamander” Appeared in Kamogawa River, Kyoto, Japan This is a video of the Giant Salamander, a protected species, that appeared in Kyoto's Kamo River. The giant salamander is the world’s largest amphibian. The characteristics of giant salamanders is their large body, which is approximately 150cm (~5 ft.) long. Giant salamanders have not changed in form since ancient times, and as such, they are referred to as "living fossils." What Are Giant Salamanders? Photo：Giant salamander Japanese Giant Salamanders belong to the animalia kingdom, chordata phylum, and amphibia class. They are also referred to as "Hanzaki" in Japanese. It is an endemic species living in the south western part of Japan. The mucus giant salamanders secrete on their skin smells like Japanese pepper (Sansho), so they are called "Sansho Uo" in Japanese. Chinese giant salamanders are very similar to Japanese giant salamanders. There's not much difference between Japanese giant salamanders and Chinese giant salamanders, and it is difficult to identify them based on appearance. In China, there is a theory that earthquakes occurs when giant salamanders appear. Are There Many Giant Salamanders Living in Kyoto's Kamo River? Photo：Kyoto As you can see in the video, giant salamanders are often seen in Kyoto's Kamo River basin. However, according to genetic research in the Kyoto area, the native species are extinct and the ones currently living in the city are likely to be non-native, hybrids, or a new species. In Kyoto, heavy rains and typhoons often cause the Kamo River to flood. After it rains, you can find salamanders that were washed downstream from Kumogahata village. The video begins with a giant salamander, over 1 meter in length, walking slowly along the path. It stops moving after 0:07, but you can see it slowly raising its head a couple of times. Giant Salamanders at the Kyoto Aquarium! Photo：Giant salamander At Kyoto Aquarium, there is a special display area of giant salamanders, and if you're lucky, you may even hear their low guttural call. You can also buy stuffed giant salamanders at the aquarium's souvenir shop. At the aquarium, more research is being done on giant salamanders. According to studies, the average life expectancy of a Giant Salamander is 80 years, but some live more than 200 years. Summary of the Giant Salamander at Kamo River Source :YouTube screenshot Many of you may have been surprised by the sheer size of the salamander in the video. There are many reports of salamander sightings along the Kamo River, so it's a good place to stop by when sightseeing in Kyoto. You can also visit the Kyoto Aquarium to learn more about the biology of the Japanese giant salamander. 【Official Website】Kyoto Aquarium- A short walk from Umekoji-Kyotonishi Station https://www.kyoto-aquarium.com/