COOL JAPAN VIDEOS is always holding photo contests. This time, we have selected photos that capture a glimpse of autumn from among those submitted to our past photo contests. Autumn in Japan means autumn leaves, seasonal foods, outdoor activities, sports, art, travel, and so much more. Some of the photographs introduced in this article can only be taken under very specific conditions and with the right timing. We hope you take the time to enjoy them. COOL JAPAN VIDEOS is a social, video curation site that introduces the charms of Japan to people around the world who are interested in Japan. Our photo contests allow you to participate and even win with photos taken via your smartphone! Stick around to learn more! ■Table of Contents - Autumn in Past Photo Contests  The Maple Corridor of Lake Kawaguchi  Ryuzu Falls, Nikko  Daisho-in Temple  Bales of Straw After a Rice Harvest  Akatombo (Red Dragonflies)  Hitachi Seaside Park  Takeda Castle Ruins, the Castle in the Sky  Salmon Spawning in Hokkaido  Spider Lilies - Features of COOL JAPAN VIDEOS Photo Contests - Current Photo Contest - Summary of Autumn in COOL JAPAN VIDEOS Photo Contests Autumn in Past Photo Contests Past COOL JAPAN VIDEOS photo contests were filled with many wonderful works that convey the charms of Japan! Let's take a look at some of the wonderful photos taken in autumn. We'll also include the locations where the photos were taken and related articles for reference. COOLJAPANVIDEOS Photographer: Phúc Jindo Location: Lake Kawaguchiko (Minamitsuru, Yamanashi) The Maple Corridor of Lake Kawaguchi, a Photogenic Spot in Autumn Mt. Fuji and Lake Kawaguchi are extremely popular among photographers. 400-500 maples can be seen along the shores of Lake Kawaguchi, making this area one of the best places for photographing the beautifully colored leaves that cover the road and create a tunnel of autumn leaves. The Fuji Kawaguchiko Autumn Leaves Festival is held every year from late October to mid-November, and the illuminated corridor offers a fantastic view of autumn leaves and Mt. Fuji. An Article on Mt. Fuji Video article 4:21 Fuji - Japan's Largest Tourist Attraction and the Pride of the Country. Its Mysterious Beauty Fascinates All Who See It YouTube COOLJAPANVIDEOS Photographer: YOU Location: Ryuzu Falls (Nikko, Tochigi) The Charms of Ryuzu Falls, Nikko Ryuzu Falls is one of the three most famous waterfalls in Nikko. The name Ryuzu (竜頭 Ryuzu, lit "Dragon's Head") comes from its resemblance to a dragon's head, which is divided into two halves by large rocks. Starting in late September, visitors to the falls can enjoy beautiful autumn leaves, and from May to June, the vibrant magenta of the azaleas can be observed. An Article on Sightseeing in Nikko Video article 10:36 A Look at the Beautiful Autumnal Scenery Created by Mother Nature! Enjoy Autumn in Japan With Kegon Falls and the Autumn Foliage of Lake Chuzenji, Two of Nikko, Tochigi's Most Famous Scenic Spots! YouTube COOLJAPANVIDEOS Photographer: なもち＠広島おでかけちゃんねる Location: Daisho-in Temple (Hatsukaichi, Hiroshima) Highlights of Daisho-in Temple Daisho-in Temple is the oldest and most prestigious temple in Miyajima, Hiroshima, and was founded by Kobo Daishi (Kukai), the Japanese Buddhist monk that founded the esoteric Shingon school of Buddhism. The temple is said to have been visited by great figures, such as Toyotomi Hideyoshi and Ito Hirobumi, successive members of the imperial family, and in 2006, the 14th Dalai Lama. The temple is home to many attractions, including the Five Hundred Rakan (Arhats), each wearing a hat and bearing a different expression; Henjokutsu Cave, a beautiful cave with 88 depictions of Buddha and lanterns covering the ceiling; and many cute Jizo statues. Daisho-in Temple, a power spot and one of Miyajima's most popular tourist attractions, is located just 5-minutes from Itsukushima Shrine. An Article on Sightseeing in Hiroshima Video article 8:04 Itsukushima Shrine Is a Popular Spot in Hiroshima You Don't Want to Miss! The Vermilion-Lacquered Torii Gate Over the Sea Is a Fantastic Sight, Chosen as One of the Three Most Beautiful Sights of Japan! YouTube COOLJAPANVIDEOS Photographer: T.S.P Bales of Straw After a Rice Harvest Terraced rice fields create a variety of landscapes, and the verdant rice paddies seem to extend to the horizon. The picturesque scenery of rice paddies, with their uniquely Japanese atmosphere, evokes a sense of familiarity. Autumn is associated with autumn leaves, but bales of straw, which can be seen only for a short period of time after the rice harvest, are one of the signature landscapes of Hokkaido. These bales of straw are used as cattle feed during the harsh winters of northern Japan. An Article on Sightseeing in Hyogo Video article 4:00 The Beautiful Rice Paddies of Japan in 4K. Golden Ears of Rice Painted on the Horizon Bring Peace to the People of Japan YouTube COOLJAPANVIDEOS Photographer: Lily0321 Akatombo (Red Dragonflies) In Japan, many people know that autumn has arrived when they see red dragonflies flying about. In Japanese, "Akatombo" (red dragonfly) is a generic name for dragonflies belonging to the family of dragonflies in the genus "Akane." There are 21 species of dragonflies belonging to the Akane genus in Japan. The wandering gliders (pantala flavescens) that fly in swarms in autumn are also sometimes called akatombo. An Article on the Oniyanma, the Largest Dragonfly in Japan Video article 1:30 The Oniyanma: Amazing Footage of Japan's Largest Dragonfly! See It Molting and Laying Eggs in Nature... YouTube COOLJAPANVIDEOS Photographer: k Yoji Location: Hitachi Seaside Park (Hitachinaka, Ibaraki) The Charms of Hitachi Seaside Park Hitachi Seaside Park is a place where visitors can enjoy seasonal flowers and is home to the Kochia Carnival from early to late October. Miharashi Hill is covered with about 32,000 bright red kochia (summer cypress), making it a photogenic spot popular among instagrammers. In spring, daffodils, tulips, and nemophila (baby blue eyes) are at their best, and in summer, the green kochia are lit up at night with colorful LED lights, creating a different atmosphere from that of the daytime. An Article on Sightseeing in Ibaraki Video article 5:05 Ibaraki Prefecture: A Tourist Attraction With Everything From Nature to the Latest in World-Class Space Technology. An In-Depth Look at Ibaraki's Cuisine and History! YouTube COOLJAPANVIDEOS Photographer: Nguyen Vu Location: The Takeda Castle Ruins: The Castle in the Sky (Asago, Hyogo) The Charms of the Takeda Castle Ruins, the Castle in the Sky The Takeda Castle Ruins, dubbed the Machu Picchu of Japan, is a site built entirely of stone walls on the 353.7-meter-tall summit of Mt. Kojo. The sight of the castle floating in the sea of clouds is truly fantastic, and the title of "Castle in the Sky" is no exaggeration. Although many people are determined to see this spectacular view, the sea of clouds only presents itself when the weather and other conditions are just right. The sea of clouds most often occurs between September and October, from dawn to around 8:00 a.m. Fog tends to form when there is a temperature difference of more than 10°C between day and night, when it is sunny during the day and cool at night, and when the wind is light. An Article on the Takeda Castle Ruins, the Castle in the Sky Video article 2:29 Behold the Mesmerizing Scenery of Takeda Castle, Hidden in a Sea of Clouds in Asago, Hyogo! Called the "Machu Picchu of Japan" and "Castle in the Sky," Takeda Castle Attracts Thousands of Tourists From All Over the World! YouTube COOLJAPANVIDEOS Photographer: 古谷久樹 Location: Hokkaido Salmon Spawning in Hokkaido in Autumn and Winter Salmon swimming upriver is a typical view during autumn in Hokkaido. In autumn, many salmon head upstream to spawn. The sight of the salmon, which have spent around four years growing up in the Pacific Ocean, risking their lives to return home while their bodies are battered by rocks and other obstacles, shows the beauty of life and evokes a feeling of romance. They can be seen in Hokkaido's Toyohira River, Kotonihassamu River, Uyoro River, and Hamamasu River among others. An Article on Hokkaido's Ezo Brown Bears and Salmon Video article 7:40 Ezo Brown Bears Catching Lunch in the Outdoors of Hokkaido! See the 2-Meter-Tall Bears Snatching Fish From a River Right Before Your Eyes! YouTube COOLJAPANVIDEOS Photographer: Haruna Location: Kuhonji Temple (Gosho, Nara) The Charms of Spider Lilies In late September, Kuhonji Temple is so popular that early in the morning, many people scramble to find a spot to photograph the bright red spider lilies and the morning sunrise. In Japan, spider lilies are called higanbana (lit. "Higan Flowers") because they bloom around the time of Higan, a Buddhist holiday exclusively observed in Japan, but they are also called "manjushage," which in Sanskrit means "The flower that blooms in the heavens." In the language of flowers, it has the meaning of passion, and its short flowering period of only about a week gives it a mysterious, ephemeral charm. An Article on the Red Spider Lily Festival of Hidaka, Saitama Video article 3:49 Discover More Than 5 Million Spider Lilies at the "Red Spider Lily Festival" at Kinchakuda in Hidaka, Saitama, One of the Largest Blooming Areas in Japan! The Sea of Red Will Take Your Breath Away YouTube Features of COOL JAPAN VIDEOS Photo Contests COOL JAPAN VIDEOS is a social, video curation site that showcases the charms of Japan to people around the world who are interested in Japan. Click here for more information about COOLJAPANVIDEOS Anyone can enter COOL JAPAN VIDEOS' photo contests! Below are some of the features of our contests. ・On top of single-lens reflex cameras and digital cameras, photos taken with smartphones and other devices can also be submitted. ・Each person can submit as many photos as they like during the contest period. ・Editing of images, such as cropping and color changes, is also allowed! Here you can find all of the past photo contest winners in one place. You can also see the prizes for each contest, as well as the locations where the photos were taken and the judges' critiques. Click here to see past photo contest winners Text only Photo Contest Results - COOL JAPAN VIDEOS Winning Photos - Discover the Charms of Japan! Current Photo Contest The following is information about the current photo contest. [Ongoing From March2024] The 22th COOL JAPAN VIDEOS Photo Contest Theme: Spring in Japan Submission period: March 1, 2024 12:00 AM – April 30, 2024 11:59 PM (JST) Prizes: ■Grand Prize: 30,000 yen Amazon gift card (1 Winner) ■Honorable Mentions: 10,000 yen Amazon gift card (5 Winners) Spring in Japan Photo Contest Landscape Photography Summary Did you enjoy these landscape photos from past photo contest entries? Some of these landscapes can only be seen in specific conditions. Japan is full of rich nature, historical locations, and seasonal events! Share your photos with the world and help showcase the beauty of Japan through COOL JAPAN VIDEOS! Related Articles 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! Text only Kyoto in COOL JAPAN VIDEOS Photo Contests: 10 Beautiful Photos of Kyoto, the Ancient Capital of Japan, and Its Most Popular Tourist Attractions! Text only Tokyo in COOL JAPAN VIDEOS Photo Contests: 10 Photos Featuring the Charms of Tokyo, the Capital of Japan + Popular Tourist Attractions! Text only Winter in COOL JAPAN VIDEOS Photo Contests: 10 Photos Capturing the Beauty of Winter in Japan. Snowy Landscapes, Glittering Illuminations + More! Text only Kansai in COOL JAPAN VIDEOS Photo Contests: 10 Spectacular Views of Japan's Kansai Region. From Night Views to Traditional Events, Discover the Best Photo Spots in Kansai! Text only Cherry Blossoms in COOL JAPAN VIDEOS Photo Contests: 10 Amazing Views of Cherry Blossoms, from Castles and Temples to Rows of Cherry Blossom! .separation_line { border-width: 0 0 8px; border-style: solid; border-image: url('data:image/svg+xml,') 0 0 100% repeat; width: 216px; margin:auto; margin-bottom: 50px; }

■Table of Contents Overnight Tours in Ogimi, Okinawa: Video Introduction Ogimi Village – One of the Three Yanbaru Villages in Northern Okinawa Ogimi Village, Known as the "Village of Longevity" Ogimi Village, the "Village of Bashofu" Ogimi Village, the "Village of Shikuwasa" Ogimi Village, the "Village of Bunagaya" Enjoy an Overnight Tour and Experience the Lifestyle of Yanbaru in Ogimi Village! 1 Night/2 Day Overnight Plan Recommendations 2-Day/1-Night Overnight Plan – Schedule & Experience Details 2-Day/1-Night Overnight Plan – Tour Details The Best Experience Plans in Yanbaru, Starting From 2 Hours! Ta Waterfall Trekking E-Bike Tour E-Bike Tours & Sabani Boat Cruises Cycling Tour Plan Canoe Tour Yanbaru Forest Starry Sky Tour Popular Spots When Sightseeing in Ogimi Village, Okinawa Kijoka Seven Waterfalls Ishiyama Observatory Roadside Station Ogimi Yanbaru Forest Visitor Center Ogimi Village Tour Plan Summary Overnight Tours to Enjoy Ogimi, Okinawa: Video Introduction The video introduced in this article begins with lighthearted cycling footage that showcases the great nature of Ogimi Village in Okinawa, Japan. It shows how you can experience the food and activities of Ogimi Village with a local guide, and enjoy the sound of a sanshin while camping under a starry night sky, and more! The contents of this video are a condensed version showcasing only a handful of things to do in Ogimi Village. With a tour to Ogimi Village, you can experience the culture and lifestyle of the people of Ogimi Village in a relaxed and casual manner. We hope you'll experience the wonderful time that these exciting tours can provide! Photo：Ogimi Village In this article, we'll introduce things to do in Ogimi Village, as well as some stay plans. After reading this article, you'll be captivated by Ogimi Village and will want to experience what life is like in this village in Northern Okinawa! Ogimi Village – One of the Three Yanbaru Villages in Northern Okinawa Ogimi Village, located in the northern part of Okinawa's main island in Kunigami, consists of 17 villages with a total population of 3,034 and a total of 1,716 households (as of March 2023). The village is about 64 square kilometers (15,800 acres) in size. Ogimi is approximately 87 km (54 mi.) from Naha City and can be accessed in about 2 hours via National Route 58 or about 1 hour and 30 minutes via expressway. Ogimi Village and the neighboring villages of Kunigami and Higashi are called the three villages of Yanbaru (Yanbaru means "the forested northern area of Okinawa"), which was recognized as a World Natural Heritage site in 2021, and is home to many endemic species that can only be seen here, such as the Okinawa rail and Okinawa woodpecker. Photo：The Okinawa rail Ogimi Village is also called the "Village of Longevity," "Village of Bashofu," "Village of Shikuwasa," and "Village of Bunagaya." Ogimi Village, Known as the "Village of Longevity" Ogimi Village is known as the village with the highest longevity in Japan, with a very high percentage of the total population aged 65 years or older (32.5%) as well as people who are 90 years old or older (4.2%), according to the 2015 census. ※The percentage of people over 90 years old in Japan as a whole is 1.6%. Photo：An elderly man in Ogimi Village In 1987, the area was declared the "Village of Longevity" as the area with the highest percentage of elderly people in Japan, and in 1996, it was recognized as the "World's Longest Living Region" by the World Health Organization (WHO). The book "IKIGAI," published in Spain in 2016 and covering the secrets of longevity in Ogimi Village, became an international bestseller, selling more than 5 million copies. The text of the book introduces the ideal life as "the sight of a grandfather or grandmother living a vibrant and rewarding life in Ogimi Village." The book has led to an increase in the number of foreign tourists visiting Ogimi Village and in the number of foreigners who know about Ogimi Village even if they don't know much about Japan. Ogimi Village, the "Village of Bashofu" In Kijoka, an area in Ogimi Village, Kijoka Bashofu, a cloth woven from the fibers of the plantain plant, has long been popular as a fabric for kimono. It's considered a fantastic type of cloth because of how thin and light it is, almost like the wings of a dragonfly. In Okinawa, a place with high humidity, this breathable, light-as-air fabric has been very useful. It takes about three years to grow to a height taller than a person, and each stalk of plantain yields only about 20 grams of fiber, so 200 stalks are needed to weave one roll of Bashofu cloth. Photo：The plantain plant The history of Bashofu dates back to the 13th century, and during the Ryukyu Dynasty (approximately 450 years from the 1400s to the 1800s), there was a position called "Basho Toushoku" (芭蕉当職, lit. "Bashofu Manager") who managed a Basho garden exclusively for the nobility so that they could wear high-quality Bashofu. During the Meiji period (1868-1912), plain or striped Bashofu began to be decorated with kasuri patterns, and developed into a craft. Bashofu was designated an Intangible Cultural Property of the prefecture in 1972, the year Okinawa was returned to Japan, and two years later, in 1974, it was designated an Intangible Cultural Property by the Japanese government. Ogimi Village, the "Village of Shikuwasa" Most of the shikuwasa (flat lemons) distributed in Japan are produced in Okinawa, with Ogimi Village accounting for approximately 60% of the total. Photo：Shikuwasa Shikuwasa is a food rich in nutrients and is considered one of the foods for health and longevity in Okinawa. The nobiletin contained in shikuwasa is said to have the following effects: ・Helps prevent rheumatism, osteoporosis, and cancer ・Lowers blood sugar and blood pressure ・Burns fat, strengthens liver function, improves urination, and improves cognitive function ・Helps relieve complications from urinary disorders, such as frequent urination and enuresis. ・Helps prevent diabetes The secret to Ogimi Village's longevity may be its shikuwasa. Shikuwasa is one of the most popular Furusato Nozei tax return gifts as well. If you're a resident of Japan, be sure to visit the Ogimi Village Furusato Nozei website (※Japanese). Ogimi Village, the "Village of Bunagaya" It's said that Bunagaya, spirits of the forest, live in Yanbaru, a rich natural environment that has been registered as a World Natural Heritage site. Photo：A Bunagaya forest spirit These mysterious bunagaya are said to love peace and nature, and use nature's bounty to show us what they look like. Since World War II, due to the modernization of postwar reconstruction, it's said that they can only be seen in Ogimi Village. Bunagaya live amongst banyan trees and are said to have red hair and are covered with grass and trees. In 1998, Ogimi Village was declared the "Village of Bunagaya" to commemorate the 100th anniversary of Ogimi Village's establishment. Life in Ogimi Village is full of charms, from its longevity, traditional culture, and unique food, to its ancient legends. Overnight tours to Ogimi Village are growing in popularity as a way to experience the secrets of longevity while interacting with local people. Enjoy an Overnight Tour and Experience the Lifestyle of Yanbaru in Ogimi Village! Overnight tours to Ogimi Village are trips to enjoy the nature, food, culture, and history that Ogimi Village has been carefully cultivated throughout the years. This plan allows you to experience the history and culture of Ogimi Village and its people, who live a happy and joyful life in the great outdoors, and to enjoy activities such as cycling, canoeing, trekking, BBQ camping, and a home-stay accommodation, allowing you to choose how you experience Ogimi Village. A basic tour plan is provided, but customers can also consult with the tour guide in advance about a plan that suits them and what they would like to experience. You can choose between private accommodations or camping, and also choose from a variety of exciting activities. There are also experience plans that allow you to fully enjoy Ogimi Village in a short time (2 hours to half a day), so those who cannot stay overnight can also take advantage of these plans. Those who choose the overnight plan can choose to camp overnight at the Miyagi Community Center Plaza, or stay overnight in a home with elderly residents. Those who choose to stay at a private home can experience harvesting in the fields managed by the private home as a member of the family (depending on the season), and enjoy chatting over Okinawan dishes prepared together with the private home owner while learning from him or her. You can see what a meal is like at 0:56 in the video. ※Be sure to consult with the staff in advance if you are a vegan or allergic to any foods. Photo：Homestay Farm Life Experience Tour This Ogimi Village overnight plan is a popular tour among students from all over Japan who are on school trips. There are agricultural experiences to learn the challenges of farming, farm life experiences where you stay in a farmer's home and spend time as a member of the family, nature experiences that make the most of Ogimi Village's natural environment, and cultural experiences where you are taught how to make Okinawan cuisine and play the sanshin (an instrument similar to a banjo). The days spent experiencing the environment, customs, and culture of Ogimi Village and interacting with the elderly residents of the village are a great asset to the students. There are also school trips and educational trips that can accommodate up to 280 people at a time, which are also utilized by the general public. Families with children can enjoy learning during summer vacation, and friends can experience the traditions of Ogimi Village while camping under the starry skies! There are a million ways to enjoy Ogimi Village. One of the charms of the overnight tours is that they not only follow a fixed plan, but can also be tailored to fit your ideal plan through prior consultation. 1 Night/2 Day Overnight Plan Recommendations This plan lets you enjoy canoeing and trekking in the jungle-like subtropical forests and rivers of Yanbaru. You can also look for endemic species of creatures and plants that can only be found in Yanbaru. Outdoor activities will be accompanied by local guides, so you can also learn things that only the locals know about! ※Optional plans must be requested separately. Photo：Yanbaru In the evening, enjoy a barbecue using local ingredients with your host grandmother and grandfather. Enjoy singing and chatting around the campfire while listening to the sound of the sanshin with your host family. Before bedtime, enjoy the grandeur of nature while gazing up at the starry night sky over Yanbaru! 2-Day/1-Night Overnight Plan – Schedule & Experience Details Here is an example of the schedule and activities of the basic plan for the 2-Day/1-Night Overnight Plan in Ogimi Village. ※This is an introduction to the camping plan. ■Day 1: 1:00 p.m. - 11:00 p.m. (Tour base: Miyagi Community Center Plaza and Shioya Bay) [1:00 p.m.] ・Gather at Shioya Miyagi Community Center Plaza ・Self-introductions and explanation of the tour by the staff ・Camp preparations (tent setup, etc.) Photo：Setting up camp [2:00 p.m.] ・Tour around the villages by e-bike with staff guide (choose from Kijoka or Shioya villages) Photo：E-bike village tour [5:00 p.m.] ・Free time after returning to Miyagi Community Center Plaza [6:00 p.m.] ・Start preparing a BBQ dinner made with local ingredients - Enjoy the delicious flavors of Yanbaru with outdoor camping utensils and offal soup. ・Dinner with a view of the sunset ・Enjoy chatting with locals while listening to the sound of the sanshin and watching kachasi (traditional Okinawan dance) ・Stargazing with commentary by a starry sky sommelier who is well versed in the night sky above Yanbaru ※You can see what camping is like at 01:25 in the video. Photo：Camping at night [11:00 p.m.] ・Bedtime prep ■Day 2: 9:00 a.m. - 11:00 a.m. [8:30 a.m.] ・Wake up ・Prepare breakfast ・Camp equipment clean up [10:00 a.m.] ・Miyagi Community Center beach cleanup (SDGs) [11:00 a.m.] ・End of tour In the afternoon, you can apply for various experience plans. ※The above is the schedule for the basic model plan, so you can choose the plan that best suits your preferences by consulting with the tour guide in advance. ※If you wish to stay overnight, please specify this in the inquiry details when you apply. Multiple night stays are available as well. For inquiries about tour plans, please contact the guide through the application and inquiry form on the official website. Yonna-Ogimi【Official Website】 2-Day/1-Night Overnight Plan – Tour Details Here, we'll provide you with the details of Ogimi Village's 2-Day/1-Night Overnight Plan tour price and duration. [Price] 2 persons・・・43,500 yen (tax included・per person) 3 persons・・・43,000 yen (tax included・per person) 4 persons・・・40,000 yen (tax included・per person) 5 persons・・・40,500 yen (tax included・per person) ※Transportation to the meeting place (airfare, rental car, bus, etc.), drinks, alcohol, etc. are charged separately. For those who choose to stay at a private residence, drinks and alcohol may be provided by the private residence. Optional experience plans require a separate application. Please refer to the bottom of this article for details regarding the experience plans. [Tour Period] February - November (※Tours are not available in December and January). [Group Sizes] 2-5 people Tents are limited to up to 5 tents, each of which accommodates 5 people (up to 25 people). ※The number of people who can stay in one house is limited, so large groups may be divided into several houses. [Meeting Place] Meeting place: Roadside Station Ogimi Yanbaru Forest Visitor Center Address: 95 Tsunami, Ogimi Village, Kunigami District, Okinawa Prefecture [Clothing] We recommend that you bring clothes and shoes that can get wet and are easy to move around in for the different activities you might take part in. [What to Bring] Drinks, towel, toiletries, sandals, overnight amenities The Best Experience Plans in Yanbaru, Starting From 2 Hours! These experience plans allow those who cannot stay overnight but want to enjoy Ogimi Village to fully enjoy Ogimi Village in a short time (2 hours to half a day), or they can be incorporated into a 2-day/1-night plan. Choose the activities that are right for you and experience Ogimi Village to the fullest! Ta Waterfall Trekking & Playing Around the Basin [Tour Outline] Enjoy trekking at Ta Waterfall, located in the upper reaches of the Heinan River where tropical and subtropical plants grow. You can also play in the waterfall basin of the mysterious 15-meter-tall waterfall. Enjoy the nature of Ogimi Village, experience the sounds and smell of the forest and the earth, and listen to the singing birds while the trees dance in the wind. You may even come across flora and fauna that can only be found in Yanbaru. ※Life jackets must be worn when playing in the waterfall basin. You can see the what trekking is like at 0:43 in the video. Photo：Ta Waterfall trekking [Price] 7,000 yen/person [Time Required] 2 hours [Group Sizes] 2-20 people [Tour Period] January, February, March, July, August, September [Relaxed Stay With a Local Guide] Ogimi Village/Kijoka Village: The Key to Longevity on an E-Bike Tour [Tour Outline] This is a cycling tour around the world's longest-lived region. A local guide will accompany you on the tour, so you will be guided to places of interest that only locals know about, which you wouldn't be able to see on a regular tour. Cyclists who aren't confident in their physical abilities will be able to use e-bikes (sports-type bicycles with electric power assistance) for the tour. Learn the secrets to longevity in Kijoka village! This plan is included in the basic plan of the 2-day/1-night tour. You can see the cycling from 0:12 in the video. Photo：E-bike tour [Price] 6,000 yen/person [Time Required] 3 hours [Group Sizes] 2-6 people [Tour Period] Year-round (closed during the year-end and New Year holidays from December 29 to January 4) Tour From a Local Guide and Shipbuilder! Shioya Bay E-Bike Tour to Discover the Traditional Event "Ungami" & Sabani Boat Cruises [Tour Outline] On the first day of the Boar after the Kyu-Bon (Old Bon) Festival (September 2, 2023), Shioya Bay will host "Ungami," a traditional event to pray for a good harvest and good health. The men of the village row a haarii boat (a traditional Okinawan dragon boat) to the goal in Shioya Bay. The women, waist-deep in the sea, cheer enthusiastically while beating drums and welcoming the competitors with songs and dances. Ungami, held in Shioya Bay, is designated as an Important Intangible Folk Cultural Property by the government of Japan, and is a festival that has continued for more than 400 years without change. Visitors can explore the spirituality and mystique of the festival by e-biking around the area where Ungami is held. You can also cruise the clear blue waters of Shioya Bay on a Sabani (a boat used in Okinawa and surrounding islands since ancient times). Photo：Ungami [Price] 9,000 yen/person (※Minimum of 2 people) [Time Required] 3 hours [Group Sizes] 2-6 People [Tour Period] Year-round (closed during the year-end and New Year holidays from December 29 to January 4) [Yanbaru World Natural Heritage Site] A Cycling Tour Around the Area Where the Traditional Event Ungami Is Held [Tour Outline] Cycling through the traditional area where Ungami is held, you can explore the spirituality and mystique of the area. Guided by local guides, the tour will take you along paths known only by the members of the community. Photo：Cycling around the village [Price] 6,000 yen/person [Time Required] 2 hours [Group Sizes] 2-20 people [Tour Period] January, February, March, July, August, September Canoe Trip Around Miyagi Island [Tour Outline] Travel around the small island in Ogimi Village's Shioya Bay by canoe. This is a rare experience with which to explore Ogimi Village, the Village of Longevity, from the open sea! A local guide will take you around, so first-timers need not worry. You can see the canoe tours at 01:10 in the video. Photo：A canoe tour [Price] 7,000 yen/person (Tax included) [Time Required] 2 hours [Group Sizes] 2-20 people [Tour Period] January, February, March, July, August, September The Best Place to See the Southern Cross! Yanbaru Forest Starry Sky Tour With a Local Guide [Tour Outline] Local guides, who are certified starry sky sommeliers, will provide commentary that will allow you to enjoy the starry sky of Yanbaru, which stretches as far as the eye can see. Binoculars and telescopes are provided, so you can enjoy a real starry sky tour without any equipment. Okinawa is the only place in Japan where the Southern Cross can be seen, and this beautiful starry sky keeps watch over the residents of Ogimi Village. ※This plan is included in the basic 2-day/1-night tour plan. You can see the starry skies of Yanbaru at 01:51 in the video. Photo：The starry sky above Yanbaru [Price] 6,000 yen/person [Time Required] 2 hours [Group Sizes] 2-6 People [Tour Period] Year-round (closed during the year-end and New Year holidays from December 29 to January 4) Guided tours to activities and sights not listed above are also available by consultation. For inquiries about tour plans, please inquire using the application and inquiry form on the official website of Yonna-Ogimi. Yonna-Ogimi【Official Website】 Popular Spots When Sightseeing in Ogimi Village, Okinawa There are a ton of places to check out when visiting Ogimi Village! From famous sightseeing spots to spots hidden gems, Ogimi Village is full of scenery that will make for lifelong memories. Kijoka Seven Waterfalls The Kijoka Seven Waterfalls is a popular power spot in the Kijoka area. It's called "Seven Waterfalls" because the water changes its course seven times before cascading down into the basin. Since it's an object of worship for the local people, there is a sacred torii gate at the entrance to the waterfall and a place of worship to view the waterfall from. The clear water is sold as the mineral water "Okinawa no Meisui, Nanataki no Mizu" (沖縄の命水　七滝の水, Life Water of Okinawa, Water of the Seven Falls). Photo：Kijoka Seven Waterfalls General Information 【Address】2234, Kinyuka, Ogimi-mura, Kunigami-gun, Okinawa, Japan 【Access】Approximately 1 hour and 10 minutes from the Kusuda IC on the Okinawa Expressway. 【Parking】Available Ishiyama Observatory The Ishiyama Observatory is located at the top of Mt. Ishiyama in Ogimi Village. The forests and villages of Yanbaru lie below, and the blue waters of the East China Sea and the Pacific Ocean can be seen beyond. A large parking lot is available as well, so feel free to drop by with a rental car or other vehicles. Photo：Ishiyama Observatory General Information 【Address】2268-1 Nejime, Ogimi-mura, Kunigami-gun, Okinawa Prefecture 【Access】Approximately 40 minutes from the Kusuda IC on the Okinawa Expressway 【Parking】30 cars Roadside Station Ogimi Yanbaru Forest Visitor Center Opened in 2020, Roadside Station Ogimi has a shop selling vegetables, meat, fish, and other specialties of Ogimi Village and northern Okinawa, as well as Restaurant Yanbaru Seaside, so you can enjoy lunch or a café and buy some souvenirs from Ogimi Village. At the 360° Dome Theater, visitors can learn about the flora and fauna of Yanbaru and life in Yanbaru through images. The top of the building is an observatory where you can view the beautiful sea. Photo：Roadside Station Ogimi Yanbaru Forest Visitor Center General Information 【Address】95 Aza-tsunami, Ogimi-mura, Kunigami-gun, Okinawa Prefecture 【Access】Approximately 40 minutes from the Kusuda IC on the Okinawa Expressway 【Parking】Oversized vehicles: 9 cars, regular vehicles: 109 cars 【Business hours】 Direct sales counter: 9:30 a.m. - 6:30 p.m. Restaurants: 11:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. weekdays, 11:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. weekends and holidays Tourist Information Center: 9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. Ogimi Village Tour Plan Summary Ogimi Village has been recognized as the "World's Longest Living Region." What is the secret behind its longevity? What is the "Ikigai" that captivates people from around the world? The Ogimi Village tours introduced in this article offer experiences that you won't find when traveling in Okinawa normally. Sightseeing at major tourist attractions in Okinawa and staying at a resort hotel is sure to make for a great trip, but, if you're looking to get to know the people of Okinawa and the culture and history of Okinawa, then a stay in Ogimi Village is the best way to do so. Learning about the culture, history, and daily life of Ogimi Village through a tour, you might start to understand why Ogimi Village is known as the "Village of Longevity." It'd be no exaggeration to say that this trip could change your outlook on life. The local staff is looking forward to welcoming you! Photo：Ogimi Village, Okinawa For more information about the Ogimi Village tour plans introduced in this article, or if you have any questions, concerns, or would like to apply, be sure to inquire via the application and inquiry form on the Yonna-Ogimi official website. 【Official Website】Yonna-Ogimi The COOL JAPAN VIDEOS social media account for the Ogimi Marugoto Tourism Association, where you can apply for Ogimi Village tour plans is as follows: For the latest information on Ogimi Village, check out these posts. 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Video introduction to Saiho-ji Temple (Koke-ji Temple) in Kyoto City, Kyoto Prefecture, Japan Photo：The garden at Saiho-ji, a moss temple in Kyoto This video, titled "[8K] Autumn Leaves at Saiho-ji (Moss Temple)" ([8K] 西芳寺（苔寺）と紅葉　Saihoji Temple (moss temple) and autumn leaves), was uploaded by "AQUA Geo Graphic." Be sure to enjoy the beauty of Saiho-ji, a kokedera (moss temple) in Kyoto, and the breathtaking scenery of the temple in autumn. Saiho-ji Temple History Photo：The garden at Saiho-ji, a moss temple in Kyoto Saiho-ji Temple, also known as a "kokedera" (moss temple), is located in Nishikyo, Kyoto, in Japan's Kansai region. The temple was built by the Japanese Buddhist priest Gyoki at the order of Emperor Shomu during the Nara Period (710-794 A.D.), and is a famous temple with more than 1,300 years of history, whose grounds are covered with more than 120 varieties of moss. Throughout its long history, and changes in religious denominations, people throughout the ages have been captivated by the temple's beauty. During the Kamakura period (1185-1333 A.D.), it was a temple of the Jodo sect of Buddhism, but was destroyed by warfare. However, in 1339, the temple was restored as a Zen Buddhist temple by the famous Buddhist monk, calligrapher, poet, and master gardener Muso Kokushi. The garden at Saiho-ji Temple has served as a model for the gardens at Kinkakuji (the Golden Pavilin) and Ginkakuji (the Silver Pavilion) in Kyoto. The Beautiful Garden of Saiho-ji Temple, a Moss Temple and World Cultural Heritage Photo：The garden at Saiho-ji, a moss temple in Kyoto The main attraction of Saiho-ji Temple is, as the name "moss temple" implies, the moss that covers the temple grounds, and the garden created by the master gardener Muso Kokushi. The upper section is a dry landscape garden, while the lower section is a strolling pond garden. The upper level, however, is currently closed to the public. Visitors often pray at the temple after reciting sutras and then stroll around the garden. The main attraction of the lower section of the garden at Saiho-ji Temple is Golden Pond (黄金池, Ogonchi), also called "Shinji-ike" (心字池, Heart-shaped Pond) because it's shaped like the Japanese character for "heart" (心). When the autumn leaves are at their best, the contrast between the temple's green moss and the autumn leaves dancing over the pond creates a beautiful scene. The teahouse Shonan-tei (湘南亭) is one of the highlights of the lower section, and is said to have been rebuilt by Sen no Shoan, the second son of Sen no Rikyu, a renowned Japanese tea master. The view of Golden Pond from the tsukimidai (月見台, moon-viewing platform) overhanging the north side of the teahouse is truly spectacular. Shonan-tei is also designated as an Important Cultural Property by the government of Japan. The upper section of the garden is not open to the public, but in Shitoan, a hall dedicated to the temple's founder, are enshrined the tablets of the founder Gyoki, Takaoka Shinno (a Japanese prince), and Muso Kokushi, as well as wooden statues of various prominent Japanese figures. On the upper level, there is a dry landscape garden. The dry landscape garden is a place where visitors can experience the history of the garden, as the masonry remains unchanged the temple was created by Muso Kokushi in 1339. The best time to see the lush moss at Saiho-ji Temple is during the rainy season, and the best time to see the autumn leaves is in November. Photo：The garden at Saiho-ji, a moss temple in Kyoto The best time to enjoy the contrast of moss and autumn leaves is from mid to late November, and the best time to see the 120-plus species of moss turn lush shades of green is typically from June to July, during Japan's rainy season. Saiho-ji Temple's Instagram page provides daily updates on the changing beauty of the garden. Be sure to check it out at @saihoji_daily before visiting! Saiho-ji Temple: Reservations, Admission Fees, Etc. Photo：The garden of Saiho-ji, a moss temple in Kyoto Saiho-ji Temple used to be open to visitors at any time, but as the number of visitors increased, so did the littering, noise, etc. As a result, the temple adopted reservation system in 1977 that allowed only a small number of visitors to visit the temple. Those who wish to visit when sightseeing in Kyoto should first decide on the day of their visit in advance and then apply for a reservation. There are two ways to make reservations to visit Saiho-ji Temple: by return postcard or online application. Application by return postcard Acceptance period: 2 months to 1 month prior to the date of application (postmarked) Number of people: Up to 2 people per couple Entrance fee: 4,000 yen or more per person Online application Application period: 2 months prior to the date of application - 23:59 the day before the date of application Number of people: Up to 2 people per couple Entrance fee: 4,000 yen or more per person The application period differs depending on the application method. The above information is current as of March 2024. Please check the official website for the latest information and apply in advance. Translated with www.DeepL.com/Translator (free version) If you're planning on making a reservation to see the autumn leaves at the temple, keep in mind that the reservation for this period is currently only available in Japanese. If using Google Chrome, we recommend using the browser's automatic translation feature by right clicking the page and click the "translate to …" button. If you're using a different browser, such as Firefox, you'll need to first download an addon from the Firefox browser addons page to do this. If you're looking to make a reservation from November and beyond, there is an English reservation page where you can sign up. Signing up also requires that you create an account, regardless of which season you choose. As the above-mentioned fees and application periods differ, be sure to check the official website and apply in advance. ※Please note that all visitors must be 13 years of age or older at the time of the visit. Winter at Saiho-ji Temple Photo：Saihoji Temple, Kyoto The garden is closed to the public during the winter to allow the garden to recuperate, but visitors can still enjoy a different view of Saiho-ji Temple during the winter months. Visitors can enter the temple through the main gate, which is normally closed to the public, and view the fusuma paintings surrounding the Amitabha Buddha, the temple's principal object of worship, in full view in the main hall. Enjoy the unique charm of this Zen temple in the dignified winter air. Summary of Saiho-ji, a Moss Temple in Kyoto Photo：The garden at Saiho-ji, a moss temple in Kyoto Kyoto's Saiho-ji Temple is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a "Historic Monument of Ancient Kyoto". Saiho-ji Temple is unique not only for its spectacular views but also for its shuin stamps. Visitors are asked to present their shuin stamp book before paying the entrance fee, and they will receive a magnificent two-page spread of shuin stamps. Access to Saiho-ji Temple is best accessed by bus rather than train. By train, the temple is a short distance from Matsuo Station. If visiting the temple by bus, it's a short 3-minute walk from the bus stop "Koke-dera/Suzumushidera" (苔寺・すず虫寺). From Kyoto Station, you can get to Saiho-ji Temple in about 45 minutes. First, take the Tokaido-Sanyo Line towards Aboshi and get off at Katsuragawa Station. From there, take the bus to the Matsuo Dairicho (松尾大利町) bus stop, and then walk to the temple. You'll also find Suzumushidera Temple, which is a popular temple said to grant visitors one wish. Saiho-ji Temple is a place where you can enjoy the unique culture and nature of Kyoto in a tranquil setting. It's an opportunity to discover both Kyoto and a new side of yourself. 【Official Website】Saiho-ji Temple 【TripAdvisor】Saiho-ji Temple

An Entire Bonito Processed and Turned Into Exquisite Dishes This video, titled "Japanese Street Food - Seared Bonito and Sushi," was uploaded by Japan Food Adventure. If you're going to visit Japan, a country surrounded by water on all sides, then not trying the sushi and other delicious cuisine would be a crime! For those looking to try delicious Japanese cuisine, we recommend trying bonito tataki, one of the most popular sushi items in Japan. This time, let's take a look at how a professional chef makes bonito tataki and nigiri sushi! The video is 22 minutes long, but it’s full of fine details and highlights. Bonito Tataki – A Popular Dish in Japan Photo：Straw roasted bonito tataki Bonito (or skipjack tuna) is a delicious fish that is low in calories and rich in nutrients. It has been a favorite menu item in Japan since ancient times. It's said that the reason why bonito tataki is called "tataki" comes from the sound of the chef tapping the cutting board as he cuts the bonito with his knife (tataku 叩く means "to tap" in Japanese). You can see freshly caught bonito at the beginning of the video, so be sure to check it out. Preparing the Finest Bonito Tataki Source :YouTube screenshot First, at 3:01, you can see the fresh bonito being processed. The traditional way to make roasted bonito tataki is to sear it with straw, as shown at 10:55 in the video. After the surface of the bonito is slowly baked with rice straw, the bonito is quickly cooled in ice water and cut into pieces, as shown at 14:18 in the video. It's also delicious when arranged with Japanese ginger, grated daikon, or thinly sliced onion. Season it with ponzu sauce, dipping sauce, or other seasonings, and you've got yourself a delicious gourmet Japanese dish. The finished bonito tataki can be viewed at 17:17 in the video. In Kochi, a place famous for its bonito, it's standard to eat bonito tataki with salt. Not only can you eat it as it is, but you can also nigiri it with sushi rice, which is shown from 18:12 in the video. Summary of Bonito Tataki Source :YouTube screenshot This video introduced the artisanal skills of a Japanese chef as he processes and prepares bonito with great skill. In Japan, there are many seafood dishes that use an abundance of fresh seafood, such as bonito tataki, grilled fish, and sashimi. If you're looking to taste the finest in Japanese cuisine and learn about Japanese food culture, definitely visit an authentic Japanese restaurant and enjoy lunch or dinner.

Video introduction of "Ubara Beach" in Katsuura City, Chiba Prefecture This video, titled "Katsuura [Ubara Beach Surfing] Aerial Drone Footage in 4K" (勝浦「 鵜原海岸サーフィン」ドローン空撮 4K Drone Japan Surf), was uploaded by "7Sky Creative – Drone Boy" (ドローン男子 7sky creative). Ubara Beach is located in Katsuura, Chiba, in Japan's Kanto Region, and is part of Minami-Boso Quasi-National Park. The water at Ubara Beach is so clear that it has been called "the Okinawa of Kanto." With its rias coastline, Ubara Beach is a sightseeing spot where visitors can enjoy not only swimming in shallow waters, but also hiking courses and other outdoor activities. Be sure to check out the video showing aerial footage of Ubara Beach and surfing, taken via drone. Ubara Beach – A Slice of Okinawa in Chiba! Photo：Ubara Beach, Chiba Prefecture Ubara Beach in Katsuura, Chiba, is characterized by its clear waters and beautiful, pristine sandy beaches, and has been selected as one of the Top 100 Beaches in Japan. In summer, a beach is opened in the center of the sandy beach facing Ubara Bay, attracting many people. In addition to swimming and playing on the beach, the area is also known for marine activities, such as snorkeling and surfing. The Ubara Coast, which includes the Ubara Beach, is also known as a fishing spot, where you can catch fish, such as Japanese whiting, Japanese halibut, and Japanese black porgy. The beach is well equipped with beach houses, changing rooms, toilets, and other facilities, and is a popular destination for families in the summer. Please note that jellyfish are present during the Obon season (Aug. 13 - Aug. 15), so please be careful when swimming in the sea. The White Torii Gate of Ubara Beach – The Perfect Photo Spot Photo：The white torii gate at Ubara Beach, Chiba Prefecture The white torii gate that stands on the Ubara Beach belongs to Yasaka Shrine, and is a tourist attraction that attracts many visitors to the area. The reason for its popularity is that, unlike the vermillion torii gates at most shrines, this torii gate is pure white. The beautiful contrast between the blue seas and skies and the white torii gate attracts many instagrammers and photographers. Also on the Ubara Coast, the "Ubara Daimyo Gyoretsu" is held every year on the fourth Saturday in July. This is a spectacular procession of daimyo that is celebrated along with "Ohamaori," a festival in which a portable shrine leaving Yasaka Shrine makes its way to the white torii gate. The procession parades through the town of Ubara and along Ubara beach for several hours with loud chanting. You can see the white tower in the video. [Video] 2:56 - The White Torii Gate of Yasaka Shrine Other Popular Beaches in Katsuura, Chiba Photo：Moriya Beach, Chiba Prefecture In addition to Ubara Beach, there are other attractive beaches in Katsuura as well. Below are two such beaches. [Moriya Beach] Moriya Beach, like Ubara Beach, is located in Minami-Boso National Park, with beautiful scenery, including reefs and sandy beaches, and has also been selected as one of the Top 100 Beaches in Japan by the Ministry of the Environment. Watashima Island is a small island located 170 meters offshore, and is a distinctive feature of the beach. [Okitsu Beach] This beach faces Okitsu Port, and is known for its calm waves that allow for swimming. It has been selected as one of the "100 Best Beaches for Swimming" by the Ministry of the Environment, and is a popular beach for families. Summary of Ubara Beach, Chiba If you still haven't seen the video showing Ubara Beach be sure to check it out! It's a popular tourist spot for families as well as anglers, surfers, and people who enjoy marine sports. If you're planning on visiting, be sure to check the weather and wave reports in advance so you can enjoy swimming, surfing, and other marine sports to the fullest. Ubara Beach is just a 5-minute walk from Ubara Station via the JR Sotobo Line, and has a parking lot that can accommodate 300 cars. If you're planning to stay overnight during your sightseeing trip to Katsuura, Chiba, you can stay at a guest house or hotel near Ubara Beach, or if you want to enjoy some barbecue, you can use an auto-camping site. Bottle rockets are prohibited on the beach, but hand-held fireworks are allowed, so feel free to bring your own fireworks if you're staying overnight. Make some summer memories at Ubara Beach this summer in Chiba! 【TripAdvisor】Ubara Beach https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g1021249-d2241695-Reviews-Ubara_Beach-Katsuura_Chiba_Prefecture_Kanto.html

Nighttime Cherry Blossom Viewing at Ueno Park, Hirosaki Park, and Takada Park in 2026 This video, titled "4K Japan's Top 3 Nighttime Cherry Blossom Spots｜Ueno Park｜Hirosaki Park｜Takada Park｜Famous Nighttime Cherry Blossom Locations｜Sakura｜Hanami｜Cherry Blossom Evening" (4K 日本三大夜桜 上野公園 弘前公園 高田公園 Top３ Night cherry Blossom 夜桜の名所 sakura hanami 花見 Cherry blossom evening), was uploaded by "Discover Nippon." The video features plenty of beautiful 4K images showing the fantastic scenery of Ueno Park, Hirosaki Park, and Takada Park, which are known as the Top 3 Nighttime Cherry Blossom Spots in Japan. This article provides sightseeing information on the 2026 cherry blossom events at Ueno Park, Hirosaki Park, and Takada Park. First, be sure to check out the video to enjoy the fantastic views of the beautiful cherry blossoms in full bloom. After seeing this you'll definitely want to visit these spots in person! When Is the Best Time to See Cherry Blossoms at Ueno Park in 2026? Highlights and Festival Dates Photo：Cherry blossoms at night in Ueno Park, Taito, Tokyo Ueno Park, introduced at 0:19 in the video, is located in Taito, Tokyo, and is the first urban park in Japan, making it a place with a long history. Officially named "Ueno Onshi Park," Ueno Park has been selected as one of the "Top 100 Historical Parks in Japan" and is also home to Ueno Zoo, museums, art galleries, and cafes such as Starbucks. The park has also been selected as one of "Japan's Top 100 Cherry Blossom Spots" and attracts a total of approximately 4 million visitors during the cherry blossom viewing season when all sorts of vendors and food stalls line its paths. In Ueno Park, there are approximately 800 cherry trees of 50 species, and visitors can enjoy cherry blossom viewing for around two full months. The most popular cherry blossom viewing spots are Sakura-dori (さくら通り), Shinobazu Pond (不忍池), and Kiyomizu Kannon-do Temple, an Important Cultural Property. The 77th Ueno Cherry Blossom Festival (うえの桜まつり) will be held from March 14 to April 5, 2026. During the festival, approximately 800 "bonbori" (Japanese paper lamps) will be lit to create a fantastic illuminated scene. The bonbori light-up will run from March 20 (Fri, public holiday) to April 19 (Sun), 2026, from sunset until around 8:00 p.m. Ueno Park is just a two-minute walk from Ueno Station on all lines, and a one-minute walk from Keisei Ueno Station off the Keisei Main Line. When Is the Best Time to See Cherry Blossoms at Hirosaki Park in 2026? Special Highlights You Won't Want to Miss Photo：Cherry blossoms at night at Hirosaki Park, Hirosaki, Aomori Hirosaki Park, located in Hirosaki, Aomori, is introduced at 3:02 in the video. The highlights of Hirosaki Park include Hirosaki Castle's keep and three turrets, which have been designated as Important Cultural Properties by the Japanese government. Hirosaki Park is home to approximately 2,600 cherry trees of 52 varieties that bloom each year. The most famous is the large weeping cherry tree (Shidarezakura), which was planted in 1914. The 2026 Hirosaki Cherry Blossom Festival (弘前さくらまつり), where you can enjoy nighttime cherry blossoms, will be held from April 17 (Fri) to May 5 (Tue, public holiday), 2026 — a total of 19 days. In response to the recent trend of earlier blooming, the festival will begin earlier than usual this year (dates are subject to change depending on blooming conditions). Special nighttime illumination of the cherry blossoms will take place every evening throughout the festival, and various events are also planned, including boat tours on Hirosaki Park's middle moat. Please note that 2026 is a particularly significant year for Hirosaki Castle. As part of ongoing stone wall repair work, the castle keep is scheduled to be moved back to its original foundation from July 2026 — its first relocation in approximately seven years. As a result, public access to the interior of the keep was suspended on November 23, 2025, and visitors will not be able to enter the keep during the 2026 cherry blossom festival. That said, the stunning springtime view of cherry blossoms, the castle keep, and the Tsugaru Fuji (Mt. Iwakisan) remains as breathtaking as ever. There is also a reservation-only "cherry blossom viewing party," which is popular because it allows visitors to enjoy Tsugaru's local cuisine while viewing the cherry blossoms, with no need to bring anything along. It is a 20-minute walk from JR Hirosaki Station, and there is a parking lot nearby. When Is the 2026 Kanoukai Held at Takada Park? Nighttime Cherry Blossoms and the Three-Story Turret Photo：Cherry blossoms at night at Takada Castle Site Park, Joetsu, Niigata At 5:19 in the video, Takada Park is introduced. As of April 1, 2020, the name of this park was changed to "Takada Castle Site Park" (高田城址公園). Takada Castle Site Park (Takada Park) in Joetsu, Niigata, is a large approximately 50-hectare park that includes the restored three-story turret of Takada Castle, the Municipal Museum (renovated into a Museum of History), and sports facilities. You can also check out live cameras of Takada Castle Site Park on the "Gurutto Shinetsu" (ぐるっと信越, ※Japanese only) website. In addition to cherry blossoms, the park is also famous for its beautiful lotus flowers. Takada Castle Site Park (Takada Park) is home to approximately 4,000 Somei Yoshino (Yoshino cherry) trees illuminated by bonbori lanterns, creating a breathtaking nighttime spectacle. The 101st Takada Castle Site Park Kanoukai (Cherry Blossom Viewing Festival) will be held from April 3 (Fri) to April 19 (Sun), 2026. Nighttime illumination will also take place during the event (6:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m., extended until 10:00 p.m. during peak bloom). Various events are also planned, including stage performances, a local product fair, and a photo contest. (Please check the official website for details.) To get to Takada Park, it is a 15-minute walk from Takada Station on the Echigo Tokimeki Railway, or approximately a 10-minute drive from Joetsu-Takada IC on the Joshinetsu Expressway. A parking lot is available. Japan's Top 3 Nighttime Cherry Blossom Spots in 2026: Ueno Park, Hirosaki Park & Takada Park This video introduces the Top 3 Nighttime Cherry Blossom Spots of Japan in stunning detail. Enjoy the spectacular nighttime views of cherry blossoms lit up and glowing in beautiful shades of pink. Each of the three spots has its own unique charm — be sure to visit during the 2026 cherry blossom season! 【Official Website】Ueno Park/Ueno Onshi Park Official Website - Tokyo Metropolitan Government, Bureau of Construction https://www.kensetsu.metro.tokyo.lg.jp/jimusho/toubuk/ueno/en_index.html 【Official Website】Hirosaki Park https://www.hirosakipark.jp/en/

Koto-ku, Tokyo "Life-size Unicorn Gundam Standing Statue" Video Introduction This video "THE LIFE-SIZED UNICORN GUNDAM STATUE Rollout" which was created by "darwinfish105" is an introductory video which shows how the life-sized Unicorn Gundam statue was built in time-lapse. In 2017, a life-sized Unicorn Gundam statue was built in Odaiba's DiverCity Tokyo Plaza (ダイバーシティ東京プラザ) in Tokyo and immediately made big news not only in Japan but all over the world. Exactly what is this statue that is gaining so much attention overseas? How was it made? What is the life-sized Unicorn Gundam statue? Source :YouTube screenshot The life-sized Unicorn Gundam statue which is introduced in the video was made as part of the "Tokyo Gundam Project". The first generation Gundam statue which was built in 2009 in Shiokaze Park's (潮風公園, shiokazekouen) Taiyo no Hiroba (太陽の広場) was later moved in 2010 to the Gunpla (Gundam plastic model) factory in Shizuoka (静岡市, shizuokashi). In April 2012, approximately 3 years since the original Gundam statue was brought to Shizuoka, it was moved back to Odaiba's DiverCity Tokyo Plaza, only to then be destroyed in 2017 to make way for the new Unicorn Gundam statue that is on display today. Unicorn Gundam is the white mobile suit controlled by the main character Banagher Links (バナージ・リンクス) of the popular series "Mobile Suit Gundam Unicorn" (機動戦士ガンダム UC). You can see the life-sized Unicorn Gundam statue in DiverCity's Festival Hiroba (フェスティバル広場) which is located in Odaiba, Koto ward (江東区, koutouku), Tokyo. The statue is an impressive 20m tall and although the building costs have yet to be announced, it is thought to have cost hundreds of millions of yen. You can take a look at how the statue was built in time-lapse, starting from 1:37 in the video where the statue's arms are yet to be attached. Let's go see the life-sized Unicornn Gundam statue! Source :YouTube screenshot We highly recommend you visit Odaiba to take a look at this statue from the Mobile Suit Gundam Unicorn series which is popular both in and out of Japan! In Odaiba, an event is held during the day where you can see the Unicorn Gundam statue change from Unicorn Mode to Destroy Mode. In the evening, the statue is lit up which you can take a look at in the video from 4:55. Don’t forget to take lots of pictures of the Unicorn Gundam statue to share with your friends on Instagram! You can order a set menu, which comes with a free souvenir, from the GUNDAM Café situated near the statue. Also, don't miss out on the plastic models or original manga drawing display corner! The life-sized Unicorn Gundam introductory video summary Source :YouTube screenshot Many events such as fireworks displays, are often held in Odaiba, where the life-sized Unicorn Gundam statue is built. Make sure to check out event times and venues before setting off on your trip to the popular sightseeing spot Odaiba! If watching the video has sparked an interest in Gundam, why not also take a trip to GUNDAM FACTORY YOKOHAMA (ガンダムファクトリー横浜) where, from December 2020, you will be able to see an 18m tall Gundam statue? 【TripAdvisor】Unicorn Gundam statue https://www.tripadvisor.com/ShowUserReviews-g1066449-d13428361-r645428344-Unicorn_Gundam_Statue-Koto_Tokyo_Tokyo_Prefecture_Kanto.html

The Televised Address of Emperor Akihito The video this time is the televised address that was made by Emperor Akihito. He released the video to the Japanese citizens on August 8th, 2016. He expressed his thoughts, attracting a lot of attention not only in Japan, but also abroad as well. What Was the Televised Address About? Source :YouTube screenshot In the video, Emperor Akihito , the 125th emperor of Japan, expressed his desire to retire from his official duties. To summarize his feelings, he was prompted to consider abdicating before his death due to the fact fact that his age (82 at the time) was making it difficult for him to serve the nation as the symbolic emperor. Japan's Emperor System and Abdication Photo：General visit to the Imperial Palace Emperor Akihito's declaration had a great deal to do with Japan's Imperial House System and Law. Currently, the abdication of the throne is only carried out when the emperor at the time passes away. In order to make abdication possible, the Imperial House Law needs to be amended. As there had never been such a case in modern times, the abdication of the Emperor during his lifetime and next era name were carefully chosen. Subsequently, after extensive discussion, the abdication of the Emperor was approved by amending the laws of the Japanese Constitution to allow him to abdicate during his lifetime. In June 2017, the Special Imperial Household Law on the Abdication of the Emperor and Other Matters was promulgated and came into effect on April 30, 2019. Accordingly, on April 1, 2019, Chief Cabinet Secretary Yoshihide Suga announced the new era name, "Reiwa." The abdication of the throne took place on April 30, and on May 1, Crown Prince Naruhito ascended the throne as the new Emperor of Japan. Summary of former Emperor Akihito's Public Address Photo：Japanese era The video message from Former Emperor Akihito, introduced here, expresses his feelings regarding his reasons for abdication. With His Majesty's decision to abdicate, the succession to the throne and the transition from "Heisei" to "Reiwa" proceeded smoothly in a harmonious festive atmosphere.

広島県のおすすめ観光地・尾道市紹介動画について こちらの動画は「尾道市」が公開した「尾道市公式　Onomichi - Little Lovely Things -「Yama side」」です。 こちらの記事では広島の観光スポットである尾道市の景色を楽しめる名所や、周辺のイベント情報などを動画と共に紹介します。 広島県尾道市の景勝地 日本の観光地である広島県尾道市には、美しい景観を見られるスポットが盛りだくさん。 イチオシは千光寺公園の展望台です。 この展望台は千光寺公園の頂上にあり、尾道市を一望できる、雄大な景色が広がっています。桜が開花する春はとくに景色が綺麗なのでおすすめ。 「日本の桜名所100選」にも選ばれており、山や海、桜を鑑賞できる展望台の景色は、とても美しいのです。 他にも、千光寺ロープウェイや恋人の広場など絶景を楽しめるスポットが多くあります。 広島県尾道市の人気のイベント 広島の観光地である尾道市には、さまざまなイベントが開催されています。 人気なのは「おのみち住吉花火まつり」です。 広島を代表するとても人気の花火大会で、県外からも多くの人が訪れます。 「尾道水道が紡いだ中世からの箱庭的都市」として日本遺産に登録された街並みと一緒に、花火を楽しむことができます。 「おのみち住吉花火まつり」以外には、尾道みなと祭や尾道祗園祭、因島水軍まつり、尾道灯りまつりなどがおすすめ。 広島県尾道市紹介まとめ さまざまな観光スポットがある広島の尾道市。 絶景スポット、歴史ある寺院、にぎやかなイベントなど、広島県尾道市には魅力がいっぱい！ 是非、広島県尾道市へ実際に足を運んでみてはいかがですか？

Fairlady Z" video produced by a store specializing in old cars in Okazaki, Aichi Prefecture, Japan. "RockyAuto｜Fairlady Z S30Z 240ZG RB Engine｜The Joy of Driving a Classic Car with an RB Engine｜Convenient and High-Speed, A Special Tailormade Car" (ロッキーオート　フェアレディーZ　S30Z 240ZG RBエンジン搭載の旧車で走る楽しさを　快適・快速オーナー様だけの特別な1台を), created by "RockyAuto," is a video introducing the Fairlady Z, made by the classic car shop, "RockyAuto." The first generation S30 series Fair Lady Z, revived in the modern era with an RB engine and the light body of a classic car, makes for an awesome drive. Its cool exterior is also impressive, making this video a must-see for car lovers. In this article, we'll take a closer look at the popular Fair Lady Z. The Fairlady Z - All the Charms of a Classic Source :YouTube screenshot The Fairlady Z, sold by classic car shop RockyAuto, is a practical car equipped with an RB engine, air conditioning, and power steering, and can be driven with everyday use in mind. By refurbishing a classic car with newer features, the Fairlady Z has been reborn to provide a safe and convenient driving experience. You can see an orange Fairlady Z being taken for a spin at 4:26 in the video. Rocky Auto carries Fairlady Z models, such as the S30Z, 240ZG, Skyline GT-R, and the Toyota 2000GT. Although made to order, it also carries the Kenmeri GT-R and Hakosuka, the 8th generation model of the Nissan Skyline. The shop is popular among car lovers, including lovers of classic cars, historic cars, and even vintage cars. The name "Fairlady" was inherited from the Datsun Fairlady and named after the musical "My Fair Lady." The exports are known as 'DATSUN' and 'NISSAN.' Source :YouTube screenshot The Fair Lady Z's RB engine has the performance of an updated version of the classic, making it usable as an everyday vehicle. A characteristic of the engine is that it does not overheat and does not require much maintenance, something uncommon in classic cars. There are various types of RB engines, including the RB26DETT and RB26 Twin Turbo. You can see the engine of the Fairlady Z at 0:50 in the video, and even hear the beautiful sound it makes when giving it gas and when idling. What Are Classic Cars? Source :YouTube screenshot Classics refer to cars and motorcycles manufactured more than a few decades ago. Older models are called classic cars, while cars manufactured between 1919 and 1930 are sometimes classified as vintage cars. Classic car enthusiasts often buy older cars that have been serviced from specialty shops, or acquire them through restoration. Old cars from the 1960's and 1970's were often owned by the younger generation of that time, but they were difficult to maintain were often given away. The rare cars that remain are now sold at premium prices. Summary of the Fairlady Z Source :YouTube screenshot RockyAuto's Fairlady Z is a fast and reliable vehicle that still has that classic engine purr. The video showcases the beautiful vehicle in its newly restored glory. Rocky Auto classic can be customized with engines and turbos to your liking, allowing you to create your dream car. If you’re interested, be sure to check out the video!

The Basics of Camp Cooking in Japan: Rice Rice, the staple food of the Japanese people, is also popular when camping. In this article, we'll introduce a video how to cook rice using a mess tin. Learn about mistakes advanced campers have already made so you can avoid making them yourself! Video Introduction This video, titled "[Mess Tins] Tips to Avoid Mistakes When Cooking Rice" (【メスティン】メスティン自動炊飯で失敗しないポイントとは), was uploaded by "Second Lieutenant Nya [Demoted to Rave Reviews]" (ニャア少尉【絶賛降格中】). The video introduces how to cook rice without fail using a mess tin. It's a must-see for outdoor and camping beginners in Japan, as well as for those who have never successfully cooked rice with a mess tin. Check it out! Mess Tins - A Popular Piece of Camping Dishware Photo：Camping gear A mess tin is a piece of cookware used during camping and backpacking. Shaped like a lunch box with a handle, they're made of aluminum for high heat conduction and can be heated with a single burner. They're also compact and easy to store. They can be used for smoking foods, pasta, and even arranged recipes using cooked rice and bread. They're a popular cooking utensil for outdoor enthusiasts with a variety of cooking methods, such as simmering, steaming, baking, etc. The first time you use a mess tin, it's recommended that you file and deburr it, as they can have rough spots on them. Some campers also recommend seasoning to prevent burning and other problems. 6 Tips for Cooking With a Mess Tin Photo：Rice soaked in water The video explains 6 tips to avoid mistakes when using a mess tin for outdoor cooking and camping. Let's take a look! ・Allow Water to Permeate the Rice Thoroughly After washing your rice, you'll want to soak the rice in water for at least 30 minutes during summer and 1 to 2 hours in winter in order to allow the water to penetrate the rice. [Video] 0:48 - Preparing the rice ・Solid Fuel (25g) Next is the solid fuel. Use 25g of solid fuel so that the fire won't go out in the middle of cooking. [Video] 1:24 - Solid fuel ・Next is the water. Be careful with the amount of water so that your rice isn't hard when you're finished cooking. In the video, water is added until the middle of the rivet of the mess tin for 1 cup of rice, but note that the height differs by manufacturer. [Video] 1:54 - Adding water ・Use a Wind Screen Fourth, use a windbreak to keep the heat and temperature consistent. The wind outside can make it difficult for the fire to reach the mess tin, resulting in uneven cooking, so be sure to use a wind screen. [Video] 2:24 - Wind screen ・Place a Weight on Top of the Mess Tin Lid The lid may come off when the pressure inside the mess tin rises. It's recommended that you put a weight on the lid to prevent it from coming off. [Video] 2:41 - Weights ▪ Steaming Remove from heat once steam starts to spill out or there's any bubbling sounds. To prevent the temperature from dropping too low, place the rice in a temperature retaining bag and let it steam for 10 minutes to make it fluffy and delicious. [Video] 3:52 - Steaming Warming Up Canned Goods With a Mess Tin! Source :YouTube screenshot The video shows how you can place a weight on top of the lid to prevent it from opening while the rice is cooking. In the video, canned food that is eaten with rice was placed on top of the lid instead of a weight. When the rice is done cooking, the canned food is also warmed up, so you can kill two birds with one stone! Summary of Mess Tins for the Outdoors & Camping In this article, we introduced a video of how to cook with a mess tin. A mess tin is a cooker that is handy for outdoor cooking, such as when camping, because it allows for easy outdoor cooking due to its versatility. Whether you're cooking with a mess tin for the first time or have used a mess tin before but experienced some failures, be sure to refer to this video to make some delicious rice!

Miyakojima '17END': Video Introduction This video, titled "[8K 60P] 17END - A Beautiful Beach on Miyakojima, Okinawa, Japan" ([8K60P] 17END 宮古島の絶景ビーチ Beautiful Beach Miyako,Okinawa,Japan), was uploaded by "Saha Entertainment TV." Miyakojima (Miyako Island), the pride of Okinawa, has many beautiful beaches. Among them, Yonaha Beach (Yonaha Maehama Beach) is famous as one of the most beautiful beaches on the island. However, these actually a beach that is even more beautiful than Yonaha Beach... That is '17END.' The name 17END comes from the fact that the runway is angled at 170 degrees from north (0 degrees), and the runway identification number is 17. The 'END' portion comes from the aviation term "Runway End" where the beach is located. 17END is a fantastic beach that can be seen only when certain conditions are met. Before going any further though, be sure to check out the beauty of the beach in this 8K video. 17END - A Phantom Beach With White Sand and Clear Blue Waters! Photo：17END, a phantom beach Next, we'll go over some of the charms of 17END, a fantastic beach that can only be seen when the weather and tides are in harmony. [17END Attraction #1] White Sandy Beaches and Clear Blue Waters The beautiful white sand and the clear turquoise blue sea make this beach one of the most beautiful spots on Miyakojima. [17END Attraction #2] Awesome Airplanes Overhead! The island is located directly behind Shimojishima Airport, so if you time it right, you can watch airplanes take off and land up close. It is also the only place in Japan where visitors can watch touch-and-go landing drills. [17END Attraction #3] Breathtaking Sunsets Although famous for its white sandy beaches and clear blue waters, 17END is also known for its beautiful sunsets, with the sky and sea turning to vibrant shades of orange. 17END is a photogenic spot, as it offers an unobstructed view of the ocean. Things to Do at 17END Photo：People enjoying the beach at 17END At 17END you can do more than just walk along the beach and admire the spectacular views. Swimming is also allowed in the clear blue waters. If you make reservations at one of the marine shops nearby, you can even try SUP (Stand-up Paddleboarding) and have a blast while enjoying the water. In addition, you can take a jet ski tour to a mysterious cave at 17END while enjoying the beautiful beach to your heart's content. When the weather is nice, we also recommend renting a bicycle to cross Irabu Ohashi Bridge and exploring the area from Irabu Island to Shimoji Island. Location and Access Information for 17END, Miyakojima Photo：Shimojishima Airport, Miyakojima, Okinawa If you're considering visiting 17END, please keep in mind that you have to visit at low tide. At low tide, the pure white beach is revealed, but at high tide, the beach is submerged, and cannot be seen. Located on Shimoji Island, a remote island on Miyakojima, access is a 10-minute drive from Shimojishima Airport. Vehicles are not allowed on the beach, so please use a nearby parking lot. There are no lifeguards on duty at the beach either, and because there are places where rip currents occur, be sure to check dangerous places in advance and avoid them during your visit. Be sure to take care of your belongings as well. Summary of 17END If you still haven't watched the video yet, we definitely recommend checking it out as you can see hear the sound of the wind and waves while viewing the beautiful waters of the beach. 17END is a fantastic beach located on Shimoji Island, a remote island of Miyakojima, which only appears at low tide. By carefully monitoring the weather conditions and tides, you'll have a higher chance of seeing this fantastic beach. It's a spectacular spot that Miyakojima takes pride in, and you should definitely see it of you have the chance. For lodging, there are hotels available on Shimoji Island as well as on the neighboring Irabu Island. Some people say that of all the beaches on Miyako Island, 17END is by far the most beautiful. Come and see the sandy white beaches and clear blue waters with your own eyes! The amazing scenery will surely make for a memorable part of any trip to Okinawa. 【Official Website】Shimoji Island | Miyakojima | Official Okinawa Travel Guide https://visitokinawajapan.com/destinations/miyako-islands/shimoji-island/ 【TripAdvisor】Shimoji Island https://www.tripadvisor.com/ShowUserReviews-g680765-d1373557-r426945332-Shimojishima_Island-Miyakojima_Okinawa_Prefecture.html

Autumn Foliage at Dazaifu Tenmangu Shrine and KamadoShrine: Video introduction Photo：Dazaifu Tenmangu Shrine, Fukuoka Prefecture This video, titled "Dazaifu Tenmangu Shrine, Mt. Hozan｜Hiking and Autumn Leaves at Kamado Shrine SONY a6500" (太宰府天満宮　Dazaifu tenmangu宝満山　登山　紅葉の竈門神社(かまど) SONY a6500), was uploaded by "Ishii Valley" (石井渓谷). The 4.5-minute video shows the beautiful autumn foliage found at Dazaifu Tenmangu Shrine and Kamado Shrine. The video provides a realistic feeling as if you were actually visiting Dazaifu Tenmangu Shrine and Kamado Shrine. Be sure to check out the beautiful autumn leaves in the video, especially around the 2-minute mark! How to Get To Homanzan Kamado Shrine From Dazaifu Tenmangu Shrine Photo：Kamado Shrine, Fukuoka Prefecture Dazaifu, located in Fukuoka Prefecture, in Japan's Kyushu region, is widely known for Dazaifu Tenmangu Shrine. However, if you visit in the fall, there's another spot that we highly recommend you visit in conjunction with Dazaifu Tenmangu Shrine. That is, Kamado Shrine. Dazaifu Tenmangu Shrine and Kamado Shrine are located very close to one another, so it's possible to visit both places in the same day. If you're going from Dazaifu Tenmangu Shrine, a 5-minute walk from Dazaifu Station, to Kamado Shrine, it will take you about 30 minutes on foot. If you use public transportation, the Mahoroba bus (まほろば号) is a convenient way to get to the shrine. Take the bus bound for Uchiyama (内山) from the bus stop Miyamae (宮前) (in front of the Sanjo 7-Eleven), and you will arrive at the last stop, Uchiyama (in front of the shrine), in about 7 minutes. Since there are not many buses, you may want to check the bus schedule in advance before visiting Dazaifu Tenmangu Shrine. On the approach to Dazaifu Tenmangu Shrine, you'll find a variety of snacks, such as umegae mochi, a specialty of Fukuoka, as well as Japanese sweets made from strawberries, and Mont Blanc. There is also a wide variety of restaurants in the area, and other stalls selling things like steamed buns. If you have time to spare, consider taking a break for lunch or a quick snack. Kamado Shrine and the Anime Demon Slayer + Popular Charms Photo：Mt. Homan, Fukuoka Prefecture Homanzan Kamado Shrine has seen an increase in the number of visitors to the shrine, due to the enormous popularity of Demon Slayer (Kimetsu no Yaiba). However, not many people know much about Kamado Shrine itself. Kamado Shrine is located at the foot of Mt. Homan, known as a sacred mountain of Dazaifu. Mt. Homan is the located in the northeast, an unlucky direction, and rituals were held here to protect Dazaifu and the nation, leading to the construction of the Shinto shrine on the site. The main deity is Tamayori-hime no Mikoto. This deity is known as a god of marriage because of her divine power to attract souls ("tama," in Japanese). In addition, the shrine is also blessed with the power to ward off bad luck and evil spirits. It's said that the shrine's popularity was sparked by the fact that the surname of Tanjiro Kamado, the main character of Demon Slayer, is the same as that of the Kamado Shrine. The shrine is said to have been named after Mt. Homan, the mountain on which it stands, because of its shape, which resembles a kamado (a type of traditional Japanese stove). As mentioned above, the fact that the shrine was built to ward off demons is also a point of interest to fans of Demon Slayer. One of the most popular spots at the shrine is the amulet office. The building was designed based on the concept of "a building that will continue to be loved even 100 years from now," with pink and white as its base color, creating a modern atmosphere. When the shrine office was rebuilt, world-renowned interior designer Masamichi Katayama participated in the project, and the benches and chairs on the observation terrace were designed by Jasper Morrison. Be sure to take a look at the stylish shrine office, as it's not something you'd expect to find at a Shinto shrine. One of the most popular spots at the shrine is the amulet office. The building was designed based on the concept of "a building that will continue to be loved even 100 years from now," with pink and white as its base color, creating a modern atmosphere. When the shrine office was rebuilt, world-renowned interior designer Masamichi Katayama participated in the project, and the benches and chairs on the observation terrace were designed by Jasper Morrison. Be sure to take a look at the stylish shrine office, as it's not something you'd expect to find at a Shinto shrine. As for good luck charms, or "omamori" (お守り) in Japanese, the most popular is the ichigo omamori (いちごお守り, strawberry charm). In the old days, the four-character idiom "Ichi-go ichi-e" (一期一会), a Japanese phrase used to describe once-in-a-lifetime encounters, was used to describe a marriage or an important match, and this amulet is a prayer for such precious encounters to come true. There are many other cute charms and amulets sold at the shrine besides the strawberry charm, so consider purchasing one to commemorate your visit to the shrine. Hiking Mt. Homan, a Popular Sacred Mountain in Dazaifu, Fukuoka Photo：A hiking trail on Mt. Homan, Fukuoka Prefecture Mt. Homan, located in Dazaifu City, is a sacred mountain that has been praised since ancient times as a mountain where the gods dwell. It's a very popular mountain among hikers, many of whom visit the mountain to climb it. There are several trails for hiking Mt. Homan, but the most popular is the standard trail starting from Kamado Shrine. After passing through the Ichino-torii (first shrine gate), you'll find a full-fledged trail with stone steps. The ascent will take about 2 hours, and the descent will be a little quicker, at around 1.5 hours. Although the trails on Mt. Homan are well maintained, there are some steep points, such as "Hyakudan Ganki" (100段ガンキ), a series of 100 steep steps. Please make sure you are fully prepared for the challenge when hiking up the mountain. A breathtaking panoramic view awaits you after you reach the summit. Enjoy the cherry blossoms in spring, autumn leaves in fall, and seasonal flowers along the trail as you climb the mountain. You can also pay a visit to the Jogu (the highest point of the shrine) of Kamado Shrine, which is located at the top. The Autumn Festival at Kamado Shrine and the Best Time to See the Autumn Leaves Photo：Autumn leaves at Kamado Shrine, Fukuoka Prefecture In autumn, Kamado Shrine is enveloped in a vibrant palette of colorful. The best time to view the autumn leaves at Kamado Shrine is usually from early November to early December, with the Autumn Leaves Festival being held at the end of November. The Autumn Leaves Festival usually attracts many visitors, with stalls selling freshly picked vegetables and refreshments, flea markets selling a variety of goods, and even stalls seasonal spirits. The best time to see the autumn leaves at the shrine is at night. The contrast between the blue skies, green trees, and the bright red autumn leaves is different from the atmosphere of the shrine at night, when the autumn leaves are illuminated. Be sure to enjoy the night view from the observatory. Things to Do Near Kamado Shrine Photo：Kyushu National Museum. Fukuoka Prefecture Despite Dazaifu and Kamado Shrine being located on the outskirts of Fukuoka City, there are a number of attractions to check out in the area. Kyushu National Museum Kyushu National Museum features an Entrance Hall with a variety of facilities, and also hosts special displays, concerts, and events. There is also a Special Exhibition Hall that hosts a number of special exhibitions, a Cultural Exchange Exhibition Hall featuring regularly rotation exhibits, and Interactive Exhibition Gallery where guests of all ages can learn about Japan and countries that Japan has interacted with throughout history. Don't forget to check out the Museum Shop for souvenirs! Hours: 9:30 am - 5: 00 pm (last entry 4:30 pm). 9:30 am - 8:00 pm (last entry 7:30 pm) on Fridays and Saturdays during special exhibitions. Closed: Mondays and public holidays. If Monday is a public holiday, the museum will open and the following day it will be closed. Admission Fee: Adults: 700 yen, University Students: 350 yen, High school students and younger: Free, Seniors (70+): Free, Persons with disabilities: Free Dazaifu Amusement Park For those traveling with kids, the Dazaifu Amusement Park is a great place to relax and have fun with a family. The park roller coasters, water coasters, merri-go-rounds, petting zoos, and all sorts of activities that families can enjoy together. Additionally, there are food areas where you can grab lunch, shops for buying gifts, and even nursing facilities that can be used freely, and stroller rentals available. Hours: (Weekdays) 10:30 am - 4:30 pm, (Weekends & Holidays) 10:00 am - 5:00 pm. Closed: No regular closures. Please check the official website for more information. Admission Fee: Admission only - Adults (Middle school students and older): 600 yen, Seniors (65+): 500 yen, Children (Ages 3 to Elementary school students): 400 yen. Free ride pass - Adults (Middle school students and older): 2,900 yen, Seniors (65+): 2,800 yen, Children (Ages 3 to Elementary school students): 2,700 yen. Nearby Onsen Also located nearby are a number of onsen (hot spring) facilities. If you're looking to relax after a day of traveling or just looking to enjoy a nice warm bath, be sure to look up some hot springs in the area when visiting. Summary of Kamado Shrine, Mt. Homan, Fukuoka Prefecture Photo：Autumn foliage illumination at Kamado Shrine, Fukuoka Prefecture, Japan Kamado Shrine is located at the foot of Mt. Homan. In autumn, when the approximately 300 maple trees change color, you can see a different view of the shrine than in other seasons. Kamado Shrine is enshrined at the foot of Mt. Homan, which is revered as a mountain where the gods dwell, and we recommend that you visit the shrine not only in autumn but also in other seasons, as it's a place rich in nature. Don't forget to stop by when visiting Dazaifu Tenmangu Shrine. Also, if you're planning to climb Mt. Homan, please make sure you are fully prepared with appropriate footwear and clothing, and enjoy the spectacular view from the top. The mountain is also dotted with historical sites, such as the Gohaku Rakan (500 arhats), so be sure to keep an eye out for them as you make you way up and down the mountain. 【TripAdvisor】Kamado Shrine

大分県宇佐市の魅力紹介動画の見どころ この記事では「宇佐市インターネット作成局」が公開した動画「宇佐市２０１６観光プロモーション動画」を紹介します。 今回紹介するのは大分県宇佐市。九州の中でも、昔ながらの日本の街並みが残り、ゆったり日本を観光できると人気です。 九州の空の玄関口である福岡空港からも近く、訪日観光客にも観光ルートとして、訪れやすいエリアです。 では、大分県宇佐市の素晴らしさを動画と共にご覧ください！ 大分県宇佐市でゆったり日本の自然を満喫！ 動画の冒頭でダイナミックに「USA」と書道で書く彼女たち。 大分県宇佐市には日本の自然を満喫できる観光スポットがたくさんあります。 日豊本線宇佐駅周辺の観光スポットから一緒に見ていきましょう。 まず、最初に訪れた観光スポットは千財農園フジ園とバラ園。 ここはインスタ映えスポットです。 宇佐神宮は大分県でも有名な神宮。 参道を歩くだけで日本らしさを感じることができるでしょう。 日本のグルメを大分県宇佐でいただく！ 大分県宇佐市に訪れたら、ご当地グルメを味わいたいですね。 まず訪れたのは長洲港。 ここでは浜の市が楽しめます。 宇佐から揚げを楽しみ、海を見ながら浜焼きをするのも良いでしょう。 また、すっぽん料理やどぜう料理も宇佐市を代表する名物。 ブドウ狩りやワイン・麦焼酎も宇佐市の観光には欠かせないものです。 大分県宇佐市の大自然を感じるパワースポットへ！ 海の次は山へ訪れてみませんか。 「宇佐のマチュピチュ」と言われる西椎屋の景（にししいやのけい）は絶景です。 院内石橋（いんないいしばし）は景勝地としても有名。 東椎屋の滝（ひがししいやのたき）や岳切渓谷（たっきりけいこく）ではマイナスイオンいっぱい。 安心院盆地（あじむぼんち）は雄大な山々に田んぼと日本らしい風景です。 大分県宇佐市の日本家屋にはカラフルな鏝絵（こてえ）があり、散策も楽しめます。 お子様と一緒の観光では九州自然公園アフリカンサファリへ行ってみるのもいいでしょう。 はちまんの郷、双葉の里もおすすめ。 宿泊はホテルではなく農村民宿で日本文化を体験することもできます。 宇佐市には日本を代表する祭りがいっぱい 日本へ観光に来たら祭りにも参加したいと思いませんか。 大分県宇佐市は祭り・イベントが豊富です。 市民にも人気なのが七夕夏祭り。 漁港ではみなと祭りも行われ、花火大会も。 夏越祭りでは日本の伝統的な祭りを体感できます。 大分県宇佐市の魅力紹介まとめ 今回は動画で大分県宇佐市の素晴らしい観光名所を紹介しました。 こちらの記事で紹介しきれなかった素晴らしい情報や、大分県宇佐市の魅力はまだまだたくさん動画で紹介されています。 訪日外国人にもおすすめの大分県宇佐市へ遊びに来てみませんか？

■Table of Contents Osaka Tourist Attractions: Video Introduction The 28 Best Things to Do in Osaka - Dotonbori - Universal Studios Japan - Osaka Castle - Osaka Castle Park - Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan - Shinsaibashisuji Shopping Street - Sumiyoshi Taisha Shrine - Shitennoji Temple - Kuromon Market - Tempozan Ferris Wheel - Osaka Museum of History - Tenjinbashi-suji Shopping Street - Osaka Museum of Housing and Living - Kamigata Ukiyoe Museum - Umeda Sky Building - Osaka Cupnoodles Museum - Spa World - Tsutenkaku & Shinsekai - Abeno Harukas - Osaka Station City - Namba Yasaka Shrine - Osaka Expo Park - Ohatsu Tenjin Shrine - Minoh Falls and Minoh Park - National Bunraku Theatre - Osaka Science Museum - Tenjin Matsuri (Tenjin Festival) - Den Den Town 5 Unique Experiences to Try in Osaka - Samurai and Ninja Experience - Ceramic Art Experience - Street Go-Kart Experience - Noh Experience - Tea Ceremony Experience The Minami Area of Osaka Summary of Things to Do in Osaka Osaka Tourist Attractions: Video Introduction This video, titled "[Osaka Travel Vlog] Osaka Travel - Popular Spots? & Delicious Food? #Day1" (【大阪 観光Vlog】大阪 旅行 人気スポット・グルメ?を満喫? #Day1), was uploaded by "Shindy Life." Osaka is one of Japan's largest cities, on par even with Tokyo. Osaka is also known as a town of warm-hearted people who cherish laughter and value the bonds they form with others. The video introduces some of the most popular spots in Osaka, including Sennichimae Shopping Street, Namba Grand Kagetsu, and Shinsekai, where the famous landmark, Tsutenkaku Tower, is located. Osaka is also known as the food capital of Japan, and is famous for its delicious cuisine. You can find tasty dishes at places like "JAPANESE TAVERN NAGAHAMA" (大衆酒場 ながはま) and "Yamazaki Gyoza" (餃子の山﨑) which also appear in the video. Before reading further, experience what it's like to travel to Osaka via the video. You're sure to want to visit Osaka after watching it! The 28 Best Things to Do in Osaka There are so many tourist attractions in Osaka that it's easy to be overwhelmed and not know where to go. Below, we've compiled a list of the 27 best things to do when touring Osaka. You're sure to find a place that's to your liking! We hope this list can help you enjoy your trip to Osaka! Photo：Dotonbori, Osaka Dotonbori Osaka is THE place to be if you're looking to experience the rich food culture of Japan. One of the most famous culinary spots in Osaka is Dotonbori. This street is line with famous restaurants such as "Kani Doraku," a restaurant known for its delicious seafood and the large crab that adorns the main entrance. Takohachi (たこ八) and Takoyaki Doraku Wanaka (たこ焼きたこ焼き道楽和　わなか) are two famous takoyaki restaurants offering "takosen," a popular snack made of takoyaki sandwiched between shrimp-flavored rice crackers! You can also enjoy pork buns from "551 Horai," a restaurant in Japan famous for its unique commercials. If you visit Dotonbori, don't forget to take a photo in front of the large Glico sign seen from Ebisu Bridge while enjoying the food. It's the most iconic photo spot in Osaka! Universal Studios Japan Universal Studios Japan is the most popular theme park in Japan's Kansai region. It features both Harry Potter- and Spiderman-themed areas, and visitors can enjoy rides based on Hollywood movies. The park is full of attractions with characters from popular movies and shows that both children and adults alike can enjoy. Tickets can be purchased from the official website, but some travel agencies also offer package plans that include tickets and a one-day pass to Hotel Universal Port, the official hotel of Universal Studios Japan. A Video Article Related to Universal Studios Japan Video article 1:03 The Beauty of Universal Studio Japan's Christmas Tree, Officially Recognized in the Guinness Book of World Records, Will Take Your Breath Away YouTube Osaka Castle Osaka Castle is a symbol of Osaka and attracts many tourists each year. It is also loved by the local people, and is known for having been built by Toyotomi Hideyoshi, a famous Japanese warlord. The castle tower has a heroic presence, and was reconstructed in 1931 with donations from the citizens of Osaka. Since its reconstruction, the castle has been used as a history museum, displaying a wealth of cultural assets related to the Sengoku Period (1467-1615 AD) and Toyotomi Hideyoshi. The observatory also offers a view of Osaka's modern skyscrapers. An admission fee of 600 yen is charged to visit the Osaka Castle Keep, which serves as a history museum. A Video Article Related to Osaka Castle Video article 3:35 Osaka Castle - Built by Toyotomi Hideyoshi, the Second Great Unifier of Japan, in Osaka! Learn About the History of the Warring States Period Through Famous Swords and Armor! YouTube Osaka Castle Park Osaka Castle Park is an urban park with Osaka Castle at its center. With a view of the historical Osaka Castle Keep, Osaka Castle Park is a popular place for tourists and citizens of Osaka to relax and enjoy the flowers of Japan's four seasons. In the spring, visitors can enjoy the plum grove with 1,270 plum trees of some 100 varieties, the cherry blossoms of Nishinomaru Garden with approximately 300 cherry trees, and the colorful autumn leaves of the ginkgo trees in the fall. Other events, such as music concerts, are held at Osaka Castle Band Shell and Osaka-Jo Hall. A Video Article Related to Osaka Castle Video article 3:17 The Best Spots and Times to View the Plum Blossoms at Osaka Castle Park! Discover the Symbol of Osaka, Japan in Spring! YouTube Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan is a must-see tourist attraction for families sightseeing in Osaka. One of the world's largest aquariums, Kaiyukan reproduces the natural environment of the Pacific Ocean, with 30,000 plants and animals of 620 varieties on display. Of particular note is the giant tank, which is 9 meters deep and 34 meters long, reproducing the environment of the Pacific Ocean, where large stingrays, migratory fish, and the symbol of Kaiyukan, the whale shark, can be seen swimming at their leisure. Whale sharks can be seen only in four places in Japan, one of which is Kaiyukan. Shinsaibashisuji Shopping Street Shinsaibashisuji Shopping Street stretches 580 meters from north to south and is a leading attraction in Osaka's Minami district. It's lined with approximately 180 stores, including Daimaru, a Japanese department store chain, as well as clothing stores, and restaurants. The historic shopping street, which has existed since the Edo Period (1603-1868), is now a highly popular tourist attraction among both locals and foreign tourists alike. It's also a recommended spot for those looking to enjoy Osaka's rich food culture, including Osaka's famous takoyaki (fried balls of octopus), okonomiyaki (savory Japanese-style pancakes), and kushikatsu (deep-fried skewered pork cutlets). To get there, simply get off at Shinsaibashi Station from the subway. It's an arcade shopping street, so it's the perfect place to go even when the weather is bad. Sumiyoshi Taisha Shrine Photo：Sumiyoshi Taisha Shrine, Osaka Sumiyoshi Taisha is so popular that it's said to be synonymous with Hatsumode (the first temple or shrine visit of the New Year) in Osaka. The historical Sumiyoshi Taisha Shrine, which dates back to 211 AD, is full of interesting sights. Historically intriguing spots await you, such as Sorihashi Bridge, which is approximately 20m long, 3.6m tall, and 5.5m wide, the unusual torii gate with square pillars, and the four main shrines, which are designated as National Treasures. Shitennoji Temple Photo：Shitennoji Temple, Osaka Shitennoji Temple was built as the first state-sponsored temple of Japanese Buddhism. It's a popular spot because it was built by the famous Prince Shotoku. Lining the temple grounds are a number of beautiful vermilion-lacquered buildings reminiscent of the Asuka Period (circa 592-710 AD). Niomon Gate, the five-storied pagoda, Kondo Hall (the main temple hall), and Kodo Hall (the lecture hall) are stunningly beautiful. Many of them are designated as Important Cultural Properties or National Treasures, so they are recommended spots for history buffs as well. It's also said to bring good luck in academics, good health, and children rearing, so be sure to pay a visit! Kuromon Market Photo：Kuromon Market, Osaka The market is called Kuromon Market (黒門市場, lit. "Black Gate Market") because the gate of Enmyouji Temple–located near the market–was black. The 580-meter-long shopping street is lined with approximately 150 stores, and is a place where one can experience firsthand the lively atmosphere of Osaka. In addition to takoyaki and okonomiyaki, there is a wide variety of delicious food to be enjoyed, including seafood skewers, tuna croquettes and other snacks, as well as fresh juices, matcha ice cream, and other delicacies. If you want to enjoy Osaka, the street food capital of Japan, to the fullest, Kuromon Market is a must! Tempozan Ferris Wheel The Tempozan Giant Ferris Wheel, one of the world's largest Ferris wheels, is located in the Tempozan Harbor Village amusement complex, a 5-minute walk from Osakako Station on the Chuo Subway Line. The view from the Ferris wheel, which is 100 meters in diameter, is nothing short of spectacular. The 15-minute ride around the wheel offers an extraordinary view of not only the city of Osaka, but also Akashi Kaikyo Bridge. The Giant Ferris Wheel is illuminated at night and has been recognized as a Night View Heritage of Japan. Osaka Museum of History Photo：Osaka Museum of History, Osaka Located adjacent to Osaka Castle Park and Naniwa no Miya Palace Ruins, the Osaka Museum of History exhibits Osaka's 1,400-year history with full-scale reconstructed buildings and miniatures. Its distinguishing feature is its hands-on experiences by actually touching and experiencing the exhibits with your own hands. The museum offers a daily changing menu of hands-on activities, such as experiences that let participants wear clothes that a Nara period (710-794 AD) official would have worn, or experiencing the work of a money changer from the Edo Period. This is a recommended tourist attraction for visitors with children and those interested in learning about Osaka's history. Tenjinbashi-suji Shopping Street Did you know that Osaka has the longest shopping street in Japan? Tenjinbashi-suji Shopping Street stretches 2.6 kilometers from north to south and is lined with some 800 stores. It has become popular as a sightseeing spot where you can discover the daily lives and warmth of the people of Osaka. Nearby are Osaka Tenmangu Shrine and the headquarters of Kansai Television, and if you're lucky, you can even meet famous entertainers filming on location in the shopping arcade! If you walk slowly, Tenjinbashi-suji Shopping Street can take 3 to 4 hours to explore, making it a good choice for those who want to experience the essence of Osaka. Osaka Museum of Housing and Living Osaka Museum of Housing and Living, which recreates the streets of Osaka in the Edo period (1603-1868), is a place where visitors can feel as if they have stepped back in time to Edo Period Japan. It's the first museum in Japan to specialize in housing, history, and culture, and is a popular spot for tourists as it offers various cultural experiences, such as a matcha (powdered green tea) and kimono. The museum is also conveniently accessible as it is connected to the exit of the subway. Come and experience Osaka in the Edo period at the Osaka Museum of Housing and Living. Kamigata Ukiyoe Museum Kamigata Ukiyo-e depicts pictures of actors in kabuki plays that were performed in Dotonbori. This is the only museum in the world that permanently exhibits Kamigata Ukiyo-e. Kamigata Ukiyo-e is characterized by its depiction of people themselves, without glorifying them as in Edo Ukiyo-e. Perhaps the best part of Kamigata Ukiyo-e is that you can feel the friendly atmosphere of Osaka. Umeda Sky Building Photo：Umeda Sky Building, Osaka The Umeda Sky Building was described as a thrilling skyscraper in the U.K. and was selected as one of the Top 20 Architectural Buildings in the World. The two connected buildings are an ingeniously beautiful sight. The Umeda Sky Building houses restaurants, a movie theater, and an art museum, while the main feature is the Kuchu Teien Observatory, which is located 173 meters above ground and can be accessed from outside. The view from the top 40th floor is nothing short of spectacular. There is free access up to the 39th floor, where there is also a restaurant and bar lounge. It's well known for its beautiful views, especially at night. Osaka Cupnoodles Museum The Cupnoodles Museum is located in Ikeda, the birthplace of instant ramen. In addition to learning about the history of instant ramen and Momofuku Ando, the founder of Nissin Foods, visitors can make their own original chicken ramen and cup noodle, making the museum popular among families and ramen fans alike. The My CUPNOODLES Factory, where you can make your very own cup noodle, is especially popular. When sightseeing in Osaka, be sure to make a trip over to Ikeda. Spa World Spa World: The World's Greatest Hot Springs, is a hot spring theme park with hot spring bathhouses from around the world with different characteristics, as well as swimming pools and ganban'yoku (hot stone spas). It's a popular tourist attraction in Osaka. There are 17 types of baths from 12 countries and 6 types of bedrock baths with different effects, so you can enjoy the feeling like you're traveling to more countries than just Japan. The amusement pool, with its exciting slides, can be enjoyed all year round and is very popular with families. Tsutenkaku & Shinsekai If you want to experience the authentic atmosphere of Osaka, Shinsekai is the place to go. With its gaudy billboards, neon signs, and stores with retro appearances, it's a hugely popular spot among both domestic and international tourists. In addition to popular Osaka restaurants such as Daruma, the birthplace of kushikatsu (deep-fried skewered pork cutlets), you can also play target practice and games in the retro shopping alley Janjan Yokocho. The symbol of Osaka, Tsutenkaku Tower, is also home to Billiken, a charm doll that is said to bring happiness, so be sure to go see him! A Video Article Related to Tsutenkaku Tower and Shinsekai Video article 4:26 Be Enchanted by the Glittering Neon Lights of Osaka and the Night View of Tsutenkaku Lighting up the City of Osaka! Introducing Recommended Spots Around Tsutenkaku Tower, the Symbol of Osaka! YouTube Abeno Harukas Abeno Harukas is the tallest building in Japan at 300 meters above ground. The highlight of the building is the Harukas 300 observation deck on the 60th floor, which offers a panoramic view of the city of Osaka from 300 meters above ground. The view of Osaka from the glass-walled indoor corridor is like looking at a diorama. The view is so spectacular that you'll feel as if you're walking in the sky. For an even more thrilling experience, we recommend EDGE THE HARUKAS, where visitors can cross a glass deck at the top of the building with a safety harness. Osaka Station City Photo：Osaka Station, Osaka Osaka Station City, a commercial complex and station building located in Osaka Station, the gateway to Osaka, is another tourist attraction we recommend checking out. The complex is home to a variety of stores, with the latest fashions to delicious foods and entertainment. The shops offer everything from high quality brands to local food and souvenirs, making it a popular destination for foreign tourists. There is a wide variety of restaurants, including Japanese, Chinese, Italian, and French. In addition, there are eight plazas whose designs were supervised by renowned Japanese industrial designer Eiji Mitooka, that offer visitors a chance to take a break and relax. The outdoor Kaze-no-hiroba Plaza (Plaza of Wind), where visitors can enjoy the tasteful greenery, is another popular spot. Namba Yasaka Shrine Namba Yasaka Shrine is famous for its stage which is a temple inside the mouth of a giant lion. The stage was built as a symbol of the shrine with the idea that it should be something that would surprise the people of Osaka. The giant lion's head, standing 12m tall, 11m wide, and 10m deep, leaves a strong impression on those who see it. People come from all over Japan and abroad to see the lion's head. The shrine is believed to bring blessings for academic achievement, and is popular among athletes as it's said to bring luck in victory. A Video Article Related to Namba Yasaka Shrine Video article 2:05 A Wedding at Namba Yasaka Shrine, the Iconic Shrine Shaped Like a Lion's Head! Experience a Traditional Japanese Wedding in the Heart of Osaka, Japan! YouTube Osaka Expo Park Osaka Expo Park, located in Suita, was created to commemorate the success of Japan World Exposition, Osaka, 1970, or simply "Expo '70." The park is rich in nature and loved by many people, and includes a Japanese garden and a nature and culture garden. The 70-meter-tall Tower of the Sun, designed by artist Taro Okamoto, is a powerful sight when seen up close! The La-La-Port Expocity commercial complex, which is very popular among children, is also located here, making it a great place for families to visit on a sightseeing trip. A Video Article Related to the Tower of the Sun Video article 2:13 The "Tower of the Sun," Created by Japanese Artist Taro Okamoto at Expo '70, Is Open to the Public for the First Time in 48 Years! Feel the Vibrancy of This Restored Masterpiece! YouTube Ohatsu Tenjin Shrine Ohatsu Tenjin Shrine is located on Ohatsu Tenjin Dori Shopping Street, a 5-minute walk from Osaka Station, where nearly 100 restaurants line the street. Its official name is Tsuyu-no-Tenjinja, and it is also known as the birthplace of Sonezaki Shinju (The Love Suicides at Sonezaki), a joruri play written by Chikamatsu Monzaemon. Ohatsu Tenjin Shrine became famous as a shrine for matchmaking because of an actual love suicide incident that served as the model for The Love Suicides at Sonezaki. Heart-shaped ema (votive plaques) and shuin (temple/shrine seals) depicting Ohatsu and Tokubei, the two main characters in the play, are very popular. Minoh Falls and Minoh Park Photo：Minoh Falls at Minoh Park, Osaka Minoh Park, a quasi-national park located around Mt. Minoh, is home to numerous attractions. In addition to the Minoh Park Insectarium, the promenade leading to Minoh Great Falls is perfect for a stroll. The most popular of all is Minoh Falls, which has been selected as one of the Top 100 Waterfalls in Japan. The name Minoh Falls (箕 Mi, meaning "winnowing basket" and 面 noh, meaning "surface") comes from the fact that the water falling from the 33-meter drop resembles the shape of a winnowing basket. During autumn, when the leaves change color, Minoh Falls can be seen through the bright red maple trees, attracting many visitors. National Bunraku Theatre The National Bunraku Theatre, where you can watch Bunraku plays—a uniquely Japanese traditional performing art—is a 1-minute walk from Nihombashi Station. Bunraku, which is both highly artistic and popular, originated in Osaka. Famous bunraku plays include The Battles of Coxinga, created by Chikamatsu Monzaemon, and many more. Designated as a UNESCO World Intangible Cultural Heritage in 2008, visitors can enjoy Bunraku with an earphone device that allows them to listen to what's being said on stage and commentary on the story. If you've never experienced Bunraku before, this is the perfect opportunity to do so! A Video Article Related to Bunraku Video article 1:47 Meet the Craftsman That Has Been Crafting Intricate Bunraku Puppet Heads for 40 Years! This Interview With an Awa Deko Ningyo Puppet Maker Will Make You Fall in Love With Ningyo Joruri! YouTube Osaka Science Museum The theme of the Osaka Science Museum is space and energy, and with exhibits that focus on hands-on learning, children and adults alike can enjoy learning about science. In February 2022, the museum's planetarium was be renovated. It's a popular tourist spot where visitors can observe a starry sky as close to the real thing as possible on one of the world's largest domed screens. Tenjin Matsuri (Tenjin Festival) Photo：Fireworks at Tenjin Matsuri, Osaka Osaka's Tenjin Festival, held over a period of about a month from late June to July 25 each year, is known as one of the three major festivals in Japan. Particularly famous is the fireworks display held on July 25. Every year, as many as 1.2 to 1.3 million people come to the festival to enjoy the approximately 5,000 fireworks that are shot into the night sky. In 2022, because of the global pandemic, only a Shinto ritual was held, but in 2023, the restrictions on activities, put in place because of the coronavirus pandemic, will be relaxed and the festival will be held as usual. Den Den Town If you're looking for anime and manga goods, video games, and just electronics in general, the look no further than Nipponbashi Den Den Town! Den Den Town has been dubbed the "Akihabara of Osaka," and for good reason. You can find everything from maid cafes to retro games and anime figures in Den Den Town, and many people say that it's actually better than Akihabara. There's even a cosplay festival called Street Festa that takes place in Den Den Town every year in March! If you can't make it to Tokyo, or just want to experience Osaka's answer to Akihabara, definitely stop by! 5 Unique Experiences to Try in Osaka Up to this point, we have introduced some of the best sightseeing spots in Osaka. From here, we would like to introduce five unique experiences that you should consider checking out when traveling in Osaka. Samurai and Ninja Experience (Japan Tatedo Association) The "Samurai/Ninja Experience" allows visitors to experience sword fighting used in historical dramas. There are two courses available, a quick course and a regular course, and the staff will instruct you how to use a sword and how to stand in a fight, based on samurai culture. During the final event there are even sound effects, making you feel as if you were the hero of a movie! You can also have your video taken, so you can leave with a unique memory of your visit to Osaka. A Video Article Related to Ninja Video article 1:06 The World of Iga and Koka Ninja! What Is It About Ninja That Fascinates People Around the World? Enjoy Realistic Ninja Experiences in Mie and Shiga Prefectures, the Homes of Ninja! YouTube Ceramic Art Experience (Maishima Pottery Museum) The Maishima Pottery Museum offers a variety of handmade craft experiences. The pottery-making experience is particularly popular. The most popular experience is the "Electric Potter's Wheel Workshop," where you can make teacups and bowls for daily use. You can make as many pieces as you like within the allotted time! The hand-molding experience, in which you can make your own original pottery using a hand-cranked potter's wheel, is great for beginners and children. Adding a pottery-making experience onto your Osaka travel itinerary is a great way to add some flavor to your trip! Street Go-Kart Experience (Akiba Kart Osaka) Wearing a costume of your favorite character, you can tour the sights of Osaka in a go-kart. Overseas travelers will need a passport and an international driver's license. The view of Osaka from the go-carts is said to be exceptional! The attraction of this experience is that since you are dressed conspicuously, you will feel a bit like a celebrity as you are called out to and waved at by people. Noh Experience (Yamamoto Noh Theater) Yamamoto Noh Theater, located in Osaka's Chuo Ward, is a place where visitors can experience the history and traditions of Noh, which was registered as a UNESCO World Intangible Cultural Heritage in 2008. The tour begins with a lecture on Noh by a Kanze-school Noh performer, followed by an opportunity to try on the costumes used in Noh plays, and ends with a chance to put on a Noh mask and learn how to chant and perform Noh songs and gestures. Wearing authentic costumes of Noh, a traditional Japanese performing art, is sure to be an unforgettable experience! A Tea Ceremony Experience at MAIKOYA Photo：Tea ceremony MAIKOYA offers an opportunity to experience the tea ceremony perfected by Sen no Rikyu, a tea master from Sakai, Osaka. MAIKOYA is popular among beginners as they can enjoy tea ceremony in a more relaxed atmosphere, as they are taught about tea ceremony and its manners. You will be served matcha green tea and Japanese sweets in a real tea room while wearing a kimono. This experience of Japanese hospitality is very popular among both Japanese and foreign tourists alike. For those who are not comfortable with a full-fledged tea ceremony, this is a great way to experience a more relaxed tea ceremony and make it a memorable part of your trip. The Minami Area of Osaka Minami is one of two major downtown areas in Osaka (the second being Kita, around Osaka and Umeda Stations) and refers to Namba, Dotonbori, where the famous Glico billboard is located, and Sennichimae home to the giant crab sign of Kani Doraku. It's known for its abundance of street food, restaurants, and places like Amerika-mura where you can go shopping. If you're looking to explore the food culture of Osaka, some foods we recommend trying are Takoyaki, okonomiyaki, kushikatsu, yakitori, and ramen. Summary of Things to Do in Osaka Osaka is one of the five largest cities in Japan, and is full of warm-hearted people. It's a city overflowing with attractions, with not only sightseeing spots and delicious food, but also a variety of facilities offering hands-on activities. Additionally, Osaka is only a short distance from popular tourist destinations like Kyoto and Kobe. You can visit places, like Nankinmachi, the famous Kobe Chinatown, or see the historic tourist attractions of Kyoto in just a 30-minute train ride. 15 minutes if you take the shinkansen! We hope this travel guide will be a useful reference for you during your travels in Osaka. The interactions you have with the wonderful people of Osaka are sure to become a memorable chapter of your trip to Japan. 【TripAdvisor】Osaka

This video, titled "Drone Footage｜Ichinoseki City, Iwate Prefecture｜Genbikei Gorge" (ドローン撮影 岩手県一関市 厳美渓), was released by "Iwate Drone Movies" (岩手ドローンムービー). This video introduces Genbikei Gorge, which has been designated a place of scenic beauty and a natural monument. Genbikei Gorge in Ichinoseki City, Iwate Prefecture is the name of a section of ravine in the Iwai River and has long been a popular scenic spot. It is said that Date Masamune, a famous military commander in the Warring States period of Japan, would have praised the valley, and many tourists visit the valley to feel the history of Japan. In this video, you can see the overwhelming grandeur of nature in Genbikei Gorge from the sky, so be sure to check it out.

Introducing the Metropolitan Area Outer Underground Discharge Channel of Saitama Prefecture This video, titled "Metropolitan Area Outer Underground Discharge Channel [Saitama Prefecture Official Sightseeing Video]" (首都圏外郭放水路【埼玉県公式観光動画】), was released by "Chokotabi Saitama." The Metropolitan Area Outer Underground Discharge Channel, also known as the "Underground Parthenon," is one of the largest underground drainage channels in the world, designed to protect the eastern area of Saitama Prefecture from floods. The Metropolitan Area Outer Underground Discharge Channel is a tunneling shield constructed using the muddy-shield type method, and boasts a length of about 6.3 km with an inner diameter of about 10 m. Enjoy the video of the beautiful underground drainage channel, reminiscent of a temple, in Kasukabe City, Saitama Prefecture. A Closer Look at the Metropolitan Area Outer Underground Discharge Channel Introduced in the Video Photo：The Metropolitan Area Outer Underground Discharge Channel, Saitama Prefecture The Metropolitan Area Outer Underground Discharge Channel is a flood protection facility built by the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism; and Kasukabe City is in charge of its maintenance. It began being used in June 2006. The official nickname is "Sairyu no Kawa" (the River of Sairyu) but it is also referred to as an underground temple. It is a class A river (specified waterways of special importance protected by the government) belonging to the Tone River system and is a ministerial management section (section outside the designated section) under direct control of the national government. The Metropolitan Area Outer Underground Discharge Channel, which is located directly under the National Route 16 highway, has the ability to reduce flooding in the Naka River, Kuramatsu River, Ootoshi Furutone River, No.18 Channel, and the Komatsu River. The Function of the Metropolitan Area Outer Underground Discharge Channel Photo：The Metropolitan Area Outer Underground Discharge Channel The Metropolitan Area Outer Underground Discharge Channel, located 22m underground, is 177m long, 78m wide, and 18m tall. Each pillar weighs 500 tons, and 59 of them line the inside of the channel. You can see the pillars lined up in the facility from 1:05 in the video. The Metropolitan Area Outer Underground Discharge Channel consists of an "inflow facility" and a "vertical shaft," a "tunnel" that drains floods, a "pressure control water tank" that weakens the force of water and secures the flow, and a "drainage pump station" that discharges floods. In the event of a flood, rainwater is stored in the Metropolitan Area Outer Underground Discharge Channel and then pumped out to the Edo River to prevent damage. During Typhoon No. 19 in 2019, it helped to dramatically deter damage by filling with water to 90% of its maximum capacity. Summary of the Metropolitan Area Outer Underground Discharge Channel of Saitama Prefecture Photo：The Metropolitan Area Outer Underground Discharge Channel The Metropolitan Area Outer Underground Discharge Channel is a comprehensive and lifelong learning facility, and you can tour the inside of the pressure-regulating water tank that is introduced in the video (reservations are required). During the tour, you can see the operation room show at 0:37 in the video, and the first vertical shaft that you can see from 1:48 that guides the drainage from the river, so if you want to experience one of the safeguards protecting Saitama from mother nature, be sure to visit the facility. If you want to tour the facility, be sure to stay on the lookout for the Showa Drainage Pump Station that can be seen from 0:21 in the video, in the underground exploration museum for the Metropolitan Area Outer Underground Discharge Channel, which is also called "Ryu Q Kan." 【Metropolitan Area Outer Underground Discharge Channel】 【Address】720 Kamikanasaki Kasukabe City, Saitama Prefecture 【Access】10 minutes by car or bus from Tobu Noda Line Minami-Sakurai Station 【Official Website】Metropolitan Area Outer Underground Discharge Channel https://www.ktr.mlit.go.jp/edogawa//edogawa_index045.html 【Tripadvisor】Metropolitan Area Outer Underground Discharge Channel https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g1021410-d12864760-Reviews-The_Metropolitan_Area_Outer_Underground_Discharge_Channel-Kasukabe_Saitama_Pref.html

Hyogo, Wakayama, Nara, Kyoto, and Mie｜8 Must-See Plum Blossom Spots in Kansai and Nearby Sightseeing Ideas. The flower that signals the arrival of spring earlier than any other is the plum blossom. It begins blooming a little ahead of cherry blossoms, and with its soft, drifting fragrance and red-and-white hues, it lets you feel the very moment when the season turns. In this article, we focus on eight plum blossom spots in Hyogo, Wakayama, Nara, Kyoto, and Mie featured in a YouTube video. We explain each site’s highlights, origins, and unique characteristics in detail, and we also introduce nearby attractions worth adding to your itinerary. Where Did Plum Blossom Viewing Begin? Was It Really the Star Before Cherry Blossoms? Photo: Plum blossoms Today, “hanami” usually means cherry blossom viewing. However, during the Nara period, the true “star flower” was the plum blossom. In the Manyoshu, poems that include the character for “plum” are said to outnumber those mentioning “cherry blossoms,” showing how deeply people of the time were moved by plums.There is also a record that in Tenpyo 2 (730), a “Plum Blossom Banquet” was held in Dazaifu, where attendees composed poems inspired by plum blossoms.Back then, plum blossoms were not so much a flower that had long been part of Japan, but rather a new and admired flower introduced from China. As time went on, flower viewing as a leisure activity shifted its focus to cherry blossoms, while plums continued to be cherished for their fragrance, association with learning, and auspicious symbolism.With their red-and-white colors symbolizing good fortune, and their ability to bloom after enduring winter, plum blossoms have blended naturally into everyday life as a lucky motif.They are dazzling at full bloom, and when the petals begin to fall, there are moments that can even evoke the swirl of falling cherry blossoms. Plum blossoms feel like flowers that quietly show us the entrance to spring. When Is the Best Time to See Plum Blossoms in Kansai? A Quick Guide to Bloom Timing Broadly speaking, the plum blossom season in Kansai runs from late January to late March.That said, even within Kansai, the timing can shift easily depending on coastal versus inland areas, mountain valleys, and elevation, so the peak period can be tricky to predict. A Simple Guide From First Bloom to Peak Season Wakayama (Minabe): Easy to plan for early in the season. The grove typically opens from late January, with peak viewing around mid-February.Kyoto (city areas): From February through March. The Tenmangu Shrine Plum Blossom Festival (late February) is also a seasonal cue.Nara (Tsukigase and Gojo): Mainly mid-February through March. Tsukigase spreads across a gorge with around 10,000 trees.Hyogo (Kobe and the foothills of Mt. Rokko): In some years the plum blossom season doesn't really take off until March. The Hokura Plum Grove is usually at its best from the middle of March.Mie (Inabe and Suzuka): Late February through March. Suzuka no Mori Garden is especially known for its nighttime atmosphere. 1. Hokura Plum Grove (Kobe, Hyogo)｜A “Reward” of Plum Blossoms Overlooking the City and Sea Photo: Hokura Plum Grove, Kobe, Hyogo You can see the scene at Hokura Plum Grove (00:45).Hokura Plum Grove was created in 1975 on Mt. Hokura in Higashinada Ward, Kobe, out of a desire to bring back the former Okamoto plum groves. With about 100 white and red plum trees, its biggest draw is the view framed by the cityscape and the sea.The highlight is the moment when the view suddenly opens up after the climb. The fragrance seems to bring spring ahead of time, and even the slope beneath your feet becomes part of a “small journey.” Many visitors enjoy a quiet walk rather than a picnic-style party, but on popular days it can feel a bit like people are claiming spots. Comfortable walking shoes are a good idea. Nearby attractions (Kobe, Hyogo) After visiting Hokura Plum Grove, stopping by the nearby Hokura Shrine before heading back down the mountain is a natural next step. Okamoto Plum Grove Park has around 200 trees and a wide variety of cultivars. It is close to the station and great for “plum-hopping.” After descending, taking a café break or strolling around the Hankyu Okamoto Station area is a pleasant way to settle into the afterglow of your hike. If you want to add a more classic sightseeing touch, consider visiting the Nada sake breweries, which are easy to reach from Higashinada. You can learn at the visitor facilities and pick out souvenirs as well. Basic information Best season: From mid-March onward (varies by year) Access: About a 40-minute walk from Hankyu “Okamoto Station” (approximate)Admission: Free(transportation and nearby facilities not included) Official website: https://www.city.kobe.lg.jp/b07715/kuyakusho/higashinadaku/shoukai/shoukai/ume.html 2. Minabe Plum Grove (Minabe Town, Wakayama)｜A Vast Plum Grove Known as “A Million at a Glance, Fragrance for Ten Miles” Photo: Minabe Plum Grove, Minabe Town, Wakayama You can see the scene at Minabe Plum Grove (02:21).Minabe Plum Grove is one of Japan’s largest, often described as “a million blossoms at a glance, fragrance for ten miles.” As you walk through the aromatic air, it feels like you can hear spring drawing closer. The grove typically opens from late January to early March, with peak viewing around mid-February.Minabe Town is also known as a major plum-producing region, where plums are closely tied not only to tourism but also to everyday life and local work. Here, words like umeboshi and traditional plum processing feel less like a simple local specialty and more like something you can experience as living culture. Nearby attractions (Wakayama) Around Minabe Plum Grove, there are plenty of easy detours where you can experience what it means to be in a plum-producing region. Pairing your walk with shopping for plum products or visiting related facilities helps the scenery linger as “flavor memories,” too. If you have more time, heading toward Shirahama to add a coastal walk with dramatic views, or a day-use soak in Shirahama Onsen, can elevate the trip into a truly satisfying spring getaway. Basic information Location: Banre area, Minabe Town, Hidaka District, Wakayama Prefecture Hours: 8:00–17:00 (during the open season) Admission: Adults 500 yen, elementary and junior high school students 200 yen (approximate) Access: About 5–6 minutes by car from Minabe IC (approximate) Parking: Paid Official website: https://minabebairin.com 3. Ano Plum Grove (Gojo City, Nara)｜A Story of 20,000 Trees Inspired by Yoshino Photo: Ano Plum Grove, Gojo City, Nara You can see the scene at Ano Plum Grove (04:09).Ano Plum Grove spreads across the hills of Nishiyoshino, Gojo City, Nara Prefecture, with around 20,000 plum trees.What makes it special is the way the viewing areas are named “Hitome Senbon,” “Mikaeri Senbon,” and “Oku no Senbon,” echoing the famous cherry blossom zones of Mt. Yoshino. You can feel the ambition to create a spring experience with plums that can stand alongside Yoshino’s blossoms.Allow about three hours to explore the area. If you take your time, pausing at viewpoints and breathing in the fragrance rather than rushing, the scenery stays with you long after you leave. Nearby attractions (Nara) One of the best parts of Ano Plum Grove is how you can layer a sense of history onto the plum scenery. If you visit the nearby former Ano Imperial Palace site (Hori Family Residence), you will gain a better sense of this area’s background, which makes the plum landscape even more memorable. On the way back, stopping by Gojo Shinmachi Street to stroll through an Edo-period townscape and take a break with something sweet connects nature and town walking, adding density to your day. Basic information Location: Kitazogi, Nishiyoshino-cho, Gojo City, Nara Prefecture Best season: Late February to early March (approximate) Inquiry: 0747-33-0301 (local) Official website: https://www.city.gojo.lg.jp/soshiki/nishiyoshino/1/2015.html 4. Tsukigase Plum Valley (Nara City, Nara)｜A “Spring Panorama” of Gorge, Lake, and 10,000 Trees Photo: Tsukigase Plum Valley, Nara City, Nara You can see the scene at Tsukigase Plum Valley (05:43). Tsukigase Plum Valley is one of Japan’s leading plum blossom destinations, with more than 10,000 trees stretching along the gorge of the Satsukigawa (Nabari River). It was designated a National Scenic Spot in 1922.Peak season is around mid-February through March. The fragrance lingers as if pooling in the gorge, and the scenery seems to loosen and open up the more you walk, a signature charm of Tsukigase.And this is a place that goes beyond being simply “photogenic.” It is said that plum trees were first planted in the precincts of Shinpukuji Temple in the Kamakura period, and the area later drew poets and scholars. That depth of time gives the landscape a quiet sense of presence. Nearby attractions (Nara City, Nara) Because Tsukigase Plum Valley is best enjoyed on foot along the gorge, the perfect nearby plan is one that warms you up and neatly rounds out the day. After your walk, soak and unwind at Ume no Sato Tsukigase Onsen to melt away the chill and the fatigue that tends to build up in this season. If you have extra time, stopping by a nearby roadside station to pick out local foods and souvenirs adds another small pleasure to the trip home.. Basic information Access: About 80 minutes by bus from JR Nara Station or Kintetsu Nara Station (approximate) Best season: Mid-February to March (approximate) Official website: https://www.city.nara.lg.jp/sightseeing/naraharu/112100.html 5. Kitano Tenmangu Shrine (Kyoto City, Kyoto)｜Plum Blossoms, Learning, and the Legend of the “Flying Plum” Photo: Plum Garden “Hana no Niwa” at Kitano Tenmangu Shrine, Kyoto You can see the scene at Kitano Tenmangu Shrine (08:13).Kitano Tenmangu Shrine is a Tenmangu shrine associated with Sugawara no Michizane and is affectionately known as “Tenjin-san.” It has a deep connection with plum blossoms, and the plum tree in front of the main hall is said to be a special tree that carries on the plum Michizane loved.Visiting amid the fragrance of plum blossoms offers a calm, centering stillness that goes beyond prayers for academic success.During plum season, many visitors also come to receive goshuin stamps, and the atmosphere on the grounds feels even more like a springtime event. As the opening period, program details, and fees for the plum garden vary by year, it is best to check the official announcement shortly before your visit. Nearby attractions (Kyoto City, Kyoto) The area around Kitano Tenmangu Shrine makes it easy to build a classic “Kyoto highlights” itinerary, even for first-time visitors. After visiting the plum garden and paying your respects, consider heading to Kinkakuji or Ryoanji to experience Kyoto’s iconic scenery and quiet beauty in a single day. If you would rather slow down, stroll around the Kamishichiken and Nishijin neighborhoods. Adding a break for wagashi sweets or a light meal helps keep the day relaxed rather than rushed. Basic information Location: Kamigyo Ward, Kyoto City (Kitano Tenmangu Shrine)Plum garden and program details: Periods and fees vary by year (check official announcements)Official website: https://kitanotenmangu.or.jp/guidance/baien/ 6. Jonangu Shrine (Kyoto City, Kyoto)｜A Garden Where Weeping Plums and Camellias Overlap in Spring Photo: Weeping plums and fallen camellias at Jonangu Shrine, Kyoto You can see the scene at Jonangu Shrine (09:51).Jonangu Shrine was founded to the south of Kyoto at the time of the Heian capital’s establishment and has long been revered as a major shrine for protection against misfortune.In spring, it is famous for the “Weeping Plum and Camellia Festival,” where about 150 weeping plum trees and around 400 camellias can be enjoyed at the same time. As the blossoms begin to fall, the “carpet of petals” covering the ground is another highlight.Nighttime cherry blossoms are wonderful, too, but Jonangu feels best enjoyed in daylight, when you can slowly appreciate the textures of the flowers. To avoid crowds, visiting right after opening or on weekdays is generally more comfortable. Nearby attractions (Kyoto City, Kyoto) After Jonangu Shrine, linking your trip to the Fushimi area makes the sightseeing plan easy to organize. Fushimi is known as a sake-brewing district. Combining a stroll through the brewery townscape with museum visits adds cultural depth to a flower-viewing outing. If you have time, Fushimi Inari Taisha is also a great option. With a mix of worship and walking, even a half-day outing can feel well-rounded, with “seeing, walking, and tasting” all covered. Basic information Weeping Plum and Camellia Festival: Feb 18 to Mar 22 (varies by year)Visiting hours: 9:00–16:30 (last admission 16:00)Admission fee: Adults 1,000 yen, elementary school students 600 yen (varies by period and category)Official website: https://www.jonangu.com/shidareume.html 7. Inabe City Plum Grove Park (Inabe City, Mie)｜A “Color Patchwork” of Mountains and Plum Blossoms Photo: Inabe City Plum Grove Park, Inabe City, Mie You can see the scene at Inabe City Plum Grove Park (11:45).Inabe City Plum Grove Park is a well-known plum blossom spot located within the Inabe City Agricultural Park in Mie Prefecture. During the plum festival period, an admission fee is charged, and opening hours are generally from 9:00 to 16:00.The sight of colors spreading across the slopes looks especially crisp on clear days, and some visitors may immediately think of great photo opportunities.That said, this feels less like a place made solely for photographs and more like a place to take in the entire landscape from the observation decks. While enjoying sheer scale, like counting cherry trees, can be fun, Inabe’s appeal is how clearly you can see differences in varieties through color, with highlights scattered throughout the park. Nearby attractions (Inabe City, Mie) After Inabe City Plum Grove Park, adding a relaxing detour in the Ageki area can boost overall satisfaction. There are facilities where you can enjoy hot springs, saunas, and meals, which is perfect for the chilly plum blossom season. If you have extra time, a short stroll through Ageki’s shopping streets before heading home is also recommended. It is a pleasant way to soak up “just a little more” local atmosphere at the end of your trip. Basic information Location: 717 Kanae, Fujiwara-cho, Inabe City, Mie PrefectureHours: 9:00–16:00Admission fee: Adults 500 yen (approximate, during the plum festival period)Official event information: Updated as neededOfficial website: https://www.kankomie.or.jp/event/11313 8. Suzuka no Mori Garden (Suzuka City, Mie)｜A “Weeping Plum Chandelier” Floating in the Night Photo: Suzuka no Mori Garden, Suzuka City, Mie You can see the scene at Suzuka no Mori Garden (14:27).Suzuka no Mori Garden is a research and cultivation farm for weeping plum trees operated by the Akatsuka Botanical Garden Group. The garden has about 200 notable trees, and it is striking how clearly the purpose of preserving and passing down pruning and training techniques is stated.The signature highlights are the trees known as “Heaven’s Dragon” and “Earth’s Dragon,” estimated to be more than 100 years old. They are especially admired as ancient specimens of Kureha weeping plums.And this is a place where nighttime can be the main event. During the illumination period, the garden stays open until 20:30 (last admission 20:00), and watching the blossoms glow against the darkness creates a fantastical atmosphere distinct from nighttime cherry blossoms.Dress warmly. On windy days, it can feel much colder than you might expect. Nearby attractions (Mie Prefecture) One of the best things about Suzuka no Mori Garden is how easy it is to plan nearby sightseeing around your preferred style of trip. If you want to add a quiet, reflective moment, visiting Tsubaki Grand Shrine is a great option, with forest air that helps you reset. For family trips, pairing the outing with Suzuka Circuit makes planning easier by adding a major attraction. If you spend the evening out for the illuminations, ending the day by warming up in the Yunoyama Onsen area leaves a clean, satisfying afterglow. Basic information Location: 151-2 Yamamoto-cho, Suzuka City, Mie Prefecture Open period: Feb 21 to late March (planned, varies by year) Fee: 700–2,000 yen (varies depending on bloom conditions) Access: Approximate travel times available from Kintetsu Yokkaichi Station, JR Yokkaichi Station, Kintetsu Komono Station, and others Official website: https://www.akatsuka.gr.jp/group/suzuka/index.html Conclusion｜Plum Blossoms in Kansai Become a “Spring Story,” Including the Journey Itself Plum blossom destinations in Kansai each have completely different expressions, even though they all feature the same flower. Overlooking the sea and city (Hokura Plum Grove, Kobe, Hyogo) Enveloped by fragrance on a grand scale (Minabe Plum Grove, Minabe Town, Wakayama) A story inspired by Yoshino (Ano Plum Grove, Gojo City, Nara) Walking through a scenic gorge (Tsukigase Plum Valley, Nara City, Nara) The bond between learning and plums (Kitano Tenmangu Shrine, Kyoto City, Kyoto) Overlapping seasons in a garden (Jonangu Shrine, Kyoto City, Kyoto) A mountain panorama of colors (Inabe City Plum Grove Park, Inabe City, Mie) A fantasy that comes alive at night (Suzuka no Mori Garden, Suzuka City, Mie) For travel planning, Kyoto is easy to organize as day trips centered on temples and shrines, while in Nara, the time spent walking itself adds to the satisfaction of the journey. In Mie, combining a car or tour makes travel much more comfortable, and the flexibility to change destinations depending on fees and bloom conditions is a major advantage.Lastly, because flowering forecasts can fluctuate from place to place, checking official bloom updates once before departure will help you travel with peace of mind. .caption-heading-2 { font-weight: bold; font-size: 1.7rem; margin-bottom: 15px; max-width: 800px; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; margin-top: 60px; } .mod-article-caption .caption-text { margin-bottom: 40px; } .caption-information-table { background-color: #efefef; margin-top: -20px; margin-bottom: 50px; padding: 20px; border-radius: 8px; width: 90%; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; } .caption-information-table.blue { background-color: #fffaef; } .caption-information-table .title { font-weight: bold; font-size: 1.7rem; } @media screen and (max-width: 1024px) { .caption-information-table { width: 95%; padding: 30px 15px 30px 15px; } } .caption-heading-table .caption-text li { line-height: 2.5rem; margin-top: 1.3rem; } .mod-article-caption .caption-heading { position: relative; border-left: 5px solid #ff1300; padding-left: 10px; margin-top: 60px; } .mod-article-caption .caption-text { margin-bottom: 50px; } .mod-article-caption .caption-heading-table { width: 95%; padding: 30px 15px 1px 15px; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; } .caption-heading-table ul{ counter-reset: listnum; /* カウンターをリセット */ list-style: none; /* 標準のスタイルは消す */ font-size: 1.5rem !important; margin-bottom: 15px; } .caption-heading-table ul.list-style-number-jp>li{ margin-left: 1.1em; text-indent: -1.1em; font-weight: bold; } .caption-heading-table ul.list-style-number-jp>li::before{ counter-increment: listnum; /* counter-resetと同じ文字列 */ content: counter(listnum); /* カウントした数に応じて番号を表示 */ content: counter(listnum) ". 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The Robot Avatar Orihime This video, titled "Be Anywhere With Your Own Avatar｜A Japanese Venture Developing Robots" (自分の分身でどこにでも　ロボット開発した日本のベンチャー), was released by "BBC News Japan." Have you heard of the robot avatar OriHime(織姫)? This video introduces the robot avatar OriHime that was developed by a startup company located in Mitaka city, Tokyo. The video is about Ory Laboratory that is run by the robot researcher and the developer of OriHime Kentaro Yoshifuji(吉藤健太朗) and the interesting story of how OriHime was developed. Watch the video to learn about Japan’s advanced technology. Why Was OriHime Developed Source :YouTube screenshot Yoshifuji Kentaro developed OriHime from his own experience of feeling lonely while he was hospitalized for a certain period of time. At that time, he thought of a way to allow bedridden people to communicate with others remotely throughout the internet. Yoshioka Kentaro now goes by the name Yoshifuji Ory, and has become a person who is drawing attention from all over Japan and the world. Even Those Confined to a Bed Can Operate the Robot Avatar Orihime! Source :YouTube screenshot Even a bedridden person can operate OriHime remotely by his/herself. It takes a little time to get used to, but using a microphone, speakers, and using the "OriHime eye switch" communication device, even a bedridden person can operate OriHime easily with their eyes and fingers. You can see OriHime being operated at around 1:16 in the video. Expanding Our Capabilities With OriHime Photo：Remote work Orihime is not just for those suffering from illnesses either. It can also be a tool to communicate with family members who are away from home, working remotely, etc. For those who have kids that you sometimes have to leave at home alone, OriHime can be a good tool to check in on them. Besides parenting, it is also useful for children's education, with programs such as OriHime education, OriHime-D, and OriHime children's programming. As Japan's workforce continues to decline, the presence of robot avatars such as OriHime and remote work will grow. Orihime - The Robot Avatar Drawing Attention From All Over the World OriHime is now drawing attention from all over the world. OriHime being an employee of the cafe "WIRED SHIBUYA" in Shibuya made headlines around the world. The uses of OriHime will also expand by improving service staff and robot communicators. The robot is now drawing attention from around the world, and the creator, Yoshifuji Ory, is considering exporting the robot to different parts of the world in the near future. Having the product you created help people not only in Japan but also worldwide is a dream come true. It is precisely because he is taking on such a challenge that the young robotics researcher has attracted so much attention. Summary of the Robot Avatar OriHime Source :YouTube screenshot The video intrioduces Yoshifuji Kentaro, the creator of the robot avatar OriHime. For many watching this video it's probably like seeing the future you dreamed of as a child finally come to life. It will be interesting to see what OriHime, the Japanese robot avatar, has in store for us.

Walking along an approach path in a quiet forest where only birdsong echoes, you draw closer step by step to a historic shrine building. Journeys that visit these shrines and temples in so-called “hidden regions” are now attracting many people. In this article, based on the YouTube video 【日本の神社仏閣旅】, we introduce the shrines and temples that appear in the video from a traveler’s point of view, highlighting key information and must-see spots. We also explain the appeal of goshuin (special calligraphy stamps given at shrines and temples), basic etiquette for visiting, and tips for access, so even beginners to goshuin trips will find it helpful. An overview of 18 hidden shrines and temples: features, history, and blessings Below, you will find detailed information on all 18 shrines and temples featured in the video, including their characteristics, history, origins, and the blessings they are known for. Haruna Shrine (Takasaki City, Gunma Prefecture) Haruna Shrine (榛名神社, Haruna Jinja), which stands quietly on the slopes of Mount Haruna, is a place where you can deeply feel both history and nature. It is said to have been founded in the era of Emperor Yōmei, and has long been revered as a sacred site of mountain worship. Photo: Haruna Shrine, Takasaki City, Gunma Prefecture The long approach path is wrapped in deep forest, with a stream murmuring beside moss-covered boulders. This mystical route makes the everyday world feel more distant with every step, and gradually brings a sense of inner calm. Along the way, highlights include the towering “Yatate-sugi” cedar and the “Sōryūmon” gate, whose form is said to resemble dragons rising to the heavens. Above all, the rock cliff that rises as if to protect the main hall is overwhelming, and has long been revered as a “rock inhabited by the gods.” The goshuin at Haruna Shrine are striking for their powerful brush strokes, and when limited editions are available, worshippers line up to receive them. After your visit, you can enjoy the local specialty konnyaku dishes in the shrine town at the base of the approach, or combine your trip with sightseeing at nearby Lake Haruna. With its well-balanced appeal as a place of nature, history, and spiritual energy, it is truly a “sacred area you will want to visit again and again.” Address: 849 Harunasan-machi, Takasaki City, Gunma PrefectureGate opening hours: 7:00–18:00 (until 17:00 in winter)Shrine office: 9:00–16:00Access: About 70 minutes by bus from JR Takasaki Station 【Official Website】https://www.haruna.or.jp ※You can watch this part from (0:21) in the video. Akagi Shrine (Maebashi City, Gunma Prefecture) Akagi Shrine stands on the quiet lakeside of Mount Akagi. Its bright vermilion shrine buildings and the clear, refreshing air leave a strong impression, and as soon as you arrive you feel that you have “entered a sacred realm.” Many legends remain here, including the story of Princess Akagi, and from long ago the shrine has been cherished as a place where women’s wishes are granted. The torii gate reflected in the surface of the lake takes on a different atmosphere with each season. In particular, when the morning sun shines in, the scene becomes almost dreamlike, wrapping visitors in a silence that feels like stepping into a painting. Photo: Lake Onuma on Mt. Akagi and the approach bridge to Akagi Shrine, Maebashi City, Gunma Prefecture A fresh breeze created by the nature of Mount Akagi flows through the grounds, and simply strolling around will make you feel lighter. There are also walking paths and cafés along the lakeshore, so spending a leisurely time there after your visit is part of the appeal. Goshuin featuring motifs of Mount Akagi and dragons are especially popular, and seasonal limited designs attract many worshippers. With its blend of grand nature and mythological stories, Akagi Shrine offers new discoveries in any season. Address: 4-2 Akagisan, Fujimi-machi, Maebashi City, Gunma PrefectureVisiting hours: Grounds open at all timesAccess: About 60 minutes by bus from Maebashi Station※You can watch this part from (1:22) in the video. Furumine Shrine (Kanuma City, Tochigi Prefecture) Furumine Shrine, embraced by the vast nature of Furumine-ga-hara, is known as a sacred site of tengu (long-nosed goblin) worship, a unique element of Japanese folk belief. As soon as you step into the grounds, the large tengu masks and carvings that catch your eye give the place a distinctive character, combining solemnity with a surprisingly approachable atmosphere. The shrine has an ancient history and has long been revered as a guardian deity for protection from fire and safety within the home. Photo: Furumine Shrine , Kanuma City, Tochigi Prefecture One feature that cannot be overlooked when speaking of this shrine is the expansive garden, “Furumine-en.” It is decorated with seasonal flowers and trees, and the scenery reflected in the pond is breathtakingly beautiful. Enjoying a bowl of matcha in the garden teahouse gently soothes the fatigue of travel. Furumine Shrine is also famous for having one of the richest varieties of goshuin in Japan. The stamps depicting tengu are all very distinctive, and many people visit specifically to receive them. For those who wish to offer quiet prayers in the middle of great nature, this is an ideal place. Address: 3027 Kusaku, Kanuma City, Tochigi PrefectureShrine office hours: 9:00–16:00Access: About 35 minutes by car from JR Kanuma Station 【Official Website】http://www.furumine-jinjya.jp/ ※You can watch this part from (2:23) in the video. Karasawayama Shrine (Sano City, Tochigi Prefecture) Karasawayama Shrine stands on a mountaintop 247 meters above sea level and is known for its superb view overlooking Sano City. It enshrines Fujiwara no Hidesato, a warrior from the Heian period, and many worshippers visit to pray for success in competition and good fortune in work. Because the shrine is located within the ruins of Karasawa Castle, which was built on the mountain, visitors can also enjoy walking among old stone walls and castle remains. While strolling through the grounds, you may encounter friendly cats that suddenly appear and charm visitors. It has become so popular on social media that it is sometimes called a “cat sanctuary,” and the sight of cats gracefully walking along the stone walls is a scene unique to this shrine. The goshuin feature dignified and weighty brush strokes, and often include a stamp for victory, making them a striking addition to any goshuin book. Address: 1409 Fuji-cho, Sano City, Tochigi PrefectureVisiting hours: Grounds open at all timesAccess: About 15 minutes by car from Sano Station 【Official Website】http://karasawayama.com ※You can watch this part from (3:55) in the video. Torinoko Sanjo Shrine (Nasukagawa Town, Nasu District, Tochigi Prefecture) Torinoko Sanjo Shrine, which sits on the border between Ibaraki and Tochigi prefectures, is famous nationwide as a spiritual power spot for increasing financial fortune. As you enter the grounds, the first thing you notice is the enormous golden owl statue. Its presence is far more powerful than photos can convey, and many visitors instinctively stop to take pictures. In Japanese, owl (fukurō) is associated with wordplay such as “no hardship” (不苦労) and “good fortune comes” (福来朗), so owls are considered symbols of good luck and are placed throughout the grounds. Photo: Torinoko Sanjo Shrine, Nasu District, Tochigi Prefecture Because the shrine stands at a high elevation, the air is clear, and walking through the refreshing grounds gives you the sense that your heart is quietly blending into the stillness of nature. Goshuin with cute owl stamps are especially popular and are highly valued by those who wish to improve their luck. Address: 1948 Yamata, Nakagawa-machi, Nasu District, Tochigi PrefectureHours: Shrine office 9:00–16:00 (subject to change depending on the season)Access: Visiting by car is the most convenient option 【Official Website】https://www.torinokosan.com ※You can watch this part from (5:17) in the video. Saimeiji Temple (Mashiko Town, Haga District, Tochigi Prefecture) Founded in the Heian period, Saimeiji is a tranquil, historic temple nestled in a deep mountain village, and it is famous for its elegant three-storied pagoda, which is designated as an Important Cultural Property of Japan. The delicate carvings and perfectly balanced silhouette are graceful. In the autumn foliage season, the red of the pagoda and the crimson leaves overlap beautifully, creating a breathtaking scene. Photo: Saimeiji Temple, Mashiko Town, Haga District, Tochigi Prefecture Within the grounds, moss-covered stone steps and old temple buildings are scattered about, and walking slowly allows you to feel the depth of history with your whole body. The temple’s “Meishō” bell is known for its clear, resonant tone and is loved as a famous bell. The goshuin are characterized by neat and elegant calligraphy, and at times limited stamps featuring seasonal scenery are also available. Address: 4469 Mashiko, Mashiko Town, Haga District, Tochigi PrefectureVisiting hours: 9:00–16:00Access: About 15 minutes by car from Mashiko Station 【Official Website】http://www.fumon.jp ※You can watch this part from (6:18) in the video. Kumano Kotai Shrine (Kitasaku District, Nagano Prefecture / Usui Pass) This unusual shrine straddles the border between Nagano and Gunma prefectures, and the center line of the main hall itself marks the prefectural border. Photo: The prefectural border at Kumano Kotai Shrine, Kitasaku District, Nagano Prefecture It has long been venerated as a guardian of the mountain pass, where travelers would pray for safety on their journeys. In the grounds stands a giant “Shinano tree,” said to be more than a thousand years old, and looking up at its thick trunk, you cannot help but feel the strength and sacredness of nature. Visitors come to see not only the “Pop-up Shinano Tree Goshuin,” featured in the video, but also the “Prefectural Border Goshuin.” You can receive goshuin from both the Nagano side and the Gunma side shrine offices, and many worshippers enjoy placing the two side by side as a special keepsake that can only be obtained here. Many people also stop by as part of a trip to Karuizawa, and the refreshing highland air enhances the feeling of being on a journey. Address: 1 Toge-machi, Karuizawa Town, Kitasaku District, Nagano PrefectureShrine office hours: 9:00–16:00 (grounds open at all times)Access: About 15 minutes by car from Karuizawa Station 【Official Website】https://kumanokoutai.com/ ※You can watch this part from (7:19) in the video. Kumano Shrine (Annaka City, Gunma Prefecture) Kumano Shrine, which stands quietly in a mountain valley, is a restful place wrapped in a calm atmosphere and the soothing presence of nature. Because it is close to an old mountain pass, it was once used as a place where travelers prayed for a safe journey, and a simple, warm ambience still remains today. If you listen carefully to the gentle rustling of the trees along the approach path, you will feel your heart becoming strangely peaceful. Photo: Kumano Shrine, Annaka City, Gunma Prefecture The goshuin are simple yet refined in style, evoking the presence of a quiet mountain deity. Many people enjoy a “double Kumano visit,” making a pilgrimage to both this shrine and the nearby Kumano Kotai Shrine, and by touring the area you can also sense the history of the old mountain routes. Address: 1 Toge, Matsuida-machi, Annaka City, Gunma PrefectureVisiting hours: Grounds open at all timesAccess: About 15 minutes by car from Karuizawa Station (please note that it is not possible to reach the shrine directly by car from the Gunma side; walking or buses are required, so be sure to check official information for details.)※You can watch this part from (8:41) in the video. Tsubaki Grand Shrine (Suzuka City, Mie Prefecture) Tsubaki Grand Shrine, known as the main shrine of Sarutahiko Ōkami, Japan’s oldest “guiding deity,” is one of the leading spiritual power spots in Mie Prefecture. A dignified atmosphere fills the grounds, and the quietness of the surrounding forest feels like a gentle embrace. Sarutahiko Ōkami is famous as a “god who opens the way,” and many worshippers visit to pray for luck in work and support at turning points in life. Photo: Tsubaki Grand Shrine, Suzuka City, Mie Prefecture Behind the main hall is the “Betsugū Tsubaki Kishi Shrine,” said to be filled with strong spiritual energy and popular as a place where women’s wishes are granted. After your visit, you can also enjoy the local specialty “Tsubaki Torimeshi” at the Tsubaki Kaikan within the grounds. The goshuin feature crisp and dignified calligraphy, and many people collect the monthly limited designs, which are especially attractive. Address: 1871 Yamamoto-cho, Suzuka City, Mie PrefectureShrine office: 8:00–17:00Access: About 45 minutes by bus from Yokkaichi Station 【Official Website】https://tsubaki.or.jp ※You can watch this part from (9:42) in the video. Hakone Shrine (Ashigarashimo District, Kanagawa Prefecture) Hakone Shrine, famous for its vermilion torii gate standing in Lake Ashi, is one of the most renowned shrines in the Kanto region and has been deeply revered by travelers and warriors since ancient times. Founded in the Nara period, this venerable shrine is set in a grand landscape unique to Hakone, where mountains and lake overlap. Walking along the approach path in the clear air feels pleasantly refreshing on the skin and gives the sense that your heart is being cleansed. The “Torii of Peace” standing in the lake is especially beautiful in the soft morning light and at sunset, and in recent years it has drawn attention both in Japan and abroad as a “must-visit scenic spot.” Photo: Hakone Shrine, Ashigarashimo District, Kanagawa Prefecture Within the grounds stands the sacred “Yatate-no-sugi” cedar, believed to be over a thousand years old, where travelers and warriors have long prayed for safety and victory. Right next to the shrine is the new hall of Kuzuryu Shrine, famous as a deity of matchmaking. It is said that visiting both shrines brings blessings in many areas, including financial fortune, good relationships, and the fulfillment of heartfelt wishes. With its beautiful blend of history, nature, and a sacred atmosphere, Hakone Shrine is an essential destination at the heart of any Hakone trip. Address: 80-1 Motohakone, Hakone Town, Ashigarashimo District, Kanagawa PrefectureShrine office reception: 8:15–17:00Prayer reception hours: 8:30–16:00Treasure hall visiting hours: 9:00–16:00Access: About 40 minutes by bus from Hakone-Yumoto Station 【Official Website】https://hakonejinja.or.jp ※You can watch this part from (11:19) in the video. Nakano-dake Shrine (Shimonita Town, Gunma Prefecture) Nakano-dake Shrine, located at the foot of Mount Myōgi, is known for its strikingly unusual giant statue of Daikoku-sama. Shining in gold, this statue stands more than 20 meters tall, and its overwhelming presence when viewed up close leaves a powerful impression. Daikokuten has long been beloved as a deity who brings good fortune and wealth, and this giant statue welcomes visitors as “Japan’s largest Daikoku-sama.” Photo: Nakano-dake Shrine, Shimonita Town, Gunma Prefecture The rocky cliffs of Mount Myōgi that rise behind the shrine have a unique ruggedness, allowing visitors to feel the dynamic power of nature. Walking through the grounds, you can sense a solemn atmosphere, as if the mountain deity is quietly watching over you. In the video, a paper-cut “Dragon Ceiling Painting Goshuin,” a special type of shrine stamp with a cut-out dragon design, is introduced. There is also a Goshuin featuring Daikoku, making it a memorable part of your trip. Address: 1248 Kamiosaka, Shimonita Town, Kanra District, Gunma PrefectureVisiting hours: Grounds open at all timesAccess: About 20 minutes by car from Shimonita Station 【Official Website】https://www.nakanotake.com ※You can watch this part from (12:20) in the video. Myōgi Shrine (Tomioka City, Gunma Prefecture) Myōgi Shrine stands at the base of Mount Myōgi, one of Japan’s three most famous “strange” landscapes for its rugged peaks. The shrine is renowned for its luxurious carvings and solemn buildings. Passing through the vivid vermilion main gate and climbing the steep stone steps, you come face to face with the main hall, whose gorgeous appearance showcases the pinnacle of Edo-period architecture. The richly colored carvings on the Karamon gate are stunningly beautiful, and when you look at them up close, their intricate workmanship is truly overwhelming. Photo: Myogi Shrine, Tomioka City, Gunma Prefecture Mount Myōgi itself is known as a mountain with strong spiritual energy, and many climbers and travelers come to pray for safety. The goshuin are striking for their bold, weighty brush strokes, perfectly conveying the unique dignity and solemnity of this shrine. Address: 6 Myōgi, Myōgi-machi, Tomioka City, Gunma PrefectureVisiting hours: Treasure hall and former palace building 9:00–17:00 (except from 12/20 to 1/10)Access: About 15 minutes by car from Matsuida Station 【Official Website】https://www.myougi.jp ※You can watch this part from (13:21) in the video. Hattasan Soneiji Temple (Fukuroi City, Shizuoka Prefecture) Hattasan, famous as a temple of Yakuyoke Kannon (a Kannon for warding off misfortune), is a well-known temple in Shizuoka that has attracted many worshippers since ancient times. Walking along the long approach path surrounded by trees, the sound of leaves rustling in the wind soothes the heart and allows you to head toward the main hall in a relaxed state of mind. Although the temple is known for warding off bad luck, once you visit, you find that the entire grounds are filled with a gentle atmosphere that truly feels like “a place where your spirit becomes lighter.” Photo: Hattasan Soneiji Temple, Fukuroi City, Shizuoka Prefecture After praying, it is customary to enjoy the temple’s specialty “Yakuyoke dango” rice dumplings. Their simple, gentle sweetness seems to sink slowly into your body after your pilgrimage. The goshuin bear the name of Kannon written in powerful characters, and many visitors receive them with the wish of casting off misfortune. Address: 2777 Toyosawa, Fukuroi City, Shizuoka PrefectureVisiting hours: 8:30–16:30Access: About 15 minutes by bus from Fukuroi Station 【Official Website】https://www.hattasan.or.jp ※You can watch this part from (14:22) in the video. Yusanji Temple (Fukuroi City, Shizuoka Prefecture) Yusanji, a temple wrapped in deep forest, is affectionately known as a temple of “Kannon for the eyes.” Clear spring water flows through the grounds, and the temple has long been a place of prayer for the healing of eye diseases, drawing many devotees over the centuries. The approach path through the trees is filled with a pleasant quiet, and simply walking along it surrounds you with a soothing atmosphere created by nature. Photo: Yusanji Temple, Fukuroi City, Shizuoka Prefecture The main hall is solid and dignified yet warm, and when you put your hands together in prayer, you may feel as if a gentle air is softly embracing you. Several types of goshuin are available, mainly featuring Yakushi Nyorai (the Medicine Buddha) and Kannon, making them perfect mementos of your visit. Address: 1 Muramatsu, Fukuroi City, Shizuoka PrefectureVisiting hours: 9:00–16:30 (the temple grounds can be visited freely, but please check the official website for details.)Access: About 20 minutes by car from Fukuroi Station 【Official Website】https://yusanji.jp ※You can watch this part from (15:59) in the video. Amabiki Kannon (Sakuragawa City, Ibaraki Prefecture) Amabiki Kannon, one of the thirty-three temples of the Bandō Kannon Pilgrimage, is popular as a “flower temple” where seasonal blossoms color the grounds. The hydrangeas in early summer are particularly spectacular, covering the slopes of the grounds in shades of blue and purple. Many people visit just to see this beauty with their own eyes. The sight of hydrangeas sparkling after the rain in the quiet temple grounds is a special beauty that can only be experienced here. Photo: Amabiki Kannon, Sakuragawa City, Ibaraki Prefecture You may also see peacocks freely strolling around the grounds, and first-time visitors are often surprised by their graceful presence. The temple is also famous as a place of prayers for safe childbirth and fertility, and is deeply revered by families and female worshippers. The goshuin, which change with the seasons, feature charming designs and are very popular. Address: 1 Motoki, Sakuragawa City, Ibaraki PrefectureVisiting hours: 8:30–17:00Access: About 10 minutes by car from Iwase Station 【Official Website】http://www.amabiki.or.jp ※You can watch this part from (17:00) in the video. Yamaga Shrine (Ueda City, Nagano Prefecture) Yamaga Shrine, known for its connection to the Sanada clan, is an irresistible destination for history lovers. The six-coin crest of the Sanada family appears throughout the grounds, and the atmosphere of the Sengoku (Warring States) period still quietly lingers here. In spring, cherry blossoms tint the approach path a soft pink, and the gentle scenery combined with the weight of history captivates visitors. Photo: Yamaga Shrine, Ueda City, Nagano Prefecture The goshuin, which feature the Sanada family crest “Rokumonsen,” are very popular as a memento of your visit. There are many historical sites related to the Sanada clan in the area around the shrine, so combining your visit with a historical walk is highly recommended. It is a calm, quiet place where you can reflect on the spirit of Sengoku-period warriors. Address: 4473 Nagamura, Sanada-machi, Ueda City, Nagano PrefectureVisiting hours: Grounds open at all timesAccess: About 25 minutes by car from Ueda Station 【Official Website】http://www.yamaga.or.jp ※You can watch this part from (18:01) in the video. Daihōji Temple (Chiisagata District, Nagano Prefecture) Daihōji Temple, home to a National Treasure three-storied pagoda famous as the “Mikaeri no Tō” or “Pagoda that makes you look back,” is a beautiful temple that harmonizes perfectly with the surrounding satoyama countryside. The pagoda is crafted with great precision down to the smallest details, and its elegant, slender form is said to change expression depending on the angle from which you view it, which is why people find themselves turning back again and again to look at it. Photo: Three-story pagoda at Daihoji Temple, Chiisagata District, Nagano Prefecture The grounds are quiet, filled with the sound of birdsong and a gentle flow of time, making it a perfect place when you want to calm your mind. The goshuin are written in a refined script, conveying the dignity of a temple that houses a National Treasure. Address: 2052 Atogō, Aoki Village, Chiisagata District, Nagano PrefectureVisiting hours: April–October 9:00–17:00 / November–March 9:00–16:00Access: About 20 minutes by car from Ueda Station 【Official Website】https://www.daihoujitemple.com/english-1 ※You can watch this part from (19:28) in the video. Oiwa Shrine (Hitachi City, Ibaraki Prefecture) Oiwa Shrine is known as a place of such high spiritual purity that it is often called “one of Japan’s foremost power spots.” Although the exact founding date is unknown, ruins show that rituals were held here from ancient times, and Japan’s oldest gazetteer, the “Hitachi no Kuni Fudoki,” records this as a “sacred mountain where heavenly deities descended.” When you step into the grounds, the forest of giant trees instantly shuts out the signs of the everyday world, and a tranquil, mysterious air fills the space. Among the sacred trees, the one known as the “three cedars” has an overwhelming presence, and just taking a deep breath beneath it can feel like a purifying experience. Photo: Oiwa Shrine, Hitachi City, Ibaraki Prefecture Because this site has long preserved a tradition of syncretic worship of Shinto and Buddhism, both shrine and temple buildings stand together in the grounds, allowing visitors to experience a unique sense of “ancient Japanese religious belief.” Many worshippers say that “coming here somehow brings the mind into balance,” so it is especially recommended for those who want to reset their spirit or feel the power of nature. Some paths are steep mountain trails, but the inspiration and insights gained by walking them are all the greater, making this truly “a sacred area that can only be fully appreciated on foot.” Address: 752 Iri-shikama-cho, Hitachi City, Ibaraki PrefectureVisiting hours: 9:00–17:00Access: About 20 minutes by car from JR Hitachi Station 【Official Website】https://www.oiwajinja.jp ※You can watch this part from (20:29) in the video. What to know before you start a goshuin trip To fully enjoy visiting shrines and temples for goshuin, it is a good idea to first prepare a favorite goshuin book and go out in comfortable clothing that is easy to walk in. At shrines and temples, the basic etiquette is to complete your worship and then request a goshuin. Some places prefer that photos are not taken, so quietly check the posted notices as you go. Most of all, the important thing is to take your time. If you walk from one place to the next while feeling the seasonal scenery and facing each shrine or temple with a calm mind, your journey will naturally become a gentle one that brings your heart into balance. Conclusion: A shrine journey filled with prayer and discovery Hidden shrines and temples have a special “atmosphere” that you cannot experience through sightseeing alone. The moments when you put your hands together in prayer, the spaces where you resonate with nature, and the intellectual curiosity you feel when touching history—all of these are recorded as pages in your goshuin book.Why not begin your own goshuin journey and experience these quiet, moving moments for yourself?

This video, titled "A Festival for Manga and Anime Fans｜Comiket Is Now Open!" (漫画・アニメファンの祭典　コミックマーケットが開幕), was released by "TOKYO MX." Comic Market (commonly known as Comiket), held every summer and winter, is a festival of Japanese manga and anime. Usually held at Tokyo Big Sight, Comiket attracts about 500,000 fans to the market where manga and doujinshi works are sold. Popular personalities and companies also participate in the market. Manga and anime otaku create their own doujin and cosplay costumes for the event. The hall is packed first thing in the morning and there are many otaku who spend tens of thousands of yen at a time to get their favorite works.

■Contents Introduction What Makes Kushiro Special: Port-Town Sunsets and Vast Nature in a Single Trip How Kushiro Lets You Enjoy Port-Town Sunsets and the Wild Nature of Kushiro Shitsugen National Park at Once Why the Kushiro Prince Hotel Is a Convenient Base for Both City Strolls and Out-of-Town Sightseeing Watching Kushiro's Sunset from Your Room: Why Stay at the Kushiro Prince Hotel What Sunset Views Can You Enjoy from the High-Floor Twin and Double Rooms? Kushiro's Sunset from Nusamai Bridge: A Scenic Spot Within Walking Distance of the Hotel When Is Kushiro's Sunset at Its Best? The Autumn Equinox (Around September 23) and Fall Highlights City Spots to Enjoy Around the Kushiro Prince Hotel: A Guide to Strolling the Port Town What Can You Enjoy at Fisherman's Wharf MOO? The Charms of a Waterfront Stroll What Is Washo Market's Katte-don? A Kushiro Classic Worth a Stop During Your Stay Robatayaki, Zangi and Spakatsu: How to Enjoy Kushiro-Born Dishes on an Evening Stroll How to Enjoy the Wild Nature of Kushiro Wetland: Expanding Your Sightseeing from the Kushiro Prince Hotel What Does Car Sharing from the Hotel Change? A Handy Way to Explore the Kushiro Area Freely What Can You See from the Kushiro City Wetland Observatory? A Place to Sense the Scale of Japan's Largest Wetland What Can You Do at Hosooka Observatory and the Onnenai Boardwalk? Enjoying the Wetland by View and on Foot What Kind of Journey Are the Kushiro Shitsugen Norokko Train and Canoeing? Deeper Ways to Enjoy the Wetland What Is a Stay at the Kushiro Prince Hotel Like? Special Time in the Rooms, Dining and Facilities What Guest Rooms Does the Kushiro Prince Hotel Have? The Difference Between the Standard Floors and the High Floors What Kind of Restaurant Is Top of Kushiro? Dining with Views of the City and the Pacific Can Breakfast Change the Mood of Your Day? Why Mornings at the Kushiro Prince Hotel Enrich Your Trip How to Make the Most of Hotel Life with the Fitness Room, Rental Bikes and On-Site Facilities From Sunset to the Morning Sea: Can You Enjoy Scenery That Changes by the Hour? The Value of a Stay at the Kushiro Prince Hotel Does the Way You Enjoy the Kushiro Prince Hotel Change by Season? Sightseeing and Hotel Appeal Through the Year Is Spring in Kushiro Low in Cedar and Cypress Pollen? Why It's Chosen as a Getaway During Pollen Season Why Is Summer Kushiro Popular as a Cool-Weather Retreat? Why the Hotel's Appeal Comes Alive on Longer Stays How to See Red-Crowned Cranes in Winter Kushiro: Enjoying a Trip Centered on Crane Watching and Photography Adding One More Day to Your Kushiro Trip? Side Trips That Expand Your Eastern Hokkaido Journey Akkeshi Oysters and Winter Jewelry Ice: Scenery and Flavors Within a Day Trip from Kushiro Conclusion: How to Make the Most of Kushiro Sightseeing and a Hotel Stay: Why Choose the Kushiro Prince Hotel as Your Base Kushiro Prince Hotel: Essential Information Read more Of Japan's four main islands, Hokkaido lies farthest north. Its eastern reaches, known for tourism purposes as "Higashi Hokkaido" (Eastern Hokkaido), include Kushiro, Nemuro, Akan, Mashu, and Shiretoko. The port town of Kushiro is a place you can enjoy in many ways depending on the season and the purpose of your trip: the wild nature of the Kushiro Wetland, known as Japan's largest wetland; the sunset viewed from Nusamai Bridge, counted among the world's three great sunsets; the seafood of Washo Market; and winter red-crowned crane watching. Photo: The maiden statue on Nusamai Bridge at the mouth of the Kushiro River, with the sunset dyeing the port crimson. A spectacular Kushiro view counted among the world's three great sunsets. In Kushiro, where the attractions are split between the city center and the outskirts, where you stay makes a real difference to how easily you can get around. If you want to comfortably enjoy strolling the city, driving out toward the wetland, and dining in the evening, it pays to book a place that's a convenient base for getting around. With that in mind, this article introduces tips for enjoying Kushiro sightseeing using the Kushiro Prince Hotel as your base. The hotel is located about a 10-minute walk from Kushiro Station on JR (Japan Railways, Japan's main railway group) and stands close to Nusamai Bridge, which spans the Kushiro River. As the tallest hotel in Kushiro, it offers sunset views you won't find elsewhere, Eastern Hokkaido cuisine served at its top-floor restaurant, and car sharing you can pick up and drop off right at the hotel. These thoughtful touches throughout make the stay itself part of the trip. (0:03) Photo: The exterior of the Kushiro Prince Hotel, the tallest hotel in Kushiro, standing near Nusamai Bridge about a 10-minute walk from JR Kushiro Station. For this article, we spoke with the Kushiro Prince Hotel staff who welcome guests there every day, weaving in ways to enjoy the area that only people working on the ground would know. Whether it's your first visit to Kushiro or you've already been several times, you're sure to find travel ideas built around the Kushiro Prince Hotel. What Makes Kushiro Special: Port-Town Sunsets and Vast Nature in a Single Trip The appeal of Kushiro sightseeing is that very different kinds of attractions are gathered within about a 30-minute to one-hour drive of one another. There's the port-town city center facing the Pacific, Japan's largest wetland, the spectacular sunset ranked among the world's three great sunsets, and Washo Market, counted as one of Hokkaido's three great markets. Even if you come with just one of these in mind, you'll naturally end up encountering the others during your stay; that's what defines Kushiro. And precisely because of this, the location of your base, your starting point for getting around, greatly shapes the quality of your trip. How Kushiro Lets You Enjoy Port-Town Sunsets and the Wild Nature of Kushiro Shitsugen National Park at Once Kushiro is a port town facing the Pacific and, at the same time, the gateway to the inland Kushiro Shitsugen National Park that spreads out around it. A national park is a natural area that the Japanese government designates for the protection of nature. Drive north from the city center and you'll reach the Kushiro Wetland, known as Japan's largest wetland. The Kushiro Wetland is a vast expanse of sweeping reed beds, meandering rivers, and rich birdlife. Photo: The Kushiro Wetland enjoyed on foot along a boardwalk surrounded by greenery. Beyond the views, you can feel nature up close on a walk. This wetland was also the first in Japan to be registered under the Ramsar Convention, back in the 1980s. The Ramsar Convention is an international agreement aimed at protecting wetlands of global importance. In other words, the Kushiro Wetland is both a tourist destination and an environment recognized internationally for its conservation value. Because the wetland's main observatories and walking spots are also scattered within about an hour's reach, you can easily plan an itinerary that goes from a walk around town out into the wilderness, then back into town to enjoy the port-town evening. Why the Kushiro Prince Hotel Is a Convenient Base for Both City Strolls and Out-of-Town Sightseeing The Kushiro Prince Hotel stands in the heart of the city center, about a 10-minute walk from JR Kushiro Station and close to Nusamai Bridge, which spans the Kushiro River. If you have a lot of luggage, it's just a few minutes by taxi from the station. Port-town spots such as Washo Market and Fisherman's Wharf MOO are within walking distance, and because it's easy to get out onto the main roads, the location offers relatively easy access for a drive out toward the Kushiro Wetland as well.It's an easy base to get around from whether you arrive by rail, by airport shuttle bus, or by car, so even on a first visit to Kushiro you can tour the sights efficiently.As for the gateway by air, Tancho Kushiro Airport is about 1 hour 40 minutes by plane from Tokyo (Haneda). Visitors coming from overseas commonly connect to a domestic flight at Tokyo or Sapporo (New Chitose Airport). From the airport to central Kushiro, you can travel by airport shuttle bus or taxi. If you're heading to the hotel, it helps to check the bus stop and travel time in advance. Watching Kushiro's Sunset from Your Room: Why Stay at the Kushiro Prince Hotel On a trip to Kushiro, the scene many people name as "unforgettable" is the sky at dusk. Ranked alongside Bali (Indonesia) and Manila (the Philippines) among the world's three great sunsets, Kushiro's evening view is a sight unique to the town, where the Pacific, the Kushiro River, and the lights of the port town merge into a single panorama. Since you've come all this way, you'll want to do more than just glance at it: You’ll want to make it a highlight of your stay. What Sunset Views Can You Enjoy from the High-Floor Twin and Double Rooms? For those who want to make the most of the sunset, the high floors on levels 15–16 are recommended.From a high-floor twin room, on clear days you can enjoy Kushiro's sunset, said to be one of the world's three great sunsets, right from your room. (0:17) Photo: A high-floor twin room. The sunset spreads out beyond the window, and on clear days you can enjoy one of the "world's three great sunsets" from your room. Likewise, the high-floor double bedroom is fitted with a king-size bed, so you can lie back near a window overlooking the Pacific and savor the sky as it shifts from orange to crimson and then to a purplish indigo as the sun sinks. Photo: A high-floor double bedroom with sweeping views of the Pacific. Savor the changing sky from the window beside the king-size bed. Being able to spend time in "a room made for taking in the view" is something only the tallest hotel in Kushiro can offer. Sitting by the window with a cup of coffee and gazing at the sky makes for a quintessentially Kushiro way to pass the time. Kushiro's Sunset from Nusamai Bridge: A Scenic Spot Within Walking Distance of the Hotel Nusamai Bridge, which crosses the mouth of the Kushiro River, is a symbol of Kushiro and an especially popular spot for photographing the sunset. Ranked alongside Sapporo's Toyohira Bridge and Asahikawa's Asahibashi Bridge as one of "Hokkaido's three great bridges," it's a historic bridge representative of Hokkaido, and the bronze statues of women at its four corners symbolizing spring, summer, autumn, and winter were each created by a different sculptor. At dusk, the silhouettes of these statues at the bridge's four corners rise against a sky tinged red, and the bridge is beloved as one of Kushiro's signature photo spots. (0:49) Photo: The retro bridge lamp of Nusamai Bridge rises as a silhouette against the sun setting on the horizon. Since it's within walking distance of the Kushiro Prince Hotel, a classic way to enjoy it is to stroll to the bridge with your camera once evening comes and watch the sunset up close. After the sun sets, you can head back to the hotel and spend time watching the town fade into darkness from your guest-room window, or savor the view from the top-floor restaurant on the 17th floor. Being able to enjoy the same sunset from two perspectives, outdoors and indoors, is a benefit unique to staying in the heart of the city center. When Is Kushiro's Sunset at Its Best? The Autumn Equinox (Around September 23) and Fall Highlights Kushiro's sunset can be enjoyed year-round, but it's especially striking in the period from around the autumnal equinox in late September into the fall. During this time the sun tends to set in line with the Kushiro River, so when you look out from around Nusamai Bridge, it becomes easier to photograph the sun appearing to drop toward the center of the river.In autumn in particular, the air is clear and you can see far into the distance, so the outline of the setting sun stands out sharply. In the 30 minutes or so after sunset, the sky shifts one after another to red, orange, purple, and indigo. If you're aiming for the kind of striking Kushiro sunset you see on social media, a clear day in September or October is when it photographs in the most vivid colors.Autumn in Kushiro runs from around September to October, with temperatures of roughly 6°C to 18°C. Since mornings and evenings get chilly, you'll be comfortable with layers you can add to, plus a light outer layer. Photo: Kushiro's townscape and port seen from high up. As the sun sets, the sky turns red and orange. City Spots to Enjoy Around the Kushiro Prince Hotel: A Guide to Strolling the Port Town The area around the Kushiro Prince Hotel is one where the representative spots of the port town of Kushiro are gathered within walking distance. Just by walking with a map in hand, you can efficiently visit quintessential Kushiro places: the sea, the market, the bridge, and the shopping street. Even on a day with limited time, such as your arrival or departure day, it's a convenient location for taking in the atmosphere of the town. What Can You Enjoy at Fisherman's Wharf MOO? The Charms of a Waterfront Stroll About an 8-minute walk from the hotel. Right by Nusamai Bridge, on the bank at the mouth of the Kushiro River, stands Fisherman's Wharf MOO, a complex commercial facility representing Kushiro's waterfront. Here you can enjoy Kushiro's cuisine and the atmosphere of the port town all in one place: shops selling local sake and seafood souvenirs, the "Minato no Yatai" food stalls where you can dine, and the outdoor "Ganpeki Robata," open typically from the third Friday of May to the end of October, where you can grill seafood and other ingredients yourself on the quayside. Photo: Fisherman's Wharf MOO on the bank at the mouth of the Kushiro River. A complex commercial facility representing the port town's waterfront. If you walk along the riverside deck after shopping, fishing boats and the bridge come into view, and you can enjoy the scenery along the river. Since it's an easy distance to drop by between sightseeing stops, it's a place that fits naturally into a first-day stroll around town as well as last-day souvenir shopping. What Is Washo Market's Katte-don? A Kushiro Classic Worth a Stop During Your Stay A few minutes' walk from JR Kushiro Station and reachable on foot from the Kushiro Prince Hotel as well, Kushiro's Washo Market is a long-established market counted alongside Hakodate Morning Market and Sapporo Nijo Market as one of "Hokkaido's three great markets." (0:30) Photo: Kushiro's Washo Market, one of Hokkaido's three great markets. Enjoy strolling the market while peering into the fresh-fish cases. Here, the one experience you'll want to try is Kushiro's specialty, the "Katte-don." First you buy a bowl of plain white rice, then go around the shops in the market buying small portions of your favorite seafood toppings and placing them on your own bowl. You pay separately for the rice and for each topping. Since some shops mainly take cash, it's reassuring to have a little cash on hand. The process of choosing and piling on your favorite ingredients from among sea urchin, salmon roe, salmon, scallops and crab to build your own seafood rice bowl becomes a memory of the trip. If you're not fond of raw fish, you can also choose grilled fish, crab, egg, and the like. Photo: Katte-don toppings lined up at Washo Market. Choose your favorite ingredients, such as sea urchin and octopus, to build your own seafood rice bowl. The experience of getting in touch with local flavors amid the market's bustle is highly popular with international travelers, too, and it's beloved as a go-to spot where visitors from overseas can feel Japan's market culture firsthand. Robatayaki, Zangi and Spakatsu: How to Enjoy Kushiro-Born Dishes on an Evening Stroll Kushiro has a strong image of fresh seafood, but the evening pleasures don't stop there. "Robatayaki," now spread nationwide, is a food culture of grilling seafood and vegetables near a charcoal fire and savoring them. Kushiro is said to be its birthplace, with a history dating back to the 1950s. Sitting around the charcoal fire and enjoying atka mackerel (hokke), Pacific saury, scallops, and "tsubu-yaki", whelks grilled boldly in their shells, is an evening pleasure unique to a port town. (0:24) Photo: Robatayaki, said to have originated in Kushiro. A port-town evening savoring grilled fish and local sake around a charcoal fire. "Zangi" is fried chicken (Japanese fried chicken) that originated in Hokkaido, distinguished by a soy-sauce-based marinade thoroughly soaked in before frying. Compared with ordinary fried chicken, the flavor is richer and the coating thicker, for a quintessential Hokkaido style. Crisp and fragrant on the outside, juicy inside, with a robust soy-sauce flavor. Kushiro is said to be its birthplace, and it pairs well with both rice and drinks. What's more, "Spakatsu", spaghetti topped with a pork cutlet and smothered in piping-hot meat sauce, is a soul food of Kushiro locals that originated at the long-established Western-style restaurant "Izumiya." Served on a sizzling iron plate and generously portioned, it's a local Kushiro take on Western food. The dish’s combination of noodles, meat and sauce has been loved by locals across generations. In the lively district around the Kushiro Prince Hotel, there are restaurants serving these local Kushiro dishes within walking distance. Try them as part of your evening stroll. How to Enjoy the Wild Nature of Kushiro Wetland: Expanding Your Sightseeing from the Kushiro Prince Hotel After enjoying a stroll around the port town, use the Kushiro Prince Hotel as your base and head out to the kind of vast nature that only Kushiro can offer. In Kushiro Shitsugen National Park, known as Japan's largest wetland, the main spots are scattered around 30 minutes by car from the hotel. Even as a day trip from the hotel, leaving the hotel in the morning and returning by evening to enjoy the sunset, there's plenty to savor. What Does Car Sharing from the Hotel Change? A Handy Way to Explore the Kushiro Area Freely One reason the Kushiro Prince Hotel is so convenient as a base for wetland sightseeing is the "TOYOTA SHARE" car-sharing service available right at the hotel. If you complete the app registration in advance, you can set off directly from the hotel without having to travel to a rental-car outlet by the station. If you live overseas and want to use it, please check the conditions for app registration, accepted credit cards, and an international driving permit in advance.Car Share is a short-term rental service that lets you borrow a registered car only for the time you need. Because you can rent in 15-minute units, you can use it in a flexible way that suits your preferences, such as only using a car only on the day you go to the wetland, and going car-free on the days you walk around town. Since you can naturally combine strolling the city center on foot with sightseeing in the outskirts by car, it broadens the range of model courses for Kushiro sightseeing.If you're visiting from overseas and plan to drive in Japan, the required documents differ depending on your nationality and the country that issued your license. Before departure, be sure to check the documents needed to drive in Japan, such as an International Driving Permit (IDP). Japan, like the UK and Australia, drives on the left, so visitors from countries that drive on the right should take care. In rural areas there are roads with few streetlights and roads where wild animals may dart out, so caution is needed when driving at night. In the winter period from around November to March, snow and icy road surfaces can make for snowy roads. Even on days with little snow, the road surface may be frozen, so caution is especially needed in the early morning and evening. To be safe, choose a vehicle fitted with winter studless tires (tires made for snowy and icy roads) or check with each rental-car company in advance. What Can You See from the Kushiro City Wetland Observatory? A Place to Sense the Scale of Japan's Largest Wetland If you're encountering the wetland for the first time, the first place to visit is the Kushiro City Wetland Observatory. If you go by public transport, services are limited, so check the timetable in advance or consider using a taxi or rental car. From the rooftop viewing area of the building, you can take in the wetland stretching all the way to the horizon. Kushiro Shitsugen National Park covers about 28,000 hectares, roughly 280 square kilometers. That's close to half the area of Tokyo's 23 wards, and only when you stand and look out over it do you truly grasp its size. Photo: The viewing deck of the Kushiro City Wetland Observatory. Take in Japan's largest wetland stretching to the horizon in a single sweep. Inside the facility there are also exhibits that make it easy to learn about the wetland's ecosystem, which changes how you'll view the wetland you're about to walk. For anyone who thinks, "First I want to get a sense of the whole picture," it's an ideal point of entry. What Can You Do at Hosooka Observatory and the Onnenai Boardwalk? Enjoying the Wetland by View and on Foot Once you've grasped the overall picture at the wetland observatory, head next to the sightseeing points scattered around the wetland. Highlights include Hosooka Observatory, where you can take in the meandering Kushiro River and the vast wetland in one sweep; Kottaro Wetland Observatory, a peaceful viewpoint that sees relatively few visitors; and the Onnenai Boardwalk, where wooden walkways let you observe wetland plants and birds up close. If you want to enjoy the view in a short time, Hosooka Observatory is recommended; if you want to walk and observe nature, the Onnenai Boardwalk is the choice. Visit in comfortable walking shoes, and to be safe bring insect repellent in summer and warm clothing in spring and autumn.Whether you prefer panoramic views or walking through the wetland itself, Kushiro Wetland lets you choose the experience that best matches your mood and energy level. Combine viewpoints and walking, and even within the same wetland the scenery you see and the sounds you hear will change. The appeal is that with Car Share, you can tour multiple spots efficiently in a single day. What Kind of Journey Are the Kushiro Shitsugen Norokko Train and Canoeing? Deeper Ways to Enjoy the Wetland The "Kushiro Shitsugen Norokko Train," which you can board at JR Kushiro Station about a 10-minute walk from the Kushiro Prince Hotel, is recommended for those who want to experience the wetland in greater depth. It's a sightseeing train with a trolley-car feel, a seasonal service connecting Kushiro Station and Toro Station from spring to autumn. Since operating days are limited, check the running days and the availability of reserved seats on the official JR Hokkaido website. As the train slowly moves through the landscape you can enjoy the wetland scenery up close. Photo: The trolley-style sightseeing train "Kushiro Shitsugen Norokko Train" running through the green wetland (the second-generation train is scheduled to retire in 2026). Note that the current second-generation Kushiro Shitsugen Norokko Train is scheduled to retire after the 2026 season due to the age of its carriages, so 2026 is the last year you can experience the second-generation train in operation. If you're planning to ride, we recommend booking early during the operating period from late April to early October.* In 2026 it is scheduled to run on set days from April 25 to October 4, and as all seats are reserved, it's reassuring to confirm the running days and seat availability before boarding. Operating information may change, so please check JR Hokkaido's latest official announcements. Canoeing down the Kushiro River is also popular. There are guided tours for beginners, and it's reassuring to confirm whether English support is available when you book. From a low vantage point right at the water's surface, you can enjoy up close, by canoe, the sights and sounds you can't encounter on foot or by car: the sky you look up at, the red-crowned cranes and Ezo sika deer on the riverbanks, and the sound of the wind crossing the reed beds. Drifting quietly with the current is one of the experiences unique to Kushiro Wetland. What Is a Stay at the Kushiro Prince Hotel Like? Special Time in the Rooms, Dining and Facilities The appeal of the Kushiro Prince Hotel doesn't stop at its convenience as a sightseeing base. Even the time after you return from sightseeing is full of thoughtful touches that let you feel Kushiro's character. What Guest Rooms Does the Kushiro Prince Hotel Have? The Difference Between the Standard Floors and the High Floors The Kushiro Prince Hotel's guest rooms are divided into two groups: the "Standard Floors" on levels 6–14, and the "High Floors" on levels 15–16. What's distinctive about this hotel is that how you choose changes depending on the purpose of your trip and who you're traveling with. The Standard Floors have three types: Single, Twin, and a Family room, which accommodates up to four guests. The Single room is a calm space for business trips and solo travel, the Twin is a versatile, standard room, and the Family room can accommodate up to four guests, making it well suited to family and group travel. They're often chosen by those who want to enjoy their stay at a more modest price while taking in Kushiro's townscape and the views of the port. Photo: A Standard Floor guest room on levels 6–14. Stay at a reasonable price while taking in Kushiro's townscape and port. The High Floors on levels 15–16 are the rooms chosen by those seeking the view. The high-floor twin room is a popular type from which you can gaze at Kushiro's sunset, called one of the "world's three great sunsets", from your room on clear days. The single room faces the Kushiro city center, where you can take in the morning sun and the night view. The double bedroom is fitted with a king-size bed, a spacious room with sweeping views of the Pacific. For those wishing for something still more luxurious, there is the 48.43 m² Suite room, which offers an especially open view. For those who want to savor the sunset from their room, the high-floor Twin or Double bedroom; for families who want to spread out, the Family room on the Standard Floors, or the suite overlooking the Pacific for special occasions. When booking, it's reassuring to check conditions such as "high floor" or "view specified." The flexibility to choose to match the purpose of your trip is one reason there are so many repeat guests. What Kind of Restaurant Is Top of Kushiro? Dining with Views of the City and the Pacific The observation restaurant "Top of Kushiro" on the 17th floor is an observation restaurant where you can dine while taking in the scenery from the highest point in Kushiro. From its fully glass-walled space, you can see far into the distance: the Kushiro River, the port-town streets, and further out to the Pacific, and the view you enjoy changes depending on where you sit. Photo: The 17th-floor observation restaurant "Top of Kushiro." Take in Kushiro's townscape bathed in sunset through the fully glass-walled windows. Lunchtime offers bright hours against the backdrop of the port view, while dinnertime is a meal with the town lights after sunset. The dynamic atmosphere changes greatly with the hour you visit, which is another of its hallmarks. As a place to spend an anniversary dinner or the meal that rounds off a trip, it's chosen by many travelers, couples, and families. Photo: A Western-style course savored at "Top of Kushiro." Enjoy colorful appetizers and main dishes along with a magnificent view. There is also a private room called "SKYROOM" within the restaurant, which can be reserved exclusively for family celebrations and small gatherings. Advance reservation may be required to use it. In a space where you can have the 17th-floor view all to yourself, it's also recommended for those who want to make a special day memorable. Can Breakfast Change the Mood of Your Day? Why Mornings at the Kushiro Prince Hotel Enrich Your Trip Breakfast on a trip is an important time that sets the rhythm of the day ahead. Breakfast at the Kushiro Prince Hotel is normally served as a buffet on the top floor at "Top of Kushiro." A menu unique to a port town is laid out, generously incorporating ingredients from Hokkaido and Kushiro. (0:40) Photo: A morning moment at "Top of Kushiro" overlooking the Pacific. Start your day with a view of the sea. One especially popular item is the "Umi no Sachi Don," a seafood rice bowl where you pile as much of the sea's bounty as you like onto your rice. It's a welcome dish that lets you savor the Katte-don style familiar from Washo Market right at the hotel, first thing in the morning. There's also a rich lineup of distinctive dishes that make the most of Eastern Hokkaido ingredients: the "Nemuro Strait Kelp Soy Sauce Ramen," made with broth from Nemuro Strait kelp; penne with a meat sauce made from Ezo deer, a Japanese game meat; and seafood soup curry. And the classic breakfast dishes are all there too, with grilled fish such as sockeye salmon and atka mackerel (hokke), scrambled eggs finished with Hokkaido eggs and milk, rice made with Hokkaido-grown "Nanatsuboshi" (one of Hokkaido's flagship brand-rice varieties), and miso soup made with Hokkaido miso, a lineup that caters to fans of both Japanese and Western breakfasts. If you have allergies or dietary restrictions, please check with the hotel in advance. Photo: A breakfast buffet making the most of Hokkaido and Kushiro ingredients. A wide variety of dishes, starting with the Umi no Sachi Don seafood bowl. To finish, what you'll want to enjoy is a lineup of dairy products befitting Hokkaido, acclaimed as Japan’s most renowned center of dairy production. You can savor local ingredients to the full from morning. You can enjoy a tasting comparison of "Toyotomi Milk" and "Tokachi Karoyaka Shibori," Hokkaido milk pudding, yogurt, and more. After your meal, coffee in hand, it's also nice to use the time to plan your day, deciding whether to head out to the wetland or go for a walk through the market.* Breakfast is basically a buffet, but depending on reservation conditions it may be served as a set meal. The menu may change depending on procurement. How to Make the Most of Hotel Life with the Fitness Room, Rental Bikes and On-Site Facilities The Kushiro Prince Hotel has on-site facilities that make it easy to spend even the hours when you're not out sightseeing.Worth noting is the fitness room that opened in May 2026. Equipped with cardio machines, strength-training equipment, and free weights, it's well suited for keeping up your exercise routine during a business trip or refreshing yourself while traveling. Newly built under the concept of "a space where the stay itself contributes to your health," it's a welcome point for those on long stays, too. Photo: The fitness room that opened in May 2026. Cardio machines and strength-training equipment are set up by the windows. For those who want to enjoy strolling the town more actively, rental bikes (eBike mini-velo type) are also available. In Japan, bicycles also keep to the left as a rule. Turn on your lights at night and ride with care for pedestrians. As compact electric-assist bicycles, they make even uphill stretches easier to climb, letting you tour Kushiro's townscape and seaside over a wider range than on foot. Rental bikes are available only during the period from April to November. Photo: A rental bike (eBike mini-velo type) riding along the seaside. With electric assist, you can tour a wide area of Kushiro's town. In addition, the convenience shop on the 1st floor comes in handy when you need a drink, a snack, or something you forgot; and because there's a coin laundry, you can travel with minimal luggage even on a stay spanning several days. A business corner is also provided, making it an environment well suited to a workation or business trip. A strength of the Kushiro Prince Hotel is that it has a full set of facilities to handle not only use as a sightseeing base but also long stays. Even when you're taking a break from sightseeing, the hotel provides a comfortable place to relax. From Sunset to the Morning Sea: Can You Enjoy Scenery That Changes by the Hour? The Value of a Stay at the Kushiro Prince Hotel The Kushiro Prince Hotel is plenty enjoyable even for a single night, but it's also a hotel whose appeal grows all the more with two or more consecutive nights. The reason is that Kushiro's scenery changes its expression depending on the time of day and the weather. Even the view from the same high-floor window brings one scene after another that you can't take in over a single night's stay: the calm sea in the morning, the deep-blue Pacific at midday, the sunset known as one of the world's three great sunsets in the evening, the town lights at night, and the misty port the next morning. In winter especially, the town and the sea turn into a snowy landscape, so you can enjoy an expression completely different from summer or autumn. Since you're staying at the Kushiro Prince Hotel, do take your time over Kushiro's scenery with a stay of two or more nights. Does the Way You Enjoy the Kushiro Prince Hotel Change by Season? Sightseeing and Hotel Appeal Through the Year Each of Kushiro's four seasons has a different pleasure. Spring brings refreshing air free from the woes of pollen; summer brings the crisp, cool climate of a true summer escape; autumn brings sunsets that stand out under clear skies; and winter brings an encounter with red-crowned cranes, seen in only a limited number of places even in Japan. No matter how many times you visit, there's different scenery and a different experience. That's the fun of a stay in Kushiro. Photo: Two red-crowned cranes standing by the water. An encounter unique to Kushiro, which changes its expression with the seasons. Is Spring in Kushiro Low in Cedar and Cypress Pollen? Why It's Chosen as a Getaway During Pollen Season Spring in Japan is a season when many people suffer from hay fever, but Kushiro is known as an area with extremely little airborne cedar (Japanese cedar) and cypress (Japanese cypress) pollen. This is because there is hardly any of the planted cedar and cypress that drive pollen dispersal in Honshu, so the situation differs from Honshu, Japan's main island. Even across Hokkaido as a whole, the planted area of cedar is on a vastly smaller scale than in Honshu's major prefectures, and Kushiro is one of the areas there that is especially little affected by pollen dispersal.This characteristic has been taken up repeatedly in various media in recent years, and "spring Kushiro is comfortable for people with hay fever" has rapidly drawn attention as a theme. The number of people who choose Kushiro as a destination for "hifun", or pollen escape, spending the few weeks of pollen season in Hokkaido, has been steadily increasing in recent years.Freed from sneezing and itchy eyes, you can enjoy strolling the town and wetland sightseeing under clear air. A spring trip where you can take off your mask and breathe in deeply can be a welcome relief for those who suffer from pollen. The Kushiro Prince Hotel, which combines the convenience of the city center with rooms where you can relax, can flexibly accommodate everything from a short trip of a few days to a slightly longer, workation-style stay.Spring in Kushiro runs from around April to May, with temperatures of roughly 5°C to 13°C. Since mornings and evenings get chilly, you'll be comfortable pairing layers you can add to with a light outer layer. Why Is Summer Kushiro Popular as a Cool-Weather Retreat? Why the Hotel's Appeal Comes Alive on Longer Stays Summer in Kushiro often sees average midsummer temperatures of around 20°C even when Honshu is gripped by intense heat, making it an especially comfortable area within Hokkaido. From June to August, it's a climate cooler than Honshu, where you'll be glad to have long sleeves or a light layer during the day. Seeking out such an environment, in recent years not only short sightseeing trips but also a travel style of staying for one to two weeks while leisurely enjoying the town and nature has been increasing. The hotel has a coin laundry and a business corner, too, making it an environment well suited to longer stays.At the Kushiro Prince Hotel, long-stay plans are sometimes offered for summer cool-weather stays, such as a consecutive-night ECO plan limited to two or three nights, and a three-consecutive-night plan with "Minato-machi Coupons" usable at affiliated shops in the city. Greet a cool morning in a high-floor room overlooking the Pacific, tour the wetland and outskirts by Car Share during the day, and stroll the town on foot in the evening. In Kushiro, you can comfortably plan an itinerary built around the refreshingly cool climate. How to See Red-Crowned Cranes in Winter Kushiro: Enjoying a Trip Centered on Crane Watching and Photography Not to be missed in winter Kushiro is watching red-crowned cranes dance over the snowy fields. When observing, don't make loud noises, don't feed them, and watch over them while keeping your distance from designated spots. Observation points known to photography enthusiasts at home and abroad, such as Tsurumidai in Tsurui Village, the Akan International Crane Center, and the Tsurui-Ito Tancho Sanctuary, are scattered within day-trip range of the city center. Photo: Red-crowned cranes dancing with wings spread over a snowy field. A signature scene of winter in Eastern Hokkaido, popular with photography enthusiasts too. The red-crowned crane was at one point so reduced in number that it was thought to be extinct, but in 1924 it was rediscovered in the Kushiro Wetland. Thanks to subsequent local conservation efforts, the population has now recovered. In the early morning, the sight of red-crowned cranes, with their pure white bodies marked with black and red, descending onto a snowy field where steam rises is a signature highlight of winter in Eastern Hokkaido, drawing many who come not just to observe but to take serious photographs. On a winter early morning, crane watching centers on outdoor photography where it can drop below freezing, so having a comfortable place nearby to warm up can make all the difference. Winter in Kushiro runs from around November to March, when temperatures drop below freezing to roughly minus 8°C to minus 2°C. Head out with solid winter gear, such as warm clothing, gloves, and non-slip winter boots. For early-morning photography in particular, you may wait outdoors for long stretches, so it's reassuring to also have hand warmers and thermal innerwear. At the Kushiro Prince Hotel, after returning from photography you can rest in a high-floor room or enjoy the magnificent view at the top-floor restaurant, so even on a cold-season trip you can spend your time at ease. Depending on the period, winter-only plans and special services may also be arranged, so checking the latest accommodation plans before you visit will help you plan a more satisfying winter trip. Adding One More Day to Your Kushiro Trip? Side Trips That Expand Your Eastern Hokkaido Journey After enjoying sightseeing within Kushiro and your stay at the Kushiro Prince Hotel, if you have one more day to spare in your itinerary, there's also the option of venturing a little farther afield from the hotel. Because the Kushiro Prince Hotel lets you use Car Share with pickup and drop-off at the hotel, it's an easy base for a day-trip drive: leave in the morning, return by evening, and have dinner at the top-floor restaurant. Akkeshi Oysters and Winter Jewelry Ice: Scenery and Flavors Within a Day Trip from Kushiro About an hour's drive east of Kushiro, Akkeshi Town, facing the Pacific, is known as a renowned production area where you can enjoy oysters year-round. You can compare brands with distinct characters, such as "Kaki-emon" and "Maru-emon." Beyond raw oysters, you can enjoy them grilled or steamed, and at the roadside station "Akkeshi Gourmet Terminal Conchiglie" the appeal is being able to savor them charcoal-grilled. A roadside station (Michi-no-Eki / roadside station) is a rest facility you can casually drop by on a journey, where you can also enjoy local ingredients, souvenirs, and light meals. Photo: Akkeshi Town's brand oysters "Kaki-emon" and "Maru-emon." Large oysters in the shell that can be enjoyed year-round. Worth visiting only in the winter season is the "Jewelry Ice (Jewelry Ice)" that washes up on Otsu Beach in Toyokoro Town. It's a phenomenon in which blocks of ice that flow out from the Tokachi River are polished by the waves of the Pacific and wash up on the shore, transparent like jewels; the hours when the morning or evening sun shines through the ice are especially popular subjects for photography. As it's a natural phenomenon, the amount and condition you can see vary by the day you visit. It's a little distant, about two hours by car from Kushiro, but it's known as a spectacular sight unique to winter in Eastern Hokkaido. Photo: The winter-only "Jewelry Ice" on Otsu Beach in Toyokoro Town. Blocks of ice that glow like jewels as the morning sun shines through them. Both are within a round-trip day's reach using the Kushiro Prince Hotel as your base. By staying multiple nights and combining them with city sightseeing, you can enjoy your Kushiro trip even more deeply. Conclusion: How to Make the Most of Kushiro Sightseeing and a Hotel Stay: Why Choose the Kushiro Prince Hotel as Your Base A sunset that ranks among the world's three great sunsets, the vast Kushiro Wetland just a short drive away, Washo Market's Katte-don, and winter's red-crowned cranes. A great feature of a Kushiro trip is that you can savor each of these different charms in a single stay. As a base that lets you spend less time worrying about transportation and more time enjoying Kushiro, the Kushiro Prince Hotel has solid strengths. A central city-center location with easy access to Tancho Kushiro Airport, JR Kushiro Station, Nusamai Bridge, and Washo Market. High-floor twin rooms where you can enjoy one of the world's three great sunsets on clear days, and the views of the high floors overlooking the Pacific. Photo: The exterior of the Kushiro Prince Hotel standing out against the night town. A hotel where the stay itself becomes the purpose of the trip. The "Umi no Sachi Don" and a breakfast buffet that makes the most of Eastern Hokkaido ingredients. A fitness room, rental bikes, and a top-floor restaurant for the days you don't head out sightseeing. And Car Share that lets you venture out to the outskirts with pickup and drop-off at the hotel. Not a hotel for sightseeing, but a hotel where the stay itself can become the purpose of the trip. That is the Kushiro Prince Hotel. Supporting this kind of Kushiro stay are the hotel's staff. The Kushiro Prince Hotel staff who face guests every day say this: "In Kushiro, a summer retreat that stays cool even in summer, please spend some time enjoying the gentle breeze. The beautiful sunset viewed from your room will make your journey even more memorable. In this place, where in spring you can also spend your time comfortably as a pollen-escape destination, please do come and experience a stay that lets your heart unwind." On your next trip to Kushiro, why not see the unforgettable Kushiro sunset, viewed from your guest-room window, with your own eyes? Kushiro Prince Hotel: Essential Information Facility name Kushiro Prince Hotel Address 〒085-8581 北海道釧路市幸町7-1 Phone 0154-31-1111 Check-in 14:00 Check-out 11:00 Guest room floors 6–14F Standard Floors 15–16F High Floors Room types Single / Twin / Double / Suite / Forth On-site facilities 17F restaurant "Top of Kushiro" (with adjoining SKYROOM) Fitness room Convenience shop Coin laundry Business corner Rental bikes Car Share "TOYOTA SHARE" Access (Train) About a 10-minute walk from Kushiro Station on JR (Japan Railways), Japan's main railway Access (Car) About 30 minutes from Tancho Kushiro Airport under normal conditions Access (Bus) Take the Kushiro Airport Connection Bus and get off at "Kushiro Shiyakusho-mae (in front of the hotel)"; 1-minute walk (about 55 minutes) Parking Available (paid ) Official website https://www.princehotels.co.jp/kushiro Digital brochure https://ehsc.jp/pdf/2023kushirok7.pdf Accommodation plans https://www.princehotels.co.jp/kushiro/plan/all/ ※ Information is subject to change. Please check the official website for the latest details. ※ This article was written based on information as of June 2026, under the supervision of the Kushiro Prince Hotel staff. For the latest information on Kushiro Prince Hotel, please check COOL JAPAN VIDEOS' SNS. 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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

World Karate Champion, Ayano Nakamura This video shows an interview with world champion Ayano Nakamura, about karate. Approved as an official game of the 2020 Tokyo Olympics, karate is very popular internationally as a form of self-defense, mental training, and sport. Have you hear of the movie Karate Kid? If you recall, the story is about a boy who practices karate, and through that he grows as a person. Three entries were made for the blockbuster, and it captured the hearts of audiences all over the world with its themes of martial arts and spirit. Currently, there are about 70 million karate practitioners worldwide. This interview with Ayano Nakamura, winner of the 2017 Karate World Championships, introduces what karate is and what makes it appealing. What is Karate? Photo：Karate Karate is a Japanese martial art that focuses on using the hands and elbows for defense. Although there are various views on the origin of karate, it is rooted in an old Okinawan martial art called "te" (手, te) or "karate" (唐手, karate) which was popular among samurai in the Ryukyu Kingdom (present day Okinawa) as an art of self-defense. Later, it was blended with a Chinese martial art and the base for the karate we know today was formed. The martial art has adopted the three elements: spirit, technique, and physique. Karate has countless styles. The most famous ones are the four major styles of karate: Shotokan style, Goju style, Wado style, and Shito style) and the three major styles of Okinawan karate (Goju style, Uechi style, and Kobayashi style). Although the names of the kata (form of movement, posture, etc. in martial arts) are the same, each school has its own characteristics. At countless gyms and schools of karate throughout Japan, many people are practicing karate to learn about the Japanese spirit and manners as well. Two Types of Sports Karate: Kata and Kumite Sports karate has two types: kata and kumite. In kata, practitioners compete on precision and speed, while in kumite, practitioners compete on how precisely they can hit a certain body part of the opponent. Basic Kata of Karate Photo：Karate Ayano Nakamura mastered Shotokan style karate which has 25 types of kata. As the phrase goes "karate is not for attacking" every kata starts with a block instead of an attack. Trainees master basic kata such as punches, kicks, and blocks first, then move on to more complicated kata. Well-known kata are "Bassaidai," "Kankudai," "Enbi," and "Jion" etc. What Can You Learn From Karate? Learning techniques is of course important in karate. However, observing rules always comes first in the martial art. As "karate is not for attacking" implies, controlling your techniques is more important than anything else in karate. Summary of Karate Source :YouTube screenshot In this interview, Ayano Nakamura describes the traditional Japanese culture "Karate." She focuses more on the mental aspect of karate, manners, etc., rather than the aspect of karate as a martial art. Karate gives more importance what it means to be a fighter, such as making eye contact while talking and greeting. To be strong is one of the ultimate goals of martial arts. Ayano Nakamura hopes, however, that everyone develops a tender heart to care for others, and develops the courage to overcome obstacles through karate. In this video, Ayano Nakamura explains what makes karate attractive and demonstrates her karate techniques. Check out her sharp, impressive movements and powerful will!