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

Video Introduction of Yume no Tsuribashi in Sumata Gorge This video, titled "Sumata Gorge｜Yume no Tsuribashi with GoPro [4K]" (寸又峡 夢の吊り橋 with GoPro[4K]), was uploaded by "NOMAD LIFE." It introduces Yume no Tsuribashi, a famous tourist attraction in Shizuoka, Japan. Yume no Tsuribashi - A Bucket List Destination in Shizuoka, Japan Photo：Sumata Gorge, Kawanehon, Shizuoka Located in Kawanehon, Shizuoka lies Yume no Tsuribashi (Dream Suspension Bridge), a suspension bridge that should be on anyone's bucket list. It is one of the most famous sightseeing spots in Japan, and crossing the suspension bridge over the milky blue lake is truly an unforgettable experience. Originally, Yume no Tsuribashi at Sumata Gorge was used as a path for villagers and lumberjacks to come and go. The forestry industry was thriving in the area around Sumata Gorge, and it's said that there were many villages in the area. Nowadays, it attracts attention not as a road for daily life but as a tourist attraction, and many people visit the area every year. With a total length of 90 meters and a height of 8 meters, this suspension bridge is truly one of dreams! The deck, made of wooden planks, has many gaps and no side walls, making it a thrilling suspension bridge. Due to weight restrictions, only 10 people can cross the bridge at a time. Furthermore, during the tourist season, the bridge is restricted to one-way traffic. Check out the video below to see how the thrilling Yume no Tsuribashi is crossed. [Video] 1:44 - Crossing Yume no Tsuribashi Cherry Blossoms, Autumn Leaves, and Other Seasonal Attractions and Activities to Enjoy Near Yume no Tsuribashi Photo：Sumata Gorge, Kawanehon, Shizuoka The area around Yume no Tsuribashi is also popular as a spot to enjoy the seasons, including cherry blossoms and autumn leaves. If you take a steam locomotive from Sumata Gorge to the Oi River, you can see approximately 280 Someiyoshino cherry trees from late March to early April each year. In addition, from October to November, when the beautiful autumn colors are in season, visitors can enjoy viewing the autumn foliage from Yume no Tsuribashi in Sumata Gorge. The area around Sumata Gorge is an area where one can enjoy the great outdoors to the fullest. Fishing and trekking, as well as campgrounds, make this a spot full of attractions for outdoors enthusiasts. Hiking and driving courses are well maintained and can be enjoyed by families, couples, and friends. You can also buy cute souvenirs at the stylish retro café Seiko Udoku Village (晴耕雨読village), which offers a great view of Okuoikojo Station. You can also have a delicious lunch at café Uemaru or Suikoen. One of the attractions of this area is that you can enjoy a one-day trip to Sumatakyo Onsen. The area is lined with popular inns, where you can enjoy local delicacies harvested from the surrounding mountains for dinner. Things to Be Aware of When Visiting Yume no Tsuribashi Photo：Sumata Gorge, Kawanehon, Shizuoka Yume no Tsuribashi in Sumata Gorge is one of the most famous sightseeing spots in Japan. Many tourists visit from all over Japan to catch a glimpse of the fantastic atmosphere. However, there are a few things you should know in advance. Because Yume no Tsuribashi is located deep in the mountains, entry is prohibited after sunset. Furthermore, the entire tour of the Sumata Gorge Promenade Course takes approximately 60 to 80 minutes, so visitors should allow plenty of time for this tour. In addition, be sure to wear appropriate clothing. The path to Yume no Tsuribashi has many steep slopes and stairs, and is made up of gravel. Therefore, it's recommended that you wear comfortable sneakers. Yume no Tsuribashi is also a very popular spot for taking Instagram photos in Japan due to its fantastic scenery. However, the bridge can be somewhat wobbly, and some people accidentally drop their smartphones or cameras while getting absorbed in taking pictures. Such an accident can really kill the mood, so please be careful. Besides that, it's recommended that visitors check the weather forecast in advance as roads may be closed on days when the weather is bad. [Video] 2:24 - Steep stairs Summary of Yume no Tsuribashi Photo：Sumata Gorge, Kawanehon, Shizuoka In this article we introduced Yume no Tsuribashi, a famous tourist attraction in Shizuoka's Sumata Gorge that should be on any bucket list. Visitors can enjoy the scenery of Japan's four seasons here, with cherry blossoms in spring, autumn leaves in fall, snow in winter, and beautiful greenery in the summer. It's a popular tourist attraction where you can really experience nature in Japan. The view from Yume no Tsuribashi is truly spectacular! It attracts many visitors. There are inns, campgrounds, and hot springs in the vicinity as well, so be sure to enjoy it however you like. To get to Yume no Tsuribashi, first take the Shimada Kanaya IC to the parking lot of Sumatakyo Onsen (about 90 minutes). From there, it's a 40-minute walk from the parking lot to Yume no Tsuribashi. Although it takes some time to get there, it usually passes quickly thanks to the beauty of the surrounding nature of Sumata Gorge. Be sure to check out the video to see the fantastical scenery of Yume no Tsuribashi! 【TripAdvisor】Sumata Gorge https://www.tripadvisor.jp/Attraction_Review-g1121220-d1313698-Reviews-Sumatakyo_Valley-Kawanehon_cho_Haibara_gun_Shizuoka_Prefecture_Tokai_Chubu.html

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

Japan's Camping Manners Camping is a leisure activity that allows people of all ages to enjoy a priceless time in nature. Japan is currently experiencing a camping boom. However, the sad reality is that some campgrounds have closed down due to lack of good manners, such as campers not picking up their trash. In this article, we'll go over Japanese camping manners to be careful of. Camping Manners Video Introduction This video, titled "20 Camping Manners for Beginners and New Campers Alike! [How to Get Started Camping: Camping Manners]" (キャンプ初心者さん、これからキャンプを始める方に伝えたいキャンプマナー20選 嫌だ！〜こんなキャンパー〜【キャンプのはじめかた：キャンプマナー編】), was uploaded by "Camp Lab" (キャンプ研究所). The video introduces useful camping etiquette, and is recommended for those who are just starting to enjoy outdoor activities, such as camping, as well as experienced campers. 20 Camping Manners to Know When Camping in Japan Photo：Camping manners Although manners vary from country to country and campground to campground many of these are useful no matter where you're camping. There's no one better to learn from than an advanced camper who's been doing it for years, someone who has experienced bad camping manners themself. Let's take a look at these 20 camping manners to keep in mind when camping in Japan! 1. Choose a Campsite After Checking In It's bad camping etiquette to have your friend or other campers that you came with hold a site for you while you check in. It's standard etiquette that you should only choose a campsite after you finish checking in to the campground. [Video] 1:16 - Choosing a Campsite 2. Set Your Tent Up Away From Other Campers Photo：A campground Setting up a tent right next to an already pitched tent is bad manners, especially when the site is large and there are many other places to set up a tent. Moreover, setting up a tent in such a place may spoil the scenery for other campers. When choosing a place to set up your tent, you need to consider the scenery of the tents that are already set up, as to not obstruct their view. [Video] 1:36 - Setting Up Your Tent 3. Avoid Cutting Through Other Campsites Care should also be taken to avoid entering other plots. While it's OK if you just cut a corner through a campsite, you should avoid doing it too frequently and avoid crossing through the middle of a campsite to avoid disturbing other campers. [Video] 1:56 - Other Campers' Plots 4. Avoid Taking Up Too Much Space It's also a violation of camping etiquette to take up too much space in a free site. This is a common sight at group campsites, where group tents are set up so far apart that other campers cannot easily fit in between them and will have to find other places to pitch their tents. On busy days, it can be difficult to find a place to pitch your tent. When setting up your tent, please be sure to take into consideration the crowded conditions, and make sure that the distance between tents is the same as other campers. [Video] 2:19 - Avoid Taking Up Too Much Space 5. Avoid Late Night Setups and Early Morning Takedowns Photo：A campground at morning Any activity that interferes with other campers' peaceful sleep late at night or early in the morning is also taboo. Driving stakes into the ground while others are sleeping can be disturbing. Even if you unintentionally arrive at the campground late at night, consider the time before loudly setting up. [Video] 2:56 - Late Night Setups/Early Morning Takedowns 6. Don't Leave Children Unattended Do not leave small children unattended. Campsites can be dangerous places, and they could get into some serious trouble. You wouldn't want to see them get seriously injured or badly burned by a campfire or other fire because you lost sight of them. [Video] 3:28 - Camping With Children 7. Be Careful When Playing With Flying Objects, Such as Balls, Frisbees, Drones, Etc. Photo：A drone Playing with flying objects is another thing to be careful of. When playing with balls, frisbees, drones, etc., you should always be careful to make sure that no one is around. Be sure to play in designated areas. You wouldn't like it if someone else's frisbee kept flying into your campsite, right? [Video] 4:16 - Flying Toys 8. Avoid Trouble With Your Kids At campsites, in order to avoid trouble, parents may need to find a place for their children to play in advance, or if the campsite does not have an open space, you might need to take measures to avoid your children from being scolded, such as not bringing play equipment that is unsuitable for that location (i.e., flying toys in small areas). [Video] 5:13 - Be Aware of Your Children 9. Avoid Causing Noise Pollution Noise is a common cause of trouble, as loud noises can be annoying. Adjust the volume when enjoying music or movies, and be considerate of the time of day. Remember that the campground is a public place. [Video] 5:40 - Noise Pollution 10. Be Careful When Consuming Alcohol Photo：Enjoying drinks while camping The video also touches on drinking manners. Don't mistake the campground for a bar/izakaya and overdo it. It's important to be aware of the time of day, and to be aware that you may disturb other campers while they're sleeping. Video] 6:35 - Manners for Consuming Alcohol 11. Keep the Cooking Area Clean It's bad camping manners to make a mess in the cooking area. Leaving food scraps and other debris in the cooking area drains is disrespectful to other campers. When washing cooking utensils, bring detergent, sponges, and plastic bags. [Video] 7:22 - Keeping the Cooking Area Clean 12. Be Careful of Sparks From Campfires Photo：A campfire When enjoying a campfire, be careful of sparks. Sparks can fly not only on your tent, but also to neighboring campers' tents and other gear. Sparks may scorch your tent or other items, so please be careful. [Video] 8:07 - Campfire Sparks 13. Open Flame Cooking Is Not Allowed at All Campgrounds Don't perform open flame cooking in an area where open flame cooking is prohibited. It's a violation of both manners and rules. It may even lead to a wildfire in some places. [Video] 9:07 - Check if Open Flame Cooking Is Allowed 14. Don't Burn Garbage in Campfires Burning garbage in a campfire is another violation of camping manners. Burning trash creates unwanted smoke and odors. [Video] 9:44 - Don't Burn Garbage in Campfires 15. Be Respectful Even When Staying in a Car Photo：Sleeping in a car Be careful not to leave the engine running overnight when staying in a car. The noise can disturb other campers. Overnight stays in a car should be done in a parking lot. [Video] 10:18 - Manners for Overnight Stays in a Car 16. Manners Regarding Pets The video touches on manners regarding pets as well. It's bad manners to release pets without a leash. Pets can bite other campers and cause major problems. [Video] 11:04 - Pet Manners 17. Be Aware of Your Surroundings When Setting off Fireworks Do not disturb others with fireworks. Sparks may fly and scorch tents and other objects. [Video] 11:56 - Fireworks Manners 18. Separate Garbage Properly Photo：Camping manners In Japan trash is separated by type. Be sure to properly separate trash, even at campsites. [Video] 12:26 - Separating Trash 19. Leave Your Campsite Cleaner Than It Was When You Got There It's also bad manners to leave your campsite messy when you're finished camping. Make sure you don't leave behind any garbage or charcoal. Try to leave your campsite cleaner than it was when you arrived. [Video] 12:48 - Clean Your Campsite 20. Everyone Has Their Own Way of Enjoying Camping Everyone enjoys camping in their own way. It's also bad manners to impose your own values on other people. [Video] 13:12 - Camping Is Different for Everyone Enjoy Camping in Japan With Proper Manners! When camping, it's important to have good manners as well as to follow the rules of the campground. It's also important to gather information about prohibited items and equipment at the campground in advance. Trouble can be caused by violations of manners regarding garbage disposal, illegal dumping, noise in common spaces, and many other factors. When camping in Japan, it's important to respect nature, have good manners, keep other campers in mind to avoid any problems.

Lake Biwa - Japan's Largest Lake This is the video, titled "Rainbow, Beautiful SHIGA — Biwa Lake, Shiga," introduces the famous tourist spot Lake Biwa, the largest freshwater lake in Japan, located in Shiga prefecture (滋賀県). The video was produced by "Rainbow, Beautiful, SHIGA — Shiga, Lake Biwa" (虹色Beautiful,SHIGAー滋賀・びわ湖). Lake Biwa in Otsu City (大津市), Shiga, in Japan's Kansai region, is the largest lake in Japan, with a surface area of 669.26 km² and a water storage capacity of 27.5 km³. It takes up approximately one-sixth of the area of Shiga Prefecture, and boasts an overwhelmingly large area and volume. It's famous not only in Japan, but around the world. It is one of only 20 ancient lakes in the world, and the fourth oldest among them. At Lake Biwa, there's Shirahige Shrine with its large Torii gate built over Lake Biwa, as seen at 0:27 in the video. This is a famous sightseeing spot in Shiga Prefecture. The beauty of Lake Biwa, which shows a different face in the daytime, evening, and at night, can be seen throughout the video. From the beginning of the film, you can see those different faces, such as the sun setting in the evening, the snow-covered surface of the lake at 1:27, and the surface of the lake illuminated by a starry sky at 2:05. Watching this video is sure to have you excited to see the beautiful scenery at Lake Biwa. Below, we'll give you information on some of the fun sites you can enjoy sightseeing around this beautiful lake. Sightseeing Around Lake Biwa Photo：Biwako Terrace Lake Biwa is famous as Japan's largest lake in Shiga Prefecture, and many people come here for sightseeing every day. Let us introduce you to some of the top tourist attractions at Lake Biwa, the symbol of Shiga Prefecture, along with some of its most popular spots that are counted under the Eight Views of Lake Biwa. ① BIWAKO VALLEY The majestic nature of BIWAKO VALLEY is considered as one of the top resort spots, not only in Shiga Prefecture, but in the Kansai region as a whole. This is one of the most famous sightseeing spots in Japan where you can enjoy the different seasons. You can enjoy zip lines from spring to autumn, which are very popular among young people, and in winter it becomes a ski resort. Recently, "Biwako Terrace" has been added to BIWAKO VALLEY, so you can fully enjoy the magnificent scenery and nature. ② SHIGA LAKE BIWA MUSEUM Shiga Prefectural Lake Biwa Museum, also known as, "Biwa-Haku" (Biwa Expo), was established in Shiga Prefecture in 1996. For an in-depth look at the history of Lake Biwa and its inhabitants, and to learn more about the lake, be sure to stop by Shiga Prefectural Lake Biwa Museum. Photo：Karasaki Shrine ③Karasaki Shrine Karasaki Shrine is another pride of Shiga Prefecture. Aside from its blessings, the fireworks display held in summer is especially popular. The dedication of Tezutsu Hanabi (Handheld Fireworks) at the end of the festival is an amazing sight, and many people visit the Shrine just to see the festival. ④Ogoto Onsen (Hot spring) If you're looking for accommodations during your trip, Ogoto Onsen is the place to stay. Not only can you enjoy gourmet cuisine from all four seasons of Shiga Prefecture, the view of Lake Biwa while relaxing in the open-air hot springs is a perfect way to end your trip. Walking around Hikone Jōkamachi (Hikone Castle Town) and Ōmihachiman (近江八幡), taking a stroll along Lake Biwa, hiking in the Suzuka Mountains (鈴鹿山脈), and taking a tour of Lake Biwa on a steamship and a cruise ship are all activities we highly recommend. You can also try to find your own hidden gem around the lake. Lake Biwa Introduction Summary Photo：Beautiful blue sky and Lake Biwa This concludes the introduction to Lake Biwa, one of Japan's most famous tourist attractions. If you're interested in the stunning scenery of Lake Biwa after seeing this video and reading this article, we recommend visiting the lake and seeing it for yourself. In addition to these sites, there are many other sightseeing spots around Otsu City, Shiga Prefecture. If you're looking for a place to visit, considering dropping by Lake Biwa! 【Official Website】Shiga Sightseeing Information [SHIGA Tourism Official Website] We Know Everything About Lake Biwa! https://en.biwako-visitors.jp/ 【Tripadvisor】Lake Biwa https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g298201-d1424390-Reviews-Lake_Biwa-Shiga_Prefecture_Kinki.html

The World Heritage Site, Kumano Kodo This video, titled "[4K] A World Heritage Site with Scenic Landscape: Kumano Kodo" ([4K] 世界遺産 絶景 熊野古道), is a sightseeing PR video that captures the breathtaking scenery of Kumano Kodo, a UNESCO World Heritage Site in Wakayama Prefecture (和歌山県, Wakayama-ken). Sacred Sites and Pilgrimage Routes in the Kii Mountain Range, a World Heritage Site, includes Yoshino Omine, Kumano Sanzan, and the Sacred Sites and Pilgrimage Routes of Koyasan (Mt. Koya). Among them, the route from Kumano Sanzan's Daimonzaka (大門坂, Daimonzaka), to Nachi Falls (那智の滝, Nachinotaki) is one of the most popular tourist routes, where you can enjoy the cultural scenery. It takes about 15 minutes to get to Daimonzaka by car from Nachi Station on the JR Kii Main Line (紀伊本線, Kiihonsen). This video captures the route from Daimonzaka to Nachi Falls in beautiful 4K footage. Enjoy the natural beauty and sacred temples and shrines in the video. Kumano Kodo- A World Heritage Site Source :YouTube screenshot Kumano Pilgrimage Routes (熊野参詣道, Kumano Sankeido) is an umbrella term for Nakahechi Route (中辺路, Nakahechi) which runs from Tanabe to Kumano Hongu Taisha Shrine (熊野本宮, Kumanohongu), Ohechi Route (大辺路, Ohechi) which runs along the coast to Nachi Shingu (那智新宮, Nachishingu) along the coastline, and Kohechi Route (小辺路, Kohechi) which runs from Koyasan to Kumano Hongu Taisha. In addition, the Kii Route (紀伊路, Kiiji), accessible from the Kii area, the Ise Route (伊勢路, Iseji), accessible from Ise, and the Omine Okugakemichi Route (大峯奥駈道, Omineokugakemichi), which leads from Yoshino Omine in Nara to Kumano Hongu Taisha Shrine, are some of the historical hidden gems in the area. Kumano Kodo is known as a historical power spot that has been used by many people since ancient times. If you’re planning on visiting Kumano Kodo, we also recommend getting a Kumano Kodo Stamp Book (熊野古道押印帳, Kumano Kodo Oincho) to gather seals. A Pilgrimage to the Historical Kumano Kodo! ©T-KIMURA Modifying The natural trails of Kumano Kodo are paved with cobblestones. Make your way through the historical cobblestone trail and through the torii gates to make the pilgrimage to Kumano Hongu Taisha Shrine and Kumano Nachi Shrine (熊野那智大社, Kumanonachitaisha), introduced at 1:23 in the video. At 2:00, you can see the breathtaking sight of Nachi Falls. Located at Hiro Shrine (飛瀧神社, Hirojinja), an associated shrine of Kumano Nachi Shrine, and is one of the three most famous waterfalls in Japan. The solemn waterfall, which is considered to be a sacred object of worship, is so beautiful that you can't help but lose track of time as you gaze at it. Other Sightseeing Spots Around Kumano Kodo Photo：Kamikura Shrine There are many more sightseeing spots around Kumano Kodo! There's the former site of Kumano Hongu-taisha, which was moved to its present location in 1889, called Oyu no hara Kumano Hayatama Shrine (熊野速玉大社, Kumanohayatamataisha), where Kumano Hayatama no Okami (熊野速玉大神, Kumanohayatamanookami) and Kumano Fusumi no Okami (熊野夫須美大神, Kumanofusuminookami) are enshrined, Kamikura Shrine (神倉神社, Kamikurajinja), a shrine with a huge rock called "Gotobiki Boulder" as its deity atop the 500 stone steps, Seiganto Temple (青岸渡寺, Seigantoji), Tamaki Shrine (玉置神社, Tamakijinja), Doro Gorge (瀞峡, Dorokyo), which is a huge valley inside Yoshino Kumano National Park (吉野熊野国立公園, Yoshinokumanokokuritsukoen), Tanise Suspension Bridge (谷瀬の吊り橋, Tanisenotsuribashi), Yunomine Hot Springs (湯の峰温泉, Yunomineonsen), Kawayu Hot Springs (川湯温泉, Kawayuonsen), and many others. You may want to consider visiting Kumano Kodo in conjunction with festivals and events such as the annual Kumano Hongu Taisha Shrine Festival (熊野本宮大社例大祭, Kumanohongutaisha Reidaisai), Funatama Shrine Festival (船玉神社祭, Funatamajinjasai), the Yata Fire Festival (八咫の火祭り, Yatanohimatsuri), and more. There are also restaurants, cafes and eateries aroundKumano Kodo to help you relax after a long journey. Summary of Kumano Kodo Photo：Kumano Kodo in Fall We hope that this video and article has inspired you to visit Kumano Kodo, a historic and famous tourist attraction. There are many Instagrammable views, so take the time to take in the sights. The Kumano Kodo pilgrimage route includes steep slopes such as Koyazaka (高野坂, Koyazaka) and Tomitazaka (富田坂, Tomitazaka), so wear clothes that are easy to get around in. After the pilgrimage, we recommend that you take a refreshing dip in a hot spring, such as at "Boukido" in the Nachi Katsura area. Some travel agencies offer Kumano Kodo walking tour plans, so if it's your first time visiting, consider giving it a try. Be sure to watch the video to see the beautiful views of the Kumano Kodo! 【Official Website】Kumano Kodo｜Kumano Hongu Taisha Shrine Tourism Association https://www.hongu.jp/en/ 【Tripadvisor】Kumano Kodo https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g1023661-d7902795-Reviews-Kumano_Kodo_Pilgrimage_Routes-Tanabe_Wakayama_Prefecture_Kinki.html

Hidaka's Promotional Video This video, titled "Hidaka, Kochi Prefecture Promotional Video," introduces Hidaka in Takaoka County (高岡郡, Takaokagun), a little-known tourist site with beautiful scenery. Hidaka carries out a number of tourism promotions under "Ryoma Challenge" to reinvigorate the community. The village is home to hundreds of artistic landscapes and fascinating tourist spots. Hidaka stands around 16 km away from Kochi City, Kochi Prefecture, and is about 30 minutes away by car. This 4-minute clip encapsulates the vast wonders of Hidaka. Yes, such an attractive village exists in Kochi Prefecture! Please, enjoy the video. Recommended Tourist Sites Source :YouTube screenshot The Nagoya Sinking Bridge (名越屋沈下橋, Nagoya Chinkabashi), the tasteful bridge introduced at the beginning of the video, abridges the Niyodo River captured at 3:29 in the video. You'll get to enjoy photogenic scenery by getting a ride on a Yakatabune in the miraculous Niyodo River; the river with the cleanest water in Japan. The Niyodo River Cycling Course, Kusaka River Retention Basin (日下川調整池, Kusakagawa Choseichi) and the nature around Mt. Otaki (大滝山, Otakisan) are some of the most recommended tourist sites. The vast Hidaka is also abound with golf courses such as Green Feel Golf Club and Mt. Nishiki (錦山, Nishikiyama) Country Club. Hidaka hosts Cosmos Festival and a fireworks festival, so we recommend scheduling your vacation around the events. The Historical Sightseeing Spots of Hidaka Photo：Saruta Cave Tosaninomiya Omura Shrine (土佐二宮小村神社, Tosaninomiya Omurajinja), introduced from 0:35 in the video, stores Wooden Bosatsu Masks (木造菩薩面, Mokuzo Bosatsu Men), designated as an Important Cultural Property by the government, and Kondosokantachigoshirae・Tachimi (an ancient sword), a National Treasure. Botan Cedar (牡丹杉, Botansugi), planted in the shrine property, is said to have torched itself when there was something unusual in the village. Hidaka Washi Factory (ひだか和紙工場, Hidaka Washi Kojo), which produces a traditional local specialty of Hidaka, ‘Yakimonozukuri Mohei Kiln (茂平窯, Moheigama)’ in Mohei’s Village (茂平の里, Moheinosato), Ono Kuwa Factory (大野くわ製造処, Onokuwaseizoudokoro) and Hidaka Sake Brewer Hall (日高酒造ホール, Hidakashuzohoru) are places to visit! Exploring the Saruta Cave (猿田洞, Sarutado) introduced from 3:12 in the video is definitely an unforgettable experience as well! Dining in Hidaka Photo：Tea Plantation Introduced from 1:05 in the video, is Tosa Tea (土佐茶, Tosacha) of Kiriyama Tea Field (霧山茶園, Kiriyamachaen). Hojicha, made from tea leaves cultivated in a warm climate, is unbelievably delicious! The sweets using sugar tomatoes, Imokenpi, and Imo Chips, both a product of Imoya Kinjiro Hidaka Honten, are popular in Hidaka. In addition, Hidaka is famous for Omurice (Omelette rice). If you are visiting Omurice Street (オムライス街道, Omurice Kaido), be sure to enjoy the special Omurice lunch at "Mura Café Hidaka," a restaurant located inside Village Station Hidaka, Summary of Hidaka Hidaka is popular for its calm climate. Currently, its population is just below 5,000, but migrants have increased as of late. Many Onsen Ryokan (hot spring inns) and hotels are located in Hidaka, so you can enjoy luxurious tourist routes over the course of a few days. If you are interested in the tasteful scenery shown in the video, be sure to give Hidaka a visit! 【Tripadvisor】Hidaka https://www.tripadvisor.com/Tourism-g1121460-Hidaka_mura_Takaoka_gun_Kochi_Prefecture_Shikoku-Vacations.html

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

The Beautiful Snowscapes of Japan This video, titled "4K Beautiful snow scene in Japan 日本の雪景色 TOP14名所 winter scenery snowscapes snow light tourism trip," was produced by Discover Nippon. Japan is a country where you can enjoy the nature of all four seasons. The Japanese archipelago has a unique vertical topography, which means that in winter, the temperature in Hokkaido, located in the north of the country, can drop below 10 degrees Celsius, while in the subtropical region of Okinawa, it's possible to wear a t-shirt year round. In this article, we'll introduce you to some of the most beautiful snowscapes of winter in Japan alongside a beautiful 4K video! Sightseeing in Tokyo on a Snowy Day When people think of snow in Japan, they generally think of the snowy landscapes of Tohoku and Hokkaido; however, several times a year, snow falls in the capital city of Tokyo as well. The snow brings the city to a halt, making the Imperial Palace and Sensoji Temple, with its low traffic (both human and vehicle), a tasteful, hidden tourist destination. Tokyo's snowy scenery, which can only be seen once or twice a year, is a rare sight. However, transportation is tremendously impeded, so please be cautious when collecting information on traffic and weather forecasts. Places to See Japan's Representative Snowscapes If you're looking for beautiful snowscapes in Japan, then we've got just the list for you: ・Akita Prefecture：Igloos ・Gifu Prefecture：Shirakawa, The Northern Alps ・Hokkaido：Otaru Canal, Sapporo Snow Festival ・Yamagata Prefecture：Ginzan Onsen, The Ice Trees of Zao ・Ishikawa Prefecture：Kenroku-en covered in snow Even if you're not in the Tohoku region, you can still enjoy the spectacular snowscapes of the mountains, and even in the Tohoku region, there's not so much snow on the Pacific side. We recommend the hot springs in the mountains and onsen areas on the Sea of Japan side. Active Snowfall Scenery and Sights to Enjoy There are also plenty of places to enjoy winter sports in Japan. Japan is a popular destination for winter sports, having hosted two Winter Olympics to date. Many of the ski resorts where you can snowboard are located near hot spring resorts, so you can relax after a long day of skiing/snowboarding with delicious food and hot springs. If You're Traveling the Snowscapes of Japan, Hot Spring Tourism Is the Way to Go! Here's a list of hot spring resorts with snowy landscapes and winter sports: ・Nagano Prefecture has a great view of the Northern Alps and popular hot springs and ski resorts such as Hakuba. ・Niigata Prefecture is famous for its snow, hot springs and delicious seafood. ・Hokkaido is a paradise of hot springs, where many foreign tourists come to enjoy the large scale resort hotels with ski slopes. After skiing and snowboarding, you can replenish your stamina with Ghengis Khan (Jingisukan), a Japanese lamb dish. ・After skiing, you can enjoy playing in the snow in an igloo and relaxing in hot springs in Akita Prefecture. Kiritanpo hot pot is the specialty in this area! All of these are great places to visit, so find which one suits you best! Hokkaido and Nagano Prefecture are the host cities of the Winter Olympics, so it's safe to say that they're the Meccas of winter sports in Japan. Sightseeing at Temples and Shrines Where You Can Enjoy the Majestic Snowy Scenery Here are some temples and shrines we recommend checking out: ・Yamadera (Yamagata Prefecture)： Yamadera, also known in children's songs, is a famous temple located in Yamagata Prefecture. ・Chuson-ji Temple (Iwate Prefecture): Chuson-ji is a World Heritage Site! The beauty of Konjikido with a snowy landscape is unbeatable. ・Iwakiyama Shrine (Aomori Prefecture): Iwakiyama Shrine, located on Mt. Iwaki, which is often mentioned in songs, is an Important Cultural Property of Japan and is the setting for Sansho the Bailiff. ・Towada Shrine (Aomori, Japan): A historical shrine with a lake with a beautiful emerald green surface. The contrast between the snowy winter landscape and the lake is like a beautiful painting. Summary of the Snowscapes of Japan Winters in snowy countries can be hard in terms of climate, but the beautiful, ink-painting-like world created by the snow that covers Japan's beautiful natural landscape is well worth seeing. Enjoy Japan's snowy landscape in the beautiful 4K video.

Jigokudani Snow Monkey Park! This video, titled "SNOW MONKEY JAPAN｜Jigokudani Snow Monkey Park｜Monkeys in Hot Springs," introduces the tourist spot in Nagano prefecture (長野県, Nagano ken) in Koushinetsu region (甲信越地方, Koushinetsu chihou ) of Japan. The monkeys at Jigokudani Snow Monkey Park bathe in the hot springs to fend off the cold in the winter. Enjoy watching the lovely monkeys chilling out in the cold winter weather! What is Jigokudani Snow Monkey Park? Source :YouTube screenshot Jigokudani Snow Monkey Park is a popular destination for both domestic and foreign travelers. It's called "Snow Monkey Mountain" in English. The park can be enjoyed in every season, and in the fall, the leaves change to beautiful shades of red and yellow, creating a completely different atmosphere than that of the snowscapes of winter. The video shows how to get to Jigokudani Snow Monkey Park by taking the Nagano Electric Railway's Snow Monkey Limited Express (長野電鉄特急スノーモンキー, Nagano Dentetsu Tokkyu Snow Monkey) connecting Nagano station and Yudanaka station, at 0:27 in the video. It takes about 15 minutes to get to the Kanbayashi hot spring (上林温泉, Kanbayashi Onsen) parking area by bus, and about 30 minutes to get to Jigokudani Snow Monkey Park by foot. We recommend stopping at Yokoyugawa Valley (横湯川渓谷, Yokoyugawa Keikoku) on the way. You need to buy a ticket to enter when you arrive at Jigokudani Snow Monkey Park. This is shown at 3:36 in the video. Source :YouTube screenshot At Jigokudani Snow Monkey Park, you can enjoy watching a bunch of monkeys playing around. When they get cold, they hop in the hot springs for a bit to warm up. Unfortunately, if it's hot out, the monkeys won't be getting in the hot springs too frequently. That being said, we recommend visiting on colder days so you can see the adorable sight of them bathing. There are live cameras you can check out before visiting to see what the weather is like as well. Monkeys Bathing at Jigokudani Snow Monkey Park Photo：Snow monkey You can watch monkeys taking a bath in the video at 4:38. A troop of monkeys bathe in the springs, surrounded by white snow. The monkeys enjoy their bath time much like people, and you can even see a mother and her child taking a bath together at 5:06. One monkey can be seen relaxing with its eyes closed at 6:30 in the video. Although there are many tourists around, the monkeys pay no mind and go on enjoying themselves. Sightseeing Around Jigokudani Snow Monkey Park The bus tour, which goes around Jigokudani Snow Monkey Park, is great for people who enjoy lively sightseeing trips. We also recommend stopping by Jigokudani Hot Spring Inn (地獄谷温泉後楽館, Jigokudani Onsen Korakukan) and Jigokudani Fountain (地獄谷噴泉, Jigokudani Funsen) as well. Shiga Plateau (志賀高原, Shiga Kougen) is another popular tourist spot in Nagano prefecture. There are cafés where you can eat lunch, cool hotels, and an art museum that you can enjoy here. Summary of Jigokudani Snow Monkey Park Photo：Jigokudani Snow Monkey Park Entrance Unfortunately the only way to get to Jidokudani Snow Monkey Park is to walk the promenade from the parking area to the park itself. It takes about 30 minutes, so we highly recommend wearing comfortable clothing. There are some rules that you need to follow as not to scare the monkeys, so be sure to check those out as well. There are many places to stay near Jigokudani Snow Monkey Park, so if you're planning on staying over night you'll have no trouble finding a place to stay. Are you ready to see some cute monkeys in person? ◆Jigokudani Snow Monkey Park◆ 【Address】6845 Yamanouchi-machi Shimotakai-gun Nagano Japan 381-0401 【Access】~30 minutes by car from the Shinshu-Nakano Interchange, or ~15 minutes by bus or taxi from Yudanaka Station on the Nagano Electric Railway limited express line. ~30 minutes on foot from the Kanbayashi hot spring parking area 【Hours】Summer 8:30-17:00 Winter 9:00-16:00 【Admission fee】Adults 500 JPY, children 250 JPY (Coupons available) 【Closures】No regular holidays 【Telephone】0269-33-4379 【Stay time】2 hours 【Official Website】Jigokudani Snow Monkey Park http://en.jigokudani-yaenkoen.co.jp/ 【Tripadvisor】Jigokudani Snow Monkey Park https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g1117904-d324924-Reviews-Jigokudani_Snow_Monkey_Park

Hashihaka Kofun This is the online video "Visit the History Books - Nihon Shoji - Nara / Hashihaka Kofun（史書を訪ねて　「日本書記」　奈良・箸墓古墳）" produced by the Yomiuri Shimbun. It introduces the oldest burial mound in Japan, found in Nara Prefecture in the Kansai region. The Hashihaka Kofun is a repellent round tumulus that is over 200 meters long. Hashihaka Kofun is said to have been built in the late 3rd century, between the Yayoi period (c. 300 BC to c. 250 C.E.) to the Kofun period (c. 350 to C.C. 700). The Imperial Household Agency manages it as the tomb of Emperor Korei's daughter and therefore, entry is forbidden. The greenery covering Hashihaka Kofun has been designated as a natural scenic monument of the historical site, and the surrounding moat has been selected as one of the top 100 reservoirs in Japan. Feel the atmosphere of the mysterious Hashihaka Kofun from the video. The Oldest Keyhole-Shaped Tomb Source :YouTube screenshot According to the Nihon Shoki (Chronicles of Japan), Hashihaka Kofun is said to be the tomb of the daughter of Emperor Korei. It is also said that there are similarities between the queen of Yamatai, Himiko, who is described in literature such as Gishi Wajinden. Some researchers have argued that there has been controversy over the birth of the Yamato kingship and the position of the Hashihaka Kofun. As you can see from 0:54 in the video, the Municipal Burial Culture Center in Sakurai City, stores a plate-shaped "Shibayama Stone" excavated near Hashihaka Kofun. Shibayama stone is believed to have been used to build the stone chamber, and it is said that it was taken from basalt excavated in Kashiwara City, Osaka Prefecture, about 18 km west of Hashihaka Kofun. In addition, many excavated items such as earthenware and wooden products have been confirmed. Muon survey of Hashihaka Kofun Source :YouTube screenshot In the past, archaeological / historical researchers and others have entered Hashihaka Kofun with permission from the Imperial Household Agency, but the mystery of Hashihaka Kofun has not been clarified. In 2012, a three-dimensional laser measuring device mounted on a helicopter was used, revealing a detailed portrait. Also, in January 2020, Kashihara Archaeological Research Institute, which studies Hashihaka Kofun, announced that it would investigate the internal structure from outside using elementary particles called "muon" that penetrate substances. Attention is being paid as to whether future research results will lead to the unraveling of Hashihaka Kofun. According to many years of research, Hashihaka Kofun is said to be a rare burial mound in Japan, with no traces of invasion from tomb raiders. Summary of Hashihaka Kofun Photo：Sakurai Line In this article, we introduced Hashihaka Kofun. There is a group of ancient tombs in the center of Machiko, located mainly at Hashihaka Kofun in Sakurai City, Nara Prefecture. Access to Hashihaka Kofun is a 15-minute walk from Makimukai Station on the JR Sakurai Line. There is also a parking lot. Is it really Himiko's tomb? Soak in the magnificent atmosphere and solve the ancient puzzle. 【Official Website】The Official Nara Travel Guide https://www.visitnara.jp/

Sightseeing in Onomichi City, Hiroshima! This article introduces a video called "Japan Heritage Onomichi City" that summarizes sightseeing information about Onomichi City, and Hiroshima Prefecture. In this three-and-a-half-minute video, artist Naoki Honjo walks around the attractive tourist destinations and scenic locations in Onomichi City, Hiroshima Prefecture, a Japanese heritage site known as the "Southern City," sandwiched between the three mountains of Onomichi and the Onomichi Channel. Enjoy the rich scenery of the Onomichi area! Visit Historical Temples in Onomichi City, Hiroshima Prefecture! Photo：Friends visiting a shrine There are many temples in Onomichi City, Hiroshima Prefecture, Chugoku Region, where you can feel the Japanese atmosphere. The historic Jodoji Hondo and Tahoto, the Saikokuji Niomon, the Shakokuji Kondo and the three-storied pagoda, introduced at 0:52, are absolutely amazing. Don't miss the statues of Joshoji, Saigoji Hondo, and Amidanyorai at Senkoji Temple, and the silk-colored Fugen Enmei statue at Jikoji Temple. If you want to enjoy the beautiful scenery of Onomichi City, take the Senkojiyama Ropeway to the Senkoji Park Observation Deck. From here, you can enjoy the scenic beauty of Onomichi City, the Nishi Seto Expressway, with its mild climate, and the distant Innoshima and Ikuchi Islands. Recommended Spots in Onomichi City, Hiroshima! Photo：Onomichi landscape If you're staying in Onomichi City, Hiroshima Prefecture, we recommend Nishiyama Honkan, a retro hotel introduced at 1:36 in the video. Check out the beautiful views of Miharashi-tei, the charming gardens of the former Fukui House, and the Soraiken Garden. Along the slopes of Onomichi, there are many cafes where you can enjoy local gourmet. From 2:08 in the video, cultural buildings such as the Former Onomichi Bank Head Office, and the Former Onomichi Chamber of Commerce are also introduced. Onomichi City, Hiroshima Prefecture is known as a port town and has a long history of travelers. If you cross Innoshima Bridge from Mukojimacho in Onomichi, you can go to Innoshima, a popular tourist spot floating in Setouchi. Check out sightseeing events in Onomichi City, Hiroshima! Photo：Onomichi Fireworks Festival There are various events around the city of Onomichi, Hiroshima Prefecture, where the residents are united and excited. In particular, be sure to watch the Yoshiwa Taiko Dance with a long history, the Betcher Festival, the Sumiyoshi Festival, the Onomichi Light Festival, the Onomichi Minato Festival, the Onomichi Gion Festival, the Innoshima Suigun Festival, the Onomichi Sumiyoshi Fireworks Festival, and the Setodacho Summer Festival. They are all very thrilling to watch. For more information about Onomichi's festivals, events, and history, visit the Onomichi History Museum and Art Museum. Summary of Onomichi City, Hiroshima Prefecture If you walk along the sightseeing route in Onomichi City, Hiroshima Prefecture, you'll be able to take some great Instagram photos. There are many maze-like slopes in the city of Onomichi City, Hiroshima Prefecture, and it is famous for the many cats living in the city, Innoshima and Ikuchijima. It is also a popular Japanese film and serial drama shooting location, so we recommend going to a filming location! In Onomichi City, Hiroshima Prefecture, you can enjoy cycling, Onomichi Hondori Shopping Street, Kaigan Dori, Onomichi Ihatov, Maneki Neko Art Museum, The Narrow Cat Path, the Fukuishi Cat, Onomichi City Art Museum, and Setouchi Shimanami Kaido. Also there's delicious food in the area, such as the local Onomichi ramen, "sweets using citrus fruits," "Hirayama Ikuo Museum," "Kosanji and Kosanji museum." Visit famous and unexpected sightseeing spots and enjoy the charm of Onomichi, Hiroshima Prefecture. Be sure to check out the video of Onomichi-shi, Hiroshima to see everything it has to offer! 【Official Website】Onomichi City, Hiroshima Prefecture hall homepage https://www.city.onomichi.hiroshima.jp/site/onomichicity/ 【Tripadvisor】Onomichi City https://www.tripadvisor.com/Tourism-g651649-Onomichi_Hiroshima_Prefecture_Chugoku-Vacations.html

A Look at Tajimi City, Gifu The video "【Tajimi City PR video】 I love Tajimi City!" (【多治見市PR動画】たじみしがすき。), made by Ponycanyon, introduces many attractive places to visit in Tajimi city. Not only is it packed with traditional Japanese culture and food, but it's also a great place to live and raise a family. Check out the video and see the beauty of Tajimi! In this article, a child shows us around the attractions of Tajimi city in Gifu. Let’s see what Tajimi city is like for kids. About Tajimi city in Gifu Photo：Tajimi city Tajimi city in Gifu prefecture is well known for having the hottest weather in Japan. There are a lot of places to go sightseeing where you can absorb historic backgrounds and enjoy the outdoors. As such, there are many photogenic sites for Instagram as well. As you can see in the video, Tajimi city is a nice place to live. You can get to JR Tajimi station by express train from Nagoya. It takes only about 20 minutes, so it's great if you want to go shopping too! See more about transportation at 0:36 in the video. Raising children is easy thanks to the support from city hall and the large municipal hospital. At 2:00 the video mentions the average ambulance arrival time is about 7.3 minutes (compared to the average 8.5 minutes of Japan). You can bring your kids to Pokapoka Plaza which has a playground inside, and eat delicious eel and make pottery. You can see in the video at 0:49. Look how excited her is to meet “Unagappa,” the cute mascot of Tajimi. In this video, there's tons of things to see in Tajimi city! Take a look at 1:36 in the video. Here you can see the average prices of residential land. It mentions that the city costs a fifth of what land in Nagoya costs, and it's so close to Nagoya as well. There are some nice places such as the Valor Cultural Hall (Tajimi city cultural hall), the Cultural Properties Protection Center and the Cafe Gallery Momogusa. Experience Japanese Culture in Tajimi City, Gifu! Source :YouTube screenshot Tajimi city is famous for Japanese handicrafts such as Mino Pottery( 美濃焼, Minoyaki). Mino yaki, introduced in the video at 2:04, is pottery made in the Tono area of Gifu. This beautiful and easy to use pottery attracts attention around the world. You can see it at the Mino Pottery Museum and you can also experience making it at the Voice Workshop at Azuchi Momoyama Pottery Park. Also mentioned in the video at 1:24 is Tajimi Honmachi Oribe Street. This 400 meters long street has many pottery shops and galleries. Here you can see the Minoyaki Archive Library and the History Museum. There is also Ichinokura Oribe Street where you can enjoy locally made Japanese sake. Sightseeing Information for Tajimi City, Gifu Photo：Eiho-ji Temple on Mt.Kokei There are a lot of attractions to see in Tajimi city, Gifu. If you want to enjoy beautiful works of art, we recommend the Mosaic Tile Museum, the Ceramic Park MINO, the Ikeda Cho Folk Museum, the Museum of Modern Ceramic Art and the Ichinokura Sakazuki Museum. If you like historic places, how about Eiho-ji Temple (永保寺, Eihoji) on Mt.Kokei (虎渓山, Kokeizan), the Society of the Divine Word, the Tajimi Monastery, the Nishiura Archive (Sekishin Sanzenkura) or the Oribe Pottery House? If you want to enjoy some natural scenery, you can go to the Nishiura Garden, the Path of Tosai or the Kasahara Shiomi Forest Park. There are many kinds of festivals and events in Tajimi city such as the Tajimi Festival, the Shuudoin (monastery) Wine Festival, the Michisakari Thanksgiving, the Tajimirukomichi, the Nigiwaiichi [Station Mall], Ogibou No Te (a historical reenactment), the Kasahara Shinmeigu (Kasahara shrine) Autumn Festival, the Akibasama (Akiba shrine), the Tajimi City Fireworks Festival, the Tajimi Pottery Festival, the Ichinokura Touso Festival (Pottery festival), the Tajimi Pottery Festival at Nishi Dori, the Gion Festival, the Oribe Kichakai, the Mino Folk Art Pottery Festival, the Tajimi Chawan (Ricebowl) Festival, the Ichinokura Tou no Sato Festival (Pottery), the Zohogama Tsubaki Exibition, the Honmachi Oribe Street Hina Festival, the International Pottery Festival, the Tajimi Station Kita Beer Garden, the Natsu No Yo Festival (Summer night festival), the Deai Matsuri (Festival of Encounters) and the Minoyaki Festival. Summary of Tajimi City, Gifu Tajimi city has a lot of attractive things to do with its delicious food, traditional culture, and beautiful nature. As shown in the video, not only is it a good place to live, it’s also great for sightseeing as well. Be sure to check out the video and see the wonders of Tajimi city. If you like what you see, consider giving it a visit yourself! 【Official Website】Tajimi City Hall https://www.city.tajimi.lg.jp/ 【Tripadvisor】Tajimi City https://www.tripadvisor.com/Tourism-g1019694-Tajimi_Gifu_Prefecture_Tokai_Chubu-Vacations.html

The Beautiful Views of Amami Oshima, Kagoshima This video, titled "Short Surf Trip to Amami Oshima," was created by "Hiroo Shimo." This video is perfect for people who love surfing, as it shows viewers a beautiful view of Amami Oshima, including beautiful aerial footage taken by drone. Amami Oshima has a warm climate year around with great waves. With these conditions, Amami Oshima is known as a surfing utopia. The Pro Surfing World Championship was also held here. This article will talk about tourist information as well as surfing spots in Amami Oshima. In the video you can see surfing and the beautiful, crystal clear waters of Amami Oshima. Hopefully you're up for some travelling because this video will have you raring to go! Surfing at Amami Oshima, Kagoshima Photo：Amami Oshima coast As Amami Oshima is warm year around, and the water is also warm, it's the perfect place for surfing. There are several surfing spots in Amami Oshima where both beginners and pros can hit the waves. Take a look at the video at 3:06 to see the beautiful blue waters and the coral reefs underneath the ocean, in this aerial video. Also check out 3:25 to see a beautiful sunset with two palm trees. This video will make you feel like you're actually on a tropical island. Wet suits and surfboards are available for rent at surf schools, so there's no need to worry about being unprepared. Some surf spots are used mainly by locals and we don't recommend them for beginners. If you're new to surfing, we recommend enrolling in a surf school and getting lessons and advice from an instructor. Surf Spots in Amami Oshima, Kagoshima Photo：Surfing There's a chance you'll see sea turtles in Amami Oshima as well. Advanced surfers try to get good waves on days when typhoons are passing. As Amami Oshima is an island, surf spots are divided into two areas: the East China Sea side and the Pacific Ocean side. The main surf spots are as follows: ・Tebiro ・Gamou ・Hatohama ・Ayamaro ・Gusuku ・Ohama ・Bira ・Imaizai ・Yagijima ・Kohama ・Toen ・Katoku ・Tomori Beach Marine Activities at Amami Oshima, Kagoshima Photo：Exploring mangroves As Amami Oshima has such clear waters, to the point that you can see the coral reefs on the ocean floor, there are other marine activities you can enjoy as well. Swimming in the ocean, snorkeling, canoeing, SUP(Stand up Paddle boarding), and diving, are all popular marine activities in Amami Oshima. There are also schools and rental companies to rent equipment, so you can enjoy the beautiful ocean without having to worry about bringing much. Sightseeing Around Amami Oshima, Kagoshima Photo：Mangroves at Amami Oshima Access to Amami Oshima is about 2.5 hours from Tokyo and 2 hours from Kansai by plane. There's more to see in Amami Oshima than just the sea as well. There's the Tanaka Isson Art Museum, where visitors can learn about the history and culture of Amami, as well as Amami Park, the Kuroshio-no-Mori Mangrove Park where visitors can explore the virgin mangrove forest by canoe, and the Mangrove Forest National Park. You can also visit Kakeroma Island by boat to enjoy more natural scenery. Camping is available at Ohama Seaside Park and if you want to admire the scenery, we recommend Ayamaru cape, and Honohoshi shore. Enjoy the beautiful ocean and outstanding natural views on your visit to Amami Oshima. Summary of Amami Oshima, Kagoshima The video "Short Surf Trip to Amami Oshima," shows people enjoying surfing in the beautiful ocean. This article talked about surf spots, information about marine activities, and tourist spots in Amami Oshima. We hope you enjoyed the article and look forward to seeing you at Amami Oshima! 【Official Website】Amami City Official Website https://www.city.amami.lg.jp/english/index.html

Mitten Crab Fishing and Mitten Crab Kakemeshi! The video（岡山・和気町に伝わるモクズガニ漁に密着「ズガニのかけ飯」の味は） closely covers Keiji Mandai from the Yoshiikawa Southern Fishery Cooperative, who runs a mitten crab fishing business in Wake, Okayama in Japan's Chugoku. The title of the video roughly translates to “Japanese mitten crab fishing In Wake, Okayama. Mitten crab fisheries and a taste of Kakemeshi." Kenji Mandai is a veteran fisherman with 70 years of experience. Mitten crab is called "Zugani" by the local people and it is used in the local special dish “Zugani Kakemeshi.” Please watch the video to see some of the characteristics of mitten crab fishing, or to check the recipe for Zugani Kakemeshi. Mitten Crab Fishing Photo：Mitten crab Mitten crabs are found in the river and the local people call it “Zugani.” The mitten crab is part of the crustacean species. Its carapace is 7-8 cm, and it weighs around 180g. The fishing process is actually quite easy as well. Being nocturnal, mitten crabs usually stand still in between rocks. Knowing this, fisherman put net traps into the river and the mitten crabs have a tendency to just walk inside them. That's it! If you want to see this in action, take a look at the video starting from 0:16. Mitten crab fishing peaks in the fall since the crabs travel down the river to breed. They're packed with meat during this time of the year so it's definitely the best season to try them. If the crabs legs crabs are yellow, that means it's a lunker! Unfortunately, because their size is relatively small and it takes time and effort to cook, there are fewer and fewer people eating mitten crabs nowadays . As a result, not many fishermen are involved in mitten crab fishing, and the tradition has been on a steady decline. What Is Mitten Crab Kakemeshi? Recipes and Popular Ways to Cook Mitten Crab Source :YouTube screenshot Mitten crab kakemeshi is loved by the local people in Wake, Okayama and a feast is held during the rice harvesting season in the fall. After cooking vegetables in a pot, chop up the mitten crabs (including the shells), and strain the crabs using a strainer. In order to get the best tasting crab, it is best to spend time chopping up the crab as finely as possible. The shell of the crabs used to be the main source of protein for the people of Wake. After seasoning the soup with soy sauce, the standard way to enjoy this meal is to put it over rice. Mitten crab kakemeshi has a very rich taste, and you can taste every ingredient. For a more in-depth explanation on how to prepare mitten crab, take a look at 3:16 for the recipe on how to make mitten crab kakemeshi. There are several other recipes using mitten crabs, such as Takikomi gohan (this involves cooking the crab with other ingredients inside of a rice cooker with rice), Tsugani soup, steamed crabs, miso soup, and crab pasta. Mitten crab is a perfect ingredient for both Japanese and western dishes. Also shown in the video at 5:58, the local people cut a steamed crab in half and eat it straight. A Summary of the Mitten Crab Fishing and Mitten Crab Kakemeshi Introduction Photo：Mitten crab Mitten crabs taste the best, and are beefiest in Autumn, and although it has a strong smell, if cooked properly it can become a delicious meal. If you are planning to visit Japan, we recommend trying different kinds of Japanese food to feel the culture of Japan. If this article has got you interested in trying some crab dishes after watching the mitten crab fishing video, there's no better place to get your fill than Wake, Okayama. Although mitten crab fishing has been on the decline, mitten crab is a taste that deserves to be passed down for generations.

This video, titled "Japan in 8K- 1 Hour Relaxing Aerial Film," was produced by "Armadas." The video is a compilation of aerial footage from different parts of Japan taken from 2018-2019. A total of eight locations were filmed: Izu, Yakushima, Kyoto, Hakodate, Tokyo, Yokohama, Enoshima, and Nagoya. The video runs for an hour with soothing music, allowing you to watch it and relax. Many people will be reminded of the beauty of Japan's wilderness, night scenery, and landscapes. If you just want to enjoy some beautiful scenery, or rediscover the beauty of Japan, be sure to check this video out!

"Bo-Taoshi," the Famous Sport Played by Students of the National Defense Academy of Japan This video was created by ‘wasabiesince2002’ and was entitled ‘Punch! Kick! Hurl! And choke! "Bo-taoshi" of National Defense Academy of Japan is a combat sport!! 2013 National Defense Academy of Japan, the 61st Founding of the Academy Memorial Festival, Bo-taoshi, 1st Match, 1st Game, No.4（殴る！蹴る！投げる！絞める！防衛大学校の棒倒しは格闘技だ！！ H25年 防衛大学校 第61回 開校記念祭 棒倒し 第１回戦第一試合 No.4）’. Usually locked by airtight gates leaving common people with no clue on what’s inside, the National Defense Academy of Japan, introduced in this video, is, in a sense, an unexplored location left in modern-day Japan. Annually, the academy hosts a famous event that is broadcast on TV as well. That event is called "Bo-taoshi" and it is performed during the autumn academy festival: ‘Founding of the Academy Memorial Festival’. Bo-taoshi, that leaves spectators breathless, is more of a combat sport than something you'd see at a school festival. A chaotic brawl of punches, kicks, throws, and chokes leaves many injured! But watching this traditional sport, the students of the National Defense Academy of Japan don’t fail to assure that they are the guardians of Japan's future. Please enjoy the powerful battle between these future self-defense officers in the video. It's sure to be very exciting. The History of the Extreme "Bo-Taoshi" Photo：Self-Defense Officer Bo-taoshi is a traditional event with a long history played in the Imperial Military Academy, Imperial Military Air Force Academy, and the Imperial Naval Academy. It is a precious game that brings the history of modern Japan to the present. Bo-taoshi in the National Defense Academy has been played since 1954 at the ‘Founding of the Academy Festival’ and it is considered one of the three major games of the academy along with the ‘Cutter Games’ and ‘Long-Distance Running’. What Exactly Is "Bo-Taoshi’" Source :YouTube screenshot The autumn academy festival in National Defense Academy is similar to a sports festival. However, Bo-taoshi is a literal fight between youngsters, whose shoulders bare the burden of the security of Japan, and a town sports fesitval comes no where close to this level of brutality. The game is a team sport played by battalions. Each battalion, both the attacking and the defending side, consists of 150 people. The rules are simple: the pole, which is the target of attack, is erected at the center of the field and the attacking side wins if they manage to make it fall within 2 minutes. The defending students, equipped with headgear, first surround the pole and 1 person climbs to the upper end of the pole. Next, 4 students climb to the second stage. This can be seen from 0:10 in the video. At the fire of the starting pistol, the attacking battalion charges fiercely to the pole. This is shown from 1:11 in the video. The defending battalion prevents the charge, and the fight, quite literally, is on. The student at the top of the pole is forcefully brought down from 1:47, and you can see the ferocious onslaught of the attacking side as they attempt to knock the pole down. Some of the students shed tears after the competition, showing that this is the result of the rigorous training they do every day. Becoming the champion is an irreplaceable honor for them. Simple, Yet Complex! Bo-Taoshi and Its Refined Tactics Source :YouTube screenshot At a glance, the attack may seem like a reckless charge, but, in fact, it is thoroughly planned out into a sophisticated strategy. The defending battalion, too, consists of the robust and trained students of the National Defense Academy, so a reckless charge would easily be taken in stride. Because of this, the offense and defense plan out their tactics and act accordingly during the 2-minute game. Here, we'll introduce some basic strategies used in Bo-taoshi. ・Offense Scrum: The attacking battalion forms a scrum and leads the charge toward the pole. The scrum acts as stepping stones after the charge so pole attackers can jump over the barrier and get closer to the top of the pole. Pole attackers: Attackers who jump at the pole and attempt to bring it down. General support attackers: Do anything they can to weaken the defense of the defending battalion. ・Defense Pole support: Hold the pole in the upright position and keep it from being brought down. Ninja: This is the single man at the top of the pole who tries to kick off the pole attackers jumping onto the pole. Killers: Harass and interrupt the attacking enemies. Scrum Disablers: Do whatever they can to invalidate the scrum of the attacking battalion. The Warriors of the Future! Summary of Bo-Taoshi The National Defense Academy’s autumn festival, the ‘Founding of the Academy Memorial Festival,’ which is introduced in this video, is a very important event for the academy. On the day of the event, the academy will be open to the public and anyone can walk around campus. Booths and stands will open inside the property which make for a lively and exciting atmosphere perfect for a school festival. The main event is of course Bo-taoshi, the specialty of the National Defense Academy! Many people visit just for the sake of watching it! Battalions of 150 people brawl over the pole, punching and kicking, and the battalions wear shirts of different colors so that people can see what’s happening more easily. Spectators cheer on the team they want to win with a massive cheer or, at other times, by screaming. Please take your time and enjoy the spectacular game of Bo-taoshi shown throughout the video. 【Official Website】National Defense Academy of Japan – Ministry of Defense・Self-Defense Force https://www.mod.go.jp/nda/english/index.html

A Look at Kyoto and Its History This video, titled “The Night Scene of Kyoto (SONY a7S2 4K Pilotfly H2 Gimbal)” (京都の夜動画 - The Night Scene of Kyoto (SONY a7S2 4K Pilotfly H2 ジンバル)), was released by “video channel.” It showcases the scenery of Kyoto at night in 4K ultra-HD resolution. What does Kyoto, one of Japan's most popular tourist destinations, look like at night? Kyoto originally prospered as the capital of Japan from the Heian Period (794-1185 A.D.), with many shrines and temples, such as Fushimi Inari Shrine, Kiyomizudera Temple, and Kodaiji Temple, and Mt. Inari was a symbol of mountain worship. Kyoto is a city for adults where you can experience the flow of time differently from other big cities. Gion – A Beautiful Nightscape in Kyoto Photo：Gion, Kyoto There are many tourist attractions in Kyoto, but Gion is the place to be to see Kyoto at night. Gion is the name of the area in front of Yasaka Shrine, and it has developed into a historic red-light district. It is also famous as a nightlife district for adults, where tourists and business tycoons from Kyoto and abroad come to have fun at night. You can see geiko walking around the area at 1:14 in the video. Kyoto's Gion area alone is full of popular tourist attractions, but the slope that appears throughout the video is Nineizaka, the approach to Kiyomizudera Temple. There is a dangerous legend that if you fall on Nineizaka, you'll die within two years, so please be very careful when sightseeing! Another famous approach to Kiyomizudera Temple is Sanneizaka. The slope is lined with many stores, cafes, and restaurants, making it a great spot for eating, dates, and even going for a drive. Hanamikoji Street in Southern Gion, Kyoto Photo：Gion's Hanamikoji Street, Kyoto The main nighttime sightseeing spot in the Gion area where you're most likely to see geiko and maiko is the 1km-long Hanamikoji Street, located on the south side of Gion. Hanamikoji Street stretches from Sanjo Street to Kenninji Temple, centering on Shijo Street, which is bordered by Yasaka Shrine's Nishiromon Gate. Also along this street is the site of the annual "Miyako Odori," a dance festival where maiko and geiko compete in artistic competitions, and Tsudaro, a long-established restaurant with a reputation for its Kyoto-style cuisine. Fushimi Inari Shrine's Omokaruishi (Heavy or light stone): Will Your Wish Come True? Photo：The thousand torii gates of Fushimi Inari Shrine, Kyoto A tourist spot in Kyoto that is rapidly gaining popularity among foreigners is Fushimi Inari Shrine, famous for its shrine approach lined with vermilion torii gates. At the inner shrine, there is a stone called "Omokaruishi," and legend has it that if you lift it and it feels lighter than you expected, your wish will come true, but if it feels heavier than you expected, your wish is not yet ready to be fulfilled. Fushimi Inari is the head shrine of all the Inari shrines in Japan, and the shrine is dedicated to foxes as opposed to the usual komainu (guardian dogs). Shinbashi Street - The Best Place To Enjoy the Old-Fashioned District of Gion Photo：Gion's Shinbashi Street, Kyoto Shinbashi Street (Shinbashi-dori) is an area where old fashioned streets and lanterns still remain. This is the area that retains the strongest traces of Gion, which flourished as a red-light district during the Edo Period (1603-1868 A.D.), and is known as a good place for night sightseeing in Kyoto. This street is also known as a famous location for viewing cherry blossoms and attracts many tourists in the spring. Nothing can beat taking a midnight stroll through Kyoto under the illuminated cherry blossoms during the cherry blossom season. Summary of Kyoto’s Popular Sightseeing Locations Photo：Yasaka-no-To and Kyoto Tower, Kyoto In addition to the Gion area, there are many other tourist attractions in Kyoto. There's the famous Yasaka-no-To, a three-storied pagoda which is the symbol of Kyoto, Kyoto Tower, which offers a panoramic view of Kyoto from its observation deck, and Shogunzuka's Seiryuden Hall, a new landmark built in 2014 at the top of Higashiyama. One of the most popular power spots for finding love, especially among women, is "Ryu no Atago" (龍の愛宕池, Dragon Pond) located at Arashiyama Station off the Keifuku Dentetsu Arashiyama Line. To get here, you must pass through Kimono Forest, where 600 Kyo Yuzen pillars line the street. Kyoto is a beautiful tourist destination, and in order to protect the scenery of the city, there are rules and regulations that prohibit littering, eating, drinking, and smoking outside of designated areas, so please be sure to follow these rules and enjoy your time sightseeing in Kyoto at night! 【Tripadvisor】Kyoto’s Gion District https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g298564-d321451-Reviews-Gion-Kyoto_Kyoto_Prefecture_Kinki.html

Takeda Castle - A Castle in the Sky! The video introduced here is titled "Castle in the Sky｜An Aerial View of the Takeda Castle Ruins." It was produced by "e-picture production.com," and showcases beautiful images of Takeda castle in Hyogo prefecture taken by drone. Takeda Castle is located in Asago, Hyogo Prefecture, and is a famous tourist attraction known as the "Machu Picchu of Japan" and "Castle in the Sky." As you can see from 0:04 in the video, early in the morning, you can enjoy the fantastic scenery of the castle shrouded in mist. Tourists who come to visit the site cheer at and admire the spectacular view. About Takeda Castle - A Castle in the Sky Source :YouTube screenshot The Takeda Castle Ruins, a mountain castle located at the top of the 353.7-meter-tall Mt. Kojo to the west of Ritsunkyou, is a stone walled fortress with a central tower, with the inner and outer citadels, the outer section of the castle, and the southern outer citadel arranged in a renkaku style. You can see a full view of the Takeda Castle Ruins at 0:51 in the video. It is also called "Torafusu Castle" as it looks like a tiger waiting in ambush (虎, "tora" means tiger, and 伏す "fusu" means to wait in ambush). Takeda Castle is a national historic site, an Important Cultural Property of Japan, and one of the "Top 100 castles of Japan." In 2012, the castle was recognized as a sacred place for lovers because of its fantastic scenery, suitable for marriage proposals. In Japan, there is a ruin called Bungo Takeda Castle in Kyushu, Oita prefecture as well. The History of Takeda Castle - A Castle in the Sky Photo：Hyogo Prefecture・Takeda Castle Ruins It is said that Takeda Castle was built during the Muromachi period (1336 to 1573 AD) and the first castle owner was Otagakishi, but the history remains unclear to this day. The castle was the scene of many battles during the during the Warring States period (c. 1467 to 1615) and the Azuchi-Momoyama periods (1573 to 1598). Particularly famous are the Onin War, which started with the battle between Hosokawa Katsumoto and Yamana Sozen, and the Battle of Takeda Castle, in which Oda Nobunaga dispatched Hideyoshi Hashiba (Toyotomi Hideyoshi) to the area and later attacked Kozuki Castle and Tajima. Takeda Castle was later destroyed in the Battle of Sekigahara and was abandoned by the Edo Shogunate. Summary of Takeda Castle Photo：Hyogo Prefecture・Takeda Castle Ruins The beautiful sea of clouds at Takeda Castle is nothing short of breathtaking and would definitely look great on your Instagram! Be aware that the view will greatly depend on the weather, so be sure to check out the forecast before your visit. We recommend visiting with a feeling of "if you're lucky you'll see it, if not, it's still beautiful." In addition to the sea of clouds, you can also enjoy the beautiful cherry blossoms in the spring and the autumn colors in the fall at Takeda Castle. We also recommend stopping at the nearby Takeda-jimachi-dori, taking a bus tour, or staying at a guest house or hotel. ◆Outline information of Takeda Castle◆ 【Address】169 Takeda Kojoyama, Wadayama Town, Asago City, Hyogo Prefecture 【Access】10 minutes by Sky Bus from JR Takeda Station, 15 minutes by car from JR Wadayama Station 【Hours】Varies by season 【Admission fee】Adults 500 yen, free for junior high school students and younger 【Parking】Available 【Official Website】National Historic Site "Takeda Castle Ruins" Official Homepage | Asago City http://www.city.asago.hyogo.jp/takeda/ 【TripAdvisor】 Takeda Castle Ruins https://www.tripadvisor.com/ShowUserReviews-g1022837-d1239443-r23802865-Takeda_Castle_Ruins-Asago_Hyogo_Prefecture_Kinki.html

Introducing the Bullet Trains of Japan! This video is called "Bullet trains from around the nation in 38 minutes" (全国の新幹線を38分で見る)　Shinkansen 2018 (シンカンセン 2018)　Super-Express Shinkansen). We especially recommend it to Japanese bullet train fans. The first bullet train in Japan was introduced on October 1st, 1964. They have been evolving throughout their long history. There are many varieties of trains, and you'll never get bored with them. Be sure to watch the full video to enjoy all of the eye-catching bullet trains to the fullest. Types and Nicknames of Bullet Trains! Photo：Doctor Yellow For Tohoku Shinkansen Lines, they use the ‘Hayabusa’ carriages shown from 00:34 and 02:46, the ‘Komachi’ carriages shown from 05:31 and ‘Yamabiko’ shown from 07:40 and 08:31. Tsubasa shown from 10:28 is a carriage used in the Yamagata Shinkansen Line. Toreiyu Tsubasa shown from 13:51 is a special tourist carriage. Max Toki shown from 14:40 and the Genbi Shinkansen shown from 16:17 belong to the Joetsu Shinkansen Line. The Kagayaki shown from 16:50 is from the Hokuriku Shinkansen Line. East Eyes shown from 18:44 and Doctor Yellow shown from 19:21 are carriages that inspect the railway tracks. You don’t really come across these carriages, so if you see one, it's considered very lucky. The Tokaido Shinkansen Line that runs through Tokyo Station and Shinosaka Station owns the Nozomi Shinkansen shown from21:14, Kodama shown from 24:46 and 28:02 and Rail Star shown from 31:20 in the video. Tsubame is shown from 33:36 and Mizuho by Kyushu Shinkansen Line is shown from 35:01 in the video. Trivia and Facts About Japan's Bullet Trains! Photo：Shinkansen The definition of bullet trains is ‘railway trains that can run at speeds exceeding 200 km/h. The maximum speed of the current bullet trains in operation is 285km/h. However, there may be a bullet train that exceeds 300 km/h in the future. The history of bullet trains goes back to October 1st 1964 when the dream super-fast express Tokaido Shinkansen Line was launched. Japan has been a leading player in the world of bullet train development for more than 50 years, improving speed, comfort and safety of the trains. In 2027, as a replacement for bullet trains, high-speed linear motor cars are scheduled to launch between Tokyo and Nagoya. In addition to the bullet train lines shown in the video, there are various bullet train routes throughout Japan such as the Hokkaido bullet trains, Akita bullet trains and the San'yo bullet trains. There are also special routes in Japan where bullet trains run on the local train lines such as the Hakata Minami Line and the Joetsu Line. Summary of Bullet Trains in Japan There are many kinds of bullet trains in Japan. Each line has a different color and carriage shape. Find your favorite bullet train as you watch the video. If you are traveling in Japan, you should definitely use a bullet train for long journeys to enjoy the ride comfortably and in a timely manner. When you take a bullet train, check the route map, timetable, fares, price of ticket books, reservations for reserved seats and Green carriage seats, vacancy of non-reserved seats and operational statuses on the official website as well as the Midorino Madoguchi Ticket Offices at large stations. 【Official Website】JR East：East Japan Railway https://www.jreast.co.jp/e/

Introducing a Lively Shichimi-Togarashi Vendor This video introduces a vendor selling a spice called "Shichimi Tougarashi" (七味唐がらし, a 7 flavored peppercorn blend), in Asakuksa, Tokyo. In this video, you can hear the sales pitch speeches of the peppercorn vendor at a booth during a festival. His light-hearted sales pitch while mixing the seven-flavored spice is sure to have both your eyes and mouth watering! Watch and Listen to the "Shichimi-Togarashi" Vendor! Source :YouTube screenshot As shown in the video, you can watch the performance of the salesman at his food stall repeating his sales pitch while blending and selling his spices. The 7 different spices are layered side by side like a rainbow and blended beautifully- a process that gathers quite an audience. In the video, the male artisan repeats his sales pitch while blending the shichimi-togarashi, and the woman standing next to him swiftly wraps the merchandise to hand to the customers. Many tourists gather around the stall to catch a glimpse of the artisan’s amazing performance. In Japan, this type of sales pitch/vendor performance dates back to long ago. Summary of the Togarashi Salesman Did you enjoy the enchanting voice of the spice salesman? Shichimi-togarashi is an attractive addition to various Japanese dishes such as ochazuke (rice soaked with green tea, dashi, or hot water), eggs over rice, and tsukudani (seafood, meat or seaweed simmered in soy sauce and sugar). In addition to shichimi-togarashi being an everyday seasoning, it also makes for a great souvenir. If you haven't tried it before, be sure to pick up some shichimi-togarashi the next time you have the chance! If you watch this video after purchasing the product online, listening to the sales pitches might make you feel as if you bought it at an actual festival stall!

The Traditional Candy Sculpting Art of "Amezaiku Yoshihara" "Fujimaki Select Ginza Store" created this short documentary video in which an artisan of a Tokyo-based shop specializing in Amezaiku, "Amezaiku Yoshihara", demonstrates the traditional candy sculpting. The method for making Amezaiku is laid out in the short video. It's not subbed, but don't worry. The description given in this article will help you understand it, and we'll also explain its history as a popular street performance in Japan during the Edo period(1603-1868 A.D.). An artisan shop in Tokyo specializing in Amezaiku, "Amezaiku Yoshihara" draws even international attention. Not only the demonstrate sales, Yoshihara offers some enjoyable workshops designed to make us get familiar to the traditional art of candy sculpting. Amezaiku - From the Edo Period to the Present Photo：Amezaiku Amezaiku is mentioned in the old texts written during the Edo period. In the old days, Amezaiku artists were selling it on the streets or at festivals. This vestige is still seen today, demonstrated in the sale of Amezaiku at festivals or cultural events, which is commonplace in Japan. Mystical animals or flowers shaped by the artists' hands are particularly entertaining, especially among children. Yoshihara is committed not only to passing on the traditional art, but also to the tastes and qualities of the treats. How to Shape Candy Into a Maneki-neko (Beckoning Cat) Source :YouTube screenshot Amezaiku involves many steps but the whole process is done by hand. 1. The candy base is boiled until it becomes soft, then kneaded and pulled so as to have the proper appearance. (0:05-) 2. The candy ball is then formed into a ball and mounted on a stick (0:56-) Source :YouTube screenshot 3. Using their hands or other tools, the candy ball is then shaped into a cat. This sculpting step should be completed within 3 minutes before the candy cools and hardens again. (1:12-) 4. Heat is then applied using a burner to attach the tiny decorative heart to the cat. (2:06) Source :YouTube screenshot 5. The cat's face is painted with edible coloring. (2:43-) 6. The candy sculpted cat is completed. (3:53-) Information About Amezaiku Yoshihara "Amezaiku Yoshihara" opened in 2008 as the first shop in Japan dedicated to Amezaiku. The popular products such as rabbits, pandas, owls or shiba dogs are also available on their online shop. The price range of these miniature edible craftworks is from 700-1000 yen. How about getting some as a souvenir? they've got more than just ready-made candies as well. You can also pick from their catalogue and the candy maker will make it for you. It is also possible to hire them to demonstrate sales at festivals or events. Yoshihara offers candy sculpting workshops at the Yanaka branch. Participants are instructed to create 3 different Amezaiku crafts in an hour-long workshop. Summary of the Amezaiku Demonstration Video Source :YouTube screenshot In the video, an Amezaiku artist sculpts a Beckoning Cat with expert speed while giving a sales talk. Such conversations are also a part of the entertainment. Watch the video to learn the Japanese candy sculpting process ! ◆Amezaiku Yoshihara Sendagi Main Store◆ 【Address】 Tomoe Biru 1F, Sendagi 1-23-5 Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo (zip 113-0022) 【Access】3 minutes from Tokyo Metro Chiyoda Line Sendagi Station 【Hours】Mon, Wed -Fri 13:00 - 18:00 (the demonstrate sales till 17:00), Sat-Sun & Holidays 10:00 - 18:00 (the demonstrate sales till 17:00) 【Closures】Tuesdays (except statutory holidays that fall on Tuesday) 【Parking】 No dedicated parking lot (There are some paid parkings in the block) 【Telephone No】(+81) 03-6323-3319 【Official Website】Amezaiku Yoshihara https://ame-yoshihara.com/english/

Introducing Edo Castle! This video, titled “Edo Castle / Tokyo Imperial Palace in 1871 江戸城,” was produced by “LIT esperan.” It introduces Edo Castle through old photography. Edo Castle is said to be the “Number One” castle in Japan due to its size, the height of its castle tower, and the large dimensions of the palace. This article introduces the history of, and tourist spots around, Edo Castle ruins. Be sure to follow along with the video! Edo Castle existed until the Meiji Era (1868-1912), and so there are many photographs of it that still exist to this day. Before we go any further, take a second to look at the once magnificent appearance of Edo Castle in the video. Edo Castle: History Source :YouTube screenshot Edo Castle was a hirayama-style castle, built by Ota Dokan, a retainer of the Ogigayatsu Uesugi family, in 1457. Years later, Toyotomi Hideyoshi surrendered the castle, and during the Edo period (1603-1868), Tokugawa Ieyasu added to and renovated it. As a result, it became the largest castle in Japan. After it was used as the government center of the Tokugawa shogunate, it was handed over to the new Meiji era government in the 1st year of the Meiji Era (1868), and became the imperial palace in the 2nd year of the Meiji Era. This was referred to as “The Surrender of Edo Castle,” and “The Bloodless Fall of Edo.” In 1888, it became the Imperial Palace Castle, and in 1948 it was renamed as to "Tokyo Imperial Palace." Today, a section of the ruins of Edo Castle is still in use as the residence of the Emperor. The Places Related to Edo Castle in the Video Photo：Fujimi-yagura At the beginning of the video, a blue sky appears in the middle of Tokyo's skyscrapers. This is the center of the castle called the inner compound, and outside of that is the outer compound. You can see Asakusa Honganji, Sensoji Temple, Sakuradamon, Toranomon, Fujimi-yagura Ruins, Suidobashi, Shin-O'hashi, Sumida River, Hibiyamon, Asakusabashimon, Honmaru Otemon, Sakashita Gate, and Nishinomaru Nijyubashi from 0:38 in the video. These are popular spots that are well known even in the present day and are introduced through old photographs in the video. During the middle of the video, the last Tokugawa Shogun, Keiki Tokugawa can be seen from 2:05 and from 1:33, old maps showing the vicinity of Edo Castle, as well as blueprints of the castle tower, are also shown. Visiting Edo Castle Photo：Around Edo Castle Edo Castle is located in Tokyo's Chiyoda Ward and is about a 5-minute walk from JR Tokyo Station and Otemachi Station on the Tokyo Metro and Toei Subway lines. Parts of the Honmaru/Ninomaru/Sannomaru of Edo Castle are open to the public as the East Gardens of the Imperial Palace. Kitanomaru, is now Kitanomaru Park, and many people come here as tourists or joggers. The castle tower has been rebuilt 3 times, however, it was burned down and the plans for rebuilding it have stopped after the rebuilding of the tenshudai (the stone base). The remaining Edo Castle tenshudai can be seen even in the present day. When you visit the Imperial Palace, be sure to check out the O-bansho near the palace gates, the magnificent stone walls, the ruins of Matsu corridor, located in the inner palace, famous for its depiction in the story Chusingura. We also recommend going to see the inner palace, the ruins of Wadakuramon, the Sekishitsu (stone burial chamber), and the ruins of Chujakumon. There is also a guided tour to see the Imperial palace, so try to participate in this if you can. Summary of Edo Castle Photo：Edo Castle This video, “Edo Castle / Tokyo Imperial Palace in 1871 江戸城,” introduces many photos of Edo Castle from the beginning of the Meiji Era. You can also visit the Imperial Palace by submitting an application to the Imperial Household Agency. For more information, please visit the Imperial Household Agency's website. Edo Castle boasts the largest castle in Japan in terms of size, construction period, and height of the castle tower. Hopefully after reading this article introducing the history and tourist attractions of Edo Castle, we've piqued your interest in the historical location. 【Tripadvisor】The East Gardens of the Imperial Palace（Edo Castle Ruins） https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g1066443-d320625-Reviews-The_East_Gardens_of_the_Imperial_Palace_Edo_Castle_Ruin-Chiyoda_Tokyo_Tokyo_Prefe.html

Iheya Island, a Remote Island of Okinawa This video, titled "Beautiful Beach of Iheya Island! OKINAWA, JAPAN" (伊平屋島（沖縄離島）の絶景ビーチ前篇！OKINAWA,JAPAN), was uploaded by "K Japan Traveler." It shows spectacular views of Iheya Island (伊平屋島, Iheyajima), Noho Island (野甫島, Nohojima), and Izena Island (伊是名島, Izenajima), which are in northern Okinawa. As you can see in the video, Iheya Island has a beautiful cobalt blue ocean that you would never expect to find in Japan. A Look at Iheya Island Photo：Brown sugar, Okinawa Iheya Island is a long, narrow island located approximately 41 km north of the main island of Motobu, with a population of about 1,400 people including those on Noho Island. The island has specialties, such as dried fish, hitokuchi brown sugar, Terushi Rice, and Kachiwari brown sugar. There's also Kitase Rock, Yahe Rock, and a skerry called Erabu Rock around Iheya Island. "Torazu Rock" is a landmark of the island. You should visit Koshino Hiramatsu, Nento Hiramatsu and Mt. Kuba too. Things To Do on Iheya Island Photo：The ocean at Sugahama, Okinawa We recommend going sightseeing via rental car. The clear beaches, such as Kumaya Coast, Yonezaki Beach, Shioshitahama, and Kubayama Beach are the best place for sea bathing and fishing. From 0:37 in the video, you can see Kouri Island and Kouri Bridge, and from 1:40 in the video, you can see Noho Bridge, Noho Port, and a beautiful view. For sightseeing, there's Kumaya Cave, Iheya Tower, the Iheyason Board of Education History Ethnic Museum, Kubayama Light House, and Kami Ashagi. You can enjoy activities like the salt cruise at the World Salt Exploration Museum. For snorkeling to see coral reefs, book with Diving service North Island or Diving Shop JIN. Access to Iheya Island Photo：The ocean at Iheya Island, Okinawa Unfortunately, it's somewhat difficult to reach Iheya Island. You have to go from Naha Airport, on the main island of Okinawa, to Nakijin, and then take a ferry for 80 minutes. Because of that, there are not so many tourists, which means you can enjoy the natural scenery all to yourself! As you can see from 1:17 in the video, you can enjoy "Iheya Blue," a clear, blue sea, different from the main island of Okinawa. There are several hotels and restaurants on the island, so you can stay overnight as well as take a day trip, and there are buses running around the island, so as long as you check the bus schedules it's not so bad. Summary of Iheya Island Photo：The ocean at Iheya Island, Okinawa Iheya Island has beautiful beaches where you can feel the refreshing sea breeze. Check out the time schedule for the ferry, as well as prices and information about tides when you visit the amazing resort, Iheya Island! 【Tripadvisor】Iheya Island https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g1121620-d1373491-Reviews-Iheyajima_Island-Iheya_son_Shimajiri_gun_Okinawa_Prefecture.html