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

The Takaoka Copper Casting of Takaoka City, Toyama Prefecture – A Traditional Japanese Craft This video, titled "手技TEWAZA「高岡銅器」Takaoka Copper Casting," was produced by "Japan Traditional Crafts Aoyama Square." It introduces Takaoka Copper Casting, a traditional craft in Takaoka City, Toyama. Takaoka Copper Casting in Takaoka City, Toyama originates from a factory opened in the Edo period (1603 – 1868 AD) by Maeda Toshinaga in the Kaga Maeda Clan with the seven metal casters from Tamba, Kyoto, said to be the birthplace of metal casting. Most of the Takaoka Copper Casting products are related to Buddhist tools such as vases and a large part of the production process involves the attentive handiwork of artisans. The traditional Japanese craftsmanship is appreciated even outside of Japan. The Takaoka Great Buddha at Daibutsuji Temple (大佛寺, Daibutsu-ji) is said to be one of the most impressive pieces made by the Takaoka Copper Casting artisans. This is a rare video that introduces the production process of Takaoka Copper Casting. Please enjoy watching the craftsmanship of the Takaoka copper casting artisans. Takaoka Copper Casting: One of the Greatest Treasures in Japanese Culture- How It's Done Source :YouTube screenshot Takaoka Copper Casting is essentially produced with a metal casting technique where a piece of metal is melted at high temperature and poured into a mold to form the desired shape. Japanese metal casting techniques are highly recognized worldwide, and the metal casting of Takaoka City, Toyama is especially famous. Now, let's take a look at how Takaoka Copper Casting products are made. 1. Making the original model (0:18) Based on the blueprint, a prototype is created using wood, plaster, clay and resin. This prototype becomes the grand image of the final product. 2. Making the mold (0:29) A fire-resistant material is used for the original model, and a casting is made to pour the copper into. This is said to be the most important step. The mold made from casting sand is an example of exquisite craftsmanship. 3. Refining and melting (0:44) Refining refers to the process of removing impurities and increasing the purity of the metal. The refined metal is melted and liquefied at high temperatures.. The molten copper alloy reaches 1200 degrees Celsius in this process. 4. Casting (1:00) The refined molten copper is poured into the casting. 5. Removing the mold (1:23) The cooled and hardened copper is removed from the casting and the finishing process begins. 6. Polishing (1:48) The product is beautifully polished. 7. Coloring (2:05) After coloring and inlays are added, the work is complete! At 1:31 in the video, one of the Takaoka Copper Casting artisans explains “We hope that our Buddhist statues and monuments will convey what the customer had in mind, and will be loved.” The Art Pieces of Takaoka Copper Casting Gained Worldwide Popularity at the World Expo in Paris Source :YouTube screenshot A number of art pieces such as Buddhist statues and vases made using Takaoka Copper Casting were exhibited at the World Expo in Paris, and the name has come to be known around the world. These reason these artifacts are so beautifully shaped is because they were developed through producing bronze casting products adorned with carvings. In Takaoka City, Toyama, the descendants of the master craftsmen of the past have inherited the traditional crafting techniques and skills and have created many works of art. They continue to do so even today. Summary of Takaoka Copper Casting Source :YouTube screenshot The entire process of Takaoka Copper Casting has been done with the careful handiwork of artisans for more than 400 years. "We want to pass down the 400-year-old technique to the next generation," says one of the Takaoka Copper Casting artisans at 2:26 in the video. To inherit this valuable Japanese culture, Takaoka City has held workshops of Takaoka Copper Casting to train potential artisans. Miyuki-cho in Takaoka City has the Takaoka Copper Casting Museum where you can see and purchase products. Some large bronze statues are valued at millions of yen (tens of thousands of dollars). Takaoka Copper Casting products are also available at online marketplaces such as Rakuten and Amazon, and include ochoko (small sake cups), ornaments, paperweights, and more. The most popular ones are made by Takenaka Bronze Works Co.,Ltd. The company donated a 1/100 scale bronze casting model to Zuiryuji Temple (瑞龍寺, Zuiryuji), a temple designated as a National Treasure, in Takaoka City. The temple is one of the most popular tourist spots in Takaoka City renowned for its spring event of lighting up the temple, where the bones of Oda Nobunaga and his son are buried. Tourists can visit the grave of Maeda Toshinaga, who was deeply involved in the history of Takaoka Copper Castings, by way of a path called Hocchodo, lined with stone lanterns. In recent years, nine companies that are members of the Takaoka Copper Industry Cooperative Society have made original "Takaoka Wind Chimes" and sold them at the Takaoka Regional Industry Center, Takaoka Mikurumayama Museum, and shops where crafts are sold. 【Official website】Japan Traditional Crafts Aoyama Square https://kougeihin.jp/en/

Introducing Kutani Ware! This article introduces Kutani ware alongside the video "Traditional Japanese Crafts・Kutani Ware Glazing" (日本の伝統工芸品・九谷焼の染め付け). Kutani ware started around the Edo Period (1603-1868) in Kanazawa city, Ishikawa in Japan's Hokuriku region. It was originally called Kokutani ware. Today, Komatsu-city, Kaga-city, and Noumi-city are famous for the production of Kutani ware. The piece in the video is by Kamide Chouzaemon, one of Japan's leading Kutani pottery makers. The video is only about a minute long, but it shows the amazing dyeing technique used to make the beautiful, traditional Japanese pottery. How Kutani Ware Is Made Source :YouTube screenshot The signature liquid cobalt oxide is used to dye Kutani ware, which gives us a feel for Japanese culture. Kutani ware is produced by using a thin brush to draw precise patterns which requires the skills of a master craftsman. Patterns are drawn on the Kutani ware, using the brown cobalt oxide as a base material, after which they are fired in a kiln. From there, the color of the brown cobalt oxide changes into a beautiful shade of blue. This method of painting Kutani ware using blue, green, yellow, purple, and red within its patterns is called Kutani Gosai. Where to Purchase the Kutani Ware Kutani ware, made by famous craftsmen and artists, is considered an art, and can be rather expensive. However, there is some Kutani ware sold at reasonable prices. Kutani ware can be viewed and purchased at museums and porcelain/ceramics markets in Kanazawa. They have Kutani ware bowls, small plates, teacups, china bowls, tea pots, vases, and more. You can buy different pieces and incorporate them into your daily life. Their products are also available on the internet through retailers such as Amazon and Rakuten. Enjoying a Kutani ware demo at a workshop also makes for a memorable experience. By adding Kutani ware to your table, you can appreciate Japanese traditional culture more deeply. Summary of Japan's Traditional Kutani Ware Source :YouTube screenshot As you can see in the video, each piece of Kutani ware is hand dyed by a craftsman. The dyeing process of Kutani ware has been handed down for hundreds of years. Be sure to watch the video to see the amazing craftsmanship of Kutani ware craftsmen.

"Dagashiya," Japan's Classic Watering Holes For Kids This video, titled "[Japan's Old-Time Dagashiya] A Look at Toda in Fukaya, Saitama" (【昔ながらの駄菓子屋さん】埼玉県深谷市 の 「とうだ」ってどんな所？), was released by "Donna tokoro? TV" (どんな所?TV). "Dagashiya" are something that many of those who were born in Showa era Japan are familiar with. Dagashi are inexpensive snacks made and sold for children. They're essentially the equivalent of penny candy in the U.S. Each product is small and sold in small portions, many of them costing only 5 to 30 yen each. This makes it possible for children to buy them with their allowances. Many of the snacks come with extras or winning "lottery" tickets, and if you ever experienced this kind of candy culture as a kid you know how much fun it was. In this article, we take you inside Japan's "Dagashiya," the once popular hangouts for children. Be sure to follow along with the video as it explores "Toda," a Showa retro dagashiya in Fukaya (深谷市, Fukaya-Shi), Saitama (埼玉県, Saitama-Ken), in Japan's Kanto Region (関東地方, Kanto-Chiho). The History of Japan's Dagashi Photo：Dagashiya Do you know where the name "dagashi" comes from? It's actually a term that refers to all sorts of sweets made with unrefined brown sugar. Since refined white sugar and granulated sugar were expensive raw materials back in the day, it's said that making dagashi started as an attempt to reduce the cost of materials as much as possible and to make snacks using unrefined brown sugar that common people and children could eat with a sense of security. Because of this, dagashi became very popular among children, and it's said that during the Edo period (1603-1868 A.D.), many candy shops specializing in dagashi were established in various towns. Variations on the term "dagashi" also increased, and it became common to refer to inexpensive sweets for children as dagashi, in addition to sweets made with brown sugar. These are the roots of today's dagashiya shops. Let's take a look at some traditional dagashi. ・Sendai-dagashi Nowadays, it's considered a high-class Japanese sweet, but in the Edo period, it was a popular snack for the common people. Misopan (Miso bread) and karumera-yaki are typical Sendai sweets. ・Kokusen, Kankan-bo A typical roasted grain candy made from soybeans, sesame, and soybean flour. ・Kuro-bo A chunky textured, bread-like pastry made from flour, brown sugar, and eggs. ・Fu-chan A kind of fugashi (dried wheat gluten coated with sugar made from sugarcane). ・Karume-yaki Today, it's less common to see them at food stalls at festivals, but they're a type of dagashi with nice crunchy texture. Karumera-yaki from Sendai is the same thing. Photo：Konpeito ・Konpeito A very venerable confectionary that even the Imperial family has a custom of distributing during celebrations. As white sugar became more affordable, dagashiya stores began to carry it as well. ・Tirol Choco A prominent product that's still popular in dagashiya today. ・Umai-bo Considered an ace-class dagashi. ・Yotchan-Ika (Seasoned Squid) An excellent snack for drinks. ・Kyabetsu-Taro A popular snack that is now sold in convenience stores as part of a renewed boom in dagashi. There are a lot more popular dagashi, such as ・POTATO FRY ・Fruit-Mochi ・Tara-Tara-Shitenja-neyo (Fish paste chips) The Dagashi Sold at Toda, a Dagashiya in Fukaya, Saitama. Photo：Dagashiya The dagashi store in Fukaya, Saitama, shown in the video, has been run by one woman by herself since its opening. The appearance of the store is that of a dagashiya that was a familiar place for children to hang out during Showa era Japan. The store's name paint is now faded, and the red tent curtain on the roof, a symbol of a dagashiya, has also faded, but the entrance is lined with many gacha-pon machines, and the store is filled with nostalgic snacks, ice candies, toys, and stationery. The world may change but this sweets shop keeps on doing what it always has - selling candy. The video shows some of the most popular dagashi items that have been loved by children throughout the years. For those in their 40s and older, these items are a reminder of the good old days! They include Kamayaki Santaro, super ball lottery, medaka-chan game, candies, Maburu-gum, bubble gum, "Cola ball" (Coke Jell-O), yogurt, Choco-bat-Ace (home run bar), "lotteries" (if you win, you get snacks or toys), and more! However, the times have changed, now Reiwa era. However, the times have changed, and the wrapping paper of the candy is now printed with characters such as Fukka-chan, a mascot character, or characters from popular TV anime, clearly reflecting the current times. "Toda" is still a popular dagashi store where adult customers visit with their children. Summary of Japan's Dagashiya, the Once Popular Hangouts for Kids Photo：Kawagoe Candy Alley, Saitama Prefecture From the end of the Showa period to the Heisei period, the dagashi industry temporarily declined, and the number of dagashiya stores decreased drastically. Instead of dagashiya stores however, mass merchandisers (such as Niki's Confectionery, Kobe Bussan, etc.) that sell assorted dagashi in large quantities have become popular on retro shopping streets such as Ameyoko in Ueno. This has sparked a revival in dagashi. Besides these stores, self-service all-you-can-eat Dagashi-Bars or Dagashiya-Bar are also becoming popular. In these bars, you can enjoy a wide variety of delicious snacks, such as okaki (rice crackers) and surume-ika (squid), which go great together with drinks. In Kawagoe (川越市, Kawagoe-Shi), Saitama, there's "Dagashiya Yokocho" (Candy Alley) lined with dagashi manufacturers and wholesalers, making it a highly popular tourist spot in Saitama. The popularity of dagashi is still strong online, and there are even dagashi stores that specialize in online shopping! Consider experiencing the nostalgia of Showa Japan with the delicious dagashi of Japan's good-old days!

Sendai, Miyagi's Traditional Craft- "Tamamushi Lacquerware" This promotional video titled, "Tamamushi Lacquerware, a Traditional Craft of Miyagi Prefecture"（宮城県指定伝統的工芸品「玉虫塗」), introduces "Tamamushi Lacquerware" a traditional craft of Sendai. It was created by TohokuKogei Showroom. The video lasts for only about two-minutes, so it is perfect for those who want to quickly get to know the history and process of Tamamushi Lacquerware. This article will give you the detailed information on the history of, and facts about Tamamushi Lacquerware alongside the video. Tamamushi Lacquerware is produced in Sendai City in Miyagi Prefecture which is located in Japan’s Tohoku Region; it has a wide range of contemporary products that are sure to please foreign visitors. A Tamamushi Lacquer keepsake box was introduced as an official product of the 2020 Tokyo Olympics. Appreciate the beauty and master craftsmanship behind Tamamushi Lacquerware, the renowned traditional artwork of Japanese culture, through the video. The History of Tamamushi Lacquerware Source :YouTube screenshot Tamamushi Lacquerware is produced in Sendai, Miyagi Prefecture in Japan's Tohoku region. It's very unique, and its stunning glazed finish resulted in it being named "Tamamushi (Jewel beetle)” since they reflect light in the same way a jeweled beetle’s wings do. Tamamushi Phoenix Maki-e (0:11) is another highly regarded type of art. The origin of Tamamushi Lacquerware dates back to a time when they were developed as “exports” at the National Tohoku Craftworks Institute in Sendai in 1932. “TohokuKogei” acquired the patent license in 1939 and has continued creation since. In 1985, Tamamushi lacquer ware was designated as a Miyagi Traditional Craft. Many products with modern designs, such as tumblers and wine glasses, are popular as Japanese souvenirs for visitors to Japan and have become part of Japanese life as a specialty of Sendai, Miyagi Prefecture. The Production Process of Tamamushi Lacquerware Source :YouTube screenshot Just like other lacquerware, The production process of Sendai's Tamamushi Lacquerware begins with making the foundations; they apply lacquer, then polish the lacquerware over and over until the surface is incredibly smooth. Silver dust is spread on a base coating of lacquerware, followed by a coating of colorful red and green lacquer. This process of repeated polishing is what makes it possible for lacquerware to emit it's unique, beautiful gloss. When the lacquer dries, light reflects through the silver underneath. The video shows a craftman spreading silver powder on lacquerware and polishing them. You can also see burgundy-colored lacquer being sprayed on lacquerware at 1:07. The Price and Product Lines of Tamamushi Lacquerware Source :YouTube screenshot Their wide range of products includes trays, vases, teacups, and music boxes, and there are also small hand mirrors, bookmarks, chopsticks, ballpoint pens, and fountain pens. The finished products can be viewed at 1:57. A large metal vase costs at least 80,000 yen, but hand mirrors and chopsticks are quite affordable and make great gifts. They are 1,200 yen and 800 yen respectively. They also launched a collaboration item with the popular Pokemon, Lapras, in 2019. TohokuKogei, introduced in the video, has a showroom in Aoba-ku, Sendai, Miyagi Prefecture. You can purchase regular items and new items such as processed glassware there. You can also find the “Shimanuki head office of Kokeshi” in Aoba-ku, and you can shop for Tamamushi lacquerware there as well. You can also find these items via various online shops such as Rakuten and Amazon. Summary- Attractions of Tamamushi Lacquerware- This video shows the production process and techniques of lacquerware, as well as the natural surroundings of Sendai. If you are interested in the world of Japanese traditional lacquerware, which shines like the wings of a jewel beetle, definitely don't miss this video! 【Official Website】The Head Office of “Tamamushi Lacquerware,” TohokuKogei http://www.t-kogei.co.jp/en/

This video, titled "A Tour of Japan's Castles: 160 Castles, Including Some of Japan's Top 100 Castles" (日本の城めぐり～日本100名城を含む160城), was released by "S. ENDO." It's said that there used to be more than 25,000 castles in Japan. They ranged from mountain castles to flat castles. This video introduces castles (or castle ruins) from all eras, from ancient times to modern times. There are a whopping 160 castles in all. Some of these castles include Japan's top 100 castles, castle towers, and some of Japan's three greatest mountain castles. When you watch this video of castles from Hokkaido to Okinawa, you'll see that the word "castle" refers to a variety of forms. However, the era with the most castles was the Warring States period. Today, when we hear the word "castle," we think of castles from this era.

Introducing the Newly Renovated Tokyo Kaikan This video, titled "To the New Tokyo Kaikan" (新生東京會舘へ), is a PR video released by "Tokyo Kaikan" to announce the reopening of "Tokyo Kaikan" on January 8, 2019. In this article, we'll introduce the charms of the newly renovated Tokyo Kaikan in Chiyoda, Tokyo alongside the video. The video shows the charm of the new Tokyo Kaikan, which combines traditional tastes and hospitality with newness and modernity, in line with the renewal concept of "NEWCLASSICS" = "new and traditional." The Newly Renovated Tokyo Kaikan Source :YouTube screenshot Tokyo Kaikan, which opened its first building in 1922 as a world-class location for social gatherings has underwent massive renovations to prepare to celebrate its 100th anniversary in 2022. The newly renovated Tokyo Kaikan opened in January 2019 as a commercial complex facility with banquet halls, restaurants, cafes, and a wedding venue. Tokyo Kaikan is within walking distance from Tokyo Station, Yurakucho Station, Nijubashimae Station, and Hibiya Station, and has very convenient transportation access. Restaurants and Dining at the Newly Renovated Tokyo Kaikan Source :YouTube screenshot The new Tokyo Kaikan has eight restaurants, as well as shops and cafes. The French restaurant "Prunier", which has been loved since the founding of Tokyo Kaikan, welcomes Chef Hiroyuki Matsumoto, who has worked at three-star restaurants in France and who will breathe new life into the establishment while maintaining the traditional flavors. The French restaurant "Prunier" can be seen at 1:15 in the video. The newly opened restaurants are the all-day dining "Rossini Terrace" and the Teppanyaki restaurant "kai". Also, at "Sweets Boutique," you can find beautiful cakes made with seasonal fruits and "Hyotan cream puff." Facilities at the Newly Renovated Tokyo Kaikan" Source :YouTube screenshot The large banquet hall "Rose" that can accommodate up to 2000 people, which can be seen from 1:06 in the video, has been luxuriously renewed and upgraded with the latest equipment. There are also up to 10 small and medium-sized banquet halls that can be used for parties and meetings. Stories of Celebrities Who Love Tokyo Kaikan From 2:50in the video, one celebrity talks about his feelings for the new Tokyo Kaikan. Second generation kabuki actor Matsumoto Hakuo mentions "I would like them to retain the good aspects of the old Tokyo Kaikan where you were able to relax." Author Mizuki Tsujimura says, "I want the new building to be my favorite place, second only to my home in Tokyo." Summary of the Newly Renovated Tokyo Kaikan Source :YouTube screenshot As you can see in the video, the charm of the new Tokyo Kaikan is that it has been renovated while preserving the traditions that made it a beloved place for social gatherings. In addition to the restaurants and banquet facilities mentioned above, weddings and wedding ceremonies are also popular, as well as cooking schools that teach the flavors of Tokyo Kaikan from beginner to advanced level. If you're looking to enjoy dinner, lunch, parties, or a wedding in a luxurious space, be sure to check out this video and experience the splendor of the new Tokyo Kaikan. Also, don't forget to visit the official website for prices and reservations. ◆Tokyo Kaikan◆ 【Address】3-2-1 Marunouchi, Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo, 100-0005 Japan 【Hours】8:30 - 17:00 (November 16 - March: 9:00 - 16:00) 【Access】A 10-minute walk from the Marunouchi South Exit of Tokyo Station 【Official Website】Tokyo Kaikan https://www.kaikan.co.jp/en/ 【Tripadvisor】Tokyo Kaikan https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g14129528-d15745859-Reviews-Tokyo_Kaikan-Marunouchi_Chiyoda_Tokyo_Tokyo_Prefecture_Kanto.html

This video, titled "[Speed Correction + Color Correction] Life in Japan in 1919 Revisited in Color" (【速度修正 + カラー補正】カラー化映像でよみがえる1919年の日本の生活), was released by "Pearbook." This video uses a special technology to colorize old Japanese black and white films using AI. The video shows Japan in 1919, the Taisho period. In addition to scenes of Japanese people wearing kimono, the film also shows scenes of markets and interactions with the Ainu people at that time. It also includes images of tourist destinations that are still popular today, such as Matsushima, Hakodate, and Nikko. The ability to see in color what Japan was like more than 100 years ago, before imaging technology was developed, is quite a groundbreaking development!

This video, titled "Five Legendary Japanese Swords! an Introduction to Okanehira and Other Swords Designated National Treasures [Japanese Sword Series 2]" (現存する伝説の日本刀５選！大包平など国宝に指定される刀まとめ【日本刀シリーズ２】), was released by "Ranking Dynamite" (ランキング・ダイナマイト). In the history of Japan, there have been many Japanese swords considered masterpieces, but there are very few Japanese swords that have survived through the ages. In this video, you can see some of the most famous Japanese swords that have been carefully preserved to this day. Okadagiri, owned by Oda Nobunaga, Masamune, made by a master craftsman, Sosan Samoji, which is said to have been a favorite of Imagawa Yoshimoto, and Raikiri, which is said to have been used to cut lightning. The most valuable sword is the Okanehira, which is said to have been made with the most advanced technology of the time. Check out the video to see some of the beautiful Japanese swords that have been designated national treasures.

This video, titled "[Xbox 360] Tenchu Senran OP" (【Xbox360】天誅 千乱 OP), was released by SugarWave. This video contains the OP of Tenchu Senran (Z), a game in the Tenchu series that has been around since 1998. The game features a series of fascinating characters that will keep you coming back for more. The music used adds to the atmosphere of the game. Although the game was released in 2006, the beautiful graphics are worth taking a look at. The OP is both cool and beautiful. If you've never played it before, consider checking it out! There's a good chance it'll become an all-time favorite!

This video, titled "Parkour Ninja Assassins" was released by TokyoCatch. Three ninja assassins show off their dynamic moves to catch a thief in Tokyo. When most people hear "Japanese culture," they think of ninjas. If you like ninjas, action movies, and historical dramas, consider checking out the video! It's only 4 minutes long, so you can enjoy it in your free time. At 2:48, you can see the ninja jumping from one building to another. The real highlight is at 3:00, though. You can enjoy a heated battle between a ninja and a thief.

This video, titled "Iga Ninja Group Ashura (2) "Kama & Blowgun" Kunoichi Ninja" (伊賀忍者集団阿修羅（２）くノ一忍者の技　「鎌＆仕込み笛＆吹き矢」), was released by "jon kabuki." Many awesome ninja techniques are shown in this video! Although it's a short video, the amazing skills of this kunoichi are well worth the watch. Her skills with kama are especially impressive. If you like powerful female warriors, be sure to check it out! Also, the way the ninja carry themselves in a confrontation with the Kunoichi Ninja is also something to behold. If you are interested, be sure to take a look at the Iga Ninja techniques with your own eyes!

This video, titled "Ninja High School Girl - Awesome Moves in a School Uniform - Japanese school girl chase #ninja" (忍者女子高生 | 制服で大回転 | japanese school girl chase #ninja), was released by "Suntory Official Channel (SUNTORY)" (サントリー公式チャンネル （SUNTORY）). In this video, a high school girl in her school uniform is seen moving around the school like a ninja! You'll be surprised at how light and agile she is while being chased, and how truly ninja-like she is, using makibishi and kawarimi. These aren't your everyday "cute" high school girls, these girls have an air of stylish and cool just like that of a ninja! Be sure to check out the awesome acrobatics of the ninja girls in the video!

Samurai Armor of the Sengoku Period! "How To Wear The Samurai Armor" is a video showing, you guessed it, how to wear samurai armor. There are a lot of people interested in samurai armor from Japan's Warring States Period (1467-1615 AD). Shibuya Samurai Armor Photo Studio, that produced this video, offers an armor photography course and a street photography course in Shibuya, where you can enjoy becoming a Japanese samurai for a photo shoot. The Armor of the Warring States Period Photo：Samurai Procession Armor refers to the equipment worn by samurai and military commanders of Japan's warring states period, and famous warlords of such as Oda Nobunaga and Toyotomi Hideyoshi. Japanese armor was traditionally made by an armourer. As shown at 4:46 in the video, the samurai carries a Japanese sword on an armored girdle, and on his back he carries equipment such as bows and arrows. Samurai wore this same armor in the warring states period while riding into battle on horseback. The unique characteristic of Japanese samurai armor is its rich color. It's a unique and cool look quite different from the armor of ancient western knights. Types of Samurai Armor Source :YouTube screenshot As you can see in the video, armor from Japan's warring states period has several components. After putting on the large iron plate-body, and tosei-gusoku, the warrior would then equip weapons such as spears, bows and arrows, and a swords. It's quite complicated and putting it on alone is quite difficult. At the Shibuya Samurai Armor Photo Studio, the staff will help you put the armor on, so don't worry about that. As you can see in the video, the Shibuya Samurai Armor Photo Studio not only allows you to wear armor, but also gives you some trivia about armor, which is great fun for anyone interested in the samurai of the Warring States period. In the video, you can see explanations about bows, Japanese swordsmanship, helmets, origins of the equipment, and more. You can see the armor of the popular warlord Yukimura Sanada at 9:32 in the video. It's as if he's been resurrected in the present day! How Can You Try on Samurai Armor From Japan's Sengoku Period? Source :YouTube screenshot You may want to buy life-sized Japanese armor, but the samurai costumes on sale are surprisingly expensive and heavy. Some people enjoy making their own armor for cosplay. If you're interested, be sure to browse the internet for it. If you want to feel like a samurai without having to spend a ton of money, we recommend renting armor at the "Shibuya Samurai Armor Photo Studio" or "Sengoku Photo Studio SAMURAI" introduced in this video. Summary of Japan's Samurai Armor Photo：Japanese armor Shibuya Samurai Armor Photo Studio, introduced in the video, is a dream studio for those interested in Japanese history and samurai culture during the Warring States period. In Japan, you can also experience ninja and samurai at the VR Ninja Dojo in Kanda, Edo Wonderland Nikko Edomura, the Samurai Museum in Shinjuku, and Izakaya Ninja hall in Asakusa. If you would like to know more about Japan's Warring States Period, we recommend checking these out! ◆ Shibuya Samurai Armor Photo Studio Facility Overview ◆ 【Address】7th floor, King Building, 5-6 Maruyama-cho, Shibuya-ku, Tokyo, 150-0044 【Access】A 10 minute walk from Shibuya station on the JR Yamanote line 【Admission Fee】Prices vary by plan, so be sure to check out the official website for more information. 【Hours】10: 00 ~ 21: 00 【Closures】None 【Parking】None 【Phone number】03-4330-7200 【Official Website】Samurai Armor Photo Studio http://samurai.bz/en/index.html

About the video on “FLEXIE.” The title of the video is "[Huge impact!] MOL Next-generation Car Carrier FLEXIE Series (Digest)” created by “MOL channel.” This video introduces viewers to the next-generation car carrier vessel developed by Mitsui O.S.K Lines. Using the latest technology, this car carrier ship has high loading efficiency, high propulsive efficiency and high performance. Take a look at the video to see how cool the ship design is! This article will discuss the next-generation car carrier ship “FLEXIE.” What is "FLEXIE", the next generation car carrier ship? Source of photo :YouTube screenshot What you see in the video is the next-generation car carrier ship FLEXIE. FLEXIE is operated by Mitsui O.S.K. Lines, and carries cars and construction equipment overseas. As you can see in the video at 0:08, the car carrier transportation service “MOL ACE” was established in 2015 to expand their business internationally. The “FLEXIE series” gained an excellent reputation based on its unprecedented innovations. In 1965, MOL’s very first car carrier ship “Oppama Maru” was commissioned. Oppama Maru was the first car carrier ship in Japan at the time. Since then, car carrier ships have advanced over the years and eventually the next-generation car carrier ship series FLEXIE was born. Using the latest technology, FLEXIE allows for the transport of various different kinds of vehicles such as trucks and trailers. Please watch the video starting from 0:38 to learn more about the history of MOL. The next-generation car carrier ship FLEXIE received a Good Design Award in 2018. MOL’s FLEXIE won the award, making it the first winner from the shipping industry in over 9 years. The full length of FLEXIE is 199.95 meters (~650 ft) and the total width is 32.2 meters (~105.5 ft). The ship also boasts a capacity of 6,800 units (standard passenger vehicles). Currently, there a 4 vessels in operation. Features of next-generation car carrier ship FLEXIE Source of photo :YouTube screenshot Features of next-generation car carrier ship FLEXIE include the use of the latest load efficiency increasing technology as well as propulsion efficiency increasing technology. Increasing the number of lift-able decks (floors and ceilings can be raised and lowered) increases the number of decks to 14 layers. FLEXIE is completely strengthened, and as a result, a bulkhead-less structure can be implemented, greatly reducing the usage of the ships partitions (bulkhead). With this new structure, load efficiency is improved 6.25%. Various kinds of vehicles can be loaded on the vessel as well, as the load capacity of the ramp-way is 150 tons. To see how cars are loaded using this latest technology, please take a look at the video starting from 1:12. Source of photo :YouTube screenshot As shown in the video from 2:16, MOL worked on FLEXIE to create a Panamax-type of ship to reduce wind resistance (maximum size Panamax-type ships are able to cross the Panama Canal connecting North and South America). By using the latest propellers, water flow is optimized and increases propulsion efficiency. FLEXIE also cuts CO2 emissions by 13.7% by implementing the latest energy-saving technology. FLEXIE can generate power using a solar panel system and use the solar power when the ship is at anchor to cut emissions to ZERO. As you can see from 3:03, FLEXIE uses technologies such as AR and IoT to support steering and adhere to safety regulations. There's also a sensor that detects any defects and performs maintenance before any trouble occurs. An overview of the next-generation car carrier ship FLEXIE Soruce of photo :YouTube screenshot The video “MOL Next-generation Car Carrier FLEXIE Series (Digest)” created by “MOL Channel” introduces viewers to the next-generation car carrier ship FLEXIE. FLEXIE is a high performance car carrier ship using the latest technology. You can see the latest AR steering support technology in the video. The high performance car carrier ship revolutionizing the ship industry has set sail! 【Official Website】Mitsui O.S.K. Lines, Ltd. https://www.mol.co.jp/en/index.html

Introducing the Aoi Festival! This "Skyscape" produced video "[Kyoto / Aoi Matsuri 2017] EOS 5D Mark IV 4K Saiodai and Shimogamo Shrine / Headquarters Kyoto Aoi Matsuri Festival（【京都・葵祭2017】EOS 5D Mark IV 4K 斎王代と下鴨神社・社頭の儀 Kyoto Aoi Matsuri Festival), shows the Kyoto Aoi Festival which is held in the Kansai region in Kyoto during the fresh green season. The Aoi Festival consists of three ceremonies: the Miyagi ceremony (宮中の儀, Kyuchu no gi), Roadside ceremony (路頭の儀, Roto no gi), and the Shrine ceremony (社頭の儀, Shatōnogi). Unfortunately, the Miyagi ceremony is not currently being held. The video shows the sacred shrine ceremony in detail. Watch the videos to discover the mysterious and beautiful traditions of Japan. What Kind of Event Is the Aoi Festival Photo：The Tower Gate of Shimogamo Shrine The Aoi Festival is a festival of the World Cultural Heritage sites, Kamigamo Shrine (上賀茂神社, Kamigamo Jinja) (Kamobetsu Raijin Shrine) and Shimogamo Shrine (下鴨神社, Shimogamo Jinja) (Kamo Miso Shrine), and is also called the Kita Festival (北祭, Kita Matsuri) or Kamo Festival (賀茂祭, Kamo Matsuri). The two shrines have been worshipped in Japan since before the Heian period (794 AD to 1185 AD), as Kyoto's number one shrine. The Aoi Festival introduced in this video is counted as one of the three major festivals of Kyoto, along with the Gion Festival and the Festival of the Ages. In addition, the Kyoto Gozan bonfire is added to the three major festivals of Kyoto, causing them to sometimes be referred to as Kyoto's four major events. The Aoi Matsuri is one of the oldest festivals in Japan, and it is mentioned in the "Rivalry of the Carriages" in the Aoi chapter of The Tale of Genji (源氏物語, Genji Monogatari). Let's Check Out Japan's Aoi Festival! Photo：Aoi Festival The roadside ritual of the Aoi Festival is a Heian picture scroll procession that follows a route from the Kyoto Imperial Palace to Kamigamo Shrine. At 0:28 in the video, we see the Saiin of the Aoi Festival, dressed in the "Jūnihitoe," a twelve-layered ceremonial kimono. At the Aoi Festival, there is also a royal envoy and ladies wearing special kimono, and they will travel along the streets with horses and oxen. Participants in the Aoi Matsuri parade decorate their hair with wilder ginger from the Futaba-Aoi plant. After the ceremony in front of the shrine's main building, the procession is filmed in a line from Shimogamo Shrine to the main hall of Kamigamo Shrine. This can be seen at 2:16 in the video. Highlights of the Aoi Festival! If you want to go sightseeing in Kyoto, we recommend the Aoi Festival in May. In addition to the pilgrimage on May 15, there are many rituals during Golden Week, such as the Yabusame ritual, the Kamo horse racing ritual, the holy ritual, the Aoi Festival purification ritual, the festival of the ages, the Oin festival, and the tea ceremony. If you want to see the Aoi Festival up close, you may want to use the paid seats. Around the pilgrimage route there are many famous restaurants such as Saruya, and Yoshinobu Tsuruya, so you can enjoy Kyoto's gourmet cuisine for lunch or buy some souvenirs. Summary of the Aoi Festival Photo： Kamigamo Shrine The video introduced here captures an elegant scene that's as if you've traveled back in time to the Heian period (794 AD to 1185 AD). The Aoi Festival is one of the most famous festivals in Japan, so be sure not to miss it! To get to Kamobetsurai Shrine (Shimogamo Shrine and Kamigamo Shrine), it takes 30 minutes from JR East Kyoto Station by Kyoto City Bus or by car, or a 20-minute walk from Kitaoji Station on the Karasuma Subway Line. There is a parking lot, but traffic is restricted during the Aoi Festival, so we recommend using a Kyoto city bus or train. You can enjoy Kamigamo Shrine not just during the Aoi Festival, but year round as well! Some recommended spots are: “Tachisuna” imitating Kamiyama in front of Nino Torii, “Jokē-en,” a beautiful garden, "Saio Sakura" named after the priestess of the Aoi Festival, "Shinmasha" where you can see the village Hakuba, The Hosono, Maiden (Hashido), Tamabashi, and Romon, all important cultural properties, the Ominata River, the Mitarai River, used for purifying the objects and people in rituals, the Kamiyama spring, Kataoka Shrine, Motomiya Shrine, Kifune Shrine, Kamoyamaguchi Shrine, Kamoyamaguchi Shrine, Shingu Shrine, the Katayama Lion Shrine, Ota Shrine, the wishing stone, the "Kamizen wedding ceremony" (wedding ceremony before the gods), and more. There are hotels and inns near Kamigamo Shrine, so we recommend an overnight stay. Be sure to visit Shimogamo Shrine and Kamigamo Shrine, which are also famous power spots. ◆Kamigamo Shrine Facility Overview◆ 【Address】 339 Kamigamo Motoyama, Kita-ku, Kyoto, Kyoto 603-8047, Japan 【Access】About 30 minutes by car from R East Kyoto Station 【Hours】5: 30-17: 00 【Closures】Open all year round 【Parking】Available (Charge) 【Telephone No】075-781-0011 【Entrance fee】 General admission free, 500 yen for special visits 【Official Website】Aoi Festival 2019 | Kyoto Sightseeing Information KYOTOdesign https://kyoto-design.jp/spot?no_cat=1&en_ver=1&mode_s=1&s= 【Official Website】Kamigamo Shrine (Kamo-wake-ikazuchi Shrine) https://www.kamigamojinja.jp/english/ 【Tripadvisor】Aoi Festival https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g298564-d8820145-Reviews-Aoi_Matsuri-Kyoto_Kyoto_Prefecture_Kinki.html

The Flame Pottery of Nagaoka City, Niigata Prefecture This video, titled "Nagaoka City [Wow! Nagaoka] 80 Years Since the Discovery Flame Pots｜Sharing Jomon Culture With the World!" (長岡市「ナルホド！ながおか」－～火焔土器発見から80年～ 縄文文化を世界に発信！), was created by "nagaokacity." The Jomon period flame pots discovered in Nagaoka City, Niigata Prefecture, in the Hokuriku region of Japan, were named after boldly decorated earthenware with four chicken-crowned handles and serrated protrusions, resembling a burning flame. Source :YouTube screenshot A replica monument of flame pots was set up in the high speed train concourse of JR Nagaoka Station, and the unveiling ceremony for the flame pots monument was held on January 13, 1987. Taro Okamoto, who attended the unveiling ceremony, says he had never encountered such an astounding aesthetic. This can be seen at 0:30 in the video. Approximately 80 years ago, flame pots were excavated at the Umataka Archeological Site in Sekihara, Nagaoka City in 1936. It was excavated by archeologists, Kensaburo Kondo and his parents, and later became a nationally designated historic site as the "Umataka and Sanju Inaba Archeological Site" because of the elucidation of the settlement and the discovery of pristine artifacts. The Mataka Jomon Museum opened in Nagaoka City in 2009 as a museum facility to preserve, exhibit and utilize these materials. This is the only museum in Japan with the theme of flame pots, and the museum has over 1,000 items on display. In 2014, the Emperor and Empress of Japan also visited the museum. This can be seen at 2:46 in the video. How Flame Pots Were Made Source :YouTube screenshot Looking at the designs, it's easy to tell that these are not simple designs. So then how were flame pots made? Flame-type pottery, including flame pots was used to cook food just like earthenware pots. This is known because they were found to be covered with soot and burnt residue. There are two classifications for these vessels: flame pots and flame-style pottery. Flame pots were the first vessels to be excavated by Kondo Junsaburo, while "flame-type pottery" is distinguished from similar pottery excavated thereafter. This is explained from 2:51 in the video by the Chief of the Umataka Jomon Museum. It is generally believed that flame pots are made by piling up triangles of clay to make jagged edges, and then attaching strings of clay to them and firing them to create unique patterns. You can see how flame pots are made in detail at 4:35 in the video. A similar type of earthenware is crown pots, but they have distinctly different rims and handles, and are thought to have been historically different from flame-type pottery. Sharing Flame Pots With the World Source :YouTube screenshot The Shinanogawa Flame Highway Cooperation has been working together with 4 cities and 1 town to promote the adoption of flame pot designs for the Olympic torch stand in the 2020 Tokyo Olympics. At the 1964 Olympic Games in Niigata, a flaming earthenware torch stand was used, and it is still standing in the Niigata City Athletics Stadium today. These activities are widely performed by the Jomon Culture Supporters, an organization that makes 3D images of flame pots and flame-type pottery available to the public, and also holds workshops such as the Nagaoka Pottery Club to publicize their appeal. In addition, the British Museum in London has a permanent exhibition of flame pots and manholes with motifs of flame-style pottery and famous fireworks shows. Tokamachi Flame Pots: A National Treasure Flame-style pottery excavated at the Sasayama Archeological Site in Tokamachi City was recognized as a national treasure in 1999, and is preserved in the Tokamachi City Museum as an important cultural property of Japan, and as deep bowl-shaped pottery excavated from the Sasayama Archeological Site in Niigata Prefecture. Meanwhile, the story of the flame pots of Nagaoka City, "Flame -Style Pottery of the Shinano River Valley and the Culture of the Snow Country," has been recognized as a Japanese heritage. Summary of Flame Pots Source :YouTube screenshot Did you enjoy learning about ancient Jomon pottery? The pottery, discovered in Nagaoka City, Niigata, is incredibly beautiful and impressively designed considering when it was made. This video shows the beauty of the art and the flow of history that attracts many people. If you like pottery, be sure to visit Nagaoka City!

A Look at the Traditional Japanese Leather Crafted Goods of “Koshu Inden” This video, titled "koshu lacquered deerhide (手技TEWAZA「甲州印伝」)," produced by "Japanese Traditional Crafts Aoyoma Square," is a video that promotes "Koshu Inden," a traditional Japanese craft. Koshu Inden is a traditional craft that involves the lacquering of deer hide to create beautiful patters. The high quality leather craft goods made by these artisans has been loved through the ages. This video features how to make Koshu Inden. Enjoy the beauty of this traditional Japanese craft. Roots of Koshu Inden The history of Koshu Inden goes way back, and it was already being produced in the Nara period, about 1,300 years ago. Tabi (Japanese socks) made using the Inden technique are kept in the treasury of Shosoin (正倉院, Shosoin), and a box with an Inden inscription is also in the possession of Todaiji Temple (東大寺, Todaiji) in Nara Prefecture. Koshu Inden had been actively made in the castle town of Kofu-jo after the Edo period and pouches made using Koshu Inden techniques became popular among the common people. How Koshu Inden Are Made Source :YouTube screenshot Koshu inden is made through a series of processes such as tanning, dying, and lacquering animal hides such as deer or sheep. Koshu Inden is unique in that it is both soft to the touch and durable. Here we'll introduce the steps in Koshu Inden. 1. Yakizuri (0:29) The leather is scorched with an iron and then sanded. 2. Paper pattern (0:45) 3. Lacquering (1:01) The craftsman determines how the lacquers they choose will look. 4. Smoking (1:54) Color is put into the product through smoking. 5. Sewing (2:21) The work is shown in the video, making it very easy to understand. Recommended Items That Shine With Koshu Inden Craftsmanship Source :YouTube screenshot Inden-ya in Yamanashi Prefecture (山梨県: Yamanashi-ken) sells a lot of handmade goods made by Koshu Inden craftsmen. Yushichi Uehara, the founder of "Inden-ya" makes many soft-to-the-touch Koshu Inden goods by tanning deer hides using straw. Inden-ya's highly recommended products include Koshu Inden long wallets, coin purses, business card holders, inkan cases, Japanese pattern Kinchaku (drawstring purses), and more. The Sakura Komachi series, which features a motif of cherry blossoms in full bloom, is also very popular. You can see these products at 2:47 in the video. Recently products in collaboration with luxurious brands such as Gucci or Tiffany have caught the public's eye. These products are available at an online retailers such as Amazon or Rakuten. Summary of Koshu Inden Koshu Inden is a traditional Japanese craft as well as a highly fashionable product. As you can see from the video, you can use Koshu Inden goods for a long time thanks to the amazing handiwork of the Koshu Inden craftsmen. The Koshu Inden artisans in the video says, "The unique appeal of Koshu Inden is the large variety of patterns, with dozens of different colors in a single product, and the joy of being able to choose the color and pattern you like." 【Official Website】Japanese Traditional Crafts Aoyoma Square https://kougeihin.jp/en/

The 0 Series Shinkansen Returns as the World’s Slowest Bullet Train/Railway Hobby Train! The video "[Railway Hobby Train] Debut｜Ehime Newspaper," (「鉄道ホビートレイン」デビュー・愛媛新聞), released by "ehimenp," is about the 0 series Shinkansen (The world’s slowest bullet train) running on the JR Shikoku Yodo Line, which stops at Uwajima station and Chikanaga station. This line runs along the Shimanto River. The Shinkansen is Japan's high-speed railway, celebrating its 50th anniversary. The first Shinkansen train to celebrate this anniversary is the 0 series, a car with a cute round nose that everyone has seen at one time or another. The 0 series Shinkansen can be seen at 1:10 in the video. Although the 0 series Shinkansen was retired in 2008, a diesel train car was converted to a 0 series Shinkansen-style train in 2014 to commemorate the 100th anniversary of the Yodo Line, which runs from Kochi Prefecture to Ehime Prefecture in the Shikoku region. That happens to be the "Railway Hobby Train" introduced in the video. The nicknames of the 0 series shinkansen are Hikari and Kodama. At the time, it attracted a lot of attention in Japan and around the world as a high-speed train that ran at the world's highest speed of 210km/h. Of course, the Railway Hobby Train is a sightseeing train, and since it is a slow-moving diesel train, it cannot achieve such high speeds, but you can enjoy a scenic tour of Shikoku while being gently rocked by the lovely dumpling-nosed cars of the nostalgic 0 series Shinkansen, which look just like the original. The cute Railway Hobby Train can be seen at 0:55 in the video. The Charm of the 0 Series Shinkansen Photo：Railway Hobby Train The Railway Hobby Train is a set of three cars that run on the Yodo Line. In addition to the 0 series Shinkansen train introduced in the video, there is the Shiman Trolley, which can be seen from 6:04 and the Kaiyodo Hobby Train, which can be seen at 6:09. Together with these trains, the three brothers of the Yodo Line are the centerpiece of the regional development. In other words, when we talk about railway hobby trains, we're referring to these three types of trains. Among them, the 0 series hobby train shown in the video is the most popular! Children and Adults Alike Are Excited! the Secrets of the Railway Hobby Train! Source :YouTube screenshot As you can see from 3:06 in the video, the Series 0 Shinkansen Railway Hobby Train has a model display area inside the train, where the very popular Plarail issue is on display, making it a true dream train for train enthusiasts and children. The Series 0 Shinkansen Hobby Train is based on the Kiha 32 series train, and a fully colored version of the popular N gauge product called "Micro Ace" is also available. The 0 series Shinkansen was also featured in the popular children's anime "Shinkansen Transforming Robot Shinkarion," so the 0 series Shinkansen is not only for old fans, but a dream come true for children as well. We recommend checking the operation status of the train on the official JR Shikoku website in advance, as it is expected to be very crowded on the days when the train is running. Summary of the Railway Hobby Train Source :YouTube screenshot There is a museum called Shikoku Railway Cultural Center in Saijo City, Ehime Prefecture. Here, there are 0 series train cars, that actually were once active as shinkansen, on display. In other words, Shikoku is a holy land for railway enthusiasts. The Railway Hobby Train also has a photo corner, but for those who want to take photos of the cute train cars traveling through the magnificent nature of Shikoku, the best place to do so is near the railway bridge on the Yodo Line over the Shimanto river. Don't forget to check the timetable in advance, as Shikoku is often hit by typhoons and operations are cancelled when the weather is bad. Also, the three hobby train brothers are limited to one run per day! Don't miss your chance! 【Tripadvisor】Railway Hobby Train https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g608510-d10758981-Reviews-Tetsudo_Hobby_Train_Yodo_Line_JR_Shikoku-Uwajima_Ehime_Prefecture_Shikoku.html

Introducing Kanazawa Castle This video, titled "Ishikawa Kanazawa Castle - 金沢城 - 4K Ultra HD" introduces information about Kanazawa castle in Ishikawa Prefecture. The video was published by "TokyoStreetView - Japan The Beautiful." Kanazawa castle is one of the most popular tourist spots in the Hokuriku Region. At Kanazawa castle, you can learn about the history of Ishikawa, Kanazawa, a place known as a prosperous castle town in Kaga Hyakumangoku. Kaga Hyakumangoku refers to the measure of wealth the Kaga region attained during the early rule of the Maeda clan and the artisan culture they promoted over the following three centuries. The video shows the beautiful Kanazawa castle, a national historical site. In the article, we'll talk about Kanazawa castle alongside the video. Try to keep up! What is Kanazawa Castle? Photo：Kanazawa Castle Park in Kanazawa, Ishikawa Prefecture Kanazawa castle is located in Marunouchi, Kanazawa, in Ishikawa prefecture (Formerly Kaga province, Ishikawa-gun, Kaganokuni). It was built on the Kodatsuno Plateau between the Saigawa River and the Asano River, which flows through the Kanazawa plains. During Edo period (1603-1868), Kanazawa castle prospered as a castle town of Kaga Hyakumangoku and was used as a residence of the Maeda clan, the head of the Kaga domain. Today, the area around the castle, including the ruins of Kanazawa Castle, a national historic site, has been developed into Kanazawa Castle Park, and is one of Kanazawa's most popular tourist attractions. Kanazawa castle was constructed from the Warring States period (1467-1615) to the Edo period and is classified as a hilltop castle with a teikakushiki layout. It has a distinctive exterior with white walls made of white mortar and flat lead tiles. The beautiful white roof tiles of Kanazawa Castle can be seen at 0:04 in the video. Hashizume mon (gate) is the highlight of Kanazawa castle. Although it was burned down in 1881, it was restored to its former glory in 2015. Be sure to check out the interesting shapes of the rocks used in the stone walls at different gates. There so many interesting spots in Kanazawa park! The castle tower was destroyed by lightning three years after Toshiie Maeda became lord of the castle after the Battle of Shizugatake. There was a plan to restore the castle tower, but due to a lack of resources, it was difficult to do so. Tour Information for Kanazawa Castle Photo：Kanazawa Castle Park in Kanazawa, Ishikawa Prefecture Kanazawa castle is open year round. Between March 1st and October 15th it's open from 7 am to 6 pm and from October 16th to the end of February it's open from 8 am to 5 pm. Admission to Kanazawa Castle is free, but there are charges to enter Hishigaya Turret, Gojukken Nagaya Warehouse, Hashizume-mon, and the Tsuzuki Yagura Turret. The admission fees for these places are 320 yen for adults and 100 yen for children. Access is about 10 minutes by taxi from Kanazawa Station. By car, it takes about 30 minutes from the Kanazawa West IC (金沢西IC) on the Hokuriku Expressway. There are 3 different parking areas near Kanazawa castle. The illumination of Kanazawa Castle and Kenrokuen is a popular seasonal event. During this time, Kenrokuen will be open to the public free of charge at night and is lit up for a limited time. The autumn foliage and the fantastic scenery of lights are must-sees. Summary of Kanazawa castle. Photo：Kanazawa Castle Park in Kanazawa, Ishikawa Prefecture The video in this article introduces the beautiful scenery of Kanazawa castle. There is so much to see at Kanazawa Castle Park. Kenrokuen is known as one of the three greatest gardens of Japan, and is a place where you can enjoy the view of a traditional Japanese garden. You can also collect a stamp from Kanazawa castle if you have a stamp book. It's a great place for history buffs as well! 【Official Website】Kanazawa castle and Kenrokuen - Ishikawa http://www.pref.ishikawa.jp/siro-niwa/english/top.html 【Tripadvisor】Kanazawa castle https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g298115-d324909-Reviews-Kanazawa_Castle-Kanazawa_Ishikawa_Prefecture_Hokuriku_Chubu.html

Introducing Shirahige Shrine! This video, titled "Shirahige Shrine - Shiga - 白鬚神社 - 4K Ultra HD," introduces the beautiful scenery of Shirahige Shrine, a tourist attraction located on the shores of Lake Biwa in northern Shiga prefecture. Shirahige Shrine is a beautiful shrine that is also popular as a power spot. If you're headed out on a sightseeing trip to Shiga prefecture's Lake Biwa, be sure to visit Shirahige Shrine! The vermilion torii gate floating on the lake is a mysterious and beautiful sight. The History of Shirahige Shrine, a Power Spot in Shiga Prefecture Photo：The torii gate of Shirahige Shrine, Shiga Prefecture Shirahige Shrine, located on the shores of Lake Biwa in Shiga Prefecture, is a historical shrine that is considered to be the main shrine of all Shirahige Shrines throughout the country. Shirahige Shrine is said to have been built some 1900 years ago, around the time of Emperor Suinin, the 11th emperor of Japan, and is believed to be the oldest shrine in Omi, Shiga Prefecture. Originally, there is a theory that god Hira who dwelt in the Hira Mountains of Shiga Prefecture was enshrined here as a deity. It is believed that Shirahige Shrine blesses people with longevity, and after the Kamakura Period (1185-1333), the Ashikaga shogun often visited the shrine and it was widely revered by warlords. Check Out the Sights at Shirahige Shrine on the Shores of Lake Biwa in Shiga Prefecture! Photo：The torii gate of Shirahige Shrine, Shiga Prefecture The charm of Shirahige Shrine is of course the superb view of the vermilion Shirahige Shrine Torii that stands in Lake Biwa. When traffic on Lake Biwa thrived, the Shirahige Shrine Torii is said to have served as a place of worship. The large torii gate of Shirahige Shrine has a strong power that protects Lake Biwa, Japan's largest lake. If you go to Shirahige Shrine for sightseeing, don't forget to receive a shuin stamp as well! In the precincts of Shirahige Shrine, there's a monument to Murasaki Shikibu, famous for "The Tale of Genji," and Matsuo Basho, who composed many waka poems in Omi. We highly recommend checking this out if you have the chance. Sightseeing Around Shiragane Shrine, Near the Famous Lake Biwa! Source :YouTube screenshot At the far end of the premises of Shirahige Shrine is a small hut called Iwato Shrine. This shrine can be seen from 4:09 in the video. In addition, there are several ancient tombs scattered deep in the mountains behind the shrine. When the weather is nice, take a hike along the trail to enjoy the natural scenery and visit the historical tombs. After sightseeing, we recommend stopping by Shirahige Shokudo (白ひげ食堂) or Shirahige Soba (白ひげ蕎麦) in the surrounding area to enjoy the unique, hole-in-the-wall gourmet food of Shiga Prefecture. Summary of Shiga Prefecture's Shiragane Shrine Photo：The torii gate of Shirahige Shrine, Shiga Prefecture The majestic, vermillion torii gate of Shirahage Shrine that stands in the dignified Lake Biwa is, as you can see at 0:08 in the video, a beauty that can hardly be described in words. In recent years, the mystical Shirahige Shrine Torii standing in Lake Biwa, has become a popular place for taking Instagram photos. Be sure to visit Shirahige Shrine by Lake Biwa, one of the most popular power spots in Shiga Prefecture! ◆Shirahige Shrine｜General Information◆ 【Address】215 Ukawa, Takashima, Shiga 【Access】Approximately 3 km from JR Omi Takashima Station 【Telephone】0740-36-1555 【Tripadvisor】Shirahige Shrine https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g1023578-d1529714-Reviews-Shirahige_Shrine-Takashima_Shiga_Prefecture_Kinki.html

Introducing Matsue Castle! This video is titled "[Remastered] Matsue Castle - Shimane - 松江城." Produced by "TokyoStreetView - Japan The Beautiful," it introduces Matsue Castle in Shimane prefecture. Matsue Castle is one of the 5 castles of Japan that are designated as national treasures. The majestic castle has an aura of history surrounding it and is a popular sightseeing destination in Shimane prefecture. In this article, we'll introduce Shimane prefecture’s Matsue Castle alongside with the video. About Matsue Castle Photo：Shimane prefecture・Matsue Castle Matsue Castle, introduced in the video, is a hirayama-style castle built in 1611. Horio Yoshiharu, Kyougoku Tadataka, Matsudaira Naomasa, and Matsudaira Harusato were lords of this castle. The castle has two names, and is often called "Chidori Castle." Famed for the only existing castle tower in the San-in region, Matsue Castle is built on the small Kameda Mountain, overlooking the beautiful Shinji Lake. Besides Matsue Castle, 5 more castles, including Inuyama Castle, Matsumoto Castle, Hikone Castle, and Himeji castle, are all designated as national treasures of Japan. Matsue Castle is designated as a national historical ruin as well as being chosen as one of the top 100 cherry blossom spots in Japan and one of the top 100 beautiful cityscapes. The History of Matsue Castle Photo：Matsue Castle in Spring In the Edo period (1603-1868), Matsue Castle served as the government office of the Matsue clan in the Edo Shogunate. However, because of the ordinance of "One Domain, One Castle," in the Meiji era (1868-1912), most of the castle, besides the wooden castle tower, was dismantled. Later on, the outer citadel tower and stone walls were reconstructed; and in the early years of the Showa era, the castle hillside area was opened to the public as a park. At 0:39 in the video, you can see Matsue Castle at the center of Matsue Shiroyama Park. Attached to the castle tower, there are connecting towers called Tsuke-yagura (lit. attached tower). The brattices, paulownia staircases, and wrapping boards called Tsutsumi-ita that protected the pillars were all distinctive features of the castle. It is said that there were many failed attempts when building the stone walls for the castle tower and there is also an urban legend that tells of men sacrificing themselves and becoming human pillars. Things to Note When Sightseeing at Matsue Castle Photo：Matsue Castle・Moat cruise During the fall season, there is an illumination event at Matsue Castle, and you can see the beautiful autumn colors. On New Year’s, the area is packed with people waiting to see the first sunrise of the year. Every year in winter, the Matsue Castle marathon is held; we recommend checking it out if you're interested! After visiting Matsue Castle, enjoy lunch at a café in the castle town where the samurai residences still remain, or take a cruise around the moat of Matsue Castle on the Horikawa River on a sightseeing boat. Summary of Matsue Castle Photo：Shimane prefecture・Matsue Castle It takes about 1 hour to see everything at the castle, including the castle tower and connecting towers, the well, and Matsue Castle Park. When sightseeing at the castle, be sure to get your seal stamp to commemorate your visit. In Shimane prefecture, there are many popular tourist spots, including Shinji Lake, Izumo Taisha Shrine, and Tamatsukuri Onsen. Be sure to check them out if you have time! ◆Matsue Castle Facility Overview◆ 【Address】1-5 Tonomachi, Matsue City, Shimane Prefecture 【Access】10 minutes by Lake Line Bus from JR Matsue Station, or a 20 minute walk from Matsue Shinji Onsen Station on the Ichibata Electric Railway 【Hours】8:30～18:30（Differs according to season） 【Admission fee】Adults ¥680, Elementary/Junior High School Students ¥290, Foreigners ¥470 【Parking】None. Please use a nearby coin parking lot 【Telephone】0852-21-4030 【Official Website】National Treasure Matsue Castle Website https://www.matsue-castle.jp/ 【Tripadvisor】Matsue Castle https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g298136-d324845-Reviews-Matsue_Castle-Matsue_Shimane_Prefecture_Chugoku.html

The World Heritage site, Kosuge Slip Dock This video, titled "The World Heritage site and Birthplace of the Modern Shipyard 'Kosuge Slip Dock'" (世界遺産、日本の近代造船所発祥の地「小菅修船場跡」), was released by "videopro8570495." The first Western style dock in Japan, Kosuge Slip Dock is registered as a World Heritage site. It is in Kusuage, Nagasaki city, Nagasaki prefecture, Kyushu and is the birthplace of the modern shipyard. It was completed in December 1868. This Western style dock is used for repairing ships. The pulling device, powered by the oldest steam boiler in Japan, is installed here. The Western style dock has a steam engine boiler called “a slipway” with a platform for pulling the ship. The slipway was called “Abacus Dock” because it looks like an abacus. “Abacus Dock” is shown from 0:55 in the video. Also, the boiler that makes steam and the device to pull the 1,000 ton ship is shown from 3:12 in the video. The History of the Kosuge Slip Dock Source :YouTube screenshot The Kosuge Slip Dock was planned by Thomas Blake Glover who was a Scottish trader and the Satsuma Domain Warlords, such as the Ten Great Nobles of the Restoration, Komatsu Kiyokado and Godai Tomoatsu. The foreign ship repair facility and shipyard, was completed in 1868. The next year, Thomas Glover ran out of funds in the arms trade. He sold the Kosuge Slip Dock to the Meiji Government and it became a facility managed by the Nagasaki Iron Factory and owned by Mitsubishi. After the takeover, it grew to become the current Nagasaki Dockyard of Mitsubishi Heavy Industries, but the business scale was reduced as the ships became larger. During World War II, the company produced small military ships and managed to make a small comeback, but after the war in 1953, it was closed down. Now, the oldest brick building is designated as a historic site of Japan. Its unique brick was called a konjak brick. In 2015, it was registered as a UNESCO World Heritage site as the “Site of Japan’s Meiji Industrial Revolution: Iron and Steel, Shipbuilding and Coal Mining.” The brick-building is shown from 1:11 in the video. The Mystery of the Kosuge Slip Dock Photo：Kosuge Repair Dock Old Site Kosuge, Nagasaki city, Nagasaki prefecture was the ideal place for pulling in and pulling out ships, because it has a small cove that extends into the land, but it still remains a mystery why the Satsuma clan was able to locate a shipyard in Nagasaki, which was outside of their domain. There are four theories: 1. The economic power of the Satsuma clan extended to Nagasaki 2. Kosuge was under the shogun's jurisdiction 3. The shogunate needed a ship repairing dock 4. A trader patronized by Nagasaki was an applicant for construction The Kosuge Slip Dock, a Sightseeing Location in Nagasaki Source :YouTube screenshot The Kosuge Slip Dock is famous not only for its history, but also as a tourist site. The cottage for pulling up the ships, is open during weekends. The boiler and the huge gear is really something else. You can go to Kosuge, Nagasaki city, Nagasaki prefecture by taking a Nagasaki bus from JR Nagasaki station to Kosugemachi. It's about a 15 minute ride and 5 minutes walk. There is no parking available, so we highly recommend using public transportation. Feel the History of the End of the Tokugawa Shogunate at the Kosuge Slip Dock a World Heritage Site in Nagasaki Source :YouTube screenshot Did you like the article? The breathtaking views are even more powerful if you learn more about the history and background that played an important role in the history of shipyards at the end of Edo period. Please visit the Kosuge Slip Dock World Heritage site when you go to Nagasaki! There are nearby hotels for you to stay at as well. ◆Kosuge Slip Dock◆ 【Address】5 Kosugemachi, Nagasaki city, Nagasaki Prefecture, 850-0934 【Access】A 15 minutes bus ride from JR Nagasaki station to Kosugemachi and then a 5-minute walk 【Entrance fee】None 【Parking】None 【Telephone No】095-829-1314 【Official Website】DISCOVER NAGASAKI official visitor guide https://www.discover-nagasaki.com/ 【Tripadvisor】Kosuge Repair Dock Old Site https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g298568-d4952490-Reviews-Kosuge_Repair_Dock_Old_Site-Nagasaki_Nagasaki_Prefecture_Kyushu.html

Kyoto Yamashina Gishi Matsuri - A Celebration of Japanese History This video, titled "Kyoto Festival: 47 Rōnin March (Gishi Matsuri) [4K]," was produced by "Discover Kyoto." Yamashina, located in the western area of Japan’s ancient capital Kyoto, is a small basin surrounded by rich natural scenery and mountains on three sides. Here, there is a festival related to Ako Roshi, or the 47 Ronin, famous from Chushingura. That festival is the Kyoto Yamashina Gishi Matsuri (festival), introduced in the video. Chushingura is well known among Japanese people. Although there are many places in Tokyo related to Chushingura, such as Edo Castle, Lord Kira's Residence, and Sengakuji Temple, there is a scene called Act 9: Yamashiro Kankyo no Ba (Yamashiro's Retreat) in "Kanadehon Chushingura," which is a script of Ningyo Joruri (a Japanese puppet show) and Kabuki, and the story’s setting is in Kyoto. This is the land where one of the key members of Chushingura, Oishi Kuranosuke, lived in hiding until he was killed, so there are many so there are many historical sites associated with the 47 Ronin. Because of this historical connection, "Yamashina Gishi Matsuri” is held on December 4 every year, where a procession of the samurai troops in their battle costumes parades through the town (video 1:12), and reenactments of Chushingura’s famous "Ninjo Matsu no Roka," "Seppuku," "Renbanjo Aratame," "Raid, "Oishi Ondo" (video 2:50-) as well as the "Genroku Hanami Dance" by women, liven up the festival. Enjoy the video of Kyoto's Yamashina Gishi Matsuri, which will have you feeling as though you've traveled back in time to the Edo period! The Parade Course of Kyoto's Yamashina Gishi Matsuri Source :YouTube screenshot In front of the main hall of Bishamon-do, there is a departure ceremony early in the morning that all members attend. This can be seen in the video at 0:55. The group, dressed as Oishi Kuranosuke and his loyalists, departs from Bishamon-do and walk through the area to Ako Oishi Shrine via the Kyoto City Tobu Culture Hall. Bishamon-do, where the 47 Ronin depart from, is a temple of the Tendai sect of Buddhism that enshrines Bishamonten In fact, this Bishamon-do plays an important role in the Chushingura story. The treatment of the 47 Ronin after killing Kira Kozukenosuke was complicated and opinions were divided in the Bakufu (government). Troubled by this, Tokugawa Tunayoshi, the shogun at the time, asked Kōben-hosshinnō his opinions on the matter. Koben recognized the allegiance of 47 Ronin, but at the same time, told Tsunayoshi that giving death is also a mercy. They were ordered to commit seppuku (ritual suicide), and it is said that their bodies were buried in Sengakuji Temple in Tokyo. Therefore, with the advice from Koben, the warriors' were able to fulfill their duties, and Bishamon-do became the starting point of the Yamashina Gishi Matsuri parade. Incidentally, the present Bishamon-do was moved to the grounds of Anshoji Temple in 1665, after it was abolished during the Onin War. Access to Bishamondo, the starting point of Yamashina Gishi Matsuri, is a 20-minute walk from JR Yamashina Station. The History of the Yamashina Gishi Matsuri in Kyoto, and Access to the Area Photo：Kyoto・Bishamon-do Yamashina, Kyoto is a famous sightseeing place in Japan, with rich natural scenery and many historical locations. Yamashina Gishi Matsuri is an event related to Chushingura, but there are other famous places, such as Zuishinin where the female poet Ono no Komachi, who was active in Heian period (794-1185), lived, and the area is also the where the ancestors of Murasaki Shikibu lived. Arashiyama and Kiyomizudera Temple are famous places to view the autumn foliage in Kyoto They're also great for learning about the history of Japan, so be sure to check them out if you have the chance. It takes about 5 minutes to get to JR Yamashina Station from Kyoto Station. It's usually very crowded on the day of the event, and it is difficult to find a parking space, so we recommend using public transportation. Summary of Kyoto's Yamashina Gishi Matsuri Source :YouTube screenshot The Yamashina Gishi Matsuri Photo Contest is also held on the day of Yamashina Gishi Matsuri. Besides the 47 Ronin parade, there are many highlights such as Gomataki, which is introduced at 2:11 in the video. This traditional festival, which tells the story of Japan's historical romance, is something you don't want to miss! Enjoy the heroic ranks of the 47 Ronin, dressed for battle, in 4K!