Introducing the Yanaizu Naked Man Festival of Enzoji Temple in Fukushima, Japan This video, titled "Yanaizu Naked Man Festival (Nanokado Hadaka Mairi) - Fukushima - 七日堂裸参り" It introduces the Yanaizu Naked Man Festival held at Enzoji Temple in the Yanaizu region of Fukushima, Japan. Every year on January 7, a large number of visitors participate in the Yanaizu Naked Man Festival in Yanaizu, held at Enzoji Temple to pray for happiness and good health in the new year. Check out the video to experience the excitement of Fukushima Prefecture's historic Naked Man Festival. A Powerful and Unique Festival! The Yanaizu Naked Man Festival of Enzoji Temple! Photo：Enzoji Temple, Yanaizu, Fukushima The Yanaizu Naked Man Festival takes place at Enzoji Temple, located in the town of Yanaizu, in the Aizu region of Fukushima Prefecture. The principal deity of Enzo-ji Temple is Fukuman Kokuzoson, one of the three great bodhisattva in Japanese Buddhism. The temple's history dates back to 807 A.D. It's said that the reason why the the Yanaizu Naked Man Festival was held at the historic Enzoji Temple is due to a legend. In the Aizu region in the past, there was an epidemic that caused many deaths. At that time, one of the elders had a dream in which he received a prophecy that if he offered the jewel of the Dragon God to the Bodhisattva, the plague would disappear. The elder asked Princess Yayoi, who was considered the most beautiful woman in the Aizu region, to obtain the Dragon God's jewel. Princess Yayoi managed to obtain the jewel and presented it to the Bodhisattva, and in the blink of an eye, the disease disappeared. However, the dragon god living in the Tadami River came to steal the jewel back. It is said that on January 7, the day the Dragon God is said to be the quietest throughout the year, worshippers are invited to climb up a hemp rope over the temple gong, and protect the jewel from the Dragon God. Pray for Good Health and Happiness in the Year Ahead With the Yanaizu Naked Man Festival Source :YouTube screenshot It is now a traditional event held every year on January 7 and attracts approximately 300 visitors from all over the country. In addition, the public is welcome to participate, and many people pray for good health and happiness in the coming year. *Women are allowed to observe only. The Yanaizu Naked Man Festival begins with the sounding of the large bell. Men wearing loincloths run up the 113 stone steps to the main hall. Then, just like the legend of the time, they climb up over the large gong. This can be seen from 0:03 of the video. You can hear the spectators cheering on the men climbing up the rope as well. Folk Crafts of Yanaizu, Aizu Photo：Akabeko cows, a folk craft of Yanaizu, Aizu In addition to the Yanaizu Naked Man Festival, a traditional event of Fukushima shown in the video, the Aizu region is home to a number of popular folk crafts. For instance, akabeko and nade ushi (撫牛, lit. "petting cows") are popular folk crafts in the Aizu region. Both are said to bring good luck and fortune, and are becoming popular not only among residents of the prefecture but also across Japan and abroad. A statue of a cow is also enshrined in the precincts of Enzoji Temple, which is well known as a cow that brings good luck. Summary of the Yanaizu Naked Man Festival, a Traditional Event in Fukushima The Yanaizu Naked Man Festival began with an old legend. Every year on January 7, many people visit the shrine to pray for good health and happiness throughout the year. The event is easily accessible from Koriyama and open to the public, so if interested in checking out a more unique festival, be sure not to miss out on the chance to experience it for yourself. 【Official Website】The Yanaizu Naked Man Festival - Yanaizu, Aizu, the birthplace of the https://inbound.aizu-yanaizu.com/en/event/

Miyakojima's Paantu! This video is titled "Miyakojima Shimajiri Paantu 2018 Unesco World Cultural Heritage." (宮古島・島尻パーントゥ2018　UNESCO World cultural heritage). It introduces the traditional festival in Miyakojima, Okinawa, "Paantu." During the festival, supernatural gods called Paantu wear masks and chase out evils to bring luck to the villagers. The traditional event is held in two locations in Miyakojima: the Hirano Shimajiri region and the Ueno Nohara region. Each location has its differences. In 1982, both events were selected as Intangible folk cultural properties, and in 1993, they were designated Important Intangible Folk Cultural Assets. "Raihojin," (ritual visits of deities in masks and costumes) was added to UNESCO’s intangible folk cultural asset list in 2018. Paantu and Satupunaha Source :YouTube screenshot According to the local history records, the origin of the word "Paantu" is a combination of two words "Paan"(to eat) and "Pitu" (people). It has the meaning of a ghost or a demon. "Satupunaha" (wishes for home) of Shimajiri, Miyakojima takes place three times a year. Paantu is an event that takes place at the third event and it is called Paantu Satupunaha or Paantu Punaha. It was originally held on the "lucky day" (an unspecified day of the month) of the ninth month of the lunar calendar, but now it is held in October. Paantu’s appearance is similar to Namahage, another spiritual creature in Japan. Local young adult men are chosen to become Paantu and there are three roles available (Uya, Naka and Fufa). Check out the video at 0:06 to see what the Paantu look like. The three chosen men wear ivy grass called "Shionokikazura" and apply mud from the bottom of a well called "Nmarigah," which The Nmarigah is located in the vicinity of Miyajima Elementary School, and the mud is smeared on people and houses in the pantu. Children cry and scream and the smell of the mud is so bad that it cannot be removed for several days. You can see the children screaming and crying at 0:14, and teenagers running away at 1:21. Paantu even smear mud on the police car at 1:27. Playing Tag With the Gods Source :YouTube screenshot Local people explain that this event is like playing tag with the gods. The event is loved by the local people, and it's considered lucky to get muddy, as the mud will keep bad spirits away thank to its horrible smell. At first glance, it looks scary, as you see the whole village running away, but when you see the smiling faces of the villagers after being covered with mud, you'll understand the beauty of the festival. In recent years, the festival has been in danger of being cancelled due to complaints of being dirtied and problems with the festival causing trouble. Paantu would smear mud on everyone, including tourists, elderly people, police, and little children. However, the event is very important for the local people as it helps to drive out demons and cleanse the island of bad luck. Therefore, this event still continues and only people who can accept this event should participate this event. Source :YouTube screenshot Please be aware that if you are visiting Shimajiri, Miyakojima during the festival, you WILL get muddy. If you would like to know more about this event, you can also visit the Miyakojima City Museum. At this facility, you can learn about the history of Paantu and Miyakojima. You can also wear Paantu masks and take pictures. The mask is said to have washed ashore on the coast of Miyakojima Island more than a hundred years ago, wrapped in kuba leaves. Summary of Paantu Source :YouTube screenshot Are you looking forward to Paantu? The unique culture of Miyakojima, a remote island, brings many visitors to the island every year. Special goods and T-shirts are also sold, and they help stimulate the local economy, so if you're looking for souvenirs to commemorate your trip, don't miss out on them! Bisit Shimajiri, Miyakojima and have a fun-filled experience in the mud! 【Tripadvisor】City of Miyakojima https://www.tripadvisor.com/Tourism-g680765-Miyakojima_Okinawa_Prefecture-Vacations.html

Video introduction of "Toba Fire Festival" in Nishio City, Aichi Prefecture This video, titled "Japan's Most Dangerous Fire Festival – The Toba Fire Festival" (日本一危険な火祭り　鳥羽の火祭り), was released by "AichiTanken." The Toba Fire Festival is a historic festival which is still held to this day at Toba Shinmeisha shrine (鳥羽神明社) in Nishio city (西尾市) in the southern area of Aichi Prefecture (愛知県), located in Japan's Tokai region (東海地方). The official name of the festival is "Toba Daikagaribi" (鳥羽大篝火, ~The Bonfire of Toba). The Toba fire festival, which is thought to have originated approximately 1,200 years ago, has been designated an Important Intangible Folk Cultural Property of Japan. What Kind of Event Is The Toba Fire Festival? Source :YouTube screenshot During the Toba festival, area representatives called "Fukuji" (福地) and "Kanji" (乾地) set fire to a gigantic torch called a "Suzumi" (すずみ) which, by the nature of the flames, predicts the following years fortune with regards to weather, harvests, and so on. The representatives of each area, called "Shinotoko" (神男), must be at least 25 years of age and before the festival begins must live in a shrine, refrain from eating and drinking, and cleanse their bodies with water in a purification ritual. Also, on the day of the festival, the Shinotoko must jump into the sea naked as part of said purification ritual. The Shinotoko from the previous year help prepare the current year's Shinotoko during this purification process and teach them how to use the "Yusuribo," a 4-5 meter stick used to hold up the suzumi. The Toba Festival starts with the Shinotoko setting fire to the 5 meter tall, 2 ton "Suzumi." After that, the Shinotoko and helpers race to retrieve the "Shinboku" (神木) and "Juninawa" (十二縄) from inside the Suzumi and present them at the shrine. As you can see in the video, the men, who are dressed in hoods, continually pull down the burning grass to get to the Shinboku and Juninawa. From 1:23 in the video, you can see the men climb the Suzumi as flaming grass falls down around them. The men are often called "Neko" (ネコ) which translates to "cat" in English, because of their clothing and the way in which they jump down from the ladders. It is said that if there is a lot of smoke in the Toba Fire Festival, there will be more rain that year, and if the sound of the bamboo crackling is loud, there will be more thunder. It is also believed that eating with chopsticks made of the bamboo used in this ceremony will prevent dental problems. Recommended Spots in Nishio, Aichi Photo：Sakushima Island Other highlights of Nishio city include Kira Hot Spring (吉良温泉) and the Nishio City Salt Farm Experience (西尾市塩田体験館). The island "Sakushima" (佐久島) is also a popular spot for enjoying contemporary art. If you're planning a trip to Nishio city, we also recommend trying some of the popular local sweets made with Matcha. Summary of the Toba Fire Festival Source :YouTube screenshot The Toba Fire Festival has been featured in the local Aichi news outlet "KATCH" (キャッチ), as well as other websites and tourist information brochures. For those interested in traditional Japanese festivals, we highly recommend taking another look at the video of the Toba Fire Festival! On the day of the festival, many food stands and special viewing areas are set up as well, so be sure to head over to Nishio and enjoy the awesome Toba Fire Festival! ◆Toba Fire Festival – Tobashinmeisha Shrine – Event Information◆ 【Address】444-0704, Aichi prefecture, Nishio city, Tobacho (鳥羽町), Nishibasama (西迫) 89 【Access】10-minute walk from Mikawatoba station (三河鳥羽駅, mikawatobaeki) on the Meitetsu Gamagori Line (名鉄蒲郡線, meitetsugamagoorisen) 【Parking】 Available (approximately 400 spaces at Furusato Park (ふるさと公園), the fish market, etc.) 【Telephone】0563-62-2852 【Tripadvisor】 Toba Shinmeisha Shrine https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g1019652-d2005852-Reviews-Toba_Shinmeisha_Temple-Nishio_Aichi_Prefecture_Tokai_Chubu.html

Kanagawa Yugawara Onsen", Yugawara City, Kanagawa Prefecture, Video introducing festivals and other events This video, titled "Yugawara Onsen, SIghtseeing PR Video," was made by "yugawaraonsenkanko" to introduce events at Yugawara Onsen Kanagawa, in Japan's Kanto region. Yugawara Onsen in Yugawara machi, Kanagawa, takes about 60 minutes to get to from Yokohama. It has gained popularity as an Onsen resort among tourists in the Kanto region. Yugawara Onsen is a scenic tourist resort overlooking Sagami Bay and surrounded on three sides by the Hakone Outer Rim Mountains, Izu, and Atami. Yugawara Onsen is also known as the "City of Four Seasons," with its beautiful seasonal scenery, and many events are held throughout the year. It’s especially popular among women because of its easy access by train. Here we introduce recommended sightseeing locations and events where you can experience Japanese culture to your heart’s content. The video introduces a lot of events and festivals. While it's of course an attractive sightseeing spot year round thanks to its hot springs and natural scenery, but in this article we'll mainly be focusing on events shown in the video. Without further ado, let's take a look at what Yugawara has to offer! Yugawara's historical sightseeing event "Samurai Procession The video from the beginning shows the "Minamoto no Yoritomo Flag-raising Samurai Procession". Usually held on the first Sunday of April, the 2024 event was held on Sunday, April 7. About 200 warriors parade through the town from Gosho Shrine to Sakuragi Park, imitating the flag raising of Minamoto no Yoritomo and Dohi Sanpei. The Dohi Festival is also held on the same day at Joganji Temple. Yukake Matsuri, a festival unique to hot spring resorts The "Yukake Matsuri" is a festival unique to the hot spring resort where people pour hot spring water over each other while carrying portable shrines. You can watch it from 0:27 of the video. Barrels and pails filled with hot water are set up along the streets of the hot spring resort, and spectators pour hot water over the portable shrine and its bearers with great vigor. The festival is said to be a reenactment of the ritual of pouring hot water on the portable shrine to pray for its safety during the Edo period (1603-1868). The "Yugake Matsuri" is usually held on the fourth Saturday in May, and in 2024 it was held on Saturday, May 25. Firefly Festival "Firefly Party" in Yugawara The Firefly Festival "Firefly Party" is usually held at Manyo Park from late May to mid-June. Fireflies are nurtured in firefly huts and released by local elementary school students, creating a fantastic sight as they cast their beautiful light along the water's edge in the park. Don't miss the heroic Tezutsu Fireworks! Fireworks Display in Yugawara Onsen In summer in Yugawara, visitors can enjoy the powerful and heroic Tezutsu Hanabi (handheld fireworks) and Uchiage Hanabi (fireworks launched by hand). The Enshu Tezutsu Fireworks number about 100, and the sight of them shooting high into the air supported by the hands of the pyrotechnicians is sure to impress! The fireworks launched from the park are so close that they are said to be the closest fireworks display in Japan. Date: Saturday, July 27, 2024 Time: Tezutsu fireworks 20:20-20:40 　　　Fireworks 20：40～21：00 Before the fireworks begin, visitors can watch a taiko drum performance. Yassa Festival, a summer festival in Yugawara Onsen Photo：Yugawara station Yugawara Onsen, overlooking Sagami Bay and surrounded on three sides by Hakone's outer rim, Izu, and Atami, is a scenic, nature-rich tourist destination. Yugawara Onsen, with its beautiful seasonal scenery, hosts many events and flourishes year round. The summer festival of Yugawara Onsen is the Yugawara Yassa Festival in early August.During the festival, a dashi (festival car) and dancers wearing yukata (informal cotton kimono) walk around in an Ohayashi (Japanese orchestra) among the refreshing sea breeze in the night of Yugawara. It's truly an awesome sight. This can be seen at 3:04 in the video. Be sure to watch the video to see the summer festival, a long held tradition in Japan. The 2023 event was held on August 2 and 3, 2023; information on the 2024 event has not been announced at this time, so please check the official Yugawara Onsen tourist website. Seasonal Views at Yugawara Onsen, Kanagawa Photo：Yugawara Plum Garden There are many places where you can feel the changing of the seasons in Japan. Nearly 4,000 plum trees bloom in early spring at the Yugawara Plum Garden in Makuyama Park. You can see fireflies around Oku Yugawara during the summer solstice as well. In autumn, you can enjoy the beauty of the crimson foliage at sightseeing locations, such as Manyou Park and Gojo shine. There are a lot of Instagrammable spots in Yugawara Onsen area as well, thanks to the rich in natural scenery. Apollo sou in Yugawara Onsen has a mandarin bath, and you can also enjoy taking a foot bath in Manyou Park. Create unforgettable memories by visiting these hidden gems in Yugawara. Yugawara is also home to some of the delicious ramen in the country, so if you're looking to grab a bite to eat, definitely consider adding some noodles to your trip. Summary of Yugawara Onsen, Kanagawa Yugawara Onsen is an attractive tourist spot where you can enjoy a taste of good old Japanese culture. One of the charms of the Yugawara Onsen area is that you can stay at a hotel or Japanese inn or even visit it on a day trip from the Kanto region. Come sightseeing in Yugawara Onsen, and see with your own eyes the picturesque scenery and spectacular festivals introduced in the video. In the past, a samba parade was also held, parading through the hot spring resort area at night with spectacular dancing. When you visit Yugawara Onsen in Kanagawa Prefecture for sightseeing, why not check the official Yugawara Onsen tourist website for the schedule of events and festivals to be held, and make your own plans? There's a million different ways to enjoy your trip to Yugawara Onsen! 【Official Website】Kanagawa Prefecture, Yugawara Town Hall Official Website http://www.town.yugawara.kanagawa.jp.e.td.hp.transer.com/ 【Official Website】Yugawara Hot Spring Resort http://yugawara-resort.com/

Video introduction of "Fire Festival in Yoshida" in Fujiyoshida City, Yamanashi Prefecture, one of the three most bizarre festivals in Japan This video, “日本三奇祭 吉田の火祭り（鎮火祭・すすき祭り） The Yoshida Fire Festival,” was created by “FUJISAN DRONE BASE - 富士山ドローンベース.” The video introduces one of Japan’s historic summer festivals. The video begins with a powerful image of two portable shrines being carried through the streets, followed by an aerial view of a row of large torches lit by fire. Please enjoy this 4 minutes and 40 seconds video, which is packed with highlights. What are the three most bizarre festivals in Japan? When is the "Fire Festival of Yoshida" held? What is the wish behind it? Although there are various theories, the three most famous festivals in Japan are generally referred to as "Japan's three most unusual festivals": the Omihashira Festival in Suwa City, Nagano Prefecture; the Namahage Shibatoe Festival in Oga City, Akita Prefecture; and the Yoshida no Himatsuri Festival in Fujiyoshida City, Yamanashi Prefecture. The official name of the "Fire Festival of Yoshida" is the "Chinmoku Matsuri," and it is held jointly at the Kitaguchi Hongu Fuji Sengen Shrine and the Suwa Shrine. Fuji. The festival is usually held on August 26 and 27, so in 2024, it will be held on August 26 (Monday) and 27 (Tuesday). The festival is intended to pray for the safety of climbers of Mt. Fuji and to quell the eruption of Mt. What kind of festival is the "Fire Festival of Yoshida"? What is its history? Source :YouTube screenshot The festival is known as one of Japan’s Three Strangest Festivals, as well as one of the top ten fire festivals in Japan. Every year, the festival attracts up to 200,000 visitors. Yoshida's Fire Festival, a historic festival that has been held for more than 400 years, is designated as a nationally important intangible cultural asset. Originally, the "Fire Festival in Yoshida" was a festival of Suwa Shrine, not Sengen Shrine, and according to historical records, it originated from a bonfire at the annual festival (July 22) of Suwa Myojin in Kamiyoshida Village. Later, as Fuji worship flourished, Suwa Shrine was absorbed into Sengen Shrine and became a regent shrine. There are various legends about the origin of the fire festival. One legend tells of a white snake god descending from above with a portable shrine, and another tells of a myth that Kibana Kaiyahime, the deity of Sengen Shrine, gave birth to three children in a fire-burning maternity house in order to prove her identity. What are the highlights of the "Fire Festival in Yoshida," such as the lighting of the big torches? Source :YouTube screenshot Every year, on the 26th of August, Suwa Shrine carries out a procession with two mikoshi shrines. More than 100 sponsors and members of Mt. Fuji's religious associations participate in this ritual. The two mikoshi shrines are paraded through the worshippers who hold branches from the sacred Sakaki Evergreen. Finally, the procession ends at Asama Shrine. The festival can be seen from 0:43 in the video. Of the two mikoshi shrines, one created in the likeness of Mt. Fuji can be seen from 1:00 in the video. The "torch lighting," in which as many as 100 large torches, each about 3 meters high, are lit, is the highlight of the festival. From 1:54 of the video, you can see the torches being lit. When the torches are lit, a fantastic scene unfolds, as if the entire city has been transformed into a sea of fire. The Yoshida Fire Festival is accessible by bus or train, and temporary parking lots are also prepared during the festival, making it possible to visit by car. Traffic can get quite congested on festival days, so be sure to sure to account for drive time when visiting the festival by car. Summary of "Yoshida's Fire Festival," one of the three most bizarre festivals in Japan Source :YouTube screenshot Mt. Fuji is dearly beloved as the number-one mountain in Japan. This love can also be seen through the large number of visitors to the festival held at the foot of the mountain. If you still haven't yet, be sure to check out the video and immerse yourself in the sights and sounds of this traditional, soul-stirring, and energetic festival of Japan! 【Official Website】Kitaguchi Hongu Fuji Sengen Shrine 【Tripadvisor】The Yoshida Fire Festival

Sightseeing in Shimotsuma, Ibaraki In this article, we introduce the video "Shimotsuma City PR Video Digest 2019 Version" (下妻市PRビデオダイジェスト2019Ver.), produced by the "Shimotsuma City PR Video Library" (下妻市PR映像ライブラリー). Shimotsuma has a population of 41,964 (as of October 2019). It's a city full of attractive sightseeing areas and lively events. If you book a stay at one of Shimotsuma Onsen’s (しもつま温泉, Shimotsuma onsen) ryokans or hotels, you can take your time exploring the city. Let’s take a look at the attractive sightseeing destinations and events in Shimotsuma! Sightseeing Destinations in Shimotsuma, Ibaraki Photo：Mt. Tsukuba and poppies If you're planning a trip to Shimotsuma City in Ibaraki Prefecture, you should take time to admire the beautiful flowers, including rape blossoms, hydrangeas and poppies at the Flower Zone. You can get some amazing pictures here for your Instagram, so don't forget to bring your camera! Furthermore, the large zelkova tree at Muryoin Temple (無量院, Muryo-in), as well as the Holly Planted by Myoku (明空御手植の柊, Myoku o-teue no hiiragi) are particularly beautiful. Besides that, there are also other famous, yet hidden gems, such as Yakuoji Temple (薬王寺, Yakuo-ji), Komyoji Temple (光明寺, Komyo-ji), Rinnoji Temple (林翁寺, Rinno-ji), Fuji-jinja Shrine (富士神社, Fuji-jinja), Muneto-jinja Shrine (宗任神社, Muneto-jinja), as well as the former home of writer Nakatsuka Tadashi (長塚節生家, Nakatsuka tadashi seika). A car race at Tsukuba Circuit is shown at 0:24 in the video, a bouldering experience at 0:37, and a canoeing experience is shown from 1:33. Be sure to try these activities when you visit! Exciting Events in Shimotsuma, Ibaraki Photo：Daihohachimangu Shrine The Tabanka Festival (タバンカ祭, Tabanka-sai), also known as the Taimatsu Festival (松明祭, taimatsu-sai), held every year in September at Daihohachimangu Shrine of Shimotsuma (大宝八幡宮, Daihohachimangu), which can be seen at 1:42 in the video, is a popular fire festival that attracts attention as one of Japan's "bizarre festivals." Furthermore, a hydrangea festival is held at the shrine at the beginning of every summer. With a procession of horses and mikoshi palanquins (渡御, mikoshi), this is an exciting event for all. In addition, there's the Shimotsuma Festival (下妻祭り, Shimotsuma-matsuri), illumination events, Shimotsuma Fireworks Festival (下妻市花火大会, Shimotsuma hanabi-taikai), Setsubun (節分, Setsubun), and more – there are lively events in every season! Events are also held at the Shimotsuma Citizen Culture Hall (下妻市民文化会館, Shimotsuma shimin bunka kaikan) as well as nearby the municipal office. At these festivals and events, you’ll have the opportunity to hear Shimotsuma’s summer theme song, "Paprika" (パプリカ, Papurika). Local Cuisine of Shimotsuma, Ibaraki Source :YouTube screenshot At 0:56 in the video, Shimotsuma’s delicious cuisine is introduced. If you go on a trip to Shimotsuma, you can purchase fresh vegetables, seafood, and local beer, as well as have a taste of the city’s famed natto and pears at the Shimotsuma Rest Area (道の駅しもつま, Michi-no-eki shimotsuma). For lunch, enjoy a delicious bowl of local ramen! Summary of Shimotsuma, Ibaraki Shimotsuma, Ibaraki is a charming area that has begun to gain popularity in recent years. Its local character is Shimon-chan, and is designed after the great purple emperor butterfly. The various shopping areas such as Aeon Mall are convenient for both tourists and locals. If this article/video piqued your interest, do take the chance to visit Shimotsuma, Ibaraki! 【Official Homepage】 Shimotsuma City Municipal Office Homepage http://translate.google.co.jp/translate?hl=ja&sl=ja&tl=en&u=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.city.shimotsuma.lg.jp%2F

Introduction of PR video for sightseeing in Noto Town, Hozu County, Ishikawa Prefecture This video, titled "Noto, Ishikawa Tourism PR Video" (【石川県能登町観光PR】心あばれる), was created by "Noto Town." Noto, Ishikawa, in the Hokuriku region of Japan, is a town with more than 1,300 years of history. It's a small town that boasts the gentle coastline of Uchiura, facing Toyama Bay (富山湾, Toyamawan) and the Mt. Hachibuse (鉢伏, Hachibuseyama), where precious ancient beech forests remain. The town has a long history, prospering from dolphin hunting in the Jomon period (14,00 B.C. to 400 B.C.), and worshipping the god of agriculture and marriage, also known as the god of mountains. Please enjoy the video of the countryside, Noto, where history and culture are still alive today. From Noto to Wajima - Japan's Famous Agricultural Heritage Sites Photo：Ishikawa Prefecture, Shiroyone Senmaida In June 2011, Noto, Ishikawa was registered as a Globally Important Agricultural Heritage System (GIAHS). GIAHS is a system under which the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations recognizes areas with globally important traditional agriculture, forestry, and fisheries as a Globally Important Agricultural Heritage System. To date, 57 areas in 21 countries have been recognized by the organization. In Japan, there are 11 areas that have been certified. In particular, the Shiroyone Senmaida Rice Terraces of Wajima are attracting attention as one of the most representative terraced rice fields in the Noto region. Sightseeing Spots in Noto Source :YouTube screenshot The video introduces some sightseeing spots in Noto, Ishikawa, where you can see the beautiful natural scenery of Japan. Notoro Trolley is a small railway that runs from Koiji Station to Sogen Tunnel, a distance of about 350 meters. It's shown at 1:05 in the video. From 1:36, you can see “Roadside Station Sakuratoge.” There's also “Salvia Road” with roughly 40,000 salvia plants on a 4 km stretch of road from the roadside station towards Suzu. You can see the bright red salvia in full bloom in the video. At Koiji Beach which can be seen at 2:05, there's the "Happiness Bell" which is said to bring happiness when rung by couples, as well as strange rocks and a torii gate built into the sea. This place is known as “Love Road.” Noto is famous for blueberries and strawberries as well. As shown at 2:21 in the video, you can experience blueberry and strawberry picking as well. At 2:33 a festival in Ishikawa Prefecture is introduced. The Tomobata Festival is designated as an intangible folk cultural asset of Ishikawa Prefecture. There are large flags, five colored streamers and boats with Tairyo-bata moving in formation. At 2:51, we see the Sode-Kiriko and Kozare Festivals, where portable shrines and giant lanterns are paraded through the town, and fireworks are set off at night. From 3:11 in the video, the “Ushitsuno Abare Festival” is introduced. As you can see in the video, the portable shrine is knocked to the ground and thrown down into the river to be purified by the gods. Other festivals in Noto Town, Ishikawa, include the Koiji Fire Festival, the Niwaka Festival, the Shiromaru Hikiyama Festival, and the Yanagida Festival, which excite a lot of people. Other Sightseeing Spots in Noto, Ishikawa Photo：Wajima, morning market There are other sightseeing spots in Noto, Ishikawa, such as 543.6 m tall Mt. Hachibuse, which is the second highest mountain in Okunoto, with a rare ancient beech forest, Torii Shoyu Soy Sauce Shop, built in 1908, which is listed as a Tangible Cultural Property of Japan, Wajima Morning Market, where you can enjoy seafood and fruit from Noto, Mitsukejima, also called Gunkan Island due to the 28 meter tall rock that looks like a battleship ("gunkan" means battleship in Japanese), Chirihama Nagisa Driveway, the only beach in Japan where you can drive on the sandy shore, Ganmon, which is a cave created by the erosion of waves over a long period of time, Notojima Aquarium, where you can see fish that live around Noto, such as whale sharks, Rokkosaki, Tsukumo Bay, Mawaki Archaeology Museum, Mantenboshi, Matsunami Sake brewery, Yanagida Botanical Park, Concert Noto, Mawaki Site, Prefectural Notokenmin Tennis Center, and more! We hope you enjoy these sightseeing spots when you visit Noto! Don’t forget about the food when you visit Noto, either! There are many excellent dishes such as "Noto-don," using plenty of fresh seafood, "Kanazawa curry," which is popular nationwide, "Hanton rice," which is an omelette with fried fish on top, "Kanazawa oden," whose rich broth is to die for, "Komatsu udon," which was praised by Matsuo Basho, "Kaga crab rice," which uses the Kahako crab caught at the local fishing port, "Hakusan hyakusen," which is a healthy set meal, and "Kaga parfait," which is a locally produced sweet. Hotels in Noto, Ishikawa There are hot springs and popular hotels in Ishikawa, such as Wakura Onsen and Lamp no Yado Ryokan. The area around Kanazawa has many luxury hotels and is a great place to stay because of its easy access to tourist spots. One of the lesser-known places to stay is a campground on the coastline. You can enjoy camping under the beautiful night sky. Summary of Noto, Ishikawa Photo：Bentenjima in Koji, Noto-cho, Hōsu District, Ishikawa Prefecture Noto is a popular sightseeing area in Japan. This video, made from the perspective of someone enjoying life in the countryside, introduces various sightseeing spots in Noto, Ishikawa. Which one caught your eye? You can enjoy the ancient history, elegant Japanese tradition and culture of Kagahyakumangoku, the fisheries and agricultural resources nurtured by the ever-changing climate, and beautiful beaches. You can enjoy your own way of life in Noto, “The Home of Your Heart.” 【Official Website】Noto Town Hall https://www.town.noto.lg.jp/www/normal_top.jsp 【Official Website】Noto-cho tour guide - Noto Peninsula | Noto-cho, Ishikawa sightseeing portal site https://notocho.jp.e.ala.hp.transer.com/

A Look at Kunisaki City, Oita Prefecture If you're interested in Japanese culture and looking to find some cultural experiences during your visit to Japan, then look no further! "Kunisaki City, Oita Sightseeing PR Video【Kunisaki Way】" (大分県国東市観光PR動画【Kunisaki Way】), made by Kunisaki City Tourism Office, is packed with the charm of Kunisaki City, Oita Prefecture. Experience ascetic practices, Japanese cuisine, and traditional crafts. This is where you can have various Japanese cultural experience. This city is a great place for foreign visitors interested in Japan, or those who just want to learn more about Japan. Enjoy the culture, traditions and nature of Kunisaki City, Oita Prefecture in this video. Traditional Japanese Culture in Kunisaki City Photo：Futagoji Temple in Kunisaki When we say traditional Japanese culture, you're probably thinking of tea ceremony, ikebana and Haiku. However, Buddhism is also an important part of Japanese culture. Kunisaki City has many temples where you can try out zazen. Meditating while performing homa in a quiet mountain village will take you on a spiritual journey to discover what lies within. As you carry on with your busy daily life, do you sometimes feel like your mind is clouded or tired? If, like most people, you do, then we highly recommend trying meditation at a historic temple in Kunisaki City. Popular training Dojos include Senpukuji Temple, Rurikoji Temple, Monjusenji Temple, and Futagoji Temple. Meditation practice at Senpukuji Temple is shown from 0:33 in the video. It could become the highlight of your trip to Japan. Enjoy Delicious Japanese Cuisine in Kunisaki City Photo：Seki mackerel Kunisaki City faces the Seto Inland Sea and offers plenty of fresh seafood. Fish from Bungo Channel are fresh and lean thanks to the warm water of the Pacific Ocean and nutritious water of the Seto Inland Sea. Yellowtail and mackerel, as well as brand name fish like horse mackerel and Largehead hairtail, are delicious. Sashimi made from horse mackerel and yellowtail from Bungo Channel is to die for. Sakurao pork from Kunisaki City is also quite popular. The pigs here are raised in a stress-free environment, making their meat extremely tender. We recommend trying pork cutlets made from them. The video shows delicious foods from Kunisaki City at 1:25. Why not go to Kunisaki City and try some of the delicious local cuisine? Traditional Japanese Crafts and Art Are Also Big in Kunisaki City! Source :YouTube screenshot You can try out traditional Japanese culture and art in Kunisaki City as well. A place called Toinryo in Kunisaki City is a community center where people engaged in handicrafts and art activities meet. It is also an art exhibition venue, where you can see various artistic creations. The Shichitoi plant is also produced in Kunisaki. Shichitoi plants have 350 years of history and are used in tough Ryuku Tatami. The cardboard crafts are also beautiful. You wouldn’t guess that they are made of cardboard just by looking at them. If you're interested, check out the video from 2:13. Summary of Kunisaki City, Oita Prefecure Kunisaki City is a great place to experience Japanese culture. The Kebesu Festival, a fire festival in Kunisaki, Kunimi Furusato Exhibition Hall and Imibetsu Shrine are all great ways to experience Japanese history and culture. If you're curious, be sure to do some sightseeing! In addition to introducing Japanese culture, the video also introduces some spectacular areas and events where you can admire the natural landscape of Kunisaki City. The video shows a lot more than what we could get around to in this article, so be sure to check it out! 【Official Website】Oita Prefecture Kunisaki City Hall Website https://www.city.kunisaki.oita.jp/ 【Tripadviser】Kunisaki City, Oita Prefecture https://www.tripadvisor.jp/Tourism-g1023446-Kunisaki_Oita_Prefecture_Kyushu-Vacations.html

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