人気の観光スポット山口県の魅力たっぷりの動画を紹介 こちらの動画は「山口県観光動画集」が公開した「山口県観光PR動画｜ダイジェスト版（ロングVer ）」です。 明治維新の策源地となった山口県は、現在の日本の礎を作った歴史を垣間見ることができる観光地が多く存在している。 2015年に世界遺産に登録された「明治日本の産業革命遺産」は、日本の産業革命に大きく貢献した歴史的・文化的な建造物である。 九州エリアを中心に全23資産が世界遺産に登録されたが、山口県でも「萩反射炉」「恵美須ヶ鼻造船所跡」「大板山たたら製鉄遺跡」「萩城下町」「松下村宿」が世界遺産となった。 なかでも「萩城下町」「松下村宿」は明治維新で活躍した幕末志士たちの軌跡を辿ることができるおすすめの観光地である。 人気の観光スポット山口県には歴史的な雰囲気を楽しめる観光地がたくさん 山口県には世界遺産だけでなく、歴史の深い観光地がいくつもある。 なかでも山口県岩国市の錦川にかかる「錦帯橋」は日本三名橋・日本三大奇橋に数えられる人気の観光スポットだ。 錦帯橋の近くには「岩国城」もあり、「岩国城」から見下ろす景色は、まさに絶景である。 他にも、岬にずらりと並ぶ鳥居が幻想的な「元乃隅稲成神社」（山口県長門市）や特別天然記念物「秋吉台」「秋芳洞」（山口県美祢市）では、まるで異世界に来たかのような感覚を味わうことができる観光地だ。 また、山口県下関市の関門海峡には、多くの日本人に愛される剣豪「宮本武蔵」と「佐々木小次郎」が決闘を行ったという「巌流島（船島）」がある。 ここでは毎年5月に行われる「しものせき海峡まつり」のイベントの一環で決闘の再現も行っている。 人気の観光スポット山口県には家族で楽しめるレジャー施設もある 家族で山口県に旅行をする際におすすめのレジャー施設が「ときわ公園」だ。 この施設は、東京ドーム40個分の広大な公園であり、園内では日本の四季に合わせた色鮮やかな花々に囲まれ自然を満喫することができる。 また園内には動物園、遊園地、植物園が併設されているので子どもと一緒に楽しむことができるのも魅力的だ。 その他にも彫刻広場や「石炭記念館」などの大人だけでも楽しめる施設もあるので、山口県で旅先に迷ったら「ときわ公園」に行けば楽しめること間違いなし。 人気の観光スポット山口県のグルメといえば「ふく料理」 山口県でも最も有名なグルメと言えば「ふく料理」だろう。 山口県下関市で取れたフグを使った料理は、刺し身で食べられることが多く、一度食べたら忘れられない食感が特徴的だ。 山口県に来たらぜひとも地酒とともに食したい一品である。 また山口県下関市発祥の「瓦そば」は、熱した瓦の上に茶そばを盛り付ける特徴的な料理で、最近ではインスタ映えすると話題になった。 その他にも山口県岩国市周辺で作られている「岩国寿司」は、地元の美味しい食材を使った郷土料理だ。 地元の人々はお祝いの席などで食べることが多く、豪華絢爛な美しい見た目は観光客にも人気である。 人気の観光スポット山口県のお土産には「萩焼」がおすすめ 山口県は産業革命・明治維新とともに発展した地域であり、現在でも当時の痕跡が色濃く残っている。歴史深い文化も多く見られる。 山口県萩市一帯で作られている伝統工芸「萩焼」は、お茶を嗜む者ならだれでも知っているほど有名な陶器である。 素朴な日本らしい雰囲気でありながら、お茶に映える鮮やかな色の茶碗は、現在でも多くの愛用者が居るほどだ。 山口県に旅行に行った際には、「萩焼」をお土産に選んでみてはいかがだろうか。 喜ばれること間違いなしだ。 人気の観光スポット山口県紹介まとめ 山口県は飛行機を使った空路、新幹線や高速道路をつかった陸路、フェリーを使った海路などさまざまな手段で日本中どこからも観光に訪れることができる。 関西や九州に住んでいる方々なら車で日帰り旅行も視野に入るほどアクセスしやすいので、ぜひ山口県へ観光に訪れてみてはいかがだろうか。

元モーニング娘の高橋愛が紹介する福井県の観光動画について 「福井県観光連盟」が公開した「福の便り　～しあわせが届く故郷　福井～」は福井県出身の高橋愛が福井県の魅力を紹介している動画です。 福井県は福井県立恐竜博物館、ソースカツ丼、メガネ、越前和紙などさまざまな魅力があり、観光地としておすすめのスポットです。 美しい景観が見られる自然スポットも充実しているので、心をリフレッシュしたい人にもおすすめですよ。 こちらの記事では、高橋愛の故郷である福井県の観光名所や穴場スポットなどを動画と共に紹介します。 元モーニング娘の高橋愛が紹介する福井県で人気の歴史スポット 福井県で人気の歴史スポットといえば、曹洞宗の大本山永平寺です。 とても厳しい禅修行をする場所として有名です。 一般人でも短期間の修行体験ができ、座禅などで心身を鍛えることができます。 とても神聖なお寺なので参拝するだけでも気が引き締まり、リフレッシュできますよ。 こちらの動画の1:38より見ることができます。 一乗谷朝倉氏遺跡も福井を代表する歴史スポットのひとつ。 戦国時代に朝倉氏五代が越前の国を支配した城下町で、国の重要文化財に指定されている場所です。 当時の城下町の様子をほぼ完全な姿で再現されており、戦国時代にタイムスリップしたような感覚を味わえます。 他にも、平泉寺白山神社、旧松平家別邸「養浩館庭園」、百名城、丸岡城、羽賀城、国宝明通寺、鯖街道熊川宿、小浜三丁目など人気の歴史スポットがたくさんあります。 元モーニング娘の高橋愛が紹介する福井県でおすすめの絶景エリア 高橋愛の地元の福井を観光するなら美しい景色を見られるエリアもおすすめです。 龍双ヶ滝は「日本の滝100選」に選ばれている絶景スポットです。 落差60メートルある龍双ヶ滝の姿はとても美しく、マイナスイオンが充実した滝壺の周りにいると心が癒やされるはずです。 お花が好きな人は、足羽神社しだれ桜でゆっくり桜鑑賞するのもおすすめです。 桜の枝が綺麗なドーム型になっており、他ではなかなか見ることができません。 夜はライトアップされ幻想的な景勝を楽しめます。 他にも、金ヶ崎赤レンガ倉庫、足羽川桜並木、西山公園、花はす公園、名水百選瓜割の滝、水晶浜、水島、明鏡洞、九頭竜湖、世界三大奇勝東尋坊、百名山荒島竹、刈込池、もみじ百選萬徳寺などが福井県の見どころです。 元モーニング娘の高橋愛が紹介する福井県で人気のグルメ 福井県でおすすめのグルメはカニの王様である越前がにです。 日本海で育った立派な越前ガニは、他の産地のカニと比べて身がしっかりしていて美味しいと評判でとても人気があります。 また、高級な若狭ふぐもおすすめです。 身が締まってプリプリで刺し身やしゃぶしゃぶで食べると絶品です。 浜焼き鯖、葛まんじゅう、コシヒカリ、越前・若狭の地酒、越前おろしそばなどが福井県を代表するグルメです。 元モーニング娘の高橋愛が紹介する福井観光の記事のまとめ 高橋愛の地元である福井県には、さまざまな観光スポットやグルメが充実しています。 三国祭、三国水中花火、スーパー大火勢、いけだエコキャンドル、永平寺大燈籠流し、今庄羽曽踊りなどがあり、季節ごとにさまざまなイベントを楽しめます。 インスタ映えする景色を楽しみたい方、日本の歴史や文化を感じたい方には福井観光はおすすめですよ。

Video Introduction This video, titled "How to open Ramune??a marble in a bottle?," was uploaded by "Food Tripping," a channel that introduces all sorts of foods, both from Japan and around the world. How to Open Ramune, a Popular Summertime Drink in Japan Photo：How to open a Ramune bottle Ramune is a popular summertime drink in Japan. If you've never tried the drink before, or even heard of it, then you're missing out! Ramune has been around for quite a long time now, but if you've never had it before you might struggle with how to open it. Check out the video to see how to open a ramune bottle. [Video] 0:42 - How to open a Ramune bottle To open a Ramune bottle, remove the plastic wrapper along the perforations. Then, hold the special plunger that comes with the bottle in your hand. While holding the bottle with your other hand, push the plunger into the mouth of the bottle, and the marble that served as the stopper will fall down into the bottle. Disposing of Ramune Bottles These old-fashioned Ramune bottles are made of glass. Therefore, some people may not know how to dispose of them. Glass Ramune bottles must be disposed of according to the regulations of each municipality in Japan. Alternatively, they are sometimes accepted by supermarkets and liquor stores. In the case of glass Ramune bottles, it's possible to reuse them, so it is best to return them to the place where you purchased the Ramune. Why Ramune Has a Marble Inside It Photo：Ramune Today, ordinary ramune bottles are corked with a marble. By dropping the marble, the stopper is released and the Ramune is ready to drink. Ramune itself is delicious but the bottle is also fun to open and can leave you feeling nostalgic. If you had the joy of opening drinks like this or eating snacks with an extra element of fun added in when you were a kid. When Ramune bottles were first sold, they were sealed with a cork instead of a marble. However, because of the high price of cork and the fact that it drained the carbonation of the Ramune, marbles were conceived as an alternative. According to one theory, the marble method was developed in England in 1872, and imported to Japan in 1887, where the marble Ramune bottle became widespread. Later, however, the use of PET bottles and other bottles became popular as substitutes for glass Ramune bottles in Japan, leading to many manufacturers discontinuing the use of glass Ramune bottles. The old-fashioned marble stopper Ramune bottle is a summertime tradition in Japan and is considered the original Ramune. Although the glass bottle style is decreasing due to the rise of PET bottles, Ramune bottles are once again attracting attention on Japanese social media, such as Instagram. Where to Buy Ramune in Japan Photo：A Ramune bottle It might be difficult to find Ramune if you aren't actively looking for it. However, they're sold at supermarkets and candy stores in Japan, so if you manage to find them at a supermarket, consider trying it out! A case of 30 200 ml bottles costs about 3,000 yen (~$22 USD), so you can enjoy the refreshing taste of bottled Ramune for about 100 yen per bottle. Summary of Ramune, a Tasty Drink to Cool of During Japan's Hot Summers In this article, we introduced Ramune, a popular summertime drink/tradition in Japan. If you've never had the chance to try Ramune, definitely give it a try. You even get a free marble to play around with afterwards! Recently, bottled Ramune has been popularized on Japanese social media among the younger generation because of its retro look and how photogenic it is on Instagram. If you're a fan of anime/manga and light novels, you may have even heard about Ramune from the light novel "Chitose is in the Ramune Bottle." Originally, Ramune is said to have originated from lemonade, which was created in England, and its refreshing taste and cool feeling are what make it so great for summer. If you're craving some Ramune after reading this, don't be shy, pick up a bottle next time you see it!

Hinokage, Miyazaki - Enjoy a Splendid View of Japan This video, titled "Hinokage" (日之影町), was released by "Miyazaki Prefecture Association of Towns and Villages" (宮崎県町村会). Hinokage, Miyazaki, has a long history. Following the abolition of feudal domains in July 1871, the town was renamed Hinokage (日之影町 > 日の影町, different spelling), on January 1, 1951. Hinokage, Miyazaki Prefecture, has many of the most famous tourist spots in Japan, and is secretly garnering attention as a town with spectacular views and hidden tourist attractions. Please enjoy the video as it shows the beautiful landscapes of Hinokage, Miyazaki, along with a popular walking course. Sightseeing Spots in Hinokage, Miyazaki, Where You Can See the Original Scenery of Japan Source :YouTube screenshot Here are some popular tourist attractions in Hinokage, Miyazaki. The highlight of sightseeing in Hinokage is "Sandaikyo"(The Three Great Bridges). These are: ・ Seiun Bridge: A beautiful arch bridge that boasts the largest scale in the east. The contrast with the surrounding scenery is magnificent. ・ Ryutenkyo: A bridge for carrying felled trees in harsh climates. It is the tallest forest road bridge in Japan, built over a deep ravine. ・ Tensho Ohashi: A concrete arch bridge, with wind power providing nighttime lighting. ・ Ishigaki no Mura, Togawa (Video: 0:13 ～) A village of 7 houses along the clear, sparkling Hinokage River. It's made of beautiful stone walls, and there are breathtaking rice terraces in the village that have been selected as one of the Top 100 Rice Terraces of Japan. ・ England House (Video: 1:31 ～) The building was constructed by Hans Hunter, an Englishman who ran the Mitate Mine, as his own home and quarters for his engineers. In 2001, it was designated as a Nationally Registered Famous Cultural Property. Popular Outdoor Activities in Hinokage, Miyazaki, a Scenic Location Overflowing With Natural Beauty Source :YouTube screenshot Hinokage, which is blessed with beautiful natural scenery, has many popular outdoor activities. ・Former TR railway site walking course (Video: 1:46 ～) The area between Gomi Station, Hyuga-Yato Station, and Makimine Station, which was given free of charge from Takachiho Railway, is maintained as a "Forest Therapy Road." The station building, railway bridge, and railway sleepers are left as they are and are open to the public as a walking route. ・ Nanaore Limestone Cave A limestone cave designated as a national natural monument. ・ Hinokage Camp Village (Video: 1:17 ～) A campsite at the starting point of Forest Therapy Road. It's a highly recommended facility with bungalows and shower facilities, where you can enjoy mountain stream fishing and playground equipment installed in nature. Hinokage Kagura - A Great Way To Enjoy the Historical Town of Hinokage, Miyazaki! Source :YouTube screenshot As can be seen from 2:07 in the video, in Hinokage, Miyazaki, traditional Japanese Kagura has been passed down amongst the residents for years. Kagura is a dance dedicated to the gods of Japanese Shintoism, and is modeled on Japanese mythology. Hinokage has a harsh climate resulting in many years of poor harvests, so the Kagura dance has traditionally been performed to pray for the fertility of the land. Seeing the breathtaking kagura dance is a great way to remember your trip and will look great on Instagram. There is also an unusual hot springs hotel in Hinokage. This is Hinokage Onsen Station & TR Train Inn. This is a hot spring facility that uses the remains of Takachiho Onsen Station, where you can stay in a train car from that era. Gourmet Information Around Hinokage, Miyazaki, One of Japan's Most Scenic Places Photo：soft sweet bean jelly or paste Hinokage is rich in products that come from the mountain, but it is especially famous for producing chestnuts. In autumn, many large and chewy chestnuts are harvested and used in Japanese sweets, including kuri okowa, kuri manju, and kuri yokan; as well as Western sweets such as Mont Blanc. There is also a roadside station near Seiun Bridge, where you can enjoy chicken nanban, which is famous as a local dish in Miyazaki prefecture. Summary of Hinokage, Miyazaki, a Town of History and Nature Source :YouTube screenshot Hinokage is a quiet village in the mountains of Miyazaki Prefecture. It is a popular tourist destination with lots of beautiful natural scenery and various tourist destinations. Events in Hinokage include the Kagura held in the winter, the carp streaming event in May, and many more. Please check the official website of Hinokage for a detailed schedule of events. Enjoy the charm of Hinokage, Miyazaki Prefecture alongside the video.

Tendo Shogi Koma" Video Introduction in Tendo City, Yamagata Prefecture This video, titled "TEWAZA/TENDO-SHOGI-KOMA/Japan Traditional Crafts Aoyama Square" (手技TEWAZA「天童将棋駒」TENDO-SHOGI-KOMA／伝統工芸 青山スクエア Japan traditional crafts Aoyama Square), was uploaded by "Japan Traditional Crafts Aoyama Square" (伝統工芸 青山スクエア). Tendo Shogi Koma Source :YouTube screenshot The Tendo Shogi Koma featured in this video are shogi pieces made in and around the city of Tendo, Yamagata, in Japan's Tohoku region. Tendo Shogi Koma account for about 90% of all shogi pieces produced in Japan. There are different types of Tendo Shogi Koma according to the way they are made and the materials they are made from, and they also vary in price. The materials used for Tendo Shogi pieces include high-grade Japanese boxwood, grey snake-bark maple, and Japanese bigleaf magnolia. Not just the type of wood, but also the grain patterns are important for Tendo Shogi Koma, with the more beautiful the patterns creating higher quality pieces. Among Tendo Shogi pieces, the most affordable sets for beginners are oshi-koma, pieces with characters stamped on them. After that are kaki-koma, in which the characters are written in lacquer, followed by hori-koma, in which the characters are carved into the pieces, and finally horiume-koma, in which lacquer is applied to the grooves of the carved characters creating a 3-dimensional look. The hand-carved and lacquered pieces, made using traditional techniques, are beautifully finished and considered a luxury item. The pieces used by professional shogi masters in tournament play use Japanese boxwood with carved lettering filled with lacquer that creates raised lettering. The price of Tendo Shogi Koma range from a few thousand yen to over 200,000 yen for a set of the highest quality pieces. Shogi pieces can also be purchased online. The handmade Tendo Shogi Koma are characterized by their luxurious and smooth feel and the commanding sound they make placed on a square. The History and Origins of Tendo Shogi Koma Shogi pieces have their origins in India, where Western chess was introduced to the East. It is said that the manufacturing of Tendo Shogi Koma began at the end of the Edo period (1603-1868) when it was encouraged as a secondary occupation for samurai. It was the Tendo Oda clan during the Edo period that encouraged the manufacture of the pieces as a form of supplementary income. Tourism in Tendo, Yamagata Photo：Tendo Park Shogi Statue, Tendo, Yamagata Tendo, Yamagata is known as the home of shogi pieces. In the video, you can see art shogi pieces scattered around Tendo, the town of shogi. [Video] 0:01 - Shogi Art The Tendo Cherry Blossom Festival's "Human Shogi" is well known among tourists. In this event, professionals play a game with humans dressed in armor and kimono representing the pieces. In addition, at the Tendo Shogi Museum, located at JR Tendo Station, Tendo Shogi Koma are displayed and souvenir goods are sold in the event hall. There is also a hands-on workshop for making kaki-koma, so consider checking it out. Making Tendo Shogi Koma Source :YouTube screenshot Here, we'll go over how Tendo Shogi Koma are made. Crafting Process 1. Creating Pieces from Raw Timber Wood is dried and cut into the shape of a shogi piece. 2. Carving the Characters Characters are carved by hand with a piece of paper on which the characters are written. 3. Applying Lacquer Natural lacquer is repeatedly applied to the grooves where the characters have been carved and allowed to dry. 4. Porcelain Polishing The final step in polishing the surface of the piece is to polish it using porcelain. 5. Mori-Age-Koma To make the characters appear raised on the piece, the lacquer is applied over and over again. In the video, you can see the craftsmen at work in various workshops. [Video] 0:26 - How Tendo Shogi Koma are Made Summary of Tendo Shogi Koma The video displays the beauty of the pieces from the wood all the way down to their feel. It demonstrates the skill of these master artisans. It's even said that the Mori-Age (pieces with raised lettering) Tendo Shogi Koma improve the concentration of professional players. Check out the video to see the Tendo Shogi Koma, a traditional Japanese craft that has been passed down by craftsmen for hundreds of years.

This video, titled "Kunio Kobayashi Bonsai demonstration," was released by Bonsai Empire (盆栽エンパイア). In this video, you can see the performance of Kunio Kobayashi, a bonsai master, at a bonsai event in Italy. Mr. Kunio Kobayashi has built a bonsai museum in Japan and has been promoting bonsai around the world. The video shows him impressing the people of Italy with his techniques.

Video introduction of “Red Soybean Natto” made by a natto craftsman in Kyoto, Japan This video, titled "How to make a Delicious Japanese "Kyo-Natto" Amazing "Natto" Master in Kyoto Japan![ASMR][DELI BALI]," was uploaded by "DELI BALI." This series features Kyo-natto, a popular product in Japan's Kansai region, made by Fujiwara Foods, near Kuramaguchi Station in Kyoto. Check out the video below to see how the delicious Kyo-Natto is made. Red Soybeans - One of the Many Varieties of Soybeans! Photo：3 types of soybeans Did you know that there are many varieties of soybeans? When you hear the word "soybeans," the first thing that comes to mind is probably the common yellow soybean. However, there are actually other varieties of soybeans, including red soybeans, green soybeans, and even black soybeans. Among the many varieties, red soybeans are a rare variety with few farmers growing them. Their nutritional value and flavor are superior to those of other varieties, and they are highly sought after. Different Ways to Eat Red Soybeans One problem many people have with natto is that the soybean skin remains in their mouth even after they've finished eating. The skin of red soybeans is so thin that it easily passes through the teeth, and the texture is pleasant, so the skin does not remain in the mouth. Also, because of its strong umami flavor, many recipes have been published for people who want to taste the full flavor of the bean, such as nimame (boiled soybeans). In addition to the sweet nimame, there are many other ways to enjoy soybeans, such as boiled in salted water, served with rice, or with spinach and tofu dressing. There are many different recipes to try out. In this video, red soybean natto is used as an ingredient. Kyo-Natto - The Creme de la Creme of Natto Source :YouTube screenshot The video introduces Fujiwara Foods, a leading natto manufacturer in Kyoto. In addition to natto made from common soybeans, the company also produces red soybean natto and green soybean natto. Several types of natto, including "Kyo-Natto Otsubu" (京納豆大粒, Large Bean Kyo-Natto) and "Kamogawa Natto" (鴨川納豆, Kamo River Natto), which won an excellence award for five consecutive years at the Japan Natto Competition, are loved by many natto fans. The process of making red soybean natto begins with the artisan's hand washing of the beans. The beans are gently washed by hand and soaked in water until they are about twice their original size. From there, the red soybeans are cooked in a pressure cooker. In the video, you can see the pressure cooker, which is full of Fujiwara Foods' commitment and history. After the beans are cooked, natto bacillus is immediately sprayed on the beans. Before the beans cool down, the natto is packed and left in the fermentation room for another 20 hours before the red soybean natto is finally ready. President Fujiwara says he never liked natto and did not want to take over his family's business. However, he is now known as a natto maker with fans not only in Kyoto but all across Japan. Summary of Kyo-Natto, a Natto Made With Red Soybeans Natto is a food for all genders and ages because of its high quality protein, so much so that it's called "Hatake no Niku" (畑の肉, 'the meat of the fields') in Japan. Furthermore, in recent years, soybeans have been attracting attention from people interested in dieting as a low-sugar food. Natto is made from fermented soybeans, which makes it even more nutritious. However, as the president of Fujiwara Foods disliked natto, it is a food that Japanese people are quite divided about. For those who dislike the smell, using spices such as wasabi, garlic, or curry seems to make it easier to eat. Be sure to give it a try if you dislike natto yourself. Even some natto lovers probably didn't know that there's red soybean natto and green soybean natto, or they may have known about them but have never eaten them. You'd be surprised at how different the different types of soybeans are. Red soybean natto is on a whole different level from regular natto. Be sure to give it a try!

The Popular Awa Odori Dance Festival of Tokushima This video, titled "AWA ODORI - IS JAPAN COOL? MATSURI - Festival (Awa Odori Dance Festival/Tokushima)" (AWA ODORI - IS JAPAN COOL? MATSURI - 祭 （阿波踊り／徳島）), was uploaded by ANA Global Channel. It introduces the Awa Odori Dance Festival of Tokushima. Among the various festivals held in Japan throughout the year, Tokushima's Awa Odori Dance Festival is one of the most famous and popular festivals among Japanese people. In this article, we'll introduce the origins and history of the Awa Odori Dance Festival, as well as some nearby tourist attractions! The History of the Awa Odori Dance Festival Photo：Taiko drums at Awa Odori, Tokushima Prefecture The Awa Odori Dance Festival is a festival with a history dating back more than 400 years in Tokushima, which was once referred to as Awa Province. The festival's history dates back to the Edo Period (1603-1868) when indigo merchants in the Awa Province enjoyed the entertainment of geisha. After the Meiji Period (1868-1912), the content of the dance became gradually more refined. If you want to learn more about the history of the Awa Odori Dance Festival, we recommend visiting Awaodori Kaikan, a museum in the center of Tokushima City. More About the Awa Odori Dance Festival Photo：Awa Odori, Tokushima Prefecture Bon dances and festivals are held in many parts of Japan during the Obon season. The Awa Odori Dance Festival in Tokushima is one of the bon festival events, and is called "Awa no Bon Odori." It is held from August 12th to 15th every year. The scale of the event is so large that it is considered one of the three major Bon Dances in Japan and one of the three major festivals of Shikoku (the smallest of Japan’s major islands). More than 100,000 dancers participate in the Awa Odori Dance Festival, and over a million visitors come to the festival each year. From just the sheer number of visitors, it's easy to understand that it's a popular festival that represents Japanese culture. Feel the Heat of the Awa Odori Dance Festival! Photo：Awa Odori, Tokushima Prefecture As you can see at 8:26 in the video, the music of Tokushima's Awa Odori uses traditional Japanese instruments, such as drums, gongs, flutes, and shamisen. The people who join the dance wear kimono or yukata, braided hats, geta (wooden clogs) and carry lanterns. There are two types of dances, men's dance and women's dance, be sure to watch both as they're quite different. At the end of the festival, more than 1,000 people dance in unison, and the streets are filled with music and cheering. If you want to experience the power of the festival with a good view, we recommend purchasing bleacher seats, like the ones shown in the video. By joining the "Niwaka-ren" dance group on the day of the festival, you can have a blast dancing at the festival! This can be seen at 11:18 in the video. Summary of Tokushima's Awa Odori Dance Festival Photo：Awa Odori, Tokushima Prefecture The Awa Odori Dance Festival is a traditional festival that shows us the beauty of Japan through traditional performing arts. There's a saying in Japanese that goes “Odoru aho ni miru aho, onaji aho nara odoranya son son” (踊る阿呆にみる阿呆、同じ阿呆なら踊らにゃ損々), which roughly translates to "If the dancer is a fool, so too then is the spectator, so why not everybody dance?!" Joining in the Awa Odori Dance Festival will make for an unforgettable experience! 【Tripadvisor】Awa Odori https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g298236-d10019439-Reviews-Awa_Odori-Tokushima_Tokushima_Prefecture_Shikoku.html

Video introduction of Doze-nabe (Dojo-nabe) at Tatsumiya (Tonan-ya), a famous restaurant in Asakusa, Taito-ku, Tokyo Dojo loach hot pot, which is famous as a traditional Japanese old-town dish, comes into season from spring to summer. The area around Kaminari-mon Gate, in particular, is full of famous dojo-hot-pot restaurants and hot-pot pubs surrounding a sunken hearth with a downtown feel that is still very much alive today. This video introduces Tatsumi-Ya, a traditional restaurant in old town Asakusa that serves dojo loach hot pot, as well as the cooking process for this traditional Japanese cuisine. As a famous dojo-hot-pot restaurant, Tatsumi-Ya has been loved by intellectuals and sightseers for years. Just looking at the crunchy dojo loach karaage and dojo loach hot pot is enough to get your mouth watering. Watch this video to learn all you need to know about the delicious dojo loach hot pot! The Origin and History of Dojo Loach Hot Pot Source :This article Video When did people start eating dojo loach hot pot? Dojo loach, an exceptionally resilient river fish, was an important source of protein for local residents, referred to as "Edokko" (江戸っ子), in the town of Edo (Current day Tokyo) thanks to its well-developed waterways. There were many pilgrims around Sensoji Temple (浅草寺 Sensoji), the oldest temple in Tokyo, and the local people in Asakusa welcomed them with dojo loach dishes, using the dojo loach from the Sumida River (隅田川, Sumidagawa), formerly the Arakawa River (荒川, Arakawa). This is said to be the origin of dojo loach hot pot. In 1806, dojo loach hot pot started to be written "どぜう" (typically pronounced dozeu) instead of its original name "どじょう" (Both are pronounced "dojo"). The origin of this change is said to be Echigoya Sukeshichi (越後谷助七), the founder of Komagata Dojo (駒形どぜう), one of the most popular restaurants in Asakusa. When his restaurant burned down in the Great Fire of Edo, he thought a store name using four characters would bring ill fortune. Because of this, instead of four characters, he spelled his store name with three characters. The number "4" is pronounced "shi" in Japanese, and traditionally it is also connected with the word “death” (死) in Japanese, which is pronounced the same. The Menu and Recipe of Tatsumi-Ya Source :This article Video Dojo loach hot pot has three main cooking styles. Given the fact that it goes by 3 different names- dojo loach nabe, Edo-Nabe (江戸鍋), and Edomae-Nabe (江戸前鍋), we can tell that it was a very famous dish in the city of Edo. The first cooking style is called "Maru-Nabe" (丸鍋). This involves putting live dojo loach into a container of Japanese sake and covering it with a lid. When the dojo loach stop kicking, they are placed on a round iron plate with lots of green onions and eaten with seasonings, such as Japanese pepper and Shichimi-Togarashi (七味唐辛子), a chili pepper spice. In this video, you can watch the live dojo loach getting quieter and quieter in a container of Japanese sake around 1:53. Be sure to check it out! The second style of recipe is called "Nuki-Nabe"(ぬき鍋); a hot pot dish similar to sukiyaki. This method involves cutting the dojo loach open along the back, and cooking it with burdock roots. The third and most popular style of dojo loach hot-pot is called "Yanagawa-Nabe" (柳川鍋). This involves dropping eggs in Nuki-Nabe and stewing everything together. What these styles have in common is not just dojo loach; all of these methods involve stewing dojo loach with tofu and green onions. In the introductory video of Tatsumi-Ya’s dojo loach dishes, the chef shows how to cook dojo loach hot pot. You can see this at 14:52. You can also see people eating the cooked dojo loach hot pot with lots of chopped onions over fluffy eggs. It looks like it pairs nicely with white rice as well. In addition to the hot pot dishes, another famous dish is dojo loach karaage. This involves putting flour on live dojo loach and then deep-frying them. This can be seen at the beginning of the video. Tatsumi-Ya’s Dojo Loach Hot Pot: The Stamina-Boosting Dish to Beat the Heat! Dojo loach dishes in Asakusa are a common theme in the summer, but you're probably wondering why people would want to eat hot dojo loach dishes in the warmest season of the year. First, dojo loach is a stream fish, so it has a unique smell. To get rid of the smell, chefs often cook dojo loach with burdock roots. Since burdock roots are very hard, they must be stewed in a nabe pot to make them softer and easier to eat. Another reason for this comes from a traditional Japanese trick for staying cool in summer. After working up a sweat, the cool evening breeze allows us to cool our bodies. Around 18:09 in the video, you can see a piping hot dojo loach hot pot dish. Look at all the mouth watering goodness! Summary of Dojo Loach Hot Pot in Old Town Asakusa Source :This article Video Dojo loach dishes have been very popular among local people since the Edo period. This video shows how to cook dojo loach dishes by the chefs of Tatsumi-Ya in old-town Asakusa, Tokyo. Dishes like this are eaten less often these days, but if you're looking to boost your stamina to survive the hot summer in Japan, then you've got to try the dojo loach dishes at the famous Japanese restaurant "Tatsumi-Ya" in Asakusa! It’s also fun to watch the chef's amazing knife skills. Be sure to take a look at the video to see all the amazing dojo loach dishes! 【yelp】 TatsumiYa https://www.yelp.com/biz/%E3%81%9F%E3%81%A4%E3%81%BF%E5%B1%8B-%E6%B5%85%E8%8D%89%E5%BA%97-%E5%8F%B0%E6%9D%B1%E5%8C%BA?osq=%E3%81%9F%E3%81%A4%E3%81%BF%E5%B1%8B

Video introduction - "Hakata Gion Yamakasa" Fukuoka Prefecture This video, titled "Hakata Gion Yamakasa 2022 Ichiban Yamakasa "Ebisu Nagare" (博多祇園山笠2022　一番山笠「恵比須流」), was uploaded by "KBC Kyushu Asahi broadcast." Hakata Gion Yamakasa is a Japanese summer festival held mainly in the Hakata Ward of Fukuoka City, Fukuoka Prefecture, in Japan's Kyushu region. 2022 marked the first time in three years that the festival floats, called Yamakasa, were paraded through the city of Fukuoka. This video shows the climax of the festival, called Oiyama. Yamakasa of the Ebisu school, the first Yamakasa, is carried vigorously into Kushida Shrine. After the gallant shouts of the men, a festive song, which is sung only by the first Yamakasa, can be heard throughout the area. You can feel the power of the Yamakasa and the excitement of the people in the video. Be sure to check it out to feel the passion of the people carrying the Yamakasa for yourself. What is Hakata Gion Yamakasa? History and Facts About the Unique Summer Festival of Fukuoka, Japan Photo：Hakata Gion Yamakasa, Fukuoka Hakata Gion Yamakasa is a Shinto ritual dedicated to Kushida Shrine, the chief Shinto deity of Hakata. Along with the Hakata Dontaku Festival, it's one of the most popular festivals in Fukuoka. The origin of the festival dates back to 1241. It's said to have originated when the Zen priest Seiichi Kokushi sprinkled water from a platform carried by the people and prayed for the eradication of an epidemic. (The theory according to the Hakata Gion Yamakasa Promotion Association) Hakata Gion Yamakasa, which will be held for the 782nd time in 2023, was registered as a National Important Intangible Folk Cultural Property in 1979, and its history and traditions have been recognized by the government of Japan. Every year, the festival attracts many spectators, both foreign and domestic, and it's estimated that as many as 3 million people attend the festival. Hakata Gion Yamakasa is characterized by the seven "nagare" that support the festival. A nagare is a regional organization comprised of several towns. The origin of these nagare dates back to when Toyotomi Hideyoshi called for the reconstruction of the war-torn Hakata area, and divided the area into districts nearly 500 years ago. Each Nagare carries its own Yamakasa (festival float), and the sight of them running through the town is truly impressive. The costumes of the men who carry the Yamakasa are different for each nagare, and the unique mizu-happi coats (a special type of happi) and shimekomi (a type of loincloth) show off the unique culture of the festival while enhancing its atmosphere. Women do not carry the Yamakasa, but they support their husbands participating in the festival from behind the scenes. Today, Yamakasa are also carried by children in order to allow them to experience the tradition and pass it on to the next generation. There are two main ways to enjoy the festival: Watch the yamakasa floats being carried through the city as fast as the carriers can run, or enjoy the decorative floats parading through the towns. What is Ooi Yamakasa? What are the highlights and ways to enjoy "Hakata Gion Yamakasa"? Photo：Decorated yamakasa floats at Kushida Shrine Hakata Gion Yamakasa is a festival with a long history. Here, we'll introduce the different things to see and do at the festival. ●View the Gorgeously Decorated Yamakasa During the festival, decorated floats are displayed at 14 locations throughout the city. The decorated Yamakasa are different from the yamakasa that are carried at high speed through the city and are beautifully decorated with dolls made by doll makers from Hakata. While historical events and Japanese folktales are often used as themes for the floats, the back side of the Yamakasa floats are often inspired by anime and TV programs. Because of this, children can also enjoy the festival by seeing their favorite characters on the floats. ●The Group Yamakasa Run The Group Yamakasa Run is an event in which the Yamakasa are carried from Hakata and into the center of Fukuoka City. The sight of the Yamakasa running one after another through the center of the city attracts many visitors, adding to the excitement, making it a popular attraction in Fukuoka. ●The biggest climax of the festival! Oki Yamakasa Oishi Yamakasa" starts at 4:59 a.m. on July 15 with the dedication of Ichiban Yamakasa to Kushida-iri to the signal of a drum, followed by eight Yamakasa making their way to Kushida-iri. Yamakasa run through the 5km course from Kushida Shrine to the goal, competing for the best time. The tense atmosphere before the Yamakasa festival begins is quickly followed by a surge of excitement and shouts of encouragement. The momentum of the Yamakasa floats and the dynamic way they run through the streets will take your breath away. This is the best part of the Hakata Gion Yamakasa festival. If you haven't seen it yet, be sure to check it out in the video. When is Hakata Gion Yamakasa 2024? Check out the event schedule! The 2024 Hakata Gion Yamakasa will be held from July 1 to 15 as usual. In 2024, there will be an even greater variety of titled floats and decorative floats than in previous years. Especially popular will be the Hakata Station Shopping Federation's "One Piece" from the popular anime "One Piece". The Hachiban Yamakasa Kamikawabata Dori will be decorated with "Mobile Suit Gundam," an anime design that is popular worldwide and is sure to be a topic of conversation. Hakata Gion Yamakasa starts on July 1st. Starting with an event to purify the area, decorated Yamakasa will be displayed, and visitors will be able to see Yamakasa being carried every day, starting with Nagaregaki on July 10th. On the 11th, Asayama and Tanagaregaki are held, on the 12th, Oiyamanarashi, a rehearsal for Oiyama, and on the 13th, the group yamakasa event will be held in the center of Fukuoka City. On the 14th, the last Nagaregaki of the year, and at 4:59 am on the 15th, the Oiyama finale will take place, bringing Hakata Gion Yamakasa to a close. What Is Hakata? A Brief Introduction to the Ward in Downtown Fukuoka Hakata is a ward in Fukuoka, Japan with a population of 256,000. Extending from the port to the hills, Hakata is located directly in the center of Fukuoka and is rife with ancient temples and shrines, as well as various famous landmarks. Besides Hakata Gion Yamakasa, Hakata Dontaku is another famous festival that takes place in Hakata, and there are also numerous events that are held throughout the year. Hakata is also famous for its specialty Hakata Ramen which is characterized by its cloudy pork bone soup and super-thin noodles. If you're looking for things to eat in Hakata, this is a must- try! Summary of Hakata Gion Yamakasa Photo：Kushida Shrine, Hakata, Fukuoka Hakata Gion Yamakasa is a summer festival in Fukuoka with many highlights. There are 7 districts that participate in carrying the yamakasa floats, all of which have their own unique characteristics and decorations. If you're planning to go to the Oiyama finale or the group yamakasa event, be sure to prepare in advance as many residents and tourists are expected to attend the event. Be sure to check the schedule and course information on the official website before making your way to the event. And don't forget to take all the necessary precautions to protect yourself from the heat! There's plenty of things to do in Fukuoka Prefecture, so if you're planning on traveling to Fukuoka, consider lining up your trip with the festival. It's sure to be an unforgettable experience! 【Official Website】Hakata Gion Yamakasa

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

How to Use Onsen: Video Introduction 温泉おんせんの入はいり方かたの動画どうが紹介しょうかい This video, titled "Japanese ONSEN Manners" (日本にほんの温泉おんせんマナー　Japanese ONSEN Manners), was uploaded by "LetsJapanCh." 今回こんかいは、『LetsJapanCh.』さん制作せいさくの『日本にほんの温泉おんせんマナー　Japanese ONSEN Manners』という動画どうがを紹介しょうかいします。 It introduces how to use onsen in Japan. 温泉おんせんの入はいり方かたを説明せつめいする動画どうがです。 What Are Japan's Onsen? 日本にほんの温泉おんせんとは？ Photo：Hot springs at Kusatsu Onsen（写真しゃしん：草津温泉くさつおんせんの湯畑ゆばたけ） Onsen, written "温泉おんせん" (温, On (Warm); 泉, Sen (Spring)) in kanji, is the Japanese word for "hot spring." 温泉おんせん（漢字かんじでは、「温（あたたかい）」「泉（いずみ）」）は英語えいごの「hot spring」という意味いみです。 Japan is one of the world's leading hot spring countries, and there are around 28,000 onsen in Japan. 日本にほんは世界せかい有数ゆうすうの温泉おんせん大国たいこくで、約やく28,000にまんはっせんの温泉おんせんがあると言いわれています。 It's not known exactly when Japan's onsen culture came to be, but records of onsen appear in historical texts, such as the Nihon Shoki (Chronicles of Japan), from Japan's Nara Period (710-794). 日本にほんの温泉おんせんの文化ぶんかがいつ頃ごろ生うまれたかは明あきらかではありませんが、奈良なら時代じだいの「日本にほん書紀しょき」などの歴史的れきしてきな書類しょるいにも温泉おんせんの記録きろくがあります。 Onsen Rules/Etiquette & How to Use Onsen in Japan 日本にほんの温泉おんせんの入はいり方かたとルール・マナーを紹介しょうかい Photo：Noren at a public bath（写真しゃしん：銭湯せんとうの暖簾のれんのイメージ） Because Japan's onsen culture dates back more than 1,000 years, there are many different rules, manners, and customs to observe when using them. 日本にほんの温泉おんせんの文化ぶんかは1000せん年ねん以上いじょうの歴史れきしがあります。しかし、日本にほんの温泉おんせんを利用りようするときには様々さまざまなルールやマナー、習慣しゅうかんがあります。 Let's take a look at how to use onsen in Japan. ここでは、日本にほんでの温泉おんせんの入はいり方かたについてご紹介しょうかいします。 As shown in the video, there are two entrances at an onsen- one for women and one for men. 動画どうがで紹介しょうかいされているように、温泉おんせんには女性じょせい用ようと男性だんせい用ようの入いり口ぐちがあります。 The entrances are marked by curtains called "Noren." 入いり口ぐちには「暖簾のれん」というものがあります。 The noren for the men's onsen generally have the kanji '男' (man), while the noren for the women's onsen have the kanji '女' (woman). 男湯おとこゆの暖簾のれんには「男おとこ」、女湯おんなゆの暖簾のれんには「女おんな」という漢字かんじが書かいてあるのが一般的いっぱんてきです。 [Video] 0:26 - Noren & Entrances for Men and Women 【動画どうが】0:26～　暖簾のれんと男性だんせい用よう・女性じょせい用ようの入いり口ぐち If you're not used to Japan's onsen culture, this may come as a surprise, but before entering an onsen, one must get completely naked. 日本にほんの温泉おんせんの文化ぶんかに慣なれていない人ひとはびっくりするかもしれませんが、温泉おんせんに入はいる前まえに完全かんぜんに裸はだかにならなければなりません。 This means no swimsuits, slippers, etc. つまり、水着みずぎやスリッパなどは着用ちゃくようしません。 One reason is that wearing swimsuits can dirty the water, but another reason is that the swimsuits will weaken the therapeutic effects of the onsen. 水着みずぎを着きるとお湯ゆが汚よごれるという理由りゆうもありますが、温泉おんせんの効能こうのうが弱よわまってしまうという理由りゆうもあります。 [Video] 0:58 - What to Wear in a Japanese Onsen 【動画どうが】0:58～　日本にほんの温泉おんせんでの服装ふくそうについて Before entering an onsen there are a few other things one must do. 温泉おんせんに入る前まえに、いくつかの手順てじゅんがあります。 The first is to pour water over the body. まず、体からだにお湯ゆをかけること。 This is to acclimate your body to the temperature of the onsen, and also to wash the body of dirt and cleanse it of impurities/evil spirits. これは温泉おんせんの温度おんどに体からだを慣ならすとともに、体からだを洗あらって、穢けがれを落おとすためです。 [Video] 1:22 - Pouring Water Over Oneself Before Entering the Onsen 【動画どうが】1:22～　温泉おんせんに入はいる前まえにかけ湯ゆ After cleansing your body, it's time for a shower. 体からだを洗あらった後あとは、シャワーを浴あびます。 Unlike normal showers where you would shower standing up, it's proper manners to sit down when showering at an onsen. 通常つうじょうのシャワーは立たって浴あびますが、温泉おんせんでは座すわって浴あびるのがマナーです。 This is to prevent the water from splashing on others who may also be showering. これは、同おなじようにシャワーを浴あびている人ひとに水みずがかからないようにするためです。 Onsen are shared spaces, and so it's important to be mindful of others. 温泉おんせんは共有きょうゆうの空間くうかんなので、他ほかの人ひとを気きづかうことが大切たいせつです。 [Video] 2:13 - Showering Before Entering the Onsen 【動画どうが】2:13～　温泉おんせんに入はいる前まえにシャワー Many people may think it's common sense to not bring stools into the baths, but it's still a important. 湯船ゆぶねに腰掛こしかけを持もち込こまないのは常識じょうしきと思おもわれる人ひとが多おおいかもしれませんが、大切たいせつなことです。 Actually, bringing any outside objects into the onsen is generally considered bad manners. また、温泉おんせんの中なかに物ものを持もち込こむのはマナー違反いはんとされています。 Things like squirt guns, pool noodles, etc., are not allowed in onsen. 温泉おんせんでは水鉄砲みずでっぽうやプール・ヌードルなどは禁止きんしです。 [Video] 1:58 - Don't Bring Outside Objects Inside the Onsen 【動画どうが】1:58～　外部がいぶからの物ものを湯船ゆぶねにつけない While onsen are a place for relaxing, sleeping inside or near the baths is bad manners. 温泉おんせんはリラックスするための場所ばしょですが、湯船ゆぶねの中なかや近ちかくで寝ねるのはマナー違反いはんです。 Sleeping inside the baths is also dangerous as well, so definitely avoid doing this. また、湯船ゆぶねの中なかで寝ねるのは危険きけんですので、絶対ぜったいにやめましょう。 [Video] 2:41 - No Sleeping in Onsen 【動画どうが】2:41～　温泉おんせんで寝ねてはいけない As mentioned above, onsen are a shared space for relaxation. 上うえに書かいてあるように、温泉おんせんはリラックスするための共有きょうゆうの場所ばしょです。 It's good manners to keep your voice down when enjoying the onsen. 温泉おんせんを楽たのしむときは、静しずかにくつろぐのがマナーです。 If you're with a friend and want to talk, be sure to talk quietly. 友達ともだちと一緒いっしょにいて話はなしをしたい場合ばあいは、静しずかに話はなすようにしましょう。 Naturally, singing, yelling, etc., is bad manners. もちろん、歌うたったり、大声おおごえを出だしたりするのはマナー違反いはんです。 These manners also apply to saunas in Japan as well. これらのマナーは、日本にほんのサウナでも同おなじです。 [Video] 3:02 - Staying Quiet When Using Onsen 【動画どうが】3:02～　温泉おんせんを利用りようするときは静しずかに After you've finished relaxing in the onsen and are ready to return to the dressing room, it's important to wipe your body off first. 温泉おんせんでくつろいで、脱衣室だついしつに戻もどりたいときは、まず体からだを拭ふきましょう。 This is so that the floors of the dressing room don't get wet. これは脱衣室だついしつの床ゆかが濡ぬれれないようにするためです。 [Video] 3:40 - Wiping Down Before Entering the Dressing Room 【動画どうが】3:40～　体からだを拭ふいてから脱衣室だついしつに戻もどる Bathing in an onsen expends energy and the heat causes you to sweat, reducing the amount of water in the body. 温泉おんせんに入はいると体力たいりょくを使つかって、熱ねつで汗あせをかくため、体内たいないの水分すいぶんが少すくなくなります。 Because of this, it's important to relax for a while after bathing in the onsen, and grab some water or a sports drink to rehydrate. そのため、入浴にゅうよく後ごはしばらくリラックスして、水みずやスポーツドリンクで水分すいぶんをとるのが大事だいじです。 Many onsen in Japan provide yukata that guests can wear after bathing, and a lounge where they can relax. 多おおくの日本にほんの温泉おんせんでは、入浴にゅうよく後ごに着きる浴衣ゆかたや、ゆっくり休やすめる休憩室きゅうけいしつが用意よういされています。 Can You Enter Onsen in Japan With Tattoos? 日本にほんではタトゥーがあっても温泉おんせんに入れる？ One of the most frequently asked questions foreign travelers to Japan have when wanting to visit an onsen is whether or not it's okay to enter onsen with tattoos. 来日らいにちする外国人がいこくじん旅行者りょこうしゃが温泉おんせんに入はいりたいと思おもったとき、よくある質問しつもんの１ひとつに「タトゥーがあっても温泉おんせんに入はいれますか？」という質問しつもんです。 Unfortunately, the answer to this is generally no. 残念ざんねんながら、一般的いっぱんてきにいうと、入はいれません。 The reason for this is tattoos in Japan have long been associated with criminal organizations. その理由りゆうは、日本にほんでは昔からタトゥーは犯罪はんざい組織そしきと関係かんけいがあったからです。 In the past, criminals in Japan were even marked with a tattoo so that they could be easily identified. かつて日本にほんでは、犯罪者はんざいしゃがすぐに分わかるようにタトゥーを入いれていました。 That being said, there are some onsen in Japan where you can enter with tattoos. とはいえ、日本にほんにはタトゥーがあっても入れる温泉おんせんがあります。 Furthermore, there are places that allow you to enter as long as you cover up your tattoos. さらに、タトゥーを隠かくせば入はいれるところもあります。 This can be done with special bandages and sprays sold in Japan. 日本にほんで売うられている専用せんようのバンデージやスプレーで隠かくすことができます。 Unfortunately, some places won't let you enter even if you offer to cover up tattoos. しかし、残念ざんねんなことに、タトゥーを隠かくしても入はいらせてくれない温泉おんせんもあります。 In this case, there's not much you can do, and you're better off just finding a new place. この場合ばあい、どうすることもできないので、違ちがう温泉おんせんを探さがしましょう。 It shouldn't be hard though with how many onsen there are in Japan. ただ、日本にほんにはたくさんの温泉おんせんがありますので、探さがしやすいはずです。 The Different Types of Onsen in Japan 日本にほん温泉おんせんの種類しゅるい Photo：A bulletin board with health benefits written on it at Kinosaki Onsen（写真しゃしん：城崎温泉きのさきおんせん・効能こうのうが書かかれた掲示板けいじばん） Japan's onsen are said to be good for one's health, but there are many different types of onsen in Japan, and they all have slightly different health benefits. 日本にほんの温泉おんせんは健康けんこうに良よいと言いわれていますが、日本にほんには様々さまざまな種類しゅるいの温泉おんせんがあって、それぞれ効能こうのうも少すこし違ちがいます。 Below we'll introduce some of the different types of onsen in Japan. 以下いかに、日本にほんの温泉おんせんの種類しゅるいをいくつかご紹介しょうかいします。 ・Simple Hot Springs ・簡易かんい温泉おんせん Standard, transparent hot springs with a small amount of minerals. ミネラルが少すこし入はいった、お湯ゆが透明とうめいの標準的ひょうじゅんてきな温泉おんせん。 ・Chloride Springs ・塩化物えんかぶつ泉せん Hot springs that contain salt and are good for muscle and joint pain. 塩分えんぶんが高たかい、筋肉痛きんにくつうや関節痛かんせつつうに良よい温泉おんせん。 ・Sulfate Springs ・硫酸塩りゅうさんえん泉せん Hot springs that contain sulfates. The water of these onsen has a bitter taste. 硫酸塩りゅうさんえんが入はいった温泉おんせん。この温泉おんせんのお湯ゆは苦にがい味あじがする。 ・Acidic Springs ・酸性泉さんせいせん Hot springs with high acidity. These springs are good for the skin. 酸性度さんせいどの高たかい温泉おんせん。この温泉おんせんは肌はだに良よいです。 ・Radioactive Springs ・放射能ほうしゃのう泉せん You might be thinking "That sounds dangerous," but radioactive springs are actually shown to have good effects on the body. 「危あぶなさそうだな」と思おもうかもしれませんが、実じつは放射能ほうしゃのう泉せんは体からだに良よい効果こうかがあることが分わかっています。 These springs have a small amount of radon or radium in them and are said to treat gout and rheumatism. ラドンやラジウムが少すこし入はいった温泉おんせんで、痛風つうふうやリウマチに効きくと言いわれています。 Popular Onsen in Japan 日本にほんの人気にんき温泉おんせん There are so many hot springs in Japan that it would be impossible to list them all. 日本にほんには温泉おんせんが数かぞえ切きれないほどたくさんあるので、すべての温泉おんせんを紹介しょうかいすることはできません。 So, here are some of the most popular onsen in Japan. そこで、日本にほんで最もっとも人気にんきのある温泉おんせんをいくつかご紹介しょうかいします。 ・Kusatsu Onsen (Gunma Prefecture) ・草津くさつ温泉おんせん（群馬県ぐんま） A famous hot spring resort located on the east side of Mt. Kusatsu-Shirane, an active volcano. 活火山かっかざんである草津くさつ白根山しらねさんの東側ひがしがわに位置いちする有名ゆうめいな温泉地おんせんち。 The hot springs here are mostly acidic hot springs and are even said to have been used by military commanders during Japan's Warring States Period. ここの温泉おんせんは酸性泉さんせいせんが多おおくて、日本にほんの戦国せんごく時代じだいには武将ぶしょうが利用りようしたと言いわれています。 Video Article 3:02 Kusatsu Onsen Hot Spring, Gunma Prefecture- Beautiful Scenery, Skiing, Hot Springs, and Local Food and Events, All in This Beautiful Winter Wonderland YouTube ・Hakone Onsen (Kanagawa Prefecture) ・箱根はこね温泉おんせん（神奈川県かながわけん） Hakone Onsen refers to hot springs located mainly in the town of Hakone in Kanagawa Prefecture. 箱根はこね温泉おんせんとは、神奈川県かながわけん箱根町はこねまちを中心ちゅうしんに位置いちした温泉おんせんのことです。 It has a long history, dating back 1,300 years. 温泉おんせんの歴史れきしは古ふるくて、1300せんさんびゃく年ねん前まえにさかのぼります。 Video Article 2:59 Hakone Onsen's "Hakone Ginyu" Inn, Is an Exclusive, Luxurious Place to Stay in Kanagawa Prefecture! Enjoy a Wonderful Experience at One of Japan's Premier Hot Springs! YouTube ・Beppu Onsen (Oita Prefecture) ・別府べっぷ温泉おんせん（大分県おおいたけん） Beppu Onsen is a hot spring resort in Oita Prefecture, located near Beppu Station. 別府べっぷ温泉おんせんとは大分県おおいたけんの温泉地おんせんちで、別府べっぷ駅えきの近ちかくにあります。 The resort features many different types of hot springs. 多おおくの種類しゅるいの温泉おんせんがあるのが特徴とくちょうです。 The onsen has been famous for hundreds of years, even appearing on hot spring ranking lists from Japan's Edo Period. 数百年すうひゃくねん前まえから有名ゆうめいな温泉地おんせんちで江戸えど時代じだいの温泉おんせんランキングにも入はいっていました。 Video Article 3:46 Chinoike Jigoku (The Blood Pond of Hell) – A Blood Red Hot Spring at Beppu Hot Springs... YouTube ・Yufuin Onsen (Oita Prefecture) ・湯布院ゆふいん温泉おんせん（大分県おおいたけん） Located in the center of Oita Prefecture, Yufuin Onsen is just 10km from Beppu Onsen, so it's easy to travel between the two of them. 大分県おおいたけんのほぼ中央ちゅうおうに位置いちする湯布院ゆふいん温泉おんせんは、別府べっぷ温泉おんせんからわずか10じゅうキロの距離きょりにあって、別府べっぷ温泉おんせんとの行ゆき来きがしやすいのが特徴とくちょうです。 Video Article 1:06 Experience an Exciting Glamping Trip in Oita, Japan! Yufuin Onsen Glamping Comorebi's Luxury Camping Experience Is Like Staying at a Resort Hotel! YouTube ・Ginzan Onsen (Yamagata Prefecture) ・銀山ぎんざん温泉おんせん（山形県やまがたけん） Ginzan Onsen is a hot spring famous for its beautiful townscape. 銀山ぎんざん温泉おんせんとは美うつくしい街並まちなみで有名ゆうめいな温泉街おんせんがいです。 It's especially breathtaking during winter when snow blankets the town. 特とくに冬ふゆには雪ゆきに覆おおわれて、その美うつくしさは息いきを呑のむほどです。 ・Dogo Onsen (Ehime Prefecture) ・道後どうご温泉おんせん（愛媛県えひめけん） Dogo Onsen is a popular hot spring in Ehime, and is known as one of the oldest hot springs in Japan. 道後どうご温泉おんせんとは、日本にほん最古さいこの温泉おんせんの1ひとつとして知しられる愛媛えひめの有名ゆうめいな温泉おんせんです。 It even appears in Japanese legends 日本にほんの伝説でんせつにも表あらわれます。 Video Article 3:36 Dogo Onsen, the Oldest Hot Spring in Japan, and the Inspiration for Studio Ghibli’s Oscar-Winning Animated Film?! The Hot Spring, Loved by Famous Japanese Novelist Natsume Soseki, Is an Attractive Destination, Filled With History! YouTube The Best Time to Visit Onsen in Japan 日本にほん温泉おんせんのベストシーズン Photo：Winter at Nyuto Onsen's Tsuru no Yu（写真しゃしん：乳頭温泉郷にゅうとうおんせん・冬ふゆの鶴つるの湯温泉ゆおんせん） When it comes to the best season/time of year to visit onsen, this can vary depending on your personal preferences. 温泉おんせんに行いくのに一番いちばんいい季節きせつというと、これは人ひとによって様々さまざまです。 That being said, here are some things to consider for each season. とはいえ、季節きせつごとのポイントをご紹介しょうかいします。 ・Spring ・春はる During spring, the weather is fair, making it easy to relax in onsen. 春はるは、気候きこうもよく温泉おんせんが入はいりやすい季節きせつです。 Depending on where you are, you may even be able to enjoy cherry blossoms while bathing. 場所ばしょによっては桜さくらを見みながら入浴にゅうよくすることもできます。 ・Summer ・夏なつ Summer in Japan is quite hot, so it might seem strange to want to bathe in hot water, but there are some reasons for visiting hot spring during the summer. 日本にほんの夏なつはかなり暑あついので、温泉おんせんでリラックスしたいと思おもうのは不思議ふしぎに思おもえるかもしれませんが、夏なつに温泉おんせんに行いくのにはいくつかの理由りゆうがあります。 One would be that many of Japan's hot springs are located deep in mountainous areas and are difficult to reach during winter. 日本にほんの温泉おんせんは山奥やまおくにあることが多おおく、冬ふゆに行いくのは難むずかしいというのも理由りゆうの1ひとつです。 Summer is the best time to visit any hidden gems you want to go to. 夏なつは、行いきたい穴場あなばに行いくのに一番いちばんいい季節きせつです。 ・Autumn ・秋あき Autumn, similar to spring, has mild weather and is great for enjoying outdoor springs. 秋あきは春はると同様どうよう、気候きこうが穏おだやかで、外そとにある温泉おんせんを楽たのしむのに良よい季節きせつです。 Furthermore, autumn is one of the most beautiful seasons in Japan and there are many places in Japan that are famous for their autumn foliage. さらに、秋あきは日本にほんで美うつくしい季節きせつの1ひとつで、日本にほんには紅葉こうようの名所めいしょがたくさんあります。 Bathing in Japan's relaxing hot springs while enjoying the autumn leaves is a great way to kill two birds with one stone. 日本にほんの温泉おんせんに入はいりながら紅葉こうようも楽たのしめるなんて、一石二鳥いっせきにちょうですね。 ・Winter ・冬ふゆ Winter in Japan can be quite cold, especially northern Japan. 日本にほんのなかでも、特とくに北きた日本にほんの冬ふゆはかなり寒さむいです。 Onsen are a great way to warm up during the harsh winter months. 日本にほんの厳きびしい冬ふゆに体からだを温あたためるには、温泉おんせんは最高さいこうです。 Depending on where you go, you can also enjoy beautiful snowy landscapes around the onsen. 場所ばしょによっては、温泉おんせんの周まわりに美うつくしい雪景色ゆきげしきを楽たのしむこともできます。 How Much Do Onsen in Japan Cost to Use? 日本にほん温泉おんせんの入浴にゅうよく料金りょうきんは？ Japan's onsen are relatively cheap to use. 日本にほんの温泉おんせんの入浴にゅうよく料金りょうきんは割わりと安やすいです。 Most onsen cost only a couple hundred yen (a few bucks). ほとんどの温泉おんせんは数百すうひゃく円えんしかかかりません。 If you're on a budget and looking to save money while still enjoying some of the authentic culture of Japan, onsen are a great experience. 予算よさんが限かぎられていて、お金かねを節約せつやくしながら、日本にほんの本物ほんものの文化ぶんかを楽たのしみたいのであれば、温泉おんせんはとても良よい体験たいけんになります。 If you're visiting a hot spring town in Japan and planning to stay the night to enjoy sightseeing around the area, then you're going to have to book some accommodations as well. 日本にほんの温泉街おんせんがいに行いって、その周辺しゅうへんの観光かんこうを楽たのしむために宿泊しゅくはくするのであれば、ホテルなどの宿泊しゅくはく施設しせつの予約よやくが必要ひつようです。 With that in mind, rather than staying at a hotel, we recommend staying at a ryokan. 宿泊しゅくはく施設しせつはホテルではなくて、旅館りょかんに泊とまるのがおすすめです。 A ryokan is a traditional Japanese inn that serves traditional Japanese-style meals, generally has traditional Japanese rooms (tatami mats, sliding doors, etc.), and allows guests to relax in yukata, traditional Japanese clothing. なぜなら旅館りょかんは、食事しょくじは和食わしょく、部屋へやは和室わしつ（畳たたみ、襖ふすまなど）、浴衣ゆかたでくつろぐことができる日本にほんの伝統的でんせつてきな宿泊しゅくはく施設しせつだからです。 This allows visitors to really experience Japanese culture and for roughly the same price as a hotel. ホテルとほぼ同おなじ料金りょうきんですが、日本にほんの文化ぶんかを体験たいけんすることができます。 Onsen ryokan are traditional Japanese inns with a focus on hot springs, and can be found in many hot spring resorts in Japan. 温泉おんせん旅館りょかんは、温泉おんせんを中心ちゅうしんとした日本にほんの伝統的でんせつてきな旅館りょかんで、日本にほんの多おおくの温泉地おんせんちにあります。 Summary of How to Use Onsen in Japan 日本にほん温泉おんせんの入はいり方かたのまとめ There are many different rules and manners to observe when enjoying onsen in Japan, but even if you make a mistake, as long as you're careful there's nothing to worry about. 日本にほんで温泉おんせんを楽たのしむには、様々さまざまなルールやマナーがありますが、たとえ間違まちがえても、気きを付つければ何なにも心配しんぱいすることはありません。 Whether you're going to a famous hot spring resort or an onsen hidden in the mountains of Japan, you're sure to find some relaxing hot springs, regardless of the season. 日本にほんの有名ゆうめいな温泉地おんせんちでも、山奥やまおくの温泉おんせんでも、季節きせつに関係かんけいなくリラックスできる温泉おんせんがきっと見みつかるはずです。 Just remember, if you have tattoos, it's best to do some research and find which hot springs you can enter to avoid any troubles during your trip. ただ、タトゥーを入いれている人ひとは、旅行りょこう中ちゅうにトラブルが起おきないように、入はいれる温泉おんせんを調しらべておくといいでしょう。 h2 ruby { font-weight: bold; } .mod-article-caption .caption-heading { font-size: 2.4rem !important; } .caption-text { font-size: 2rem !important; }

Video introduction of Hatsumode at “Kitano Tenmangu Shrine” in Kyoto City, Kyoto Prefecture, Japan This video, titled "Kitano Tenmangu Shrine, Kyoto - The Head Shrine of the 12,000 Tenmangu Shrines in Japan, Dedicated to Sugawara No Michizane, the God of Learning [No. 055]' (京都 初詣 北野天満宮 〜 学問の神様菅原道真公をお祀りする全国12000ある天満宮の総本社、楼門に掲げられた巨大絵馬でご開運を！[No.055]), was uploaded by "QUICK GLANCE KYOTO." Kitano Tenmangu Shrine is located in Kamigyo, Kyoto, in Japan's Kansai Region, and is known as the god of learning. Several statues of oxen, which are known to serve as messengers of the god, are located within the shrine precincts. The shrine is also known as one of the most crowded shrines in Kyoto for Hatsumode (the first shrine visit of the New Year). The huge ema (wooden prayer plaque) displayed at the gate is very popular, and some visitors come to the shrine for Hatsumode just to see it. Other highlights of Kitano Tenmangu Shrine include Sankomon Gate, the shrine repository, and the main shrine, which is designated as a National Treasure. Be sure to check out the video of Hatsumode at Kitano Tenmangu Shrine before reading along. Background Information for Kitano Tenmangu Shrine Photo：An ox statue at Kitano Tenmangu Shrine Tenmangu shrines are located throughout Japan and are known as gods of learning to which students pray for success in entrance examinations. The head shrine, Kitano Tenmangu Shrine, was built in the Heian period (794-1185 A.D.) and is dedicated to Sugawara no Michizane. The beautiful main shrine building was donated to the shrine by Toyotomi Hideyori and is designated as a National Treasure. Ishi no Ma, one of the halls at the shrine, and the statues of the fierce gods can be seen during special public viewing periods. The most distinctive feature of Kitano Tenmangu Shrine is the 10 plus statues of oxen that can be seen throughout the shrine. They are believed to be messengers of the god Sugawara no Michizane, who was born on the year of the Ox. It's said that touching the oxen and patting their heads will make you smarter, and petting their bodies will cure illnesses and injuries. Kitano Tenmangu Shrine is also said to bring blessings for the arts and culture and ward off bad luck among other things. At Fudehajime-sai, an event held in the precincts of the shrine, visitors write a kanji on a large sheet of paper with a brush to pray for success in their entrance exams. The shrine also sells shuin stamps bearing plums (the shrine crest), and good luck charms popular among students preparing for entrance exams can be obtained at the shrine office. Also, on the 25th of every month, there's a fair called Tenjin Ichi where shops selling antiques and household goods, as well as food stalls, line the temple grounds, attracting both local Kyoto residents and tourists. Hatsumode at Kitano Tenmangu Shrine – Information on Crowding and Parking! Photo：Kitano Tenmangu Shrine, Kyoto ※Photo taken in 2019 Kitano Tenmangu Shrine is also known as a popular shrine for Hatsumode. On the three days of the Japanese New Year, before the coronavirus pandemic, approximately 500,000 people would visit the shrine, making it the third most visited shrine in Kyoto after Fushimi Inari Grand Shrine and Yasaka Shrine. Therefore, New Year's is expected to be very crowded. During the first three days of the new year, New Year's Day in particular attracts a large number of visitors, so be sure to keep this in mind when visiting. Visiting hours are from New Year's Eve to 9:30 p.m. on New Year's Day, from 5:30 a.m. to 8:30 p.m. on the 2nd, and from 5:30 a.m. to 7:30 p.m. on the 3rd. Please refer to this information if you're planning to visit Kitano Tenmangu Shrine for Hatsumode. There are long lines everywhere in the precincts of the shrine, but if there's one thing we recommend seeing when visiting the shrine, it's the giant ema plaque. The giant ema with the year's zodiac sign written on it hangs at Romon Gate. It's a popular photo spot on New Year's, so be sure to take a picture to commemorate your visit. Parking is available at the shrine, but since it can be quite crowded during Hatsumode and there will be traffic restrictions in the area, it's recommended that visitors use public transportation. Kitano Tenmangu Shrine – Plum Blossoms, Autumn Leaves, and Other Seasonal Attractions! Photo：Autumn leaves at Kitano Tenmangu Shrine, Kyoto Kitano Tenmangu Shrine is also a sightseeing spot where beautiful plum blossoms and autumn leaves can be seen in different seasons. As Sugawara Michizane loved plums, Kitano Tenmangu Shrine is also famous for its plum garden. The Hana no Niwa plum garden on the grounds of the shrine is home to 1,500 plum trees of different varieties and is associated with Sugawara Michizane. Admission is 1,000 yen for adults and 500 yen for children, and tea cakes are available in the garden. The best time to view the plum blossoms is from mid-January to mid-March, so be sure to stop if you're visiting Kyoto in the spring. In the fall, visitors can enjoy a beautiful view of the main shrine, a National Treasure, and its 350 colored maple trees from the maple garden in the Odoi (an earthen fortification built by the famous warlord Toyotomi Hideyoshi). The entrance fee is the same as that for the plum garden, and the beautiful scenery is popular amongst photographers and instagrammers. Kitano Tenmangu Shrine is a shrine full of attractions: Hatsumode, plum blossoms in early spring, fresh greenery in summer, and autumn leaves in fall, and more. You can come to the shrine to pray for academic success as well as to visit it as a sightseeing spot in Kyoto! Summary of Kitano Tenmangu Shrine, Kyoto Kitano Tenmangu Shrine is very crowded during Hatsumode, and visits may take more than two hours. Be sure to take into consideration the time of year and your schedule before visiting the shrine. When visiting Kitano Tenmangu Shrine, we recommend that you stop by the Kitano Tenmangu Shrine teahouse for some tasty Chogoro mochi rice cakes as well. The refined Chogoro mochi, which was served at the Kitano Grand Tea Ceremony held by Toyotomi Hideyoshi, is an elegant Japanese confectionary with a thin rice cake skin and red bean paste. Definitely give it a try. It is expected to be very crowded, but why don't you go to Kitano Tenmangu Shrine at the beginning of this year and have a wonderful year with the benefit of Sugako? ◆Kitano Tenmangu Shrine◆ 【Address】Bakurocho, Kamigyo Ward, Kyoto, 602-8386 【Telephone】075-461-0005 【Parking】Available (For shrine visitors only) ※Parking is prohibited on the 25th of each month due to an event. 【Access】 Public Transportation: A short walk from the Kitano Tenmangu-mae bus stop on routes 50 and 101 of the city bus from JR Kyoto Station. A 5-minute walk from Kitano Hakubai-cho Station on the Keifuku Line. ※For other directions, please see the official website. 【Official Website】Kitano Tenmangu Shrine 【TripAdvisor】Kitano Tenmangu Shrine

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

Video introduction of "Shirakawa-go" thatched-workers in Ono-gun, Gifu Prefecture In this article we introduce the following video: "Door to Tomorrow by At Home Series '#019 Thatcher Eizaku Tanaka'" (明日への扉 by アットホームシリーズ「#019 茅葺職人 田中 栄作」). The video introduces 26 year-old thatcher Eizaku Tanaka from 2:55. The young thatcher was born and raised in Shirakawa-go, Gifu, in the Tokai region (東海地方) of Japan. Shirakawa-go, a registered World Heritage Site, is situated in an area that experiences heavy snowfall each year. The characteristic Gassho-zukuri-style houses are built to withstand the harsh weather conditions, however, constructing the thatched roofing is not only hard physically but also requires a vast amount of knowledge and skill. More About Shirakawa-go, a World Heritage Site in Gifu Prefecture Photo：Shirakawa-go in winter, Gifu Prefecture The unspoiled landscape of the Japanese villages Shirakawa-go in Gifu prefecture and Gokayama (五箇山) in Toyama prefecture (富山県, toyamaken) is hard to find anywhere else in Japan. Both of these historic villages were registered as UNESCO World Heritage Sites in 1995. As mentioned previously, Shirakawa-go is located in Gifu prefecture. This area receives some of the heaviest snowfall in Japan and around 100 gassho-zukuri houses of varying sizes have been built in this remote area of the country. You can see the snow-covered gassho-zukuri houses from 1:47 in the video. Gasshozukuri Minkaen (合掌造り民家園), an open-air museum located in Ogimachi (荻町) lies along the Sho river (庄川, shougawa) and was registered as an Important Cultural Asset in 1976. Shirakawa-go used to be rarely visited by outsiders, especially during the winter months, however, as the beauty of the landscape became well known through the media and internet, the number of tourists dramatically increased and Shirakawa-go is now one of the top sightseeing spots in Japan. The village is often lit up at night and the snow-covered gassho-zukuri houses look like something out of a fairytale. More About the Thatchers of Shirakawa-go Photo：A thatched roof The sericulture (silk farming) industry was very important to the Shirakawa-go region. You can see the attics where the silk worms were kept from 1:48 in the video. The typical shape of the thatched roofs is called "Kirizuma" (切妻) and the main materials used to make the roofs are Chinese silver grass (ススキ, Miscanthus sinensis) and Kariyasu (刈安, Miscanthus tinctorius), both of which are water-resistant and breathable. The roofs are generally replaced every 30-40 years, with small repairs being made along the way. The layout of the houses within the village and even the angle of the roofs have all been carefully designed taking into consideration the fact that they must be able to withstand the strong winds and heavy snowfall of that region. The smoke which rises from the sunken fireplace (irori, 囲炉裏) helps to prevent pests and degradation of the roof and improves the overall durability. The thatchers use techniques like these to ensure the roofs are strong enough to withstand the rain and wind. Reroofing the Houses of Shirakawa-go Photo：Re-thatching by a thatching craftsman Gassho-zukuri houses have been built in Japan since the Edo period (1603 AD-1868 AD). Built without the use of nails, the houses are split into two areas: the first floor living space and the attic space used for silk-farming. Windows can be built into the roof and the spacious design of the Kirizumazukuri (切妻造り) roofs create the ideal conditions for silk farming during the harsh winter months. The roofs are supported by pillars that are cut at a particular angle, lodged in place, and then tied securely. No nails are used to hold the pillars in place. In this way, the frame of the roof is strong yet flexible enough to withstand earthquakes. The above are all great examples of the high level of skill involved in Japanese engineering and construction. The design and functionality of the thatched roofing is one of the highlights of the houses in Shirakawa-go. The roofs are highly durable, however, being made from natural materials, they do require reroofing every 30-40 years. Reed screens called "sudare" are first laid down as a base, after which bundles of miscanthus reed, cut to around 80cm in length, are piled on making sure to leave no gaps. The most difficult part of the reroofing process is perfecting the edge of the roof, as this affects not only the final look of the roof but also the durability. Reroofing is a huge project which with the combined effort of the local thatchers takes on average 2 months to complete and costs approximately 20 million yen. You can take a look at the reroofing process from 6:52 in the video. Summary of the Thatchers of Shirakawa-go, a World Heritage Site in Gifu Prefecture Photo：Thatched roofs in Shirakawa-go, Gifu Prefecture Shirakawa-go, a village nestled amongst the mountains of Gifu prefecture, is a popular sightseeing destination which attracts a large number of tourists year after year. Other popular tourist spots and events in the Shirakawa-go area include Hirase Onsen (平瀬温泉, hiraseonsen), the autumn foliage of the area, Myozenji Temple (明善寺) where you can collect Goshuin (御朱印) and see the Doboroku Festival (どぼろく祭, doborokumatsuri) as well as the lion dance called "Shishimai" (獅子舞) in Japanese. You can also take a look at Shirakawa-go online on the Shirakawa village office website, which incldues live camera footage taken from the observation deck. 【Official Website】Shirakawa-go Tourism Association https://shirakawa-go.gr.jp/ 【Tripadvisor】Shirakawa-go Gasshozukuri Village https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g1119912-d1407426-Reviews-The_Historic_Villages_of_Shirakawa_go_Gassho_Style_Houses-Shirakawa_mura_Ono_gun.html

Video introduction of the Mifune Festival at Hotaka Shrine in Azumino City, Nagano Prefecture Source :YouTube screenshot This video, titled "Hotaka Shrine, Ofune Matsuri" (穂高神社御船祭り), was uploaded by "Azumino TV" (あづみ野テレビ). Ofune Matsuri (festival) is held at Hotaka Shrine in Azumino, Nagano, in Japan's Koshin'etsu Region. The video shows how the entire community, from children to adults, work together during Ofune Matsuri. The massive floats crashing into one another is quite the contrast to the cute shrine maidens dancing at the beginning of the video! Be sure to check out the video to see what the festival is like before reading along! Ofune Matsuri, a Historic Festival Dating Back 1,500 Years Source :YouTube screenshot Ofune Matsuri, designated as an Intangible Folk Cultural Property of Nagano Prefecture, is a festival held annually from September 26 to September 27 at Hotaka Shrine in Azumino, Nagano. The origin of Ofune Matsuri dates back to the 6th century A.D. The festival celebrates the history of the migration and settlement of the Azumi people, the ancestors of both the seafaring tribes of Kyushu and the people living in present-day Azumino City. It's also said to be an event to mourn the death of Azumi no Hirafu, who is said to have died as a general in the Battle of Baekgang. A total of five floats are used during the festival, including six-meter-tall adult boats and slightly smaller children's boats. The floats are shaped like ships in reference to the migration of the seafaring people, and the floats are decorated with handmade Hotaka dolls depicting various aspects of history. [Video] 0:01 - Hotaka Dolls The floats carrying the Hotaka dolls, which have been passed down by the people of Azumino, are pulled through each town and then converge at Hotaka Shrine. The crowd goes wild as the two "adult" floats, clash violently with each other to the accompaniment of music performed by children from the community, making this one of the highlights of Ofune Matsuri. [Video] 0:37 - A Clash of Floats to the Sound of Music Deities and Other Information For Hotaka Shrine Photo：Hotaka Shrine, Azumino, Nagano The deities enshrined at Hotaka Shrine are Watatsumi no Mikoto, the god of the sea; Hotakami no Mikoto, the ancestor of the Azumi people and son of Watatsumi no Mikoto; and Ninigi no Mikoto, the grandson of Amaterasu no Mikoto. The shrine is dedicated to several dignified deities and is believed to bring good fortune, business prosperity, traffic safety, success in academic studies, and marital bliss, and many good luck charms can be purchased at the shrine. Also, on the grounds of Hotaka Shrine is the largest stainless steel Dosojin (guardian deity of travelers) of health and longevity in Japan, which was constructed in 2013 to commemorate Nagano Prefecture's recognition as the prefecture with the longest life expectancy in Japan and is said to bring blessings of health and longevity and good luck in marriage. Shuin stamps are available at the main shrine of Hotaka Shrine from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. daily. In addition, limited edition shuin stamps are distributed during New Year holidays, the Bokusho Festival, and the annual festival, so if you're collector, consider visiting the shrine during these times. If you visit the Mine-miya (shrine located on a peak), you can also receive a special shuin stamp. Tsukimairi is an occasion to express gratitude for a successful month and pray for blessings in the new month. The tsukimairi shuin stamp with beautiful seasonal designs of Hotaka Shrine changes its design each month. Seeing the different stamp designs will make you want to visit to collect them all! Explore Hotaka Shrine at Myojin Pond – A Power Spot Surrounded by Nature Photo：The inner shrine of Hotaka Shrine, Azumino, Nagano The inner shrine of Hotaka Shrine is located at the foot of Mt. Myojin, an hour's walk from Kappa Bridge (Kappabashi Bridge) at Kamikochi. An inner shrine, "okumiya" in Japanese, is a shrine located at the top or middle of a mountain when a particular shrine has several smaller shrines. Myojin Pond near the shrine is said to be a sacred place where prayers for rain have been held since ancient times. On October 8 each year, a festival is held to pray for the safety of hikers and to express gratitude to the mountains by taking two boats around Myojin Pond. Myojin Pond does not freeze over in the winter due to springs and underground water. It is also called "Kagami-ike" (mirror pond) because of this, and its calm surface reflects the natural beauty of the area throughout the year. There is a 300 yen entrance fee to visit Myojin Pond. A Bamboo Lantern Festival, Wind Chime Festival, and Other Events at Hotaka Shrine Photo：The bamboo lantern festival at Hotaka Shrine, Azumino, Nagano In addition to Ofune Matsuri, Hotaka Shrine also hosts a variety of other seasonal events. Every year on a weekend in December, a lantern festival called "Kamiakari" is held for several weeks at night. Approximately 10,000 bamboo lanterns are lined up, creating a mysterious atmosphere in the shrine grounds. If you come with a candle lighter (utility lighter) by the designated time, you may be able to participate in the lighting ceremony. Azumino, Nagano is known as a summer resort in Japan. Every year in July and August, a wind chime festival is held at Hotaka Shrine. Wind chimes of various shapes and colors are decorated with strips of paper with wishes attached to them, and the cool sounds of the wind chimes are played under the eaves of the Kagura Hall (Shinto music and dancing hall) in front of the main shrine building. This Origin of Festivals in Japan Photo：People carrying a portable shrine at a festival The Japanese word "matsuri" (祭り), meaning "festival," comes from the word "matsuru" (祀る), which means "to give thanks to the gods." Festivals in Japan can be traced back to Japanese creation myths and Shinto gods, such as Amaterasu, the sun goddess. During the Heian Period (794-1185 AD), portable shrines became common in festivals, which allowed the gods to leave from the shrines and go into town where the people were. Today, there are many festivals throughout the year in Japan, including summer festivals full of fireworks and more. Things to Do Near Hotaka Shrine Photo：Matsumoto Castle, Matsumoto, Nagano Hotaka Shrine is located just 30 minutes north of Matsumoto by train. There are a number of things to see and do in Matsumoto, so below we'll list a few. Matsumoto Castle Matsumoto Castle is one of the 12 castles in Japan with an original castle keep. It's one of the most beautiful castles in Japan and has a striking appearance with black walls and roof tiles and is surrounded by a moat filled with koi. The inside of the castle is filled with guns and armor that would have been used by samurai during battles, and visitors can enjoy climbing the steep staircases, while looking out the loopholes for guns and arrows. Upon reaching the top of the castle, you can enjoy a panoramic view of the city of Matsumoto. Hours: 8:30 am - 5:00 pm (last entry 4:30 pm) Closed: Year-end holidays (December 29-31) Admission Fee: Adults: 700 yen, elementary and junior high school students: 300 yen ※Discounts are available for groups of 20 or more. Japan Ukiyo-e Museum The Japan Ukiyo-e Museum in Matsumoto was established to collect, manage, and study ukiyo-e (Japanese woodblock prints). If you're interested in Japanese art, the museum has a fine collection of pieces to explore. Hours: 10:00 am - 5:00 pm Closed: Mondays and year-end/New Years holidays ※If Monday is a holiday, the museum will be closed the following Tuesday Admission Fee: Adults: 1,000 yen, junior high/high school/university students: 500 yen, elementary school students and younger: free Kamikochi Kamikochi is a highland valley in Chubu Sangaku National Park that is home to some of the most breathtaking scenery in Japan. The Kamikochi area is surrounded by mountains and through it runs beautiful streams. There's also an abundance of wildlife in the lush forests in the area, and visitors can even see monkeys near the famous Kappa Bridge. The area is great for enjoying some light hiking and fresh air. To get to Kamikochi, it's recommended that you reserve a bus in advance, as it can often be crowded. Summary of Festivals at Hotaka Shrine Photo：Myojin Pond at the inner shrine of Hotaka Shrine, Azumino, Nagano The traditional culture inherited by the people of Azumino has a history and background that's so old that it's hard to imagine that it comes from Nagano Prefecture, which does not face the sea. In the video you can see the floats decorated with Hotaka dolls crashing into one another! if you decide to visit the festival, don't forget to take photos! Hotaka Shrine and Myojin Pond are easily accessible as well, so be sure to stop by when you come to see Ofune Matsuri, or visit the area on a trip. 【Official Website】Hotaka Shrine 【TripAdvisor】

PR Video of the Traditional Japanese Art, Hitofude-ryuu This video called “ 京都一筆龍【春夏秋冬】- Hitofude-ryu 【Four seasons】” produced by "Kyoto Hitofude-ryuu Orindo" promotes the traditional art Hitofude-ryu, painted with a single stroke. The ability of these artists to create such breathtaking works of art in such a short amount of time is absolutely amazing. Hitofude-ryuu is a very attractive and graceful Japanese art. This video features how the breathtaking Japanese art is painted. Enjoy the techniques of hitofude-ryuu artists. What Is Hitofude-ryuu? Source :YouTube screenshot Japan's traditional art form, Hitofude-ryuu, is a lucky charm used to connect people and bring success in business. Hitofude- ryu has a long history. It has been used as a lucky charm or to expel evil spirits during the Edo Period. There was also another version called Hitofude-hebi that used snakes. A ryu (dragon) was thought to be sacred and enshrined at temples as deities of agriculture because the shape of Japanese islands resembled a dragon. There are two types of hitofude-ryuu in Orindo in Kyoto. The "Ascending dragon" and the "Descending dragon" are drawn to pray for success and protective power, respectively. “Nyoi-hoju” is one dragon that is said fulfill people's wishes and bring them good luck. The painters of hitofude-ryuu all over Japan are called "hitofude-ryuu eshi" (hitofude-ryuu artists). Keisuke Teshima, the painter in the video, is the most renowned and respected hitofude-ryuu artist. You can see his work in this video at 0:05. Don’t miss his amazing skills! The popularity of hitofude-ryuu has increased overseas thanks to the video posted by Keisuke Teshima. His performance in America in 2014 was highly regarded. You should definitely see the video that shows how Teshima draws a hitofude-ryuu in his atelier. How to Draw Hitofude-ryuu Source :YouTube screenshot As you can see from the video (0:05, 2:02, 3:39 and 4:44) , the body of a ryu is painted with the single stroke of a thick brush. The details such as a head or "Nyoi-hoju" are drawn with a thin brush ( 4:38). First, the body of the dragon is drawn in a single stroke using a thick brush starting from the head. Today, various colors such as red, blue, gold, and white are used to draw the dragons. After a dragon is drawn, a painter finishes a background using special techniques such as powders. The colorful dragons on black backgrounds seem to come alive. Where to Buy Hitofude-ryuu Source :Kyoto hitofude-ryuu official website There are various types of hitofude-ryuu, such as Kyoto hitofude-ryuu, Koshu-ya hitofude-ryuu, and Hitofude-ryuu Takase in Nikko. Omamori-hidofude-ryu and Chinese hitofude-ryuu are also popular.　 Hitofude-ryuu can be purchased on the official web-site or on online shopping sites, such as Rakuten or Amazon. For full orders, be sure to check out the international section of Kyoto Hitofude-ryuu's website. Orindo also offers live sales of Kyoto Hitofude-ryuu, which are painted on the spot. If you hang a hitofude-ryuu artist's painting in your room, you'll have a nice change of atmosphere. Hitofude-ryuu are well known as lucky charms and makes great presents that anyone would be happy to receive. Summary of Hitofude-ryuu This video called “ 京都一筆龍【春夏秋冬】- Hitohuderyu 【Four seasons】” produced by “Kyoto Hitofude-ryuu Orindo” features how to draw a traditional Japanese hitofude-ryuu. If you haven't watched it yet, don't miss out on this amazing painting process. Enjoy the traditional Japanese art- Hitofude-ryuu! 【Official web-site】Hitofude-ryuu | Kisuke Tejima, Hisofude ryu artist https://www.onestrokedragon.com/

The Long History of the Japanese Kimono This video, titled "Kimono inspired by the ‘street’, Jotaro Saito | V&A" was created by "Victoria and Albert Museum." The kimono is an important part of Japanese culture. The knowledge and techniques required to create beautiful kimono have been passed down for centuries. Have you ever heard of Jotaro Saito? The video will introduce the kimono designer, whose work is famous both inside and outside of Japan. In the article, we'll provide supplementary information about Jotaro Saito. If you're interested in traditional Japanese culture, we highly recommend checking out the video! Introducing Jotaro Saito Source :YouTube screenshot In this video, Jotaro Saito talks about how his kimonos are made. There are English subtitles available for those who don't speak Japanese. Jotaro Saito was born in Kyoto in 1961. His family owns a well-established dyeing store that has been in business for over 80 years. He was brought up in an environment surrounded by kimono. In the interview, Jotaro Saito talks about how his kimono are designed to bring out a woman's sexiness. He also explains that "street" is the main source of inspiration for his designs from 0:46 in the video. From 2:56 in the video, Jotaro Saito touches on the manufacturing process and areas of specialization, such as embroidery, that make up the design of his kimonos. You can also take a look at how the designs are hand-drawn onto the kimono in the video. It's a very informative video for anyone wanting to learn more about the kimono-making process and how kimono patterns are created. More About the Famous Kimono Designer Jotaro Saito Source :YouTube screenshot Jotaro Saito is a kimono designer who was born in Kyoto prefecture. His grandfather, Saizaburo Saito (斉藤才三郎) was a dye artist and his father, Sansai Saito (斉藤三才), a kimono designer. At the young age of 27, Jotaro debuted as a kimono designer and began creating modern kimono to fit the lives of people today. His kimono designs are based on the Yuzen dyeing method (友禅) which he learned from his father. This method of dyeing is combined with special weaving techniques to create truly unique kimono designs. Jotaro Saito is also famous for his interior design work in buildings such as the Ritz-Carlton Kyoto (ザ・リッツ・カールトン京都) and the Grand Prince Hotel Shin Takanawa (グランドプリンスホテル新高輪). He also runs his own café called JOTARO SAITO in Ginza (銀座). Make sure to stop by during your trip to Japan and have a look at some of the Jotaro Saito goods for sale! Jotaro Saito's work is being recognized worldwide and his kimonos have been featured in Japan Fashion Week in Tokyo and he has even had the opportunity to create outfits for Lady Gaga. Learn More About Japanese Culture! Source :YouTube screenshot Jotaro Saito is a world-renown kimono designer. For those interested in traditional Japanese clothing, such as kimono, furisode and yukata, we highly recommend taking a look at some of Jotaro Saito's beautiful kimono in the video!

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

Wakakusa Yamayaki: Video Introduction This video, titled "'Yamayaki' Mountain Burning and Fireworks at a Traditional Winter Event on Mt. Wakakusa, Nara" (冬の風物詩・奈良の伝統行事『若草山焼き』：『Yamayaki』Mountain Burning and Fireworks at Mt.Wakakusa in Nara), was uploaded by "Nara Tourism Concierge JUN" (奈良観光コンシェルジュ JUN). Wakakusa Yamayaki is a traditional winter event held on Mt. Wakakusa in Nara city, Nara prefecture, as a requiem for the souls of the deceased that rest in Uguisuzuka Kofun (Uguisuzuka Tumulus), a keyhole-shaped burial mound located on the summit of Mt. Wakakusa. Today, the three major temples and shrines in Nara, Kasuga Taisha Shrine, Kofukuji Temple, and Todaiji Temple, unite to hold this event to repose the souls of our ancestors, to pray for protection of the entire Nara area from fire, and to wish for the peace of people all over the world. Wakakusa Yamayaki takes place on the fourth Saturday of January every year, and many tourists come to Nara to watch to see the both the event and the fireworks show. Amidst the solemn atmosphere, the night sky of the ancient capital of Nara is decorated with fireworks and roaring flames, and the sight of the mountains rising up in the darkness is truly divine. Be sure to check out the amazing footage in the video before reading along. 　[Video] 0:53 - Wakakusa Yamayaki 　[Video] 1:50 - Wakakusa Yamayaki 　[Video] 2:55 - Wakakusa Yamayaki Mt. Wakakusa Highlights and Characteristics Photo：A deer on Mt. Wakakusa, Nara Prefecture Mt. Wakakusa is a famous tourist spot and a symbol of Nara. It is a small, gently sloping mountain 342 meters above sea level with an expanse of grass called "Noshiba." The mountain is also referred to as "Uguisuyama" due to the presence of the large keyhole-shaped tumulus Uguisuzuka Kofun, and "Mikasayama" (三笠山, lit. "Mountain of three hats") because it looks like three kasa (straw hats) stacked on top of each other. The mountain is also home to many deer. The summit provides a panoramic view of Nara Park and the city of Nara, and the night view of Nara from the top of the mountain has been recognized as one of the Top 3 Night Views of New Japan because of its beauty. When the mountain is open to the public, visitors can enjoy a 30-minute climb to the summit. The mountain is home to cherry blossoms, autumn leaves, and mountain burnings, offering beautiful views in every season. Wakakusa Yamayaki, a fire festival that signals a visit from spring, is popular among Nara residents and tourists alike as a wintertime tradition in Nara.It is held on the fourth Saturday of January each year, with the 2024 event scheduled for January 27. The History and Significance of Wakakusa Yamayaki Photo：Uguisuzuka Kofun, Mt. Wakakusa Wakakusa Yamayaki originated as a festival to appease the spirits buried in Uguisuzuka Kofun at the top of Mt. Wakakusa. People in the past feared that ghosts buried in Uguisuzuka Kofun would appear, so they decided to burn the mountain to prevent ghosts from appearing. From there, superstition spread that bad things would happen if Mt. Wakakusa was not burned, and there have been many incidents of people passing by the mountain setting it on fire without permission. In December 1738, the Nara Magistrate's Office issued an ordinance banning arson on Mt. Wakakusa, but even still it continued, and nearby temples and shrines, including Todaiji Temple, a famous World Heritage site, were in danger of catching fire. As a result, toward the end of the Edo period (approx. 1853 to 1868 A.D.), Todaiji Temple, Kofukuji Temple, and the Nara Magistrate's Office, all of which are located near Mt. Wakakusa, began to cooperate in the burning of the mountain. Today, the Shinto and Buddhist traditions of Kasuga Taisha Shrine, Kofukuji Temple, and Todaiji Temple work together to conduct this traditional event, which is meant to repose and comfort the souls of the dead, prevent fires throughout Nara, and pray for the peace of people around the world. Where to See Wakakusa Yamayaki and Fireworks Photo：Wakakusa Yamayaki, Nara Prefecture One of the reasons why Wakakusa Yamayaki is so popular is that visitors can enjoy fireworks in winter. During Wakakusa Yamayaki, a large fireworks display is held with beautiful midwinter night sky. Once the fireworks start, the mountain is ignited simultaneously. Among the fireworks, there's Nara Prefecture's specialty "shakudama." This massive firework, with a one-foot diameter, measures 320 meters in diameter when it explodes, making it one of the most powerful fireworks in Nara Prefecture and heightening the anticipation for the Wakakusa Yamayaki fireworks display. 　[Video] 0:25 -Fireworks 　[Video] 1:22 - Fireworks 　[Video] 2:18 - Fireworks 　[Video] 3:01 - Fireworks Here, we'll introduce viewing spots where you can enjoy both the fireworks and the Wakakusa Yamayaki mountain burning. ●Daibutsuden Intersection (Ukigumo Enchi) At the Daibutsuden Intersection in front of Ukigumo Enchi (Ukigumo Park, 浮雲園地) and by the Daibutsuden Kasuga Taisha-mae Bus Information Center (大仏殿　春日大社前バス案内所, Daibutsuden Kasuga Taisha-mae Basu Annaijo), visitors can enjoy a nice view of Wakakusa Yamayaki. There's a bus stop and a parking lot as well, making this a popular spot for viewing the event. ●Kasugano Enchi Kasugano Enchi (Kasugano Park, 春日野園地) is a grassy open space located near the Daibutsuden Intersection. It's a spacious location where visitors can enjoy the fireworks and Wakakusa Yamayaki with an outstanding view. For details on traffic regulations, etc., please check the official website for the latest information before you go. Other viewing spots are as follows: ●Sarusawa Pond Sarusawa Pond (猿沢池, Sarusawa-ike) is a good spot to enjoy fireworks under the five-story pagoda of Kofukuji Temple. Although you have to climb up the hill to the five-story pagoda of Kofukuji to see the fireworks, you can take pictures of the five-story pagoda illuminated by the fireworks and the flames from Wakakusa Yamayaki. ●Rooftop of Nara Prefectural Office The rooftop of the Nara Prefectural Office Building (奈良県庁屋上, Nara Kencho Okujo) is open to the public on the day of Wakakusa Yamayaki. There is a lottery system in place to select viewers, so you need to apply in advance, but if you win, you can enjoy a relaxing view from the rooftop of the Nara Prefectural Office Building. ●Heijo Palace At Heijo Palace, visitors can enjoy a fantastic collaboration of Suzakumon Gate, fireworks, and the burning mountainside. The romantic view from here is recommended for dates. Wakakusa Yamayaki will be streamed live on YouTube, so if you're unable to make the event, consider watching it from the comfort of your own home! Summary of Wakakusa Yamayaki Photo：Wakakusa Yamayaki, Nara Prefecture The sight of the flames spreading over Mt. Wakakusa, a symbol of the ancient capital of Nara, is unforgettable. The night sky becomes colored by the flames from Wakakusa Yamayaki and the fireworks that are set off just before the event, and you'll be able to enjoy the divine sight of the mountain emerging in the darkness. Come to Nara this winter and experience a visit from spring with a trip to Wakakusa Yamayaki. ◆Mt. Wakakusa◆ 【Address】469 Zoshi-cho, Nara City, Nara Prefecture 【Mountain Opening Period】The Third Saturday in March - Second Sunday in December 【Hours】9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. (Excluding temporary openings of the mountain) 【Admission Fee】Adults (Junior high school, high school, and college students) ¥150, Elementary school students ¥80 【Access】A 12-minute walk from the Daibutsuden Kasuga Taisha-mae bus stop by city loop bus from JR Nara Station or Kintetsu Nara Station. Car: Nara Okuyama Driveway's "Shin-Wakakusa Mountain Course" (新若草山コース, Shin-Wakakusa Yama Kosu) 【TripAdvisor】Mt. Wakakusa

Ise Jingu Shrine, Ise City, Mie Prefecture, Japan Video Introduction This video, titled "【伊勢神宮】 SOUL of JAPAN　ISE-JINGU" was uploaded by "ISE-JINGU Official Channel" (伊勢神宮 公式チャンネル (ISE-JINGU)). It introduces Ise Jingu Shrine in Ise, Mie, in Japan's Tokai region. Ise Jingu Shrine is one of Japan's major tourist destinations and has ancient roots. Be sure to follow along with the video as you read on! About Ise Jingu Shrine - A Popular Tourist Destination in Mie Prefecture Photo：Mie Prefecture, Ise Jingu Shrine・Toyouke Daijingu In 2016, the 42nd G7 Summit was held in Shima, Mie. Ise Jingu Shrine in Ise, Mie is a highly popular tourist destination not only for Japanese tourist, but also for tourists from abroad. It is called "Oise-san" or "Dai-jingu-san" and officially called "Jingu." There are 125 shrines, including Inner Shrine where Amaterasu Omikami is enshrined as the ancestral deity of the Imperial family, and the Outer Shrine where Toyouke no Omikami is enshrined as the god of food, clothing, shelter, and industry, and they are collectively referred to as "Jingu." The video introduces attractive spots at Ise Jingu Shrine for around 5 minutes. "Toyouke Daijingu" is shown from 0:45, "Shikinen Sengu," where a lot of historical materials are displayed, is shown from 1:24 and the inner shrine is shown from 1:54. The murmur of the Isuzu River (五十鈴川) at the entrance of Ise Jingu and the spiritual atmosphere is very soothing. The History of Ise Jingu Shrine Photo：Mie Prefecture, Ise Jingu shrine approach The inner shrine has a history of about 2,000 years and outer shrine about 1500 years. Originally, Amaterasu Omikami was enshrined in Nara, but was moved around the country in search of a more suitable location and finally settled in Ise, Mie. Because of its long history, historical figures such as Taira no Kiyomori, Ashikaga Yoshimitsu, and Oda Nobunaga have also visited the temple. Worshipping From the Outer Shrine To the Inner Shrine Photo：Mie Prefecture, Ise Jingu outer shrine・Tsukiyomi-no-miya entrance When you pray at Ise Jingu Shrine, you have to worship from the outer shrine and then the inner shrine. This is because Toyouke no Omikami, the deity of the outer shrine, is the god of food for Amaterasu no Mikami, the deity of the inner shrine, and it was customary to offer food to her before visiting the inner shrine, and it is still customary to visit the shrines in that order. Enjoy Tourist Sites Around Ise Jingu! Photo：Mie Prefecture, Shiroko Station・Suzuka City Billboard There are many tourist sites in the city, such as Suzuka Circuit, Nagashima Spa Land and Shima Spain Village (志摩スペイン村). Because of this, the number of tourists continued to break a records for the third year in a row and in 2018, at a total of 42.6 million tourists. Out of 42.6 million people, Ise Jingu was visited by more than 8 million tourists, solidifying Ise Jingu as a major tourist destination in Mie Prefecture. Summary of Ise Jingu Shrine Photo：Ise Jingu Shrine, Mie Prefecture The video introduces Ise Jingu Shrine, a tourist destination in Mie Prefecture. Ise Jingu Shrine is a sightseeing spot with a very spiritual and solemn atmosphere. You can feel the solemnity just by watching the video. Be sure to visit Ise Jingu Shrine when you travel to Mie Prefecture! ◆Ise Jingu Shrine｜General Information◆ 【Address】1 Ujitachi, Ise, Mie 516-0023 【Access】Access to the outer shrine is a 5-minute walk from Iseshi Station. The inner shrine is about a 30-minute walk from Isuzugawa Station 【Admission Fee】Free 【Hours】5am to 6pm 【Closures】No holidays 【Parking】Available 【Telephone】0596-24-1111 【Official Website】Ise Jingu Shrine https://www.isejingu.or.jp/ 【Tripadvisor】Ise Jingu Shrine https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g303159-d555336-Reviews-Ise_Jingu-Ise_Mie_Prefecture_Tokai_Chubu.html

The Traditional Carp Streamers of Kazo, Saitama The video "Kazo Carp Streamers [Saitama Prefectural Government Official Sightseeing Video]"（加須の手がき鯉のぼり【埼玉県公式観光動画】）” was created by “ChokotabiSaitama,” and it introduces viewers to the traditional hand-painted carp streamers of Kazo, Saitama, in Japan's Kanto region. May 5th is Children's Day in Japan. People put up carp streamers to exorcise bad spirits and as a way to respect children's personalities and to celebrate their happiness. Kazo is known as the No. 1 producer of the Japanese traditional carp streamers. It also creates the dynamic hand-painted carp streamer. Carp streamers have become a Kazo specialty that every Kazo citizen is proud of. This video will show you how these hand-painted carp streamers are made! You can also visit the factory and have a factory tour. The History of Kazo's Hand-Painted Carp Streamers Kazo carp streamers were originally created in the early Meiji period (1868-1912) as a side job for craftsmen who usually made lanterns and umbrellas. This traditional high quality handmade carp streamer gradually gained popularity and Kazo became the number 1 carp streamer town. Masaru Hashimoto, a traditional carp streamer craftsman from the long-established carp streamer studio, Hashimoto Yakichi Shop in Kazo City, has been producing carp streamers for a long time. Unfortunately, his store closed down in 2016 after 109 years of business. Kazo Carp Streamers: How They're Made Source :YouTube screenshot 1. Cutting and sewing (0:32) In order to make these hand-painted carp streamers, you start by cutting the fabric into a carp shape and sewing it together. 2. Memawashi (1:07) Draw eyes by using a special compass to draw circles. 3. Sujigaki (1:22) Draw scales one by one using lightly colored ink. 4. Usuzumi (1:30) Add color to the scales. Adding colors is the part that requires the most focus. 5 Kinbiki (1:49) Add the finishing touches with a specialized brush. As you can see in the video, the technique used to finish the painting process is very precise. The masculine expression of the carp and intricate scales are drawn with the precise technique of the craftsman. Gigantic Kazo Carp Streamers As Kazo is known as the No. 1 carp streamer producer in Japan, they also make the world biggest carp streamer. The jumbo carp streamer is 100 meters long! The jumbo carp streamer, which was made by Kazo citizens, appears at the Tone river riverbed every May, at the Kazo City Heiwa Festival (Jumbo Carp Streamer swim). Check out the event to see the jumbo carp stream swimming dynamically in the sky. You can also see the carp streamers made with precise hand-painting techniques. The main venue of the event is at Tonegawa Riverbed Park. 400 parking spaces are available, however, due to the popularity of the event, it will likely be pretty packed. Even though these carp streamers are not the biggest carp streamers in Japan, you can see the carp streamers swimming elegantly under the blue sky at 2:23. These elaborate carp streamers are made through a variety of manufacturing processes, and the video shows the traditional craftsmanship that has been handed down in Japan for centuries. Kazo Carp Streamer Summary Photo：Kazo carp streamers Kazo's hand-painted carp streamers are a very artistic and beautiful creation. Every carp streamer is unique because they are all individually hand made. You can see the traditional Japanese carp streamers every May in Japan. Please come see the carp streamers or try to put one up in your house on Children's Day!

四国三大祭として知られる愛媛の新居浜太鼓祭り紹介 こちらの動画は「ANA Global Channel」が公開した「NIIHAMA TAIKO MATSURI - IS JAPAN COOL? MATSURI - 祭 （新居浜太鼓祭り／愛媛）」です。 愛媛県新居浜市で開催される新居浜太鼓祭りを紹介します。 日本三大喧嘩祭りとして知られる新居浜太鼓祭りとは？ 愛媛県新居浜市の新居浜太鼓祭りは、秋の豊作を祝った神事です。 豪華絢爛で迫力のある日本の祭りで、県内外からたくさんの観光客が訪れます。 特徴的なのは、なんといっても巨大な神輿でしょう。 太鼓台と呼ばれる神輿を山車（だし）に積み、総勢150人余りの男性によって担がれます。 山車の長さは12メートルもあり、重さも3トンとかなり重い太鼓台を持ち上げる姿は圧巻の光景。 太鼓台の飾りも絢爛豪華で、金糸で刺繍された飾り幕など美しい神輿です。 2019年には、東京ドームで新居浜太鼓祭りが行われ、注目されました。 日本三大喧嘩祭りとして知られる新居浜太鼓祭りの歴史 愛媛の新居浜太鼓祭りの起源は、はっきりとわかっていません。 地域の伝承によると、太鼓台は秋の豊作を感謝して神さまに奉納しており、その起源は鎌倉時代や平安時代までさかのぼります。 江戸時代後期の文禄年間になると、太鼓台の記録が残っており、当時は太鼓台ではなく神輿太鼓と記載されています。 四国三大祭として知られる愛媛の新居浜太鼓祭りの魅力 愛媛県新居浜市の新居浜太鼓祭りの魅力は、太鼓台ごとに競い合う「かきくらべ」にあります。 重さ3トンもある太鼓台を必死で持ち上げて競う姿は大迫力。 太鼓台を高く担ぎ上げる「さしあげ」や、神輿を地面に降ろさずにどれくらい耐えられるかなどで競い合います。 とても白熱する祭りなので、喧嘩（鉢合わせ）が起こることもあり、それを楽しみに見物にくる観光客もいるそう。 とにかく熱く、男らしさが魅力の愛媛県新居浜市の新居浜太鼓祭りは一見の価値あり。 四国三大祭として知られる愛媛の新居浜太鼓祭り紹介まとめ エネルギッシュでパワーをもらえる日本の新居浜太鼓祭り。 興味をもった方はぜひ動画をご覧ください！

Video introduction to the Shimonoseki Straits Festival "Genpei Festival This video, titled "The Official Video of the Genpei Festival - Shimonoseki Straits Festival" )【公式】しものせき海峡まつり　源平まつり), was released by the city of Shimonoseki. The 4-minute video introduces highlights of the 2017 Genpei Matsuri ritual and other events, set to a solemn tune. What is the Shimonoseki Straits Festival "Genpei Festival"? What are the dates of the festival? Located at the westernmost tip of the Main Island, Shimonoseki in Yamaguchi Prefecture features a historical site where the famous sea battle "Dan-no-ura" occurred in 1185. At the Shimonoseki Straits Festival, annually scheduled from May 2nd-4th, performers with authentic clothing produce a surreal sight, as if the illustrations from the ancient scrolls are coming to life before our very eyes. The highlight of the festival is "Genpei Festival" on May 3 held at Kanmon Straits where the famous sea battle occurred. The warriors' parade, the reenactment of the sea battle of Dan-no-ura, and the archery battle between the warring clans (one scene from Studio Ghibli's Pompoko explicitly references this battle), and Senteisai (loosely translated as the "former emperor festival" and is held to commemorate the child Emperor Antoku who drowned at Dan-no-ura), attract a great number of onlookers. The video leads us over to the city where performers wearing the medieval costumes fill the streets. Enjoy your journey back in time through the video! Genpei Samurai Procession, a highlight of the Genpei Festival Source :YouTube screenshot The Genpei Festival is preceded by "Senteisai", where a ritual is held to offer prayers to the shrine in order to appease the soul of Emperor Antoku's. Samurai, courtesans, and adorable child soldiers are separated into the Genji and Heike clans and parade throughout the city. From 0:09, the video allows us a glance at the elaborate preparation process that turns the performers into historical characters, and at 1:26the parade begins. The parade depicts the two warring clans marching to the battlefield. The vigorous war cries of the warring clans captivate onlookers. Genpei Boat Battle, a highlight of the Genpei Festival Source :YouTube screenshot From 1:37 is the majestic reenactment of the climatic sea battle. The presence of historical characters such as the legendary monk warrior Benkei, the heroin Shizuka Gozen, and the child Emperor Antoku on the boats portraying the scene, energizes the event. The spectacular reenactment, with a fleet of about 200 ships sailed out on the wild waves, will definitely look great on Instagram. A series of events associated with the Genpei war take place on the main stage and the dance of the 5 gorgeous courtesans closes the performance. The main stage performances are introduced from 3:00. Festival performers are chosen from the public submissions. Summary of the Shimonoseki Straits and Genpei Festivals The video guides us through the Shimonoseki Straits Festival where one can experience one of Japan's most historically significant events. Enjoy time traveling back to the 12th century with this video! The main venues at the Genpei Festival are the Akama Shrine and Shimaitoshi Square. Transportation is blocked at some parts of the city during the festival, so we recommend checking the event schedule in advance if you're planning on using it.